WO2019077498A1

WO2019077498A1 - Smart device with light manipulator

Info

Publication number: WO2019077498A1
Application number: PCT/IB2018/058022
Authority: WO
Inventors: Thomas Serval
Original assignee: Tsus Sasu
Priority date: 2017-10-16
Filing date: 2018-10-16
Publication date: 2019-04-25

Abstract

A lighting system comprising a smart device (100) and a light manipulator (150). The light manipulator (150) can be attached to the screen of the smart device (100). Thereby, the smart device (100) can be transformed into a lamp or a smart light system. The light manipulator (150) can be configured to cover at least part of the screen (120) of the smart device (100) such that light emitted from the screen (120) must go through the shade material of the light manipulator (150). The shade material can have a variety of properties or characteristics to alter optical qualities of the light according to user preferences.

Description

SMART DEVICE WITH LIGHT MANIPULATOR

FIELD

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No.

62/573,045, filed October 16, 2017, titled "Smart Device with Light Manipulator", the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

[0002] The present invention is directed to the field of smart lighting systems.

BACKGROUND

[0003] The following description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0004] Devices with LED, OLED, LCD, and other similar screens exist. Currently, devices are configured to display images and text on their screens but conventional devices do not provide any real functionality to alter the light emitted from the screen. For example, conventional devices cannot be used as alternate light sources or projectors. Therefore, there is a need for systems or methods to alter the light emitted from a device according to user preferences.

[0005] Smart devices provide mechanisms to use the screen or a supplemental light source on the smart device as a flash light. However, the flash light functionality of conventional devices is not optimized for ambient lighting purposes. Therefore, there is a need for systems and methods to optimize a screen or the supplemental light source on the smart device for a variety of lighting purposes.

SUMMARY

[0006] The present disclosure provides for a lighting system. The lighting system can include a smart device and a light manipulator. The smart device can have a screen, a memory, and a control system. The memory can store a set of instructions which can be executed by the control system. Thereby, the control system can change a brightness and other chromatic qualities of light emitted from the screen. The light manipulator can be positioned near the screen and can alter optical characteristics of at least a portion of the light emitted from the screen.

[0007] In some examples, the lighting system can be a diffuser, a mirror, a lens, or paper. The lens can be convex or concave.

[0008] In some examples, the screen can be an OLED, an LED, or an LCD screen.

[0009] In some examples, the smart device can be a smart phone or a tablet.

[0010] In some examples, the lighting system can further include a base. The base can be connected to the light manipulator. The base can include a charging device that connects to the smart device.

[0011] In some examples, the smart device can include a flash light source. The flash light source can include an LED. The light manipulator can be configured so that it does not cover the flash light source.

[0012] In some examples, the light manipulator can include ground glass, Teflon, a holographic diffuser, a glass diffuser, a photopolymer, a diffractive diffuser, or a flash diffuser.

[0013] In some examples, the present disclosure can provide for a method of performing luminotherapy. The method can provide for the smart device as described earlier. The method can additionally provide for sending instructions to the control system of the smart device to cause the screen to emit artificial white wide-spectrum light.

[0014] In some examples, the present disclosure can provide for a second method of performing luminotherapy. The method can provide for the smart device as described earlier. The method can additionally provide for receiving audio data output from the microphone. The method can then provide for analyzing the audio data to separate the audio data into a first set of data related to a first person snoring and a second set of data related to a second person snoring.

[0015] In some examples of this second method, the separating can be based on a frequency of different portions of the audio data. [0016] In some examples of this second method, the first and second set of data can be analyzed to determine whether an intensity and frequency of the data relates to sleep apnea.

[0017] Another embodiment of the present disclosure provides for a lighting manipulator. The lighting manipulator can comprise a shade material and at least one coupling element. The shade material can cover at least a portion of a screen of a portable device. The shade material can emit light from the screen with altered characteristics. The at least one coupling element can couple the light manipulator to the portable device.

[0018] In some examples, the shade material can include at least one of a mirror, optical diffuser, paper, colored filter, fiber optics, lens, and any combination thereof.

[0019] In some examples, the light manipulator can further include at least one opening. The at least one opening can correspond to a feature of the portable device. The feature of the portable device can include a headset jack opening, a power cord opening, a sleep/wake button, a ring/silent switch, and a volume button.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, exemplify the embodiments of the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain and illustrate principles of the invention. The drawings are intended to illustrate major features of the exemplary embodiments in a diagrammatic manner. The drawings are not intended to depict every feature of actual embodiments nor relative dimensions of the depicted elements, and are not drawn to scale.

