PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-8963803-B2
Application Number: US-201113250052-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Method for synchronizing content displayed on multiple devices in an array

Abstract:
A method comprising providing multiple video units in an array, playing video content on the video units in a synchronized manner, and detecting when one of the video units is removed from the array. In response to detecting removal of the video unit, the video content played on the video units remaining in the array in a synchronized manner is adjusted.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A method for displaying video content on a plurality of video units in an array, comprising:
 synchronizing the video content displayed across the plurality of video units in the array; 
 detecting whether a video unit of the plurality of video units has been removed from the array, wherein detecting whether the video unit has been removed comprises receiving a wireless message from the video unit indicating that the video unit has been removed from the array; and 
 in response to receiving the wireless message indicating that the video unit has been removed from the array, synchronizing the video content displayed across the plurality of video units remaining in the array. 
 
     
     
       2. The method of  claim 1  wherein the video content is stored on the plurality of video units. 
     
     
       3. The method of  claim 1  wherein the plurality of video units are wirelessly powered. 
     
     
       4. The method of  claim 1  wherein the plurality of video units comprises a master video unit. 
     
     
       5. The method of  claim 4  wherein synchronizing the video content displayed across the plurality of video units in the array comprises synchronizing the plurality of video units temporally with the master video unit. 
     
     
       6. The method of  claim 4  further comprising:
 determining whether the master video unit has been removed from the array; and 
 in response to determining that the master video unit has been removed from the array, selecting a master video unit from the plurality of video units remaining in the array. 
 
     
     
       7. The method of  claim 1  further comprising:
 determining the position of each video unit remaining in the array. 
 
     
     
       8. The method of  claim 1  wherein synchronizing the video content displayed across the plurality of video units further comprises synchronizing the video content displayed across the plurality of video units such that the video content moves sequentially from a video unit in the array to an adjacent video unit in the array. 
     
     
       9. The method of  claim 1 , wherein detecting whether a video unit of the plurality of video units has been removed from the array comprises detecting a decrease in voltage. 
     
     
       10. The method of  claim 1 , wherein transmitting the message to the video units remaining in the array comprises transmitting a message to the video units remaining in the array to indicate that the video unit has been removed from array. 
     
     
       11. A method for displaying video content on a video unit that is part of an array of video units, comprising:
 detecting whether the video unit has been removed from the array of video units, wherein the array of video units plays video content in a synchronized manner; 
 in response to detecting that the video unit has been removed from the array of video units, wirelessly transmitting information to the video units remaining in the array; and 
 in response to detecting that the video unit has been removed from the array of video units, playing video content on the video unit that is specific to the video unit and is not synchronized with the video content played on the video units remaining in the array. 
 
     
     
       12. The method of  claim 11  wherein the video content specific to the video unit is stored on the video unit. 
     
     
       13. The method of  claim 11  wherein the array of video units are wirelessly powered. 
     
     
       14. The method of  claim 13  wherein detecting that the video unit is removed from the array of video units further comprises determining that the removed video unit is not receiving wireless power. 
     
     
       15. The method of  claim 11  further comprising:
 detecting that the removed video unit has been returned to the array of video units; and 
 playing video content on the returned video unit in a synchronized manner with the array of video units. 
 
     
     
       16. The method of  claim 15 , wherein detecting that the removed video unit has been returned to the array of video units comprises detecting an increase in voltage. 
     
     
       17. A video unit comprising:
 a display screen; 
 a processor; and 
 a memory, wherein the memory is programmed to carry out a method comprising:
 detecting that the video unit is removed from an array of video units playing video content in synchronized manner; 
 in response to detecting that the video unit is removed from the array of video units, wirelessly transmitting information to the video units remaining in the array; and 
 in response to detecting, playing video content on the display screen that is specific to the video unit and is not synchronized with the video content played on the video units remaining in the array. 
 
 
     
     
       18. The video unit of  claim 17  wherein the video content specific to the video unit is stored on the video unit. 
     
     
       19. The video unit of  claim 17  wherein the video unit is wirelessly powered. 
     
     
       20. The video unit of  claim 17  wherein detecting that the video unit is removed from the video unit further comprises detecting that the video unit is not receiving wireless power. 
     
     
       21. The video unit of  claim 17 , wherein wirelessly transmitting information to the video units remaining in the array comprises wirelessly transmitting a message to the video units remaining in the array to indicate that the video unit has been removed from the array. 
     
     
       22. A first video unit, wherein the first video unit is part of an array of video units that plays video content in a synchronized manner, comprising:
 a display screen that displays video content; 
 a processor; and 
 a memory, wherein the memory is programmed to carry out a method comprising:
 receiving a wireless message from a second video unit indicating that the second video unit is removed from the array of video units playing video content in a synchronized manner; and 
 in response to receiving the wireless message that the second video has been removed from the array of video units, adjusting the video content displayed on the display screen. 
 
 
     
     
       23. The first video unit of  claim 22  wherein the method carried out by the memory further comprises:
 determining that there is a master video unit remaining in the array of video units; 
 requesting temporal data from the master video unit; 
 receiving temporal data from the master video unit; and 
 playing video content on the display screen that is synchronized with the master video unit. 
 
