Patent Grant
10128890
Mobile communication and computing devices such as cellular phones, smart phones, computer laptops and tablets etc., are becoming essential personal accessories, oftentimes rarely out of sight of the user. Desktop computers, gaming consoles, wearable devices such as “Smart” watches and Google Glass® already have or eventually will have audio and video recording capabilities, as well as a wide variety of RF transmit/receive capabilities for communication. The advent of the “Internet of Things” (or the “Internet of Everything”), in which most every day devices, from thermostats and appliances to food packages, clothing, medical devices and automobiles (to name a few) have or will have audio, video and RF capabilities is also upon us. Moreover, all of the previously mentioned devices have or someday will potentially include other sensors such as gyroscopes, accelerometers, and proximity, temperature, light, pressure, and other sensors. Ongoing improvements in RF transceiver technology and advancements in the miniaturization of audio-visual capabilities and other devices such as microphones, video cameras and displays provide the user with unparalleled ability to receive, process, and transmit large volumes of data. Devices can record audio and visual information from their environment, process the data either locally or remotely (e.g., “cloud” storage and/or processing) for audio and video transfer directly to a user, or to virtually anywhere in the world capable of receiving a wireless and/or internet service.
Increasing publicity regarding surveillance and the steady rise in the capability of mobile communication and other devices has precipitated an increased awareness of privacy/security concerns associated with such device use. Currently, mobile communication and computing devices do not incorporate so-called “intelligent awareness” to automatically alter their audio-video and transceiver behavior based on a user's environment or requirements, let alone alter behavior to their wishes (such as a user's desire to turn off any of their device's specific capabilities). For example, cellular phones do not know when a user is in a movie theater to automatically turn-off or convert to a quiet-alert mode, and are not easily switched to a secure mode to prevent unwanted reception of RF signals or acquisition of audio visual information from their immediate environment. Furthermore, improvements in wireless network infrastructure enabling location through triangulation, proximity, and ubiquitous use of GPS technology within mobile devices have allowed accurate device location detection, potentially allowing the dissemination of confidential user information.
In general, device manufacturers and network providers (cellular, internet, private or public networks WiFi and other such networks) rarely, if ever, allow users to totally control reception and transmission of RF or a device's audio-video capabilities. Even with the control that is possible, hackers, malware and other malicious people or code can hijack these functions. Conventional cases or peripheral devices which add features or capabilities or provide protection, aesthetic or other value or do not provide users with full control of their devices' capabilities
Some embodiments include a privacy/security apparatus for a portable communication device comprising a housing assembly configured to at least partially attenuate at least one of sound energy, acoustic energy, and electromagnetic energy including light, optical, and IR energy and RF radiation from passing through the housing assembly. The housing assembly comprises a Faraday cage comprising two or more portions, and at least one protective shell coupled to or forming at least one aperture. The at least one aperture is configured and arranged to at least partially enclose the portable communication device so that at least a portion of the portable communication device is positioned within at least one portion of the Faraday cage, and the at least one seal coupled or integrated with the protective shell.
Some embodiments include a privacy/security apparatus where the housing assembly includes an articulating assembly configured and arranged to articulate a portion of the housing assembly to one or more positions to enable a user to insert or enclose and remove the portable communication device. In some other embodiments, the housing assembly includes a sliding assembly configured and arranged to slide a portion of the housing assembly to one or more positions to enable a user to insert, enclose or remove the portable communication device. In some embodiments, the housing assembly includes at least one active acoustic jamming or passive acoustic attenuation element.
In some embodiments of the invention, housing assembly is configured and arranged to be movable between an open and a closed position to enable a user to insert or enclose and remove the portable communication device. In some embodiments, the housing assembly comprises a sheath. In other embodiments, the housing assembly comprises a hood assembly and a base assembly. Further, the base assembly includes a Faraday base assembly forming at least one of the portions of the Faraday cage.
In some embodiments, the at least one seal comprises an environmental seal. In some further embodiments, the at least one seal comprises an RF seal. In some embodiments, the at least one seal comprises at least one of a magnetic seal, an electromagnetic seal, an acoustic seal, and an optical seal. In some embodiments, the at least one seal comprises a fingerstock element. In some further embodiments, the seal includes at least one elastomeric element positioned adjacent to the fingerstock. In some embodiments of the invention, the at least one elastomeric element is positioned within at least a portion of the fingerstock.
Some embodiments of the invention include a housing assembly that includes at least one port configured to couple with the portable communication device. In some embodiments, the at least one port comprises at least one of a sound transfer port, an RF transfer port, a data transfer port, a power transfer port, and an optical port. In some embodiments, the at least one protective shell includes a decorative layer or region. In some embodiments of the invention, the decorative layer or region comprises at least one of a patterned surface, a window, a display, an emblem, and a logo.
Some embodiments of the invention include a privacy/security apparatus where the housing assembly includes at least one controller configured and arranged to modulate at least one privacy/security setting. In some embodiments, the at least one privacy/security setting includes a setting that alters the magnitude of energy reaching the portable communication device through the housing assembly. In some further embodiments, the energy comprises at least one of sound energy, RF energy, electrical energy, electromagnetic energy, and optical and/or IR energy.
In some embodiments of the invention, the housing assembly includes at least one microphone. In some embodiments, the housing assembly includes at least one speaker or sound generator. In some embodiments, the housing assembly includes at least one compression seal configured and arranged to couple with at least one of a microphone, a speaker, a camera, a display, a sensor, and an RF antenna of the portable communication device.
Some embodiments of the invention include a housing assembly that includes active acoustic protection. In some embodiments, the active acoustic protection comprises a random noise generator generating a signal which is acoustically delivered to at least one microphone of the portable communication device.
In some embodiments, the housing assembly includes at least one DC pass-through configured and arranged to pass direct current through the Faraday cage. In some further embodiments, the housing assembly includes an onboard power supply.
Some embodiments of the invention include a privacy/security apparatus where the movement of the hood assembly results in the covering of all of the portable communications device's microphones and cameras in a closed position, and the uncovering of all of the portable communications device's microphones and cameras in an open position.
Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms “mounted,” “connected,” “supported,” and “coupled” and variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further, “connected” and “coupled” are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms “seal,” “seals,” and “sealed” and variations thereof are used to broadly encompass a range of levels of sealing, from at least some or partial sealing, to substantially complete or full sealing with substantially no leakage through the seal. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the term “phone(s),” “smartphone(s),” “tablet(s),” “computer(s),” and figures depicting such devices are intended to be used generically and interchangeably with each other and for any other such device(s) with one or more microphones and/or camera(s) and/or RF transceiver(s) and/or optical transceivers and/or infrared transceivers and/or wired networking capability and/or other sensor(s). Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms “USB,” and “micro-USB” refer to all standard charging interfaces for consumer electronic devices, including proprietary connectors such as Apple's Lightning™ connector.
The following discussion is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use embodiments of the invention. Various modifications to the illustrated embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles herein can be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from embodiments of the invention. Thus, embodiments of the invention are not intended to be limited to embodiments shown, but are to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. The following detailed description is to be read with reference to the figures, in which like elements in different figures have like reference numerals. The figures, which are not necessarily to scale, depict selected embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of embodiments of the invention. Skilled artisans will recognize the examples provided herein have many useful alternatives and fall within the scope of embodiments of the invention.
Embodiments of the invention described herein include privacy/security devices, privacy/security systems and methods of use of these devices and systems for providing or facilitating a user's privacy/security. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the term “privacy/security enclosure” can be used throughout to describe embodiments of a structure forming at least a partial enclosure, chamber, cover, case, sleeve, channel, conduit, window, and variations thereof to broadly encompass rendering a range of levels of privacy/security to a user, from at least some or partial privacy/security, to substantially complete or complete privacy/security with substantially no private information leakage through the privacy/security enclosure. Further, the term “privacy/security enclosure” can be used throughout to describe embodiments of a system providing privacy/security control to a user.
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a device including a housing assembly that can comprise a rigid or semi-rigid, structurally self-supporting privacy/security enclosure that can be at least partially opened or closed by a user, and/or can include a portion that can be moved, adjusted, opened or closed by a user to adjust a level of privacy/security. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the housing assembly can be moved with respect to another portion of the housing assembly. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include a structure that can least partially envelop at least one user device comprising an RF transceiver and/or an audio device, and/or a video device, and/or an audio/video/RF protection device(s), and/or a near-field communication (hereinafter “NFC”) device, and/or a radio-frequency identification (hereinafter “RFID”) device. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can be used to cradle, and temporarily or permanently store at least one user device such as a smart phone, or other communication device. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include at least one gasket or O-ring (hereinafter referred to as an “RF gasket”) that is capable of at least partially attenuating or blocking at least one transmission or signal comprising radio frequency radiation (hereinafter referred to as “RF”). Further, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can be formed of a material capable of at least partially attenuating RF radiation emitted to or from any RF antennas or transceivers positioned inside the privacy/security enclosure (e.g., such as those forming part of the user's smart phone).
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a protective enclosure (or shield in other embodiments) that can selectively at least partially block one or more monitoring, sensing and/or surveillance capabilities of the various devices. For example, in some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure only covers the audio portion of a desktop computer (or other device with a microphone such as an Xbox Kinect®). In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure does not provide RF protection, but reduces or limits the microphone's ability to capture audio content. In some embodiments, a microphone security portion of the shield can be activated using a button. In some further embodiments, the activation of another button can direct an opaque shield to cover the front of a device's camera (such as a camera on the Xbox Kinect®). In some embodiments, the invention minimizes or prevents scanning, information insertion, manipulation or retrieval, code insertion, manipulation or retrieval or hacking of protected devices via RF technologies.
In some further embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can suppress the ability of various other sensors when enclosed within the privacy/security enclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can substantially block and/or damp the signals reaching other sensors such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers to name a few. In some embodiments, the enclosure can include materials, structures and/or approaches (for example, foams, fabrics, springs, specific shapes and/or materials, suspension and/or isolation systems, vibration dampening techniques etc.), configured to at least partially mask, block, attenuate, distort, confuse and/or otherwise reduce and/or eliminate the ability of any sensor to perform its primary and/or any other function of which it is capable (for example a gyroscope or accelerometer used to record and/or detect/decipher audio communication). In some embodiments, the enclosure can include active/powered components to at least partially mask, block, attenuate, distort, confuse and/or otherwise reduce and/or eliminate the ability of any sensor to perform its primary and/or any other function of which it is capable (for example, a gyroscope or accelerometer could otherwise be used to record and/or detect/decipher audio communication).
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include RF gaskets extending around at least a portion of an interface or housing of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include RF gaskets extending completely around a region of an upper and/or lower portion of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a Faraday cage configured to attenuate, or at least partially block, reception or transmission of RF radiation. In some embodiments, the Faraday cage includes and/or is formed by the one or more RF gaskets. In some embodiments of the invention, when used in combination with one or more RF shield layers (coated, embedded, or attached to any portion of the privacy/security enclosure) the combination of the privacy/security seal formed by the one or more of the aforementioned RF gaskets and one or more RF shield layers can form a Faraday cage. In some embodiments, the Faraday cage can substantially attenuate or at least partially block RF transmission into and/or out of the privacy/security enclosure. As used herein, the term RF shield is intended to mean a barrier that is able to partially or substantially attenuate, at least partially prevent transmission through, or at least partially block transmission of RF. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include at least one RF gasket positioned within, coupled to, or integrated with the base portion and/or the lid portion of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include an RF gasket that can attenuate or at least partially block some or all RF transmission including, but not limited to, zero generation wireless signals, first generation wireless signals, second generation wireless signals, third generation wireless signals, fourth generation wireless signals, fifth generation wireless signals, any global positioning satellite signal (such as “GPS” or “GLONASS”), Bluetooth® wireless signals, RFID electromagnetic radiation, WiFi wireless signals, two-way radio RF signals, UHF or VHF signals (such as a citizen's band radio signal or other radio signal emitted from a ‘walkie-talkie’ type device), high-speed and millimeter wave signals, and/or near-field wireless signals. Bluetooth® is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc.
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can at least partially attenuate or blocking at least one transmission or signal comprising an optical signal, infrared signal, ultraviolet signal, image or video, and/or acoustic signal. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include at least one seal or gasket extending around at least a portion of an interface between the privacy/security enclosure and the user's device that can at least partially block or attenuate an optical signal, image or video, and/or acoustic signal, and/or an RF signal.
In some embodiments of the invention a combination of one or more grooves within a portion of the privacy/security enclosure can be used with one or more o-rings or gaskets to provide various levels of sealing of the privacy/security enclosure. For example, a dual groove structure or a single groove can be implemented with a tongue structure that can be used with or without an o-ring. In some embodiments, any of the o-rings or gaskets can comprise an RF shield (i.e., can function as an RF attenuating gasket) and therefore can enable a ring seal for use in a privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, any o-ring or gasket can comprise a polymer-based matrix material including metal filaments dispersed in a matrix to form a polymer composite material. In some embodiments, the polymer matrix can comprise a homopolymer and/or copolymer, and can comprise an elastomeric polymer such as rubber. In some other embodiments, the o-ring or gasket can comprise a carbon fiber-filled matrix material including metal filaments dispersed in a matrix to form a carbon fiber composite material.
In some embodiments, any o-ring or gasket can be capable of forming a compliant privacy seal between portions of the privacy/security enclosure (e.g., between an upper and a lower portion and/or between two halves of the privacy/security enclosure). Further, in some embodiments, the formed seal can be capable of functioning as an environmental barrier in addition to functioning as an RF shield. For example, in some embodiments, the formed seal can be capable of providing a water and/or moisture barrier in addition to functioning as an RF shield. Further in some embodiments, when used in combination with one or more RF shield layers (coated, embedded, or attached to any portion of the privacy/security enclosure) the combination of the privacy seal and the one or more RF shield layers can form a Faraday cage to substantially attenuate or at least partially block substantially all RF transmission into the privacy/security enclosure and/or substantially attenuate or at least partially block substantially all RF transmission out from the privacy/security enclosure.
In some embodiments, more than one type of o-ring or gasket can be used. In some embodiments, each o-ring or gasket type can be optimized for a specific function (either to at least partially block or attenuate RF, sound, light, moisture, etc.). However, any one o-ring or gasket can function to attenuate or at least partially block a combination of RF, sound, light, etc. For example, in some embodiments, one or more o-rings or gaskets can function to attenuate RF, and one or more o-rings or gaskets can function to attenuate sound, and one or more o-rings or gaskets can function as an environmental barrier. Moreover, in some embodiments, one or more of the o-rings or gaskets can be larger or smaller than one or more other o-rings or gaskets. For example, in some embodiments, one or more of the grooves can be larger or smaller than one or more other groove so as to be capable of cradling a complementarily-sized o-ring.
In some embodiments of the invention, RF protection can be accomplished using a labyrinth and one or more gaskets. In some embodiments, rather than using a double labyrinth, a variety of other options can be deployed to improve manufacturability, space consumption etc., without reducing our performance. Some factors impacting gasket and labyrinth design in some embodiments include the use of gaskets that can be compressed by at least 20% to about 50% of their height in order to provide suitable attenuation.
In some embodiments, depending on the physical architecture of the privacy/security enclosure (e.g., size and/or geometry matched to one or more devices), a double labyrinth around the entire diameter of the privacy/security enclosure may be required. In this instance, some embodiments may require significant force to compress the gaskets. Further, some embodiments may require latches with mechanical advantage that can help the user close the case and hold the lid in position, as well as hinges that can support the force constantly being created by the compressed gaskets. Some further embodiments can deploy architectures that enable the labyrinth and gasket to be shorted. Other embodiments can deploy gaskets that are positioned at the bottom of the labyrinth.
In some embodiments, any of the aforementioned RF gaskets can be configured to form a compliant privacy/security seal between any number of portions of the privacy/security enclosure (e.g., between an upper and a lower portion and/or between two halves of the privacy/security enclosure). Further, in some embodiments, the formed seal can be capable of functioning as an environmental barrier in addition to functioning as an RF shield. For example, in some embodiments of the invention, one or more RF gaskets can provide the secondary benefit of minimizing the transmission of air, water, dust and other such substances from passing into the interior of the privacy/security enclosure when it is closed. In some embodiments, other or additional environmental or sealing gaskets can be included that are more specifically designed for this purpose. Furthermore, the environmental or sealing gaskets can be used with one or more RF gaskets as required. In some embodiments of the invention, a combination of one or more grooves within a portion of the privacy/security enclosure can be used with one or more RF gaskets to provide various levels of coupling, seating, and sealing of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, at least some portion of the upper and/or lower portions of the privacy/security enclosure can comprise at least one form, cavity, or depression (i.e. forming a groove) for coupling to at least one RF gasket.
In some embodiments, at least some portion of the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a metal or metal alloy. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a metal core structure. Some embodiments include a metal or metal alloy that can comprise stainless steel, magnesium, aluminum, titanium, or a titanium-magnesium alloy. In some embodiments, one or more components of the enclosed chamber can comprise a metal or metal alloy that is milled from a solid block. In some further embodiments, one or more components of the enclosed chamber can be stamped from raw sheet stock. For example, in some embodiments, components of the enclosed chamber such as a privacy/security enclosure base and/or a privacy/security enclosure lid can comprise stamped aluminum or magnesium alloy. In some other embodiments, the lid can be formed by other conventional manufacturing processes such as molding (e.g. injection molding or thermoforming), die-cutting, laser cutting, or printed using a three dimensional printer, etc.
In some other embodiments, the lid can be formed by other conventional manufacturing processes such as molding (e.g. injection molding or thermoforming), die-cutting, machining, laser cutting, printed using a three dimensional printer, thixo-forming, impact extruded or deep drawn, etc. In some further embodiments, the Faraday enclosure can be formed from conductive fabric or plastic infused with conductive elements or plastic coated or plated with conductive elements. In some embodiments, the Faraday enclosure and/or any portion of the privacy/security enclosure can be anodized and/or can comprise a polymer.
In some embodiments, at least a portion of any of the components, or sub-assemblies, housings and/or interconnects of the privacy/security enclosures herein can comprise a metal or a metal alloy substrate or coating. In some embodiments, the substrate or coating can comprise a base metal (e.g., such as nickel) with varying thicknesses of plated metals, including, but not limited to gold, palladium nickel, and titanium blend plating options. In some embodiments, the substrate or coating can comprise a metal or metal alloy (e.g., such as beryllium copper) that can electrically couple the cover to the base, and when closing the case. In some further embodiments, at least a portion of the substrate or coating can comprise copper or a copper alloy. In some other embodiments, at least a portion of the substrate or coating can comprise nickel or a nickel alloy (e.g., a nickel-copper alloy), or an alloy of copper and tin. In some embodiments, a nickel layer can be used as a diffusion barrier for a contact outer layer or surface that comprises gold. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the substrate or coating can comprise iron or steel. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the substrate or coating can comprise aluminum, magnesium, or mixtures or alloys thereof. Other useful coatings or layers can include silver, tin, or palladium.
In some embodiments, any of the aforementioned metals or metal alloy can be selected and used to form one or more electrical contacts of the privacy/security enclosure depending on the required function and/or performance. Examples of such contacts can include electrical contacts for RF shielding such as a rim or other electrical contact of the Faraday cage of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, one or more contacts can comprise a gold or gold alloy material. In some further embodiments, the contacts can comprise titanium nitride. In some other embodiments, the contacts can comprise palladium, palladium nickel, or some other pure or blended form of noble metal, which at least partially resists corrosion and oxidation. In some embodiments of the invention, various mated surfaces can use the same or different metals or metal alloy combinations for their contact surfaces, to improve or manage characteristics including, but not limited to, RF shielding performance, durability, longevity, mating sound and/or tactile feel/impression, frictional polymerization, contact resistance, conductivity, appearance, strength, fretting, hardness, and/or cost. For contacts including coatings, or modified surfaces of base metals, formation or deposition can proceed by any conventional technique including plating, cladding, electrolytic deposition, electro-less deposition, or vapor deposition among others.
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a metal core structure. Some embodiments include a metal or metal alloy that comprises stainless steel, magnesium, aluminum, titanium, or a titanium-magnesium alloy, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, one or more components of the chamber can comprise a metal or metal alloy that is milled from a solid block. In some further embodiments, one or more components of the cover can be stamped from raw sheet stock. For example, in some embodiments, portions of the privacy/security enclosure can comprise stamped aluminum or magnesium alloy. In some other embodiments, the cover can be formed by other conventional manufacturing processes such as molding (e.g. injection molding or thermoforming), die-cutting, machining, laser cutting, printed using a three dimensional printer, etc.
In some other embodiments, at least a portion of one or more of the privacy/security enclosures described herein can comprise a material such as a polymer, or polymer composite. For example, in some embodiments, at least a portion of one or more of the privacy/security enclosures described herein can comprise an injection molded, extruded, or thermo-form polymer. In some embodiments, the polymer can comprise polyethylene, polypropylene, or polyethylene-polypropylene copolymers. In some further embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise at least one polymer comprising aramids (aromatic polyamides), poly(m-xylylene adipamide), poly(p-xylylene sebacamide), poly(2,2,2-trimethyl-hexamethylene terephthalamide), poly(piperazine sebacamide), poly(metaphenylene isophthalamide) (Nomex) and poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide), aliphatic and cycloaliphatic polyamides, including the copolyamide of 30% hexamethylene diammonium isophthalate and 70% hexamethylene diammonium adipate, the copolyamide of up to 30% bis-(-amidocyclohexyl) methylene, terephthalic acid and caprolactam, polyhexamethylene adipamide, poly(butyrolactam), poly(9-aminonanoic acid), poly(enantholactam), poly(caprillactam), polycaprolactam, poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide), polyhexamethylene sebacamide, polyaminoundecanamide, polydodecanolacatam, polyhexamethylene isophthalamide, polyhexamethylene terephthal amide, polycaproamide, poly(nonamethylene azelamide), poly(decamethylene azelamide), poly(decamethylenesebacamide), poly [bis-4-aminocyclohexyl)methane1,10-decanedi-carboxamide](Qiana)(trans), and aliphatic, cycloaliphatic and aromatic polyesters including poly(1,4-cyclohexylidene dimethyl eneterephthalate) cis and trans, poly(ethylene-2,6-naphthalate), poly(1,4-cyclohexane dimethylene terephthalate) (trans), poly(decamethylene terephthalate, poly(ethylene terephthalate), poly(ethylene isophthalate), poly(ethylene oxybenzoate), poly(para-hydroxy benzoate), poly(beta,beta dimethylpropiolactone), poly(decamethylene adipate), or poly(ethylene succinate), or mixtures thereof.
