WO2016092246A1

WO2016092246A1 - Visitor information apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2016092246A1
Application number: PCT/GB2014/053687
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mohammed Yusuf DERIA; Ahmed Mohamed MOHAMOUD
Original assignee: Tag Team (World) Malta Limited
Priority date: 2014-12-12
Filing date: 2014-12-12
Publication date: 2016-06-16

Abstract

A language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus (100) comprising a location determining element (130), programmable memory element (138) for storage of a spoken language of a user, an instructional element (152), and demarcation means (144) for defining both a boundary and a buffer zone. The language-programmable visitor- path boundary-notification apparatus (100) outputting a first instructional signal, based on the language of the user, if the user of the language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus (100) strays into or near the buffer zone, and a second instructional signal if the user strays over or near to the boundary.

Description

Visitor Information Apparatus

The present invention relates to apparatus for providing a visitor with information, more specifically apparatus for providing a visitor with boundary notifications, and a device for providing instructions to a visitor upon reaching their destination. Visitors to attractions, be they pilgrims, event-goers, or tourists, are parts of life in many areas of the world. Whether carrying out religious duties, attending events, or simply going on holiday, visitors provide monetary income to economies, which allow them to function and thrive.

However, whilst visitors are therefore useful in many aspects, they can also provide numerous challenges to security and law enforcement professionals. These challenges are particularly prevalent in countries and jurisdictions whereby a visitor is in an unfamiliar area, does not know or understand the relevant local rules or customs, and more particularly where they do not share a common spoken language with the locals or security and law enforcement professionals. One example whereby difficulties thereby ensue is where visitors are required to be confined to particular locations. These locations are often discrete areas, such as the surrounds of a particular visitor attraction, such as a place of special religious or cultural significance, but can also be a path, for instance between two visitor attractions. Whilst speakers of the local language might be able to read instructing signposts or receive verbal instructions from security or law enforcement professionals, this is often not possible where there is no common tongue.

A case of particular importance is that of the Hajj pilgrimage. As the largest single gathering of people in the world, many people, of many different nationalities and speaking many different languages, take part in a series of specific activities and journeys. Every one of these people must be properly instructed so as to keep the congregation safe, whilst also allowing them to complete their pilgrimage successfully.

Additionally, boundaries between allowed and disallowed areas can be altered or moved, based on local events, or poorly signed which can lead to further difficulties for visitors.

These boundaries can be particularly troublesome for those visiting a place as a pilgrim. For instance, leaving a specific area at the wrong time can result in a particular portion of the pilgrimage becoming void and therefore requiring that portion to be repeated. This can be an annoyance to a pilgrim, but if many thousands of pilgrims are making the same mistakes then it can cause major problems to crowd flow and overcrowding.

Therefore, a solution is required to provide visitors with the prerequisite information that they need in order to enjoy their visit without issue and also prevent the occurrence of crowd troubles. Furthermore, it may be necessary for particular activities to be carried out by visitors upon arrival at a place. These activities can be simple instructions as to a particular procedure to follow, such as arriving at a visitor attraction and having your passport checked or, in the case of a pilgrim, could be a complex and specific series of activities.

Such activities are not necessarily immediately obvious to a visitor, particularly foreign visitors, and therefore instructions are required. There is often a language barrier which leads to problematic communications of the required activities to the visitor.

It is an object of the present invention to improve or substantially obviate the problems as presented above, such that information can be easily and quickly provided to visitors, when necessary, minimising the possible adverse effects on the visitor, and making the jobs of security and law enforcement professionals less problematic.

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus comprising a location determining element for determining a location of at least a part of the apparatus; a programmable memory element for storage of at least first and second different instructional data based on a predetermined spoken language of a user; an instructional output element in communication with the programmable memory element; demarcation means for defining both a predetermined boundary of a visitor path and a predetermined buffer zone at or contiguous with the boundary; and a controller for controlling the instructional output element to output at least a first and/or second instructional signal based on a location signal outputted by the location determining element relative to the defined boundary and/or the buffer zone.

Such an apparatus is able to provide necessary instructions to a user quickly, easily and, most importantly, automatically, upon them straying close to or into a restricted area, or vice versa from a restricted area dependent on the situation. This can enable the user to correct their path, allowing them to continue on their journey without any detrimental effects, such as the involvement of security or law enforcement professionals.