     
     
       24. The first video unit of  claim 22  wherein the method carried out by the memory further comprises:
 determining that the removed video unit is a master video unit, wherein the master video unit is a first master video unit; 
 broadcasting an identifier unique to the first video unit; 
 detecting that a second master video unit has been selected; 
 requesting temporal data from the second master video unit; 
 receiving temporal data from the second master video unit; and 
 playing video content on the display screen that is synchronized with the second master video unit.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The present disclosure relates generally to displaying video content on one or more video units. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to displaying synchronized content on one or more video units arranged in an array to provide a unified experience, and dynamically adjusting content displayed on the video units when a video unit is removed from the array. 
     The ability to play content on multiple devices has been around for a number years. A “video wall,” for example, consists of multiple video units such as computer monitors, video projectors, or television sets tiled together contiguously in order to form a single large screen. Such video walls offer benefits such as the ability to customize tile layouts in addition to greater screen area and pixel density per unit cost. However, the content displayed on video walls, as with other existing tiled display technology, is static in nature. Displayed content is predetermined and the tiled video units are unable to communicate with each other or dynamically adjust the content displayed on one or more of the units, if for example, one or more of the units is removed from the wall. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Embodiments of the invention provide improved methods of playing video content on a video unit, such as the synchronization of video content played on multiple video units in an array, and the displaying of specific video content on a video unit when removed from the array. 
     In one particular embodiment, multiple video units are provided in an array with each video unit playing video content in a synchronized manner. When removal of one of the video units from the array is detected, the video content played on the video units remaining in the array in a synchronized manner. 
     In another embodiment, the removal of a first video unit from an array of video units playing video content in a synchronized manner is detected. In response to detecting removal from the array, video content is played on the first video unit that is specific to the first video unit. The video content played on the first video unit is not synchronized with the video content displayed on the video units remaining in the array. 
     In yet another embodiment of the invention, a base unit is provided on which multiple video units are positioned in an array. The base unit wirelessly powers the video units, and a power signal is manipulated to determine the location of the video units positioned on the base unit. 
     To better understand the nature and advantages of the present invention, reference should be made to the following description and the accompanying figures. It is to be understood, however, that each of the figures is provided for the purpose of illustration only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of the scope of the present invention. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The above and other advantages of the present invention will be apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters refer to like parts throughout and in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a simplified perspective view of a video unit array  100  according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a simplified perspective view of a video unit array  200  according to another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIGS. 3A-3C  are simplified perspective views of a video unit array  300  with video units playing video content in a synchronized manner according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIGS. 4A-4C  are simplified perspective views of a video unit array  300  playing video content in a synchronized manner according to another embodiment of the invention; 
         FIGS. 5A-5C  are simplified perspective views of a video unit array  300  with a video unit  302 ( b ) removed from the array playing video content that is specific to the video unit and not synchronized with the video content played on the video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ) remaining in the array according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 6  is a flow diagram of a process  600  usable by a video unit to play synchronized and specific video content according to an embodiment of the invention; 
         FIG. 7  is a flow diagram of a process  700  usable by a video unit to synchronize video content according to an embodiment of the invention; and 
         FIG. 8  is a simplified block diagram  800  of hardware included in video units  302 ( a )-( d ) and base station  310  for determining base unit location of video units  302 ( a )-( d ) according to an embodiment of the invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Embodiments of the present invention pertain to playing video content on one or more video units arranged in an array in a synchronized manner, and dynamically adjusting the video content when a video unit is removed from the array. Embodiments of the invention can dynamically adjust the video content by initiating a new, unsynchronized video on the video unit removed from the display and/or by adjusting the timing of the synchronized video content played on the video units remaining in the array. 
     As used herein, a “video unit” can include any device that may be used to present video content. Such devices may include, for example, portable music players (e.g., Apple&#39;s iPod devices), portable video players (e.g., portable DVD players), smart phones or other cellular phones (e.g., Apple&#39;s iPhone devices), projection systems, PDAs, desktop computers (e.g., Apple&#39;s iMac devices), laptop computers (e.g., Apple&#39;s MacBook devices), tablet or other mobile computers (e.g., Apple&#39;s iPad devices), televisions, etc. Some of these devices may also be configured to provide audio or other sensory output. 
