WO2017041141A1

WO2017041141A1 - Remote activated sports device and system

Info

Publication number: WO2017041141A1
Application number: PCT/AU2016/050848
Authority: WO
Inventors: Gary Stanley
Original assignee: Velocity Sports Research Pty. Ltd.
Priority date: 2015-09-11
Filing date: 2016-09-09
Publication date: 2017-03-16

Abstract

A signalling device comprising a housing and a signalling module having a light source, a controller unit, and a wireless communication module interfaced to the controller unit, wherein the wireless communication module is configured to receive a wireless communication from an activation device, the communication comprising data, and wherein the controller unit is configured to: determine that data received by the wireless communication module comprises an instruction intended for the signalling device; and in response, to enable the light source.

Description

Remote activated sports device and system

Field of the Invention The invention generally relates to remote control of signalling devices. Typically, such signalling devices are configured for producing a signal (e.g. light) upon reception of a wireless instruction to do so. Background to the Invention

Participation in sports (socially, competitively, and professionally) typically involves undertaking practice in particular drills designed to improve the ability of the participant to perform well. Such drills can involve additional equipment not typically utilised within the actual sport itself.

In ball sports, some typical drills will aim to improve control and aim of the ball in question (improvement in "ball skills") . For example, in soccer, a participant might be expected to receive the ball from another participant, and then to achieve a certain level of control of the ball before passing the ball to another participant or taking a shot at goal.

Existing drills for improving ball skills may rely upon a coach passing a ball to a participant, and then the participant is expected to demonstrate control before passing the ball to another player.

It would be desirable to provide means to enable a coach to signal to the participant an intended destination for the ball at any time, thereby enabling the coach to

"surprise" the participant with a destination not known to the participant until they have demonstrated control over the received ball. It is further desirable that the signal is easily

perceived by the participant.

Summary of the Invention

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a signalling device comprising a housing and a signalling module having a light source, a controller unit, and a wireless communication module interfaced to the controller unit, wherein the wireless communication module is configured to receive a wireless communication from an activation device, the communication comprising data, and wherein the controller unit is configured to: determine that data received by the wireless communication module comprises an instruction intended for the

signalling device; and in response, to enable the light source .

Typically, the wireless communication module is configured for one-way communication with the activation device or alternatively the wireless communication module is configured for two-way communication with the activation device . In an embodiment, the signalling module is removably attached to the housing. The housing and/or signalling module may be provided with attachment features.

Preferably, the housing and signalling module are provided with complementary attachment features, more preferably threaded features. Optionally, the signalling device comprises sealing means such as an O-ring provided between the housing and signalling module. In an alternative embodiment, the signalling module and housing are

integrally formed. The housing and signalling module substantially may define a cone, preferably wherein the signalling module defines the apex of the cone. Preferably, the light source is an LED light source comprising one LED or a plurality of LEDs . Optionally, at least one LED is a multiple colour LED. In this case, the controller unit may be further configured to: identify a colour for a multiple colour LED; and to cause said multiple colour LED to emit the identified colour. The colour may be identified from an instruction received from activation device. Optionally, the housing comprises a battery unit

comprising a battery, the battery unit having an

electrical connection to the signalling module such that the battery provides electrical power to the signalling module. The battery may be a rechargeable battery and the housing may comprise a connection point for receiving a connection to an external charger to enable charging of the battery. The battery unit may be removable from the housing. When the housing and signalling module are separable, connection points configured to allow the electrical connection between the battery unit and the signalling module may be provided, which enable electrical connection only when the housing and signalling module are in a predefined relative position. Typically, the signalling module comprises a transparent or translucent protective wall configured to allow transmission of light generated by the light source. The protective wall, optionally in conjunction with the housing, may encase the light source. The protective wall may be elastically deformable, preferably comprising a thermoplastic elastomer. Optionally, the protective wall is secured to the housing with a retaining ring.

In an embodiment, the controller unit is configured to selectively enable and disable the light source in dependence on data received by the wireless communication module. The controller unit may be configured to disable the light source in response to a signal received from one, one or more, or each of the sensors. The signalling device optionally comprises a proximity sensor configured to produce a signal due to detecting an object present within a predefined distance of the proximity sensor, and the controller unit is configured to disable the light source in response to production of the signal.

Preferably, the proximity sensor is configured to detect an impact between the object and the signalling device (wherein the impact corresponds to the predefined

distance) . The controller unit is optionally configured to disable the light source after a predetermined elapsed time from enabling the light source. Preferably, the communication comprises an identifier, and the controller unit determines that the instruction is intended for the signalling device at least due to the identifier being associated with it. Typically, the controller unit is configured to discard data not intended for the signalling device.

The wireless communication module optionally communicates according to at least one of: proprietary RF

communications; Bluetooth; Wi-Fi ( 802.11a, b, g, n etc.); ZigBee; and Z-Wave.

The signalling device may be permanently configured as one of a master and a slave. Alternatively, the signalling device may be selectively configurable as a master or a slave. Optionally, when configured as a master, the signalling device is further configured to: determine that data received by the wireless communication module comprises an instruction intended for another signalling device configured as a slave; and communicate said data to the other signalling device. Optionally, when selectively configured as a slave, the signalling device is configured to receive the wireless communication form the activation device via another signalling device.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for enabling a signalling device, the signalling device comprising a controller unit interfaced to a light source and a wireless communication module, the method comprising the steps of: receiving at the wireless communication module data from an activation device; determining that the data comprises an instruction for the signalling device to change to an enabled mode of the signalling device; and in response, enabling the light source . Optionally, the method further comprises the steps of: receiving at the wireless communication module an

identifier associated with the data, wherein the step of determining that the data comprises an instruction for the signalling device to change to an enabled mode of the signalling device comprises, at least in part, determining that the received identifier is associated with the signalling device.

