Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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An apparatus for supporting a mobile electronic display system
Introduction
This invention relates to an apparatus for supporting a mobile electronic
display system.
Advertising is a huge industry in which large amounts of money are often spent
on
various advertising media to convey a desired message. However even the most
expensive and sophisticated advertising campaigns generally rely on display of
information in a "broad brush" manner.
This invention is aimed at providing an apparatus which enables more targeted
and
meaningful advertising to be achieved.
Statements of Invention
According to the invention, there is provided an apparatus for supporting a
mobile
electronic display system, the apparatus comprising a support frame suitable
for being
worn by a person to support a mobile electronic display system, the support
frame
comprising a front support frame part configured to be located at the front of
a person
wearing the support frame, and a rear support frame part configured to be
located at the
rear of a person wearing the support frame. The front and rear parts of the
support frame
assist in distributing the weight of the display system for greater comfort of
the wearer.
In particular the weight of the support frame parts and/or the mobile
electronic display
system will not tend to cause the wearer to lose balance and fall forwards or
backwards.
Because the support frame is worn by the person, this ensures that the display
system has
a high degree of mobility. By using the display system to conduct an
advertising
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campaign, the apparatus of the invention enables highly focused advertising to
be
achieved.
In one embodiment the support frame is configured to support a computer
controlled
display element. Preferably the support frame is configured to support a
wearable
computer controlled display element. Ideally the support frame is configured
to support a
display element facing substantially away from a person wearing the support
frame.
In one case the front support fame part extends substantially across the chest
of a person
wearing the support frame. In another case the rear support frame part extends
substantially across the back of a person wearing the support frame.
Preferably the front
and/or rear support frame part is located below the head of the person wearing
the
support frame. By arranging the support frame close around the torso of the
wearer, this
enhances the stability and comfort of the support frame. In particular the
possibility of
the wearer losing balance or being knocked over, for example due to a gust of
wind is
minimised. This aspect of the invention is further improved due to the fact
that the
support frame parts are below the wearer's head.
The support frame may comprise at least one bearing member configured to
extend over
a shoulder of a person wearing the support frame between the front support
frame part
and the rear support frame part. Preferably the support frame comprises a
first bearing
member configured to extend over a first shoulder and a second bearing member
configured to extend over a second shoulder of a person wearing the support
frame. The
bearing members bear against the shoulders of the wearer to transfer the load
of the
display system to the wearer. Most preferably the front support frame part and
the rear
support frame part are supported by the at least one bearing member. The
support frame
may be substantially "U"-shaped in side-view. Ideally the front support frame
part and
the rear support frame part hang from the at least one bearing member.
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Preferably the front support frame part is substantially fixed relative to the
rear support
frame part. Ideally the support frame is substantially rigid.
In another embodiment the support frame comprises a display holder for
releasably
holding a display element of a mobile electronic display system. Advertising
campaigns
may be effectively conducted using the display element. Conveniently the
display
element may be removed from the display holder for repair and/or replacement.
Ideally
the display holder comprises a first holder part detachably coupled to a
second holder
part. The display holder may define a reception space between the first holder
part and
the second holder part for removably receiving a display element. Most
preferably the
display holder comprises a window for displaying a display element held in the
display
holder. The window is preferably configured to face substantially away from a
person
wearing the support frame. In one case the front support frame part comprises
the display
holder.
In one embodiment the support frame comprises a power source holder for
holding a
power source of a mobile electronic display system. The power source holder
may be
used to safely and securely hold a power source. This is especially important
when the
required power source is bulky and/or heavy, for example to provide power for
a
relatively large advertising display element. Preferably the power source
h~l~ler is
configured to releasably hold a power source. Conveniently the power source
may be
removed from the power source holder for repair and/or replacement and/or
recharging.
Ideally the power source holder comprises a first holder part movably coupled
to a
second holder part. The first holder part may be movable relative to the
second holder
part between a holding configuration and a replacing configuration. Most
preferably the
first holder part is hingeable relative to the second holder part between the
holding
configuration and the replacing configuration. In the holding configuration
the power
source holder preferably defines a reception space between the first holder
part and the
second holder part for removably receiving a power source. The rear support
frame part
may comprise the power source holder.
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In another preferred embodiment the apparatus comprises a support element
protruding
from the support frame inwardly towards a person wearing the support frame to
engage
against the person. The support element assists in distributing the weight of
the wearable
computer for greater comfort of the wearer. Ideally the support element is
supported by
the rear support frame part. The support element may be configured to engage
support
against the lower spine of a person wearing the support frame. Most preferably
the
support element comprises a lumbar support element. Ideally the support
element is
substantially "D"-shaped in cross-section.
