Patent Description:
In modern production environments and warehouses, it is increasingly desirable for human operators to be able to record data and to control electronic devices in a "hands-free" mode, typically via speech control. This typically entails the use of portable electronic voice-processing devices which can detect human speech, interpret the speech, and process the speech to recognize words, to record data, and/or to control nearby electronic systems. <INSERT PAGE 1a HERE>.

The following presents a simplified summary to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of embodiments described herein. This summary is not an extensive overview and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements nor delineate the scope of such elements. Its purpose is to present some concepts of the described features in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later. Specific embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

Various examples described herein relate to a method facilitating picking of an incoming call on a first device. The method includes receiving, by a processor of a wearable electronic device, a first message indicative of an initiation of an event on a first device. The first device is communicably coupled to a second device and the second device is communicatively coupled to the wearable electronic device. Further, the method includes pausing, by the processor, a workflow operation executing on at least one of the second device and the wearable electronic device. Furthermore, the method
Reference may be made to any of:.

includes receiving, by the processor, a first disconnection request from the second device. The first disconnection request can relate to termination of a first connection between the wearable electronic device and the second device. Furthermore, the method includes in response to receiving the first disconnection request, sending, by the processor, a first connection request to the first device to communicatively couple the wearable electronic device with the first device. Furthermore, the method includes receiving, by the processor, a second message indicative of completion of the event on the first device. Furthermore, the method includes receiving, by the processor, a second disconnection request from the first device. The second disconnection request can relate to termination of a second connection between the wearable electronic device and the first device. Further, the method includes sending, by the processor, a second connection request to communicatively couple the wearable electronic device to the second device. Furthermore, the method includes resuming the workflow operation on at least one of the second device and the wearable electronic device.

According to some examples, the method includes transmitting, by a processor of a work device, a workflow execution command to a first device communicatively coupled to the work device. The workflow execution command is to output a task to a user for execution of a workflow. Further, the method includes receiving at the work device, a first message indicative of occurrence of an event on a second device communicatively coupled to the work device. Furthermore, the method includes sending, by the processor, a first request to the first device indicating termination of a first connection with the work device. In this regards, the first request is sent in response to occurrence of an event on the second device. Further, the method includes terminating, by the processor, the first connection of the first device with the work device. Furthermore, the method includes sending, by the processor, a second request to communicatively couple the first device to the second device. The method further includes receiving, by the processor, a second message indicative of completion of the event on the second device. Furthermore, the method includes terminating, by the processor, a second connection of the first device with the second device.

A device is described in some examples. The device includes a memory to store computer-executable instructions and a processor, that performs operations in response to executing the computer-executable instructions. The operations can include receiving a first message indicative of occurrence of an event on a first device. The first device can communicatively couple to a second device and the second device can communicatively couple to a wearable electronic device. In this regard, the event corresponds to an incoming call request on the first device. Further, the operations can include pausing a workflow operation executing on at least one of the second device and the wearable electronic device. Furthermore, the operations can include receiving a first disconnection request from the second device. The first disconnection request can relate to termination of a first connection between the wearable electronic device and the second device. Furthermore, the operations can include in response to receiving the first disconnection request, sending a first connection request to the first device to communicatively couple the wearable electronic device with the first device. Further, the operations can include receiving a second message indicative of completion of the event on the first device. Furthermore, the operations can include receiving a second disconnection request from the first device. The second disconnection request can relate to termination of a second connection of the wearable electronic device with the first device. The operations further can include sending a second connection request to communicatively couple the wearable electronic device to the second device. Furthermore, the operations can include resuming the workflow operation on at least one of the second device and the wearable electronic device.

The above summary is provided merely for purposes of providing a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the above-described examples are merely examples and should not be construed to narrow the scope of the disclosure in any way. It will be appreciated that the scope of the disclosure encompasses many potential embodiments in addition to those here summarized, some of which will be further described below.

Indeed, the disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. The terms "or" and "optionally" are used herein in both the alternative and conjunctive sense, unless otherwise indicated. The terms "illustrative" and "exemplary" are used to be examples with no indication of quality level.

The components illustrated in the figures represent components that may or may not be present in various embodiments of the disclosure described herein such that embodiments may comprise fewer or more components than those shown in the figures while not departing from the scope of the disclosure.

Generally, in a work environment, it can be desirable to notify a worker about an incoming call on a worker's personal device. In an example embodiment, the worker might be performing a workflow operation utilizing a wearable electronic device and a mobile device (for example, a handheld computer). The on-going workflow execution is paused in response to occurrence of an event (for example, an incoming call) on the worker's personal phone. A connection between a wearable electronic device worn by the worker and the mobile device can be temporarily terminated to establish a connection between the wearable electronic device and the worker's personal device. Once the call has been completed on the personal device, the workflow execution is resumed from the point where it was paused.

In an example (e.g. in material handling environment) it can be desirable to notify the worker about an incoming call event on personal device and thereby facilitate a hands free picking of the incoming call. The worker, who may be working in a harsh industrial environment or other demanding environment, might need to concentrate on an allocated task without any interruption. However, in response to receiving a call, the worker might get an urge to pick up the call that in turn could cause a dangerous situation. For example, a worker could be performing a task that can comprise climbing a ladder. The worker's hands can be engaged in holding the ladder. If an incoming call event occurs on the worker's personal device, the worker's attention can be disrupted, leading to the worker slipping or falling. Therefore, the present disclosure can provide an efficient method of providing a safe working environment and thereby facilitate the worker accepting or rejecting incoming calls based on voice commands. Further, the worker might not need to pick up the call manually using hands. Details of various example embodiments for generating the alerts, are described in reference to <FIG> hereinafter.

The term "electronic device" used hereinafter refers to any or all of, handheld devices, mobile phones, wearable devices, personal data assistants (PDAs), tablet computers, smart books, palm-top computers, barcode readers, scanners, indicia readers, imagers, Radio-frequency identification (RFID readers or interrogators), vehicle-mounted computers, wearable barcode scanners, wearable indicia readers, a point of sale (POS) terminal, headset devices, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), programmable automation controllers (PACs), industrial computers, laptop computers, desktop computers, personal computers, and similar electronic devices equipped with at least a processor configured to perform the various operations described herein.

The various embodiments are described herein using the term "computing platform" or
"master device" used interchangeably for the purpose of brevity. The term "computing platform" can be used herein to refer to any computing device or a distributed network of computing device capable of functioning as a server, such as a master exchange server, web server, mail server, document server, or any other type of server. A computing platform may be a dedicated computing device or a computing device including a server module (e.g., running an application which may cause the computing device to operate as a server). A server module (e.g., server application) may be a full function server module, or a light or secondary server module (e.g., light or secondary server application) that is configured to provide synchronization services among the dynamic databases on computing devices. A light server or secondary server may be a slimmed-down version of server type functionality that can be implemented on a computing device, such as a smartphone, thereby enabling it to function as an Internet server (e.g., an enterprise e-mail server) only to the extent necessary to provide the functionality described herein.

In some example embodiments, the computing platform may correspond to any of, an industrial computer, a cloud computing-based platform, an external computer, a standalone computing device, and/or the like. In some example embodiments, the master device or the computing platform, can also refer to any of the electronic devices, as described herein. In some example embodiments, the computing platform may include an access point or a gateway device that can be capable of communicating directly with one or more electronic devices and can also be capable of communicating (either directly or alternatively indirectly via a communication network such as the Internet) with a network establishment service (e.g. Internet service provider). In some example embodiments, the computing platform can refer to a server system that can manage the deployment of one or more electronic devices throughout a physical environment. In some example embodiments, the computing platform may refer to a network establishment service including distributed systems where multiple operations are performed by utilizing multiple computing resources deployed over a network and/or a cloud-based platform or cloud-based services, such as any of a software-based service (SaaS), infrastructure-based service (IaaS) or platform-based service (PaaS) and/or like.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated is a workflow performance system <NUM> including an example network architecture for a system, which may include one or more devices and subsystems that can be configured to implement some embodiments discussed herein. For example, workflow performance system <NUM> can include server <NUM>, which can include, for example, the circuitry disclosed in <FIG>, a server, or database, among other things (not shown). The server <NUM> may include any suitable network server and/or other type of processing device. In some embodiments, the server <NUM> may receive requests and transmit information or indications regarding such requests to operator devices <NUM>-103N and/or one or more supervisor devices <NUM>. The operator devices <NUM>-103N referred herein can correspond to electronic devices that may be used by operators (e.g. workers) in a work environment while performing various tasks. Further, the supervisor devices <NUM> referred herein can correspond to electronic devices used by a supervisor of the operators in the work environment. In an example, the work environment can correspond to a warehouse or inventory and the supervisor can be a warehouse manager.

In some example embodiments, the server <NUM> can communicate with one or more operator devices <NUM>-103N and/or one or more supervisor devices <NUM> via network <NUM>. In this regard, network <NUM> may include any wired or wireless communication network including, for example, a wired or wireless local area network (LAN), personal area network (PAN), metropolitan area network (MAN), wide area network (WAN), or the like, as well as any hardware, software and/or firmware required to implement it (such as, e.g., network routers, etc.). For example, network <NUM> may include a cellular telephone, an <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or WiMax network. In some embodiments, Bluetooth may be used to communicate between devices. Further, the network <NUM> may include a public network, such as the Internet, a private network, such as an intranet, or combinations thereof, and may utilize a variety of networking protocols now available or later developed including, but not limited to TCP/IP based networking protocols.