       FIG. 1  is a simplified perspective view of a video unit array  100  according to an embodiment of the invention. The video unit array  100  can include a row of video units  102 ( a )-( d ) with display screens  104 ( a )-( d ) that may be used to display video content. The video units  102 ( a )-( c ) can be suspended in casings  106 ( a )-( d ) supported by a base unit  110 . The base unit  110  can include recesses  108 ( a )-( d ) in which the casings  106 ( a )-( d ) suspending the video units  102 ( a )-( d ) can be positioned. The casings  106 ( a )-( d ) and base unit  110  can be comprised of any suitable material such as cardboard, plastic, metal, a composite, or any combination thereof. Casings  106 ( a )-( d ) can allow for display screens  104 ( a )-( d ) to be visible to an observer. For example, casings  106 ( a )-( d ) can include a transparent (e.g., plastic or glass) window or a “cut-out” portion allowing an observer to view the video content played on display screens  104 ( a )-( d ). 
     Video units  102 ( a )-( d ), casings  106 ( a )-( d ), and base unit  110  can include hardware configured to charge a battery (not shown) included in video units  102 ( a )-( d ) when casings  106 ( a )-( d ) are positioned in recesses  108 ( a )-( d ) of base unit  110 . Base unit  110  can be coupled to a power source and can deliver power to video units  102 ( a )-( d ) using any suitable means such as wireless energy transfer (e.g., inductive coupling, magnetic resonance, etc.) and/or conductive charging (e.g., direct coupling utilizing metallic contacts). Video units  102 ( a )-( d ) can also include a processor and a memory programmed to carry out methods according to various embodiments of the invention. 
     In an alternative embodiment, video units  102 ( a )-( d ) can be directly supported by base unit  110  when positioned in recesses  108 ( a )-( d ). Video units  102 ( a )-( d ) and base unit  110  can include hardware configured to charge a battery included in video units  102 ( a )-( d ) when positioned in recesses  108 ( a )-( d ) of base unit  110  using any of the charging means described above. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , which is a simplified perspective view of a video unit array  200  according to another embodiment of the invention, video unit array  200  can include multiple rows of video units  202 ( a )-( l ) with display screens  204 ( a )-( l ). Video units  202 ( a )-( l ) can be suspended in casings  206 ( a )-( l ) which can be positioned in recesses  208 ( a )-( l ) in base units  210 ( a )-( c ). Casings  206 ( a )-( l ) and base units  210 ( a )-( c ) can be comprised of any suitable material, as described above. Video units  202 ( a )-( l ), casings  206 ( a )-( l ), and base units  210 ( a )-( c ) can include hardware configured to charge a battery (not shown) included in video units  202 ( a )-( l ) when positioned in recesses  208 ( a )-( l ) of base units  110 ( a )-( c ) using any of the charging means described above. 
     It should be noted that although  FIG. 1  illustrates a single base unit supporting four video units and  FIG. 2  illustrates three base units each supporting four video units, video unit arrays in embodiments of the invention can include any number of base units and video units in any suitable combination. For example, video units and base units can be arranged in a 3-dimensional array having depth such that a moving object, for example, can be displayed on the video units in a synchronized manner. In such an arrangement, the moving object can appear to an observer to “move” up, down, and across the video unit array as well as back and forth across its depth. Additionally, in some embodiments of the invention, casings are not required, and video units can instead be positioned directly into a base unit to display synchronized video content. 
       FIGS. 3A-3C  are simplified perspective views of a video unit array  300  with video units  302 ( a )-( d ) playing video content in a synchronized manner according to an embodiment of the invention. Video units  302 ( a )-( d ) can include a storage medium (not shown) for storing video content to be displayed on display screens  304 ( a )-( d ). For example, video units  302 ( a )-( d ) can store software (and include hardware) for displaying a moving image  312  sequentially on display screens  304 ( a )-( d ). To illustrate, at a first moment in time, as illustrated in  FIG. 3A , moving image  312  can be displayed on display screen  304 ( a ) of video unit  302 ( a ). At a second moment in time, as illustrated in  FIG. 3B , a portion of moving image  312  can appear on display screen  304 ( a ) of video unit  302 ( a ), and another portion of moving image  312  can appear on display screen  304 ( b ) of video unit  302 ( b ). At a third moment in time, as illustrated in  FIG. 3C , moving image  312  can be entirely displayed on display screen  304 ( b ) of video unit  302 ( b ). 
     The sequential displaying of moving image  312  on display screen  304 ( a ) and display screen  304 ( b ) can appear to an observer that the moving image  312  is “moving” from display screen  304 ( a ) to display screen  304 ( b ). Such smooth and seamless transition from one video unit to another may require temporal synchronization amongst the video units. Temporal synchronization can be accomplished in a number of different ways. In one embodiment of the invention, a video unit can be a master video unit that provides temporal data to the other video units in the array. For example, video unit  302 ( a ) can be a master video unit that provides temporal data to video units  302 ( b )-( d ). Periodically, video units  302 ( b )-( d ) may request temporal data from master video unit  302 ( a ), and in response, master video unit  302 ( a ) can transmit the temporal data to video units  302 ( b )-( d ). Video units  302 ( b )-( d ) can then synchronize temporally with master video unit  302 ( a ). Temporal synchronization is discussed in further detail below with respect to  FIG. 7 . 
     Spatial synchronization may also be required to create the effect of images moving from one display screen to another. In order to synchronize spatially, video units  302 ( a )-( d ) may determine their specific location on base unit  310  (i.e. determine the recesses  308 ( a )-( d ) in which each of video units  302 ( a )-( d ) are positioned). Determining base unit location can be accomplished in a number of different ways, as described in further detail below with respect to  FIG. 8 . 
