WO2014197674A1

WO2014197674A1 - A method, system and apparatus for communicating media signals to a system user

Info

Publication number: WO2014197674A1
Application number: PCT/US2014/041050
Authority: WO
Inventors: James Filicette; Adam Kidron
Original assignee: Gee Beyond Holdings, Llc
Priority date: 2013-06-05
Filing date: 2014-06-05
Publication date: 2014-12-11

Abstract

The invention is an internet-based system, method of use, and headphones for downloading and distributing media signals to pair of headphones. A client application allows management of the system and selection of media content from a catalog. Media content comprising music files; audio clips; and, metadata is parsed at the headphones and directed to user outputs integrated with the headphones. The headphones comprise: a headband; earpieces; and, a hinge assembly allowing the earpiece to be rotated outward from the headband. This allows the headphones to be used as a surface mounted system when not user mounted. Additionally, there are switches for function selection; a set of inward facing speakers mounted on the earpieces, a set of outward facing speakers; display means for displaying visual output; and, access to the client application. An additional feature is a set of one or more lights with selectable color and pulsing pattern.

Description

A METHOD, SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR

COMMUNICATING MEDIA SIGNALS TO A SYSTEM USER

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This Application is based on U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/831,288 filed June 5, 2013, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. FIGURE FOR PUBLICATION

FIG. 3.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a method and system for listening to audio and via headphones. More specifically, the present invention relates to a method, system and apparatus for enjoying the benefits of headphone use, while also being able to share music and other audio content both via audio means and visual means. A locking hinge, or other detecting switch, enables the speakers to be flipped up or face the listener while headphones are placed on a surface, thus converting a traditional headset into a desktop audio delivery system. 2. Description of the Related Art

Headphones have a long history with respect to use in music appreciation, or in the learning environment to allow concentration on certain subject matter. Headphones that utilized headbands gave way to use of earbuds, clip-on devices, and devices supported by bands or straps that rested at the back of the head.

Innovative change often comes from unexpected sources, because the ability to solve a problem, in a clear concise manner, does not necessarily lend itself to a stereotypical image. This was certainly true with the early development of the amplified sound headphone by Nathaniel Baldwin in 1910. Ultimately, Mr. Baldwin sold his headphones to the U.S. Navy which, in turn, was on the cusp of developing radio and acoustic listening facilities, both on-board ship and with landed operations.

The early headphones were thus developed to serve a functional need by listening to audio signals generated in a broad setting. However, as the ability to play or broadcast music advanced, the personal experience offered by headphones, and the opportunity to deliver sound directly to the ear of the listener, provided a platform for enhancements in audio quality and delivery. Thus, the historical social purpose of music had shifted to include both a private medium ("headphones") and the intensely social medium of shared music. Headphones continued to enjoy technological improvement and social development as well. Early headphones which utilized moving iron transducers to convey audio tones to the headphone user were prone to creating shocks for the user; these gave way to plastic cones. Dynamic headphones were introduced in the 1930s; and, the first stereo headphones were developed in the 1950s. But, from a social perspective, headphones from 1960s on through the 1990s, began to change based more on the marketing and packaging of the headphones, than on the technological improvements to audio delivery. Wireless technology, however, began to shift the social and technological aspects of headphone use.

Listening to music with conventional headphones (as represented by the prior art) results in the isolation of the user, creating a generally "anti-social" behavior. Additionally, conventional headphones do not share information with the user as they are using their devices. Conventional headphones typically will only accept sound or music transferred from another connected device like a smartphone, tablet, computer or other mobile computing device via wired or wireless connections. With the advent of wireless methodologies, computing devices are capable of sharing detailed information over the wired or wireless connection.

Conventional headphones do not have methods or designs to share graphical, textual, or images via On-Board-Displays mounted on the headband or in the ear piece. Further, prior art headphones do not provide the peripheral entertainment or social display occasioned by pulsating-lights built into the headphones that provide pulsed lighting synchronized to music or audio being played on the headphones. Headphones that are known in the art, in addition to not providing the advantages that comes with On-Board Displays and pulsed lighting action, do not have methods or designs that include a hinge lock mechanism that enables the ear piece to flip up or towards the user when sitting on a flat surface.

Thus, what is not appreciated by the prior art is that the use of conventional headphones created a generally "anti-social" behavior; and, there was no effective means in the art for easily and quickly shifting from the privacy of headphone use to the more social experience of having the headphones act as a tabletop audio delivery system.