The wireless communication module preferably receives the data according to any one of the following protocols:

proprietary RF communications; Bluetooth; Wi-Fi

( 802.11a, b, g, n etc.); ZigBee; and Z-Wave.

In an embodiment, the controller unit comprises a

processor interfaced to the wireless communication module and the light source, and wherein the controller unit is configured for determining that the data comprises an instruction for the signalling device to change to an enabled mode of the signalling device, and in response, the controller unit is configured to provide an

instruction to enable the light source. Optionally, the light source is one LED or a plurality of LEDs .

The method may further comprise the steps of: determining that an end condition is satisfied after enablement of the light source; and in response , disabling the light source.

Typically, the end condition comprises at least one of: a predetermined elapsed time sinee enablement of the light source; a signal or signals produced by one or more sensors; and a communication from the activation device instructing that the signalling device should disable the light source. The method optionally further comprises the step of:

communicating information to the activation device indicating that the light source is enabled.

Preferably, the method further comprises the step of:

communicating information to the activation device indicating a period of time that the light source was enabled. Also preferably, the method further comprises the step of: communicating information to the activation device indicating a cause of disablement of the light source.

Preferably, the method further comprises the steps of: receiving from the activation device configuration data; and configuring operation of the signalling device based on the received configuration data. The configuration data may be selected from one or more of: light source

brightness; light source colour; and light source

operation mode . Optionally, the signalling device is a slave and the data is received from the activation device via another signalling device. According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for enabling one of a plurality of signalling devices, each signalling device comprising a controller unit interfaced to a light source and a wireless communication module, the method comprising the steps of: receiving at the wireless communication module of each signalling device data from an activation device; one of the plurality of signalling devices determining that the data comprises an instruction for it to change to an enabled mode and in response activating its light source; and the, or each, remaining signalling device discarding the data.

The method may further comprise the steps of: configuring one of the plurality of signalling devices as a master; and configuring the, or each, remaining signalling device as a slave; According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a remote signalling system comprising an activation device and a plurality of signalling devices, wherein the activation device comprises a wireless unit configured for communicating data wirelessly to each of the signalling devices, wherein each signalling device comprises a housing comprising a signalling module having a light source, a controller unit, and a wireless

communication module interfaced to the controller unit, each signalling device configured to: receive at its wireless communication module data communicated wirelessly by the activation device; and in response, determine that the data comprises an instruction for it to change to an enabled mode and to then activate its light source or determine that the data does not comprise an instruction for it to change to an enabled mode and to then discard the data. Optionally, each signalling device is further configured to: when currently in an enabled mode and in response to determining that the data does not comprise an instruction for it to change to an enabled mode, enter into a disabled mode.

The activation device may be in network communication with a database. The activation device is preferably a portable computing device such as a smartphone having display interface configured for receiving an input from a user, the display interface enabling a user to specify a signalling device, and the activation device configured for communicating data in response to the user specifying the signalling device. The communicated data typically includes an identifier configured for identifying the specified signalling device.

The display optionally comprises an arrangement of icons, each associated with a signalling device, and the user specifies a signalling device by pressing on the display in a region of the associated icon.

Preferably, each signalling device informs the activation device of its presence through wireless communication.

The signalling devices of the system are optionally the signalling devices of the first aspect.

Brief description of the drawings

In order that the invention may be more clearly

understood, embodiments will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawing, in which :

Figure 1 shows a remote signalling system comprising one- way communication; Figure 2 shows a remote signalling system comprising two- way communication;

Figure 3 shows a signalling device formed from separable components ;

Figure 4 shows a signalling module of a signalling device Figure 4 shows an activation device;

Figure 5 shows a method for enabling a signalling device; Figure 6 shows a basic display interface of an activation device;

Figure 7a shows a method incorporating two-way

communication;

Figure 7b shows a method incorporating two-way

communication with additional data; and

Figure 8 shows an implementation comprising a master signalling device and a plurality of slave signalling devices .

Detail description of particular embodiments In the drawings, general elements are labelled with a numerical reference. A general element can comprise multiple specific instances (such as the different signalling devices 12a-c of Figure 1), which are labelled with the numerical reference of the general element and an additional letter suffix to distinguish the specific instances. Also in the drawings, method steps shown in broken lines correspond to optional steps .

Referring to Figures la and lb, there is shown a remote signalling system 10 according two embodiments. In each case, the remote signalling system 10 comprises two or more signalling devices 12 (three signalling devices 12a, 12b, 12c are shown in the figure) and an activation device 14. In Figure 1, the activation device 14 is in wireless one-way communication with the signalling devices 12a-c. In Figure 2, the activation device 14 is in wireless two- way communication with the signalling devices 12a-c. Also shown, though optional, is the activation device 14 m data communication with a network 16. Also optionally, the activation device 14 is in data communication with network storage 18 via the network 16.