     In other embodiments of the invention, video units  302 ( a )-( d ) in video array  300  can play identical video content in a synchronized manner. As described above, temporal synchronization can be accomplished in a number of ways. For example, to maintain temporal synchronization amongst the video content played on display screens  304 ( a )-( d ), a video unit can be a master unit that provides temporal data to the other video units in video array  300 . To illustrate, video unit  302 ( b ) can be a master video unit that provides temporal data to video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ). Periodically, video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ) may request temporal data from master video unit  302 ( b ), and in response, master video unit  302 ( b ) can transmit the temporal data to video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ). Video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ) can then synchronize temporally with master video unit  302 ( b ). Such temporal synchronization can allow for identical content to be played on display screens  304 ( a )-( d ) simultaneously, thus creating a unified experience for an observer. 
     In some embodiments of the invention, video content stored on the video units can be played in an endless loop. To illustrate, the video units can play video content that is 10 seconds long, and after playing for 10 seconds, the video content can be restarted. Alternatively, after playing for 10 seconds, the video units can play different video content that is synchronized across each of the video units in the array. 
       FIGS. 4A-4C  are simplified perspective views of video unit array  300  playing video content in a synchronized manner according to another embodiment of the invention. Video unit array  300  is the same as video unit array  300  shown in  FIGS. 3A-3C , except that in  FIGS. 4A-4C , video unit  302 ( b ) has been removed. In response to removal of video unit  302 ( b ), video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ) can adjust the video content played on display screens  304 ( a ) and  304 ( c )-( d ) to maintain temporal and spatial synchronization. To illustrate, at a first moment in time, as illustrated in  FIG. 4A , moving image  312  can be displayed on display screen  304 ( a ) of video unit  302 ( a ). At a second moment in time, as illustrated in  FIG. 4B , a portion of moving image  312  can appear on display screen  304 ( a ) of video unit  302 ( a ), and another portion of moving image  312  can appear on display screen  304 ( c ) of video unit  302 ( c ). At a third moment in time, as illustrated in  FIG. 3C , moving image  312  can be entirely displayed on display screen  304 ( c ) of video unit  302 ( c ). 
     In another embodiment of the invention, video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ) can play identical video content in a synchronized manner before and after video unit  302 ( b ) is removed from video unit array  300 . 
     In yet another embodiment of the invention, video units  302 ( a )-( d ) can adjust the video content played on display screens  304 ( a )-( d ) depending on how many video units remain in the array. For example, if video units  302 ( a )-( d ) are all positioned in base unit  310 , a first video content can be played on display screens  304 ( a )-( d ). If video unit  302 ( b ) is removed, video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ) can play a second video content on display screens  304 ( a ) and  304 ( c )-( d ). If video unit  302 ( a ) is then removed, video units  302 ( c )-( d ) can play a third video content on display screens  304 ( c )-( d ). Lastly, if video unit  302 ( c ) or  302 ( d ) is then removed, the video unit remaining in the array can play a fourth video content on its display screen. 
     To adjust the video content played on display screens  304 ( a ) and  304 ( c )-( d ) in response to the removal of video unit  302 ( b ), video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ) can detect that video unit  302 ( b ) has been removed. Detecting when a video unit has been removed from video unit array  300  can be accomplished in a number of different ways. To illustrate, video unit  302 ( b ) can be removed from recess  308 ( b ) in base unit  310 . Once removed, video unit  302 ( b ) may no longer be receiving power from base unit  310 . As a result, base unit  310  may detect a decrease in voltage indicating that video unit  302 ( b ) has been removed. Base unit  310  can then transmit a message to video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ) indicating that video unit  302 ( b ) has been removed from base unit  310 . The message can be transmitted using Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11 (e.g., WiFi), or any other suitable means of electronic communication. Once the message is received, video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ) can synchronize (temporally and spatially) the displayed video content to account for the absence of video unit  302 ( b ). If, for example, video unit  302 ( a ) is a master video unit, video units  302 ( c )-( d ) can periodically request temporal data from video unit  302 ( a ) to maintain temporal synchronization (as described in further detail below) until video unit  302 ( b ) is returned to recess  308 ( b ). Once returned, base unit  310  can detect an increase in voltage indicating that video unit  302 ( b ) has been returned. Base unit  310  can then transmit a message to video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ) indicating that video unit  302 ( b ) has been re-positioned in recess  308 ( b ). Video units  302 ( a )-( d ) can then play synchronized video content as illustrated in  FIGS. 3A-3C , and as described above. 
     In another embodiment of the invention, detecting when a video unit has been removed from video unit array  300  can be accomplished through communication between a removed video unit with the video units remaining in the array. To illustrate, video unit  302 ( b ) can be removed from recess  308 ( b ) in base unit  310 . Video unit  302 ( b ) can detect that it has been removed, as described below with respect to  FIGS. 5A-5C . In response to detecting its removal, video unit  302 ( b ) can transmit a message to video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ) indicating that it has been removed from base unit  310 . The message can be transmitted using Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11 (e.g., WiFi), or any other suitable means of electronic communication. Once the message is received, video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ) can synchronize (temporally and spatially) the displayed video content to account for the absence of video unit  302 ( b ). Once returned to video unit array  300 , video unit  302 ( b ) can transmit another message to video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ) indicating that it has been returned. Video units  302 ( a )-( d ) can then play synchronized video content as illustrated in  FIGS. 3A-3C , and as described above. 