[0021] FIG. 1 depicts an example of a perspective view of a smart lighting system;

[0022] FIG. 2 depicts an example of a side view of a smart lighting system;

[0023] FIG. 3 depicts an example of a side view of a smart lighting system;

[0024] FIG. 4 depicts an example of a side view of a smart lighting system;

[0025] FIG. 5 depicts an example of a perspective view of a smart lighting system; [0026] FIG. 6 depicts an example of a side view of a smart lighting system;

[0027] FIG. 7 depicts an example of a perspective view of a smart lighting system;

[0028] FIG. 8 depicts an example of a perspective view of a smart lighting system for projection on a wall or ceiling;

[0029] FIG. 9A depicts an example of a side view of a smart lighting system that includes a book page light manipulator;

[0030] FIG. 9B depicts an example of a perspective view of a smart lighting system that includes a book page light manipulator;

[0031] FIG. 10 depicts an example of a perspective view of a smart lighting system;

[0032] FIG. 11 depicts an example of a perspective view of a smart lighting system with a globe configuration;

[0033] FIG. 12 depicts an example of a perspective view of a smart lighting system with additional lamps installed in the base;

[0034] FIG. 13 depicts an example of a perspective view of a smart lighting system with a globe shaped cage with paper mounted on the cage;

[0035] FIGs. 14A-14B depict an example of a perspective view of a smart lighting system with light manipulator curved around a base;

[0036] FIGs. 15A-15B depict an exemplary smart lighting system with a tubular light manipulator;

[0037] FIG. 16 depicts an exemplary smart lighting system with a sleeved light manipulator;

[0038] FIGs. 17A-17B depict an exemplary smart lighting system with a semicircular light manipulator;

[0039] FIG. 18 depicts an exemplary smart lighting system with a folded light manipulator; [0040] FIGs. 19A-19B depict an exemplary smart lighting system with a foldable, domed light manipulator; and

[0041] FIGs. 20A-20B depict an exemplary smart lighting system with a single shade light manipulator.

[0042] In the drawings, the same reference numbers and any acronyms identify elements or acts with the same or similar structure or functionality for ease of understanding and convenience. To easily identify the discussion of any particular element or act, the most significant digit or digits in a reference number refer to the Figure number in which that element is first introduced.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] In some embodiments, properties such as dimensions, shapes, relative positions, and so forth, used to describe and claim certain embodiments of the invention are to be understood as being modified by the term "about."

[0044] Various examples of the invention will now be described. The following description provides specific details for a thorough understanding and enabling description of these examples. One skilled in the relevant art will understand, however, that the invention may be practiced without many of these details. Likewise, one skilled in the relevant art will also understand that the invention can include many other obvious features not described in detail herein. Additionally, some well-known structures or functions may not be shown or described in detail below, so as to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the relevant description.

[0045] The terminology used below is to be interpreted in its broadest reasonable manner, even though it is being used in conjunction with a detailed description of certain specific examples of the invention. Indeed, certain terms may even be emphasized below; however, any terminology intended to be interpreted in any restricted manner will be overtly and specifically defined as such in this Detailed Description section.

[0046] While this specification contains many specific implementation details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of any inventions or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular implementations of particular inventions. Certain features that are described in this specification in the context of separate implementations can also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a sub—combination or variation of a sub-combination.

[0047] Similarly, while operations may be depicted in the drawings in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring that such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that all illustrated operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. In certain circumstances, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Moreover, the separation of various system components in the implementations described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all implementations, and it should be understood that the described program components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single software product or packaged into multiple software products.

Overview

[0048] It has been discovered that by attaching a light manipulator to the screen of a smart device, that the smart device can be transformed into a lamp or other ambient lighting or smart light system. An exemplary light manipulator can comprise a shade material and at least one coupling element. The shade material can be sized and shaped to cover at least part of the screen such that light emitted from the screen must go through the shade material. The shade material can have a variety of properties or characteristics to alter optical qualities of the light according to user preferences. For example, various embodiments of the present disclosure can provide for a shade material with a mirror, an optical diffuser, a lens, or a colored filter. According to these various embodiments, the light manipulator can be used as a projector, an ambient light source, or an enlarged display. Additional, non-limiting advantages are disclosed below.

[0049] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of such a smart light system. An exemplary smart light system can include a smart device 100 with a screen 120 and a light manipulator 150 attached to the device 100. In some examples, the light manipulator 150 is positioned such that the light from the screen 120 passes through the light manipulator 150 before exiting into the ambient surroundings.