Preferably, the instructional output element may include a speaker, for the output of the instructional signals as verbal instructions. Outputting verbal instructions would enable hands-free use of the apparatus, and also enables the instructional signals to be heard by the blind or partially sighted.

It may be advantageous for the instructional output element to include an electronic display, for the output of the instructional signals as or in addition to text instructions. This allows the instructions to be read by a user, which is particularly useful if the user is deaf. It also allows the instructions to be displayed permanently and, if an e-ink display is utilised, with minimal power.

Beneficially, the language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus includes a portable boundary-notification device comprising at least the location determining element, programmable memory element, instructional output element, and controller. Housing these elements within the portable boundary-notification device allows the device to be carried by a user wherever they may be on the visitor-path. Therefore instructional signals can easily be received by the user.

In an optional configuration, the portable boundary-notification device may further include the demarcation means. Housing the demarcation means within the portable boundary-notification device allows the apparatus to be self-contained.

Preferably, the demarcation means may include a boundary database for the storing of boundary position data. This would allow the entire apparatus to be self-contained.

Advantageously, the location determining element may include an antenna for the receipt of satellite-transmitted location data. This allows the apparatus to be used alongside GPS, GLONASS, or another such global navigation satellite system.

Optionally, the demarcation means comprises a plurality of demarcation devices at or adjacent to the boundary and/or buffer zone. This would allow the boundary and/or buffer zone to be altered whenever necessary, without having to reprogram the apparatus and/or devices.

In one configuration, the demarcation means may include at least one electromagnetic transmitter. Additionally, the language-programmable visitor-path boundary- notification device may further include an electromagnetic receiver for receiving locating signals from the or each electromagnetic transmitter. An arrangement such as this would allow the demarcation means to be easily moved when necessary, or turned on and off easily. Additionally, the size of the buffer zone could be adjusted by altering the power, frequency, and/or amplitude of the location signals.

In another configuration, the demarcation means may include at least one passive marker and the location determining element may include a passive marker detecting means for detecting the proximity of the or each passive marker. This configuration would enable the apparatus to function without having to provide any power to the demarcation means, allowing the demarcation means to not be limited to a position with easily available power. Preferably, the portable boundary-notification device may include a user attachment means, such as a wrist-strap, lanyard, or other such means, in order to allow the device to be securely attached to the user, preventing loss.

Optionally, the portable boundary-notification device may be formed as part of a personal mobile computing device, and at least the controller may be formed as a downloadable executable computer application program. As many people already carry such personal mobile computing devices, this will prevent them having to carry an additional device.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of notifying a visitor on a visitor-path of a boundary at or adjacent thereto, the method comprising the steps of: a] determining a spoken language of a visitor; b] defining both a boundary of a visitor path and a predetermined buffer zone at, within, or adjacent to the boundary; and c] outputting in the said determined spoken language at least a first instructional signal when the visitor is at or approaches the buffer zone, and a second instructional signal which is different to the first instructional signal when the visitor is at, approaches and/or is beyond the boundary.

A method as stated above can allow a visitor to be encouraged to stay within a nominal boundary for their own safety or other such reasons. Providing instructional signals in the spoken language of the user enables the instructional signals to be more easily understood, and therefore more likely to be obeyed.

Optionally, the method may utilise the language-programmable visitor-path boundary- notification apparatus according to the first aspect of the invention.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a visitor directive device for providing activity instructions to a user comprising: a location determining element for determining the location of the visitor directive device; a plurality of activity instructions, indicative of a process to be undertaken by the user, based on a spoken language of the user; a programmable memory element for storage of said activity instructions; a controller; and an instructional output element for providing the user with said activity instructions; the controller determining by way of the location determining element that the visitor directive device has reached a predetermined destination and the instructional output element then providing said activity instructions based on an activity to be performed at the destination.

Such a device can enable activity instructions to be easily distributed to any number of users so that, on reaching their destination, the users are informed immediately or quickly of what process should be undertaken. Additionally, basing the activity instructions on the spoken language of the user ensures the activity instructions can be understood.

Preferably, the instructional output element may include a speaker, for the output of the activity instructions as verbal instructions. Thus, it is possible for the user to hear the activity instructions even when they are not looking at the visitor directive device. This would also enable the device to be utilised by blind people.