       FIGS. 5A-5C  are simplified perspective views of a video unit array  300  with a video unit  302 ( b ) removed from the array playing video content  502  that is specific to the video unit and not synchronized with the video content played on video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ) remaining in the array according to an embodiment of the invention. Upon removal from base unit  310 , each of video units  302 ( a )-( d ) can detect that they are no longer part of video unit array  300  and can play specific video content. The video content specific to the removed video unit(s) can be different than the synchronized video content playing on the video units remaining in video unit array  300 . To illustrate, at a first moment in time, as illustrated in  FIG. 5A , video units  302 ( a )-( d ) can be positioned in recesses  308 ( a )-( d ), respectively. A moving image  312  can be displayed on display screen  304 ( a ) of video unit  302 ( a ). At a second moment in time, as illustrated in  FIG. 5B , casings  306 ( b ) suspending video unit  302 ( b ) can be removed from recess  308 ( b ) in base unit  310 . Video unit  302 ( b ) can detect that it has been removed from base unit  310 , and in response, play video content  502  specific to video unit  302 ( b ). For example, video content describing the features or capabilities of video unit  302 ( b ) can be played on display screen  304 ( b ). As described above, the video units remaining in base unit  310  (e.g., video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d )) can detect the removal of video unit  302 ( b ). Video content played on video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ) can then be adjusted to maintain temporal and spatial synchronization, as described above. For example, a portion of moving image  312  can appear on display screen  304 ( a ) of video unit  302 ( a ), and another portion of moving image  312  can appear on display screen  304 ( c ) of video unit  302 ( c ). At a third moment in time, as illustrated in  FIG. 5C , video unit  302 ( b ) can be returned to base unit  310  by being re-positioned in recess  308 ( b ). Video unit  302 ( b ), in addition to video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ), can detect that it has been re-positioned in recess  308 ( b ) of base unit  310 . In response to detecting the return of video unit  302 ( b ), the video content played on display screens  304 ( a )-( d ) of video units  302 ( a )-( d ) can be re-synchronized temporally and spatially, as described above. 
     As seen in  FIG. 5B , the video content  502  played on display screen  304 ( b ) of video unit  302 ( b ) can be specific to video unit  302 ( b ) and not synchronized with video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ). To determine when to play video content  502  specific to video unit  302 ( b ), video unit  302 ( b ) can detect when it has been removed from base unit  310 . This detection can be accomplished in a number of different ways. In one embodiment of the invention, video unit  302 ( b ) no longer receives wireless power when removed from base unit  310 . Upon detecting the loss of wireless power, video unit  302 ( b ) may then play video content  502  on display screen  304 ( b ). When video unit  302 ( b ) is returned to base unit  310  by being re-positioned in recess  308 ( b ), video unit  302 ( b ) can detect that it is receiving wireless power from base unit  310 , and then play video content in a synchronized manner with video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ). 
     In another embodiment, video unit  302 ( b ) (or casing  308 ( b )) can include an accelerometer capable of detecting the movement associated with removing video unit  302 ( b ) from base unit  310 . In response to detecting the removal of video unit  302 ( b ), video content  502  can be played on display screen  304 ( b ). When video unit  302 ( b ) is returned to base unit  310 , the accelerometer can detect the movement associated with re-positioning video unit  302 ( b ) in recess  308 ( b ) of base unit  310 . In response to detecting the return of video unit  302 ( b ) to base unit  310 , the video content played on display screen  304 ( b ) can be re-synchronized with video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ). 
     In embodiments of the invention, an accelerometer can also be used to create various visual effects. For example, video unit  302 ( b ) can include software to create visual effects when video unit  302 ( b ) is removed from or returned to base unit  310 . In one embodiment, the video content played on display screen  304 ( b ) at the time of removal or return can be adjusted to appear to an observer as if the video content is “falling off” display screen  304 ( b ). Any other suitable visual effects making use of an accelerometer can be displayed on display screens  304 ( a )-( d ). 
     As described above, a video unit can detect when it has been removed from base unit  310  using a number of different methods, including detecting the loss of wireless power and using an accelerometer to detect the movement associate with removing a video unit from base unit  310 . As also described above, a video unit can detect that it is currently positioned on base unit  310  using similar methods. Additionally, a video unit that is currently positioned on base unit  310  can detect that other video units are also positioned on base unit  310  in a number of different ways. For example, in an embodiment of the invention, video units  302 ( a )-( d ) can broadcast a message indicating that each unit is positioned on base unit  310 . To illustrate, video units  302 ( b )-( d ) can broadcast a message indicating that they are positioned on base unit  310 , and this message can be received by video unit  302 ( a ). Upon receipt, video unit  302 ( a ) will be informed that video units  302 ( b )-( d ) are also positioned on base unit  310 , and that video unit  302 ( a ) is part of a video unit array (e.g., video unit array  300 ) that also includes video units  302 ( b )-( d ). 
       FIG. 6  is a flow diagram of a process  600  usable by a video unit to play synchronized and specific video content according to an embodiment of the invention. Process  600  can be performed by any of the video units illustrated in  FIGS. 1-5C . 