[0050] The light manipulator 150 can be a curved dome (pictured) or a cubic structure

(not pictured) fully encompassing the smart device 100. This allows the light manipulator 150 to capture all emitted light from the smart device 100. When passing through the light manipulator 150, the emitted light can be altered according to structural properties of a material of the light manipulator 150. Therefore, the light manipulator 150 can yield altered light. For example, if the material of the light manipulator 150 is a colored filter or some type of paper, the light manipulator 150 can change a color or a brightness of the emitted light. Exemplary, non-limiting materials of the light manipulator 150 can include ground glass, Teflon, a holographic diffuser, glass diffuser, a photopolymer, diffractive or a flash diffuser, a convex or concave lens, a mirror, paper, colored filter, and any similar materials or combinations thereof. These materials can comprise the shade material of light manipulator 150. Various combinations and advantages are discussed subsequently with respect to FIGs. 3-13.

[0051] Although FIG. 1 shows the light manipulator 150 completely covering the smart device 100, some embodiments of the present disclosure can provide for a light manipulator 150 which does not cover the entirety of the smart device 100. For example, some smart devices 100 can include a light source on a front part of the smart device 100. Such a light source can be an LED. In some instances, the light manipulator can be configured such that it does not cover the LED.

[0052] The smart device 100 may be a smart phone with a variety of screens, including an OLED, LCD, LED, or other screens. The smart device 100 may be a smart phone, iPad, tablet computer, or other device with a similar screen 120. In some examples, the smart device 100 may be a smart TV. In some examples, the smart device 100 may have a variety of sensors, including a proximity sensor, a microphone, various cameras, an infrared sensor, and other sensors.

[0053] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the light manipulator 150 may connect in a variety of ways to the smart device 100, including a mechanical or magnetic attachment. For instance, the light manipulator 150 may contain tabs 220 that snap onto the corners of the smart device 100. In other examples, it may simply fit over the smart device 100, or completely cover the smart device 100 on a table. In some examples, the smart device 100 may fit completely inside of the light manipulator 150, such as in the example of a sleeve. In other examples, tabs 220 can be clasps, elastic pieces, male and female connectors, and other similar components.

[0054] FIG. 3 shows the smart lighting system of FIGs. 1-2 with an optional base 180 attached to the lighting system. For example, the base 180 can be connected to the light manipulator 150 and can include a charging device. The charging device can be configured to couple to the smart device 100, for example, to a charging port of the smart device 100 (not pictured).

[0055] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the light manipulator 150 may rest on or attach to a base 170. In some examples, the base 170 may include a wireless charger 190 paired with a wireless charger (e.g. inductive charging) 190 in a smart device 100. In some examples, the base 170 may connect to the manipulator 150 though a magnetic connection, mechanical connection, or other types of connections known in the art.

[0056] In other examples, the base 170 can simply be a stand configured to support smart device 100 and secure an attachment between light manipulator 150 and smart device 100. The base 170 can additionally be angled to provide a particular viewing angle of the altered light.

Light Manipulator

[0057] The light manipulator 150 may be any number of mechanical, optical, or electrical structures that change the optical quality of the light emitted from the screen 120 into the ambient environment. For instance, the light manipulator 150 may be a diffuser that diffuses light coming out of the screen 120 of the smart device 100. This may allow the light manipulator 150 to be turned into a lamp, with the screen 120 being able to turn a variety of colors.

[0058] In some examples, the light manipulator 150 may include various visual filters, such as a blue filter for night time light. In other examples, the light manipulator 150 may contain fiber optics to project the image onto the surface of the light manipulator 150— for instance a flat or angled surface for easy bedside viewing. In some examples, the light manipulator 150 can further include a mirror to change an angle of an image from the smart device 100. This is discussed further with respect to FIG. 5-6.

[0059] In some examples, the light manipulator 150 may contain magnification for concentrating parts of the light in certain spots. This magnification can occur through one or more lenses in the light manipulator 150.

[0060] In some examples, the light manipulator 150 may include electrical base optical manipulation to block light or partially block light in certain positions. In some examples, the light manipulator may be made out of paper similar to a Chinese lantern.

Mirror Embodiments

[0061] In some examples, the light manipulator 150 may include mirrors and/or fiber optics to change the angle of projection, or enlarge the projection. For instance, FIG. 5 illustrates an example of a smart device 100 where light from the screen 120 is reflected off of a mirror 500 and then is projected on a diffuser 510 that displays what is on the screen 120. In some examples, fiber optics may carry the light to the mirrors 500, or change the direction of the light so that it may be displayed at a more convenient viewing angle.