Accordingly, there is a need for an improved system which will allow a system user to be able to determine if their headphones will share certain information with other parties through use of displays to show metadata content or other visual or graphic content, and/or the use of shared audio through an efficient means of converting a pair of headphones into a desktop speaker system.

ASPECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An aspect of the present invention is to provide a system for greater enjoyment and management of the media that can be transmitted to and received by a unique pair of headphones.

Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a pair of headphones that allow the user to receive video and graphic data, in addition to audio output. Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a pair of headphones that allow the earpieces to be rotated outward so that the headphones can be used as a surface mounted or desktop media center, The present invention relates to an internet-based system, method of use, and headphones for downloading and distributing media signals to pair of headphones. A client application allows management of the system and selection of media content from a catalog. Media content comprising music files; audio clips; and, metadata is parsed at the headphones and directed to user outputs integrated with the headphones. The headphones comprise: a headband; earpieces; and, a hinge assembly allowing the earpiece to be rotated outward from the headband. This allows the headphones to be used as a surface mounted system when not user mounted. Additionally, there are switches for function selection; a set of inward facing speakers mounted on the earpieces, a set of outward facing speakers; display means for displaying visual output; and, access to the client application. An additional feature is a set of one or more lights with selectable color and pulsing pattern.

According to an embodiment of the present invention there is provided an internet-based system for downloading and distributing media signals to one or more nodes for the personal enjoyment of a node or system user, or for a group audience, depending upon how certain output devices are utilized at the node.

The invention comprises a method, system and apparatus for the output of the media signals. The method relates to the steps for communicating a plurality of media data packets within an internet-based data handling system or media center (hereinafter the "media center"). The steps begin with initiation of a client application resident at data handling system and for allowing management of media content. The media content can be selected from a content catalog resident at the data handling system. The client application further allows for the system user to direct the client application to download a signal, wherein the signal is indicative of instructions for selecting the media content and further comprising the actual media content.

The signal constructed and compiled by the media center is transmitted via wireless or hard-wired signal to a receiver embodied within a unique pair of headphones; these will be described in more detail in conjunction with the summary of the apparatus of the invention. The media signal is received at the headphones and parsed so as to separate media content by type: audio, video, metadata depiction, etc. It will be recognized that the types of audio, video, metadata depiction, etc. in any form are not limited to those currently known in the industry but will also include those anticipated to be developed in the future as computer programming, data transfer, and other related technologies develop. It will be understood that the phrase 'audio, video, and metadata' is to be interpreted broadly and without limitation to the instant standards. The headphone controller routines direct the media specific signals to one or more user interfaces, wherein each one of the one or more user interfaces corresponds to a particular media content type. The client application can be resident at either the media center or at the headphones, or both. If located only at the media center, then a shortcut routine is located and accessible at the headphones so that the user of the headphones can link to the client application. The shortcut routine will access the client application via transmission means for communicating a signal for transmitting data from the client application to the headphones as a user interface means for receiving one or more types of media content. This will allow a system user to interact with the client application to allow the system user to manage media content.

The media content is comprised of one or more media types from the group further comprising: music files (i.e., song tracks); audio clips; and, metadata, wherein the metadata comprises one or more data types such as images and/or text. Among other things, the text can be associated with artists, albums, and/or tracks available from a catalog.

The apparatus for use by the system user for output of the media signals is embodied within a pair of headphones. The headphones provide a user interface for each of one or more types of media content. The media content, in turn, being supplied to the headphones by a signal originating from the media center.

The headphones comprise a headband; the headband having a first end and a second end, a front side and a back side and a bottom side and a top side. At the first end of the headband there is mounted a hinge assembly which is used to attach an earpiece to that end of the headband. The hinge assembly further comprises a locking switch, which when in the unlocked position allows the earpiece to be rotated outward from the headband. A second earpiece is mounted on the opposite end of the headband, and it too may be connected by a hinge assembly. The outward rotation of the earpiece allows the headphones to be used as a tabletop or surface mounted system when not on the head of the user.