According to the embodiment of Figure 1, the activation device 14 is in one-way communication with the signalling devices 12a-c, such that the activation device 14 is configured for communicating data to the signalling devices 12a-c. Typically, according to this embodiment, the activation device 14 is configured for intermittent communication; that is, the activation device 14 is not in continuous data communication with the signalling devices 12a-c. For example, the activation device 14 communicates data to one or more of the signalling devices 12a-c in response to an input received from a user of the

activation device 14. According to the embodiment of Figure 2, the activation device 14 is in two-way

communication with the signalling devices 12a-c. Herein, it is assumed that either embodiment is applicable to features described unless specified otherwise.

Referring to Figure 3, each signalling device 12 comprises a housing 20 and a signalling module 22. The signalling module 22 is attachable to the housing 20 via

complementary attachment features 23, 27 located on the housing 20 and signalling module 22 respectively.

Typically, the complementary attachment features 23, 27 comprise threaded portions configured to allow attachment via screwing of the housing 20 relative to the signalling module. It is understood that any suitable attachment feature or features 23, 27 may be utilised. That is, attachment features 23 or 27 located on one of the housing 20 and signalling module 22 are envisaged. Generally, alternative attachment features 23, 27 include friction based features, one or more clips, one or more screws, etc. Sealing means 25, such as an O-ring, can be provided to seal the internal portions of the housing 20 and signalling module 22 from environmental factors, such as liquid or moisture. In a modification (not shown), the signalling module 22 is formed integrally with the housing 20. In another modification (not shown), the signalling module 22 is formed separately and subsequently attached to the housing 20 such as to be permanently attached to the housing 20. The signalling device 12 is typically for use in outdoor environments, and may be subject to wear and tear common to sports equipment. Due to this, the housing 20 comprises a sufficiently durable material in order to resist damage in these environments. Also, the housing 20 is typically required to be waterproof. The housing can be, for example, formed from one or more of: polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, polyamides, engineered plastics, etc . The particular signalling device shape shown in Figure 3 is suitable for use with drills associated with certain sports, such as soccer. The shape is similar to training cones, with a base diameter at least approximately 90 mm and a height of at least approximately 60 mm. More generally, the shape and dimensions can take on a variety of forms as required, for example, alternative shapes include posts, disks, boxes, etc.

According to an embodiment, housing 20 contains a battery unit 26. The battery unit 26 includes a rechargeable battery (which may comprise one or more cells) and the housing 20 comprises a connection point 28 for allowing an external charger to be connected to the battery unit 26 to enable charging of the battery. The connection point 28 can be of conventional design, including but not limited to one of: a socket for receiving a jack; and exposed conductive pins configured to interface with charging pins of another device. The battery unit 26 is optionally removable. Alternatively, the housing 26 does not comprise a connection point 28 and the battery unit 26 must be removed once the battery is no longer sufficiently charged and replaced with a charged battery unit 26. In a related alternative, the battery is not rechargeable. The housing 20 also comprises an on/off switch 29. It is envisaged that a signalling device 12 could be configured for charging the battery of another signalling device 12.

The housing 20 comprises means to allow electrical connection between the two terminals of the battery of the battery unit 26 and the signalling module 22. In

implementations having an attachable signalling module 22, contact points are provided to enable the electrical connection. In the example shown in Figure 3, the contact points constitute two pins which are configured for interfacing with corresponding contact points on the signalling module 22. In this example, the contact points are only engaged for allowing electrical conductivity when the signalling module 22 and housing 20 are in a

predefined relative position, such as completely threaded together where the attachment features 23a, 23b are complementary threaded portions . Alternative means for enabling electrical connection are envisaged, such as electrical wires provided with both the housing 20 and signalling module 22, the electrical wires including complementary connectors (such as a plug and a socket), which can be connected together before the housing 20 and signalling module 22 are attached.

In implementations where housing 20 and signalling module 22 are formed integrally, it is typical that a fixed connection is provided between the signalling module 22 and battery unit 26.

The housing 20 can comprise additional compartments and features. For example, the housing 20 can be provided with wheels or similar to assist with moving the signalling device 12. Also, a compartment or several compartments can be provided for storing additional features of the signalling device 12, such as replacement parts.

The signalling module 22 comprises a transparent or translucent protective wall 34 and a light source.

According to embodiments described herein the light source comprises a light emitting diode module comprising one or a plurality of light emitting diodes (LED) 38. Typically, the protective wall 34 is transparent or translucent to the entire visible spectrum, however it is understood that the protective wall 34 may be coloured such that it is transparent to a subset of the visible wavelengths, such as a subset encompassing the wavelengths of the one or more LEDs 38. Though reference is made herein to LEDs 38, any suitable electrically powered light source can be utilised in conjunction with or instead of LEDs 38.

Furthermore, reference is made typically to a plurality if LEDs 38, however it is understood that there may be a single LED 38 for each signalling device 12.

Similar to the housing, the protective wall 34 is

sufficiently durable to withstand normal wear and tear associated with sports practice . In particular, the protective wall 34 is typically required to be waterproof. The protective wall 34, optionally in conjunction with the housing 20, encases the light source. In an embodiment, the protective wall 34 comprises a rigid, durable plastic, such as such as polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, polyamides, engineered plastics, etc.