In some further embodiments, at least a portion of any of the privacy/security enclosures described herein can comprise at least one polymer formed of extended chain polymers by the reaction of beta-unsaturated monomers of the formula R1R2-C═CH2, where R1 and R2 are either identical or different, and are hydrogen, hydroxyl, halogen, alkylcarbonyl, carboxy, alkoyxycarbonyl, heterocycle or alkyl or aryl, where the alkyl or aryl can be substituted with one or more substituents including alkoxy, cyano, hydroxyl, akyl or aryl, and extended chain polymers including polystyrene, polyethylene, polypropylene, poly(1-octadecene), polyisobutylene, poly(1-pentene), poly(2-methylstyrene), poly(4-methylstyrene), poly(1-hexene), poly(1-pentene), poly(4-methoxystyrene), poly(5-methyl-1-hexene), poly(4-methylpentene), poly(1-butene), poly(3-methyl-1-butene), poly(3-phenyl-1-propene), polyvinyl chloride, polybutylene, polyacrylonitrile, poly(methyl pentene-1), poly(vinyl alcohol), poly(vinyl-acetate), poly(vinyl butyral), poly(vinyl chloride), poly(vinylidene chloride), vinyl chloride-vinyl acetate chloride copolymer, poly(vinylidene fluoride), poly(methyl acrylate, poly(methylmethacrylate), poly(methacrylonitrile), poly(acrylamide), poly(vinyl fluoride), poly(vinyl formal), poly(3-methyl-1-butene), poly(1-pentene), poly(4-methyl-1-butene), poly(1-pentene), poly(4-methyl-1-pentene), poly(1-hexane), poly(5-methyl-1-hexene), poly(1-octadecene), poly(vinylcyclopentane), poly(vinylcyclohexane), poly(a-vinylnaphthalene), poly(vinylmethylether), poly(vinylethylether), poly(vinylpropylether), poly(vinylcarbazole), poly(vinylpyrrolidone), poly(2-chlorostyrene), poly(4-chlorostyrene), poly(vinylformate), poly(vinylbutylether), poly(vinyloctylether), poly(vinylmethylketone), poly(methylisopropenylketone), or poly(4-phenylstyrene), or mixtures thereof.
In some further embodiments of the invention, at least a portion of the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a polymer thermoset material. For example, in some embodiments of the invention, the thermosetting polymer can comprise an epoxide-based technology. In some embodiments, epoxies based on saturated or unsaturated aliphatic, cycloaliphatic, aromatic and heterocyclic epoxides can be used to form at least a portion of the privacy/security enclosure. In some further embodiments, useful epoxides can comprise glycidyl ethers derived from epichlorohydrin adducts and polyols, particularly polyhydric phenols. Another useful epoxide is the dlglycidyl ether of hisphenol A. Additional examples of useful polyepoxides are resorcinol diglycidyl ether, 3,4-epoxy-6-methylcyclohexylmethyl-9,10-epoxystearate, 1,2,-bis(2,3-epoxy-2-methylpropoxy)ethane, diglycidyl ether of 2,2-(p-hydroxyphenyl) propane, butadiene dioxide, dicyclopentadiene dioxide, pentaerythritol tetrakis(3,4-epoxycyclohexanecarboxylate), vinylcyclohexene dioxide, divinylbenzene dioxide, 1,5-pentadiol bis(3,4-epoxycyclohexane carboxylate), ethylene glycol bis(3,4-epoxycyclohexane carboxylate), 2,2-diethyl-1,3-propanediol bis(3,4-epoxycyclohexanecarboxylate), 1,6-hexanediol bis(3,4-epoxycyclohexanecarboxylate),2-butene-1,4-diol-bis(3,4-epoxy-6-methylcyclohexane carboxylate), 1,1,1-trimethylolpropane-tris-(3,4-epoxycyclohexanecarboxylate), 1,2,3-propanetriol tris(3,4-epoxycyclohexanecarboxylate), dipropylene glycol bis(2-ethylexyl-4,5-epoxycyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylate), diethyleneglycol-bis(3,4-epoxy-6-methylcyclohexane carboxylate), triethylene glycol bis(3,4-epoxycyclohexanecarboxylate),3,4-epoxycyclohexyl-methyl-3,4-epoxycyclohexanecarboxylate,3,4-epoxy-1-methylcyclohexylmethyl-3,4-epoxy-1-methylcyclohexane-carboxylate, bis(3,4-epoxycyclohexylmethyl)pimelate, bis(3,4-epoxy-6-methylenecyclohexylmethyl)maleate, bis(3,4-epoxy-6-methylcyclohexylmethyl) succinate, bis(3,4-epoxycyclohexylmethyl)oxalate, bis(3,4-epoxy-6-methylcyclohexylmethyl)sebacate, bis(3,4-epoxy-6-methylcyclohexylmethyl)adipate, bis(3,4-epoxycyclo-hexylmethyl) terephtalate, 2,2′-sulfonyldiethanol bis(3,4-epoxycyclohexanecarboxylate), N,N′-ethylene bis(4,5-epoxycyclohexane-1,2-dicarboximide), di(3,4-epoxycyclohexylmethyl)-1,3-tolylenedicarbamate,-3,4-epoxy-6-methylcyclohexanecarboxaldehydeacetal, 3,9-bis(3,4-epoxycyclohexyl) spirobi-(methadioxane), and the like.
In some other embodiments of the invention, thermosetting resins based on aromatic vinyl esters can be used to form at least a portion of the privacy/security enclosure. These can include a condensation product of epoxide resins and unsaturated acids usually diluted in a compound having double bond unsaturation such as vinyl aromatic monomer (e.g., styrene and vinyl toluene, and diallyl phthalate). Illustrative of useful vinyl esters are diglycidyl adipate, diglycidyl isophthalate, di(2,3-epoxybutyl)adipate, di(2,3-epoxybutyl)oxalate, di(2,3-epoxyhexy 1)succinate, d(3,4-epoxybutyl)maleate, d(2,3-epoxyoctyl)pimelate, di(2,3-epoxybutyl)phthalate, di(2,3-epoxyocty 1)tetrahydrophthalate, di(4, 5-epoxy-dodecyl)maleate, di(2,3-epoxybutyl)terephthalate, di(2,3-epoxypentyl)thiodipropionate, di(5,6-epoxy-tetradecyl) diphenyldicarboxylate, di(3,4-epoxyheptyl)sulphonyldibutyrate, tri(2,3-epoxybutyl) 1,2,4 butanetricarboxylate, di(5, 6-epoxypentadecyl)maleate, di(2,3-epoxybutyl)azelate, di(3,4-epoxybutyl)citrate, di(5,6-epoxyoctyl)cyclohexane-1,3-dicarboxylate, di(4, 5-epoxyoctadecyl)malonate, bisphenol-A-fumaric acid polyester and the like.
In some embodiments, at least a portion of the privacy/security enclosure can include a filler material. For example, some embodiments can include a thermoplastic or thermosetting resin that includes at least some filler material dispersed through at least a portion of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, the filler material can be dispersed substantially homogenously through at least a portion of at least one layer of the privacy/security enclosure. In some other embodiments, the filler material can be substantially unevenly distributed through at least a portion of the privacy/security enclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the filler material can be dispersed substantially unevenly through at least a portion of at least one layer of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, the filler material can be amorphous or crystalline, organic or inorganic material. In some other embodiments, the particle size of the filler material can be between 1-10 microns. In some other embodiments, at least some portion of the filler material can be sub-micron. In some other embodiments, at least a portion of the filler can comprise a nano-sized particle filler material. In some embodiments, the filler can comprise a fibrous material. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the filler can be oriented in a preferred direction.
In some further embodiments of the invention, at least a portion of one or more of the privacy/security enclosures described herein can comprise an animal-based material such as leather or suede, and/or a plant derived material cellulosic material such as wood, cork, and/or a wood-based composite material.
Some embodiments of the invention can include one or multiple rows of fingerstock bonded into a cover assembly or any interface between at least two portions of the privacy/security device. In some embodiments, in some or each row of fingerstocks, a hollow or solid conductive elastomer can be used. In some embodiments of the invention, in some or each row of fingerstocks, conductive elastomer can comprise a generally circular cross-section. In some further embodiments of the invention, in some or each row of fingerstocks, conductive elastomer can comprise a generally oval cross-section. In some other embodiments of the invention, in some or each row of fingerstocks, conductive elastomer can comprise a generally square or rectangular cross-section. In some embodiments, the bearing surface on the base can be nickel-plated for conductivity and surface hardness.
In some embodiments, at least some portion of the structurally self-supporting enclosed chamber can comprise a metal or a metal alloy. Some embodiments include a metal or metal alloy that can comprise stainless steel, magnesium, aluminum, titanium, or a titanium-magnesium alloy. In some embodiments, one or more components of the enclosed chamber can comprise a metal or metal alloy that is milled from a solid block. In some further embodiments, one or more components of the enclosed chamber can be stamped from raw sheet stock. For example, in some embodiments, components of the enclosed chamber such as a privacy/security enclosure base and/or a privacy/security enclosure lid can comprise stamped aluminum or magnesium alloy. In some other embodiments, the lid can be formed by other conventional manufacturing processes such as molding (e.g., injection molding or thermoforming), die-cutting, laser cutting, or printed using a three dimensional printer, etc.
In some embodiments, at least some portion of the privacy/security enclosure including the structurally self-supporting enclosed chamber can comprise a polymer or polymer composite. In some other embodiments, at least some portion of the structurally self-supporting enclosed chamber can comprise a composite. In some further embodiments, at least some portion of the structurally self-supporting enclosed chamber can comprise a polymer or polymer composite that includes a metal (such as a metal flake, metal powder, or a metal alloy coating, or other metal dispersion). Some embodiments include a metal or metal alloy that can comprise stainless steel, aluminum, or magnesium. In some embodiments, numerous other materials can be incorporated into various embodiments of the privacy/security enclosure. For example, some embodiments can use injection molded plastic portions, and a wide variety of other conventional product materials such as wood, composite and/or ceramic. Moreover, in some embodiments, the privacy case can comprise a finished surface such as a polished surface. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a box for corporate boardrooms that would encompass multiple devices (similar to any commercial cigar box). In some embodiments, metallic meshes/fabrics and/or conductive metallic paints and finishes can be applied to one or more portions of the privacy/security enclosure (internally or externally) to create the RF shield and/or Faraday cage.
Some embodiments of the invention include a privacy/security enclosure with an inner shell coupled to an outer shell. In some embodiments, the inner shell and outer shell can comprise the same material (e.g., the inner and outer shells can each comprise a metal, or a polymer or a composite, and so on). In some other embodiments, the inner shell and outer shell can comprise different materials. For example, in some embodiments, components of the enclosed chamber such as a privacy/security enclosure base inner shell and/or a privacy/security enclosure lid inner shell can comprise a stamped metal or metal alloy (e.g., such as an aluminum and/or magnesium alloy), and a privacy/security enclosure base outer shell and/or a privacy/security enclosure lid outer shell can comprise a non-metal material such as an injection molded polymer or polymer composite material. In this instance, the inner and outer shells of the base and lid can be coupled by a variety of conventional coupling methods including but not limited to a snap-fit, a latch, a hinge, or combinations thereof.
In some other embodiments, at least some portion of the structurally self-supporting chamber can comprise a flexible and/or compliant material. In some embodiments, the material can include at least one of a cloth or fabric, a polymer or polymer composite film or sheet, or other flexible material. In this instance, the privacy/security enclosure can be structurally supported by one or more enclosed user devices, such as a mobile or stationary communication device. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a flexible bag that can lay flat or be folded when empty, but can be configured to expand to accommodate at least one RF transceiver such as a mobile or stationary communication device.
Referring now to
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure 100 can include a base portion 120 and a lid portion 115 coupled by at least one pivot. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure 100 can include a base portion 120 and a lid portion 115 coupled by at least one conventional hinge mechanism 107. In some embodiments, the base portion or the lid portion can be shaped to accommodate at least a portion of a hinge mechanism 107. In some embodiments, one or more edges of the base portion 120 can include at least one notch capable of providing clearance for a pivot mechanism. In some embodiments, the base portion 120 or lid portion 115 or both can include a plurality of notches for providing clearance or for attachment of various portions of a pivot mechanism. Further, in some embodiments, the base portion 120 or lid portion 115 or both can include a plurality of apertures for providing attachment of various portions of a pivot mechanism. For example, in some other embodiments, one or more surfaces of the base portion 120 and/or one or more surfaces of the lid portion 115 can include at least one aperture capable of securing one or more components of the privacy/security enclosure 100. In some embodiments, any one of the above-mentioned apertures can include an attachment member (e.g., a screw, rivet or other coupling structure).
Some embodiments include a liner 130 positioned in the base portion 120 and/or the lid portion (not shown). As shown in
In some embodiments, the base portion 120 and lid portion 115 can be coupled and pivoted with respect to each other to enable at least partial access to an inner region 105 of the privacy/security enclosure 100 by opening to an angle of between about 0° to about 90°. Referring to
The privacy/security enclosure 200 comprises a main housing 210 including a base portion 220, and a lid portion 215 coupled by a hinge mechanism 207 shown coupled along a one edge of the base portion 220 and the lid portion 215. The base portion 220 and lid portion 215 can be coupled and pivoted with respect to each other to enable at least partial access to an inner region 205 of the privacy/security enclosure 200 by opening to an angle of between about 90° and about 180°. In some other embodiments, the base portion 220 and lid portion 215 can be pivoted with respect to each other and angled at an angle of greater than about 180° (not shown). For example, in some embodiments, the base portion 220 and lid portion 215 can be pivoted with respect to each other and angled at an angle of about 190°. In some embodiments, this can allow the privacy/security enclosure 200 to lay substantially fully open on a surface (e.g., such as a desk) and accommodate a base portion 220 that is thicker than the lid portion 215. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosures 100, 200 can be closed, providing no access to the inner regions 105, 205 and effectively shielding the contents of the privacy/security enclosures 100, 200 from RF signals, and/or preventing sounds outside the enclosure from being monitored. For example, as shown in
In some embodiments, the hinge mechanisms 107, 207 can comprise a conventional friction hinge (such as a conventional friction hinge found in a conventional laptop computer). In some other embodiments, the hinge mechanism can comprise an open hinge mechanism, such as the hinges distributed by Taili Glasses Parts Co., ltd. (http://www.tailiglassesparts.com/eyeglasses_hinges.html). In some other embodiments, the hinge mechanisms 107, 207 can comprise a closed hinge mechanism, and can be sourced through Alibaba.com (http://www.alibaba.com). ALIBABA″ and “ALIBABA.COM” and related icons and logos are registered trademarks or trademarks or service marks of Alibaba Group Holding Limited. In other embodiments, the hinge mechanisms 107, 207 can comprise other types of coupling members capable of allowing the pivoting portions of the privacy/security enclosures 100, 200 to pivot and/or rotate with respect to each other. For example, in some embodiments, the hinge mechanisms 107, 207 can comprise a conventional spring-clip.
In some further embodiments, the base and lid portions of the privacy/security enclosures 100, 200 can be decoupled. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosures 100, 200 can be configured to enable a user to separate the base and lid portions. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosures 100, 200 can include separate base and lid portions that can be matingly coupled and/or engaged by the user. Consequently, in some embodiments, a user can then choose to open the privacy/security enclosures 100, 200 by decoupling the base and lid portions.
In some embodiments, at least some portion of the privacy/security enclosure can include a radio-frequency shield (hereinafter referred to as an “RF shield”). As used herein, the term “RF shield” is intended to mean a barrier that is able to substantially attenuate, at least partially prevent transmission through, or at least partially block transmission of RF radiation (hereinafter referred to “RF”). For example, in some embodiments of the invention, the RF shield can attenuate (i.e. reduce in signal strength) an RF signal by about 100 dB. In some other embodiments, the RF shield can provide greater than about 100 dB signal attenuation. In some embodiments, the RF shield can attenuate an RF signal by less than about 100 dB while still disrupting effective communication.
In some embodiments, any privacy/security enclosure described herein can include an RF shield that can be capable of attenuating or at least partially blocking RF radiation from entering or exiting the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, this can allow for bandwidth selectable pass-through capabilities. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can form a Faraday cage capable of substantially attenuating RF signals (whether emitted from one or more mobile or stationary communication devices, or whether emitted from another source). For example, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the privacy/security enclosure is formed of a material substantially attenuating to RF radiation emitted from one or more mobile or stationary communication devices. In some other embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can be formed of a material including at least a portion that is capable of substantially attenuating radio-frequency radiation emitted from outside of the privacy/security enclosure. For example, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the RF shield and/or Faraday cage can comprise aluminum, magnesium, copper, steel, or other conductive metal, metallic paints or coatings, wire mesh fabrics in one or more layers or orientations etc., or plastics infused with conductive elements, conductive compounds, and/or conductive mixtures. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the Faraday cage can be optically translucent or transparent. Some embodiments can include a screen emulator. For example, in instances where the privacy/security enclosure includes substantial portions that are not optically transparent, a screen emulator can be used to replicate the enclosed device's screen on a screen that is outside of the privacy/security enclosure.
In some embodiments, one or more slots, windows, or openings can be formed in any portion of the privacy/security enclosure Faraday cage. In some embodiments, this can allow for features such as connecting internal and external antennas, each or all of which can provide varying levels of attenuation or gain at various frequencies. Further, in some embodiments, this can allow cables or wires to pass into the privacy/security enclosure for various purposes including charging the battery of internal devices, or the battery of the privacy/security enclosure, or to access any other internal component from the outside of the enclosure. Further, in some embodiments, the one or more slots, windows, or openings can be used to allow certain RF transmissions through based on the size and location of the slot/opening (e.g. such as in the case of the use of a slot antenna). Some embodiments of the invention can pass certain frequency ranges (with or without attenuation or gain) while attenuating other frequencies. In some embodiments, this can be achieved using one or more slots, windows, or openings that are configured in an open or partially open position. In some embodiments, when the one or more slots, windows, or openings that are configured in a closed configuration, some or all RF frequencies can be attenuated (thereby minimizing leakage).
Further, some embodiments can comprise mechanical or electro-mechanical switches and cut-offs, band pass filters, and other technologies, alone or in combination with each other and/or with antennas, repeaters, amplifiers and other such technologies.
In some embodiments, at least a portion of the privacy/security enclosure is formed of a material substantially attenuating RF radiation emitted to or from any RF antennas or transceivers when they are positioned inside the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a Faraday cage to substantially attenuate, or at least partially block reception of RF radiation. Some embodiments of the invention can comprise an RF shield layer positioned within or on at least a portion of a base portion, or a lid portion, or both. For example,
The privacy/security enclosure 300 shown includes an enclosure shell or housing 310 that encloses an inner region 320. Attached to the housing 310 is an RF shield layer 305. At least some portion of the RF shield layer 305 can be placed between the enclosure shell 310 (i.e., where the enclosure shell 310 as shown could be at least some portion of the base and/or at least some portion of the lid) and an enclosure liner 315. In other embodiments, the RF shield layer 305 can be placed in other regions of the privacy/security enclosure 300. For example, the RF shield layer 305 could be placed on the outside of the enclosure shell 310 (e.g., as a cover material) or embedded in the enclosure shell 310. In some embodiments, the enclosure shell layer 305 can include layers of metal, alloy, wire, a wire mesh, a pure metallic casing, or some other electrically conductive material. In other embodiments, the enclosure liner 315 can comprise the RF shield (i.e., the enclosure liner 315 performs a function of providing a physical lining of the enclosure and also functions as an RF shield). As shown in
In some embodiments, materials useful for fabricating an RF shield for at least one embodiment of the invention described herein can include materials comprising of metal, metal alloys, or any other conductive material including ultra-conductive film or coating. For example, some embodiments can include a polymer and/or carbon-fiber based layer (e.g., a film, coating or cover) that can include at least one conductive layer. Some embodiments can utilize LORD® “UltraConductive Film and Coatings for Lightning Strike Protection” products with 121 dB attenuation (found at the following web address: http://www.lord.com). In some embodiments, tests have shown that a carbon composite coated with the LORD® “UltraConductive Film” achieved 121 dB of EMI shielding, equivalent to that of a solid 1-mm thick aluminum layer.
Other materials useful for fabricating an RF shield for at least one embodiment of the invention can include materials comprising Lessemf.com, Y-Shield paint with 30 to 40 dB attenuation @ 1 to 18 GHz, http://www.lessemf.com/paint.html, an EMP Faraday Bag with 40 db @ 1 to 10 GHz, http://www.lessemf.com/cellphon.html, and shielding fabric with 50 to 80 dB @ 10 MHz to 3 GHz,)://www.lessemf.com/fabric.html
Still other materials useful for fabricating an RF shield for at least one embodiment of the invention can include materials comprising Ibagroup.com RF paint with 30 to 40 dB attenuation, see http://www.lbagroup.com/products/shielding-paints, and fabric with 80 to 100 db attenuation @ 200 MHz to 10 GHz, see http://www.lbagroup.com/products/rf-shielding-fabrics.
Other materials useful for fabricating an RF shield for at least one embodiment of the invention can include materials comprising an Aaronia RFI shield fabric with 80 to 100 db attenuation @ 1 GHz to 10 GHz, such as those available from Kaltman Creations, llc, see http://www.kaltmancreationsllc.com/rf-test-equipment-html/rf-sensitive-html/.
Other materials useful for fabricating an RF shield for at least one embodiment of the invention include 3M™ Dri-Shield (metalized polyester and polyethylene with 45 dB attenuation) available from 3M Company.
Still other materials useful for fabricating an RF shield for at least one embodiment of the invention include nickel coated graphite mats, nickel coated steel foils and copper mesh with 70 to 93 dB @ 10 MHz to 17 GHZ, available from Fiberforge (http://www.fiberforge.com).
In some further embodiments of the invention, materials useful to form an RF shield in one or more embodiments of the invention include a layer of material comprising a polymer-based matrix material including metal filaments dispersed in a matrix to form a polymer composite material. In some embodiments, the polymer matrix can comprise a homopolymer and/or copolymer, and can include at least one ceramic, and/or at least one polymer-ceramic mixture. For example, in some embodiments, the RF shield can comprise a layer of material comprising nickel filaments dispersed in polyethersulfone (“PES”) as disclosed in “Nickel Filament Polymer-Matrix Composites With Low Surface Impedance and High Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Effectiveness”, Xiaoping Shui and D. D. L. Chung, Journal of Electronic Materials, Vol. 26, No. 8, 1997.
In some other embodiments, materials useful in one or more embodiments of the invention include a layer of material comprising a carbon fiber-based matrix material including metal filaments dispersed in a matrix to form a carbon fiber composite material. In some embodiments, the carbon fiber matrix can comprise a homopolymer and/or copolymer, and can include at least one ceramic, and/or at least one polymer-ceramic mixture. In some embodiments, the metal filaments can comprise nickel filaments. In some further embodiments, the metal filaments can include copper filaments and/or stainless steel filaments.
Some embodiments of the invention can include using fabrics with copper or metallic wire/wire mesh woven into base fabric, with layering and/or crossed fabric layers. In some embodiments, an RF shield can be placed between layers of cloth fabric. For example, in some embodiments, an RF shield layer as described earlier can be formed into or embedded in a cloth fabric. In this example embodiment, the cloth layer can then be used to line at least some portion of the inner region (e.g., the inner region of the base portion, or lid portion or both, and/or at least some portion of the outside of the privacy/security enclosure).
As described earlier,
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include a cover that is capable of at least partially covering at least one video camera within at least one user device. In some embodiments, the cover can be the base or lid portion, and/or can comprise a further structural component integrated within, coupled with, or included within the privacy/security enclosure. For example, in some embodiments, at least some portion of the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a material that is at least partially or substantially fully attenuating to visible light radiation. For example, in some embodiments, the lid portion can comprise a translucent region or “window”, capable of allowing some light to enter and exit the privacy/security enclosure. In this instance, a user can be able to view the presence or absence of any mobile or stationary communication device within a closed privacy/security enclosure (i.e., the user can understand the presence of the device without opening the privacy/security enclosure). However, in this instance, the translucent region would not enable a user or another individual or imaging device to read and comprehend a visual display of the communication device, or read and comprehend any information printed or inscribed on the communication device. In some other embodiments, other portions of the privacy/security enclosure can include at least one region capable of at least partially attenuating visible light radiation. For example, some embodiments include a base portion and/or a lid with one or more translucent regions. In some embodiments, one or more cameras (i.e., still or moving picture recording apparatus sensitive to the visible light, infra-red light and/or UV light) will be attenuated to an extent that renders video recording devices enclosed within the privacy/security enclosure incapable of recording images outside of the enclosure. In some other embodiments of the invention, other sensors of enclosed devices such as light, proximity, heat/thermal, biometric and other such sensors will be partially or substantially fully blocked by the privacy/security enclosure.