The headphones further comprise a plurality of switches for enabling or disabling a set of functions related to each one of the plurality of switches. The switches include a push button switch mounted on the first earpiece and which allow the user to select among a set of choices which include: a set of inward facing speakers mounted on each of the earpieces; a set of outward facing speakers; the outward facing speakers mounted on at least one of the earpieces; one or more display means for displaying visual output; and, access to the client application. An additional feature is a set of one or more lights, wherein the lights are responsive to a pre-determined instruction indicative of a selection made by the user and selected from the client application. The lights can be in the form of one or more light emitting diodes (LED). The headphones include a first circuit for allowing the user to select, via the client application, an emission color for each one of the plurality of lights. Additionally, the headphones comprise a second circuit for allowing the user to select a lighting pattern from the group including: a continuous glow; a fast pulse; a slow pulse; and, a pulse which corresponds to the frequency level of an audio signal that is played through the headphones. The display means of the headphones display a visual output which is mounted or embedded on the top side of the headband. Optionally, a second display means can be mounted on one of the earpieces. The headphones further comprise a proximity switch, which further comprises a proximity sensor for detecting nearby objects. The proximity switch causes the outward facing speakers to be activated so as to receive an audio signal when the headphones are removed from the head of the user. Conversely, the proximity switch causes the inward facing speakers to be activated so as to receive an audio signal when the headphones are placed upon the head of the user.

The method of the invention is enabled by the underlying system which includes the media center, transmission means for communicating the media signal to an end-user node, the client application, and the headphones which comprise the node.

The above, and other aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals designate the same elements.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an upper level diagram of the system of the present invention showing the host processing center and four exemplary nodes for receiving media signals at individual headphones. FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the host processing center that further details various components of the center.

FIG. 3 is an upper level flowchart of the method of the present invention.

FIG. 4A is a side view of the headphones that embody the media signal receiving apparatus of the present invention and having a push-button switch mounted on the outward facing side of the earpiece.

FIG. 4B is a side view of the headphones that embody the media signal receiving apparatus of the present invention and having a display, for displaying media content, mounted on the outward facing side of the earpiece.

FIG. 5 is a front facing perspective view of the headphones of the present invention and showing data being displayed on the headband mounted display.

FIG. 6 is a depiction of a top down view of the headphones of the present invention and showing data being displayed on the headband mounted display and a graphic being displayed on an earpiece mounted display and a push button switch mounted on the opposing earpiece.

FIG. 7A is a depiction of a top down view of the headphones of the present invention and showing data being displayed on the headband mounted display.

FIG. 7B is a depiction of a top down view of the headphones of FIG. 7 A wherein hinge locks located on each respective hinge assembly which link the individual earpieces to the headband having been activated so as to allow the earpiece to rotate outward to allow the external speakers to be utilized.

FIG. 8A is a depiction of a side view of the headphones and showing the hinge lock mechanism in a locked state.

FIG. 8B is a depiction of a side view of the headphones and showing the hinge lock mechanism in an unlocked state. FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the method for activating and selecting the pulse rate for a set of lights mounted on the headphones.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of the method for selecting the displays mounted on the headphones for the display of metadata, graphic content, or video.

FIG. 11 is a graphic of the screen shot of the user interface for the client application.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Reference will now be made in detail to several embodiments of the invention that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same or similar reference numerals are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts or steps. The drawings are in simplified form and are not to precise scale. For purposes of convenience and clarity only, directional terms, such as top, bottom, up, down, over, above, and below may be used with respect to the drawings. These and similar directional terms should not be construed to limit the scope of the invention in any manner. The words "connect," "couple," and similar terms with their inflectional morphemes do not necessarily denote direct and immediate connections, but also include connections through mediate elements or devices.

FIG. 1 is an upper level diagram of an embodiment of the system of the present invention showing the host data processing center (or "media center") 10 and exemplary nodes 30. It is contemplated that the host data processing center 10 is not limited to the present embodiment; but, rather can be expanded to include: additional peripheral data storage sources, linkages to cloud content; firewalls located at or surrounding the data processing center; and/or, static content and digital rights management ("DRM") servers. An exemplary system of that which can be embodied as the content server system (or "media center") in the present invention, is U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/720,740 (Publication No. 2013/0297467) which is incorporated herein by reference.

The host data processing center, or media center 10 has a central processing unit server 12 interoperatively linked to: a monitor 14; a keyboard 16; a media library 18; and, a mouse 20. Additionally, the media center is linked with a database server 22. It is understood that the listed peripherals could be removed and/or additional peripheral devices could be included with the media center 10 as system or local needs require. Additionally, the media library 18 could be available through a cloud connection, an integrated data storage device, or combinations of both.