Advantageously, the instructional output element may include a display element, for the output of the activity instructions as text instructions. This can allow the display of text instructions or pictorial instructions, such as a map, which are easily understood by a user. The display element would make the device usable by a deaf user.

In a preferable configuration, the visitor directive device may further comprise a wireless transmission element for relaying information between the visitor directive device and a remote server. These transmissions could be utilised such that activity instructions can be updated remotely and transferred to the visitor directive device. Alternatively the transmissions could be utilised in a way in which data can be collected about the user for marketing or improvement services.

It would be beneficial for the programmable memory element to be configured to store activity instructions, either permanently or temporarily. In this way, the activity instructions can be outputted by the device at any time, but also be updated or replaced when necessary.

Preferably, the wireless transmission element may include a cellular radio transceiver or a Wi-Fi transceiver. Use of these two radio elements would allow wireless contact with the visitor directive device in many different situations. In an advantageous configuration, the visitor directive device may further comprise a user-wearable housing in which is provided the location determining element, programmable memory element, controller, and informational output element.

It would be preferable for visitor directive device to further comprise user attachment means, such as a wrist-strap, lanyard, or other such attachment means, attachable to the user-wearable housing, in order to securely attach the device to the user.

Optionally, the visitor directive device may be provided as part of a personal mobile computing device. In this way, the user would not have to carry around a further piece of technology, but could instead utilise a mobile phone or tablet computer, which they may already carry with them. In this configuration, it may be beneficial for at least the controller to be formed as a downloadable executable computer application program.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of providing a user with instructions at a visitor site, the method comprising the steps of: a] providing a user with a visitor directive device preferably in accordance with the third aspect of the invention; b] the visitor directive device determining when the user has reached a predetermined destination; and c] the visitor directive device providing the user with activity instructions indicative of a process to be undertaken by the user.

This method allows a user to be informed quickly and understandably as to any activity which is desired by them or expected of them. Such activity instructions prevent a user from being ignorant of the necessary process to be undertaken at any point.

Preferably, the method may further comprise the steps of: determining a spoken language of the user; and providing the activity instructions in the said spoken language. This allows the user to more easily understand the activity instructions. Provision of the activity instructions in the spoken language of the user enables the activity instructions to be more easily understood. This means that the instructions are more likely to be followed.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is a provided a visitor-path boundary- notification apparatus comprising a location determining element for determining a location of at least a part of the apparatus on a visitor path; a programmable memory element for storage of at least first and second different user-instructional data; an instructional output element in communication with the programmable memory element; demarcation means for defining both a predetermined boundary of the visitor path and a predetermined buffer zone contiguous with the boundary; and a controller for controlling the instructional output element to output at least a first and/or second instructional signal based on a location signal outputted by the location determining element relative to the defined boundary and/or the buffer zone.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of notifying a visitor on a visitor-path of a boundary at or adjacent thereto, the method comprising the steps of: a] defining both a boundary of a visitor path and a predetermined buffer zone at, within or adjacent to the boundary; and b] outputting at least a first instructional signal when the visitor is at or approaches the buffer zone, and a second instructional signal which is different to the first instructional signal when the visitor is at, approaches and/or is beyond the boundary

The invention will now be more particularly described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows a diagrammatic plan view of a first embodiment of a visitor path, boundary, and buffer zone in accordance with the invention;

Figure 2 shows a perspective representation of a first embodiment of a language- programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus, according to the first aspect of the invention;

Figure 3 shows a flow diagram of a logic sequence of the language- programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus, in accordance with the embodiment of Figure 2;

Figures 4a, 4b and 4c show diagrammatic representations of three further embodiments of a language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus, according to the first aspect of the invention;

Figure 5 shows a flow diagram of a logic sequence of the language- programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus, in accordance with the embodiments of Figures 4a-c;

Figure 6 shows a flow diagram of a logic sequence used to provide instructional signals to a user, in accordance with the second aspect of the invention;

Figure 7 shows a diagrammatic representation of a first embodiment of a visitor directive device according to the third aspect of the invention; and

Figure 8 shows a flow diagram of a logic sequence used to provide activity instructions to a user, in accordance with the fourth aspect of the invention Referring firstly to Figure 1 of the drawings, there is shown a plan view of an area or location 2 containing two visitor attractions 4, a visitor path 6, boundary 8, and buffer zone 10. The visitor path 6 includes two encircling portions 12, which encircle the two visitor attractions 4, and a joining portion 14 which conjoins the two encircling portions 12, thus creating a single visitor path 6.