In some further embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can suppress sound to substantially eliminate eavesdropping. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can substantially block and/or damp the signals reaching audio sensors and microphones. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include audio blocking so that typical conversation-level audio outside the privacy/security enclosure will not be intelligible or discernible by the enclosed device's microphone. In some embodiments, the enclosure can include sound dampening layers/materials. For example, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the privacy/security enclosure is formed of a material substantially attenuating sound emitted from one or more mobile or stationary communication devices. In some other embodiments, at least a portion of the privacy/security enclosure is formed of a material substantially attenuating sound emitted from outside of the privacy/security enclosure.
In some further embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can suppress the ability of various other sensors when enclosed within the privacy/security enclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can substantially block and/or damp the signals reaching other sensors such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers. In some embodiments, the enclosure can include materials configured to at least partially block or attenuate a signal that would normally be sensed by any accelerometers, gyroscopes, or magnetometers that may be coupled to one or more enclosed devices.
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a structure that includes at least one sound attenuation layer. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include a sound attenuation layer coupled with the enclosure liner 315 shown in
In some embodiments, sound attenuation can be accomplished by increasing the thickness of one or more regions of the privacy/security enclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a base portion and/or a lid portion with increased thickness to provide a level of sound attenuation that is greater than that provided for base portion and/or a lid portions that are thinner. In some embodiments, when the base portion and/or lid portion comprises an inner and outer shell, either the inner shell or outer shell or both can be made thicker in order to provide increased sound attenuation. Increasing the thickness of any portion of the privacy/security enclosure can increase the mass of the privacy/security enclosure in some embodiments.
By definition, every frequency has a corresponding wavelength (impacted by phase velocity). In some embodiments, for any privacy/security enclosure, there can be a frequency that resonates based at least in part on its dimensions, material of construction, and mass. If the resonant frequency falls within the audible frequency spectrum, it is more likely that the sound pressure wave will pass to the interior of the privacy/security enclosure. However, in some embodiments, the stiffness or shape of the privacy/security enclosure can push these resonant frequencies away and/or out of the audible voice range. In some embodiments, the material used, its mass, formed shape, and any reinforcing structures such as internal ribbing can increase the stiffness for a particular dimension and modify sound resonance within the privacy/security enclosure.
In some embodiments, sound attenuation can be accomplished using at least one low pressure or vacuum region or pocket within the privacy/security enclosure. For example, one or more vacuum pockets can be integrated in a base portion and/or a lid portion of a privacy/security enclosure to provide a sound attenuation function. In some embodiments, the vacuum pocket can be integrated into a wall of the base portion or the lid portion, integrated within an inner shell coupled to an outer shell of the base or lid portions, or formed by coupling an inner shell to an outer shell to form a vacuum pocket between the inner and outer shells. In some embodiments, a vacuum pump can create at least a partial vacuum in at least a portion of the interior of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, the vacuum pump can be a separate unit or integrated into the privacy/security enclosure in some embodiments, and can be actuated in various known ways including a motor or a manual actuator.
Some embodiments include other sound attenuation that can be used alone, or with those described previously. Some embodiments of the invention can include at least one vibration dampener. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include at least one material and/or at least one component capable of attenuating a vibration. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include a vibration dampening coating. The coating can be applied to at least some region of a base portion and/or a lid portion (including for example be applied to one or more metal regions or components). In some further embodiments, the vibration dampening coating can comprise a lead-impregnated vinyl. In some other embodiments, the vibration dampening can be achieved using an aerogel material in the form of a coating, sheet, or one or more layers. In other embodiments, the vibration dampening coating can include at least one conventional acoustical dampening material.
In some embodiments, sound attenuation can be enabled using at least one vibration damping structural feature capable of coupling with any surface of any enclosed device. For example, in some embodiments, sound attenuation can be enabled using at least one structural feature capable of coupling with one or more microphones of an enclosed device. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include at least one structural sound attenuator (e.g., such as a cap or header or footer) positioned inside the privacy/security enclosure that is capable of pressing against one or more microphones of any enclosed device in order to reduce, muffle, and/or substantially block sound from being picked-up by the one or more microphones.
Some embodiments include a vibration damping structural feature comprising an isolation cage. For example, in some embodiments, one or more regions of the privacy/security enclosure can include a suspended vibration isolation cage. In some embodiments, at least one user device can be placed within the vibration isolation cage, and suspended within the privacy/security enclosure in order to attenuate vibrations reaching or being emitted from one or more enclosed devices. Some embodiments include a suspended vibration isolation cage coupled to an inner surface of the privacy/security enclosure using a conventional suspension mount. For example, in some embodiments, the vibration isolation cage can be coupled to an inner surface of the privacy/security enclosure using a coupler comprising an elastomeric material. In other embodiments, the coupler can comprised a fluid-filled chamber in which the fluid is selected for its attenuation of certain vibration frequency ranges.
Some embodiments can include passive acoustical protection using multiple air-to-enclosure boundaries. In this instance, each successive boundary can provide additional attenuation. For example, as depicted in the assembly view of
In some embodiments, while the assembly shown in
Some embodiments of the invention can enable a user to upgrade and/or customize and/or maintain the acoustical dampening of the privacy/security enclosure. For example, as shown in
In some embodiments, two portions of the privacy/security enclosure 650 can include at least one o-ring capable of sealing at least a portion of the privacy/security enclosure 650. Further, in some embodiments, the at least one sealing o-ring can comprise a substantially airtight or near airtight seal formed substantially around the seam of the privacy/security enclosure 650. In this instance, when the privacy/security enclosure 650 is closed, the airtight seal reduces the sound waves reaching the target microphone. Other benefits include air, water and dust protection. Further, in some embodiments, at least a portion of one or more portions of the privacy/security enclosure can include a copper plated lining and/or layer. For example,
Some embodiments of the invention can include a combination of sound attenuation technologies. For example, as shown in
Some embodiments of the invention include active acoustical control. For example, some embodiments include active masking of audio listening devices using at least one audio masking device. In some embodiments, active acoustical control can comprise at least one sound generator (such as a speaker) transmitting audio masking signals such that any enclosed microphone and/or microphone recording of one or more targeted devices is not able to distinguish the masking signals from other audio content that may or may not have been present at the time of the broadcast of the masking signal. In some embodiments, the audio content can comprise babble, chirps, pink noise, or white noise. Thus, in some embodiments sound is recorded but audibly buried with the signals that are broadcast so that the sounds are substantially indistinguishable from the masking signal. A variety of masking sounds can be used for this purpose including, but not limited to high or low frequency sounds (including those outside of unassisted human perception). In some instances, the audio masker can be a standalone feature or device, and can include a powered speaker option. For example,
In some further embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include an acoustical attenuation comprising an elastomeric suspension that is removable from the privacy/security enclosure to allow easy fitting of the phone. As illustrated in
Some embodiments include selective activation of acoustical masking. For example, in order to conserve power or to minimize obtrusive noise, some embodiments include a microphone capable of detecting the presence of speech. In some embodiments, when speech is detected, noise is broadcast to at least partially mask the speech (through a process of listening and responding). In some further embodiments, a broadcast tail (e.g. some time period, which may vary based on goal) can be used when speech is no longer detected (to accommodate pauses in conversation). Further, some embodiments include varying the power level of the noise signal being broadcasted based on the volume of speech detected. Further, some embodiments of the invention include broadcasting a low volume of sound substantially all of the time. Some embodiments of the invention can also include various controls (e.g., buttons or some other such interface) that can allow users to either activate or bypass the listen and response and/or other features. In some embodiments, a user can use the controls to selectively broadcast noise continuously at varying power levels, or to turn the device off entirely to allow for calls, or for some other such purpose, including those in which no audio masking is desired.
Some embodiments of the invention include access ports. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include at least one slot or aperture configured to allow access to a device port. In some embodiments, at least some portion of the base and/or the lid of the privacy/security enclosure can include one or more apertures or slots that can enable access to an enclosed device. In some embodiments, one or more access ports can enable power, audio, video, or other signals to be transmitted into and out of the privacy/security enclosure. Further, in some embodiments, a power supply, an audio signal, and/or a video signal can be transferred into or from any device within the privacy/security enclosure while substantially attenuating or substantially blocking receipt and transmission of RF signals to and from the privacy/security enclosure.
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include at least one accessory pouch. For example, as shown in
In some embodiments, at least some portion of the privacy/security enclosure can include a colored covering. For example, in some embodiments, at least some portion of the base portion or lid portion of the privacy/security enclosure can be colored (e.g., the base or lid can be red in color). In some embodiments, at least some portion of the privacy/security enclosure can include a multiple colored covering. For example, in some embodiments, at least some portion of the base or the lid of the privacy/security enclosure can comprise multiple colors.
Some embodiments include a privacy/security enclosure that can include a patterned surface. For example, in some embodiments, at least some portion of the base or the lid of the privacy/security enclosure can include a patterned surface. In some embodiments, at least some portion of the base or the lid of the privacy/security enclosure can include printed text. In some embodiments, at least some portion of the base or the lid of the privacy/security enclosure can be textured.
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include a covering layer. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a substantially structurally supporting member including for example a base and lid portion, and at least some portion of the base or the lid of the privacy/security enclosure can be covered by at least one covering layer. In some embodiments, the covering layer can comprise carbon fiber. In other embodiments, the covering layer can comprise a polymer film or a fabric-based material. In some embodiments, the shape of the outer surface of the privacy/security enclosure can dictate the material used for the covering layer and the process used to couple the covering layer to the outer surface of the privacy/security enclosure shell (e.g., by coupling to either the base portion or the lid portion).
In some further embodiments, colors, patterns, textures, prints, or inserted materials can be applied to inside of the privacy/security enclosure (e.g., to liners, accessories, socks, and/or blocking foams etc.,) as well as to hinges and/or latches on the outside of the privacy/security enclosure.
Some further embodiments of the invention include a privacy/security enclosure design comprising at least one outside cover feature. For example,
As described earlier, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can be closed. In some instances, closure and sealing of a base and lid portion of a privacy/security enclosure can be facilitated by the use of at least one tongue and groove. As discussed earlier,
In some embodiments, any privacy/security enclosure described herein can include two closely spaced tongue and groove structures (e.g., as represented by the cross-sectional view of
In some embodiments, the one or more grooves can extend around an outer perimeter of the inner region (e.g., as shown in the example embodiment of
In some embodiments, any privacy/security enclosure disclosed herein can include an upper ring and a lower ring, in which the upper ring is capable of engaging the lower ring to form a seal. The upper ring can include at least two members capable of engaging a plurality of slots or grooves within the lower ring, and the lower ring can include a plurality of members capable of engaging a plurality of slots or grooves within the upper ring. In some further embodiments, the lower ring can include at least two members capable of engaging a plurality of slots or grooves within the upper ring, and the upper ring can include a plurality of members capable of engaging a plurality of slots or grooves within the lower ring. In some other embodiments, the upper ring can include at least one member capable of engaging a plurality of slots or grooves within the lower ring, and the lower ring can include one or more members capable of engaging one or more slots or grooves within the upper ring. In some further embodiments, the lower ring can include at least one member capable of engaging one or more slots or grooves within the upper ring, and the upper ring can include a plurality of members capable of engaging one or more slots or grooves within the lower ring.
Various numbers of grooves can be used in some embodiments. For example, one embodiment of a dual groove structure can be seen in
In some embodiments, the formed seal can be capable of functioning as an environmental barrier in addition to functioning as an RF shield. For example, in some embodiments, the formed seal can be capable of providing a water and/or moisture barrier in addition to function as an RF shield. In some embodiments, the plurality of o-rings seals 2040, 2050 shown in
In some embodiments, more than one type of o-ring can be used with any of the upper members of the upper ring and the slots of the lower ring, and/or between any of the members of the lower ring and the slots of the upper ring structures described above. In some embodiments, each o-ring type can be optimized for a specific function (either to at least partially block or attenuate RF, sound, light, moisture, etc.). However, any one o-ring can function to attenuate or at least partially block a combination of RF, sound, light, etc. For example, in some embodiments, one or more of the o-rings can function to attenuate RF, and one or more o-rings can function to attenuate sound, and one or more o-rings can function as an environmental barrier. Moreover, in some embodiments, one or more of the o-rings can be large or smaller than one or more other o-rings. For example, in some embodiments, one or more of the grooves can be larger or smaller than one or more other groove so as to be capable of cradling a complementarily-sized o-ring.
Some embodiments include alternative arrangements and geometries for providing a configurable privacy/security enclosure. For example,
In some embodiments, the bottom enclosure portion 2115 and the lid portion 2110 can at least partially enclose and/or cradle one or more mobile or stationary communication devices within their respective inner regions 2130, 2135. Moreover, in some embodiments, at least some portion of at least one mobile or stationary communication device can be enclosed by the bottom enclosure portion 2115, and at least some portion (e.g., an upper portion 10a) of the mobile or stationary communication device can extend outwardly from the inner region 2130 defined by the bottom enclosure portion 2115.
In some embodiments, the lid portion 2110 can include a latching mechanism 2127, and the bottom enclosure portion 2115 can include a latch 2125 coupled to the at least one side of the bottom enclosure portion 2115 of the privacy/security enclosure 2100. Further, the lid portion 2110 can include a latch coupling 2140 coupled to at least one side of the lid portion 2110 of the privacy/security enclosure 2100. In some embodiments, the coupling 2140 can be coupled with the latch 2125. For example, in some embodiments, when the bottom enclosure portion 2115 and the lid portion 2110 are pivoted so as to be coupled together (i.e., the pivot angle P between the bottom enclosure portion 2115 and the lid portion 2110 is about zero), the privacy/security enclosure 2100 is closed and at least some portion of the latch 2125 can couple with the latch coupling 2140 to secure the bottom enclosure portion 2115 to the lid portion 2110. In some other embodiments, the latch 2125 can include other structures suitable for engaging and securing the bottom enclosure portion 2115 to the lid portion 2110, including conventional clips, magnetic latches, Velcro latches, etc.
Some embodiments include an alternative arrangement and geometry for providing a configurable privacy/security enclosure. For example,
In some other embodiments, the bottom enclosure portions 2115, 2210 can be longer or shorter than shown. For example, in some embodiments, the bottom enclosure portions 2115, 2210 can be longer to enable a greater proportion of a mobile or stationary communication device to be enclosed and cradled, and to allow a lesser proportion of a mobile or stationary communication device to extend outwardly and away from the bottom portion. In some embodiments, this can provide a user or casual observer reduced access to one or more displays or one or more controls of one or more mobile or stationary communication devices. Conventional optical filters can also be used to limit casual observer observation in some embodiments.
In some other embodiments, at least a portion of the bottom portion or the lid portion of any of the privacy/security enclosures shown in
Some embodiments include an alternative arrangement and geometry for providing a configurable privacy/security enclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include an inner region, capable of extending or retracting one or more mobile or stationary communication devices. In some embodiments, a device cradled within the inner region of the privacy/security enclosure can be extended out of the inner region and/or retracted into the inner region.
Some embodiments include other arrangements and geometry for providing a configurable privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, the lid portion can be a telescoping and retracting lid. For example, in some embodiments, the lid portions 115, 215 as shown in
Some embodiments of the invention include an onboard power source. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include at least one power source capable of providing power to the privacy/security enclosure and/or one or more devices within the privacy/security enclosure. Some embodiments of the invention include a rechargeable and/or replaceable battery capable of powering enclosure components such as microcontrollers and processors, speakers, and sound drivers, one or more light sources (such as LED's), switches, power amplifiers, signal generators, and any of numerous other electronic components. Some embodiments of the invention include a rechargeable and/or replaceable battery or another rechargeable and/or replaceable power source such as a power storage capacitor. For example, in some embodiments, any one of the privacy/security enclosures described herein can comprise or include a rechargeable and/or replaceable battery or other rechargeable and/or replaceable power source capable of charging a user device while positioned in the privacy/security enclosure. In this example embodiment, power can be delivered by plugging into an external power socket such as a wall socket or a car adapter socket. Further, some embodiments include an onboard power source such as a rechargeable and/or replaceable battery or other power source (such as a power storage capacitor) as a sole power source that can be capable of charging a user device while positioned in the privacy/security enclosure. In this instance, the onboard power source can be capable of charging the user device and/or can be capable of powering the user device.
Any of the embodiments depicted in the figures and description above can include passive attenuation or at least partial blocking of at least one of RF, sound, and/or light as described earlier and/or signals detectable by sensors within targeted devices (e.g. gyroscopes, accelerometers, magnetometers, light sensors, proximity sensors, cameras, thermal sensors etc.) Some further embodiments can include an active/powered attenuating, at least partially blocking, interfering and/or masking of at least one of RF, sound, light and/or signals detectable by sensors within contained devices, some of which are illustrated in
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure includes at least one system capable of active/powered attenuation. In some embodiments, since regulatory requirements may not allow transmission of interfering RF signals at the desired level, positioning one or more RF transmitters along or inside of an RF shield may reduce transmissions to acceptable levels outside of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, while not a regulatory constraint, the same concept applies to active audio masking, with a benefit of any active audio transmission being less obtrusive because it is attenuated by the passive audio attenuation characteristics of the privacy/security enclosure.
In some further embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include at least one system capable of actively attenuating and/or substantially masking or blocking sound and/or vibration. Other embodiments include at least one system capable of passively or actively attenuating or substantially blocking video and/or video or imaging (e.g., by passively or actively blocking a video camera). Other embodiments include at least one system capable of passively or actively attenuating, confusing, altering or substantially blocking data gathered by other sensors contained on a device targeted/within the privacy/security enclosure including, but not limited to, sensors such as thermometers, motion sensors, compass, proximity sensors, magnetic sensors, gyroscopes, gravitational sensors, thermal imaging sensors, humidity sensors, barometric sensors, UV sensors, step counters, orientation sensors, gaming sensors, rotational sensors, molecular sensors, olfactory sensors, accelerometers and others.
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can actively substantially block or interfere with an electronic communication. For example, the electronic communication can comprise an RF signal (such as a cellular, WiFi, a GPS signal, and a Bluetooth® signal), and/or an RFID or other RF tracking device. In some other embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include a conventional RF jammer. In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can include or comprise a rechargeable and/or replaceable battery enclosure capable of providing power to an RF jammer. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can passively and/or actively attenuate and/or interfere with or at least partially block substantially all RF transmission including, but not limited to, a zero generation wireless signal, a first generation wireless signal, a second generation wireless signal, a third generation wireless signal, a fourth generation wireless signal, a fifth generation wireless signal, a global positioning satellite signal, (such as “GPS” or “GLONASS”), a Bluetooth wireless signal, RFID electromagnetic radiation, a WIFI wireless signal, a two-way radio RF signal, a UHF or VHF signal (such as a citizen's band radio signal or other radio signal emitted from a ‘walkie talkie’ type device), high-speed and millimeter wave signals, and a near-field wireless signal. In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can include at least one transmitter capable of emitting a blocking or interfering signal. In some embodiments, the blocking or interfering signal can be capable of attenuation, interfering with and/or at least partially blocking a signal from passing through the privacy/security enclosure, and can at least partially block, interfere and/or attenuate a signal confined to an area proximity of device, including inside and outside of the privacy/security enclosure. Further, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can at least partially block and/or attenuate a signal when the privacy/security enclosure is closed (i.e., when the enclosure is enclosing one or more user devices, or when the privacy/security enclosure is open). In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can emit a blocking or interfering signal when the enclosure is open or when the enclosure is closed.
In some embodiments, noise and/or a ripple is added to the DC power supply or ground inside the communication device. Some embodiments can include capacitive, inductive coupling, antenna coupling, or direct connection introduction of noise. In some embodiments, single tone swept signal sources, band filtered white noise, multiple tones with modulation, or some combination of these techniques across some or all frequency bands can be used. In some embodiments, various tone types or noise sources (or combination thereof) can be generated in non-regulated frequency bands (or within the transmission limits of regulated frequency bands) such that the sources interweave to create interfering signals in restricted regulatory bands. In some embodiments, induced noise and/or a ripple can affect RF subsystems of some communication devices (e.g., such as the frequency synthesizers). In some embodiments, noise and/or a ripple is added that can defeat multiple DC regulators within the communication device.
In some embodiments, passive components designed to alter a phone's antenna behavior are placed in strategic locations near the phone's antennas. For example,
Some embodiments include the addition of electronic switches or phase shifters that allow more complex antenna structures to be configurable electronically. As depicted in
In some embodiments, one or more features of one or more communication devices can be modified. For example,
Some embodiments include inductive coupling interference directly into critical circuits inside the communication device. For example,
Some further embodiments can include the use of a transparent Faraday cage (e.g., as depicted in
Some embodiments include an option to enhance communication when the privacy/security enclosure and/or any enclosed user device is not in a blocking mode. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure and/or the user's device(s) can be controlled to enable or disable communication of RF, sound, and/or light or other signals detectable by sensors within the targeted device. In some embodiments, these features can be activated directly by a control on or within the privacy/security enclosure and/or within the user's device(s), or by a remote device.
Further, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include an option to selectively at least partially block or unblock one or more communication frequencies. In this instance, the communication frequency can be an RF frequency, an audio frequency, or a light frequency. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure and/or the user's device(s) can be controlled to partially or substantially fully enable or disable communication of one or more frequencies of RF, sound, light and/or other signals detectable by sensors within the targeted device(s). In some embodiments, these features can be activated directly by a control within the privacy/security enclosure, and/or on or within the user's device, or by a remote device. In some embodiments, attenuation and/or masking and interference of all RF, sound, and/or light frequencies can be turned off or turned on. Further, in some embodiments, frequency selection can be used to control the passage and emission of RF, sound or light frequencies to and from the enclosed user device(s) without affecting other internal functions of the user device (e.g., no disruption of internal function of devices such as smart phones, tablets, or laptops are affected, and calendars, MP3 players, readers, apps, games etc. that do not require the interfered with, masked or blocked signal to function), while positioned within an inner region of the privacy/security enclosure.
Some embodiments of the invention include one or more systems to measure ambient field levels. For example, in some embodiments, ambient field levels of RF, sound, and/or light can be measured for purposes of actively interfering with, masking or blocking RF, sound or light. In some embodiments, measurements can be made by at least one component of the privacy/security enclosure and/or by one or more user devices coupled to the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, ambient field levels can be provided as a function of strength of various frequencies.
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include at least one active interfering, masking and/or blocking control of RF, sound and/or light or other signal whose output is impacted by one or more variables provided by one or more systems to measure ambient field levels. For example, in some embodiments, ambient field levels of RF, sound, and/or light can be measured for purposes of actively interfering, masking and/or at least partially blocking RF, sound or light at an interfering, masking and/or blocking power level required for a specific effect.