In some example embodiments, the network <NUM> can include, but are not limited to, a Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) network, a Piconet, a Personal Area Network (PAN), Zigbee, and a Scatternet. In some examples, the network <NUM> can correspond to a short-range wireless network through which the operator devices <NUM>-103N can communicate with each other using one or more communication protocols such as, but are not limited to, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Bluetooth low energy (BLE), Zigbee, Ultrasonic frequency based network, and Z-Wave. In some examples, the network <NUM> can correspond to a network in which the plurality of electronic devices can communicate with each other using other various wired and wireless communication protocols such as Transmission Control Protocol and Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), User Datagram Protocol (UDP), and <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> communication protocols. In some examples, the network <NUM> can correspond to any communication network such as, but not limited to, LORA, cellular (NB IoT, LTE-M, Leaky Feeder Coax, etc.).

In some example embodiments, the operator devices <NUM>-103N, supervisor device <NUM>, and/or server <NUM> may each be implemented as a computing device, such as a personal computer and/or other networked device, such as a cellular phone, tablet computer, mobile device, point of sale terminal, inventory management terminal etc. The depiction in <FIG> of "N" members is merely for illustration purposes. Further, while only one supervisor device <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG>, in some embodiments, multiple or a plurality of supervisor device <NUM> may be connected in the system. Furthermore, any number of users, operator devices and/or supervisor devices may be included in the workflow performance system <NUM>. In one embodiment, the operator devices <NUM>-103N and/or supervisor devices <NUM> may be configured to display an interface on a display of the respective device for viewing, creating, editing, and/or otherwise interacting with the server. According to some embodiments, the server <NUM> may be configured to display the interface on a display of the server <NUM> for viewing, creating, editing, and/or otherwise interacting with information on the server <NUM>. In some embodiments, an interface of operator devices <NUM>-103N and/or supervisor device <NUM> may be different from an interface of a server <NUM>. Various components of the present system may be performed on one or more of the operator devices 103103N, supervisor device <NUM>, or server <NUM>. Workflow performance system <NUM> may also include additional client devices and/or servers, among other things.

According to some example embodiments, the operator devices <NUM>-103N can include, for example, but not limited to, an electronic device <NUM> (e.g. a mobile device, a PDA etc.) and a voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> (e.g. a headset device, a wearable head mounting device etc.). In this regard, an operator in the work environment can use the electronic device <NUM> and/or the voicecontrolled apparatus <NUM> to perform one or more operations in the work environment. For instance, in some example embodiments, the operator devices <NUM>-103N can be used by operators to execute a workflow operation that can include one or more tasks. In this regard, in some examples, the workflow operation can include a sequence or series of steps to be performed by the operator. In some example embodiments, one or more steps of the workflow operation can be provided in form of voice directed instructions or graphical user interface (GUI) based instructions to the operators on the operator devices <NUM>-103N.

As an example, in a work environment (e.g. a warehouse, an industrial environment, a distribution center, etc.), an operator can use the electronic device <NUM> that can be preconfigured with an application (e.g. a mobile application) to execute a workflow operation. For instance, in some examples, the operators can use these devices (i.e. the operator devices <NUM>-103N, electronic devices, for example, <NUM>) for automatic identification and data capturing of information and to improve productivity in the work environment. In some examples, the application can be used to execute various steps of the workflow operation. According to some example embodiments, the application can be installed on at least one of the electronic device <NUM> and the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> and can be used to generate instructions for the operators at each step of the workflow operation. These instructions can be provided on the electronic device <NUM> and/or the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM>.

According to some example embodiments, the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> can be used to provide instructions to the operators in form of `voice prompts' to perform various activities in the work environment. For instance, in an example, for a picking workflow operation, the operators can be provided instructions in form of voice prompts on the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> for picking various items in an inventory. The voice prompts in such case may include instructions for the operators, like, but not limited to, `reach to a location of the inventory', `confirm a check-digit associated with the location', 'identify an item from amongst several item', `confirm a stockkeeping unit (SKU) associated with the item', `pick the item', `move to next location', and so on. Further, in some example embodiments, the electronic device <NUM> can be configured to provide instructions to the operators in visual form i.e. instructions that can be displayed on a GUI of the electronic device <NUM>. Accordingly, the operators can perform a step of the workflow operation based on instructions provided in the voice prompt and/or visual prompt. Further, the electronic device <NUM> and/or the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> can be configured to receive operator's response to the instructions. For instance, as the operators perform the task, the operators can provide a `voice response' and/or a GUI input based response on the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> and/or the electronic device <NUM>, respectively.

Illustratively, the operator devices <NUM>-103N can be communicatively coupled over the network <NUM>. Similarly, in accordance with some example embodiments, the electronic device <NUM> can be communicatively coupled to the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> via the network <NUM>. As an example, the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> can be communicatively coupled to the electronic device <NUM> over a Bluetooth communication based network. In this regard, the electronic device <NUM> can exchange data and various commands with the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> using the Bluetooth network.

In some examples, voice-based instructions and visual-based instructions of the task of the workflow can be provided simultaneously on the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> and the electronic device <NUM>, respectively. In this regard, a state of execution of workflow on the electronic device <NUM> and/or the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> can be synchronized such that, either of a voice response and/or a GUI based input can be provided by the operator in response to the voice prompt and/or visual instruction for a same step of workflow operation to cause the workflow operation to move to a next state on both the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> and the electronic device <NUM>.

According to some example embodiments, the operator devices <NUM>-103N can receive a file including one or more workflows that are to be executed on the operator device <NUM>-103N. In this regard, according to some example embodiments, a workflow operation can be executed on the operator devices <NUM>-103N (e.g., the electronic device <NUM> and/or the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM>) based on exchange of messages between the devices. In some example embodiments, the operator devices <NUM>-103N can receive the file including the one or more workflows from the server <NUM>.

According to some example embodiments, the electronic device <NUM>, the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM>, the operator devices <NUM>-103N, supervisor device <NUM>, and/or server <NUM> may include one or more input devices, including but not limited to a keyboard, a number pad, a mouse, a touch-sensitive display, a navigation key, a function key, a microphone, a voice recognition component, any other mechanism capable of receiving an input from a user, or any combination thereof. Further, the operator devices <NUM>-103N, supervisor device <NUM>, and/or server <NUM> may include one or more output devices, including but not limited to a display, a speaker, a haptic feedback mechanism, a printer, lights, any other mechanism capable of presenting an output to a user, or any combination thereof.

The operator devices <NUM>-103N, supervisor device <NUM>, and/or server <NUM> may include components for monitoring and/or collecting information regarding the user or external environment in which the component is placed. For instance, the operator devices <NUM>-103N, supervisor device <NUM>, and/or server <NUM> may include sensors, scanners, and/or other monitoring components. In some embodiments, scanners may be used to determine the presence of certain individuals or items. For example, in some embodiments, the components may include a scanner, such as an optical scanner, RFID scanner, and/or other scanner configured to read human and/or machine readable indicia physically associated with an item.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> according to an example embodiment. In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> can correspond to a headset that can include a wireless enabled voice recognition device that utilizes a hands-free profile.

In accordance with some example embodiments, the headset may be substantially similar to the headset disclosed in <CIT>, <CIT>, and <CIT>.

In accordance with an example embodiment, as illustrated, the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> can include an electronic module <NUM>. In this embodiment, some elements can be incorporated into an electronics module <NUM> rather than the headset <NUM>, to provide a long battery life consistent with long work shifts. As an example, one or more components of circuitry <NUM> may be incorporated in the electronic module <NUM> and/or the headset <NUM>. In some example embodiments, the electronics module <NUM> can be remotely coupled to a light-weight and comfortable headset <NUM> secured to a worker head via a headband <NUM>. In some example embodiments, the headband <NUM> can be a band that is designed to fit on a worker's head, in an ear, over an ear, or otherwise designed to support the headset. The headset <NUM> can include one or more speakers <NUM> and can further include one or more microphones. For instance, in the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, the headset <NUM> includes microphones <NUM>, <NUM>. According to some example embodiments, the microphone <NUM> can provide noise cancellation by continuously listening to and blocking environmental sounds to enhance voice recognition and optionally provide for noise cancellation. In some embodiments (not shown), the electronics module <NUM> can be integrated into the headset <NUM> rather than being remotely coupled to the headset <NUM>. Various configurations of the voicecontrolled apparatus <NUM> can be used without deviating from the intent of the present disclosure.

In some example embodiments, the electronics module <NUM> can be used to offload several components of the headset <NUM> to reduce the weight of the headset <NUM>. In some embodiments, one or more of a rechargeable or long life battery, display, keypad, Bluetooth® antenna, and printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) electronics can be included in the electronics module <NUM> and/or otherwise incorporated into the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM>.

In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, the headset <NUM> can be coupled to the electronics module <NUM> via a communication link such as a small audio cable <NUM> but could instead communicate with the electronics module <NUM> via a wireless link. In an example embodiment, the headset <NUM> can be of a low profile. For instance, headset <NUM> can be minimalistic in appearance in some embodiments, such as a Bluetooth earpiece/headphone.