The media center 10 is linked 50 to one or more remote nodes; the nodes being individual pairs of headphones. It is contemplated that a remote node could be co-located with the media center 10 if local needs require. The linkage 50 can be through wireless or hardwire means or a combination of both as network needs dictate. Wireless connections can be via Bluetooth, WiFi (802.11), or other wireless radio transmission, either secure or unsecured. In an embodiment of the present invention, wired connections can use a 2 wire connection that connects to the interface device via a 3.5mm headset plug, though it should be noted that this is merely exemplary of the plurality of available embodiments. In an embodiment of the present invention, a mobile or wireless connection between the user and the media center can be established through the headphones by utilizing the On-Board electronics resident in the headband to support the initialization and link. Embodiments of the invention can support various methods for connectivity, both cellular and non-cellular. These methods include, but are not limited to, secure wireless to the media center that is internet connected, and secure wireless direct to a wireless carrier network that is connected to the internet. Additionally, the system user can establish a secure wireless connection to the internet by connecting the headphones to an internet access point, such as a wireless router, wireless access point, or modem. The wireless connection protocol can be one of several different formats that include, but are not limited to: WiFi; NFC; Bluetooth; and, WiDi. Further, the system user can establish a secure wireless cellular connection directly to the internet from the headphones to the content server of the media center. Cellular systems that can support this ability include, but are not limited to: GSM; CDMA; WCDMA; and, LTE.

An embodiment of the present invention that includes a mobile or wireless capability would include the embedded wireless processor, use of the headband display, and related memory capability. Unlocking of the access for the system user, and establishing the mobile connectivity is accomplished by the user inserting a subscriber identification module (or "SIM") card into the dedicated SIM slot of the headphones. The SIM slot is located in the headband of the headphones. SIM cards are known in the art and can be transferred from one device to another. The SIM card contains one or more unique identifying serial numbers, and other identifying data that can be used as a "key" to "open" the device for use upon authentication.

The media center and individual nodes 30 can be part of a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), or as part of an internet or intranet network. Each of the nodes will generally have a pair of headphones 30 comprising: a headband with integrated display 32; an earpiece display 34 mounted in at least one of the earpieces of the headphone; an embedded client application 36; a proximity switch 38 for determining whether or not the headphones are mounted on the head of a user; a pushbutton switch 40 mounted on one of the earpieces and used for selecting among different functions available to the user; and, a hinge switch 42 for allowing the earpieces to be rotated outward to activate outward facing speakers mounted in the earpiece. It is understood that the listed peripherals could be removed and/or additional peripheral devices could be included with the remote node as system or local needs require. When establishing a wireless connection, the user would enable the wireless connection feature on the headphones 30 by pressing the push button switch 40 or via a setting on the user interface (see FIG. 1 1) of the client application. FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the media center 10 having a CPU 60. The

CPU 60 is interoperatively connected to: a client application 62 which allows the system user to manage the features of the headphone, the selection of media, and the establishment of client preferences; at least one memory 64; a monitor 66 for viewing the various selections available to the user; a co-located remote node 68, a telecomm interface 70 for linking with remote nodes either through a hardwire or wireless communications means; and, a data input peripheral 72 such as a mouse or scanner. The user interface to the client application 62 can be seen in the screen shot shown in FIG. 11.

The media center 10 further comprises a data management routine for directing data to subfolders for the creation of individual user profiles to enhance the user experience through creation of user-specific libraries, control settings, and search criteria.

Turning then to FIG. 3, there is shown an upper level flowchart of the method of the present invention.

The method begins with initiation at step 100 that is brought about by the transmission of a media call signal from the media center to the remote node embodied by the headphones. From step 100, the method advances to step 102 where the headphones are made active for the incoming media call.

With the headphones active, the headphones will be looking at for a determination as to whether or not to activate the inward facing speakers or the outward facing speakers mounted on each earpiece of the headphones. Inward facing are those speakers configured to face the ear of the user, whereas the outward facing speakers are those facing away from the user's ear. Thus, the flow moves from step 102 to the query at step 104 which asks if the inboard speakers will be activated. If the response to the query is "YES", then the user performs a short press at step 106 of the pushbutton switch mounted on one of the earpieces and the method advances to step 108. If the response to the query at step 104 is "NO", then the user performs a long press at step 116 of the pushbutton switch mounted on the earpiece and the method advances to the query at step 118.