Whilst the visitor path 6 here is represented as a two-dimensional line, the visitor path could also be considered to be an area or a volume, with the boundary existing around either in two-dimensions, as shown, or in three dimensions, whereby the boundary exists as a virtual 'bubble' or enclosure, for example, within a multi-level building or structure.

The boundary 8 surrounds the visitor path 6. The boundary 8 is separated from the path and, in this embodiment, completely encloses the visitor path 6 and visitor attractions 4, creating a safe zone 16, which is defined as the area within the boundary 8.

An outer portion of the safe zone 16, contiguous with the boundary 8 and extending into the safe zone 16, forms the buffer zone 10. The buffer zone 10 extends around the full extent of the boundary 8 resulting in an endless ring within the safe zone 16.

In reality, a visitor may be expected to walk along the path 6 without significant deviation therefrom. The nominal region in which the visitor should remain is defined by the boundary 8. This may be defined for reason of safety or simplicity of transportation, or even be of religious significance, for example, having to follow a predetermined or preset path during a pilgrimage.

Ideally, the visitor would stay well away from this boundary 8, staying within the safe zone 16, and not venturing into the buffer zone 10.

Figures 2 and 3 show a first embodiment of a language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus 100. The language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus 100 comprises a portable, in this case wearable, boundary-notification device 118, which includes a user-wearable housing 120, having an upper housing face 122, lower housing face 124 and four side housing faces 126 interconnecting the upper and lower housing faces 122, 124. The housing 120 is preferably formed from a plastics material so as to be lightweight and easily manufactured, but could also be formed from other materials such as aluminium, steel, or other metals, or a shock-absorbing elastomeric material.

A wrist-strap 128 extends from a first side housing face 126a to an opposing side housing face 126b, creating a loop. The wrist-strap 128 is formed, in this embodiment, from an extensible elastomeric material, such that the wrist-strap 128 can be stretched over the hand of the user and will then contract so as to grip the user's wrist.

The wrist-strap could also comprise non-extensible materials such as woven cloth, metal or rubber, and could also include a clasp or hook-and-loop fastener, where necessary, in order to allow the wrist-strap to be separated for attaching and detaching from a user.

On a third side housing face 126c is positioned a location determining element 130 which, in this embodiment, is an antenna 132. The antenna 132 allows the portable boundary-notification device to gather location data 133 from a location source 134, in this embodiment a global navigation satellite system 136, which could be GPS, , GLONASS or similar, in order to determine the location of the portable boundary- notification device 118. Although shown exteriorly of the housing 120, the antenna 132 may be provided internally.

A programmable memory element 138 is provided in this embodiment of the language- programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus by way of an SD card 140, shown inserted into an SD card receiver 142 located on the first side housing face 126a.

As shown in Figure 3, the programmable memory element 138 contains demarcation means 144, which define the boundary and buffer zone. The demarcation means 144 of this first embodiment comprises a boundary database 146, which stores the coordinates of the boundary 8 and buffer zone 10. The programmable memory element 138 is also utilised to store at least first and second instructional data based on a spoken language of the user.

The spoken language of the user can be programmed into the programmable memory element 138 at the point of sale or distribution, or can alternatively be selected from a set of pre-programmed languages. Alternatively, the spoken language could be downloaded remotely during or prior to use to an onboard integrated memory element.

The programmable memory element 138, containing the demarcation means 144 and boundary database 146, is readable by a controller 148, such as a computer processor. The controller 148 utilises the demarcation means 144 and the location data 133 from the location determining element 130 in order to determine where the portable boundary-notification device 118 is relative to the boundary 8 defined by the demarcation means 144.

Instructional signals 150 are outputted by an instructional output element 152. The instructional output element 152 of the present embodiment includes both a speaker 152a, for outputting sound-based instructional signals, such as pre-recorded or computer generated speech, and a display element 152b, such as an LCD screen, for outputting textual or pictorial instructional signals. Whilst this embodiment contains both a speaker 152a and a display element 152b, other embodiments could contain one of these instructional output elements or neither, instead including a different type of instructional output element, such as an electronic braille producer or a transmitting element for sending an instructional signal as a notification to a personal mobile computer device of the user, such as a mobile phone or tablet computer.