According to some example embodiments the electronics module <NUM> can be configured to be used with various types of headsets <NUM>. In some example embodiments, the electronics module <NUM> can read a unique identifier (I. ) of the headset <NUM>, which can be stored in the circuitry of the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> (e.g., the circuitry <NUM>) and can also be used to electronically couple the speakers and microphones to electronics module <NUM>. In one embodiment, the audio cable <NUM> can includes multiple conductors or communication lines for signals which can include a speaker +, speaker -, ground digital, microphone, secondary microphone, and microphone ground. In some examples, the electronics module <NUM> can utilize a user configurable attachment <NUM>, such as a plastic loop, to attach to a user. For instance, in the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, the electronics module <NUM> can be mounted to a worker torso via a lapel clip and/or lanyard. When a wireless link between the headset <NUM> and electronics module <NUM> is used, such as a Bluetooth type of communication link, the headset <NUM> can include a small lightweight battery. The communication link can provide wireless signals suitable for exchanging voice communications.

In some embodiments, voice templates for performing a speaker dependent training of a speech recognition model can be stored locally in the electronic module <NUM> and/or the headset <NUM> as part of the circuitry <NUM> to recognize a user's voice interactions and may convert the interaction into text based data and commands for interaction with an application running in the circuitry <NUM>. For example, the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> can perform voice recognition in one embodiment utilizing the voice templates. According to some example embodiments, first few stages of voice recognition can be performed in the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM>, with further stages performed on a server <NUM>. In further embodiments, raw audio can be transmitted from voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> to the server <NUM> where the final stages of voice recognition can be completed. Alternatively, in some example embodiments, the voice recognition can be performed on the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary user device according to an example embodiment. In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, the user device is a handset <NUM> (e.g., a mobile device or tablet device). The handset <NUM> may include one or more components of circuitry as explained with regards to <FIG> and may include one or more of the components discussed with regards to the headset of <FIG> (e.g., voice templates, speech encoders, etc.). The handset <NUM> may include one or more microphones <NUM> and one or more speakers <NUM>, which may be connected to a set of headphones. The handset <NUM> can also include one or more antenna. The microphone <NUM> receives speech or sound and transmits the received speech and sound to one or more components of circuitry <NUM> (to be shown in <FIG>) in the handset <NUM>. The speakers <NUM> receive an audio transmission from one or more components of circuitry <NUM> in the handset <NUM> and output the audio transmission in the form of speech or sound. In an embodiment, the speakers <NUM> can also include noise cancellation. The handset <NUM> may connect with one or more other operator devices <NUM>-103N and/or server <NUM> as explained with regards to <FIG>. For instance, in some embodiments, the handset <NUM> may connect to a wireless headphone via a Bluetooth connection, where the wireless headphone includes a microphone and speaker for receiving speech and outputting speech or sound. The handset <NUM> can also include a user input device and output device (such as the display <NUM> forming an interface) to send and receive additional non-auditory information from circuitry <NUM>, whether incorporated into the handset <NUM> or in other operator devices <NUM>-103N and/or server <NUM>. The display <NUM> of <FIG> may be a backlit LCD or OLED display. With the use of a handset <NUM> having one or more microphones <NUM> and one or more speakers <NUM>, a user can communicate with a central server (e.g., server <NUM>) and/or with other user devices (e.g., operator devices <NUM>-103N).

In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, the user device also includes a sensor <NUM> configured to determine the location of the user device. The sensor <NUM> may include, but may not be limited to, a ground imaging sensor, an electro-optic sensor, a GPS receiver, accelerometer, and the like. In an embodiment, the sensor <NUM> may determine a location of the user by determining GPS coordinates of the operator devices <NUM>-103N and/or a vehicle. The sensor <NUM> may communication or interact with other components of the circuitry <NUM>, such as processor <NUM>, to determine whether the user is in transit, such as in transit to a desired location. The processor <NUM> may then interact with the display <NUM> to lock the display while the user is in transit or in motion. The processor <NUM> may also unlock the display <NUM> when the user is determined to not be in transit or in motion and/or has arrived at the desired location. One or more applications may be used to lock and unlock the display <NUM> depending on the status of the user and/or user device. In another embodiment, the current location of the user may be obtained based on a current time and by referring to a pre-determined delivery schedule. Alternatively, a current location of the user may be obtained from a completed workflow solution task. By way of an example, if a user completed a delivery a retail store, the user may update an associated workflow task as "Completed" or "Delivered. " This information may be used by the operator devices <NUM>-103N and/or the server <NUM> to identify the location of the retail store as a current location of the user.

Although <FIG> illustrates one example of a handheld device, various changes may be made to <FIG>. For example, all or portions of <FIG> may represent or be included in other handheld devices and/or vehicle communication devices and may be used in conjunction with a headset such as the headset of <FIG>. Also, the functional division shown in <FIG> is for illustration only. Various components could be combined, subdivided, or omitted and additional components could be added according to particular needs.

One suitable device for implementing the present disclosure may be the TALKMAN® product available from VOCOLLECT™ of Pittsburgh, Pa. In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, the user device uses a voice-driven system, which may use speech recognition technology for communication. In an embodiment, the user device may provide hands-free voice communication between the user and the user device. To that end, digital information may be converted to an audio format, and vice versa, to provide speech communication between the user device or an associated system and the user. In an example embodiment, the user device may contain digital instructions or receive digital instructions from a central computer and/or a server and may convert those instructions to audio to be heard by the user. The user may then reply, in a spoken language, and the audio reply or the speech input may be converted to a useable digital format to be transferred back to the central computer and/or the server. In other embodiments, the user device may operate independently, in an offline mode, such that speech digitization, recognition and/or synthesis for implementing a voice-driven workflow solution may be performed by the user device itself.

<FIG> shows a schematic block diagram of circuitry <NUM>, some or all of which may be included in, for example, the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM>, the electronic device <NUM>, the operator devices <NUM>-103N, the supervisor device <NUM>, and/or the server <NUM>. Any of the aforementioned systems or devices may include the circuitry <NUM> and may be configured to, either independently or jointly with other devices in a network <NUM> perform the functions of the circuitry <NUM> described herein. As illustrated in <FIG>, in accordance with some example embodiments, circuitry <NUM> can includes various means, such as memory <NUM>, communications module <NUM>, processor <NUM>, and/or input/output module <NUM>. In some embodiments, workflow database <NUM> and/or workflow system <NUM> may also or instead be included. As referred to herein, "module" includes hardware, software and/or firmware configured to perform one or more particular functions. In this regard, the means of circuitry <NUM> as described herein may be embodied as, for example, circuitry, hardware elements (e.g., a suitably programmed processor, combinational logic circuit, and/or the like), a computer program product comprising computer-readable program instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium (e.g., memory <NUM>) that is executable by a suitably configured processing device (e.g., processor <NUM>), or some combination thereof.

Processor <NUM> may, for example, be embodied as various means including one or more microprocessors with accompanying digital signal processor(s), one or more processor(s) without an accompanying digital signal processor, one or more coprocessors, one or more multi-core processors, one or more controllers, processing circuitry, one or more computers, various other processing elements including integrated circuits such as, for example, an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit) or FPGA (field programmable gate array), or some combination thereof. Accordingly, although illustrated in <FIG> as a single processor, in some embodiments processor <NUM> comprises a plurality of processors. The plurality of processors may be embodied on a single computing device or may be distributed across a plurality of computing devices collectively configured to function as circuitry <NUM>. The plurality of processors may be in operative communication with each other and may be collectively configured to perform one or more functionalities of circuitry <NUM> as described herein. In an example embodiment, processor <NUM> is configured to execute instructions stored in memory <NUM> or otherwise accessible to processor <NUM>. These instructions, when executed by processor <NUM>, may cause circuitry <NUM> to perform one or more of the functionalities of circuitry <NUM> as described herein.

Whether configured by hardware, firmware/software methods, or by a combination thereof, processor <NUM> may comprise an entity capable of performing operations according to embodiments of the present invention while configured accordingly. Thus, for example, when processor <NUM> is embodied as an ASIC, FPGA or the like, processor <NUM> may comprise specifically configured hardware for conducting one or more operations described herein. Alternatively, as another example, when processor <NUM> is embodied as an executor of instructions, such as may be stored in memory <NUM>, the instructions may specifically configure processor <NUM> to perform one or more algorithms and operations described herein, such as those discussed in connection with <FIG>.

Memory <NUM> may comprise, for example, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, or some combination thereof. Although illustrated in <FIG> as a single memory, memory <NUM> may comprise a plurality of memory components. The plurality of memory components may be embodied on a single computing device or distributed across a plurality of computing devices. In various embodiments, memory <NUM> may comprise, for example, a hard disk, random access memory, cache memory, read only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) & electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, a compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disc read only memory (DVDROM), an optical disc, circuitry configured to store information, or some combination thereof. Memory <NUM> may be configured to store information, data (including item data and/or profile data), applications, instructions, or the like for enabling circuitry <NUM> to carry out various functions in accordance with example embodiments of the present invention. For example, in at least some embodiments, memory <NUM> is configured to buffer input data for processing by processor <NUM>. Additionally, or alternatively, in at least some embodiments, memory <NUM> is configured to store program instructions for execution by processor <NUM>. Memory <NUM> may store information in the form of static and/or dynamic information. This stored information may be stored and/or used by circuitry <NUM> during the course of performing its functionalities.