[0062] FIG. 6 illustrates a side view of a periscope like embodiment that includes two mirrors 500 that direct the light from the smart device 100 to the eye. In some examples, the light manipulator 150 may also include lenses that project the image onto a wall. In some examples, a combination of mirrors, fiber optics and lenses may project the image from the screen 120 directly into the wall.

[0063] FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a light manipulator with an opening 700 for insertion of a finger to turn the smart device 100 on and off, or perform other controls. This opening 700 could be multiple openings on different sides. The one or more openings can correspond to features of the smart device 100 (not pictured). For example, the openings can correspond to a headset jack opening, a power cord opening, a sleep/wake button, a ring/silent switch, a volume button, or any other features of the smart device 100.

[0064] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of an embodiment that would project the image or colors on the phone on the ceiling or other walls. Therefore, the smart light system can be used as a projector. For instance, the light manipulator may incorporate an adjustable lens 800 for focusing the image or other graphical representation emitted from the screen 120 on the wall or ceiling. In some examples, this may be combined with mirrors 500 to redirect the image to side walls or in other directions. For example, such an embodiment can be used to display the time for an alarm clock or view content from the smart device 100 on a larger surface.

[0065] In some examples, such as FIGS. 9 A - 9B, the smart device 100 may fit into a sleeve that is part of the light manipulator 150. In this example, the light manipulator 150 may have a diffuser shaped like pages that look like an open book. In some examples, the light manipulator may include a charging port 1200 on the side.

[0066] FIG. 10 depicts a perspective view of the smart light system where the light manipulator 150 is in a cubic shape. In some examples, a top portion and corner portions of the light manipulator 150 can comprise mirrors. This allows emitted light from the smart device 100 to be redirected through side portions of the light manipulator 150. Therefore, light manipulator 150 provides an ambient lighting apparatus. In some examples, the side faces of light manipulator 150 can be constructed from opaque material or colored filters to further influence a brightness and color of the altered light. FIG. 10 illustrates a light manipulator 150 which can be easily placed over a smart device 100 for convenient use by a user. Such a light manipulator 150 would not need to be coupled to the smart device 100.

[0067] FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a globe embodiment that includes a smart device 100 plugged into a charger on a base that is surrounded by a globe shaped (or square, rectangle, pyramid, or other shapes) light manipulator 150. This allows light to be diffused throughout the globe and light manipulator more evenly throughout, which may allow for more even and total ambient illumination. Light manipulator 150 can be made of a solitary material or a combination of materials in accordance with a user's preferences. For example, a light manipulator 150 with a higher opacity can lower a brightness of the smart device 100 while a light manipulator 150 with a lower opacity can allow full brightness of the smart device 100.

[0068] FIG. 12 illustrates an example of an embodiment where the base 180 and/or the light manipulator 150 may include additional lights 1250. The additional lights may be controlled by the smart device 100 as well, for instance by a Bluetooth connection or other wired or wireless connection that is known. In some examples, only the base will include additional lights 1250 that will also be subject to the optical changes of the light manipulator 150. In other examples, the light manipulator 150 may include additional lights that are not optically changed by the light manipulator 150 because they are positioned along the surface.

[0069] FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a Chinese lantern like embodiment that includes a smart device 100 that is surrounded by a globe shaped (or square, rectangle, pyramid, or other shapes) light manipulator 150 that is in some examples surrounded by paper. In some examples, the light manipulator 150 may include a variety of ribs that horizontally or vertically oriented to form a frame, to which a base for the smart device 100 can be created. Then, paper or other similar light manipulator 150 may be attached to the frame to form a system that looks like a Chinese lantern (as shown in FIG. 13). This allows light to be diffused throughout the paper.

Additional Exemplary Smart Lighting Systems

[0070] FIGs. 14A-14B depict an example of a perspective view of a smart lighting system with light manipulator curved around a base. The light manipulator 150 can be a paper or fabric with a stiffness such that the light manipulator 150 curves into a dome when placed into a base 180. As shown in FIG. 14A, the smart lighting system can have openings on either end to allow a charging cable 1410 to charge the smart device 100 while the smart device 100 is in the smart lighting system. The smart device 100 can be propped against the base 180 and the light manipulator 150. In other examples, as shown in FIG. 14B, the base 180 can be elevated on one end to support the smart device 100.