In this embodiment, if the portable boundary-notification device 118 is determined by the controller 148 to be within the safe zone but not within the buffer zone, no instructional signal 150 will be emitted by the portable boundary-notification device 118. However, once the portable boundary-notification device 118 is determined to be within the buffer zone, a first instructional signal 150 is emitted by an instructional output element 152. Such a signal notifies the user that they are straying towards the boundary, and can also include instructions to turn around, or possibly include data such as how far they are from the boundary and in what direction.

A second instructional signal 150, different to the first instructional signal 150, is outputted by the instructional output element 152 if the portable boundary-notification device 118 is determined to be outside of the safe zone, beyond the boundary. Such an instructional signal 150 could include instructions to the user to turn around and move back within the safe zone and could also include such useful information as the distance and direction the user should travel in order to accomplish this.

Whilst not shown in the present embodiment, the portable boundary-notification device could also communicate with a third party, such as a security or law enforcement professional to inform them that the user has strayed beyond the boundary, enabling them to pursue the user and encourage them to move back into the safe zone.

Figures 4a, 4b and 4c show three further embodiments of a language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus 200, 300, 400. These embodiments each show a user 253, wearing a portable boundary-notification device 218 which, as shown in Figure 5, contains a location determining element 234, instructional output element 252, programmable memory element 238 and controller 248, as in the first embodiment. However, the demarcation means 244, 344, 444 in each of these three further embodiments is external to the portable boundary-notification device 218. A flow-chart depicting this arrangement is shown in Figure 5, with identical or similar features having identical or similar references to Figure 3. Further description of like features is omitted, for brevity. In each of Figures 4a-c, the visitor path itself is not shown.

Firstly referring to Figure 4a, there is shown a second embodiment of a language- programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus 200. A centrally located electromagnetic transmitter 254 transmits signals which create the boundary 208 and buffer zone 210. The user 253 wearing the portable boundary-notification device 218 is located within the boundary 208. The location determining element 234 of the portable boundary-notification device 218 is configured to detect the signals by way of an electromagnetic receiver, and thus determine where the user 253 is relative to the boundary 208. In this way, the portable boundary-notification device 218 can then operate as described above.

Figure 4b shows a plurality of electromagnetic transmitters 354 arranged at or adjacent to the boundary 308. The combinations of signals transmitted by the electromagnetic transmitters 354 generate the boundary 308 and buffer zone 310, which can then be detected by the location determining element 234 as in Figure 4a. In Figure 4c, the boundary 408 and buffer zones 410 are defined by outer and inner rings 456, 458 of passive markers 460, respectively. These passive markers 460 may be small devices with radio-frequency identifier (RFID) tags, or similar, and are detectable by a passive marker detector, such as an RFID reader, which is additionally comprised within the location determining element 234 of the portable boundary-notification device 218. Therefore, as the user 253 passes over the boundary 408 or into the buffer zone 410, the passive marker detector detects the presence of the passive marker 460, enabling the controller 248 to instruct the instructional output element 252 to output an instructional signal 250, as described previously. Combinations of features of these embodiments may also be considered, as necessity dictates.

Whilst the language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus is shown in this embodiment as a portable boundary-notification device and provided external components, it would also be possible for the apparatus to be provided as part of a personal mobile computing device such as a mobile phone or tablet computer. In this manner, at least the controller could be provided as a downloadable executable computer application programme.

Figure 6 depicts the standard logic steps utilised in a method of providing instructional signals to a user. A spoken language of the user is determined at S10. This spoken language could, for example, be pre-programmed into the programmable memory element 138 of the language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus of Figure 2. A boundary and buffer zone, such as those depicted in Figure 1, must also then be determined SI 1. At this point, if the user is at or approaching the buffer zone SI 2, determined, for example, by a location determining element 130, a first instructional signal can be outputted S13 in order to encourage the user to move back away from the buffer zone.

If the user is not at or approaching the buffer zone, the detection of the user being at or approaching the boundary S14 results in the output of a second instructional signal S I 5, which is different from the first. If the user is not detected at near the boundary or buffer zone, S12 is repeated. S12 is also repeated after the output of the first or second instructional signals, such that the signal is generated until the user moves back within the boundary and away from the buffer zone. Instructional signals such as those described can be emitted from the instructional output element 152.