Communication module <NUM> may be embodied as any device or means embodied in circuitry, hardware, a computer program product comprising computer readable program instructions stored on a computer readable medium (e.g., memory <NUM>) and executed by a processing device (e.g., processor <NUM>), or a combination thereof that is configured to receive and/or transmit data from/to another device and/or network, such as, for example, a second circuitry <NUM> and/or the like. In some embodiments, communication module <NUM> (like other components discussed herein) can be at least partially embodied as or otherwise controlled by processor <NUM>. In this regard, communication module <NUM> may be in communication with processor <NUM>, such as via a bus. Communication module <NUM> may include, for example, an antenna, a transmitter, a receiver, a transceiver, network interface card and/or supporting hardware and/or firmware/software for enabling communications with another computing device. Communication module <NUM> may be configured to receive and/or transmit any data that may be stored by memory <NUM> using any protocol that may be used for communications between computing devices. Communication module <NUM> may additionally or alternatively be in communication with the memory <NUM>, input/output module <NUM> and/or any other component of circuitry <NUM>, such as via a bus.

Input/output module <NUM> may be in communication with processor <NUM> to receive an indication of a user input and/or to provide an audible, visual, mechanical, or other output to a user (e.g., employee and/or customer). Some example visual outputs that may be provided to a user by circuitry <NUM> are discussed in connection with <FIG>. As such, input/output module <NUM> may include support, for example, for a keyboard, a mouse, a joystick, a display, a touch screen display, a microphone, a speaker, a RFID reader, barcode reader, biometric scanner, and/or other input/output mechanisms. In embodiments wherein circuitry <NUM> is embodied as a server or database, aspects of input/output module <NUM> may be reduced as compared to embodiments where circuitry <NUM> is implemented as an end-user machine (e.g., remote worker device and/or employee device) or other type of device designed for complex user interactions. In some embodiments (like other components discussed herein), input/output module <NUM> may even be eliminated from circuitry <NUM>. Alternatively, such as in embodiments wherein circuitry <NUM> is embodied as a server or database, at least some aspects of input/output module <NUM> may be embodied on an apparatus used by a user that is in communication with circuitry <NUM>. Input/output module <NUM> may be in communication with the memory <NUM>, communication module <NUM>, and/or any other component(s), such as via a bus. One or more than one input/output module and/or another component can be included in circuitry <NUM>.

The workflow database <NUM> and the workflow system <NUM> may also or instead be included and configured to perform the functionality discussed herein related to workflow and/or identifying performance status associated with an execution of the workflow. In some embodiments, some or all of the functionality of generating and/or information for workflow and/or performance status associated with execution of the workflow may be performed by processor <NUM>. In this regard, the example processes and algorithms discussed herein can be performed by at least one processor <NUM>, workflow database <NUM>, and/or workflow system <NUM>. For example, non-transitory computer readable media can be configured to store firmware, one or more application programs, and/or other software, which include instructions and other computerreadable program code portions that can be executed to control each processor (e.g., processor <NUM>, workflow database <NUM>, and/or workflow system <NUM>) of the components of circuitry <NUM> to implement various operations, including the examples shown above. As such, a series of computerreadable program code portions are embodied in one or more computer program goods and can be used, with a computing device, server, and/or other programmable apparatus, to produce machineimplemented processes.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary block diagram of an electronics module <NUM> in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. The components illustrated in <FIG> may be in addition to one or more components of the circuitry <NUM> shown in <FIG>, which may be part of the electronics module <NUM>. In some embodiments, one or more of the components illustrated in <FIG> may be included in the electronics module <NUM> and/or other parts of the voice-controlled apparatus (<NUM>, <NUM>), the electronic device <NUM>, operator devices <NUM>-103N, supervisor device <NUM>, and/or server <NUM>.

In the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the electronics module <NUM> can include an enclosure, such as plastic case, with a connector that can mate with a complimentary mating connector (not shown) on audio cable <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>). An internal path <NUM> can be used to communicate between multiple components within the electronics module <NUM> enclosure. The electronics module <NUM> can utilize a user-configurable attachment feature <NUM>, such as a plastic loop and/or other suitable features, for at least partially facilitating attachment of the electronics module to the worker. In one embodiment, an input speech pre-processor (ISPP) <NUM> can convert input speech into pre-processed speech feature data. In some examples, an input speech encoder (ISENC) <NUM> can encode input speech for transmission to one or more other parts of circuitry <NUM> for reconstruction and playback and/or recording. Further, a raw input audio sample packet formatter <NUM> can transmit the raw input audio to one or more other parts of circuitry <NUM> using an application-layer protocol to facilitate communications between the voice terminal and headset <NUM> as the transport mechanism. For the purposes of the transport mechanism, the formatter <NUM> can be abstracted to a codec type referred to as Input Audio Sample Data (IASD). An output audio decoder (OADEC) <NUM> decodes encoded output speech and audio for playback in the headset <NUM>. According to some example embodiments, a raw output audio sample packet reader <NUM> can operates to receive raw audio packets from one or more other parts of circuitry <NUM> using the transport mechanism. For the purposes of the transport mechanism, this formatter <NUM> can be abstracted to a codec type referred to as Output Audio Sample Data (OASD). A command processor <NUM> can adjusts the headset hardware (e.g., input hardware gain level) under control of one or more other parts of circuitry <NUM>. Further, in some example embodiments, a query processor <NUM> can allow one or more other parts of circuitry <NUM> to retrieve information regarding headset operational status and configuration. Further, path <NUM> can also be coupled to network circuitry <NUM> to communicate via wired or wireless protocol with one or more other parts of circuitry <NUM>. In some examples, the ISPP <NUM>, ISENC <NUM>, and raw input audio formatter <NUM> can be sources of communication packets used in the transport mechanism; the OADEC <NUM> and raw output audio reader <NUM> can be packet sinks. The command and query processors <NUM>, <NUM> are both packet sinks as well as sources (in general they generate acknowledgement or response packets).

<FIG> illustrates an example scenario of communication between a voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> (e.g. a headset device, a wearable head mounting device etc.) to be used by an operator <NUM>, an electronic device <NUM> (e.g. a mobile device, a PDA etc.) and a personal device <NUM> (e.g. a personal mobile phone) carried by the operator <NUM>. The voice-controlled apparatus <NUM>, the electronic device <NUM> and the personal device <NUM> can be communicatively coupled to each other via a Bluetooth classic connection or BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) protocol. In an example embodiment, the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> can communicate with the electronic device <NUM> via a Bluetooth classic connection and the electronic device can communicate with the personal device <NUM> via a BLE protocol. In an exemplary embodiment, the electronic device <NUM> and the personal device <NUM> can communicate to each other over BLE, via GATT services.

In accordance with the example embodiment, an operator <NUM> can use the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> and the electronic device <NUM> to perform one or more tasks of the workflow operation. In an example embodiment, the workflow operation can be an item picking operation for picking one or more items, for example, from a storage location in the warehouse. In this regard, in an example embodiment, the operator <NUM> can wear the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> (e.g. a headset device) and receive instructions in form of voice prompts from the electronic device <NUM> to perform various steps associated with the workflow operation. For example, the operator <NUM> can receive one or more voice prompts on the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> that can include instructions (such as instructions for, reaching a storage location, identifying items to be picked, confirming the items for picking, and etc.) related to the picking of the items.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a method <NUM> for providing voice-based communication and/or speech dialog between a user and an electronic device. The method <NUM> may include generating speech for a user <NUM>. In an embodiment, the voice-controlled apparatus (for example, <NUM>) can include output devices, such as, speakers for receiving digital instructions and/or commands from one or more components of the circuitry in the voice-controlled apparatus and output the audio transmission in the form of speech or sound.

The method <NUM> can further include receiving a speech input from a user in response <NUM>. In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, the system can include a series of instances or junctures where an input is received from the user in response to the prompt. For example, a prompt asking a user for a desired location may request that a user provides an input, such as, speech input, providing location information, in accordance with the invention. In an example embodiment, the voice-controlled apparatus e, as described above, may further include input devices, such as a microphone for receiving speech inputs from a user. The microphone may further transmit the received speech input to one or more components of circuitry in the voice controllable device for further processing and recognition.

The method <NUM> can include digitizing the received speech input and processing digitized speech <NUM>. In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, a microphone or other electroacoustical components of the voice-controlled apparatus may receive a speech input from a user and may convert the speech input into an analog voltage signal.

The method <NUM> can further include performing speech recognition to match speech input to an expected response <NUM>. In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, a speech recognition search algorithm function, realized by an appropriate circuit and/or software in the voice controllable device may analyze the features, as described above, to determine what hypothesis to assign to the speech input captured by the microphone of the voice-controlled apparatus. As is known in the art, in one recognition algorithm, the recognition search relies on probabilistic models provided through a database of suitable models to recognize the speech input. Each of the models in the database may either be customized to a user or be generic to a set of users.

Hidden Markov Models (HMM) may be used for the speech recognition. In speech recognition, these models may use sequences of states to describe vocabulary items, which may be words, phrases, or sub word units. As used herein, the term "word" may refer to a vocabulary item, and thus may mean a word, a segment or part of a word, or a compound word, such as "next slot" or "say again. " Therefore, the term "word" may not be limited to just a single word. Each state in an HMM may represent one or more acoustic events and may serve to assign a probability to each observed feature vector. Accordingly, a path through the HMM states may produce a probabilistic indication of a series of acoustic feature vectors. The model may be searched such that different, competing hypotheses (or paths) are scored; a process known as acoustic matching or acoustic searching. A state S may be reached at a time T via a number of different paths. For each path reaching a particular state at a particular time, a path probability may be calculated. Using the Viterbi algorithm, each path through the HMM may be assigned a probability. In particular, the best path may be assigned a probability. Furthermore, each word in the best path may be assigned a probability. Each of these probabilities may be used as a confidence factor or combined with other measurements, estimates or numbers to derive a confidence factor. The path with the highest confidence factor, the best hypothesis, can then be further analyzed.