In one case the apparatus comprises at least one urging member to urge the
support
element into engagement against a person wearing the support frame. By urging
the
support element towards engagement against the wearer, the wearer can adjust
the
support element to maximise comfort. The urging member may comprise a
tensionable
member for pulling the support element into engagement against a person
wearing the
support frame. Preferably the tensionable member extends between the front
support
frame part and the rear support frame part. Ideally the tensionable member is
configured
to extend along a side of a person wearing the support frame. Most preferably
the
apparatus comprises a first tensionable member configured to extend along a
first side
and a second tensionable member configured to extend along a second side of a
person
wearing the support frame. The tensionable member may comprise a release
element to
facilitate release of tension in the tensionable member. The release element
preferably
comprises a clip.
In a further embodiment the apparatus comprises a cushion member extending
over at
least part of a surface of the support frame. The cushion member provides a
further
means of enhancing the comfort of the wearer. The support frame may comprise
an inner
surface configured to face substantially towards a person wearing the support
frame, and
the cushion member may extend over the inner surface. The support frame may
comprise
an outer surface configured to face substantially away from a person wearing
the support
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frame, and the cushion member may extend over at least part of the outer
surface.
Preferably the cushion member at least partially encloses the support frame.
Ideally the
cushion member comprises a foam. The cushion member may comprise the support
element.
In another case the apparatus comprises a cover for the support frame. The
cover may
enclose the support frame. Preferably the cover comprises one or more openings
to
facilitate access to one or more components of a mobile electronic display
system
beneath the cover. Ideally the opening is selectively closable. The cover may
comprise a
flap for extending over the opening to selectively close the opening. Most
preferably the
cover comprises one or more windows for displaying one or more components of a
mobile electronic display system beneath the cover. The windows in the cover
enable an
advertising display element beneath the cover to be viewed. The windows also
enable
the functioning of components beneath the cover to be monitored, such as a
power
indicator LED on a battery.
The cover may comprise a breathable material. The cover may comprise a water-
resistant material.
The invention also provides in another aspect a mobile display comprising an
apparatus
of the invention and an electronic display system.
In one embodiment the electronic display system comprises a display element.
The
display element may comprise a computer controlled display element. Ideally
the
apparatus comprises a wearable computer controlled display element. In one
case the
display element comprises a screen for displaying a visual image. The screen
is
preferably daylight-viewable. The daylight-viewable screen enables the display
element
to be used day and night. Ideally the screen brightness output is at least
1000 nits, and
most preferably approximately 1500nits.
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The width of the display element is preferably at least 20 cm, ideally at
least 25 cm, and
most preferably approximately 30 cm.
The height of the display element is preferably at least 15 cm, and ideally
approximately
20 cm.
The display element may comprise a tablet personal computer.
In one case the electronic display system comprises a power source. The power
source
may comprise a battery.
The display may comprise a source of visual images, such as a DVD player.
The display may comprise a wearable computer for controlling the electronic
display
system. In one embodiment the wearable computer is configured to facilitate
wireless
communication between the wearable computer and a communications device remote
from the wearable computer. The wireless communication between the wearable
computer and the remote device enables the advertising campaign being
conducted by the
wearable computer to be rapidly updated, for example in response to feedback
received.
The display may comprise a belt for supporting the wearable computer, the belt
being
suitable to be worn by a person wearing the support frame.
In another case the display comprises a user interface for information
input/output
between a user and a wearable computer.
The user interface may comprise a printing device. The user interface may
comprise a
scanning device. The user interface may comprise an audio recording device.
The user
interface may comprise an audio transmitting device. The user interface may
comprise a
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touch screen interface. Preferably the display comprises a belt for supporting
the user
interface, the belt being suitable to be worn by a person wearing the support
frame.
In a further aspect, the invention provides a garment suitable for being worn
by a person
supporting a wearable computer, the. garment comprising an accommodating part
for
accommodating at least one component part of the wearable computer.
The accommodating part may comprise an opening through the garment. Preferably
the
opening is provided adjacent an end of the garment. Ideally the opening is
provided in
the form of a cut-away section of the garment.
The accommodating part may be provided at a side of the garment. In one case
the
garment comprises a first accommodating part at a first side of the garment
and a second
accommodating part at a second side of the garment. Most preferably the
accommodating part is configured to be located substantially at a hip of a
person wearing
the garment.
The garment may comprise at least one holder. Preferably the holder comprises
a pocket.