In an embodiment, the signalling device 12 further comprises an elastically deformable outer wall 39, whereby it can deform upon receiving an impact (such as when hit by a player) and subsequently revert to its usual shape. In this embodiment, the outer wall 39 can comprise a thermoplastic elastomer. In an implementation of this embodiment, outer wall 39 is affixed to the signalling module 22 via a retaining ring configured for threaded engagement with the housing 20. The retaining ring in this case is configured to secure an outside region of the protective wall 34 between itself and the housing 20.

Other means for affixing the outer wall 39 to the housing 20 and/or signalling module 22 may instead be employed.

The signalling module 22 is shown schematically in Figure 4. The signalling module 22 comprises a controller unit 40 interfaced to a wireless communication module 42. The controller unit 40 comprises a processor 41 configured to selectively enable and disable the LEDs 38 in response to communication between the wireless communication module 42 and the activation device 14. The processor 41 can be, for example, a microcontroller. The LEDs 38 can be interfaced to an LED controller 43, which is itself interfaced to the processor 41 of the controller unit 40. The processor 41 thereby provides instruction to the LED controller 43 to enable or disable one, some, or all of the LEDs 38, as required. In an embodiment, features of the signalling module 22 are coated in an appropriate (e.g. insulating and transparent) resin to provide additional protection from shock and the elements.

In an embodiment, one or more features of the signalling module 22 are physically separable from other features of the module 22. For example, the controller unit 40 and wireless communication module 42 can be located within the housing 20 and the LEDs 38 are located in a separable structural component comprising the protective wall 34. When attached, the LEDs 38 and controller unit 40 are in electrical communication, thereby providing the

functionality of the signalling module 22. In embodiments providing for one-way communication between the activation device 14 and the signalling device 12, the wireless communication module 42 is configured for receiving data only. In embodiments providing for two-way communication between the activation device 14 and the signalling device 12, the wireless communication module 42 is configured for receiving and transmitting data.

Each LED 38 can be a single colour LED or a multiple colour LED (an LED with selectable colour output) . In embodiments comprising a plurality of LEDs 38, the LEDs can be of the same type or differ in colour output.

The controller unit 40 is configured to identify an instruction to enable one or more LEDs 38. In response, the controller unit 40 performs actions to enable the relevant LEDs 38. "Enabled mode" of the signalling device 12 corresponds to one or more LEDs 38 being enabled.

Similarly, "disabled mode" of the signalling device 12 corresponds to no LEDs 38 being enabled (all LEDs 38 are disabled) . In embodiments comprising one or more multiple colour LEDs, the instruction may also comprise information specifying a colour for at least one multicolour LED. The signalling device 12 is maintained in the enabled mode until the controller unit 40 performs actions to disable all of the LEDs 38, thereby causing the signalling device 12 to enter the disabled mode. In an embodiment, enabled mode is maintained for a predetermined amount of time, before returning to disabled mode. Alternatively, or in combination, the controller unit 40 can be configured to maintain enabled mode until receiving a further

instruction to disable the LEDs 38. The further

instruction can be received from the wireless

communication module 42.

In an embodiment, the number of LEDs 38 enabled upon receiving the instruction is dependent on an ambient light reading and/or a time of day. The ambient light reading and/or time of day may be specified by the wireless communication module 42. For example, all LEDs 38 are enabled during the day, half the LEDs 38 are enabled at dawn and dusk, and a quarter of the LEDs 38 are enabled at night .

In an embodiment, the controller unit 40 is further interfaced to one or more sensors 44. The controller unit 40 is configured to, in response to receiving a signal from at least one sensor 44, disable the LEDs 38. In an implementation, at least one sensor 44 is a proximity sensor, configured to sense an object (e.g. a ball such as a soccer ball or a player) coming within a certain distance of the signalling device 12. The proximity sensor can be a motion detector capable of sensing contacting between an object (such as a ball or a player) and the signalling device 12. On detecting the object, the proximity sensor signals the controller unit 40, which then causes the signalling device 12 to enter its disabled mode. In an embodiment, the proximity sensor is configured to detect contact between the object and the signalling device 12.

The controller unit 40 can also be interfaced with an indicator light 32. The indicator light 32 can represent a single state, or several difference states, of the signalling device 12. For example, the indicator light 32 can be used to show a low battery situation.

The activation device 14 is configured for wireless communication with the one or more signalling devices 12. As previously described, the wireless communication can be one-way (see Figure 1) or two-way (see Figure 2) .

In either case, the activation device 14 is configured for communicating data comprising an instruction for one or more (typically, a single instruction is directed towards one) of the signalling devices 12 to switch to its enabled mode. Optionally, the data comprises further information relating to the operation of the signalling device 12.

Examples of further information are described with respect to specific embodiments .

Seeing as the communication is wireless, typically the data sent by the activation device 14 is not directly targeted to the intended signalling device 12, and instead the data is broadcast to several (often all) of the signalling devices 12. Therefore, the data includes an identifier, the identifier being uniquely associated with the intended signalling device 12. When a signalling device 12 receives data from the activation device 14, it is configured to determine, based on the received

identifier, whether it is the intended signalling device 12 or not. If the signalling device 12 determines that it is the intended signalling device 12, it continues to process the received information. Otherwise, the

signalling device 12 discards the received information.

The identifiers can be dynamically determined, which is particular suitable for embodiments having two-way communication. Here, an initial communication occurs between each of the signalling devices 12 and the

activation device 14 in order to determine a unique identifier for each signalling device 12. Alternatively, the identifiers are preconfigured for each signalling device 12.