In some further embodiments of the invention, a privacy/security enclosure can comprise at least one component or device for active blocking of video devices. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include at least one device capable of blinding a camera to prevent unauthorized view. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include at least one light source capable of overdriving a camera and/or imaging chip. For example, in some embodiments, at least one light emitting diode can be configured to overdrive an imaging device of a user's device(s) with the privacy/security enclosure. In other embodiments, other light or optical sources can be used to blind and/or overdrive an imaging device.
Some embodiments can include active attenuating, interfering, masking and/or substantially blocking of sound. Further, in some embodiments, active attenuation can be configured to modify how sound is received, processed, and transmitted by the communication device. For example,
Some embodiments of the invention can utilize parasitic noise. For example,
Some embodiments of the invention can deploy electrically produced noise. Some embodiments can use electrically produced noise (via a speaker for example) to mask the sound picked up by the microphone. For example, some embodiments include a chirp or warble noise that can be a single tone with a frequency that evolves with time (see for example
Some embodiments include an electromagnetic source to produce a parasitic signal close to the phone (source 3205 directed to privacy/security enclosure 3200 depicted in
In some further embodiments, a physical barrier can be used to attenuate sound. For example,
In some embodiments, an assembly of acoustical attenuation covers can form an envelope covering a portion of one or more communication devices (such as a smart phone). For example, some embodiments can comprise a sock-like enclosure that can cover all or a partial portion of one or more communication devices. In some embodiments, the sock-like enclosure can include or be coupled to one or more acoustical attenuation materials or structures capable of muffling one or more microphones within the communication device. For example,
Some embodiments of the invention can comprise a double sock design that uses two end covers that are connected with an elastic band. Further, in some embodiments, the upper and/or lower sock covering can apply blocking material (such as a foam material) against microphone ports covered by or adjacent to the respective sock. In this instance, an axial force applied by the elastic band and the upper sock can force the blocking material against the lower microphone port to increase sound attenuation. In other embodiments, the axial force applying the blocking material to microphones covered by or adjacent to a respective sock can be generated by springs, friction springs, ratchets, or any of a variety of other mechanisms. In some further embodiments, the upper sock or interior linings or other portions of the interior of the enclosure (or blockers attached to or part of the base or lid of the enclosure) can apply the blocking material to one or more microphone ports located on the top and bottom of the enclosed device(s). In this instance, the sock assembly enclosing one or more communication devices can float inside the enclosure or can include clearance holes. In this instance, blocking material pads located on the top and bottom covers can squeeze the phone between the privacy/security enclosure halves only when the privacy/security enclosure is closed, nearly closed or when the sock is in a down position (regardless of the open/close status of the enclosure itself). Moreover, in this configuration, the upper and lower sock can provide vibration isolation to one or more enclosed communication devices.
In some embodiments, the sock-like enclosure can comprise a single piece, and in other embodiments, the sock-like enclosure can comprise a plurality of coupled pieces. Some embodiments can include one or more gaps or apertures in the sock. In some embodiments, the sock-like enclosure can include portions that are disposable or re-useable. In some embodiments, various portions of the sock-like enclosure can be approximately equal in size. In other embodiments, portions of the sock-like enclosure can be smaller or larger than other portions. For example,
Some embodiments of the privacy/security enclosure can include other vibration and/or acoustical attenuation materials such as gels and gel-like materials. For example,
Some embodiments include other mechanical assemblies to assist in one or more sealing operations within the privacy/security enclosure. For example,
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include at least one sock-like enclosure that is at least partially mechanized. For example,
In some embodiments, the moveable cradle 4840 can include one or more apertures or slotted portions to facilitate access to one or more functions of a cradled device. For example, as shown in at least
In further embodiments, the moveable cradle 4840 can comprise one or more holes 4840b (and clustered into groups in some embodiments) in specific areas of the upper and/or lower sock assembly 4800. In some embodiments, this can allow sound to pass to or from the interior of the sock assembly 4800 (i.e. to allow use of the speakerphone microphone and speaker while the phone or other device is in the sock assembly 4800). In some embodiments, a device positioned in the cradle and sock assembly 4800 while it is in a fixed position may have audio blocking material applied to a microphone(s) enclosed by or adjacent to a sock. In some embodiments, when the device is released from the fixed position, mechanisms to push the device away from such audio blocking material can be included in the sock assembly 4800. For example, in some embodiments, the mechanisms can be one or more springs or material that reverts to an expanded volume when not under some level of pressure or any other such typical mechanism. In some embodiments, a construct attached to a portion of the interior, interior lining or privacy/security enclosure base or lid can be used to ensure that sock assemblies 4800 are pushed to a downward position (regardless of whether or not they are enclosing a transmission device), when the enclosure is being closed. In some embodiments, this configuration can prevent damage occurring to interior mechanisms, assemblies, and other such contents by the closing and/or latching of the enclosure. In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can include one or more mating plugs for headphone, power, and other such ports can be included in various sock mechanisms to assist users with the proper orientation of their device in the sock. In some further embodiments, privacy/security enclosure sock assemblies can provide pass through holes for charging cables or other features, enabling charging or other functions while the communication device is in the sock and the enclosure is open or closed. Other embodiments of the invention can comprise a privacy/security enclosure that can provide for charging devices (or other such functions) while one or more devices are in the sock (regardless of whether open or closed). In some embodiments, this can be achieved via mating connectors (i.e. male connectors on the interior of the sock assembly 4800 plugged into the device itself while in the sock). In some embodiments, the male connectors can then be connected through the sock assembly 4800 to female connectors on the exterior of the sock assembly 4800. In some embodiments, native power and other such cables (e.g. for headsets etc.) can be plugged, mimicking the functionality of being plugged directly into the device itself), and enabling power cables (or other functions) to connect to the sock (and thus through to the enclosed device) at angles and in positions no longer constrained by the device's position within the sock or privacy/security enclosure.
In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure including a sock assembly 4800 can have the ability to handle multiple makes, models, and types of devices, while still providing levels of audio, video, RF and other forms of protections. For example, in some embodiments, the sock assembly 4800 can be sized to house the largest of the supported devices and have mechanisms that guide and/or secure or grip a varying number of smaller devices via clamping, springing, elastic or other such mechanisms.
In some embodiments of the enclosure, the positioning of blocking foams, tuning of speaker volumes, and placement of active audio protection speakers and/or microphones can be tuned to be able to handle multiple supported devices within the same enclosure. In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can include active audio components broadcasting masking sounds into a sock assembly 4800, regardless of whether the enclosure is open or closed, and adjustable seals can be used at the entry of the sock assembly 4800 in order to reduce masking audio sounds leaving the interior of the sock.
In some embodiments, the cradle assembly 4805 can be slidably moved in the sock assembly 4800.
In some embodiments, the cradle assembly 4805 can be slidably moved between defined positions defined a position ladder 4850 within the guide base 4820 of the sock assembly 4800. For example,
Some embodiments of the previously mentioned sock assembly 4800 can include one or more defined positions, which in some embodiments can enable an enclosed device to be positioned up to an angle of about 90° with a level surface. In some embodiments, the device can be moved from an elevated position in the sock assembly 4800 to a substantially flat position (i.e., substantially parallel with the surface that is supporting the privacy/security enclosure). Some embodiments can use a tensioner such as a spring 4870, multiple springs, a dampened spring, a spring-loaded or biased peg, or other conventional biasing element to apply a force to the device in one or more elevated or angled positions and when moving the device from one defined position to another defined position.
For example, in some embodiments, the cradle 4840 can be pivotally positioned in the sock assembly 4800. In some embodiments, the cradle 4840 can include a pivot mechanism (pivot 4860) for pivotally positioning at least one device within the sock assembly 4800. Further, in some embodiments, when pivotally positioned in the cavity of the sock assembly 4800, a cradled device can be pivotally positioned toward or away and/or at least partially out of the sock assembly 4800 by pivotally moving the cradle 4840 in the sock assembly 4800 using the pivot mechanism 4860. For example,
In some embodiments, the cradle 4840 can be pivotally rotated using the pivot mechanism 4860 by rotating the pivot gear 4865 to engage at least one of the plurality of position ridges 4861 with the position stop 4862. In some embodiments, as the cradle 4840 is pivoted out away from the sock assembly 4800, the tensioner (spring 4870) can extend and store potential energy. Moreover, in some embodiments, any stored potential energy within the tensioner can be used to at least partially move the cradle 4840. For example, in some embodiments, an extended tensioner can be used to reversibly pivot the cradle 4840 and move the cradle 4840 towards the sock assembly 4800 housing and/or return the cradle 4840 to a prior position adjacent or within the sock assembly 4800 housing. Further, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the tensioner can be viewed and/or accessed through the rear of the sock assembly 4800.
In some embodiments, any device positioned within the cradle assembly can be rotated away from the sock assembly 4800 and/or rotated towards the sock assembly 4800. For example, in some embodiments, a device (such as a phone) can be positioned into the cradle 4840 and pivoted towards and away from the sock assembly 4800 using the pivot mechanism 4860 as described above. In some embodiments, a user can rotate the cradle 4840 to facilitate positioning or using a device within the cradle 4840. For example, in some embodiments, the cradle 4840 can be pivoted away from the sock assembly 4800 housing using the pivot mechanism, and a device (such as a phone) can be positioned into the cradle 4840. In some embodiments, a user can use the pivot gear 4865 to engage at least one of the plurality of position ridges/position stops (or infinite positions with pivot mechanisms using a tensioned spring or other such mechanism) such that a device can be more easily loaded into the cradle 4840 or used/operated while within the cradle 4840. In some embodiments, the position (flat or elevated to any degree) of the device (such as a phone) can modify the security level applied by the privacy/security enclosure. For example, in some embodiments, when the device is lying flat in the privacy/security enclosure, a basic level of audio security can include the device operating normally except for using one or more of the microphones enclosed by or adjacent to any of the sock assemblies (e.g. via the application of attenuating technologies such as blocking foam or speakers transmitting a masking signal) or being compressed against blocking foam on the bottom side of the enclosure or enclosure liner or interior. In other embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can be configured so that one or more microphones covered by any portion of the sock mechanism can include an audio masking signal applied within or near to the sock, and interfering with the microphone's ability to record and recover non-masking audio content, regardless of sock position/elevation.
In some embodiments, one or more antennas can be positioned on the outside of the Faraday cage of a privacy/security enclosure, and tuned to one or more frequencies (e.g., wideband frequencies). In some embodiments, the one or more antennas can be coupled to one or more antennas internal to the Faraday cage. In some embodiments, the antennas can be permanent or switchable (e.g., switchable using a mechanical or electro-mechanical switch). The antenna gain, directionality, radiation pattern, and coupling characteristics to other antennas can be changed and modified to meet any specific performance standard.
In some embodiments, the performance characteristics can be modified by a variety of parameters including the distance to the Faraday cage (which can detune antennas), the type of dielectric material used in the antenna, and the choice of electromagnetic band gap structures or other such materials or devices to optimize antenna performance. In some embodiments, the combination of these capabilities are used to allow all or a specific subset of frequencies into the privacy/security enclosure, and through to the housed device. In some embodiments, examples of selective frequency antenna use can include for example, allowing Bluetooth® through to play music in the car on the car's speakers, allowing cellular signals through to receive calls, allowing NFC/RFID through for mobile payments/checkout while at least partially blocking all other frequencies etc., and not attenuating WiFi, GPS or Bluetooth® such that retail stores or other entities, devices, or people cannot or have more difficulty tracking movement and/or location.
Some embodiments of the invention include a privacy/security enclosure including one or more external antennas that can comprise of one more antennas with a wide bandwidth to cover cellular, GPS, WIFI/BT (700 M-2.7 GHz+margin) and/or one or more antennas to operate within narrow, more specific frequency bands (e.g. Bluetooth). In some embodiments, the external antenna(s) can include a high antenna gain (to compensate for coupling and connection loss). In some further embodiments, the external antenna(s) can preserve the cellular antenna pattern, and in some embodiments, the antenna(s) can be omni-directional. In some embodiments, the external antenna(s) can be configured to function near a metal surface (e.g., such as a shield box).
Some embodiments of the invention include a privacy/security enclosure including one or more internal/coupling antenna. In some embodiments, the one or more internal/coupling antenna can be capable of operating at a wide bandwidth to cover cellular, GPS, WIFI/BT (700 M-2.7 GHz+margin) and/or be tuned to best operate within narrow, more specific frequency bands (e.g. Bluetooth® etc.). In some embodiments, the internal/coupling antenna can include a high coupling efficiency, and be capable of functioning near a metal surface (e.g., such as a shield box). In some embodiments, the internal/coupling antenna can be compatible with multiple cell phones. In some embodiments, the internal/coupling antenna can enable selectivity options for cellular and connectivity (GPS, WIFI/BT) (i.e. through filtering technologies, antenna tuning, etc.)
Some embodiments of the invention can include a privacy/security enclosure comprising an internal/coupling antenna(s) and an external antenna(s). For example,
As illustrated in
Further, as shown in
In some embodiments, any number of the features described earlier can be implemented in the privacy/security enclosure 4400 illustrated in
In some embodiments, the extended portion can be comprise a substantially rounded and contoured shape, extending gradually outward from each end of the privacy/security enclosure 4400 to generally centrally positioned region extending along at least a partial length of the privacy/security enclosure 4400. In some embodiments as shown, the central region of the extended portion can be positioned substantially equidistant from each end of the privacy/security enclosure 4400. Further, in some embodiments as shown, the extended central portion can be comprise a substantially rounded and contoured shape, generally smoothly integrated with portions of the extended portion at each end of the privacy/security enclosure 4400, In some other embodiments, the extended portion can comprise other shapes than those illustrated. For example, in some embodiments, the extended portion can comprise substantially rounded and contoured portions, and/or angular, square, or rectangular portions.
In some embodiments of the invention, the base and lid portions 4410, 4415 of the privacy/security enclosure 4400 shown in
In some embodiments, the lid portion 4415 can be moved to a partially open position. For example,
In some further embodiments, the lid portion 4415 can be moved so that the lid portion 4415 is pivoted about the base portion 4410 and positioned at other angles with respect to the base portion 4410. For example, in some further embodiments, the lid portion 4415 can be moved to a partially open position so that the lid portion 4415 is pivoted about the base portion 4410 and positioned to about 90° with respect to the base portion 4410.
In some other embodiments, the lid portion 4415 can be moved further from the aforementioned partially open positions so that the lid portion 4415 is pivoted about the base portion 4410 and positioned to other angles with respect to the base portion 4410. For example, in some other embodiments, the lid portion 4415 can be moved further from the aforementioned partially open positions so that the lid portion 4415 is pivoted about the base portion 4410 and positioned to about 190° so that the privacy/security enclosure 4400 lid portion 4415 can rest against a supporting surface when substantially fully open and be stable (i.e., not tip) with respect to the base portion 4410. Further,
In some other embodiments, the lid portion 4415 can be moved to other positions from the aforementioned partially open positions so that the lid portion 4415 is pivoted about the base portion 4410 and positioned to other angles with respect to the base portion 4410. For example, in some embodiments, the lid portion 4415 can be moved by a user to open positions so that the lid portion 4415 is pivoted about the base portion 4410 and positioned to at angles between greater than about 0° and less than about 45° with respect to the base portion 4410. In some embodiments, the lid portion 4415 can be moved to open positions so that the lid portion 4415 is pivoted about the base portion 4410 and positioned to at angles between greater than about 45° and less than 90° with respect to the base portion 4410. In some embodiments, the lid portion 4415 can be moved to open positions so that the lid portion 4415 is pivoted about the base portion 4410 and positioned to at angles greater than about 90° and less than about 180° with respect to the base portion 4410. In some other embodiments, the lid portion 4415 can be moved to extended open positions so that the lid portion 4415 is pivoted about the base portion 4410 and positioned to at angles greater than about 180° and less than about 360° with respect to the base portion 4410.
In some embodiments, the base portion 4410 of the privacy/security enclosure 4400 shown in
In some embodiments, privacy can be enhanced by disabling or making less effective one or more of the following sensors or systems through the use of motors, magnets or known signal blocking or attenuating techniques: accelerometers, magnemometers, gyroscopes, Near Field Communication systems, humidity sensors, infrared or other light sensors, orientation sensors, pressure sensors, force sensors, proximity sensors, rotational or vector sensors, significant motion sensors, pedometers and any other sensors or systems.
Within the
Some further embodiments of the invention include privacy/security enclosures that allow RF pass through capabilities, where specific frequencies can be allowed to pass through the Faraday cage while maintaining protection against other frequencies (i.e. while maintaining privacy protection of the device). Some embodiments include privacy/security enclosures that allow an RF pathway to be closed to reinstate a RF protection via an RF/Antenna cut-off switch.
Some embodiments of the invention include privacy/security enclosures that include RF filtering and/or RF band selection. In some embodiments, RF bands that can pass through the enclosures are adjacent to other bands that can be blocked or attenuated. For example, band 40 and 41 of the cellular spectrum are adjacent to the bands that carry WiFi and Bluetooth (which overlap). In order to pass WiFi and Bluetooth while still providing protection against cellular bands, some embodiments include a series of filter that allow this to happen.
Some embodiments of the invention include a privacy/security enclosure that includes at least one external to internal interface and communication apparatus. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can enable passing certain types of information from inside to outside the Faraday cage without compromising its protection (i.e., information can be transmitted from the enclosed device while maintaining privacy protection of the device).
Some embodiments of the invention include privacy/security enclosures that enable DC power pass-through. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can enable charging of one or more batteries within the privacy/security enclosure. Further, some embodiments also enable charging of batteries of one or more enclosed devices. Moreover, in some embodiments, charging of one or more batteries in the privacy/security enclosure and one or more batteries of at least one enclosed device can occur substantially at the same time. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise one or more charging conductors or wires that pass through the Faraday cage of the privacy/security enclosure for purposes such as charging. Prior art designs would be akin to putting one or more antennas through the Faraday cage, but some embodiments of the invention allows charging to take place without materially degrading the enclosure's RF protection. Further, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise one or more charging conductors or wires that pass through the Faraday cage of the privacy/security enclosure for purposes such as charging that do not require a user to connect and disconnect separate leads on the inside and/or outside of the privacy/security enclosure.
Some embodiments of the invention include privacy/security enclosures that comprise one or more optical pass-through components, regions, or structures. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include one or more micro-controllers on both the inside and outside of the Faraday cage. In some embodiments, in order to allow the microcontrollers to communicate with each other without including additional holes for additional conductors/wires, holes can be included to allow communication via optical signaling without materially degrading the performance of the Faraday cage.
In some embodiments, power (e.g., for one or more LED's), data, or other information and/or electromagnet radiation can be passed through the Faraday cage while maintaining privacy protection for the enclosed device. Some embodiments of the invention can enable a head set pass-through. For example, in some embodiments, a user can plug a headset into the outside of the privacy/security enclosure (through the Faraday cage) to access a corresponding feature or port on the device enclosed inside the Faraday cage in the privacy/security enclosure while maintaining privacy protection of the enclosed device.
Some embodiments of the invention include at least one form of audio protection. Some embodiments of the invention include an open case audio protection″ (“OCAP”). For example, in some embodiments, audio protection can be enabled while the privacy/security enclosure is open. In this instance, a user can use at least a portion of the functionality of the device while maintaining audio protection. For example, where the enclosed device is a phone, the privacy/security enclosure can provide a user with at RF functionality (e.g., to check if calls are coming in and/or to receive and/or respond to text messages). The privacy/security enclosure can also provide a user with screen access (e.g. to send and/or receive emails, check calendars, notes, To Do's, play games, use apps etc.). Further, the privacy/security enclosure can provide a user with access to the use of a front and rear facing camera, and use of various buttons and device functions requiring physical access by the user.
Some embodiments of the invention include listen and respond capabilities. Some embodiments enable a user to use one or more microphones to listen to the environment and play one or more masking signals when sound is detected. Some embodiments include a privacy/security enclosure that comprises one or more microphones that are band limited to specific frequencies that are associated with voice. In this instance, the microphones have a lowered noise floor that is below the threshold of microphones in enclosed user devices (e.g. the enclosed, phone, computer, tablet etc.) For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise one mic in the middle of the low frequency of the common voice frequency band and another in the middle of the medium frequency voice band. In some embodiments, by being very deep (in terms of noise floor) in each of these areas, the presence of speech can be detected (while not capturing the voice content) while ensuring privacy/security enclosure protection is activated.
Some embodiments of the invention include speaker and/or speaker driver selection specifically for masking. Some embodiments include a privacy/security enclosure that can produce one or more specific waveforms to mask human speech. Moreover, some embodiments include speakers that can produce the masking signal with minimal power consumption.
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can change and/or delay a starting time for the masking signal. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure includes a control system that enables the system and/or the user to select and vary the amount of time between speech detection and masking signal activation.
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can change the masking signal tail time. For example, after speech ceases, the control system can stop the transmission of the masking signal substantially immediately. In some further embodiments, after speech ceases, the control system can include a transmission of the masking signal that comprises a tail (i.e. a transmission for a certain period of time after speech ceases). In some embodiments, this can minimize obtrusiveness as testing indicates that a constant start/stop is more obtrusive than continuous transmission. In some embodiments, tuning the tail can allow substantially continuous broadcast through the normal starts and stops and pauses that are a part of human conversation. Further, in some other embodiments, the volume of the masking signal can be varying. In some embodiments, the control system or the user can vary the volume of the masking signal based on the volume of the detected sound (e.g. such as a human voice).
In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can include an obfuscation and/or randomness setting. In some embodiments, for a variety of reasons, the privacy/security enclosure can prevent an unauthorized listener from detecting the presence of speech. In some embodiments, in the obfuscation and/or randomness mode, the privacy/security enclosure can randomly broadcast to simulate protection even if no one is speaking, thereby diminishing the ability of an unauthorized listener of detecting when there is actual speech by a user using the system.
Some embodiments of the invention include an always on mode. In this instance, the privacy/security enclosure includes active audio masking that is always on. In this mode, the privacy/security enclosure can maintain privacy protection substantially constantly.
Some embodiments of the invention include user signaling. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include one or more LED's or other forms of communication to indicate when the privacy/security enclosure is providing protection, which mode the privacy/security enclosure is in (always on, obfuscation and/or randomness mode setting, etc.), and/or can be configured to flash anytime the privacy/security enclosure is broadcasting.
Some embodiments of the invention include remote activation. In some embodiments of the invention, a privacy/security enclosure can include audio technologies that can be used independently of RF and other protection technologies. For example, some embodiments include the capability to remotely activate various modes of audio protection. For example, some embodiments can include a remote control that activates audio protection in the privacy/security enclosure that can attach to a smart TV or gaming console that can include built-in microphones. Other examples include cars and any other electronic device with a microphone. This can capture three concepts: 1) The audio protection can be used/applied independent of any other type of protection (RF, etc.); 2) The audio protection can be packaged to protect against any device that has microphone (car, TV, etc.) and 3) Any audio protection can be activated in one or more ways: a.) automatically by some sensing and/or control mechanism built into the product; b.) by physical user interaction/activation (some type of physical button or switch etc.) and c.) a remote activation capability that uses a non-physical interface (RF, infrared/light based, sound (perhaps voice or sound activated by saying a keyword, clapping or something similar.)
Some embodiments of the invention include a noise delivery system that takes the masking signal generated by one or more speakers within the privacy/security enclosure and delivers it to the various microphones that are being protected by the privacy/security enclosure. Some embodiments of the invention include a privacy/security enclosure that comprises a collection point. This is the point at which signals generated by the speakers are captured and are coupled to the delivery system. Some example embodiments include an open port near a privacy/security enclosure speaker or a shaped capture point that changes or impacts capture and delivered signals.