[0071] FIGs. 15A-15B depict an exemplary smart lighting system with a tubular light manipulator. A smart lighting system according to FIGs. 15A and 15B can include a base 180 and a light manipulator 150. The light manipulator 150 can be in a tubular shape with openings on either end and a central opening. A smart device 100 can fit within the openings on the either end of the light manipulator 150 (as shown in FIG. 15B). The central opening can be configured to receive a base 180.

[0072] FIG. 16 depicts an exemplary smart lighting system with a sleeved light manipulator. A smart lighting system according to FIG. 16 can include a base 180 and a light manipulator 150. The base 180 can be configured to support a smart device 100 on its side. For example, the base can have ledges to prevent forwards or backwards movement of the smart device. The light manipulator 150 can be of a stretchy fabric which is configured to stretch around the base 180 and the smart device 100.

[0073] FIGs. 17A-17B depict an exemplary smart lighting system with a semicircular light manipulator. A smart lighting system according to FIGs. 17A-17B can include a base 180 and a light manipulator 150. The base 180 can be in a circular shape with a raised semi-circular component. The raised semi-circular component can support the light manipulator 150. The light manipulator 150 can be placed on the base 180. In some examples, the light manipulator 150 can have a circular bottom portion and a shade which pulls out of the circular bottom portion. Both the circular bottom portion of the base 180 and the light manipulator 150 can have an opening to allow a charging cable 1410 to charge the smart device 100 while the smart device 100 is in the smart lighting system.

[0074] FIG. 18 depicts an exemplary smart lighting system with a folded light manipulator. In some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG. 18, the light manipulator can be constructed as a sleeve 1810 configured to receive a smart device 100. A portion of the light manipulator 150 can be folded paper configured to extend between a first and second side of the sleeve 1810.

[0075] FIGs. 19A-19B depict an exemplary smart lighting system with a foldable, domed light manipulator. The light manipulator 150 can be in an oval or circular shape and can be sized to fit around a smart device 100. The light manipulator 150 can further have a folded configuration (shown in FIG. 19 A) or an extended position (shown in FIG. 19B). In the extended position (FIG. 19B), the light manipulator 150 can be a dome over the smart device 100. In some examples, the light manipulator 150 can have an opening configured to receive a charging cable 1410.

[0076] FIGs. 20A-20B depict an exemplary smart lighting system with a single shade light manipulator. In an exemplary smart lighting system as shown in FIGs. 20A-20B, a base 180 can have a pair of grooves. One groove can be configured to receive the smart device 100 and a second groove can be configured to receive the light manipulator 150. The smart device 100 can be placed such that a screen 120 faces the light manipulator 150.

[0077] Although a variety of exemplary smart lighting systems have been described above with respect to FIGs. 1-20B, the present disclosure is not limited to those embodiments. The present disclosure contemplates that any shape of lighting manipulator can be used so long as the lighting manipulator covers a screen 120 of a smart device 100.

Methods of Use

[0078] This system may be implemented for various methods, including for increasing ambient light in a cost effective manner (not requiring a separate smart bulb or lamp). Additionally, the smart light system can be used in locations without existing light fixtures or electrical outlets because the smart light system can provide a mechanical device to interact with a smart device 100.

[0079] In some examples, because the smart device 100 will be charging to the base through inductance or wired methods, the screen 120 can be displayed at maximum power.

[0080] In some examples, the smart light system can be configured through a smart phone application or other remote means. For example, a second device can connect to the smart device 100. The second device can control a brightness of the screen of the smart device 100 and can control what the screen of the smart device 100 displays. For example, if the smart light system is being used to project a movie or a timer, in accordance with FIGs. 5- 8, the second device can be used to control timing, audio, visuals, and other aspects of the smart device 100.

[0081] The smart device 100 can be controlled automatically, by an application, through a remote server or access through a remote computing device or control system that is linked by a network to the smart device 100. The light could be controlled through gestures captured by a front or back camera on the smart device. In some examples, the light manipulator 150 may include an orifice for the front facing camera or other access to that portion to allow the smart device 100 to detect gestures. For example, a user can wave at the smart device 100 to turn on or off the light. In some examples, the smart device 100 can be controlled using sound or voice commands to tell the smart device 100 to operate or cease operation of the light.

[0082] In other examples, an infrared sensor will detect motion at night which are gestures that turn the light on in complete darkness. [0083] In some examples, the smart light system can provide for a combination sound and lighting system. For example, the light from the smart light system can be synchronized with audio content playing from either speakers on the smart device 100 or speakers on the base 180. The combination sound and lighting system can be synchronized in how a user controls the system as well. In some cases, a unified gesture or voice command can turn on/off the both the sound and light. In other cases, unique gestures or voice command can be needed for operation of each of the sound and light.