When in operation, the search algorithm (which can be implemented using Hidden Markov Models with a Viterbi algorithm or other modeling techniques such as template matching dynamic time warping (DTW) or neural networks), in essence, may compare the features generated, as described above, with reference representations of speech, or speech models, in the database in order to determine the word or words that best match the speech input from the user device. In an embodiment, part of this recognition process may be to assign a confidence factor for the speech to indicate how closely the sequence of features from the search algorithm matches the closest or best-matching models in the database. As such, a hypothesis consisting of one or more vocabulary items and associated confidence factors may be directed to an acceptance algorithm to determine expected response. In accordance with the above embodiment, if the confidence factor is above a predetermined acceptance threshold, then the acceptance algorithm may decide to accept the hypothesis as recognized speech. If, however, the confidence factor is not above the acceptance threshold, as utilized by the acceptance algorithm, then the acceptance algorithm may decide to ignore or reject the recognized speech. The user device may then prompt the user to repeat the speech input. In this instance, the user may repeat the audio input provided to the microphone.

The method <NUM> may further include executing the text request associated with the speech input <NUM>. That is, a text request may be associated with the recognized speech and then acted upon after processing the speech input.

<FIG> illustrates an example scenario of depicting a system <NUM> for workflow operation that can be performed by an operator <NUM>, in accordance with an example embodiment. As illustrated, a work environment <NUM> can include the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM>, and the electronic device <NUM> and the personal device <NUM>. As described previously in reference to <FIG>, the electronic device <NUM> and the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> can correspond to a device (e.g. operator device <NUM>-<NUM> to 103N) that can be used by operators to perform the workflow operation.

In accordance with the example embodiment, an operator (e.g., <NUM>) can use the voicecontrolled apparatus <NUM> and the electronic device <NUM> to perform one or more tasks of the workflow operation. In an example, the workflow operation can be an item picking operation for picking one or more items, for example, from a storage location in the warehouse. In this regard, in an example embodiment, the operator <NUM> can wear the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> (e.g. a headset device) and receive instructions in form of voice prompts from the electronic device <NUM> to perform various steps associated with the workflow operation. For example, the operator <NUM> can receive one or more voice prompts on the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> that can include instructions (such as instruction for, reaching a storage location, identifying items to be picked, confirming the items for picking, etc.) related to the picking of the items. In other words, various steps of the workflow operation can be performed based on the voice dialogue (i.e. exchange of voice prompts and voice responses) between the operator <NUM> and the operator device.

As an example, as illustrated in <FIG>, a voice dialogue can include multiple voice prompts that can be provided by the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> (referred herein as, Talkman) to the operator <NUM> for performing steps of the workflow operation. In response to each voice prompt, the operator <NUM> can perform a task required at respective step and provide a voice response to the voice prompts. According to some examples, the voice response can be indicative of a performance or non-performance of the task instructed in the voice prompt. In some examples, the voice response can indicate any of, a confirmation, a data value, etc. indicative of performing of that step of the task of the workflow.

Also, as illustrated in <FIG>, the personal device <NUM> can send out connection request signal to the electronic device <NUM> and receive request acknowledgment (ACK) from the electronic device <NUM>.

According to the example embodiment, the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> can connect to the electronic device <NUM> (referred herein as, a work device) at step <NUM>, for performing tasks in a workflow operation. At step <NUM>, the connection of the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> can switch from the electronic device <NUM> to the personal device <NUM>, upon occurrence of an event on personal device <NUM> (at step <NUM>). At step <NUM>, the voice controllable apparatus <NUM> can now establish a connection with the personal device while the connection with the electronic device <NUM> is discontinued. In other words, the connection between the voice controllable apparatus <NUM> and the electronic device <NUM> can be discontinued temporarily upon occurrence of the event on the personal device <NUM>. In an example, the event may comprise an incoming call, a text message or a notification in the personal device <NUM>. The operator <NUM> during the workflow execution can pick up the incoming call on the personal device <NUM> via the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a flow diagram representing a method <NUM> for facilitating the worker to use the personal device while executing a workflow operation, in accordance with an example embodiment.

The method <NUM> starts at step <NUM>. At step <NUM>, a wearable electronic device (e.g. the voicecontrolled apparatus <NUM>) receives a first message indicative of an initiation of an event on a first device. In this regard, as described earlier, an event referred herein can represent an incoming call, a text message or a notification received on the first device. The first device can communicate with a second device, via a BLE protocol, as described earlier in <FIG>. In the same manner, the second device can communicate with the wearable electronic device, via a Bluetooth classic connection.

At step <NUM>, the wearable electronic device pauses the workflow operation executing on at least one of the second device and the wearable electronic device. In an example, as described in <FIG>, the workflow operation can be an item picking operation for picking one or more items, from a storage location in the warehouse.

At step <NUM>, in response to pausing the workflow operation, the wearable electronic device receives a first disconnection request from the second device. In an exemplary example, the first disconnection request relates to termination of a first connection between the wearable electronic device with the second device.

The method at step <NUM> illustrates that in response to receiving the first disconnection request, the wearable electronic device sends a first connection request to the first device to communicatively couple the wearable electronic device with the first device.

At step <NUM>, the wearable electronic device receives a second message indicative of completion of the event on the first device. According to some example embodiments, the completion of the event on the first device can represent incoming call end STATE, i.e. may indicate that the incoming call on the first device ended. The processing control can be then transferred to step <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>.

At step <NUM>, in response to the completion of the event on the first device, the wearable electronic device receives a second disconnection request from the first device. The second disconnection request relates to termination of a second connection between the wearable electronic device and the first device.

At step <NUM>, the wearable electronic device sends a second connection request to communicatively couple the wearable electronic device to the second device.

At step <NUM>, the wearable electronic device resumes the workflow operation on at least one of the second device and the wearable electronic device. The method <NUM> stops at step <NUM>.

In an example embodiment, <FIG> illustrate a flow or block diagram of a method of workflow operations performed by the system <NUM>. The process starts at block <NUM>. At block <NUM>, a work device (for example, Dolphin CT50 Handheld computer) can identify occurrence of an event on a personal device of a worker. In an example, the work device can have a persistent connection with the personal device of the worker. The connection can comprise a continuous transmission of packets between the work device and the personal device. As already described earlier in <FIG>, the event can include, for example, an incoming call, a text message or a notification in the personal device. The personal device of the worker can have an application (for example, Vocollect BLE app) stored in a memory of a processor that could facilitate a communication between the work device and the personal device.

In an example embodiment, when an incoming call is received on the personal device, the application stored in the processor of the personal device can send instructions to the work device over a BLE protocol, as already discussed in <FIG>. At block <NUM>, the work device can receive the instruction from the personal device indicating occurrence of the incoming call on the personal device.

At block <NUM>, the work device can further notify the worker via a voice prompt that an event has occurred on the personal device. In this regard, the voice prompt can be received by an input/output module <NUM> of a user device <NUM>, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, with reference to <FIG>, the voice prompt can be received by a speaker <NUM> of a user device <NUM>. The notification to the worker may not be limited to voice but can comprise a visual notification on a display of the work device. After the provision of the voice prompt at block <NUM>, processing control can be transferred to block <NUM>.

At block <NUM>, the work device waits till it receives a verbal response from the worker. By a way of an example, the verbal response can include "Accept", "Reject", to accept or reject the incoming call on the personal device. The verbal response can be provided via a microphone (for example, microphone <NUM> shown in <FIG>) of the user device <NUM>. The verbal response can also include pre-determined phrases, and/or may include any speech signal input which can be parsed and recognized by a speech circuitry. In response to receiving a verbal response from the worker, at block <NUM>, such as within a predetermined timeframe, processing control can be transferred from block <NUM> to block <NUM>. In case, no response is received within the predetermined timeframe, the processing control can be transferred back to block <NUM>.

At step <NUM>, the system <NUM> described in <FIG>, can check if the verbal response received from the worker is appropriate or expected. As discussed above, the verbal response can include phrases like "Accept" or "Reject" which may be parsed and recognized by the speech circuitry. In response to receiving an expected verbal response from the worker, the processing control can be transferred to block <NUM>, or otherwise transferred to block <NUM> if the verbal response received is not the expected one.

At step <NUM>, the system can check if the verbal response received from the worker comprises "Accept" phrase. As another example and at least partially reiterating from above, an appropriate verbal response associated with block <NUM> can be a verbal response from the worker comprising one or more of the words "Accept," "Okay," and/or any other suitable verbal verification for indicating that the worker is ready to attend the incoming call. In other words, the worker may want to accept the incoming call.

In response to receiving the expected verbal response comprising "Accept" or similar phrase, worker's break period can be initiated, at block <NUM>. In an example embodiment, in order to indicate the beginning of a break activity the worker can also report through the headset using standard break vocabulary such as "take a break" followed by the type of break the worker wishes to take (e.g., lunch break, coffee break, phone call break, etc.). Determining worker idle duration around reported break activities can be useful information for a supervisor because workers may generally cease or slow work activity before reporting break activities and/or after reporting returning from break activities. In response to a negative determination being made at block <NUM>, processing control can be transferred to block <NUM> to resume the workflow operation. In an example embodiment, suppose if the verbal response from the worker comprises phrase "Reject" indicating that the worker is not ready to take the call, the workflow can resume from paused state.