In a further aspect, the invention provides a mobile display comprising:-
an electronic display element;
an apparatus suitable for being worn by a person to support the display
element;
the display element being moveable relative to the apparatus between a display
configuration and an interface configuration.
In one embodiment the display element is hingeable between the display
configuration
and the interface configuration.
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In a preferred case the system comprises a user interface for information
inputloutput
between a user and the display element. Ideally the user interface is
accessible in the
interface configuration. Most preferably the user interface is inaccessible in
the display
configuration. The support element may have a front side for displaying and a
rear side,
and the user interface may be provided at the rear side of the display
element.
In another case in the display configuration, the display element is
substantially parallel
to a wearer. Preferably in the display configuration, the front side of the
display element
faces substantially away from a wearer. In another case in the interface
configuration, the
display element is substantially perpendicular to a wearer. Preferably in the
interface
configuration, the rear side of the display element faces substantially
towards the head of
a wearer.
In another aspect, the invention provides a wearable member for supporting a
display
element; the wearable member being suitable to be worn by a person to support
a display
element facing substantially away from the person wearing the wearable member.
In one embodiment the wearable member is configured to support a computer
controlled
display element. Ideally the wearable member is configured to support a
wearable
computer controlled display element.
Brief Description of the Drawing
The invention will be more clearly understood from the following description
of some
embodiments thereof, given by way of example only, with reference to the
accompanying
drawings, in which: -
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Fig_ 1 is a perspective view from the front of an apparatus for supporting a
mobile
electronic display system according to the invention;
Fig_ 2 is a perspective view from the front of the apparatus of Fig. 1;
Fig. 3 is a perspective view from the rear of the apparatus of Fig. 1;
Fig. 4. is a perspective view from the rear of a support frame of the
apparatus of
Fig. 1;
Fig. 5 is a perspective view from the front of the support frame of Fig. 4;
Fig. 6 is an exploded, perspective view from the rear of the support frame of
Fig.
4;
Fig. 7 is an exploded, perspective view from the front of the support frame of
Fig.
5;
Fig. 8 is an exploded, perspective view from the rear of the support frame of
Fig.
4, in use;
Fig. 8(a) is a perspective view from the front of a person wearing the
apparatus of
Fig. 1;
Fig. 8(b) is a perspective view from the rear of a person wearing the
apparatus of
Fig. 1;
Fig. 8 (c) is a front view of a garment according to the invention;
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Fig. 8(d) is a perspective view from the front of a person wearing the garment
of
Fig. 8 (c);
Fig. 8 (e) is a perspective view from the front of a person wearing the
garment of
Fig. 8(c) and the apparatus of Fig. l;
Fig. 8 (f) is a perspective view from the rear of a person wearing the garment
of
Fig. 8(c) and the apparatus of Fig. 1;
Fig. 9 is a block diagram illustrating the architecture of the technology
core, the
connectivity points, the network protocols and the peripheral connectivity;
Figs. 10 and 11 are views similar to Figs. 2 and 3 of another apparatus for
supporting a mobile electronic display system according to the invention;
Fig. 12 is a view similar to Fig. 8(f) of another apparatus for supporting a
mobile
electronic display system according to the invention;
Fig. 13 is a view similar to Fig. 8(e) of the apparatus of Fig. 1 supporting a
tablet
personal computer;
Fig. 14 is a view similar to Fig. 8(e) of another apparatus for supporting a
mobile
electronic display system according to the invention;
Figs. 15 to 17 are further views similar to Fig. 8(e) of the apparatus of Fig.
1;
Fig. 18 is a view similar to Fig. 8(f) of another apparatus for supporting a
mobile
electronic display system according to the invention;
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Fig. 19 is a view similar to Fig. 8(a) of a further apparatus for supporting a
mobile
electronic display system according to the invention;
Fig. 20 is a perspective view of another apparatus for supporting a mobile
electronic display system according to the invention; and
Fig. 21 is another perspective view of the apparatus of Fig. 20.
Detailed Description
Referring to the drawings, and initially to Fig. 1 thereof, there is
illustrated an apparatus 1
according to the invention for supporting a mobile electronic display system.
In this case
the mobile electronic display system includes a display element 11 and a power
source
12. In use a wearable computer 4 controls operation of the display element 11.
The apparatus 1 comprises a relatively rigid support frame 8, a relatively
soft cushion
member 9, and a cover 10 for the support frame 8.