     At decision  602 , video unit  302 ( b ), for example, can continuously or periodically determine whether it is part of video unit array  300 . As described above, determining whether a video unit is part of a video unit array can be accomplished in a number of different ways. For example, video unit  302 ( b ) can periodically determine whether it is receiving wireless power from base unit  310  (e.g., whether it is currently positioned in recess  308 ( b ) of base unit  310 ). If video unit  302 ( b ) is receiving wireless power, this can indicate to video unit  302 ( b ) that it is part of video unit array  300 . In another embodiment, as described above, video unit  302 ( b ) can utilize accelerometer data to determine whether it is currently located on base unit  310  and part of video unit array  300 . 
     If at decision  602 , video unit  302 ( b ) determines that it is currently not part of video unit array  300  (e.g., that it has been removed from recess  308 ( b ) of base unit  310 ), the process can proceed to block  604 . 
     At block  604 , video unit  302 ( b ) can start or continue to play video content  502  specific to video unit  302 ( b ) and not synchronized with the video content played on display screens  304 ( a ) and  304 ( c )-( d ) of video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ). For example, if video unit  302 ( b ) was previously part of video unit array  300  and playing video content synchronized with video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ), video unit  302 ( b ) can start to play video content  502  specific to video unit  302 ( b ) and not synchronized with the video content played on video units  302 ( a ) and  302 ( c )-( d ). Alternatively, if video unit  302 ( b ) was previously playing video content  502  specific to video unit  302 ( b ), it can continue to play video content  502 . As such, video unit  302 ( b ) can play video content  502  continuously until it is returned to base unit  310  and it determines that it is once again part of video unit array  300 . 
     If at decision  602 , video unit  302 ( b ) determines that it is currently part of video unit array  300  (e.g., that it is positioned in recess  308 ( b ) of base unit  310 ), the process can proceed to decision  606 . 
     At decision  606 , video unit  302 ( b ) can determine whether there is a master video unit currently positioned on base unit  310 . A master video unit can continuously or periodically communicate with the other video units positioned on base unit  310  using Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11 (e.g., WiFi), or any other suitable means of electronic communication to inform the other video units that it is the master video unit. 
     If at decision  606 , video unit  302 ( b ) determines that there is a master video unit currently positioned on base unit  310 , the process can proceed to block  610 . For example, video unit  302 ( b ) may receive an indication from video unit  302 ( a ) that it is the master video unit, and then proceed to block  610 . 
     At block  610 , video unit  302 ( b ) can communicate with master video unit  302 ( a ) to play video content in a synchronized manner. Synchronization with a master video unit, according to one embodiment of the invention, is described in further detail below with respect to  FIG. 7 . 
     If at decision  606 , video unit  302 ( b ) determines that there is no master unit currently positioned on base unit  310 , the process can proceed to block  608 . For example, video unit  302 ( b ) may not receive an indication within a specific period of time (e.g., ten milliseconds) from another video unit that there is a master video unit currently positioned on base unit  310 , and then proceed to block  608 . 
     At block  608 , a new master video unit can be nominated or selected from the video units currently positioned on base unit  310 . The selection process can be accomplished in a number of different ways. In one embodiment of the invention, video units  302 ( a )-( d ) may each be associated with a unique identifier. For example, each video unit may be assigned a UUID which is a 128 bit global unique identifier specific to hardware included in each video unit. Each video unit positioned on base unit  310  can broadcast their unique identifier using Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11 (e.g., WiFi), or any other suitable means of electronic communication to the other video units positioned on base unit  310 . In an embodiment of the invention, the video unit with the lowest value unique identifier can be selected to be the master video unit. Alternatively, the video unit with the highest value unique identifier can be selected to be the master video unit. 
     Once a master video unit is selected, the process can proceed to block  610 . For example, if video unit  302 ( c ) is selected to be the master video unit, then video units  302 ( a )-( b ) and  302 ( d ) can communicate with master video unit  302 ( c ) to play video content in a synchronized manner. 
       FIG. 7  is a flow diagram of a process  700  usable by a video unit to synchronize video content according to an embodiment of the invention (i.e. block  610  in process  600 ). Process  700  can be performed by any of the video units illustrated in  FIGS. 1-5C . 
     At decision  702 , video unit  302 ( b ), for example, can continuously or periodically determine whether it must check for synchronization with the master video device. For example, video unit  302 ( b ) may check for synchronization with master video unit  302 ( c ) once every second. Each time video unit  302 ( b ) checks for synchronization with master video unit  302 ( c ), it can create a time stamp indicating when the check was conducted. If more than one second has passed since video unit  302 ( b ) has checked for synchronization with master video unit  302 ( c ), the process can proceed to block  704 . 
     At block  704 , video unit  302 ( b ) can transmit a message to master video unit  302 ( c ) requesting the current time. This message can be transmitted using Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11 (e.g., WiFi), or any other suitable means of electronic communication. Upon transmitting the request for current time to master video unit  302 ( c ), video unit  302 ( b ) can create a time stamp indicating the time at which the request was sent, and the process can proceed to block  706 . 