Returning to step 108, pressing of the pushbutton switch will cause the media call to be answered or ended as the case may be. From step 108, the method flow advances to step 110 where the audio signal is routed to the internal or inward facing speakers. If the user desires to change the speakers from inward to outward facing (so as to set the headphones up as a desktop or table top system), then the flow advances to step 116; otherwise, with the inward facing speakers activated, after the media call has been completed, the flow advances to the query at step 114 which asks if the call has ended. If the response to the query is "YES", then the media call is ended and the method flow ends. If, however, the response to the query at step 114 is "NO", then the method follows path A to reenter the method flow at step 100.

Returning to the query at step 1 18, the method queries as to whether or not the hinge lock switch is being detected in the "ON" or the "OFF" position. The hinge lock switches are mounted on the hinges which link the individual earpieces to their respective ends of the headband. If the response to the query is "ON" or "YES", then the flow moves next to the output from the proximity sensor/switch mounted on the inward facing portion of the headband. If in the hinge lock is "ON" then the sensor will detect the presence of user's head at step 120 and the audio signal will be directed to the internal or inward facing speakers. When the desired audio feed is finished, the user can press the push button switch with a short press at step 132 or a long press at step 124. A short press will bring the method flow back to step 114. The long press will bring the flow back to step 122. If the response to the query at step 118 was "OFF" or "YES", then the user head is not detected by the proximity sensor/switch at step 126 and the audio signal is routed to the external or outward facing speakers at step 128. When the desired audio feed is finished, the user can press the push button switch with a short press at step 132 or a long press at step 130. A short press will bring the method flow back to step 114. The long press will bring the advance the flow along path B back to step 116. In describing the headphones in more detail, we turn to FIGs. 4A and 4B.

In FIG. 4A, there is shown a side view of the headphones 150 that embody the media signal receiving apparatus of the present invention. The headband of the headphones 150 is shown with display 151 embedded therein. An embodiment of the display can be LED. The headband has a hinged mechanism 153 at the corresponding end of the headband. The locking mechanism 153 supports the earpiece with external facing speaker 157 and the pushbutton switch 155. The earpiece has lights 159 embedded in its peripheral edge to support the pulsating light effect of the headphones 150. Turning to FIG. 4B, there is shown the side view of the headphones 160 opposite that of the view seen in FIG. 4A. The view embodies the media signal receiving apparatus of the present invention. The headband of the headphones 160 is shown with display 161 embedded therein. An embodiment of the display can be LED. The headband has a hinged mechanism 163 at a corresponding end of the headband (opposite that of hinged mechanism 153. The locking mechanism 163 supports the earpiece with external facing speaker 167 and the earpiece display 165. The earpiece has lights 169 embedded in its peripheral edge to support the pulsating light effect of the headphones 150.

In FIG. 5, there is shown a front facing perspective view of the headphones 175 of the present invention and showing data being displayed on the headband mounted display 177. The display 177 is an onboard LED display that can display metadata, graphics or video associated with a particular audio file. Examples of the file formats that can be utilized to display graphics, pictures or data include, but are not limited to: JPEG (.jpg); GIF (.gif); PNG (.png); and BMP (.bmp). Video data can be decoded utilizing, but not limited to, file formats 3GPP (.3gp) or MPEG-4 (.mp4). Hinged joint 179 allows the external or outward facing speaker to be rotated up for producing audio output as a desktop or surface mounted system. Earpiece padding 183 and 185 surround the inward facing speakers, while providing comfort to the ear of the user. LEDs mounted in the earpiece (as shown at 181), or in any location on the headband, can be selectively set through the client application to emit a pre-selected color for each one of the LEDs. Additionally, the system user can select, via the client application, a pulse pattern for the lights, wherein the pattern can be selected from a group of choices, which include: a continuous glow; a fast pulse; a slow pulse; and, a pulse which corresponds to the frequency level of an audio signal that is playing. Examples of audio formats that can be utilized include, but are not limited to: 3 GPP (.3gp); MP3 (.mp3); and, AAC (.aac).