The support frame 8 is suitable for being worn by a person to support the
mobile
electronic display system. As illustrated in Figs. 4 to 8, the support frame 8
comprises a
front support frame part 13 configured to be located at the front of the
wearer, a rear
support frame part 14 configured to be located at the rear of the wearer, a
first bearing
member 15 configured to extend over a first shoulder of the wearer, and a
second bearing
member 1~ configured to extend over a second shoulder of the wearer. The front
support
frame part 13 extends substantially across the chest of the wearer, and the
rear support
frame part 14 extends substantially across the back of the wearer. Each
bearing member
15, 16 extends from the front part 13 to the rear part 14 in a semi-circular
shape. Both
the front support frame part 13 and the rear support frame part 14 are located
beneath the
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wearer's head. Overall, the apparatus 1 has the configuration of a sleeveless
vest, and the
support frame 8 is substantially "U"-shaped in side-view, as illustrated in
Figs. 4 and 5.
One end of each bearing member 15, 16 is fixedly attached to the front part 13
and the
other end of each bearing member 15, 16 is fixedly attached to the rear part
14. In this
manner, the front part 13 and the rear part 14 are supported by the bearing
members 15,
16. In particular the front and rear support frame parts 13, 14 hang from the
two bearing
members 15, 16.
The rigid support frame 8 maintains the position of the front support frame
part 13 fixed
relative to the position of the rear support frame part 14. This results in a
more stable and
comfortable to wear arrangement. The support frame 8 thus assists in better
weight
distribution and a more ergonomically suited arrangement. The support frame 8
was
especially designed to achieve this technical effect following extensive
anthropometric
assessment.
The front part 13 provides a display holder for holding the display element
11. In
particular the front part 13 comprises a first holder part 17 and a second
holder part 18,
which are detachably coupled together. When the holder parts 17, 18 are
coupled
together, the front part 13 defines a reception space 19 between the holder
parts 17, 18 for
securely holding the display element 11. When the holder parts 17, 18 are
detached from
one another, the display element 11 may be removed, as illustrated in Fig. 8.
The front part 13 comprises a window 20 for displaying the display element 11
when the
display element 11 is held in the reception space 19. The window 20 faces away
from the
wearer when the support frame 8 is being worn. In this manner the support
frame 8
supports the display element 11 facing substantially away from the wearer and
so
maximises the visibility of the display element 11 to people that the wearer
passes by, or
that pass the wearer by.
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The rear part 14 provides a power source holder for holding the power source
12. In
particular the rear part 14 comprises a first holder part 21 and a second
holder part 22,
which are coupled together and are hingeably movable relative to one another
between a
holding configuration (Fig. 4) and a replacing configuration (Fig. 8). In the
holding
configuration, the rear part 14 defines a reception space 23 between the
holder parts 21,
22 for securely holding the power source 12. In the replacing configuration,
the power
source 12 may be removed from the rear part 14, as illustrated in Fig. 8.
In this case the front part 13, the rear part 14 and the two bearing members
15, 16 are
provided in the form of aluminium sheet metal.
The cushion member 9 encloses the support frame 8. In particular the cushion
member 9
extends over the full inner surface of the support frame 8 which faces towards
the wearer,
and over the full outer surface of the support frame 8 which faces away from
the wearer.
The cushion member 9 comprises a foam, in this polyurethane, and has a
thickness of
25mrn around most of the support frame 8.
Towards the base of the rear part 14, the cushion member 9 comprises a lumbar
support
element 25 which protrudes from the support frame 8 inwardly towards the
wearer. The
lumbar support element 25 is substantially "D"-shaped in cross-section. In
use, the
lumbar support element 25 engages against the lower spine of the wearer.
The cover 10 encloses both the cushion member 9 and the support frame 8. The
cover 10
is provided in the form of a breathable and water-resistant fabric. In this
case the cover
10 comprises the material Cordura.
The cover 10 comprises two straps 28, 29 extending between a front part 30 of
the cover
10 and a rear part 31 of the cover 10. Each strap 28, 29 is configured to
extend along a
side of the wearer inside of an arm of the wearer.
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The straps 28, 29 may be used as tensioning means to urge the lumbar support
element 25
into engagement with the wearer's lower spine by effectively pulling the front
part 30 and
the rear part 31 closer together.
A clip 32 is provided along each strap 28, 29 to facilitate release of tension
in the strap
28, 29.
An opening is provided through the cover 10 in the rear part 31 of the cover
10 to
facilitate access to the power source 12 in the rear part 14 of the support
frame 8 beneath
the cover 10. A flap 26 is provided for extending over the opening to
selectively close
the opening (Fig. 3).