Whilst, in these embodiments of the language-programmable visitor-path boundary- notification apparatus and method, two different instructional signals are described, it is possible to provide a greater number of instructional signals if the situation requires it. For example, a first instructional signal could be triggered by the user approaching the buffer zone; a second instructional signal could be emitted upon approaching the boundary; and a third instructional signal could be released once the user is beyond the boundary. By providing a greater number of instructional signals, the user can be kept better informed about their present situation, and/or more precise instructions can be provided at any time. Further instructional signals could also be added, restricted only by the technical limitations of the apparatus or device.

A first embodiment of a visitor directive device 562 is shown in Figure 7. The visitor directive device 562 comprises a location determining element 530, programmable memory element 538, controller 548 and instructional output element 552. The physical arrangement shown in Figure 2 may conveniently be utilised.

The location determining element 530 in this embodiment is an antenna 532. This antenna 532 receives location data from a location source 534 such as the global navigation satellite system 536 depicted. This location data can then be utilised by the controller 548 to determine the location of the visitor directive device 562.

Additionally, in this embodiment, the antenna 532 secondarily has a wireless transmission element 564, comprising a cellular radio transceiver 566 and a Wi-Fi transceiver 568. By doing so, the antenna 532 can additionally receive and transmit information to a third party 570, shown here as an external server 572. Such information can include activity instructions, user habits, location data, destination data, or any other such data.

Whilst the location data is hereby received from a global navigation satellite system 536, it could also be received locally by use of Wi-Fi or cellular radio. Alternatively, the location data could be derived from other features such as a transmitter placed at a predetermined destination.

In turn, the information received by the antenna 532 is processed by the controller 548. The controller 548 is in communication with the programmable memory element 538, shown in this embodiment as an SD card 540. The SD card 540 can store the information received by the antenna 532, along with a spoken language of a user which can be written to the SD card 540 before insertion, or received via the antenna 532 from the external server 572. This information is then readily available to the controller 548 as and when it is needed. Destination data stored in the SD card 540 allows the controller 548 to determine, by use of the location data received from the antenna 532, whether the visitor directive device 562 has reached the predetermined destination, which could be one of many predetermined destinations stored as data within the SD card 540.

Whilst an SD card 540 is utilised in this embodiment, other such memory could be housed within the visitor directive device. This memory could be in the form of a hard disk drive (HDD), solid state drive (SSD), flash memory, or random access memory (RAM). Alternatives to these named possibilities will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.

If the controller 548 determines that the visitor directive device 562, and thus the user, has reached the predetermined destination, then the controller 548 outputs activity instructions 574, which are specific to the or each predetermined destination, by way of the instructional output element 552.

The activity instructions 574 are indicative of a process to be undertaken by the user at a predetermined destination to which they are associated. For example, a predetermined destination could be a place of religious significance to the user. In this case, the activity instructions 574 stored would instruct the user to carry out a certain ritual, such as a specific number of times to circumambulate a part of the predetermined destination, or when and in what direction to pray. Alternatively, the predetermined destination could be a visitor attraction, whereby the activity instructions 574 could instruct a user as to what building they should go to in order to register for the attraction and what documents the user must produce.

The examples given are not meant to be in any way limiting to the possibilities of use of the visitor directive device. Other possible combinations of predetermined destinations and activity instructions will be obvious to those skilled in the art. The activity instructions 574 will then be emitted from the instructional output elements 552, which are shown in Figure 7 as both a speaker 552a and a display element 552b. The speaker 552a is thus able to emit audible activity instructions 574, such as a prerecorded or computer-generated voice in the spoken language of the user, whilst the display element 552b can emit visual activity instructions 574, such as text, maps or other diagrams.