Turning to FIG. 6, there is shown a depiction of a top down view of the headphones 190 of the present invention and showing data being displayed on the headband 194 mounted display 192 and a graphic being displayed on an earpiece mounted display 200. Hinge mechanisms 196 and 198 with locking releases or switches (not shown) allow the outward facing speakers to be rotated outward or locked inward so that the headphones 190 can be configured for wearing on the head of the user.

FIGs. 7A and 7B illustrate the effect of the rotation of the earpieces. FIG. 7 A is a depiction of a top down view of the headphones 210 of the present invention and showing data being displayed on the headband mounted display 212. Hinge mechanisms 216 and 218 which support the earpieces, which, in turn, support the outward facing speakers 214 and 220 can unlocked and rotated in accordance with FIG. 7B where there is show a depiction of a top down view of the headphones 210 of FIG. 7 A wherein hinge locks 222 and 224 located on each respective hinge assembly which link the individual earpieces to the headband, having been activated so as to allow the earpiece to rotate outward to allow the external speakers to be utilized.

The hinge lock mechanism is illustrated in FIG. 8A which is a depiction of a side view of the headphones 230 and showing the hinge lock mechanism 232 in a locked state. FIG. 8B is a depiction of a side view of the headphones 230 and showing the hinge lock mechanism 234 in an unlocked state.

Turning then to FIG. 9, there is shown a flowchart of the method for activating and selecting the pulse rate for a set of lights mounted on the headphones. The flow begins at step 250 wherein the lighting selection flow is initiated though the client application. From step 250, the method flow advances to the query at step 252 which asks if the light switch of the headphones is set in the "ON" or "OFF" position. If the response to the query is "ON", then the method advances to step 254 to confirm the "ON' state before advancing to step 256 where the system user selects the required mode from a group of choices, which include: a continuous glow; a fast pulse; a slow pulse; and, a pulse which corresponds to the frequency level of an audio signal that is playing. After selecting the desired mode, the flow advances to step 258 where the lighting follows the mode selected until turned off at step 262. If the response to the query at step 252 is "OFF" then the flow confirms the "OFF" state of the switch before advancing to the closing step 262.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of the method for selecting the displays mounted on the headphones for the display of metadata, graphic content, or video. The method flow begins with the enablement of each of the available displays at step 300.

With the displays enabled, the method advances to step 302 where the system confirms provision of "Active" content which includes: music; audio; video; and, phone call'media signals. From step 302, the method advances to step 304 where the system user selects the information mode ("BASIC" or "INACTIVE") from the client application. The system verifies the selection through the query at step 306 which asks whether "BASIC" has been chosen. If the response to the query is "YES", then the flow advances to step 308 where the BASIC parameters allow the display to display the metadata content (artist; song; track; album; playback; etc.). From step 308, the flow advances to step 312 where the information mode for the system is revised in accordance with the display preferences. Returning to the query at step 306, if the response is "NO", then the flow advances to step 310 where the INTERACTIVE mode is applied which enables user control modes with respect to content selection for the displays. From step 310, the flow advances to step 312 where the information mode for the system is revised in accordance with the display preferences.

FIG. 11 is a graphic of the screen shot of the user interface 400 for the client application. There is shown content selection, based upon availability from the media center, together with the ability to select from among varying categories of multimedia files.

In the claims, means or step-plus-function clauses are intended to cover the structures described or suggested herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures. Thus, for example, although a nail, a screw, and a bolt may not be structural equivalents in that a nail relies on friction between a wooden part and a cylindrical surface, a screw's helical surface positively engages the wooden part, and a bolt's head and nut compress opposite sides of a wooden part, in the environment of fastening wooden parts, a nail, a screw, and a bolt may be readily understood by those skilled in the art as equivalent structures.

Having described at least one of the preferred embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to those precise embodiments, and that various changes, modifications, and adaptations may be effected therein by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

(1) A method of communicating a plurality of media data packets within an internet-based data handling system, said method comprising the steps of:

(a) initiating a client application, said client application resident at said data handling system and for allowing management of media content, said media content available from a catalog resident at said data handling system;

(b) directing said client application to download a signal, said signal indicative of instructions for selecting media content and further comprising said media content;

(c) receiving said signal at a pair of headphones;

(d) parsing said signal at said headphones so as to separate media content by type; and

(e) directing separated media content to one or more user interfaces, wherein each one of said one or more user interfaces corresponds to a media content type.