The cover 10 also comprises a front window 27 to enable the display element 11
beneath
the cover 10 to be displayed through the cover 10, and a rear window to enable
a power
indicator LED on the power source 12 beneath the cover 10 to be displayed
through the
cover 10.
In this case, the display element 11 is provided in the form of a daylight-
viewable,
electronic flat-panel screen for displaying a visual image. The screen 11 is
controlled by
the wearable computer 4. The screen preferably has a brightness output of at
least 1000
nits, and in this case preferably 1500 nits.
The screen 11 preferably has a width of at least 20 cm, most preferably at
least 25 cm,
and ideally 30 cm. The screen 11 preferably has a height of 15 cm, and ideally
20 cm. In
this manner the screen 11 is more easily visible to people that the wearer of
the apparatus
1 passes by, to maximise communication between the screen 11 and the people
passed by
the wearer.
The screen 11 is supported in the front part 13 of the support frame 8 in a
manner that
allows assisted air flow behind it for cooling via vent holes.
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The power source 12 is provided, in this case, in the form of a high-output
battery.
The apparatus 1 is suitable for use with a variety of wearable computers. In
the case of
the wearable computer 4, wireless communication is possible between the
wearable
computer 4 and a communications device remote from the wearable computer 4.
The
support frame 8 may support an antenna for wireless communication at the rear.
Information input/output between a user and the wearable computer 4 may be
achieved
using a variety of user interface means. For example a printing device 5 may
be
employed to print tickets or coupons (Fig. 1), a scanning device 5 may be
employed to
scan a credit card to effect payment for a service being advertised by the
wearable
computer 4 (Fig. 1), a touch screen interface 6 may be employed (Fig. 1), an
audio
recording/transmitting device 35 may be employed (Fig. 2).
Together the apparatus 1, the display element 11, the power source 12, the
wearable
computer 4 and the user interface means 5, 6, 35 provide a mobile display
suitable for
being worn by a person. The wearable computer 4 and the interface means 5, 6,
35 may
be supported on a belt 40 worn by the person wearing the apparatus 1, as
illustrated in
Figs. g (a) and 8 (b) .
The wearable computer 4 allows information input in various modes, including
touch-
screen technology on the screen 11, and handwriting recognition on the pad 6.
Speakers
35 can be incorporated in the chassis and used to output music or any desired
sound.
Also the apparatus can record video footage. Any data captured can be stored
locally,
and it can be communicated via wireless networks with other fixed or wireless
computing
devices. This allows it, for example, to convey information about its
surroundings. The
visual and/or sound content can be from DVD or video, or software for location-
specific
demonstrations. For example a location-specific download may relate to a
retail premises
where the apparatus 1 is located.
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The user interface means may be connected to the wearable computer 4 using any
suitable connecting means, such as USB cables.
The person wearing the apparatus 1 and the belt 40 may be dressed in any
suitable
clothing. However one particularly suitable garment 50 according to the
invention is
illustrated in Figs. 8(c) to 8(f).
The garment 50 comprises cut-away, open sections 52 at each side of the
garment 50 at
the lower end of the garment 50. In use the cut-away sections 52 are located
substantially
at a hip of the wearer (Fig. 8(d)). In this manner each cut-away section 52
provides an
accommodating part to accommodate the wearable computer 4 and the various user
interface means 5, 6, 35 supported on the belt 40 in a comfortable and
ergonomic
arrangement, as illustrated in Figs. 8 (d) to 8 (f).
The garment 50 also includes a number of pockets 51 for holding other
component parts
of the wearable computer 4 or the user interface means 5, 6, 55.
For both information and security, the apparatus 1 may be tracked, and it may
be
remotely updated with content or software. Information can be captured locally
for
polling/surveys, and it can transmit results dynamically.
The various functions of the wearable computer 4 are shown in more detail in
Fig. 9.
This architecture allows excellent versatility for both local and remote
communication
and for configuration of peripherals. As is clear from this block diagram, the
wearable
computer 4 includes a controller, a security layer, an application layer, the
screen 11, and
the high-output battery 12. Various "plug-and-play" connection points allow a
variety of
devices to be connected for input or output or data or contact in a very
versatile manner.
A range of network protocols also allow excellent versatility for
communication, both
locally (for example, Bluetooth) and remotely (for example, GPRS). The
peripheral
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connectivity items allow configuration of the wearable computer 4 in a highly
versatile
manner, as shown in Fig. 9.