In response to initiation of break period of the worker, the work device at block <NUM> can release a connection, such as Bluetooth classic connection, with the headset (for example, <NUM>), as shown in <FIG>. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, with reference to <FIG>, after termination of connection between the headset (refer as voice-controlled apparatus <NUM>) and the work device (refer as electronic device <NUM>), the headset can establish a connection with the personal device <NUM>. In simple words, the connection of the headset <NUM> may switch from the work device <NUM> to the personal device <NUM>. In this regard, the worker <NUM> can pick up the incoming call in the personal device <NUM> via the headset <NUM> without a need to terminate the workflow execution.

At block <NUM>, the work device waits till it receives a verbal command from the worker. By a way of an example, the verbal command can include phrases like "End call" or "Vocollect end call", to end the incoming call. The verbal command can be provided via a microphone (for example, microphone <NUM> shown in <FIG>) of the user device <NUM>. The verbal response can include pre-determined phrases, and/or may include any speech signal input which can be parsed and recognized by a speech circuitry. In response to receiving a "End call" verbal command from the worker, at block <NUM>, such as within a predetermined timeframe, processing control can be transferred from block <NUM> to block <NUM>. In response to negative determination at block <NUM>, the processing control can be transferred to block <NUM>.

At block <NUM>, the personal device can release a connection, such as Bluetooth classic connection, with the headset (for example, <NUM>), as shown in <FIG>. In response to releasing the connection with the personal device, the headset re-establishes the connection with the work device, at block <NUM>. In other words, the connection of the headset <NUM> can switch from the personal device <NUM> to the work device <NUM>. Processing control can be transferred from block <NUM> to block <NUM>, thereby, resuming the workflow operation.

At block <NUM>, the break period of the worker can be terminated by the system.

At block <NUM>, the process ends. In the method described above, the provision of each of the numerous verbal prompts (e.g., at blocks <NUM>) can comprise the speaker <NUM> converting or transforming an audio signal, which is provided by respective features of the system <NUM>, to a voice-sound for being received by the worker; and the receipt of each of the verbal responses (e.g., as a precursor to blocks <NUM>, <NUM> and/or <NUM>) can comprise the microphone <NUM> converting or transforming a voice sound, which is provided by the worker, to an electrical signal that is provided to respective features of the system <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a schematic view <NUM> of an example electronic device (e.g. the electronic device <NUM>, the operator devices <NUM>-103N, the supervisor device <NUM> etc.), in accordance with an example embodiment described herein. In some example embodiments, the electronic device <NUM> can correspond to a mobile handset. <FIG> illustrates is a schematic block diagram of an example end-user device such as a user equipment that can be the electronic device <NUM> used by an operator for executing one or more tasks of a workflow.

Although, <FIG> illustrates a mobile handset, it will be understood that other devices can be any electronic device as described in <FIG>, and that the mobile handset is merely illustrated to provide context for the embodiments of the various embodiments described herein. To this end, the following discussion is intended to provide a brief, general description of an example of a suitable environment in which the various embodiments can be implemented. While the description includes a general context of computer-executable instructions embodied on a machine-readable storage medium, those skilled in the art will recognize that the various embodiments also can be implemented in combination with other program modules and/or as a combination of hardware and software.

Generally, applications (e.g., program modules) can include routines, programs, components, data structures, etc., described herein in accordance with example embodiments, that can perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Moreover, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the methods described herein can be practiced with other system configurations, including single-processor or multiprocessor systems, minicomputers, mainframe computers, as well as personal computers, hand-held computing devices, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, and the like, each of which can be operatively coupled to one or more associated devices.

According to some example embodiments, the electronic device <NUM>, the operator devices <NUM>-103N, and the voice-controlled apparatus <NUM> can typically include a variety of machinereadable media. Machine-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by the computer and includes both volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media. By way of example and not limitation, computer-readable media can comprise computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media can include volatile and/or non-volatile media, removable and/or non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. Computer storage media can include, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD ROM, digital video disk (DVD) or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store the desired information and which can be accessed by the computer.

According to some example embodiments described herein, a communication media typically embodies computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data in a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism and includes any information delivery media. In this regard, the term "modulated data signal" can correspond to a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal. By way of example, and not limitation, communication media includes wired media such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, RF, infrared and other wireless media. Combinations of the any of the above may also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

According to some example embodiments, the mobile handset can comprise a processor <NUM> for controlling and processing all onboard operations and functions. A memory <NUM> interfaces to the processor <NUM> for storage of data and one or more applications <NUM> (e.g., a video player software, user feedback component software, etc.). Other applications can include voice recognition of predetermined voice commands that facilitate initiation of the user feedback signals. The applications <NUM> can be stored in the memory <NUM> and/or in a firmware <NUM> and executed by the processor <NUM> from either or both the memory <NUM> or/and the firmware <NUM>. The firmware <NUM> can also store startup code for execution in initializing the mobile handset. A communications component <NUM> interfaces to the processor <NUM> to facilitate wired/wireless communication with external systems, e.g., cellular networks, VoIP networks, and so on. Here, the communications component <NUM> can also include a suitable cellular transceiver <NUM> (e.g., a GSM transceiver) and/or an unlicensed transceiver <NUM> (e.g., Wi-Fi, WiMAX) for corresponding signal communications. The mobile handset can be a device such as a cellular telephone, a PDA with mobile communications capabilities, and messaging-centric devices. The communications component <NUM> also facilitates communications reception from terrestrial radio networks (e.g., broadcast), digital satellite radio networks, and Internet-based radio services networks.

The mobile handset can also comprise a display <NUM> (e.g. display screen) for displaying text, images, video, telephony functions (e.g., a Caller ID function), setup functions, and for user input. For example, the display <NUM> can also be referred to as a "screen" that can accommodate the presentation of multimedia content (e.g., music metadata, messages, wallpaper, graphics, etc.). The display <NUM> can also display videos and can facilitate the generation, editing and sharing of video quotes. A serial I/O interface <NUM> is provided in communication with the processor <NUM> to facilitate wired and/or wireless serial communications (e.g., USB, and/or IEEE <NUM>) through a hardwire connection, and other serial input devices (e.g., a keyboard, keypad, and mouse). This support updating and troubleshooting the mobile handset, for example. Audio capabilities are provided with an audio I/O component <NUM>, which can include a speaker for the output of audio signals related to, for example, indication that the user pressed the proper key or key combination to initiate the user feedback signal. The audio I/O component <NUM> also facilitates the input of audio signals through a microphone to record data and/or telephony voice data, and for inputting voice signals for telephone conversations.

The mobile handset can also comprise a slot interface <NUM> for accommodating a SIC (Subscriber Identity Component) in the form factor of a card Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) or universal SIM <NUM> and interfacing the SIM card <NUM> with the processor <NUM>. However, it is to be appreciated that the SIM card <NUM> can be manufactured into the mobile handset and updated by downloading data and software.

The mobile handset can also process IP data traffic through the communication component <NUM> to accommodate IP traffic from an IP network such as, for example, the Internet, a corporate intranet, a home network, a person area network, etc., through an ISP or broadband cable provider. Thus, VoIP traffic can be utilized by the mobile handset and IP-based multimedia content can be received in either an encoded or decoded format.

A video processing component <NUM> (e.g., a camera) can be provided for decoding encoded multimedia content. The video processing component <NUM> can aid in facilitating the generation, editing and sharing of video quotes. The mobile handset also includes a power source <NUM> in the form of batteries and/or an AC power subsystem, which power source <NUM> can interface to an external power system or charging equipment (not shown) by a power I/O component <NUM>.

According to some example embodiments, the mobile handset can also comprise a video component <NUM> for processing video content received and, for recording and transmitting video content. For example, the video component <NUM> can facilitate the generation, editing and sharing of video quotes. In some example embodiments, a location tracking component <NUM> facilitates geographically locating the mobile handset. As described hereinabove, this can occur when the user initiates the feedback signal automatically or manually. According to some example embodiments, a user input component <NUM> facilitates the user initiating the quality feedback signal. In this regard, in some examples, the user input component <NUM> can also facilitate the generation, editing and sharing of video quotes. According to various example embodiments described herein, the user input component <NUM> can include such conventional input device technologies such as a keypad, keyboard, mouse, stylus pen, and/or touch screen, for example.

Referring again to the applications <NUM>, a hysteresis component <NUM> can facilitate the analysis and processing of hysteresis data, which is utilized to determine when to associate with the access point. A software trigger component <NUM> can be provided that facilitates triggering of the hysteresis component <NUM> when the Wi-Fi transceiver <NUM> detects the beacon of the access point. A SIP client <NUM> enables the mobile handset to support SIP protocols and register the subscriber with the SIP registrar server. In some example embodiments, the applications <NUM> can also include a client <NUM> that provides at least the capability of discovery, play and store of multimedia content, for example, music.

In some example embodiments, the mobile handset, as indicated above related to the communications component <NUM>, includes an indoor network radio transceiver <NUM> (e.g., Wi-Fi transceiver). This function can support the indoor radio link, such as IEEE <NUM>, for the dualmode GSM handset. In some example embodiments, the mobile handset can accommodate at least satellite radio services through a handset that can combine wireless voice and digital radio chipsets into a single handheld device.

<FIG> illustrates a schematic view of another example of an electronic device <NUM>, in accordance with another example embodiment described herein. According to some example embodiments, the electronic device <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> can correspond to the electronic device <NUM>, the operator devices <NUM>-103N, the supervisor device <NUM>, and/or the server <NUM>, as described in reference to <FIG>.