Some embodiments of the invention include a delivery system. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a system that channels a signal through at least a portion of the physical architecture of the privacy/security enclosure and delivers it proximate the microphones of the device against which are being protected. Some example embodiments can include tubes (e.g. similar to tubes used to deliver sound to the ear in a conventional hearing aid). Some example embodiments include channels or paths that are built into the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, depending on the location and proximity of the microphones being delivered a signal, the transmission of the speaker can be propagated to the microphone. In some embodiments, the length, diameter, shape, material and stiffness of the tubes and channels can vary and can impact the signal that is being delivered by the privacy/security enclosure.
Some embodiments of the invention can include one or more microphone attachment and/or sealing mechanisms. In some embodiments, a physical element of the privacy/security enclosure architecture can be placed against the surface of the device against microphones that are being protected. In some embodiments, this physical element can comprise a seal or gasket that minimizes the escape of our masking signal to the surrounding environment, and thereby can reduce the noise detected by people nearby. For example, in some embodiments, the tube delivering the sound can open to a hole which is greater than the location of the microphone so that when it is sealed and/or attached, a substantial majority of the signal can be delivered to the microphone rather than to the environment.
Some embodiments of the invention include an extensible design. In some embodiments, in order to facilitate reusing one design to be able to protect against multiple devices, embodiments of the invention include a privacy device that includes be the ability to slide or move the delivery point in order to accommodate devices with different microphone locations.
Some embodiments of the invention include an audio pass-through. In some embodiments, if a user receives a phone call that they want to take, they can be provided with the option to remove the sealed delivery element such that they can take the call (including if they want to do so on speakerphone, for a video call etc.) Some embodiments can improve audio clarity depending on the physical architecture of the privacy/security enclosure. Some embodiments include holes that are placed on the mechanism that holds the protected device in place. In this instance, if the holding mechanism overlaps with a microphone and/or speaker, audio pass-through applies in both directions, listening to the caller and passing through the audio content of the speaker. In some embodiments, the sealing can attenuate an external audio signal coming from outside the seal to the microphone as well as attenuate a masking signal going from inside the seal to outside (that can reduce obtrusiveness). In some embodiments, depending on the degree of external audio attenuation, the level of the masking signal can be lower on one microphone position versus another.
In some embodiments, using any of the previously mentioned protection technologies, other sensor protection can be provided by a privacy/security enclosure. Some embodiments can provide protection and/or degradation of the performance of all sensors contained within various electronic devices as disclosed herein.
Some embodiments of the invention include shock absorption features. These features help protect against falls, but also can act as a shock absorber that helps minimize vibrations caused by sound from reaching the IMU's within specific devices.
In some embodiments of the invention, RF gasketing can provide the secondary benefit of minimizing the transmission of air, water, dust and other such substances from passing into the interior of the case when it is closed. In some embodiments, other environmental gaskets can be added to that are more specifically designed for this purpose.
Some embodiments of the invention enable the user to select different levels or types of protection provided any given time. Some embodiments provide multiple selectable states, each of which provides different types or levels of protection.
For embodiments of the invention that include cases that can close, ramps or other features can be provided that prevent damage to interior portions of the case in the event the user is closing the case without having put at least one portion of the interior in the optimal state. In some embodiments of the invention that do not include a sock or lifting mechanism that allows the enclosed device to be elevated, kickstands can be built into or on top of the back of such products to provide similar functionality. Tacky or soft elements can be added to cases or housings to minimize slipping and sliding of products when they are on slippery surfaces.
Some embodiments of the invention allow users to use as much of their native device functionality as possible. Accordingly, some embodiments of the invention provide access to both front and rear facing cameras, side buttons, and other device controls.
Some embodiments of the invention do not use the previously described sock mechanisms. Accordingly, some embodiments utilize different ways of loading, unloading and holding protected devices within the case. Some embodiments include different ways to interface with various ports and plugs on the phone (i.e. power, headset etc.) In some embodiments, access is not provided to some or all of these capabilities while the device is within the case (even if the case is closed to provide RF protection).
Some embodiments of the invention include passive RF protection and passive audio protection. Some of these embodiments include a microphone blocker and a corresponding release function. In some embodiments, when a user takes a sock out of down mode (wherein passive audio protection is provided while the case is open) and the phone is sprung up to an angled position within the case, ready for use, a lift mechanism lifts the phone from the audio sealing material inside the bottom of the sock. These embodiments allow speakerphone and video calls to be made without muffling the clarity of the speaker at the other end of the call as well as the clarity of the speaker using the case. Some of these embodiments use foam (or springs or other such mechanisms) that lift the phone when the phone is not in the compressed or “down” mode. Some embodiments include holes drilled or otherwise formed into the bottom of the sock (or include a grill or some other such pass through method) that allow sound to pass through more easily.
Some embodiments of the invention include passive RF protection and active audio protection. Some of these embodiments of the invention can include shapes that are dissimilar from a bathtub type of design. These alternative embodiments can leverage knife edge labyrinth and gasket designs etc. in order to provide a compact and effective device.
Some embodiments of the invention include different Faraday cage designs. While some embodiments include one piece cases with a book-type of hinge, other embodiments use vertical hinges, two-piece or multi-piece products with removable pieces that both do and do not attach to the pieces that were not removed from the protected or enclosed device.
Some embodiments of the invention include a user interface comprising controls and status indicators. The user interface can display different modes and status using LED's or other visual or audio features. Embodiments of the invention that use active audio masking technology can include a user interface which users to turn the device on/off and/or activate different modes, provide battery and other status, etc.
Further embodiments of privacy/security enclosures including components, assemblies, and methods of use are shown in
Further gasket configurations can be seen in
Referring to
Some embodiments include pivoting and/or articulating privacy/security enclosures that can enable functional and elegant options for a user to insert or remove a device (e.g., such as user device 10). For example,
Referring to
Some embodiments of the invention include a charging interface comprising at least one microcontroller that can determine the power that can be drawn by a power source into which the interface is plugged. Some embodiments of the charging interface include logic regarding the sequence and priority of charging masking technology as well as an enclosed device and any other desired accessories.
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a rigid, structurally self-supporting chamber that can be opened and closed by a user. Further, the chamber can be formed of a material which attenuates RF radiation emitted to or from any RF antennas or transceivers positioned inside the privacy/security enclosure.
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise one or more separable and/or moveable portions. For example, some embodiments include a privacy/security enclosure comprising a lower portion (i.e. a base portion) and an upper portion (i.e., a lid portion). In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a Faraday cage configured to attenuate, or at least partially block, reception or transmission of RF radiation. In some embodiments, the Faraday cage includes and/or is formed by the one or more RF gaskets. In some embodiments of the invention, the RF gasket can attenuate (i.e. reduce in signal strength) an RF signal. In some embodiments, the RF gasket can attenuate a portion of an RF signal while still disrupting effective communication. In some embodiments, the RF gasket can attenuate or at least partially block RF radiation from entering or exiting a privacy/security enclosure to which it is coupled. In some embodiments, this can provide bandwidth selectable pass-through capabilities.
In some embodiments, at least a portion of the RF gasket can be formed of a material which at least partially attenuates RF radiation emitted from one or more mobile or stationary communication devices. In some embodiments, the RF gasket can be formed of a material including at least a portion that substantially attenuates RF. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the RF gasket can at least partially attenuate RF radiation emitted from outside of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the RF gasket can at least partially attenuate RF radiation emitted from within the privacy/security enclosure.
Referring to
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include one or more RF gaskets extending around at least a portion of an interface 12922 between the upper portion 12910 and base portion 12920 of the privacy/security enclosure (e.g., such as the privacy/security enclosure 12900 or any other privacy/security enclosure disclosed herein). In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include one or more RF gaskets that can extend completely around a region of the upper and/or lower portion of the privacy/security enclosure (e.g., such as the interface 12922 between the upper portion 12910 and base portion 12920).
In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure 12900 can include a conventional or custom fingerstock assembly. Referring to
In some embodiments, the fingers 13225 can be integrally formed with the base portion 12920 as shown. As discussed further below, in some other embodiments, the C-shaped curved fingers 13225 can comprise separate C-shaped curved extensions or tabs. In some embodiments, these can be coupled or mounted directly to a portion of the privacy/security enclosure 12900. In other embodiments, the fingers 13225 can be coupled or mounted to a support and coupled to at least one portion of the privacy/security enclosure 12900. For example, in some embodiments, the fingers 13225 can be coupled or mounted to an inner gasket. Further, in some embodiments, the shape of the extensions or tabs can be varied to accommodate different portions of the privacy/security enclosure 12900, and/or to provide different levels of RF attenuation and/or different levels of seal between portions of the privacy/security enclosure.
In some embodiments, more than one RF gasket can be used within a privacy/security enclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include two RF gaskets positioned at an interface between an upper and lower portion of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, the RF gaskets can be positioned adjacent each other within an inner wall of a lid receiving end of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, one RF gasket can be positioned coupled to the inner wall of the lid receiving end of the privacy/security enclosure adjacent the top surface of the base, and a second RF gasket can be positioned coupled to the inner wall of the lid receiving end of the privacy/security enclosure proximate the first RF gasket and adjacent the lid receiving wall of the base gasket.
In other embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can include three or more fingerstocks and/or a plurality of base gaskets. For example,
In some embodiments, any of the previously mentioned RF gaskets can be capable of forming a compliant privacy seal between portions of the privacy/security enclosure (e.g., between an upper and a lower portion and/or between two halves of any of the privacy/security enclosures described herein). Further, in some embodiments, the formed seal can be capable of functioning as an environmental barrier in addition to functioning as an RF shield. In some embodiments of the invention, RF gasketing can provide the secondary benefit of minimizing the transmission of air, water, dust and other such substances from passing into the interior of the privacy/security enclosure when the enclosure is closed.
In some embodiments, other or additional environmental or sealing gaskets can be included that are more specifically designed for this purpose. The environmental or sealing gaskets can be used with one or more RF gaskets as required. For example, as shown in at least
In some embodiments, the gasket 13175 can be positioned to accommodate and couple with at least a portion of a base end of an upper portion such as a lid. For example, in some embodiments, as the upper portion 12910 is coupled with the base portion 12920, the base end of the upper portion 12910 (show as section 12915) can slide onto or over a portion of the base portion 12920 (shown as 12950a in
Other combinations of RF gaskets comprising single and/or multiple fingerstock 13400 and gaskets 13175 can be used. For example,
In some embodiments of the invention, a combination of one or more grooves formed within one or more surfaces of one or more portions of the privacy/security enclosure (such as privacy/security enclosure 12900) can be used with one or more RF gaskets (e.g., such as fingerstock 13400 and gasket 13175) to provide various levels of coupling, seating, and/or sealing of the privacy/security enclosure. For example, in some embodiments, at least some portion of an upper and/or base portion of a privacy/security enclosure can comprise at least one form, cavity, or depression (i.e. forming a groove) for coupling to at least one or more RF gaskets. In some embodiments, at least one form, cavity, or depression can be formed during any of the aforementioned manufacturing processes. For example,
In some embodiments, one or more fingerstocks can be used together within one or more inner gaskets to form an RF gasket or seal. Some embodiments of the invention can comprise an RF gasket assembly comprising at least two components. For example, some embodiments include an assembly of components comprising at least one fingerstock coupled to at least one gasket. For example,
In some embodiments, the compound gasket assembly 13700 can comprise a fingerstock 13701 comprising a series of generally C-shaped curved fingers 13710 extending from a base or mounting surface 13705. In some embodiments, the fingers 13710 can be integrally formed with the mounting surface 13705. In some other embodiments, the C-shaped curved extensions or tabs can comprise separate fingers 13710 that can be coupled to or mounted onto or over an inner gasket 13720. Further, in some embodiments, the shape and/or the spacing of each of the fingers 13710 can be varied to accommodate different portions of a privacy/security enclosure, and/or to provide different levels of RF attenuation and/or different levels of sealing between portions of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, the fingerstock 13701 can provide mechanical or physical support to the inner gasket 13720. In some further embodiments, the fingerstock 13701 can provide degradation or wear protection to the inner gasket 13720. For example, in some embodiments, when used to provide one or more RF and/or environmental seals between surfaces and/or portions of a privacy/security enclosure, the use of a fingerstock 13701 at least partially enveloping the inner gasket 13720 can prevent wear and extend the life of the inner gasket 13720.
In some embodiments, a privacy/security enclosure can be sealed without a base gasket. For example,
In some embodiments, one or more fingerstocks can be used together within one or more inner gaskets to form an RF gasket or seal. For example,
As described earlier with respect to the example embodiments of
In some embodiments, at least a portion of any of the RF gaskets described herein can comprise a metal or a metal alloy. In some embodiments, at least a portion of any of the RF gaskets described herein can comprise copper or a copper alloy. In some other embodiments, at least a portion of any of the RF gaskets described herein can comprise iron or steel. In some embodiments, at least a portion of any of the RF gaskets described herein can comprise nickel or a nickel alloy (e.g., a nickel-copper alloy), or an alloy of copper and tin. In some embodiments, at least a portion of any of the RF gaskets described herein can comprise aluminum, magnesium, or mixtures or alloys thereof.
In some embodiments, at least a portion of any of the RF gaskets described herein can comprise a polymer. For example, in some embodiments, at least a portion of any of the RF gaskets described herein can comprise one or more homopolymers, one or more copolymers, or mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the polymer matrix can comprise an elastomeric polymer such as rubber or silicone. In some embodiments, the polymer can comprise a solid rubber or silicone. Other embodiments can include a polymer comprising a sponge rubber or silicone. In some embodiments, the polymer can comprise a butyl rubber, silicone rubber, a fluorosilicone, chloroprene rubber, nitrile rubber, or combinations thereof.
In some embodiments, at least a portion of any of the RF gaskets described herein can comprise an elastomer that is cut or machined to size. In some other embodiments, at least a portion of the RF gasket can comprise an elastomer that is molded (injection molding or thermoforming, transfer molding, insert molding) and/or cured to a specified shape. In some other embodiments, the RF gasket can be formed by other conventional manufacturing processes such as extrusion, die-cutting, laser cutting, or printed using a three dimensional printer, etc.
In some embodiments, at least a portion of any of the RF gaskets described herein can comprise a polymer-based matrix material including a dispersed secondary material. For example, some embodiments include an RF gasket comprising one or more polymers infused with conductive elements, conductive compounds, and/or conductive mixtures. Further, in some embodiments, at least a portion of any of the RF gaskets described herein can comprise a polymer-based matrix material including metal filaments dispersed in a matrix to form a polymer composite material. In some other embodiments, at least a portion of any of the RF gaskets described herein can comprise a carbon fiber-filled matrix material including metal filaments dispersed in a matrix to form a carbon fiber composite material. In some embodiments, the polymer can include one or more homopolymers, one or more copolymers, or mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the polymer matrix can comprise a butyl rubber, silicone rubber, a fluorosilicone, chloroprene rubber, nitrile rubber, or combinations thereof, and the secondary phase can include at least one dispersed conductor. In some embodiments, the conductor can comprise a metal or a carbon-based conductor. In some embodiments, the metal can comprise copper, iron, aluminum, silver, nickel, copper-silver alloy, or combinations thereof.
In some other embodiments, materials useful in one or more embodiments of the invention include a layer of material comprising a carbon fiber-based matrix material including metal filaments dispersed in a matrix to form a carbon fiber composite material. In some embodiments, the carbon fiber matrix can comprise at least one homopolymer and/or copolymer, and can include at least one ceramic, and/or at least one polymer-ceramic mixture. In some embodiments, the metal filaments can comprise nickel filaments. In some further embodiments, the metal filaments can include copper filaments, brass filaments, stainless steel filaments or combinations thereof.
In some embodiments, when used in combination with one or more RF shield layers (coated, embedded, or attached to any portion of the privacy/security enclosure) the combination of the privacy seal formed by the one or more RF gaskets described here and/or one or more additional RF shield layers can form a Faraday cage. In some embodiments, the Faraday cage can substantially attenuate or at least partially block RF transmission into and/or out of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, the Faraday cage attenuates RF transmission to a level of at least 120 dB.
In some embodiments, more than one type of RF gasket can be used. In some embodiments, any of the RF gaskets described herein can be optimized for a specific function (either to at least partially block or attenuate RF, and/or at least partially block or attenuate sound, and/or at least partially block or attenuate light, and/or at least partially block or attenuate moisture, etc.) However, any one RF gasket can function to attenuate or at least partially block a combination of RF, sound, light, etc. For example, in some embodiments, one or more RF gaskets can function to attenuate RF, and one or more additional RF gaskets can function to attenuate sound, and one or more further RF gaskets can function as an environmental barrier. Moreover, in some embodiments, one or more of the RF gaskets are larger or smaller than one or more other RF gaskets.
In some embodiments, any of the fingerstock described herein (including any fingerstocks forming any of the compound gasket assemblies described herein) can comprise a pitch of about 0.06 inches and a slot diameter of about 0.02 inches. Further, the base height (“B”) can be about 0.09 inches. The number of fingers can be 200, although this number can be increased or decreased based on the architecture of the privacy/security enclosure. In some further embodiments, any of the gaskets described herein can include an outer diameter (“A”) of about 0.06 inches or 0.062 inches, and an inner diameter (“B”) of about 0.02 to about 0.035 inches. Further, in some other embodiments, the outer diameter (“A”) of the gasket can be about 0.09 inches, with an inner diameter (“B”) of about 0.06 inches. In some embodiments, the inner and outer diameters can be greater or less than as described above.
In some embodiments, any of the fingerstocks described herein can comprise fingerstocks supplied by Parker Chometrics, Woburn, Mass. (http://www.chomerics.com/contact/index.html). Some embodiments include fingerstocks with part numbers 81-C14-XXX-YDZZZZ and/or 81-C15-XXXX-YDZZZZ. In some further embodiments, any of the fingerstocks described herein can comprise one or more stacked or coupled fingerstocks. In some embodiments, the fingerstock can be represented as two stacked fingerstocks comprising fingerstocks with part numbers 81-C07-XXXX-YDZZZZ available from Parker Chometrics mentioned above. In some embodiments, the contact areas of any of the fingers of the fingerstocks described herein can be used to couple with one or more portions of the upper and/or base portions of any of the privacy/security enclosures described herein.
In some embodiments, the fingers of any of the fingerstocks described herein can be integrally formed with the base or mounting surface, and the fingers and mounting surfaces can be coupled or mounted directly to any portion of any interface or sealing surfaces within any of the privacy/security enclosures described herein.
In some embodiments, the fingerstock can be formed by etching a metal substrate and forming the extensions or tabs, and/or any portion of the mounting base of the fingerstock. For example,
In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a case formed from at least one housing assembly. In some embodiments, the housing assembly can comprise a single monolithic element or can be formed from a plurality of sub-assemblies and/or components. In some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of sub-assemblies and/or components can be movable with respect to another portion, assembly, or sub-assembly of the housing assembly. In some embodiments, the housing assembly can include an enclosure for a user device. In some embodiments, the enclosure can couple directly to a user device such as a smart phone. In some further embodiments, at least one of the plurality of sub-assemblies and/or components can be rotatable, and/or or pivotable with respect to another portion, assembly, or sub-assembly of the housing assembly
Referring to at least
Referring to at least
Referring to at least
Referring to at least
In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can include a housing assembly that can comprise at least one splined surface. For example, in some embodiments, any of the privacy/security enclosures 16100, 16200, 16300, 16400, 16500, 16600 can comprise two or more splined surfaces or faces can be coupled to at least one other surface and/or splined surface or face. In some embodiments, the at least one splined surface can comprise a hard or substantially abrupt edge surface (providing a splined-off appearance or look). In some other embodiments, the at least one splined surface can comprise a soft or substantially curved or rounded edge surface. In some embodiments, the two or more splined surfaces can form a portion of the housing assembly, providing a splined appearance.
Referring to at least
In some embodiments of the invention, the housing assembly of a privacy/security enclosure can comprise at least one moveable, slidable, and/or latching portion that can engage or disengage with at least a portion of the housing assembly and/or a user device when placed within the privacy/security enclosure. For example, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the housing assembly can comprise a section, portion and/or component that can be moved, slid, rotated, pivoted, latched, or unlatched from or with respect to other portions of the privacy/security enclosure. Further, in some embodiments of the invention, the at least one moveable, slidable, and/or latching portion can engage or disengage with at least a portion of the housing assembly to enable insertion or removal of a user device such as a smart phone, tablet, computer or other such device with one or more microphones and/or camera(s) and/or RF transceiver(s) and/or other sensor(s). In some embodiments, the at least one moveable, slidable, and/or latching portion can be positioned proximate or adjacent one end of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, the housing assembly can comprise at least two moveable, slidable, and/or latching portions. In some embodiments, the at least two moveable, slidable, and/or latching portions can be positioned proximate each end of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, the housing assembly can comprise at least one moveable, slidable, and/or latching portion that can engage or disengage with at least a portion of the housing assembly and/or a user device when placed within the privacy/security enclosure that covers one side of the user device only.
Referring to at least
As described earlier, some embodiments of the invention include a privacy/security enclosure that can comprise a housing assembly including at least one moveable, slidable, and/or latching portion or section. Further, in some embodiments of the invention, a privacy/security enclosure can comprise a housing assembly including at least one moveable, slidable, and/or latching portion with at least one user interface and/or an indicator (within either the movable or static portions of the privacy/security enclosure). In some embodiments, the at least one moveable, slidable, and/or latching portion can be positioned at one end of the privacy/security enclosure, and the at least one user interface and/or an indicator can be positioned adjacent or proximate the other end of the privacy/security enclosure. Further, in some embodiments, the at least one moveable, slidable, and/or latching portion can engage or disengage with at least a portion of the housing assembly and/or a user device when placed within ore removed from the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, an action such as movement of the at least one moveable, slidable, and/or latching portion can substantially coincide with and/or cause an action or operation of the user interface and/or an indicator. For example, in some embodiments, when the at least one moveable, slidable, and/or latching portion is moved (e.g., to prepare for insertion or removal of a user device), at least a portion of the user interface and/or the indicator providing an indication (e.g., such as lighting or illumination or the user interface) can change state (e.g., such as light or illuminate and/or display colors, text, or graphics). In some embodiments, at least a portion of the user interface and/or the indicator can provide an indication when opening. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the user interface and/or the indicator can provide an indication when closing.
For example, further referring to
In some embodiments of the invention, a user interface of any of the privacy/security enclosures described herein can include at least one user-accessible function. For example, in some embodiments, a user action of the at least one user-accessible function of the user interface can change a status or actuate a function of the privacy/security enclosure, change a status or actuate a function of the user interface, and/or change a status or actuate a function of at least one user device covered, held or cradled with the privacy/security enclosure. For example, in some embodiments of the invention, the user interface can comprise at least one button capable of enabling a user to power-on or power-off the privacy/security enclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the user can press and hold the button for a specified period of time to power-on the privacy/security enclosure. As an example embodiment, the user can press and hold the button for a short period of time to control the power of the privacy/security enclosure.