The instructional output element could also take other forms, such as lights, an electronic braille producer or a transmitting element for sending an instructional signal as a notification to a personal mobile computer device of the user, such as a mobile phone or tablet computer. Whilst the visitor directive device 562 is shown in this embodiment as a discrete device, it would also be possible for the device to be provided as part of a personal mobile computing device such as a mobile phone or tablet computer. In this manner, at least the controller could be provided as a downloadable executable computer application programme. Figure 8 shows a method of providing activity instructions to a user. Firstly, the spoken language of the user is determined S20. A destination of the user must be predetermined

521, which is the point which must be reached before the activity instructions are provided. In use, this information could be programmed into, or stored within the programmable memory element 538 of the visitor directive device shown in Figure 7. It must then be determined when the user has reached their predetermined destination

522, by way of the location determining element 530. If they have, the activity instructions can then be provided S23, for instance as an audible or textual instruction from the instructional output element 552 of the visitor directive device 562. After this, S22 can be repeated such that the activity instructions can continue to be provided, or different activity instructions be provided upon the user reaching a different destination.

Whilst the method is described with reference to a visitor directive device of the third aspect of the invention, it is anticipated that the method could be carried out with or without the use of such a visitor directive device. Although it is most preferable to utilise the above-described device with a language programmable function, it may be feasible in some circumstances to utilise visual and/or audible alert or indicator signals which are not language based, such as one or more lights, a buzzer and/or tones. However, this is not so preferable due to the potential lack of understanding by the end user, particularly when the end user is visiting a site, such as on a pilgrimage, and really does require clear and concise direction and instruction in their own language to make their visit as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

The term "programmable", where used, is intended to indicate that the described feature can be programmed, but is not intended to be limiting to the number of times the described feature may be programmed or by whom. For instance, programmable memory may be programmable once, such as write-once-read-many (WORM) memory, or may be programmable multiple times, for instance flash memory. It may also be programmable during manufacture or assembly only, or may be programmable during use by a user or another person. These examples are not exhaustive, and it is considered that many other possibilities would be apparant to one skilled in the art.

It is therefore possible to provide a, most-preferably language-programmable, visitor- path boundary-notification apparatus for providing notifications to a user if they stray over a predetermined boundary or into a predetermined buffer zone. The boundary and buffer zone are defined by a demarcation means of the apparatus, and a user is notified by way of local instructional signals on the carried or worn device when they stray into the buffer zone and/or beyond the boundary. The instructional signals are based on a spoken language of a user which is stored within a programmable memory element, along with the instructional signals. The location of the user relative to the boundary and/or buffer zone is determined by use of a location determining element and a controller on board the device carried or worn by the user, which processes and outputs the information both to the user and potentially in certain circumstances to a third party security and/or law enforcement agency.

Additionally, it is possible to provide a visitor directive device for providing activity instructions to a user upon them reaching a predetermined destination. Programmable memory within the device stores activity instructions based on a spoken language of the user, which are then emitted by an instructional output element when it is determined by a location determining element that the user has reached the predetermined destination. The activity instructions are indicative of a process to be undertaken by the user.

The words 'comprises/comprising' and the words 'having/including' when used herein with reference to the present invention are used to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof.

It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination.

The embodiments described above are provided by way of examples only, and various other modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the field without departing from the scope of the invention herein described and defined.

Claims

A language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus comprising a location determining element for determining a location of at least a part of the apparatus; a programmable memory element for storage of at least first and second different instructional data based on a predetermined spoken language of a user; an instructional output element in communication with the programmable memory element; demarcation means for defining both a predetermined boundary of a visitor path and a predetermined buffer zone at or contiguous with the boundary; and a controller for controlling the instructional output element to output at least a first and/or second instructional signal based on a location signal outputted by the location determining element relative to the defined boundary and/or the buffer zone.

A language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the instructional output element includes a speaker, for the output of the instructional signals as verbal instructions.

A language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the instructional output element includes a display element for the output of the instructional signals as text instructions.

A language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a portable boundary-notification device including at least the location determining element, programmable memory element, instructional output element, and controller.

A language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus as claimed in claim 4, wherein the portable boundary-notification device further includes the demarcation means.

A language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the demarcation means includes a boundary database for the storing of boundary position data.

7. language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the location determining element includes an antenna for the receipt of satellite-transmitted location data.

8. A language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the demarcation means comprises a plurality of demarcation devices at or adjacent to the boundary and/or buffer zone.

9. A language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the demarcation means includes at least one electromagnetic transmitter.

10. A language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus as claimed in claim 9, wherein the language-programmable visitor-path boundary- notification apparatus further includes an electromagnetic receiver for receiving locating signals from the or each electromagnetic transmitter.