An identifier can be a network address of the wireless communication module 42, in which case the data is only provided to the processor 41 if the network communication module 42 determines that the received network address is its network address . In an alternative embodiment, each signalling device 12 is configured to respond to a unique wireless band. In this case, rather than transmitting identifiers, the activation device 14 simply broadcasts within the band associated with the particular signalling device 12.

The activation device 14 comprises hardware that can be conventional in nature or specifically designed for the purpose. Reference is primarily made to the activation device 14 implemented as a function of a portable

computing device such as a smartphone, however, a

specially designed portable device having inbuilt

instructions and hardware for producing the functionality of the activation device 14 is also envisaged.

The activation device 14 comprises a wireless unit having the same wireless protocol as the wireless communication module 42. Suitable wireless communication protocols include: proprietary RF communications; Bluetooth; Wi-Fi ( 802.11a, b, g, n etc.); ZigBee; Z-Wave; etc.

The activation device 14 also comprises a user interface configured for receiving an input from a user of the activation device 14. The user interface enables a user to: select one of the plurality of signalling devices 12 to which to send information; and to trigger the

activation device 14 to communicate the information. In an embodiment, the user interface comprises an electronic display, such as a touchscreen. In another embodiment, the user interface comprises buttons, switches, and the like.

Referring to Figure 5, a method for operating the

activation device 14 in order to cause communication wi a signalling device 12 according to an embodiment is shown. This method is applicable to embodiments having one-way or two-way communications. The user interface i an electronic display interface 48, which presents to the user a display suitable for enabling the user to select one of a plurality of signalling devices 12, at interface step 101. Generally, the display is generated by the activation device 14 as required. In another embodiment, the user interface comprises buttons, each associated uniquely with a signalling device 12. In this embodiment, interface step 101 simply corresponds to the user viewing the selection of buttons available.

The plurality of signalling devices 12 can be known to the activation device 14; for example, the plurality is preselected and always presented to the user. In an

alternative, the user configures the activation device 14 before use of the device 14, for example, by inputting into the activation device 14 identification information uniquely associated with each signalling device 12. In yet another alternative, applicable to embodiments having two- way communication, each signalling device 12 communicates information to the activation device 12 indicating that it is present and activated; from this information the activation device 14 generates the interface to present to the user at optional generation step 100. In an embodiment, each signalling device 12 comprises a locating module interfaced with its controller unit 40. The locating module is configured for determining a spatial location of the signalling device 12, and can comprise a GPS unit. Each signalling device 12

communicates to the activation device 12 its spatial location. From this information, the activation device 12 generates an interface representing the relative locations of the signalling devices 12. The user, via the display interface 48, selects one of the signalling devices 12, as selection step 102. The display interface 48 can correspond to a touch screen of a smartphone, in which case the user touches the display interface 48 in a particular region of the screen to select the particular signalling device 12. In an

alternative, the user interacts with a hardware button of the display interface 48. In another alternative, the user presses a button of the user interface.

Figure 6 shows an example display interface 48 of the activation device 14. Here, a touch screen of a smartphone displays icons 52 for each of the plurality (in this case, there are three) of signalling devices 12. The user selects a particular signalling device 12 by touching the associated icon 52. Also shown is a group icon 53. The group icon 53 can be preconfigured to correspond to two or more signalling devices 12. Touching the group icon 53 will cause the activation device 14 to communicate to each of the preselected signalling devices 12 without further input . Referring back to Figure 5, the activation device 14 transmits wirelessly data comprising the identifier of the selected signalling device 12 and an instruction to enable the signalling device 12, at transmission step 103. The selected signalling device 12 and typically at least one other signalling device 12 (usually, all of the signalling devices 12 within range) then receive the data at reception step 104. Each signalling device 12 then performs check step 105 in order to determine whether the instruction is directed towards it. If a signalling device 12 determines the instruction is for a different

signalling device 12, then the method advances to data discard step 106 and the signalling device 12 takes no further action (with respect to this method) .

When a signalling device 12 determines that the

instruction is for it, the method proceeds to signal enable step 107. In this step, the signalling device 12 enters enabled mode; that is, it enables its LEDs 38 and any other optional feature associated with the enabled state. The signalling device 12 then checks (periodically or continuously) for an end condition to be satisfied, at step 108.

Once the end condition is satisfied, the signalling device 12 then proceeds to signal disable step 109, which simply corresponds to entering the disabled mode; that is, it disables the LEDs 38 and any other optional features.

Regarding optional features, these may be enabled and disabled at different points in time to the LEDs 38, depending on the implementation. Optional features are associated with the signalling module 22 separate to the light source, which typically provide non-optical

signalling. One example is an acoustic module for

producing sounds. When entering enabled mode, a sound is produced by this module, either as a one-off sound or continuously until the signalling device 12 enters disabled mode.

End conditions can be selected from one or more of

(amongst other possible end conditions) : a specified period of time occurring since entering enabled mode;

detection by a sensor of an end condition (such as a proximity sensor detecting the presence of an object); and the activation device 14 communicating data to the signalling device 12 indicating that it should enter disabled mode.

Referring to Figures 7a and 7b, embodiments utilising two- way communication are shown (as shown schematically in Figure 2) . It is understood that the two embodiments described can be combined. Referring first to Figure 7a, a method is shown wherein the signalling devices 12 are configured to send responses to received instructions . The method can be implemented as a modification to the method of Figure 5, and steps 100- 104 are not shown in Figure 7a. Upon receiving data from the activation device 14, a signalling device 12

determines if the instruction associated with the data is intended for it at check step 105, as previously

described .