(2) The method of Claim 1, wherein said signal is transmitted via wired means for transmitting data from said data processing node to said pair of headphones.

(3) The method of Claim 1, wherein said signal is transmitted via wireless means for transmitting data from said data processing node to said pair of headphones.

(4) The method of Claim 1 , wherein said initiation step further comprises the steps of: (a) accessing a shortcut routine, said shortcut routine for communicating with said client application and accessible from said pair of headphones;

(b) requesting, via said shortcut routine, access to said client application via transmission means, said transmission means for communicating a signal for transmitting data from said client application to said pair of headphones as a user interface means for receiving one or more types of media content; and

(c) interfacing a system user with said client application so as to allow said system user to manage said media content, said media content being transmitted to said pair of headphones;

(5) The method of Claim 4, wherein said media content is comprised of one or more media types from the group further comprising:

(a) music files, said music files comprising song tracks;

(b) audio clips; and

(c) metadata, said metadata comprising one or more data types from the group further comprising:

(i) images; and

(ii) text; said text associated with artists, albums, and/or tracks available from a catalog.

(6) An apparatus for providing a user interface for each of one or more types of media content, said media content being supplied to said apparatus by an internet-based data handling system, said apparatus comprising a pair of headphones, said headphones further comprising: (a) a headband, said headband having a first end and a second end, a front side and a back side and a bottom side and a top side;

(b) a first hinge assembly mounted on said first end of said headband;

(c) a first earpiece mounted on said first hinge assembly;

(d) a second earpiece mounted on said second headband end; and

(e) a plurality of switches, said plurality of switches for enabling or disabling a set of functions related to each one of said plurality of switches.

(7) The apparatus of Claim 6, said apparatus further comprising a set of one or more lights, said set of one or more lights responsive to a pre-determined instruction indicative of a selection made by an apparatus user and selected from a client application accessible by said apparatus at said headphones.

(8) The apparatus of Claim 6, wherein said plurality of switches further comprise a push button switch mounted on said first earpiece, said push button switch for allowing an apparatus user to select among a set of choices.

(9) The apparatus of Claim 8, wherein each one of said set of choices is selected from the group comprising:

(a) a set of inward facing speakers, said inward facing speakers mounted on said first earpiece and said second earpiece;

(b) a set of outward facing speakers, said outward facing speakers mounted on at least one of said first earpiece and said second earpiece;

(c) a first display means for displaying visual output;

(d) a second display means for displaying visual output; and

(e) access to said client application.

(10) The apparatus of Claim 6, wherein a second hinge assembly is mounted on said second end of said headband and said second earpiece is mounted to said second hinge assembly.

(1 1) The apparatus of Claim 8, wherein said headphones comprise a hinge lock switch, said hinge lock switch for enabling an apparatus user to rotate at least one of said first and said second earpieces to a forward facing position; and, wherein said forward facing position would allow said user to utilize said headphones as a surface mounted speaker system.

(12) The apparatus of Claim 8, wherein said headphones comprise a proximity switch, said proximity switch further comprising a proximity sensor, wherein said proximity switch is capable of detecting nearby objects.

(13) The apparatus of Claim 12, wherein said proximity switch causes said outward facing speakers to be activated so as to receive an audio signal when said headphones are removed from the head of said apparatus user.

(14) The apparatus of Claim 12, wherein said proximity switch- causes said inward facing speakers to be activated so as to receive an audio signal when said headphones are placed upon the head of said apparatus user.

(15) The apparatus of Claim 9, wherein said first display means for displaying visual output is mounted on a top side of said headband.

(16) The apparatus of Claim 7, wherein said first display means for displaying visual output is mounted on a one of said first earpiece or said second earpiece.

(17) The apparatus of Claim 7, wherein said first display means for displaying visual output is mounted on a top side of said headband; and, said second display means for displaying visual output is mounted on a one of said first earpiece or said second earpiece.

(18) The apparatus of Claim 7, wherein each one of said plurality of lights is a light emitting diode (LED).

(19) The apparatus of Claim 7, wherein said headphones comprise a first circuit, said first circuit for allowing said apparatus user to select, via said client application, an emission color for each one of said plurality of lights.