In some embodiments, an action by the user of one or more functions of any of the privacy/security enclosures described here through the user interface can change a display or illumination status of the user interface of the privacy/security enclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the action of powering on or off of the privacy/security enclosure by the user using the user interface can be accompanied by a change of display or illumination of the user interface. Some embodiments of the invention include a user interface that comprises an LED that can change illumination status based on the user's interaction with the user interface. For example, in some embodiments, upon turning on the privacy/security enclosure, an LED lamp can illuminate. In some embodiments, the LED can be placed behind a lens. Further, in some embodiments, other user actions such as pressing the button for a short period can change the indicator response. Further, in some embodiments, the user can use the button to power-down the privacy/security enclosure (e.g., by pressing the button for a specified, short (up to several seconds) period of time. In some embodiments, the user interface can comprise an audible interface. For example, in some embodiments, the user interface, or other coupled portion of the privacy/security enclosure can emit one or more sounds based at least in part on a change in status of the privacy/security enclosure, a user initiated action (such as any of the user actions previously described), and/or a change in status or function of at least one user device that is at least partially enclosed by or otherwise coupled to the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, the user interface can comprise capacitive or toggle-style buttons.
In some embodiments, the indicating status of the user interface can be based at least in part on a status or position of at least one moveable portion of the privacy/security enclosure. For example, referring specifically to
Further examples of privacy/security enclosures including one or more of the above described functions including user interfaces (e.g., such as a beacon) and other functions and alerts of an operational status or state are shown in
Referring to one or more of the privacy/security enclosures 17200, 17400, 17600, 17600, 17900, 18200, and 18500 described above, in some embodiments, when the at least one moveable portion of the privacy/security enclosure (e.g., such as a hood) is moved by a user (e.g., from a closed position to an open or partially open position), the indicating status of the user interface of the hood of the privacy/security enclosure or other portion of the privacy/security enclosure, or both can provide an indicating status. In some other embodiments of the invention, at least some portion of the interior region of the privacy/security enclosure can illuminate and/or can be illuminated upon an action or change of status of the privacy/security enclosure. For example, in some embodiments, when the hood is raised, the interior region of the privacy/security enclosure can illuminate and/or can be illuminated. In some embodiments, the illumination of the interior can be indicative of the unprotected status of any user device within the privacy/security enclosure.
In some other embodiments of the invention, movement of the hood can change a status of the privacy/security enclosure. For example, in some embodiments, when the hood is raised (i.e., when the privacy/security enclosure is opened) the privacy/security enclosure can move to a power off state. In some embodiments, a user can access a button on the user interface of the privacy/security enclosure to power-on the privacy/security enclosure (e.g., by pressing a button on the user interface for a specified, short period of time such as a period between about 0.5 to about 3 seconds).
In some embodiments of the invention, a user can access a battery status using the user interface. For example, in some embodiments of the invention, a user can access a “poll” button on the user interface to ascertain the charge status of the battery of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can display a battery status at pre-determined intervals. Further, in some embodiments, when the battery is being charged, successive LED indicators can illuminate based on the charge status of the battery.
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise at least one icon display. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise at least one user interface configured as an icon display and/or configured to display at least one icon. Referring to
Further, referring to
Further details of the structure, assembly, and operating functions of the privacy/security enclosure are described related to
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure 19100 and/or any privacy/security enclosure disclosed herein can prevent or reduce the ability of an authorized or unauthorized listener from using the microphone or other sensors, from detecting the presence of speech, or, if the presence of speech can be detected, reducing or eliminating the intelligibility of such speech. In some embodiments, when set to a obfuscation and/or randomness mode, the privacy/security enclosure can randomly broadcast to provide protection even if no one is speaking, thereby diminishing the ability of an authorized or unauthorized listener of detecting when there is actual speech by a user using the system.
In some embodiments, for the device(s) protected by the privacy/security enclosure, including at least one of the privacy/security enclosures disclosure here, lowering a hood or hood equivalent portion or other mechanism, the hood can seal one to all of the microphones (e.g. front, rear, bottom etc.) device(s), and can cover one to all of the cameras (e.g, front, rear etc.), and engage masking sound(s) to be received by the sensor(s) of the protected device(s). In some embodiments, the sealing/unsealing, covering/uncovering and/or activation/deactivation for any up to all of the sensors of the protected device(s) can occur with a single movement or action of the hood or other desired structure (e.g. raising or lowering) or other portion of the privacy/security enclosure, while in others it can require one or more movements and/or actions. In some embodiments, the movement/action described can be manually actuated, while in others the movement/action can be partially or fully electro-mechanically actuated.
In some embodiments, the ability to protect against different types of sensors in different physical locations on the protected device(s) in one or more motions/action can be accomplished by physical or electrical linkages between the portions of the enclosure providing the protection against each and/or every sensor. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure will include sensors to determine if and where any protected devices reside within the enclosure and to determine the state (e.g. raised or lowered) of specific protective assemblies, thereby allowing coordination of protection.
In some embodiments of the invention, the mechanisms that provide protection to a user's device, including protections against audio, video, RF transmit/receive capability and/or other sensors (i.e. gyroscope, accelerometers and/or any other sensor that is part of the enclosed device(s) etc.) can be integrated into the core structure of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, such mechanisms can be activated or deactivated with a conventional slide, button, switch and/or other such physical and/or electro-mechanical feature. In some embodiments, the feature can activate/deactivate the protection for one or more microphones, cameras, RF antennas or RF transmit/receive functionality for the enclosed device(s) in a single actuation, action, motion, and/or interaction. In other embodiments of the invention, such a feature can require two or more actuations, action, motion, and/or interactions (i.e. button press, switch slide, etc.). In some embodiments, the two or more actuations, actions, motions, and/or interactions can comprise two or more individual sequential or parallel single actuations, actions, motions, and/or interactions.
In some embodiments of the invention, with the hood down, all or most of the enclosed device(s) functions that do not include secured sensors can be available. In some further embodiments, with the hood raised, all or most of the enclosed device(s) functions can be available. In some embodiments, a button can be used to the masking audio sound turn on and off. In some embodiments, one LED can indicate a masking sound, and another can indicate a battery status, while yet another could indicate other functions such as maintenance requirements and/or feature indications/activations. In other embodiments, the indications/status of the previously mentioned functions could be combined into one or more LEDs. In some embodiments, the case and enclosed device(s) are charged through a micro-USB or other such charging port.
In some embodiments, any of the privacy/security enclosures described herein can include the circuit layout shown in
As described earlier and illustrated in
For example, the privacy/security enclosure 19300 can include a chassis 19310 with an upper portion 19312, base 19320, a hood 19350, and an attached outer housing or case 19315. In some embodiments, operation of the privacy/security enclosure 19300, movement of the hood 19350, opening of the case 19315 (e.g., such as that defined by any of the symbols 19311) can define a state 19311, and include a status of the case 19315 (status 19314), phone acoustics (19316), masking status (19318), and user device presence (19319). In some embodiments, the operational parameters can be defined as 19370, 19375, 19380, 19385, or 19390 as shown. For example, in some embodiments, a state 19312 comprising “closed off” can be representative of a closed privacy/security enclosure, sealed acoustics, and masking off (19370). In this instance, the privacy/security enclosure 19300 can comprise a microphone sealed indicating symbol turned on.
In some embodiments, a “closed on” state 19312 can comprise a case closed, phone acoustics sealed, and masking fully on (shown as 19375). In this instance, the privacy/security enclosure 19300 can comprise two indicating symbols turned on including a microphones sealed indicator and a masking playing indicator. In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise an open free state 19312 comprising an open case, unsealed phone acoustics, and masking off (shown as 19380). In this instance, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise no indicating symbols turned on indicating masking silent and microphones unsealed. In some further embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise an open off state 19312, comprising a case open, phone acoustic sealed, and masking off (shown as 19385). In this instance, the privacy/security enclosure 19300 can comprise an indicating symbol turned on comprising a microphones sealed indicator. In some other embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise an open on state 19312, comprising a case open, phone acoustic sealed, and masking full on (shown as 19390). In this instance, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise two indicating symbols turned on including a microphones sealed indicator and a masking playing indicator.
Further internal structures, components and assembly can be seen in
In some embodiments of the invention, any RF gasket or seal (shown as 19610) of the privacy/security enclosure (e.g., forming the Faraday cage) can include a conventional or custom fingerstock or any fingerstock or component gasket assembly described earlier. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the fingerstock can comprise a metal or a metal alloy. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the fingerstock can comprise copper or a copper alloy. In some other embodiments, at least a portion of the fingerstock can comprise iron or steel. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the fingerstock can comprise nickel or a nickel alloy (e.g., a nickel-copper alloy), or an alloy of copper and tin. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the fingerstock can comprise aluminum, magnesium, or mixtures or alloys thereof. In some embodiments, the fingerstock can comprise beryllium copper (“BeCu”) that can electrically couple the cover to the base, and when closing the case. In some embodiments, the fingerstock can comprise a base metal (e.g., such as nickel) with varying thicknesses of plated metals, including, but not limited to gold, palladium nickel, and titanium blend plating options. Some embodiments of the invention can include one or multiple rows of fingerstock brazed soldered, welded, bonded with conductive adhesive, or otherwise conductively bonded into the cover assembly. In some embodiments, in each row of fingerstocks, a hollow or solid circular profile of extruded conductive elastomer can be used. In some embodiments, the bearing surface on the base can be nickel-plated for conductivity and surface hardness.
Some embodiments include openings in the RF cage that do not materially compromise RF attenuation performance. Some embodiments include a DC pass-through assembly 19770 that allows DC power to pass between boards on either side of the cage. In some embodiments, one or more holes or windowed ports can allow light to pass to enable optical communication between boards (such as the main board and the interface board). Some embodiments include a RF pass-through for one or more frequency bands, while continuing to attenuate other frequency bands. In some embodiments, base assembly 19620 and/or Faraday assembly 19630 can include an RF pass-through switch, which allows physical interaction/linking between inner and outer portions of the Faraday cage or privacy/security enclosure, without materially degrading RF protection/attenuation.
In some embodiments, the cap 19749, the cover body 19750, the inner and outer bezels (19752, 19754), and the inner and outer fingerstocks (19756, 19757) shown as 19764 can be coupled together (e.g., using welding, brazing, or other conventional joining methods). Further, some embodiments also include a Faraday rim 19762 and Faraday pan 19766. In some embodiments, the Faraday rim 19762 and Faraday pan 19766 can be coupled together (e.g., using welding, brazing, or other conventional joining method). In some embodiments, the Faraday rim 19762 and Faraday pan 19766 can comprise aluminum. In some embodiments, the Faraday rim 19762 can comprise machined aluminum, and the Faraday pan 19766 can comprise deep drawn aluminum. In some embodiments, the DC pass-through assembly 19770 can comprise brass, aluminum, magnesium or a blended metal alloy assembly. Further, some embodiments include optical communication holes or ports 19621. In some embodiments, the DC pass-through assembly 19770 can be coupled to the base 19620 (shown as 19727) by soldering.
As described earlier, in some embodiments, acoustic security/protection can be achieved through audio masking. The audio masking noise can be emitted from the privacy/security enclosure proximate or adjacent the expected location of a microphone of an enclosed device, and/or in the general vicinity of the device. In some embodiments, assemblies for masking noise can include one or more assemblies configured to emit noise for pickup up by front, rear, and/or bottom or any other microphones of an enclosed/protected device. For example,
In some embodiments, the hood assembly 19812 can comprise a hood housing 19814 including a left and right hood shroud. In some embodiments, the hood assembly 19812 can include a hood clamp that can be used to seal and unseal to the front and back microphones. Consequently, when the hood assembly 19812 or other such mechanism is raised and lowered, the rubbing/sliding/interaction of the sealing surface against the mating surface on/of the protected device(s) can be minimized or reduced thereby enabling a higher cycle count of hood assembly 19812 raises/lowers, reducing or mitigating wear of the gasket/seals). In some embodiments, when the hood assembly 19812 is lowered, tension or compression forces can cause the hood assembly to spring away from the surface of the enclosed device (similar to a binder clip in reverse) and as the hood assembly 19812 is raised, the seals lift. In some embodiments, when the hood assembly 19812 is lowered, ramps can compress the hood clip and force the seals against the microphone with the correct amount of compression to deliver the designed audio protection.
Some embodiments include a different mechanism for the bottom or other microphone(s), the sealing/unsealing of which can be coordinated with the single motion of raising and lowering the hood, where the two or more mechanisms are coupled so that they function together. In some embodiments, the seal to the bottom or other microphone(s) can include mechanisms that reduce the rubbing/sliding/physical interaction between the sealing path and the mating surface when the mechanism is engaged/disengaged, reducing wear and increasing cycle life for such mechanisms.
Some further embodiments include the design of sealing paths to various sensors on the protected device in order to enhance or improve the effectiveness, efficiency and/or usability of protection. In some embodiments, the sealed or partially sealed path/channel from sound generators (e.g. speakers or drivers) can increase the amount of acoustical energy reaching the microphone(s) of the protected devices, reducing power requirements and/or allowing the use of smaller and/or less powerful drivers/speakers when compared to the acoustical power that would be required to deliver an equivalent level of protection in an open or non-sealed/non partially sealed environment. In some embodiments, the sealed or partially sealed path/channel from sound generators (e.g. speakers or drivers) reduces and/or attenuates the amount of masking signal(s) reaching outside of the path/channel, thereby reducing the detectability and/or obtrusiveness of such signal to the outside environment. In some embodiments, the sealed or partially sealed path/channel from sound generators (e.g. speakers or drivers) reduces and/or attenuates outside signals/sounds/audio content from reaching the protected device(s)′ microphone(s) and/or sensors, providing some level of protection and/or reducing the level of masking signal(s) required to deliver an equivalent level of protection when compared to an open or non-sealed/non partially sealed environment.
In some embodiments of the invention, the source and/or seed for random and/or other audio, actuator or other such masking signal(s) can be electrical components (such as a diode and/or the thermal noise of a resistor). In some embodiments of the invention, such seed/source can be amplified in order to reach a desired level of protection. In some embodiments of the invention, the seed, amplified and/or unamplified, can be filtered and/or sculpted to a more desired noise profile for the audio or other such masking signal (e.g. blue, pink, gray, white and/or other such profile) which can provide desired characteristics for one or more specific purposes, including, but not limited to lower power consumption and/or more effective masking for a similar/related level of protection against certain types of audio information (e.g. human speech and/or other types of audio information) when compared to other profiles. In some embodiments of the invention, less obtrusive and/or noticeable noise profiles can be created by lowering the frequency components/content above certain frequency levels (e.g. varying and/or different frequency levels typically ranging anywhere from between 300 Hz to 3 kHz) when compared to noise profiles that haven't been filtered/sculpted and/or modified for such purposes. In some embodiments of the invention, the seed can be used as the seed for encryption key(s) and/or for generating the encryption key(s) for voice, data, video and/or other types of encryption implemented and/or supported by the privacy/security enclosure itself and/or by the hardware and/or software of device(s) protected by the privacy/security enclosure.
In some embodiments of the invention, a single and/or multiple audio masking signals (random, pseudo-random, deterministic or other) can be used as the source for protection against one or more microphones and/or other sensors. In some embodiments of the invention, separate and/or distinct audio masking signals (random, pseudo-random, deterministic and/or other) can be used as the source for protection against one or more microphones and/or other sensors, including some embodiments where separate, dedicated audio masking signals can exist for each microphone of any device(s) protected by the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments of the invention, separate and/or distinct random audio masking signals can be used for each microphone on a device(s) protected by the privacy/security enclosure, reducing the likelihood and/or ability of an authorized and/or unauthorized listener subtracting and/or otherwise using one signal against another in order to extract and/or process and/or otherwise attempt to recover protected audio content. In some embodiments of the invention, the audio masking signal can be a combination of different types of filtered or sculpted noise profiles and/or can be a result of cycling through a variety of different noise signals.
In some embodiments of the invention, the thermal noise of a resistor can be amplified as the seed of a random acoustic noise source. In other embodiments, other electrical components such as diodes could also serve as the base generator. In some embodiments, the naturally broad noise can be filtered or sculpted to a custom “Pink” profile closely matching the spectral content of human voice. For example,
In some further embodiments, an independent noise generation circuit can be used for each microphone on an enclosed device(s). If only one source was used for multiple microphones, it could be possible to record the noise on a microphone that was less open to the voice signal (or via some other means of recording), and use that noise to cancel the noise detected by another microphone, increasing the likelihood of recovery of protected audio content.
Some embodiments can include speaker(s)/driver(s) with no or reduced rear port(s) or opening(s). In some embodiments, since rear ports are common in speakers/drivers to help tune the fidelity of the speaker/driver, but thus provide a path for external sound to modulate the speaker/driver cone which in turn can couple to the protected microphone(s), serving to reduce masking effectiveness, the privacy/security enclosure can use speakers/drivers with no ports and/or can close, block, seal, reduce, or otherwise obstruct ports in drivers/speakers that have them.
Some further embodiments include one or more apertures (e.g., holes or slots) in the base portion of the case to allow more sound to reach the bottom microphone (or other microphone(s) accessible via such apertures in any other portions of the privacy/security enclosure) such microphone(s) are uncovered. In some embodiments, the apertures can also allow sound from the speaker(s) accessible by such apertures to more effectively be heard. In some embodiments, this can provide the user with a good user experience if they are using their enclosed device(s) in speakerphone mode or with some other function that uses the bottom or other such speaker. As described earlier, the hood assembly can also include a speaker assembly including speaker drivers, driver mounts, and microphone seals. In some embodiments, the shrouds can comprise DuPont™ Delrin® acetal homopolymer resin and the hood housing can comprise aluminum. In some embodiments, the driver mounts can comprise an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (“ABS”) polymer. Some embodiments of the invention include microphone seals comprising a foam material (e.g., such as a polymer foam).
Some embodiments include a cover assembly. In some embodiments, a cover spring can comprise stainless steel. In some embodiments, the cover sleeve can comprise polyethylene. In some embodiments, the environmental seal can comprise an ethylene propylene diene terpolymer, and the cover outer bezel can comprise an ABS-type polymer.
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a housing assembly that can include at least one logo (e.g., name, entity, and/or company emblems, representations, and/or descriptions), shown as 20142. In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can include a logo 20142 on any side or face, edge or other portion of the privacy/security enclosure 20100. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure 20100 includes at least one logo 20142 positioned on a moveable portion of the privacy/security enclosure (e.g., such as the hood 20130). In some embodiments, the logos 20142 can be embossed, engraved, pressed, etched, printed, or formed by any suitable conventional method provided they do not compromise the shielding effectiveness of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, the lower cover 20144 can comprise a different color, material, or texture than the other portion of the case or cover 20115. For example, in some embodiments, the lower cover 20144 can comprise a medium gray anodized bead blast look. Some embodiments include a base trim 20148. In some embodiments, a button and/or LED 20150 can be integrated with the base 20120. In some embodiments, the button and/or LED can comprise a logo 20142.
In some embodiments of the invention, at least a portion of the housing assembly comprises a conductive material. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the outer surface of the housing assembly includes a conductive material. In some embodiments, the conductive material is positioned coupled with a non-conductive portion of the housing assembly. In some embodiments, the housing assembly includes regions of conductive and non-conductive materials that are substantially seamlessly coupled. In some embodiments of the invention, at least a portion of the exterior surface of the housing assembly can comprise an aluminum type surface finish, a brushed finish, a satin finish, an anodized finish, and/or a texturing finish. In some embodiments, the outer surface can comprise at least one of a polymer, metal, or natural material such as wood or leather, or mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the housing assembly can include at least one exterior trim component forming an exterior surface of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, the exterior trim can comprise a polymer, metal, wood, leather, or mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, any portion of the exterior can comprise any color or combination of colors. In some embodiments, a portion of the housing assembly can comprise at least one aperture. In some embodiments, the at least one aperture can be aligned with at least a portion of a user interface. In some embodiments, the at least one aperture can be aligned with at least a portion of the privacy/security enclosure comprising an indicator such as an LED.
In some embodiments of the invention, by making the core portion of the privacy case only audio/video protective (and optionally protective for some other sensors), all of the RF protection can be positioned in a separate device and/or enclosure. In some embodiments, this can result in a reduction in the size, weight, and cost of the device. In some embodiments, different sizes of Faraday covers or enclosures can be used to accommodate multiple types and sizes of enclosed device(s) cases (e.g., with some Faraday cases or privacy/security enclosures being capable of handling an Apple® iPhone 6+, a Samsung Galaxy® 6, and other large phone or other device models while a medium case would handle audio/video/other sensor protection enclosures for mid-size or other grouping of phones or other device(s) (e.g. tablets, laptops etc.). Galaxy® is a registered trademark of Samsung Electronics.
In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a removable Faraday enclosure. For example, some embodiments include a Faraday enclosure that can be added or removed from the privacy/security enclosure as a separate module. In some embodiments, the Faraday enclosure can comprise of two or more parts that can or may not be physically linked/attached to each other. In some embodiments, the use of one or more compression or other type of RF gaskets can be used to enhance the level of RF attenuation provided by the device.
In some embodiments of the invention, there is no need for RF shielding and/or gasketing for the inner pod (which can provide audio and/or video and/or other sensor protection, but not native RF attenuation/protection.) In some embodiments, such a non-RF protective/privacy case can have a pass-through port to allow access to the headphone jack or other ports of the enclosed device. In some embodiments, both RF and non-RF protective, native or pass-through button and/or switch access to the enclosed device's buttons/switches/controls can be provided. In some embodiments, the Faraday bottom can include passive controls and indicators, and electronics for optional pass-through charging or controlling of the interior device's functions, and/or access/visibility to the interior device's LED's or other such status indicators. Some embodiments include LED pin-hole pass through that can be aligned with passive buttons as described earlier.
Some embodiments of the invention include charge sharing. Some embodiments include a button or switch that is externally accessible or accessible through an aperture (e.g., by inserting the end of a paper clip) that when actuated can enable a dump charge of the privacy case battery to the user's device. For example, in some embodiments, a fixed percentage (e.g., from about 10% to about 20%) of the charge can be transferred. Some embodiments can also include an emergency override that can transfer substantially all remaining charge from the battery).
Some embodiments of the invention can include hardware and software control features to enable battery conservation. For example, some embodiments include a dim LED mode to indicate protection is active while not being distracting to the user in certain environments (e.g., such as during the night in a bedroom or in a darker environment such as a movie theater, etc.) Further, some embodiments include a bright LED mode to enable uses to know if their device is protected while in bright environments (e.g., such as outside on a sunny day or in some other such brightly lit environment.) Further, some embodiments enable the user cycle between various brightness modes (e.g., bright and dim modes, or other modes). Moreover, some embodiments include a status check feature where the user can either press a button to see a bright LED (for some portion of time) to provide an indication that they are being protected, and where the brightness level subsides to a lower level soon after. In some instances, this can happen by default including at any time after the LED state is changed and/or after audio protection is turned on. For example, if a user wakes up in the morning and wants to change from dim mode to a brighter mode, the user can press the button and the LED goes to 90% power for 10 seconds, then subsides to 25% power (which can be more visible than the dim mode, while not excessively draining the battery and reducing the length of time the privacy case can provide audio protection.
In some embodiments, various components include tamper-proof and/or tamper prevention mechanisms. For example, in some embodiments, portions of any of the housing assemblies and enclosures of any of the privacy/security enclosures illustrated in
In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can protect against one or more gesture sensors and/or emitters. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can protect against or reduce the effectiveness of a radar sensor/emitting assembly (e.g., such as a broad beam radar sensor) to measure Doppler image, IQ and spectrogram for use in gesture control of any enclosed device(s).