Sleeping Applications

[0084] In some examples, the smart light system can be used to perform luminotherapy, such that the smart device 100 can become lighter or darker depending on ambient light using an ambient light sensor or timer. In some examples, this will help simulate natural sleeping and waking conditions. For example, the smart light system can simulate the rising and setting of the sun by emitting steadily increasing or steadily decreasing amounts. The smart light system can further simulate the wavelengths of sunrises and sunsets. For example, a red light can simulate the dusk while a white or blue light can simulate the morning. This simulation of natural lighting patterns can assist users in falling asleep and waking up, such that users have healthier sleep patterns.

[0085] Therefore, a smart device 100 can include a memory containing instructions and a control system. The control system can cause the screen to emit artificial white wide- spectrum light. The control system can emit the light based on data collected by the smart device 100, as discussed below.

[0086] In some examples, the microphone on the smart device 100 could record the sounds of snoring and diagnose sounds that sounded like sleep apnea. For instance, the pitch or intensity of snoring could be correlated to sleep apnea, or a spike in sound. Additionally, the system may be able to distinguish between two sleeping people, and tell their sounds apart by the frequency range. Additionally, the timing and continuity of the snoring may help in distinguish and parsing out the separate snoring of person 1 and person 2. A frequency and intensity of the data can further help distinguish the separate snoring of person 1 and person 2.

[0087] In some examples, a threshold intensity, or a threshold rate of decrease in intensity will indicate a subject has sleep apnea. [0088] Therefore, the smart device 100 can be configured to become lighter in response to a lower pitch or intensity of snoring, corresponding to when a user is beginning to naturally wake up. In other instances, the smart device 100 can be configured to become darker in response to a higher pitch or intensity of snoring, corresponding to when a user is beginning to naturally fall asleep.

Electromagnetic Field Blocking

[0089] In some examples, the light manipulator 150 can act as a Faraday shield, or any other material to block electromagnetic fields from the smart device 100. For example, the light manipulator 150 of FIGs. 1-4, 7, 10-11, and 13 can be made of a conductive material configured to prevent any radio waves or electromagnetic fields emitted by the smart device 100 from interfering with the user or the user's other devices.

[0090] An exemplary light manipulator 150 configured as a faraday shield or cage can be made from a heavy duty aluminum foil, metal, or a screen. Some examples of the light manipulator 150 can be made from a solid material to prevent any electromagnetic radiation from emitting. Other examples can be made from a mesh material which allows certain wavelengths to pass through the light manipulator 150. In some examples, the light manipulator 150 can be mechanically or electrically operated to vary the sizes of holes in the mesh material to allow desired wavelengths of light to pass through the light manipulator.

Computer & Hardware Implementation of Disclosure

[0091] It should initially be understood that the disclosure herein may be implemented with any type of hardware and/or software, and may be a pre-programmed general purpose computing device. For example, the system may be implemented using a server, a personal computer, a portable computer, a thin client, or any suitable device or devices. The disclosure and/or components thereof may be a single device at a single location, or multiple devices at a single, or multiple, locations that are connected together using any appropriate communication protocols over any communication medium such as electric cable, fiber optic cable, or in a wireless manner.

[0092] It should also be noted that the disclosure is illustrated and discussed herein as having a plurality of modules which perform particular functions. It should be understood that these modules are merely schematically illustrated based on their function for clarity purposes only, and do not necessary represent specific hardware or software. In this regard, these modules may be hardware and/or software implemented to substantially perform the particular functions discussed. Moreover, the modules may be combined together within the disclosure, or divided into additional modules based on the particular function desired. Thus, the disclosure should not be construed to limit the present invention, but merely be understood to illustrate one example implementation thereof.

[0093] The computing system can include clients and servers. A client and server are generally remote from each other and typically interact through a communication network. The relationship of client and server arises by virtue of computer programs running on the respective computers and having a client-server relationship to each other. In some implementations, a server transmits data (e.g., an HTML page) to a client device (e.g., for purposes of displaying data to and receiving user input from a user interacting with the client device). Data generated at the client device (e.g., a result of the user interaction) can be received from the client device at the server.

[0094] Implementations of the subject matter described in this specification can be implemented in a computing system that includes a back-end component, e.g., as a data server, or that includes a middleware component, e.g., an application server, or that includes a front-end component, e.g., a client computer having a graphical user interface or a Web browser through which a user can interact with an implementation of the subject matter described in this specification, or any combination of one or more such back-end, middleware, or front-end components. The components of the system can be interconnected by any form or medium of digital data communication, e.g., a communication network. Examples of communication networks include a local area network ("LAN") and a wide area network ("WAN"), an inter-network (e.g., the Internet), and peer-to-peer networks (e.g., ad hoc peer-to-peer networks).