     At block  706 , video unit  302 ( b ) can receive a message including the current time from master video unit  302 ( c ). The message can be transmitted using Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11 (e.g., WiFi), or any other suitable means of electronic communication. Once received, video unit can adjust the current time transmitted from master video unit  302 ( c ) to account for message travel time. In one embodiment of the invention, video unit  302 ( b ) can approximate message travel time by dividing the time that passed between sending the request (e.g., when the time stamp was created) and receiving the current time by two. The approximate message travel time can be added to the current time as transmitted from master video unit  302 ( c ), and video unit  302 ( b ) can proceed to block  708 . In some embodiments of the invention, if the time that passes between video unit  302 ( b ) sending the request and receiving the current time from master video unit  302 ( c ) is greater than some threshold value, video unit  302 ( b ) can disregard the temporal data received from master video unit  302 ( c ). Video unit  302 ( b ) can then proceed to block  708  assuming the previous synchronized time (e.g., the most recent current adjusted time) further adjusted for any time that has passed since the last synchronization as determined independently by video unit  302 ( b ). 
     At block  708 , video unit  302 ( b ) can temporally synchronize video content played on display screen  304 ( b ) with the current time as received from master video unit  302 ( c ) and as adjusted for approximate travel time. Synchronization can be accomplished in a number of different ways depending on the time experienced by video unit  302 ( b ). For example, if video unit  302 ( b ) is “behind” the current adjusted time, the video content played on displayed screen  304 ( b ) can be “sped up” for a determined period of time to smoothly synchronize with master video unit  304 ( c ). In other words, the video content played on display screen  304 ( b ) can be played at an increased rate (e.g., 1.5, 2, or 3 times the normal rate) until it is temporally synchronized with the current adjusted time. If video unit  302 ( b ) is “ahead” of the current adjusted time, the video content played on display screen  304 ( b ) can be “slowed down” for a determined period of time. In other words, the video content played on display screen  304 ( b ) can be played at a decreased rate (e.g., 0.75, 0.5, or 0.33 times the normal rate) until it is temporally synchronized with the current adjusted time. If, for example, video unit  302 ( b ) is ahead or behind the current adjusted time by a threshold value, the video content played on display screen  304 ( b ) can be immediately adjusted to synchronize with master video unit  302 ( c ). For example, the video content played on display screen  304 ( b ) can be skipped immediately to the correct temporal synchronization point. During temporal synchronization, video unit  302 ( b ) can also add or subtract an additional time increment (e.g., an offset) to account for any delay associated with processing the synchronization algorithm. 
     In embodiments of the invention, as described above, video units  302 ( a )-( b ) may be configured to provide audio content in addition to video content. At block  708 , when the video content is slowed down, sped up, or immediately adjusted during the temporal synchronization process, audio content can also be synchronized in a number of different ways. For example, an audio content filtering process (e.g., vari-speed filtering) can be utilized to speed up or slow down the audio content without changing the pitch to provide for smooth synchronization of the audio content. 
     As discussed above with respect to  FIGS. 3A-3C , spatial synchronization, in addition to temporal synchronization, can be used to create the effect of images moving from one display screen to another. In order to synchronize spatially, video units  302 ( a )-( d ) can each determine their specific location in base unit  310  (i.e. determine the recesses  308 ( a )-( d ) on base unit  310  in which each of video units  302 ( a )-( d ) are positioned). 
       FIG. 8  is a simplified block diagram of hardware included in video units  302 ( a )-( d ) and base station  310  for determining base unit location of video units  302 ( a )-( d ) according to one embodiment of the invention. As seen in  FIG. 8 , casings  306 ( a )-( d ) suspending video units  302 ( a )-( d ) can include DC output switches  812 ( a )-( d ), AC to DC rectifiers  814 ( a )-( d ), inductive coils/capacitive networks  816 ( a )-( d ), and voltage and current detectors  818 ( a )-( d ). Base unit  310  including recesses  308 ( a )-( d ) can also include inductive coils/capacitive network  822 ( a )-( d ), AC switches  824 ( a )-( d ), DC power switches  826 ( a )-( d ), voltage and current detectors  828 ( a )-( d ), and a host system  830 . Base unit  310  can also be electronically coupled to a DC power source  832 . 
     Determining base unit location can be accomplished in a number of different ways. In some embodiments of the invention, base unit location can be determined by manipulating the power signal delivered wirelessly to video units  302 ( a )-( d ). For example, the power signal received from the DC power source  832  can be modulated by a modulator in the host system  830 . The modulated signal, as provided by the host system  830 , can encode data describing base unit locations that correspond to recesses  308 ( a )-( d ) in which video units  302 ( a )-( d ) can be positioned. The modulated signal can be transmitted wirelessly from inductive coil/capacitive network  822 ( a ) included in base unit  310  to inductive coils/capacitive networks  816 ( a )-( d ) included in casings  306 ( a )-( d ) over communication channels  820 ( a )-( d ). Casings  306 ( a )-( d ) can each include a demodulator (not shown) for decoding the encoded data describing base unit locations as carried by the modulated power signal. Once decoded, the data describing base unit locations can be transmitted to video units  302 ( a )-( d ), which can then synchronize spatially with a master video unit in video unit array  300 . 
     In another embodiment of the invention, base unit location can be determined by toggling the power load at the receiving side of the wireless power signal. To illustrate, DC output switches  812 ( a ) in casing  306 ( a ) can cut off the power being delivered to video unit  302 ( a ). When power delivery is cut off, voltage and current detector  828 ( a ) may experience a decrease in voltage and current. Host system  830  can detect the decrease in voltage and current by receipt of a detect signal  834 ( a ) transmitted by voltage and current detector  828 ( a ). In response to receiving detect signal  834 ( a ), host system  830  can transmit a message identifying base unit location to video unit  302 ( a ) indicating that video unit  302 ( a ) is positioned in recess  308 ( a ). The message identifying base unit location can be transmitted using Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11 (e.g., WiFi), or any other suitable means of electronic communication. 