According to the present method, the signalling device 12 sends an acknowledgement in dependence on the result of check step 105. In the present embodiment, a signalling device 12 communicates to the activation device 14 an accept acknowledgement at step 110 if it determines that the instruction is for it. On the other hand, a signalling device 12 communicates to the activation device 14 a decline acknowledgement at step 112 if it determines the instruction is not for it. It is envisaged that at least one of these steps 110, 112 may be an optional step.

The method also includes a step of an enabled signalling device 12 sending an end acknowledgement (step 111) in response to the end condition being satisfied, thereby informing the activation device 14 that the signalling device 12 has changed status to disabled mode.

The present embodiment allows for the activation device 14 to be informed accurately of the status of each signalling device 12, which may be of benefit where the user cannot see the LEDs 38 of the signalling devices 12, but requires that the activation device 14 accurately presents current statuses . Referring now to Figure 7b, an embodiment is described having the signalling devices 12 configured to communicate to the activation device 14 additional data. This embodiment is shown including the steps of the embodiment of Figure 7a, however it is understood that this is not required. Typically, the additional data is generated in response to an action of a sensor, and therefore the method of Figure 7b is particularly suitable for

embodiments wherein the signalling devices 12 incorporate one or more sensors .

When the end condition is satisfied (see step 108 of Figure 5), the signalling device 12 communicates end condition information to the activation device 14 related to the end condition, at condition transmission step 113. Depending on the embodiment, the end condition information can include the cause of the end condition and/or an elapsed time between the signalling device 12 being put into its enabled state followed by being placed into its disabled state (i.e. an amount of time that its LEDs 38 were enabled) and/or any other suitable information. The cause of the end condition is useful where more than one end condition is possible. For example, the end condition could be selected from either the activation of a sensor (such as a proximity sensor) or an elapsed time since the LEDs 38 were enabled, and this information is communicated to the activation device 14. The elapsed time is useful where variability in enablement time is possible .

The activation device 14 records the additional data received as a result of the method of Figure 7b.

Preferably, this additional data is recorded with an association to a particular participant. The additional data can be recorded into a database implemented within the activation device 14. Alternatively, or additionally, the additional data is recorded into a database

implemented within network attached storage, for example, within the cloud. Referring back to Figure 5, the data transmission step 104 can optionally include configuration data. The

configuration data comprises data that is in addition to the identifier of the selected signalling device 12 and the instruction to enable the signalling device 12 (as already described) . The particular additional data is dependent on the implementation, and as will be apparent, may or may not be required to be present in each

communication from activation device 14 to signalling device 12. The following examples can be combined as required .

In a first example, the brightness and/or colour of the LEDs 38 of a (or each) signalling device 12 is transmitted as additional data. Typically, this additional data is optional for each transmission, as the signalling devices 12 have a default brightness setting for when no

brightness is specified.

In another example, each signalling device 12 comprises, in addition to its LEDs 38, an acoustic module configured for producing audible sounds when the signalling device 12 is put into the enabled state. The activation device 14 can send data specifying a volume and/or a type of sound and/or an instruction to produce the sound as part of the additional data. Again, this additional data is typically optional as the signalling devices 12 have a default volume and/or sound type and/or default to making the sound or not.

In yet another example, a LED mode is optionally

transmitted as additional data. LED mode constitutes the manner in which the LEDs operate, for example, one of continuously, blinking, or some other option.

In general, the additional data is configured through interaction between a user and the activation device 1 . For example, the activation device 14 can present a

"configuration" or "options" display enabling the user to choose from options provided with the particular

implementation.

It is envisaged that the activation device 14 can be configured to operate the plurality of signalling devices 12 in an automatic manner. In this operation mode, the activation device 14 is preconfigured to communicate with the signalling devices 12 in a predetermined and usually sequential manner. A user may "pre-programme" the

activation device 14 with an intended sequence of

signalling device 12 activations. A user may also obtain a sequence of signalling device 12 activations from a repository of such sequences, for example as provided on a network database. This option enables users of different remote signalling systems 10 to share useful sequences with one another. The useful sequences can be shared according to known methods, for example, through the use of common network storage accessible to multiple users, sharing via so-called social media, and through direct messaging means such as e-mail. Where the activation device 14 is a portable computing device such as a smartphone, it is envisaged that the portable computing device can be configured with

functionality of an activation device 14 through

installation of suitable software.

Referring to Figure 8, in a variation to the embodiments described herein, a signalling device 12 can be a master or a slave. Typically, there will be one master signalling device 12-M and one or more slave signalling devices 12-S. The master signalling device 12-M is configured for receiving the data from the activation device 14 directly. The master signalling device 12-M is then configured to communicate the data to the slave signalling devices 12-S. This allows for the slave signalling devices 12-S to receive the data without directly communicating with the activation device 14.