[0095] Implementations of the subject matter and the operations described in this specification can be implemented in digital electronic circuitry, or in computer software, firmware, or hardware, including the structures disclosed in this specification and their structural equivalents, or in combinations of one or more of them. Implementations of the subject matter described in this specification can be implemented as one or more computer programs, i.e., one or more modules of computer program instructions, encoded on computer storage medium for execution by, or to control the operation of, data processing apparatus. Alternatively or in addition, the program instructions can be encoded on an artificially-generated propagated signal, e.g., a machine-generated electrical, optical, or electromagnetic signal that is generated to encode information for transmission to suitable receiver apparatus for execution by a data processing apparatus. A computer storage medium can be, or be included in, a computer-readable storage device, a computer-readable storage substrate, a random or serial access memory array or device, or a combination of one or more of them. Moreover, while a computer storage medium is not a propagated signal, a computer storage medium can be a source or destination of computer program instructions encoded in an artificially-generated propagated signal. The computer storage medium can also be, or be included in, one or more separate physical components or media (e.g., multiple CDs, disks, or other storage devices).

[0096] The operations described in this specification can be implemented as operations performed by a "data processing apparatus" on data stored on one or more computer-readable storage devices or received from other sources.

[0097] The term "data processing apparatus" encompasses all kinds of apparatus, devices, and machines for processing data, including by way of example a programmable processor, a computer, a system on a chip, or multiple ones, or combinations, of the foregoing The apparatus can include special purpose logic circuitry, e.g., an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit). The apparatus can also include, in addition to hardware, code that creates an execution environment for the computer program in question, e.g., code that constitutes processor firmware, a protocol stack, a database management system, an operating system, a cross-platform runtime environment, a virtual machine, or a combination of one or more of them. The apparatus and execution environment can realize various different computing model infrastructures, such as web services, distributed computing and grid computing infrastructures.

[0098] A computer program (also known as a program, software, software application, script, or code) can be written in any form of programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, declarative or procedural languages, and it can be deployed in any form, including as a stand-alone program or as a module, component, subroutine, object, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment. A computer program may, but need not, correspond to a file in a file system. A program can be stored in a portion of a file that holds other programs or data (e.g., one or more scripts stored in a markup language document), in a single file dedicated to the program in question, or in multiple coordinated files (e.g., files that store one or more modules, sub-programs, or portions of code). A computer program can be deployed to be executed on one computer or on multiple computers that are located at one site or distributed across multiple sites and interconnected by a communication network.

[0099] The processes and logic flows described in this specification can be performed by one or more programmable processors executing one or more computer programs to perform actions by operating on input data and generating output. The processes and logic flows can also be performed by, and apparatus can also be implemented as, special purpose logic circuitry, e.g., an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit).

[00100] Processors suitable for the execution of a computer program include, by way of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors, and any one or more processors of any kind of digital computer. Generally, a processor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory or a random access memory or both. The essential elements of a computer are a processor for performing actions in accordance with instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data. Generally, a computer will also include, or be operatively coupled to receive data from or transfer data to, or both, one or more mass storage devices for storing data, e.g., magnetic, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks. However, a computer need not have such devices. Moreover, a computer can be embedded in another device, e.g., a mobile telephone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a mobile audio or video player, a game console, a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver, or a portable storage device (e.g., a universal serial bus (USB) flash drive), to name just a few. Devices suitable for storing computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, media and memory devices, including by way of example semiconductor memory devices, e.g., EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices; magnetic disks, e.g., internal hard disks or removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks. The processor and the memory can be supplemented by, or incorporated in, special purpose logic circuitry.

CONCLUSION [00101] The various methods and techniques described above provide a number of ways to carry out the invention. Of course, it is to be understood that not necessarily all objectives or advantages described can be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment described herein. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the methods can be performed in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other objectives or advantages as taught or suggested herein. A variety of alternatives are mentioned herein. It is to be understood that some embodiments specifically include one, another, or several features, while others specifically exclude one, another, or several features, while still others mitigate a particular feature by inclusion of one, another, or several advantageous features.

[00102] Furthermore, the skilled artisan will recognize the applicability of various features from different embodiments. Similarly, the various elements, features and steps discussed above, as well as other known equivalents for each such element, feature or step, can be employed in various combinations by one of ordinary skill in this art to perform methods in accordance with the principles described herein. Among the various elements, features, and steps some will be specifically included and others specifically excluded in diverse embodiments.