Some embodiments of the invention can utilize methods to optimize battery performance and longevity. Further, some embodiments can include a battery management profile. For example, some embodiments include a battery management profile that can resist the urge to “fully” charge the battery. In some embodiments, by doing this, the battery capacity fall-off exhibited by LiION cells can be reduced such that the battery can retain its required capacity through more charge cycles. In some embodiments, as disclosed in http://batteryuniversity.com/, in terms of longevity, the optimal charge voltage is 3.92 volts per cell. Battery experts believe that this threshold eliminates all voltage-related stresses, and going lower may not gain further benefits but induce other symptoms. Also disclosed is the following table that summarizes the capacity as a function of charge levels. All values are estimated.
In some embodiments, the any privacy/security enclosure described herein and shown in at least
In some embodiments, any privacy/security enclosure described herein and shown in at least
In some embodiments, in a slide-closed position, any privacy/security enclosure described herein and shown in at least
In some embodiments, the interior of any privacy/security enclosure described herein and shown in at least
Referring to
In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure 20800 can be optionally configured to increase or reduce a level of privacy of a user's device 11. In some embodiments, this can be accomplished simply by positioning or repositioning the privacy/security enclosure 20800. In other embodiments, this can be accomplished by moving and/or adjusting a portion of the privacy/security enclosure 20800. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure 20800 can comprise a main housing 20810 including a movable portion, section, or hood 20850, and a couple or integrated moveable portion, section, window, door or shutter (shown as 20820). In some embodiments, a privacy/security enclosure including a main housing 20810 and hood 20850 can be coupled to a computer and/or display. The main housing 20810 can remain stationary during operation, and the hood 20850 can move relative to the computer and/or display in order to seal and un-seal against the microphones of the user's device. For example,
In some embodiments, the level of privatization can be partial in that some components or devices of the user's device 11 can remain non-private and others are private. For example, in some embodiments, a hood 20850 of the privacy/security enclosure 20800 can be moved with respect to another portion or section of the privacy/security enclosure to cover and make private a webcam but leave open a microphone. For example, example,
In some embodiments, the main housing 20810 can contain one or more PCBs, electronics components, and at least one battery such as a Li-Ion battery for at least partially powering the privacy/security enclosure, one or more springs, and one or more latches, etc. In some embodiments, the user's device can be attached by snapping it into the mounting plate. In some embodiments, the mounting plate includes a release lever that can allow the device to be removed from the mounting plate. In some embodiments, this lever can also act as a spring to hold the device in place when it is attached.
In some embodiments of the invention, the hood 20850 can contain at least one sealing mechanism, one or more PCBs, and/or one or more LEDs, etc. In some embodiments, the hood 20850 can be positioned in two positions (e.g., down and up). In some embodiments, when the hood 20850 is down, it can be fully seated into the main housing 20810, and any rubber seals can be in contact with the areas around the microphones to provide audio sealing. In some embodiments, when the hood 20850 is up, the seals may not be in contact with the computer and/or display, and hence the microphones can provide audio functionality.
In some embodiments, the hood 20850 or other moveable and/or upper portion can include a texture or pattern. In other embodiments, other portions of the main housing 20810 can include a texture or pattern. In some further embodiments, the hood 20850 or other movable upper portion can include an outer surface comprising a glossy surface. In some embodiments, other portions of the main housing 20810 can include a glossy outer surface. In some other embodiments, the movable upper portion can include an outer surface comprising a matte surface. In some embodiments, other portions of the main housing 20810 can include a matte outer surface.
Some embodiments include one or more mechanisms for moving and/or closing portions of the privacy/security enclosure (e.g., a lower portion or base portion and an upper portion or lid or hood 20850). For example, in some embodiments, when a user applies a force to the lid or hood 20850, the privacy/security enclosure 20810 can be closed. In some embodiments, by pulling on the lid or hood 20850, the privacy/security enclosure 20810 can be opened. In other embodiments, the user can push a closed lid or hood 20850 to open or release it from the main housing 20810. In some other embodiments, the user can push the hood 20850 down to lower it, and can push a button to raise the hood 20850 (uncovering one or more microphones). In some embodiments, the button can be on the top of the privacy/security enclosure, the front of the privacy/security enclosure, or somewhere else on the device.
In some embodiments of the invention, the mechanisms that provide protection, including protections against audio, video, and/or other sensors (i.e. gyroscope, accelerometers and/or any other sensor that is part of the enclosed/protected device(s) etc.) can be integrated into the core structure of the privacy/security enclosure (i.e. not require the described hood 20850 mechanism). In some embodiments, such mechanisms can be activated/deactivated with a slide, button, switch and/or other such physical and/or electro-mechanical feature, which feature can activate/deactivate the protection for zero, one or more microphone(s), camera(s) or other sensors for the enclosed device(s) in a single action/motion/interaction, while in other embodiments of the invention, such a feature can require two or more actions/motions/interactions (i.e. button press, switch slide, etc.).
Some embodiments include one or more springs to help raise the hood 20850 up from the down position. Different types of springs with different spring rates and different dampening mechanisms can be used to give varying levels of tension and different mechanical feedback to the user for raising and lowering the hood 20850. In some embodiments, different types of material can also be used to change the sound the user hears when the hood 20850 raises or lowers. In some other embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include at least one latch that can be used to couple with the hood 20850 as it is lowered to the base. In some embodiments, a catch mechanism can be used with the latch. In some embodiments, the latch can be released from the catch using a release button. An embodiment including a latch is discussed further below in relation to
In some embodiments, the hood 20850 can include a push-pull action to open and close the hood 20850 with the main housing 20810. For example, in some embodiments, the hood 20850 can be pushed down by the user to translate one or more seal mechanisms from the open unsealed state to the closed sealed state. Further, in some embodiments, one or more internal latches can retain the hood 20850 in the closed position to maintain pressure on the seals. Some embodiments include internal rods that are mounted in the stationary main housing 20810, and guides in the hood 20850 couple with the rods to enable the rods to slide smoothly in the correct positions. In some embodiments, dual, triple or quadruple rods and corresponding guides can be used.
In some embodiments, the hood 20850 can be pulled up by the user to release the seals and move the hood 20850 to the open position. In some further embodiments, the retaining latch can be overpowered by the force of the user pulling up, and the hood 20850 can be moved until it reaches a peak position. In some embodiments, when released from the user's finger or hand, the hood 20850 can be maintained in the upright position by the retaining latch. Some further embodiments include the addition of at least one spring to provide a spring-assisted motion to the hood 20850.
In some embodiments of the invention, the user can perform a similar action to close the hood 20850 (i.e., by pushing down on the hood 20850). In some embodiments, one or more conventional internal latches can be installed. In some embodiments, the latch can couple onto the hood 20850, and when the full distance of the stroke is achieved, the user can release the hood 20850, and the hood 20850 can be retained in the sealed position. In some embodiments, the latch can require an over travel of about 1-2 millimeters. In this instance, after reaching the fully depressed position and being released, the latch can allow the hood 20850 to return a couple of millimeters on the upward stroke before the mechanical lock can fully engage into a final position.
In some embodiments, in order to release the hood 20850 to the upright position, the user can again push down on the hood 20850 from the top. This movement actuates the latch and releases the hood 20850, and the hood 20850 can then move upward into a fully open position. In some embodiments, the system can be spring loaded to provide an upward spring force on the hood 20850, driving the hood 20850 into the upright open position when it is released.
In some embodiments of the invention, the hood 20850 can be pushed down from the top to mechanically latch in place in a final sealed position. In some embodiments, an internal custom-made latch can be positioned in the main housing 20810 to retain the hood 20850. In some embodiments, over-travel is not required in this system. In some embodiments, in order to release the hood 20850, a push-button can be positioned on the front of the device. In some embodiments, a user can push this button move the latch from the retaining feature and spring loaded hood 20850 lifts to an open position. In some embodiments, the release of the latch can be actuated from a button on the side, or front, or back, or top of the device. In some embodiments, a lever or pull-button, or other conventional actuator can be used in place of the button.
In some embodiments, the hood 20850 can be moved using an electronic and/or electro-mechanical assembly. For example, in some embodiments, the hood 20850 can be translated using a solenoid or small motor. In some embodiments, these systems can involve the user pushing a button (on the device, or remote to the device, either tethered or wireless) that can actuate the motor/solenoid. This would translate the hood 20850 from the open to the closed position, or vice-versa. The button could be protected with an additional security layer, such as a PIN entry keypad, or fingerprint sensor, or other.
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure 20800 can utilize various sub-assemblies and components that attach to and/or mechanically interact with the computer and/or display. For example, some embodiments of the invention include one or more mounting plates. For example, some embodiments include a molded plastic plate that can be aligned relative to the top, rear and/or other such microphones on the computer and/or display, and can be attached to the rear surface with an adhesive tape. Some embodiments include a v-notch in the center of the top portion of the plate that indicates where a specific microphone should be in relation to the plate. Some further embodiments include one or more upper alignment tabs (e.g., one on each side) of the mounting plate that can hang over the top edge of the computer and/or display to position the mounting plate vertically on the computer and/or display. Further, some embodiments include various features, detents, holes, etc., on the mounting plate that interact with the sealing mechanisms of the device. Some embodiments include a plurality of tabs on the mounting plate that act as features to guide and retain the device when it is mounted to the mounting plate. In some further embodiments, an adhesive foam tape can be positioned under the mounting plate to enable a mechanical attachment to the computer and/or display, while proving a substantially sealed audio coupling between the housing of the computer and/or display and the mounting plate. Substantially sealed as used herein means providing a seal sufficient to enable the privacy/security enclosure to minimize and/or reduce eavesdropping or the effectiveness of eavesdropping on or listening to communications. Gaskets can also be used to help improve the sealing characteristics as well.
Embodiments of the invention include various sealing element geometries (e.g., flat, conical, round, o-ring, molded, etc.), and with various durometer values, and within various rubber materials (EPDM, polyurethane, etc.) In some embodiments, the sealing element can be attached to the computer and/or display with adhesive tape. In other embodiments, the sealing element can be attached to the hood 20850, and configured to couple to the computer and/or display when translated up and/or down. Perfect seals are impossible to create in these applications, of course, but seals suitable for the purposes of these embodiments are readily created using the disclosed structures. Accordingly, the term “seal” as used herein is not limited to a complete or perfect seal, but instead a seal that is sufficient to provide desired reduction or attenuation.
In some embodiments of the invention, the hood 20850 can house or integrate one or more speakers and PCB with the noise generators, an LED “on” light, and other electronic components. In some embodiments, each of the speakers can be embedded in a molded sealing element that can act to partially seal out ambient noise from the speaker chamber. In some embodiments, when this sealing element is an intimate contact with the computer and/or display and/or the mounting plate, the speaker can partially isolated from the ambient noise, and a small column of air can be trapped between the microphone and the speaker. In this instance, when the speakers are turned on, the microphones can primarily sense the noise that is being generated by the device. In some embodiments, the sealing element, the sealing surface on the mounting plate, the seal between the mounting plate and the computer and/or display, and the locking force provided by the retaining features/latches/spring of the system can be factors in providing an adequate seal to the microphones.
In some embodiments of the invention, the upper microphone sealing mechanism can operate by applying downward force from the hood 20850, through the sealing element, to the surface of the computer and/or display around the top microphone. In some embodiments, the compression force can be retained by the internal latch of the system.
Some embodiments of the invention include a lever seal. For example, some embodiments include a spring loaded lever that would normally pull the sealing element of the rear speaker to an upright, or open position. In some embodiments, when the hood 20850 is closed, the lever can be rotated into the closed position to provide the sealing force on the sealing element, where the lever or something coupled to the lever contacts a feature of the mounting plate as it reaches the sealing position. In some embodiments, the spring force, the lever geometry and actuating feature geometry can function together to provide the timing and effectiveness of the seal. Further, in some embodiments, the system can be reversed, so that the lever can be spring loaded to be normally closed, and an actuating feature on the mounting plate can move the lever as the hood 20850 is raised to the open position.
Some embodiments include a piston seal. In some embodiments, a spring loaded carrier can house the sealing element. In some embodiments, the spring loaded mechanism can force the sealing element down normal to the mounting plate. In some embodiments, the carrier can include multiple contact pins that serve to space the sealing element at a distance from the mounting plate. In some embodiments, this can ensure that when the hood 20850 is anywhere other than the final sealing location, the pins can lift the sealing element up off the mounting plate, and thus the microphones can offer normal functionality. In some embodiments, there are detent features in the mounting plate corresponding to the pins that allow the carrier to move down into the final sealed position when the hood 20850 is in the closed position. Therefore, in some embodiments, the rear sealing element can be in intimate contact with the mounting plate in the closed position, and the rear microphone can sealed from ambient noise.
Some further embodiments include one or more sealing paths to various sensors on the protected device in order to enhance or improve the effectiveness, efficiency and/or usability of protection. In some embodiments, the sealed or partially sealed path/channel from sound generators (e.g. speakers or drivers) can increase the amount of acoustical energy reaching the microphone(s) of the protected devices, reducing power requirements and/or allowing the use of smaller and/or less powerful drivers/speakers when compared to the acoustical power that would be required to deliver an equivalent level of protection in an open or non-sealed/non partially sealed environment. In some embodiments, the sealed or partially sealed path/channel from sound generators (e.g. speakers or drivers) can reduce and/or attenuate the amount of masking signal(s) reaching outside of the path/channel, thereby reducing the detectability and/or obtrusiveness of such signal to the outside environment. In some embodiments, the sealed or partially sealed path/channel from sound generators (e.g. speakers or drivers) can reduce and/or attenuate outside signals/sounds reaching the protected device(s) microphone(s) and/or sensors, providing some level of protection and/or also reducing the level of masking signal(s) required to deliver an equivalent level of protection in an open or non-sealed/non partially sealed environment.
In some embodiments of the invention, the source and/or seed for random audio masking signal(s) can be electrical components such as a diode and/or the thermal noise of a resistor. In some embodiments of the invention, such random noise seed/source can be amplified in order to reach a desired level of protection. In some embodiments of the invention, the noise seed, amplified and/or unamplified, can be filtered and/or sculpted to a more desired noise profile for the audio masking signal (e.g. blue, pink, gray, white and/or other such profile) which can provide desired characteristics for one or more specific purposes, including, but not limited to lower power consumption and/or more effective masking for a similar/related level of protection against certain types of audio information (e.g. human speech and/or other types of audio information) when compared to other noise profiles. In some embodiments of the invention, less obtrusive and/or noticeable noise profiles can be created by lowering the frequency components/content above certain frequency levels (e.g. varying and/or different frequency levels typically ranging anywhere from between 300 Hz to 3 kHz) when compared to noise profiles that haven't been filtered/sculpted and/or modified for such purposes. In some embodiments of the invention, the random seed can be used as the seed for being and/or generating encryption keys for voice, data, video and/or other types of encryption implemented or supported by the privacy/security enclosure itself and/or the hardware and/or software of device(s) protected by the privacy/security enclosure.
In some embodiments of the invention, a single and/or multiple audio masking signals (random, pseudo-random, deterministic or other) can be used as the source for protection against one or more microphones and/or other sensors. In some embodiments of the invention, separate and/or distinct audio masking signals (random, pseudo-random, deterministic and/or other) can be used as the source for protection against one or more microphones and/or other sensors, including some embodiments where separate, dedicated audio masking signals can exist for each microphone of any device(s) protected by the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments of the invention, separate and/or distinct random audio masking signals can be used for each for each microphone on a device(s) protected by the privacy/security enclosure, reducing the likelihood and/or ability of an authorized and/or unauthorized listener from subtracting and/or otherwise using one signal against another in order to extract and/or process and/or otherwise attempt to recover protected audio content. In some embodiments of the invention, the audio masking signal(s) can be a combination of different types of filtered/sculpted noise profiles or they can be a result from cycling through a variety of different noise signals.
In some embodiments of the invention, the volume and/or power level of some and/or all audio masking signals can be varied, with resulting effects such as the increase and/or decrease in the level of audio masking effectiveness in masking signal detectability, etc. In some embodiments of the invention, the variation in audio masking signal power can be performed without user interaction/input while in other embodiments of the invention the user can control such variation with buttons, knobs, dials, sliders, software and/or other user input/output/interaction mechanisms.
In some embodiments of the invention, the hood 20850 and/or the main housing 20810 can contain a sensor system (such as a sensor coupled to a controller) that interacts to determine if the hood 20850 is at least partially open or in a sealed position. For example, in some embodiments, a magnet can be attached to the main housing 20810, and a Hall-effect sensor can be coupled to the hood 20850. In some embodiments of the invention, when the hood 20850 is closed, the magnet can be sensed by the Hall-effect sensor, and the system can determine that the hood 20850 is in the closed position. In some embodiments, this event can cause the system to turn on or off and/or activate and/or deactivate the noise speaker(s). In some embodiments, when the hood 20850 moves from the closed position, the system (using the Hall-effect sensor) can sense the absence of the magnet, and the system can turn off. In some embodiments, this can be done with a reed sensor in place of a Hall-effect sensor, or with a mechanical switch actuated when the hood 20850 moves. In some embodiments, by sensing when the hood 20850 is in the closed position, the user interface can be simplified because there is no “on-off” switch. Moreover, it ensures that the system is turned on when the hood 20850 is in position, so the user is prevented from forgetting to turn the audio masking on.
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include an alternative hood 20850 sensor that allows to the user to determine when the hood 20850 is in the raised versus lowered position. In some embodiments, the hood sensor can be used by a control system to automatically turn off any current audio masking signal when the hood 20850 is raised, and automatically turn the signal back on when the hood 20850 is lowered).
In some embodiments of the invention, the hood 20850 can provide enhanced audio when it is raised. For example, in some embodiments, any cavities created when the hood 20850 is raised can be shaped or curved to modify and/or enhance the amount and/or quality of sound that reaches the microphone(s) when the hood 20850 is raised. In some embodiments, well-known sound enhancing shapes can be provided in the hood 20850. In some embodiments of the invention, where multiple cavities are created when the hood 20850 or other portion of the invention is moved, the creation and/or shape of the cavities can be used to enhance noise reduction/cancellation and/or echo cancellation technologies using the various uncovered microphones.
In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can include one or more gesture sensors and/or emitters. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include a radar sensor/emitting assembly (e.g., such as a broad beam radar sensor) to measure Doppler image, IQ and spectrogram for use in gesture control of the privacy/security enclosure and/or any user device contained within the privacy/security enclosure.
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure 21300 can comprise a main housing 21310 that comprises or includes the at least one universal mount 21318. Further, the main housing 21310 can include a coupled camera shutter 21320 and a camera shutter button 21325 for operating the camera shutter 21320. The privacy/security enclosure 21300 can also include at least one visual indicator of operation such as one or more LED indicators 21330, along with an LED dimmer button 21335. The hood 21350 can comprise a microphone seal 21340 that can be used to seal with the inner region 21342 of the main housing 21310. Further, in some embodiments, the hood 21350 can be operational to form a microphone seal engagement using finger grip, button release and push-down, and/or pen style push and release. Data, power, or other connectivity can be accomplished through cable management 21345 (e.g. a USB cable management).
Some further embodiments can include alternative embodiments of cable management. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include USB cable management comprising magnetic control management, and/or color coded management, and/or at least one visual cue.
In some embodiments, some portion of the privacy/security enclosure can include an alignment marking or notch. In some embodiments, the marking or notch can assist the user to position the cover or mount to a specific location. Some embodiments can also include an aperture that can be aligned with and/or placed over one or more microphones of the device (e.g., such as a top and/or rear facing microphone).
In some further embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include one or more mounting tabs that can be used for attachment to a computer and/or display. Some embodiments can include moveable release mechanisms to enable attachment or release of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, the mounting bracket or feature can include mechanical structures and/or mating, sealing and/or other such materials that aid in the creation of a sealed path/channel between any speaker(s) of the privacy/security enclosure and microphone(s) of the protected device(s).
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include at least one microphone seal. Some embodiments include a microphone seal that comprises a vertical slide. In some further embodiments, the microphone seal can comprise a flip, pivot, or rotating seal that can flip, pivot, or rotate from the main body of the privacy/security enclosure to provide effective sealing that is durable over a larger number of sealing and unsealing cycles than many conventional sliding seals.
In some embodiments, engagement of the microphone seal can be accomplished using a finger grip. In some further embodiments, a user can engage the microphone seal using a button release and combined push down. Some further embodiments can comprise a pen-style push and release (e.g., such a conventional spring-loaded push down and release mechanism used in a conventional pen).
Some embodiments include LED indicators. Some embodiments can include one or more logos and/or brand images, including logos and/or brand images that comprise LED indicators. Some embodiments include a light pipe as at least a portion of an indicator. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include a light pipe to allow ambient light through the privacy/security enclosure so that the automated screen brightness function of the enclosed user device (if it has one) continues to function even though at least a portion of the privacy/security enclosure is at least partially covering the user's device. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise an LED dimmer button. In some embodiments, the button can comprise a capacitive touch button, a round button, or a square button.
As described earlier, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can be configurable or reconfigurable to adjust the level of privacy. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include a removable portion or section that can be added or removed with respect to another portion or section of the privacy/security enclosure to adjust the level of privacy of the device. In some other embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include a movable portion or section that can be moved with respect to another portion or section of the privacy/security enclosure to adjust the level of privacy of the device.
Some embodiments of the invention can comprise at least one surface provided with an adhesive (e.g., such as an adhesive tape) to couple the privacy/security enclosure to a surface of the user's device. In some embodiments, other conventional attachment mechanisms can be used including, but not limited to clips, guides or sliders, snap-on mounts, magnetic mounts, and Velcro® mounts. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can be coupled to a computer and/or display using double-sided adhesive.
In some embodiments, the privacy level of the privacy/security enclosure 21400 can be modified by sliding the slidable main housing 21410 so that the aperture 21452 of the main housing 21400 and aperture 21415 at least partially overlap. In other embodiments, the privacy level of the privacy/security enclosure 21400 can be increased by sliding the slidable main housing 21410 so that the aperture 21452 of the main housing 21410 and aperture 21415 do not overlap.
In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can include a movable portion or section that can be moved by rotating or pivoting with respect to another portion or section of the privacy/security enclosure to adjust the level of privacy of the device. For example,
In some embodiments of the invention, a section or portion of the privacy/security enclosure can be raised or lowered to alter the privacy level of the privacy/security enclosure. Various seals can be engaged and disengaged during this process including seals to microphones, speakers, sensors and optical capture devices. For example,
In some embodiments of the invention, any of the privacy/security enclosures shown and described in
In some further embodiments, any of the privacy/security enclosures shown and described in
Some embodiments of the invention include active sound masking. Some embodiments of the invention include a noise delivery system that takes the masking signal generated by one or more speakers within the privacy/security enclosure and delivers it to one or more of the various microphones that can be covered and/or protected by the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, any of the privacy/security enclosures shown and described in
For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise one microphone in the middle of the low frequency of the common voice frequency band and another in the middle of the medium frequency voice band. In some embodiments, using a deep noise floor, the presence of speech can be detected (while not capturing the voice content) while ensuring privacy/security enclosure protection is activated. Some embodiments include a random masking signal. In some embodiments, one or more speakers can be used to cover one or more microphones to create a separate random, pseudo-random or other type of noise source and separate speaker for each microphone in a protected device. Some embodiments of the invention include specialized speaker and/or speaker driver selection. Some embodiments include a privacy/security enclosure that can produce one or more specific waveforms to mask human speech. Moreover, some embodiments include speakers that can produce the desired waveforms with relatively low power consumption. For example, some waveforms can be produced with power consumption less than 850 uA. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can change and/or delay a starting time for the masking signal. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure includes a control system that enables the system and/or the user to select and vary the amount of time between speech detection and masking signal activation.