11. A language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the demarcation means includes at least one passive marker and the location determining element includes a passive marker detecting means for detecting the proximity of the or each passive marker.

12. A language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus as claimed in any one claims 4 to 11, wherein the portable boundary notification device includes a user attachment means.

13. A language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein the user attachment means includes a wrist-strap and/or lanyard.

14. A language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 4 to 13, wherein the portable boundary notification device is formed as part of a personal mobile computing device. language-programmable visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus claimed in claim 14, wherein at least the controller is formed as a downloadable executable computer application program.

16. A method of notifying a visitor on a visitor-path of a boundary at or adjacent thereto, the method comprising the steps of: a] determining a spoken language of a visitor; b] defining both a boundary of a visitor path and a predetermined buffer zone at, within or adjacent to the boundary; and c] outputting in the said determined spoken language at least a first instructional signal when the visitor is at or approaches the buffer zone, and a second instructional signal which is different to the first instructional signal when the visitor is at, approaches and/or is beyond the boundary.

17. A method as claimed in claim 16, utilising the language-programmable visitor- path boundary-notification apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 15.

18. A visitor directive device for providing activity instructions to a user comprising: a location determining element for determining the location of the visitor directive device; a plurality of activity instructions, indicative of a process to be undertaken by the user, based on a spoken language of the user; a programmable memory element for storage of said activity instructions; a controller; and an instructional output element for providing the user with said activity instructions; the controller determining by way of the location determining element that the visitor directive device has reached a predetermined destination and the instructional output element then providing said activity instructions based on an activity to be performed at the destination.

19. A visitor directive device as claimed in claim 18, wherein the instructional output element includes a speaker for the output of the activity instructions as verbal instructions.

20. A visitor directive device as claimed in claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the instructional output element includes a display element for the output of the activity instructions as text instructions.

21. A visitor directive device as claimed in claim 20, wherein the activity instructions are provided pictorially.

22. A visitor directive device as claimed in claim 20 or claim 21, wherein the activity instructions are provided as part of a map.

23. A visitor directive device as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 22, further comprising a wireless transmission element for relaying information between the visitor directive device and a remote server.

24. A visitor directive device as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 23, wherein the programmable memory element is configured to store activity instructions, either permanently or temporarily.

25. A visitor directive device as claimed in claim 23 or claim 24, wherein the wireless transmission element includes a cellular radio transceiver.

26. A visitor directive device as claimed in any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein the wireless transmission element includes a Wi-Fi transceiver.

27. A visitor directive device as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 26, further comprising a user-wearable housing in which is provided the location determining element, programmable memory element, controller and informational output element.

28. A visitor directive device as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 27, further comprising a user attachment means.

29. A visitor directive device as claimed in claim 28, wherein the user attachment means includes a wrist-strap and/or lanyard.

30. A visitor directive device as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 30, formed as part of a personal mobile computing device.

31. A visitor directive device as claimed in claim 30, wherein at least the controller is formed as a downloadable executable computer application program.

32. A method of providing a user with instructions at a visitor site, the method comprising the steps of: a] providing a user with a visitor directive device as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 31; b] the visitor directive device determining when the user has reached a predetermined destination; and c] the visitor directive device providing the user with activity instructions indicative of a process to be undertaken by the user at the predetermined destination.

33. A method as claimed in claim 32, further comprising the steps of: determining a spoken language of the user; and providing the activity instructions in the said spoken language.

34. A visitor-path boundary-notification apparatus comprising a location determining element for determining a location of at least a part of the apparatus on a visitor path; a programmable memory element for storage of at least first and second different user-instructional data; an instructional output element in communication with the programmable memory element; demarcation means for defining both a predetermined boundary of the visitor path and a predetermined buffer zone contiguous with the boundary; and a controller for controlling the instructional output element to output at least a first and/or second instructional signal based on a location signal outputted by the location determining element relative to the defined boundary and/or the buffer zone.

35. A method of notifying a visitor on a visitor-path of a boundary at or adjacent thereto, the method comprising the steps of: a] defining both a boundary of a visitor path and a predetermined buffer zone at, within or adjacent to the boundary; and b] outputting at least a first instructional signal when the visitor is at or approaches the buffer zone, and a second instructional signal which is different to the first instructional signal when the visitor is at, approaches and/or is beyond the boundary.