[00103] Although the application has been disclosed in the context of certain embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments of the application extend beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses and modifications and equivalents thereof.

[00104] In some embodiments, the terms "a" and "an" and "the" and similar references used in the context of describing a particular embodiment of the application (especially in the context of certain of the following claims) can be construed to cover both the singular and the plural. The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (for example, "such as") provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the application and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the application otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be constated as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the application.

[00105] Certain embodiments of this application are described herein. Variations on those embodiments will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. It is contemplated that skilled artisans can employ such variations as appropriate, and the application can be practiced otherwise than specifically described herein. Accordingly, many embodiments of this application include all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the application unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

[00106] Particular implementations of the subject matter have been described. Other implementations are within the scope of the following claims. In some cases, the actions recited in the claims can be performed in a different order and still achieve desirable results. In addition, the processes depicted in the accompanying figures do not necessarily require the particular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve desirable results.

[00107] All patents, patent applications, publications of patent applications, and other material, such as articles, books, specifications, publications, documents, things, and/or the like, referenced herein are hereby incorporated herein by this reference in their entirety for all purposes, excepting any prosecution file history associated with same, any of same that is inconsistent with or in conflict with the present document, or any of same that may have a limiting affect as to the broadest scope of the claims now or later associated with the present document. By way of example, should there be any inconsistency or conflict between the description, definition, and/or the use of a term associated with any of the incorporated material and that associated with the present document, the description, definition, and/or the use of the term in the present document shall prevail.

[00108] In closing, it is to be understood that the embodiments of the application disclosed herein are illustrative of the principles of the embodiments of the application. Other modifications that can be employed can be within the scope of the application. Thus, by way of example, but not of limitation, alternative configurations of the embodiments of the application can be utilized in accordance with the teachings herein. Accordingly, embodiments of the present application are not limited to that precisely as shown and described.

Claims

1. A lighting system comprising:

a smart device comprising:

a screen;

a memory containing machine readable medium comprising machine executable code having stored thereon instructions;

a control system coupled to the memory comprising one or more processors, the control system configured to execute the machine executable code to cause the control system to change a brightness and chromatic qualities of light emitted from the screen; and

a light manipulator positioned near the screen to alter optical characteristics of at least a portion of the light emitted from the screen.

2. The lighting system of claim 1, wherein the light manipulator comprises at least one of a diffuser, a mirror, a lens, or paper.

3. The lighting system of claim 1, wherein the screen comprises an OLED, LED, or LCD screen.

4. The lighting system of claim 1 , wherein the smart device is a smart phone, or tablet.

5. The lighting system of claim 1, further comprising a base connected to the light manipulator, wherein the base comprises a charging device that connects to the smart device.

6. The lighting system of claim 1, wherein the smart device further comprises a light source comprising an LED and wherein the light manipulator does not cover the light source.

7. The lighting system of claim 1, wherein the light manipulator comprises ground glass, Teflon, a holographic diffuser, glass diffuser, a photopolymer, diffractive or a flash diffuser.

8. The lighting system of claim 1, wherein the light manipulator comprises a convex or concave lens.

9. A method of performing luminotherapy comprising:

providing the smart device of claim 1 ;

sending instructions to the control system to cause the screen to emit artificial white wide-spectrum light.

10. A method of performing luminotherapy comprising:

providing the smart device of claim 1 ;

receiving audio data output from the microphone;

analyzing the audio data to separate the audio data into a first set of data related to a first person snoring and a second set of data related to a second person snoring.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the separating the audio data into the first and second set of data is based on a frequency of different portions of the audio data.

12. The method of claim 10, wherein the first and second set of data are analyzed to determine whether an intensity and frequency of the data relate to sleep apnea.

13. A lighting manipulator, comprising:

a shade material, wherein the shade material is configured to cover at least a portion of a screen of a portable device and to emit light from the screen with altered characteristics; and at least one coupling element, wherein the at least one coupling element couples the light manipulator to the portable device.

14. The light manipulator of claim 13, wherein the shade material comprises at least one of a mirror, optical diffuser, paper, colored filter, fiber optics, lens, and any combination thereof.

15. The light manipulator of claim 13, wherein the light manipulator further comprises at least one opening, wherein the at least one opening corresponds to a feature of the portable device, wherein the feature comprises at least one of a headset jack opening, a power cord opening, a sleep/wake button, a ring/silent switch, and a volume button.