In an implementation, the master signalling device 12-M only communicates the data when it comprises an

instruction for a slave signalling device 12-S (i.e. the instruction is not for the master signalling device 12-M)

In an embodiment, each signalling device 12 is selectively configured as a master or a slave. For example, this may be effected by an instruction communicated by the

activation device 14 to the signalling devices 12, or by a hardware interface located on the signalling devices 12 (e.g. a switch). In another embodiment, each signalling device 12 is permanently configured as either a master or a slave. Modifications and variations as would be apparent to a skilled addressee are deemed to be within the scope of the present invention. For example, as previously described, it is envisaged that the signalling devices 12 can be implemented in a number of different shapes and

configurations. One possible configuration envisaged includes fastening means, such as Velcro, provided with the signalling devices 12 to enable attachment to non- horizontal surfaces (such as walls). Another configuration is for signalling devices 12 configured as posts,

optionally with multiple signalling devices 12 attached to a single post. It is also envisaged that the signalling device 12 can be provided with attachment points for attaching accessory features, such as different coloured surfaces to enable easily customised differentiation between different signalling devices 12.

In another modification, the protective wall 34 is provided with a frosted appearance in order to produce a diffuse light when the LEDs 38 are enabled. Alternatively, a frosted cap accessory is provided for attachment to the protective wall 34 to provide a diffuse light source as required.

The signalling device 12 may include a reset button, for example interfaced with controller unit 40 or battery unit 26, configured to enable a reset function (e.g. causing the signalling module 22 to revert to an initial state) .

In the claims which follow and in the preceding

description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" or variations such as

"comprises" or "comprising" is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

Claims

1. A signalling device comprising a housing and a signalling module having a light source, a controller unit, and a wireless communication module interfaced to the controller unit, wherein the wireless communication module is configured to receive a wireless communication from an activation device, the communication comprising data, and wherein the controller unit is configured to: determine that data received by the wireless

communication module comprises an instruction intended for the signalling device; and

in response, to enable the light source.

2. A signalling device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wireless communication module is configured for one- way communication with the activation device or wherein the wireless communication module is configured for two- way communication with the activation device .

3. A signalling device as claimed in claim 1 or 2 , wherein the signalling module is removably attached to the housing .

4. A signalling device as claimed in claim 3, wherein the housing and/or signalling module are provided with attachment features .

5. A signalling device as claimed in claim 4, wherein the housing and signalling module are provided with complementary attachment features, preferably threaded features .

6. A signalling device as claimed in any one of claims 3 to 5, further comprising sealing means such as an O-ring provided between the housing and signalling module.

7. A signalling device as claimed in claim 1 or 2 , wherein the signalling module and housing are integrally formed .

8. A signalling device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the housing and signalling module

substantially define a cone, preferably wherein the signalling module defines the apex of the cone.

9. A signalling device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the light source is an LED light source comprising one LED or a plurality of LEDs .

10. A signalling device as claimed in claim 9, wherein at least one LED is a multiple colour LED.

11. A signalling device as claimed in claim 10, wherein the controller unit is further configured to: identify a colour for a multiple colour LED; and to cause said multiple colour LED to emit the identified colour.

12. A signalling device as claimed in claim 11, wherein the colour is identified from an instruction received from activation device.

13. A signalling device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the housing comprises a battery unit comprising a battery, the battery unit having an

electrical connection to the signalling module such that the battery provides electrical power to the signalling module .

14. A signalling device as claimed in claim 13, wherein the battery is a rechargeable battery and wherein the housing comprises a connection point for receiving a connection to an external charger to enable charging of the battery.

15. A signalling device , claimed in either one of claims 12 and 13, wherein e battery unit is removable from the housing .

16. A signalling device as claimed m any one of claims 12 to 14 when dependent on claim 3, comprising connection points configured to allow the electrical connection between the battery unit and the signalling module only when the housing and signalling module are in a predefine* relative position.

17. A signalling device as claimed in any one of the previous claims, wherein the signalling module comprises a transparent or translucent protective wall configured to allow transmission of light generated by the light source.

18. A signalling device as claimed in claim 17, wherein the protective wall, optionally in conjunction with the housing, encases the light source.

19. A signalling device as claimed in any one of claims 17 and 18, wherein the protective wall is elastically deformable, preferably comprising a thermoplastic

elastomer.

20. A signalling device as claimed in claim 19, wherein the protective wall is secured to the housing with a retaining ring.

21. A signalling device as claimed in any one of the previous claims, wherein the controller unit is configured to selectively enable and disable the light source in dependence on data received by the wireless communication module.

22. A signalling device as claimed in any one of claim 21, wherein the controller unit is configured to disable the light source in response to a signal received from one, one or more, or each of the sensors.

23. A signalling device as claimed in any one of the previous claims, comprising a proximity sensor configured to produce a signal due to detecting an object present within a predefined distance of the proximity sensor, and wherein the controller unit is configured to disable the light source in response to reception of the signal from the proximity sensor.

24. A signalling device as claimed in claim 23, wherein the proximity sensor is configured to detect an impact between the object and the signalling device.

25. A signalling device as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 24, wherein the controller unit is configured to disable the light source after a predetermined elapsed time from enabling the light source.

26. A signalling device as claimed in any one of the previous claims, wherein the communication comprises an identifier, and wherein the controller unit determines that the instruction is intended for the signalling device at least due to the identifier being associated with it.

27. A signalling device as claimed in any one of the previous claims, wherein the controller unit is configured to discard data not intended for the signalling device.

28. A signalling device as claimed in any one of the previous claims, wherein the wireless communication module communicates according to at least one of: proprietary RF communications; Bluetooth; Wi-Fi ( 802.11a, b, g, n etc.); ZigBee; and Z-Wave.