(20) The apparatus of Claim 7, wherein said headphones comprise a second circuit, said second circuit for allowing said apparatus user to select, via said client application, a lighting pattern for said plurality of lights; wherein said lighting pattern further comprises a selection made from a group of choices, said group of choices further comprising:

(a) a continuous glow;

(b) a fast pulse;

(c) a slow pulse; and

(d) a pulse which corresponds to the frequency level of an audio signal that is played through said apparatus.

(21) A method of communicating a plurality of media signals within an internet-based media signal processing system, said method comprising the steps of:

(a) receiving a call signal, at a signal receiving apparatus from a media signal processing center, said signal indicative of an available signal stream;

(b) activating a switch, at said signal receiving apparatus, so as to allow said call signal to be answered;

(c) parsing said signal stream, at said signal receiving apparatus, so as to separate said signal stream into one or more component signals;

(d) directing each one of said one or more component signals to a corresponding output device, wherein said corresponding output device is integrated with said signal receiving apparatus.

(22) The method of Claim 21, wherein said signal receiving apparatus is a pair of headphones, said headphones comprising a headband, a first earpiece mounted on one end of said headband, and a second earpiece mounted on an opposite end of said headband.

(23) The method of Claim 22, wherein said corresponding output device associated with a graphic signal is a display mounted in at least one of said headband or said first or second earpiece of said headphones.

(24) The method of Claim 21, further comprising the step of selecting from a menu of options, by a system user, the pulse rate of one or more lights mounted in said signal receiving apparatus.

(25) The method of Claim 22, further comprising the steps of: (a) activating by a system user, a hinge locking mechanism located along a hinge attaching said first earpiece to said headband of said headphones; wherein said first earpiece comprises an inward facing speaker and an outward facing speaker; and

(b) selecting, via a switch, said outward facing speaker as an output device for a corresponding audio signal.

(26) A system for communicating a plurality of media signals from a media signal handling system to a pair of headphones for outputting each one of said plurality of media signals via a corresponding plurality of output means for outputting said each one of said plurality of signals, said system comprising:

(a) an internet-based media signal handling system; and

(b) communication means for communicating a multi-media signal from said internet-based media signal handling system to said pair of headphones; and

(c) said headphones for providing a user interface for said each one of said plurality of signals, said media content being supplied to said apparatus; wherein said headphones further comprise:

(i) a headband, said headband having a first end and a second end, a front side and a back side and a bottom side and a top side;

(ii) a first hinge assembly mounted on said first end of said headband;

(iii) a first earpiece mounted on said first hinge assembly;

(iv) a second earpiece mounted on said second headband end; (v) a plurality of switches, said plurality of switches for enabling or disabling a set of functions related to each one of said plurality of switches;

(vi) a set of one or more lights; and

(vii) access to a client application, said client application for allowing a user to select system set-up parameters.

(27) The system of Claim 26, said set of one or more lights, and responsive to a pre-determined instruction indicative of a selection made by a system user and selected from said client application.

(28) The system of Claim 26, wherein said plurality of switches further comprise a push button switch mounted on said first earpiece, said push button switch for allowing said system user to select among a set of choices.

(29) The system of Claim 28, wherein each one of said set of choices is selected from the group comprising:

(c) a first display means for displaying visual output;

(d) a second display means for displaying visual output; and

(e) means for mobile connectivity for establishing a wireless link between said headphones and said media signal handling system.

(30) The system of Claim 29, wherein said first display means for displaying visual output is mounted on a top side of said headband.

(31) The system of Claim 29, wherein said first display means for displaying visual output is mounted on a one of said first earpiece or said second earpiece.

(32) The system of Claim 29, wherein said first display means for displaying visual output is mounted on a top side of said headband; and, said second display means for displaying visual output is mounted on a one of said first earpiece or said second earpiece.

(33) The system of Claim 29, wherein each one of said set of one or more lights is a light emitting diode (LED).

(34) The system of Claim 26, wherein said headphones comprise a first circuit, said first circuit for allowing said system user to select, via said client application, an emission color for each one of said plurality of lights.

(35) The system of Claim 26, wherein said headphones comprise a second circuit, said second circuit for allowing said system user to select, via said client application, a lighting pattern for said plurality of lights; wherein said lighting pattern further comprises a selection made from a group of choices, said group of choices further comprising:

(a) a continuous glow;

(b) a fast pulse;

(c) a slow pulse; and (d) a pulse which corresponds to the frequency level of an audio signal that is played through said headphones.