In more detail, the apparatus 1 may have an integrated IP camera built into
the front
(above the screen 11). This allows remote monitoring and interactive two-way
video
messaging through a wireless network. The camera may be connected through an
Ethernet connection integrated into the pack 1. The camera may have a built-in
web
server and static IP address. Remote panltilt operations with web-based
viewing are also
available. The camera may be outdoor ready and splash resistant for wet
weather
operation. Images can be transmitted to virtually any Internet Device,
including a
handheld PC or even on the LCD of ari Internet-ready cell phone. The wearable
computer
4 may also send these images anywhere in the world when the camera is
triggered by a
set timer. Clients can view real-time iterations of their campaigns regardless
of their
location.
The apparatus 1 also enables remote monitoring. The client has the ability to
place a
secure web address into a web browser and view in real time each individual
apparatus 1
in operation regardless of their location. This enables the client to verify
the apparatus 1
is operating in the required location, monitor the campaigns as they happen
(real-time),
make decisions regards copy iterations, e.g. if an offer displayed on the
screens 11 is not
having the desired result they can order an update broadcast changing the
price or text.
Another feature is the ability to integrate call centres into a deployment.
The wearable
computer 4 uses two-way messaging to further enhance interaction. The user
sees the
client service representative in the call centre on the apparatus screen and
the client
service representative sees the user on the street. Using an external
microphone the user
can talk in real time to the representative and request more information on
specific offers.
The apparatus 1 may be operated in a wide range of uses, such as the
following:
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Brand/ Product Advertising
The apparatus 1 can distribute broadcast quality messaging. Advertisers can
deliver
messaging applicable to new product launches, established brands/products,
compliment
existing 'traditional' media activity and deliver a purchase 'call to action'
in the most
relevant locations with precise timing. Bespoke advertising and marketing
messages may
be relayed to the target consumer depending on location, varying target
audience, time of
the day and seasonality.
Ticketing & On-demand customised printing
The apparatus 1 can provide secure mobile/ remote ticketing at street level. A
direct
thermal printer 5 has rubberised over- moulding to maintain both rugged
construction and
minimal weight. It supports fonts from 12 to 48 pt and can include optional
character
sets. Secure bar-code symbologies include Code 39, Code 128, Interleaved 2 of
5,
Postnet, UPC- A and UCC/ EAN 128. It can create customised customer loyalty
cards
and secure gift cards on demand or serve customers faster with mobile
transaction
systems for point- of- sale and returns processing.
Gaming and Competitions
Interactive customised games and competitions may be played, such as
"giveaways" and
opt-in marketing based competitions. The apparatus 1 has the ability to
interact with
consumers on multiple levels and provides enhanced entertainment.
Data Capture
Data can be captured and downloaded to a client database. Consumer data can be
entered
directly by the wearer or by the consumer, and distributed in real- time to
clients.
Research
Research can be conducted 'in the field' and monitored in real time through
wireless
broadcast facilities.
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Promotions
A range of promotions can be activated using the apparatus 1. Promotions can
be
enhanced in conjunction with a traditional media brand campaign or in
isolation. The
platform can lead to promotional copy being iterated in real time depending on
consumer
response.
Information Services
Real time information and location specific services (GPS), such as sport and
business
updates and localised dynamic tourist information can be delivered via a
dedicated digital
network.
Monitoring/ Evaluation
Through the apparatus dedicated digital network, advertisers and marketers can
monitor
the performance of their campaigns.
Smart Cards/Credit cards
Smart Card and Credit Card capabilities can be integrated into the apparatus
platform in
order to facilitate secure financial transactions.
There may also be a screen provided at the back of the support frame 8, thus
doubling the
area of visual output.
It will be appreciated that the wearable computer 4 may be employed in a
variety of
possible applications, for example:
~ Brand and product advertising
~ Promotions
~ Interactive messaging (SMS, MMS, Bluetooth)
~ Research and data mining
~ Interactive games and competitions
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~ Ticketing
~ Digital coupons
~ Financial transactions
~ Reservations
~ Interactive demonstrations
~ Location specific information services
~ Commercial messaging and advertising
~ Sales promotion
~ Public relations
~ Direct marketing
~ Direct sales
Referring to Figs. 10 and 11, there is illustrated another apparatus 100 for
supporting a
mobile electronic display system according to the invention, which is similar
to the
apparatus 1 of Figs. 1 to 9, and similar elements in Figs. 10 and 11 are
assigned the same
reference numerals.
In this case the lumbar support element 101 is substantially trapezoidal-
shaped in cross-
section.
It will be appreciated that a variety of possible shapes and/or configurations
may be
employed for the lumbar support element. For example, the lumbar support
element may
be square or rectangular shaped in cross-section.