     In another embodiment of the invention, base unit location can be determined by toggling the power load at the transmission side of the wireless power signal. To illustrate, host system  830  can send control signals  836 ( a )-( d ) to DC power switches  826 ( a )-( d ) in base unit  310 . The control signals  836 ( a )-( d ) can cause the DC power switches  826 ( a )-( d ) to toggle power on and off in a unique pattern to video units  302 ( a )-( d ). For example, the power signal can be toggled in a unique sequence such as  0111  to video unit  302 ( a ),  1011  to video unit  302 ( b ),  1101  to video unit  302 ( c ), and  1110  to video unit  302 ( d ). Host system  830  can time stamp each power toggling event. Voltage and current detectors  818 ( a )-( d ) included in casings  306 ( a )-( d ) can detect the unique power toggle patterns, and video units  302 ( a )-( d ) can timestamp the time at which power toggling is detected. Video units  302 ( a )-( d ) can then transmit a message to host system  830  including the power toggle pattern and the time at which the power toggle was detected. Host system  830  can then match the power toggle patterns and time stamps, and transmit a message to video units  302 ( a )-( d ) indicating that video units  302 ( a )-( d ) are positioned in recesses  308 ( a )-( d ), respectively. Host system  830  and video units  302 ( a )-( d ) can communicate using Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11 (e.g., WiFi), or any other suitable means of electronic communication. 
     In another embodiment of the invention, determining base unit location can be accomplished using radio-frequency identification (RFID). Base unit  310  can include an RFID tag at each base unit location. The RFID tags can include position data identify each base unit location in base unit  310 , and can be passive, active, or battery assisted passive. The casings  306 ( a )-( d ) suspending video units  302 ( a )-( d ) can include a reader component (not shown) for reading the position data from the RFID tags (via radio waves), and can include hardware to transmit to video units  302 ( a )-( d ) the location at which each video unit is positioned on base unit  310 . 
     It should be noted that in  FIG. 8 , any of DC output switches  812 ( a )-( d ), AC to DC rectifiers  814 ( a )-( d ), voltage and current detectors  818 ( a )-( d ), and inductive coils/capacitive networks  816 ( a )-( d ) can be included in video units  302 ( a )-( d ) instead of casings  306 ( a )-( d ). Additionally, any of DC power switches  826 ( a )-( d ), AC switches  824 ( a )-( d ), inductive coils/capacitive networks  822 ( a )-( d ), voltage and current detectors  828 ( a )-( d ), and host system  830  can be located external to base unit  310 . 
     It should also be noted that in other embodiments of the invention, a remote unit (e.g., a remote video unit, server computer, etc.) not positioned on base unit  310  can act as a master device. For example, a server computer capable of communicating with video units  302 ( a )-( d ) via IEEE 802.11 (e.g., WiFi) can perform some or all of the functions of a master video unit as described herein. In some embodiments, synchronization can be accomplished using infrared (IR) or ambient light sensing. A beacon can be placed in the vicinity of base unit  310  that transmits a synchronization signal that can be detected by a camera or proximity sensor included in video units  302 ( a )-( d ). Additionally, the video content played on display screens  304 ( a )-( d ) can be stored remotely instead of on the storage medium included in video units  302 ( a )-( d ). For example, video content can be stored on a remote server and streamed to video units  302 ( a )-( d ) over a network using IEEE 802.11 (e.g., WiFi), for example. The remote server may also be capable of transmitting personalized video content specific to an observer to be played on a video unit when removed from base unit  310  by the observer. 
     As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the essential characteristics thereof. Various configurations described herein may be combined without departing from the present invention. The above described embodiments of the present invention are presented for purposes of illustration and not of limitation. The present invention also can take many forms other than those explicitly described herein. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain, using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific embodiments of the invention described herein. Accordingly, it is emphasized that the invention is not limited to the explicitly disclosed methods, systems and apparatuses, but is intended to include variations to and modifications thereof which are intended to be encompassed by the following claims.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20110930
Publication Date: 20150224
Grant Date: 20150224
Priority Date: 20110930
Inventors: KERR DUNCAN
PRESTON DANIEL T.
KING NICHOLAS V.
CHIN HO CHI ANDREW
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H04N21/4302", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N21/4122", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/1446", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N21/4402", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N21/44227", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N21/436", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G09G2356/00", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N21/436", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N21/44227", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N21/4302", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N21/4122", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N21/436", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N21/4302", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G09G2356/00", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N21/4122", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N21/44227", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N21/4402", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/1446", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F3/1446", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04N21/4402", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 47192084