29. A signalling device as claimed in any one of the previous claims, wherein the signalling device is

permanently configured as one of a master and a slave

30. A signalling device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the signalling device is selectively configurable as a master or a slave.

31. A signalling device either as claimed in claim 29 wherein the signalling device is configured as a master or as claimed in claim 30 when selectively configured as a master, the signalling device being further configured to: determine that data received by the wireless

communication module comprises an instruction intended for another signalling device configured as a slave; and

communicate said data to the other signalling device.

32. A signalling device either as claimed in claim 29 wherein the signalling device is configured as a slave as claimed in claim 30 when selectively configured as slave, the signalling device configured to receive the wireless communication form the activation device via another signalling device.

33. A method for enabling a signalling device, the signalling device comprising a controller unit interfaced to a light source and a wireless communication module, the method comprising the steps of:

receiving at the wireless communication module data from an activation device;

determining that the data comprises an instruction for the signalling device to change to an enabled mode of the signalling device; and

in response, enabling the light source.

34. A method as claimed in claim 33, further comprising the steps of:

receiving at the wireless communication module an identifier associated with the data,

wherein the step of determining that the data comprises an instruction for the signalling device to change to an enabled mode of the signalling device comprises, at least in part, determining that the received identifier is associated with the signalling device.

35. A method as claimed in any one of claims 33 to 34, wherein the wireless communication module receives the data according to any one of the following protocols:

proprietary RF communications; Bluetooth; Wi-Fi

( 802.11a, b, g, n etc.); ZigBee; and Z-Wave.

36. A method as claimed in any one of claims 33 to 35, wherein the controller unit comprises a processor

interfaced to the wireless communication module and the light source, and wherein the controller unit is

configured for determining that the data comprises an instruction for the signalling device to change to an enabled mode of the signalling device, and in response, the controller unit is configured to provide an

instruction to enable the light source.

37. A method as claimed in any one of claims 33 to 36, wherein the light source is one LED or a plurality of LEDs .

38. A method as claimed in any one of claims 33 to 37, further comprising the steps of:

determining that an end condition is satisfied after enablement of the light source; and

in response, disabling the light source.

39. A method as claimed in claim 38, wherein the end condition comprises at least one of: a predetermined elapsed time since enablement of the light source; a signal or signals produced by one or more sensors; and a communication from the activation device instructing that the signalling device should disable the light source.

40. A method as claimed in any one of claims 33 to 39, further comprising the step of:

41. A method as claimed in any one of claims 33 to 40, further comprising the step of:

communicating information to the activation device indicating a period of time that the light source was enabled .

42. A method as claimed in any one of claims 33 to 41, further comprising the step of: communicating information to the activation device indicating a cause of disablement of the light source.

43. A method as claimed in any one of claims 33 to 42, further comprising the steps of: receiving from the activation device configuration data; and

configuring operation of the signalling device based on the received configuration data.

44. A method as claimed in claim 43, wherein the

configuration data is selected from one or more of: light source brightness; light source colour; and light source operation mode .

45. A method as claimed in any one of claims 33 to 44, wherein the signalling device is a slave and the data is received from the activation device via another signalling device .

46. A method for enabling one of a plurality of

signalling devices, each signalling device comprising a controller unit interfaced to a light source and a wireless communication module, the method comprising the steps of:

receiving at the wireless communication module of each signalling device data from an activation device; one of the plurality of signalling devices

determining that the data comprises an instruction for it to change to an enabled mode and in response activating its light source; and

the, or each, remaining signalling device discarding the data.

47. A method as claimed in claim 46, further comprising the steps of:

configuring one of the plurality of signalling devices as a master; and

configuring the, or each, remaining signalling device as a slave; wherein each slave signalling device is configured to receive data from the activation device via the master.

48. A remote signalling system comprising an activation device and a plurality of signalling devices,

wherein the activation device comprises a wireless unit configured for communicating data wirelessly the signalling devices,

wherein each signalling device comprises a housing comprising a signalling module having a light source, a controller unit, and a wireless communication module interfaced to the controller unit,

each signalling device configured to:

receive at its wireless communication module data communicated wirelessly by the activation device; and

in response, determine that the data comprises an instruction for it to change to an enabled mode and to then activate its light source or determine that the data does not comprise an instruction for it to change to an enabled mode and to then discard the data.

49. A remote signalling system as claimed in claim 48, wherein each signalling device is further configured to: when currently in an enabled mode and in response to determining that the data does not comprise an instruction for it to change to an enabled mode, enter into a disabled mode.

50. A remote signalling system as claimed in any one of claims 48 and 49, wherein the activation device is in network communication with a database.

51. A remote signalling system as claimed in any one of claims 48 to 50, wherein the activation device is a portable computing device such as a smartphone having display interface configured for receiving an input from a user, the display interface enabling a user to specify a signalling device, and the activation device configured for communicating data in response to the user specifying the signalling device.

52. A remote signalling system as claimed in claim wherein the communicated data includes an identifie:

configured for identifying the specified signalling device .

53. A remote signalling system as claimed in either cla 51 or 52, wherein the display comprises an arrangement o icons, each associated with a signalling device, and the user specifies a signalling device by pressing on the display in a region of the associated icon.

54. A remote signalling system as claimed in any one o claims 48 to 53, wherein each signalling device informs the activation device of its presence through wireless communication .

55. A remote signalling system according to any one of claims 48 to 54, wherein each signalling device is a signalling device according to any one of claims 1 to 32.