In Fig. 12 there is illustrated another apparatus for supporting a mobile
electronic display
system according to the invention, which is similar to the apparatus 1 of
Figs. 1 to 9, and
similar elements in Fig. 12 are assigned the same reference numerals.
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In this case the rear support frame part 14 provides a display holder for
holding the
display element 11 at the rear of the wearer. The front support frame part 13
provides the
power source holder for holding the power source 12 at the front of the
wearer.
It will be appreciated that the apparatus of the invention may be employed to
support a
variety of possible display elements. For example, as illustrated in Fig. 13,
the apparatus
1, as described previously With reference to Figs. 1 to 9, may be used to
support a tablet
personal computer 115 in place of the daylight-viewable electronic screen 11.
Fig. 14 illustrates another apparatus 121 for supporting a mobile electronic
display
system according to the invention, which is similar to the apparatus 1 of
Figs. 1 to 9, and
similar elements in Fig. 14 are assigned the same reference numerals.
In this case the audio recording/transmitting device 120 is not provided as
part of the
apparatus 121. Instead the audio recording/transmitting device 120 is
supported on the
belt 40 worn by the person wearing the support frame 8.
It will be appreciated that a variety of possible user interface means may be
employed for
information input/output between a user and the wearable computer 4. For
example, two
touch screens 125 may be employed for information input/output between a user
and the
wearable computer 4 (Fig. 15). The touch screens 125 may conveniently be
supported on
the belt 40 leaving the hands of the person wearing the apparatus 1 free.
Furthermore it will be appreciated that the display element 11 is suitable for
displaying
visual images from a source other than the wearable computer 4. For example,
the
display element 11 may display visual images under the direct control of an
external
DVD player 126 connected to the display element 11, without a wearable
computer being
required (Fig. 16). This may result in a lighter and more compact kit for the
person to
wear. The DVD player 126 may be supported on the belt 40.
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The source of the visual images may be housed within the support frame 8
beneath the
cover 10, and connected directly to the display element 11. In such a case, no
wearable
computer may be required, and no user interface means may be required, as
illustrated in
Fig. 17. This arrangement further reduces the overall weight and bulk which
the person
wearing the apparatus 1 is required to wear.
Referring to Fig. 18 there is illustrated another apparatus 130 for supporting
a mobile
electronic display system according to the invention, which is similar to the
apparatus 1
of Figs. 1 to 9, and similar elements in Fig. 18 are assigned the same
reference numerals.
In this case, the rear support frame part 14 does not hold the power source.
Instead the
power source is provided by a series of batteries 132 supported on the belt
40.
In Fig. 19 there is illustrated a further apparatus 140 for supporting a
mobile electronic
display system according to the invention, which is similar to the apparatus 1
of Figs. 1 to
9, and similar elements in Fig. 19 are assigned the same reference numerals.
In this case the apparatus 140 has the configuration of a T-shirt. In
particular the cover
10 has side pieces 141, and T-shirt sleeve pieces 142 extend from the
shoulders. Straps
are provided between the front part 30 and the rear part 31 beneath the side
pieces 141.
This arrangement may result in a more comfortable to wear, and aesthetically
pleasing
apparatus 140.
In Figs. 20 and 21 there is illustrated another apparatus 150 for supporting a
mobile
electronic display system according to the invention.
In this case the apparatus 150 comprises a support frame chassis 152 for
allowing the
apparatus 150 to be "worn" by a user.
The mobile electronic display system comprises a flat-panel display screen
151;
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a battery 153 at the rear of the support frame 152;
a power lead 154, and a VGA lead 155;
a high power connector 156 and a low power connector 157;
a controller 158, in this case a WindowsTM based P.C.;
a touch screen 159; and
an IP camera 160.
The chassis 152 is shown in more detail in Fig. 21. The arrangement of cross
bars allows
versatility in location of parts of the apparatus 150, such as peripherals.
The screen 151
is supported in a manner that allows assisted air flow behind it for cooling
via vent holes.
The controller 158 may be supported at the back or at the front of the support
frame
chassis 152. In one embodiment the screen 151 doubles as a keyboard when it
tilts down
to a horizontal position. The chassis 152 may support an antenna for wireless
communication at the back.
Suitable dimensions in inches for the support frame chassis 152 are indicated
in Fig. 2.
The invention provides a body worn advertising device for delivering high
resolution
content via a screen, especially relating to media campaigns. The device may
comprise
an aluminium chassis having a fabric outer garment housing a wearable PC, high
output
batteries, a touch screen for copy transference and user input, a direct
thermal printer for
customised on-demand couponing, internal speakers for audio playback and
vouchers and
wireless connectivity for point-of-sale.