Referring now to <FIG>, there is illustrated a block diagram of operable to execute the functions and operations performed in the described example embodiments. In some example embodiments, the electronic device <NUM> can provide networking and communication capabilities between a wired or wireless communication network and a server and/or communication device. In order to provide additional context for various aspects thereof, <FIG> and the following discussion are intended to provide a brief, general description of a suitable computing environment in which the various aspects of the embodiments can be implemented to facilitate the establishment of a transaction between an entity and a third party. While the description above is in the general context of computer-executable instructions that can run on one or more computers, those skilled in the art will recognize that the various embodiments also can be implemented in combination with other program modules and/or as a combination of hardware and software.

According to said example embodiments, program modules include routines, programs, components, data structures, etc., that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Moreover, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the inventive methods can be practiced with other computer system configurations, including single-processor or multiprocessor computer systems, minicomputers, mainframe computers, as well as personal computers, handheld computing devices, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, and the like, each of which can be operatively coupled to one or more associated devices.

The illustrated aspects of the various embodiments can also be practiced in distributed computing environments where certain tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, program modules can be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.

In accordance with some example embodiments, computing devices typically include a variety of media, which can include computer-readable storage media or communications media, which two terms are used herein differently from one another as follows.

According to some example embodiments, a computer-readable storage media can be any available storage media that can be accessed by the computer and includes both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. By way of example, and not limitation, computer-readable storage media can be implemented in connection with any method or technology for storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, program modules, structured data, or unstructured data. Computer-readable storage media can include, but are not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD ROM, digital versatile disk (DVD) or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or other tangible and/or non-transitory media which can be used to store desired information. Computer-readable storage media can be accessed by one or more local or remote computing devices, e.g., via access requests, queries or other data retrieval protocols, for a variety of operations with respect to the information stored by the medium.

In some examples, communications media can embody computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other structured or unstructured data in a data signal such as a modulated data signal, e.g., a carrier wave or other transport mechanism, and includes any information delivery or transport media. The term "modulated data signal" or signals refers to a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in one or more signals. By way of example, and not limitation, communication media include wired media, such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, RF, infrared and other wireless media.

With reference to <FIG>, implementing various aspects described herein with regards to the end-user device can comprise the electronic device (or referred as computing device <NUM>) comprising a processing unit <NUM>, a system memory <NUM> and a system bus <NUM>. The system bus <NUM> can be configured to couple system components including, but not limited to, the system memory <NUM> to the processing unit <NUM>. In some example embodiments, the processing unit <NUM> can be any of various commercially available processors. To this end, in some examples, dual microprocessors and other multi-processor architectures can also be employed as the processing unit <NUM>.

According to some example embodiments, the system bus <NUM> can be any of several types of bus structure that can further interconnect to a memory bus (with or without a memory controller), a peripheral bus, and a local bus using any of a variety of commercially available bus architectures. In some examples, the system memory <NUM> can comprise, read-only memory (ROM) <NUM> and random-access memory (RAM) <NUM>. According to some example embodiments, a basic input/output system (BIOS) is stored in a non-volatile memory <NUM> such as ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, which BIOS contains the basic routines that help to transfer information between elements within the computing device <NUM>, such as during start-up. The RAM <NUM> can also comprise a high-speed RAM such as static RAM for caching data.

According to some example embodiments, the computing device <NUM> can further comprise an internal hard disk drive (HDD) <NUM> (e.g., EIDE, SATA), which internal hard disk drive <NUM> can also be configured for external use in a suitable chassis (not shown), a magnetic floppy disk drive (FDD) <NUM>, (e.g., to read from or write to a removable diskette <NUM>) and an optical disk drive <NUM>, (e.g., reading a CD-ROM disk or, to read from or write to other high capacity optical media such as the DVD). In some examples, the hard disk drive <NUM>, magnetic disk drive <NUM> and optical disk drive <NUM> can be connected to the system bus <NUM> by a hard disk drive interface <NUM>, a magnetic disk drive interface <NUM> and an optical drive interface <NUM>, respectively. According to some example embodiments, the interface <NUM> for external drive implementations can comprise, at least one or both of Universal Serial Bus (USB) and IEEE <NUM> interface technologies. Other external drive connection technologies are within contemplation of the subject embodiments.

According to some example embodiments described herein, the drives and their associated computer-readable media provide nonvolatile storage of data, data structures, computerexecutable instructions, and so forth. For the electronic device the drives and media accommodate the storage of any data in a suitable digital format. Although the description of computer-readable media above refers to a HDD, a removable magnetic diskette, and a removable optical media such as a CD or DVD, it may be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other types of media which are readable by an electronic device, such as zip drives, magnetic cassettes, flash memory cards, cartridges, and the like, can also be used in the example operating environment, and further, that any such media can contain computer-executable instructions for performing the methods of the disclosed embodiments.

In some example embodiments, a number of program modules can be stored in the drives and RAM <NUM>, including an operating system <NUM>, one or more application programs <NUM>, other program modules <NUM> and program data <NUM>. To this end, in some examples, all or portions of the operating system, applications, modules, and/or data can also be cached in the RAM <NUM>. It is to be appreciated that the various embodiments can be implemented with various commercially available operating systems or combinations of operating systems.

According to some example embodiments, a user can enter commands and information into the computing device through one or more wired/wireless input devices, e.g., a keyboard <NUM> and a pointing device, such as a mouse <NUM>. Other input devices (not shown) may include a microphone, an IR remote control, a joystick, a game pad, a stylus pen, touch screen, or the like. In some examples, these and other input devices are often connected to the processing unit <NUM> through an input device interface <NUM> that is coupled to the system bus <NUM>, but can be connected by other interfaces, such as a parallel port, an IEEE <NUM> serial port, a game port, a USB port, an IR interface, etc..

According to some example embodiments, a monitor <NUM> or other type of display device can also be connected to the system bus <NUM> through an interface, such as a video adapter <NUM>. In addition to the monitor <NUM>, the computing device <NUM> can also comprise other peripheral output devices (not shown), such as speakers, printers, etc..

According to some example embodiments, the computing device <NUM> can operate in a networked environment using logical connections by wired and/or wireless communications to one or more remote computers, such as a remote computer(s) <NUM>. In some examples, the remote computer(s) <NUM> can be a workstation, a server computer, a router, a personal computer, portable computer, microprocessor-based entertainment device, a peer device or other common network node, and typically includes many or all of the elements described relative to the computer, although, for purposes of brevity, only a memory/storage device <NUM> is illustrated. According to some example embodiments, the logical connections depicted include wired/wireless connectivity to a local area network (LAN) <NUM> and/or larger networks, e.g., a wide area network (WAN) <NUM>. Such LAN and WAN networking environments are commonplace in offices and companies, and facilitate enterprise-wide computer networks, such as intranets, all of which may connect to a global communications network, e.g., the Internet.

In some examples, when used in a LAN networking environment, the computing device <NUM> can be connected to the LAN <NUM> through a wired and/or wireless communication network interface or adapter <NUM>. The adapter <NUM> may facilitate wired or wireless communication to the LAN <NUM>, which may also include a wireless access point disposed thereon for communicating with the wireless adapter <NUM>.

In alternate examples, when used in a WAN networking environment, the computing device <NUM> can include a modem <NUM>, or can be connected to a communications server on the WAN <NUM> or has other means for establishing communications over the WAN <NUM>, such as by way of the Internet. The modem <NUM>, which can be internal or external and a wired or wireless device, is connected to the system bus <NUM> through the input device interface <NUM>. In a networked environment, program modules depicted relative to the computer, or portions thereof, can be stored in the remote memory/storage device <NUM>. It will be appreciated that the network connections shown are exemplary and other means of establishing a communications link between the computers can be used.

According to some example embodiments, the computing device <NUM> can be operable to communicate with any wireless devices or entities operatively disposed in wireless communication, e.g., a printer, scanner, desktop and/or portable computer, portable data assistant, communications satellite, any piece of equipment or location associated with a wirelessly detectable tag (e.g., a kiosk, news stand, restroom), and telephone. This can further comprise at least Wi-Fi and Bluetooth™ wireless technologies. Thus, the communication can be a predefined structure as with a conventional network or simply an ad hoc communication between at least two devices.

In accordance with some example embodiments, Wi-Fi, or Wireless Fidelity, allows connection to the Internet from a couch at home, a bed in a hotel room, or a conference room at work, without wires. To this end, Wi-Fi referred herein, is a wireless technology similar to that used in a cell phone that enables such devices, e.g., computers, to send and receive data indoors and out; anywhere within the range of a base station. Wi-Fi networks use radio technologies called IEEE802. <NUM> (a, b, g, n, etc.) to provide secure, reliable, fast wireless connectivity. Further, in accordance with some example embodiments described herein, a Wi-Fi network can be used to connect computers or the plurality of electronic devices to each other, to the Internet, and to wired networks (which use IEEE802. <NUM> or Ethernet). Wi-Fi networks operate in the unlicensed <NUM> and <NUM> radio bands, at an <NUM> Mbps (<NUM>. 11b) or <NUM> Mbps (<NUM>. 11a) data rate, for example, or with products that contain both bands (dual band), so the networks can provide real-world performance similar to the basic "9BaseT" wired Ethernet networks used in many offices.