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This invention relates to the delivery of media and advertising campaigns
using a body
worn device which may consist of a wearable PC, a daylight viewable screen,
wireless
connectivity, a printer, sound playback and a touch screen input device for
consumer
interaction and point-of-sale. The device is an ergonomically designed
aluminium chassis
housing a screen in the front, batteries for operation in a sub chassis and
lumbar support
on the inside rear. The outer cover of the device is constructed of a water
resistant,
breathable material with pockets on the front inside for storage, a pocket on
the rear for
battery access and straps on the sides to enhance lateral lumbar support for
the operator.
The touch screen is tethered to the wearable PC by a communications cable and
is housed
in an outer cover constructed of the same material used in the outer garment.
The thermal
printer is also housed in this outer cover, and tethered to the wearable PC
communications port via a mini USB cable. This thermal printer has an inbuilt
credit card
scanner and transmits swipeable details from a three-track scanner back to the
wearable
PC for processing via the mini USB cable also.
Advantages of the device of the invention include the interactivity of the
system, the
daylight and lowlight visibility of the screen, the ergonomic and lumbar
support of the
frame, the customised printing capabilities, the user input mechanisms, the
instant copy
transference, the point-of-sale capabilities, the wireless connectivity, the
third party
integration through industry standard web based protocols, the possibility of
data
encryption, seamless content delivery over a wireless network, remote content
updates,
the possibility of unique digital copy changes by the operator based on
location, time or
surrounding events, broadcast quality audio and visual delivery.
The invention provides a body worn device which may comprise media related
content
delivery through a daylight viewable screen held in a rigid chassis, with in-
built audio on-
board, pre-assembled and covered in a waterproof and breathable material
cover,
incorporating a wearable PC, a touchscreen for user input and copy
transference, a direct
thermal printer and credit card scanning device and internal batteries for
standalone
operation.
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The wearable device elements may be a combination of soft elements and rigid
elements.
The elements may be selectively removable.
The screen, battery and cable runs and lumbar elements may be fixed to the
internal
chassis. Ideally the chassis is ergonomically designed for the largest
percentile of
operators.
The outer cover may be waterproof, breathable and easily removed from the
chassis for
cleaning and maintenance.
The daylight viewable screen may be an LCD and have a minimum output of 1000
nits of
brightness.
The PC may be a mobile wearable device capable of storing digital content and
transacting processing requests from the touch screen, the thermal printer and
the credit
card swipe.
The device may be able to play audio through an internal speaker housed inside
the
chassis.
The device may be powered by internal batteries.
The device may be able to deliver point-of-sale applications.
The operator may be able to change copy locally.
The garment cover may be machine washable up to 40 degrees.
The outer cover may be treated with a water proofing coating.
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The device may be constructed of light weight aluminium including synthetic
fibres
selected from foam, nylon and combinations thereof.
The external lumbar support may comprise a 'D' shaped high density foam
profile
located on the rear bottom inside of the chassis. Adjustable straps are
incorporated into
the side of the outer cover, which when clipped together, force the foam
profile to sit into
the curvature of the base of an operator's spine. In this way the lumbar
supports the
carrying device.
The subchassis incorporates a hinge mechanism, which may be accessed from the
rear
through a pocket formed in the outer cover, and can be opened while the pack
is being
worn. This allows for a quick and easy change over of the battery without
device removal
being required.
A small opening may be incorporated into the outer cover to allow for access
to the
battery LED power indicator. Again, this can be accessed while the pack is
being worn
by an operator.
The subchassis has room to hold two batteries at the one time, both of which
can be
changed when the pack is being worn by an operator.
A pre-amp and mono speaker are provided with the internal chassis that
contains the
LCD screen. This allows for audio playback on media campaigns.
The outer cover material has been selected to conform to a number of criteria:
to be
'breathable' to allow for adequate ventilation to components, to be non-
specialist
washable to allow for easy maintenance, to be water resistant to provide
adequate
protection for components, to be scratch and scuff resistant.
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Pockets axe incorporated on the front inside of the outer garment to allow the
operators to
place their hands inside.
The apparatus 1 enables the display of advertising content on the screen 11 in
a manner
controlled by the wearable computer 4. This content may be selected by the
wearer to be
the most appropriate for the particular location. Thus the apparatus achieves
the visual
impact of television and electronic display signs, the precision of direct
marketing, the
accessibility of press and radio, and interactivity.
The invention is not limited to the embodiments hereinbefore described, with
reference to
the accompanying drawings, which may be varied in construction and detail.