As used in this application, the terms "system," "component," "interface," and the like are generally intended to refer to a computer-related entity or an entity related to an operational machine with one or more specific functionalities. The entities disclosed herein can be either hardware, a combination of hardware and software, software, or software in execution. For example, a component may be, but is not limited to being, a process running on a processor, a processor, an object, an executable, a thread of execution, a program, and/or a computer. By way of illustration, both an application running on a server and the server can be a component. One or more components may reside within a process and/or thread of execution and a component may be localized on one computer and/or distributed between two or more computers. These components also can execute from various computer readable storage media having various data structures stored thereon. The components may communicate via local and/or remote processes such as in accordance with a signal having one or more data packets (e.g., data from one component interacting with another component in a local system, distributed system, and/or across a network such as the Internet with other systems via the signal). As another example, a component can be an apparatus with specific functionality provided by mechanical parts operated by electric or electronic circuitry that is operated by software or firmware application(s) executed by a processor, wherein the processor can be internal or external to the apparatus and executes at least a part of the software or firmware application. As yet another example, a component can be an apparatus that provides specific functionality through electronic components without mechanical parts, the electronic components can comprise a processor therein to execute software or firmware that confers at least in part the functionality of the electronic components. An interface can comprise input/output (I/O) components as well as associated processor, application, and/or API components.

Furthermore, the disclosed subject matter may be implemented as a method, apparatus, or article of manufacture using standard programming and/or engineering techniques to produce software, firmware, hardware, or any combination thereof to control a computer to implement the disclosed subject matter. The term "article of manufacture" as used herein is intended to encompass a computer program accessible from any computer-readable device, computer-readable carrier, or computer-readable media. For example, computer-readable media can include, but are not limited to, a magnetic storage device, e.g., hard disk; floppy disk; magnetic strip(s); an optical disk (e.g., compact disk (CD), a digital video disc (DVD), a Blu-ray Disc™ (BD)); a smart card; a flash memory device (e.g., card, stick, key drive); and/or a virtual device that emulates a storage device and/or any of the above computer-readable media.

As it employed in the subject specification, the term "processor" can refer to substantially any computing processing unit or device comprising, but not limited to comprising, single-core processors; single-processors with software multithread execution capability; multi-core processors; multi-core processors with software multithread execution capability; multi-core processors with hardware multithread technology; parallel platforms; and parallel platforms with distributed shared memory. Additionally, a processor can refer to an integrated circuit, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic controller (PLC), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), a discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. Processors can exploit nano-scale architectures such as, but not limited to, molecular and quantumdot based transistors, switches and gates, in order to optimize space usage or enhance performance of user equipment. A processor also can be implemented as a combination of computing processing units.

In the subject specification, terms such as "store," "data store," "data storage," "database," "repository," "queue", and substantially any other information storage component relevant to operation and functionality of a component, refer to "memory components," or entities embodied in a "memory" or components comprising the memory. It will be appreciated that the memory components described herein can be either volatile memory or nonvolatile memory or can comprise both volatile and nonvolatile memory. In addition, memory components or memory elements can be removable or stationary. Moreover, memory can be internal or external to a device or component, or removable or stationary. Memory can comprise various types of media that are readable by a computer, such as hard-disc drives, zip drives, magnetic cassettes, flash memory cards or other types of memory cards, cartridges, or the like.

By way of illustration, and not limitation, nonvolatile memory can comprise read only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable ROM (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory can comprise random access memory (RAM), which acts as external cache memory. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM is available in many forms such as synchronous RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM), Synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), and direct Rambus RAM (DRRAM). Additionally, the disclosed memory components of systems or methods herein are intended to comprise, without being limited to comprising, these and any other suitable types of memory.

In particular and in regard to the various functions performed by the above described components, devices, circuits, systems and the like, the terms (including a reference to a "means") used to describe such components are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any component which performs the specified function of the described component (e.g., a functional equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure, which performs the function in the herein illustrated example aspects of the embodiments. In this regard, it will also be recognized that the embodiments comprise a system as well as a computer-readable medium having computer-executable instructions for performing the acts and/or events of the various methods.

Computing devices typically comprise a variety of media, which can comprise computerreadable storage media and/or communications media, which two terms are used herein differently from one another as follows. Computer-readable storage media can be any available storage media that can be accessed by the computer and comprises both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. By way of example, and not limitation, computer-readable storage media can be implemented in connection with any method or technology for storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, program modules, structured data, or unstructured data. Computer-readable storage media can comprise, but are not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD ROM, digital versatile disk (DVD) or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or other tangible and/or non-transitory media which can be used to store desired information. Computer-readable storage media can be accessed by one or more local or remote computing devices, e.g., via access requests, queries or other data retrieval protocols, for a variety of operations with respect to the information stored by the medium.

On the other hand, communications media typically embody computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other structured or unstructured data in a data signal such as a modulated data signal, e.g., a carrier wave or other transport mechanism, and comprises any information delivery or transport media. The term "modulated data signal" or signals refers to a signal that has one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in one or more signals. By way of example, and not limitation, communications media comprise wired media, such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, RF, infrared and other wireless media.

Further, terms like "user equipment," "user device," "mobile device," "mobile," station," "access terminal," "terminal," "handset," and similar terminology, generally refer to a wireless device utilized by a subscriber or user of a wireless communication network or service to receive or convey data, control, voice, video, sound, gaming, or substantially any data-stream or signalingstream. The foregoing terms are utilized interchangeably in the subject specification and related drawings. Likewise, the terms "access point," "node B," "base station," "evolved Node B," "cell," "cell site," and the like, can be utilized interchangeably in the subject application, and refer to a wireless network component or appliance that serves and receives data, control, voice, video, sound, gaming, or substantially any data-stream or signaling-stream from a set of subscriber stations. Data and signaling streams can be packetized or frame-based flows. It is noted that in the subject specification and drawings, context or explicit distinction provides differentiation with respect to access points or base stations that serve and receive data from a mobile device in an outdoor environment, and access points or base stations that operate in a confined, primarily indoor environment overlaid in an outdoor coverage area. Data and signaling streams can be packetized or frame-based flows.

Furthermore, the terms "user," "subscriber," "customer," "consumer," and the like are employed interchangeably throughout the subject specification, unless context warrants particular distinction(s) among the terms. It should be appreciated that such terms can refer to human entities, associated devices, or automated components supported through artificial intelligence (e.g., a capacity to make inference based on complex mathematical formalisms) which can provide simulated vision, sound recognition and so forth. In addition, the terms "wireless network" and
"network" are used interchangeable in the subject application, when context wherein the term is utilized warrants distinction for clarity purposes such distinction is made explicit.

Moreover, the word "exemplary" is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Rather, use of the word exemplary is intended to present concepts in a concrete fashion. As used in this application, the term "or" is intended to mean an inclusive "or" rather than an exclusive "or". That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from context, "X employs A or B" is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. In addition, the articles "a" and "an" as used in this application and the appended claims should generally be construed to mean "one or more" unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form.

In addition, while a particular feature may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms "includes" and "including" and variants thereof are used in either the detailed description or the claims, these terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising.

The above descriptions of various embodiments of the subject disclosure and corresponding figures and what is described in the Abstract, are described herein for illustrative purposes, and are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosed embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It is to be understood that one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that other embodiments having modifications, permutations, combinations, and additions can be implemented for performing the same, similar, alternative, or substitute functions of the disclosed subject matter, and are therefore considered within the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, the disclosed subject matter should not be limited to any single embodiment described herein, but rather should be construed in breadth and scope in accordance with the claims below.

It may be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an" and "the" comprise plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

References within the specification to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "embodiments", or "one or more embodiments" are intended to indicate that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is comprised in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The appearance of such phrases in various places within the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Further, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others.

It should be noted that, when employed in the present disclosure, the terms "comprises,"
"comprising," and other derivatives from the root term "comprise" are intended to be open-ended terms that specify the presence of any stated features, elements, integers, steps, or components, and are not intended to preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, integers, steps, components, or groups thereof.

Detailed embodiments are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary, which may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims.

Claim 1:
A method comprising:
receiving (<NUM>), by a processor of a wearable electronic device (<NUM>), a first message indicative of an initiation of an event on a first device (<NUM>), wherein the first device (<NUM>) is communicatively coupled to a second device (<NUM>) and the second device (<NUM>) is communicatively coupled to the wearable electronic device (<NUM>);
in response to receiving the first message indicating occurrence of the event on the first device (<NUM>), pausing (<NUM>), by the processor, an ongoing workflow operation executing on at least one of the second device (<NUM>) and the wearable electronic device (<NUM>);
receiving (<NUM>), by the processor, a first disconnection request from the second device (<NUM>), wherein the first disconnection request is to terminate a first connection between the wearable electronic device (<NUM>) and the second device (<NUM>);
in response to receiving the first disconnection request, sending (<NUM>), by the processor, a first connection request to the first device (<NUM>) to communicatively couple the wearable electronic device (<NUM>) with the first device (<NUM>);
receiving (<NUM>), by the processor, a second message indicative of completion of the event on the first device (<NUM>);
receiving (<NUM>), by the processor, a second disconnection request from the first device (<NUM>), wherein the second disconnection request is to terminate a second connection between the wearable electronic device (<NUM>) and the first device (<NUM>);
sending (<NUM>), by the processor, a second connection request to communicatively couple the wearable electronic device (<NUM>) to the second device (<NUM>); and
resuming (<NUM>) the workflow operation on at least one of the second device (<NUM>) and the wearable electronic device (<NUM>).