In some embodiments, any of the privacy/security enclosures shown and described in
In some embodiments of the invention, any of the privacy/security enclosures shown and described in
In some embodiments of the invention, a section or portion of the privacy/security enclosure can be slid or moved to alter the privacy level of the privacy/security enclosure. For example,
As described earlier with respect to privacy/security enclosure 20800, some embodiments can include an integrated moveable portion, section, window, door or shutter. Further example embodiments of privacy/security enclosures with various shutter and shutter actuation methods are shown in
In some embodiments of the invention, regions of the privacy/security enclosure that can be used for user interaction (e.g., various surfaces that can be used to grip or move a portion of the privacy/security enclosure) can include tabs or raised areas (e.g., ramps etc.) that can enable the user to more easily move the portion of the device that needs to be moved, and also to provide a cue as to where and how they should actuate such a mechanism. Some embodiments include textured surfaces or materials/coatings that make such surfaces less slippery to the user.
In some embodiments, a user can activate a portion of the privacy/security enclosure to privatize the underlying device. In some embodiments, the privacy level of the privacy/security enclosure can be changed by opening at least a portion of the privacy/security enclosure (such as a shutter) with respect to another portion of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a button-activated aperture such as a shutter. In some embodiments, the camera shutter can comprise an iris. In some embodiments, the camera shutter can comprise a horizontal shutter. In some further embodiments, the camera shutter can comprise a vertical shutter.
In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a camera shutter operating mechanism. For example, in some embodiments, the camera shutter can comprise a push-button mechanism. In some further embodiments, the camera shutter can comprise a slider, such as a slide positioned in one or more guides. For example, in reference to
Some embodiments of the invention include a privacy/security enclosure 22200 comprising a main housing 22210 including a coupled hood 22250. The main housing 22210 can include a shutter aperture 22220 and an actuable shutter 22230. Further, the shutter 22230 can be actuated by a user using an integrated shutter actuator button 22240. In some embodiments, the shutter 22230 can be manually or automatically actuated. For example, in some embodiments, a user can close the shutter 22230 by actuating the shutter actuator button 22240. When closed, the shutter 22230 can be opened by actuating the shutter actuator button 22240.
Referring to
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In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can include at least one external connector such as a USB or micro-USB connector. In some embodiments, the external connector can include a coupled lead such a USB or micro-USB lead. In some embodiments, the coupled lead can provide power to the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, a USB wall charger can be used to couple to the USB to provide power to the privacy/security enclosure.
In some embodiments, the external connector and/or external lead can be positioned adjacent one end of the privacy/security enclosure. In other embodiments, the external connector and/or external lead can be positioned between the ends of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments of the invention, the external connector and/or external lead can be positioned at the rear of the privacy/security enclosure. For example,
Some embodiments comprise an internally powered privacy/security enclosure. For example,
In some embodiments, a privacy/security enclosure can include at least one speaker mounted in the main section of the main housing and positioned proximate the inner surface of the main portion of the main housing, and at least one speaker mounted in the upper portion of the main housing, and positioned proximate the inner surface of the upper portion. For example,
In reference to
In some further embodiments, one or more lightpipes can be used to enable a user to view at least a portion of the display or other structure of the user's device. For example, in some embodiments, a lightpipe can include an optical pass-through function to enable the LED signal of the underlying device to pass-through to the user. For example, if the user's device has display or LED that is lit (e.g., indicating that the device's camera is recording), even though a portion of the privacy device can actually be covering or partially obstructing such LED.
Referring to
In some further embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure 23700 can comprise an outer surface that includes at least one patterned or textured outer surface. In some embodiments, raising the hood 23750 can expose a color accent warning. Further, in some embodiments, the main housing 23710 can include at least one capacitive touch control 23712. In some embodiments, the main housing 23710 can include one or more logos 23711. Further, in some embodiments, a micro-USB connector can be coupled into the main housing 23710.
Referring to
The example embodiments of
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In some embodiments of the invention, the shutter of a privacy/security enclosure can be moved by a user using an extension or slider at one end of the privacy/security enclosure. For example, referring to
Further,
Referring to
In some embodiments, the main housing can be customized. For example,
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can be mounted to a surface by coupling to an adapter. In some embodiments, the adapter can be configured specifically for a user device (such as a 21″ or 27″ computer or display). In some embodiment, the adapter can be coupled to the user device using one or more adhesive strips. In some embodiments, after coupling the adapter to the user device, the privacy/security enclosure can be mounted to the user device by coupling the privacy/security enclosure with the adapter. In some other embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can be mounted to the adapter, and the privacy/security enclosure with adapter can be mounted to the user device. In some embodiments, a gasket can be used in addition to the adapter to improve the seal between the surface and the cover and/or adapter. For example,
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure embodiments 24800 can be mounted to a user device. For example,
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure embodiments 25200 can be mounted to a user device. For example,
Further,
Further,
In some embodiments of the invention, a hood cover or enclosure/cover 26615a can be coupled with an internal case or device in multiple orientations, including, but not limited to, a 180 degree or reversible orientation. In some embodiments, features of the internal case or enclosed/covered device can be accessible, visible or be able to be activated or deactivated, tuned, adjusted, or changed via various devices and/or assemblies, including, but not limited to light pipes, buttons, switches, controls, transparent, translucent or otherwise light, texture and/or touch sensitive/passing materials and/or surfaces.
In some further embodiments of the invention, the passing of sensor information, data communication via wired or wireless technologies and/or other types of energy or information transfer can be allowed in at least one direction to or from, through or to the inside and outside of the privacy/security enclosure 26600. For example, in some embodiments, a port or mechanism for data transfer can be included to allow power passing and/or charging of batteries. Further, ports or mechanisms to pass other forms of energy such as sound, light, pressure, heat and others can be included. In some embodiments of the invention, any information or energy passing to/from or through any cover or enclosure of the privacy/security enclosure 26600 can be modified, changed, obfuscated, amplified, attenuated or blocked for a particular purpose. For example, in some embodiments of the invention, a port or other mechanism can be included such that sensors (including, but not limited to barometric, echo location/sonar, motion, heat, light, RF, video or sound sensors) can operate within the cover or enclosure.
In other embodiments of the invention, the port or other mechanism can be sealable/closable to a full or partial percentage to content/information passing through the port, another mechanism or the cover or enclosure itself can be modified or changed by features or functions built into or around the cover or enclosure, making it either easier or more difficult for the sensor or impacted capability to operate or to record/capture information as compared to the absence of such port, mechanism, seal, repeater, amplification, modification, masking, obfuscation or other capability. For example,
Some embodiments can include an enclosure that can be at least partially opened or closed by a user, and/or can include a portion that can be moved, adjusted, opened or closed by a user to adjust a level of privacy/security. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the housing assembly can be moved with respect to another portion of the housing assembly, or can comprise one or more separable and/or moveable portions. For example,
The structure shown in
Some embodiments include structures forming or housing a Faraday cage (including, without limitation, the Faraday base assembly 26627 shown in
Further components of the base assembly 26625 can be seen in
In some further embodiments, one or more components can extend through the main base 27025. For example, in some embodiments, a control button assembly 27020 can be positioned in the main base 27025, including a portion (i.e., a button 27021) that extends through an aperture 27026 in the main base 27025 to enable access and control of at least one function of the privacy/security enclosure 26600 by the user. Other embodiments can include one or more light-pipe assemblies 27030 positioned within the main base 27025 to enable optical transfer.
The main board assembly with the base assembly can also be seen in
Some embodiments can include various Faraday cage related structures and/or shell or cover components. For example,
Many modern mobile phones have the ability to measure acceleration in the x, y, and z axis (e.g., using an accelerometer), and have the ability to measure rotational velocity around the x, y, and z axis (e.g., using a gyroscope). In some embodiments, it is possible to convert measurements from accelerometer and gyroscope outputs to signals that capture the human voice. For example, in the case of a user's mobile phone contained within an enclosure resting on a table, acoustic energy from user's conversation can be captured by the table and can be coupled to the mobile phone via the enclosure. A major coupling mechanism in this example, depending on the source of the audio content, can be the accelerometer z axis, where the z axis is defined as perpendicular to the surface of the mobile phone and the table.
Some embodiments of the invention include systems and methods for obscuration or elimination of the detection of human voice using any sensor within a mobile communication device. For example, such obscuration can prevent or disrupt the ability of a sensor such as an accelerometer and gyroscope to detect the presence of a human voice, discriminate the gender of a spoken human voice, and/or understand the content and meaning spoken by a human voice (i.e., the recorded communication is not intelligible.)
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Some embodiments include integrated vibrators or actuators. For example,
Some embodiments of the invention include integrated vibrators or actuators designed to mask, reduce, confuse, trick, send false or misleading information or prevent the ability of gyroscopes, accelerometers or other sensors to provide movement and/or location information. For example, in some cases, given a known or approximated starting location, even in the absence of location tracking capabilities provided by cellular triangulation, GPS capabilities, WiFi, beacon or other technologies, gyroscopes, accelerometers or other such sensors can be able to provide general or specific movement information such that when an ending location is known or approximated, movements between the starting and ending location can be determined, either roughly or specifically. Some embodiments of the invention can use signals such as pulsed, random, pseudo-random, deterministic, broadband, tuned and/or otherwise tailored signals to drive vibrators and/or actuators in such a way that masks, confuses, misleads, reduces or prevents the ability of sensors to determine movement and/or location information. Such vibrators and/or actuators can be coupled to the user device 10 in conventional ways or as described above. Some embodiments of the invention can use the motion of the enclosed user device 10 or of the enclosure itself as an input/variable used in determining the signal driving the vibrators/actuators.
In some embodiments, a sensor can be used to measure vibrational energy at the surface of the user device 10, and an actuator is used to create a compensating vibration at the surface of the user device 10. In some embodiments of the invention, a processing element can receive signals from a sensor. In some embodiments, the processing element sends a drive signal to an actuator to indicate that the sensed vibrations are compensated within the audio bandwidth. In this instance, the resulting vibration at the surface of the phone is changed, reduced or practically eliminated. In some embodiments, the sensing and actuating elements can be the same (e.g. piezoelectric drive/piezoelectric sensing). In some other embodiments, the sensing and actuating elements can be different. For example,
Some embodiments can include controlled light transfer and/or collection. For example,
Referring to
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a structure that accommodates a user using the privacy/security enclosure as a sleeve to protect or make private one or more user devices. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can be wrapped, attached, secured, or otherwise coupled to the user's device. For example,
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can communicate to the user's device though this connection and/or receive power from this connection. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can control one or more components of the user's device through the device's USB, micro-USB or other port and/or while coupled to the device's USB, micro-USB or other port. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can physically cover or electronically control one or more sensors of the user's device including, but not limited to, a camera or microphone.
In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can couple to a USB, micro-USB or other port/connector of a user's device. For example,
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can be configured with one or more device tethers. For example,
In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can be configured to create at least a partial vacuum in at least a portion of the user's device 15. For example,
In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a system or method for redirecting or channeling fan exhaust air within the user's device over or to a microphone of the user's device 15. For example,
In some embodiments, the geometry and structure of the privacy/security enclosure can be adjusted to complement the size, shape, or form factor of the user's device. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include a structure capable of at least partially housing and enclosing a laptop or computer tablet. For example,
In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a docking station type configuration. In some embodiments, a user device 10 (or 15) can be docked into an aperture of the privacy/security enclosure or the privacy/security enclosure can be wrapped or folded around the user device to dock or secure the device. For example,
Alternative privacy/security enclosure structures are shown in
Some embodiments of the invention include a privacy/security enclosure configured to emit noise. For example,
In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can be configured as an added cover or enclosure to cover or cover of a user's device. For example,
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include a privacy/security enclosure configured to alter the privacy/security of a commercial gaming or gaming peripheral. For example,
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure for a Microsoft Kinect™ system or similar gaming system or gaming peripheral can comprise one or more foldable or articulating covers. For example,
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include privacy/security adjustment options for optical and IR sensing and audio functions of the Microsoft Kinect™ For example,
In some further embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a recess in a box enclosure. For example,
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include an attachable cover comprising a sound dampening material.
In some embodiments of the invention, the actuation of privacy/security features, the movement of any or all covers, flaps, sheaths, sleeves, shields or any other moveable portion of the enclosure can be accomplished via electro-mechanical assemblies or devices. In some embodiments of the invention, the triggering or activation of any powered protection features, such as the electro-mechanical movement of a cover, shield, sleeve or any other moveable portion of the enclosure, the turning on, off or increase/decrease in the volume or level of protective features such as audio masking, the modification of some aspect of the user interface such as the brightness of LED's or other such feature can occur via switches, buttons or other physical interface on the enclosure, or via one or more remote-controlled, wired or wireless interface device. In some embodiments of the invention, the controls of the privacy/security enclosure can be triggered by voice or sound activation, motion or other such interface.
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a privacy/security device configured to operate as a power controller and/or circuit breaker between the Microsoft Kinect™ system and one or more gaming systems. In some embodiments, a user can use a wired or wireless controller of a coupled gaming system to control the privacy/security device (e.g., to enable or disable power and/or connectivity between the Microsoft Kinect™ system and one or more gaming systems).
For example, in some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can control the power, connectivity, or at least one function of the Microsoft Kinect™ system. As just one example,
In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a cylinder or roll-cover type assembly. For example,
Referring to
In some embodiments of the invention, multiple distortion, confusion or masking light sources can be coordinated to reduce or eliminate the ability of optical sensors to perform their intended function. In other embodiments of the invention, software or hardware based recognition technologies can be used on inbound images and/or data received by camera(s) integrated into the privacy/security enclosure to recognize and/or identify external cameras and optical sensors such that masking, confusing or distorting signals can be targeted towards such identified devices. In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can be mounted on or within vehicles. In other embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can be integrated with or take the shape of wearable devices such as hats, clothing, glasses or some other such form of easily portable or moveable device that can be carried by the user in some or many of their day to day activities.
In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise a removable adhesive cover or sticker configured to at least partially absorb, reflect, or otherwise prevent transmission of optical or IR radiation. For example,
In some embodiments, the operation and privacy/security of a remote control device can be altered using a privacy/security enclosure. For example,
In some embodiments, one or more functions of the privacy/security enclosure can be operated using a remote control transceiver. For example,
In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can include smart glass or filter. For example,
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can include a power or battery control function. For example,
Some embodiments can include automobile privacy protection. For example, some embodiments include a privacy/security enclosure that can act as a switch or circuit breaker controlling the ability of one or more of a vehicle's communication systems to operate. For example, some embodiments of the invention can address the well-publicized remote hacking of a popular manufacturer's vehicle, wherein the brakes, acceleration and other functions of the car were able to be remotely controlled by the hacker. In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can restrict, filter or cut off access to one or more of the vehicles external communication capabilities, minimizing, reducing, making more difficult or eliminating the ability of a remote actor to control one or more of the vehicle's functions. In other embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure, actuated either manually by the user or by software in the event of one or more trigger conditions, can restrict, filter or cut off access of one or more portions of a vehicle's systems from one or more others. For example, in some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can cut-off, minimize, filter or restrict access from a vehicle's entertainment system or other such system to provide protective capability in the event that the system is faulty, has been hacked and/or had its software, firmware or hardware added to, modified, deleted or replaced, or had new software, firmware or hardware installed, maliciously or otherwise. In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can restrict, minimize, filter or eliminate access of one or more portions or sub-portions (e.g. not the entire vehicle control system, but rather the braking system or not the entire braking system, but rather portion of the braking system) of one or more of the vehicles systems to one or more other portions or sub-portions of one or more other systems or to one or more shared networks, buses or other such communication facilities. For example, some embodiments of the privacy/security enclosure can provide more nuanced filtering, reduction or elimination of connectivity such that certain critical, non-faulty or non-hacked capabilities maintain connectivity while other, less critical, faulty or hacked portions of the system have their connectivity reduced, filtered or cut-off. In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can allow or trigger the connection to or activation of backup vehicle control or other such systems. In other embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can allow the ability to access, source or reload one or more backup, redundant, or protected software/code sources for one or more vehicle systems. Some embodiments of the privacy/security enclosure can reduce or eliminate the ability of one or more vehicle systems from being able to access other systems and/or from accessing any remote network or communication capability. For example, some embodiments of the privacy/security enclosure can reduce, eliminate or filter the access of systems that control vehicle operation (e.g., brakes, steering, acceleration, gauges, windshield wipers etc.) from systems such as vehicular entertainment systems or cellular or other forms of remote communication, such that while auto manufacturers or other parties can no longer be able to remotely access sensor data from such systems, hackers can no longer be able to remotely access such systems either.
Some embodiments include automobile privacy/security enclosures configured to function at least as described above. For example,
In some embodiments, the privacy/security systems 31701, 31702 can enable a user to select and control and/or disconnect existing sensors or inputs to a vehicle's control system (shown as system control 31715). In some embodiments, the privacy/security systems 31701, 31702 can enable a user to select and control existing sensors or inputs to a vehicle's control system (shown as system control 31715). In some embodiments, the privacy/security systems 31701, 31702 can enable a user to select and control and/or disconnect existing outputs from a vehicle's control system (shown as system control 31710). Further, in some embodiments, the privacy/security systems 31701, 31702 can activate/connect one or more backup systems, including blocking access to non-critical systems or those that provide a route for malware (e.g., such as entertainment systems, voice/data communications, remote keyless entry systems, etc. In some embodiments, the privacy/security system 31702 can include backup control systems that comprise protected non-networked systems with no remote access, and base configurations not capable of being modified without physically interaction with the systems. In some embodiments, the various mechanical, electrical, and electromechanical systems that can be protected and controlled includes, but is not limited to, night vision systems, a heads-up display, driver alertness monitoring, instrument cluster, accident recorder, event data recorder, auto-dimming mirror, interior lighting, active cabin noise suppression, voice/data communications, cabin environmental controls, dedicated short-range communication systems (dsrc), entertainment systems, battery management, lane correction systems, electronic toll collection systems, digital turn signals, navigation systems, security system, active exhaust noise suppression, active suspension, hill-hold control, regenerative braking, antilock braking, tire pressure monitoring, parking system, electronic stability control, active yaw control, seat control position, transmission control, lane departure warning, blindspot detection, remote keyless entry, onboard diagnostics, active vibration control, cylinder de-activation, idle stop/start, electronic valve timing, electronic throttle control, electric power steering, automatic braking, adaptive cruise control, adaptive front lighting, airbag deployment, engine control, parental controls, and windshield wiper control
In reference to
Although cars did not have engine control modules for the first 80-90 years after the gasoline engine was invented, cars today would not be able to meet modern fuel efficiency and emissions requirements without them. Improvements in engine control algorithms, data collection, and data communication continue to be a major reason that cars are more efficient and less polluting with each new model year. Some vehicles allow the driver to make trade-offs between power and fuel economy by simply activating a switch that causes the ECM to run different engine control subroutines. There are also various programmable ECMs that are available to give car enthusiasts a great deal of control over how their engine will perform in various situations.
Today's ECMs generally employ 32-bit microcontrollers with a few megabytes of memory clocked at speeds between 32 MHz and 100 MHz. They generally communicate with other electronic modules using one or more CAN bus interfaces. In cases where the engine control function and the transmission control function are combined in the same module, the module is generally referred to as a powertrain control module (PCM). Various sensors that can be controlled include the pedal position sensor, throttle valve position sensor, engine oil temperature sensor, oxygen sensor, induction air temperature sensor, EGR sensor, oil pressure sensor, fuel level sensor, wheel speed sensor, torque sensor, knock sensor, air flow sensor, crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor, manifold absolute pressure sensor, coolant temperature sensor. Other systems that can be controlled directly or indirectly include actuators, fuel injectors, spark plugs, EGR valve, fuel tank venting, cooling fan, starter motor, throttle position motor, check engine light, and data communications.
Power steering systems supplement the torque that the driver applies to the steering wheel. Traditional power steering systems are hydraulic systems, but electric power steering (EPS) is becoming much more common. EPS eliminates many HPS components such as the pump, hoses, fluid, drive belt, and pulley. For this reason, electric steering systems tend to be smaller and lighter than hydraulic systems. EPS systems have variable power assist, which provides more assistance at lower vehicle speeds and less assistance at higher speeds. They do not require any significant power to operate when no steering assistance is required. For this reason, they are more energy efficient than hydraulic systems. The EPS electronic control unit (ECU) calculates the assisting power needed based on the torque being applied to the steering wheel by the driver, the steering wheel position and the vehicle's speed. The EPS motor rotates a steering gear with an applied force that reduces the torque required from the driver. There are four forms of EPS based on the position of the assist motor. They are the column assist type (C-EPS), the pinion assist type (P-EPS), the direct drive type (D-EPS) and the rack assist type (R-EPS). The C-EPS type has a power assist unit, torque sensor, and controller all connected to the steering column. In the P-EPS system, the power assist unit is connected to the steering gear's pinion shaft. This type of system works well in small cars. The D-EPS system has low inertia and friction because the steering gear and assist unit are a single unit. The R-EPS type has the assist unit connected to the steering gear. R-EPS systems can be used on mid- to full-sized vehicles due to their relatively low inertia from high reduction gear ratios. Unlike a hydraulic power steering system that continuously drives a hydraulic pump, the efficiency advantage of an EPS system is that it powers the EPS motor only when necessary. This results in reduced vehicle fuel consumption compared to the same vehicle with an HPS system. These systems can be tuned by simply modifying the software controlling the ECU. This provides a unique and cost effective opportunity to adjust the steering “feel” to suit the automotive model class. An additional advantage of EPS is its ability to compensate for one-sided forces such as a flat tire. It is also capable of steering in emergency maneuvers in conjunction with the electronic stability control.
In current-day systems, there is always a mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the steering gear. For safety reasons, it is important that a failure in the electronics never result in a situation where the motor prevents the driver from steering the vehicle. EPS systems incorporate fail-safe mechanisms that disconnect power from the motor in the event that a problem with the ECU is detected. The next step in electronic steering is to remove the mechanical linkage to the steering wheel and convert to pure electronically controlled steering, which is referred to as steer-by-wire. This functions by transmitting digital signals to one or more remote electric motors instead of a rack and pinion assembly, which in-turn steers the vehicle. While it has been used in electric forklifts and some tractors, as well as a handful of concept cars. In the event that a problem is detected with the electronic controls, a clutch engages to restore the driver's mechanical control. As with throttle control systems, it is likely that steer-by-wire will become the standard once the electronic controls prove to be safer and more reliable than the current hybrid systems. Any of the above mentioned vehicle control system can be access, selected, controlled, and protected using the privacy/security systems 31701, 31702.
Referring to
In some further embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure 32000 can comprise a back-pack structure. For example, referring to
Referring to
Some embodiments of the invention can be designed to integrate with common consumer household or office products such as jackets or other forms of clothing, purses, handbags, backpacks and briefcases, chairs, couches, kitchen counters, car consoles, seats, dashboards or doors, tables, desks, drawers and/or bed stands/night tables amongst others. In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can be integrated in such a way that it is not visible to an outside observer. Some embodiments can be integrated into purses and other aforementioned products such that the privacy/security enclosure appears to be integrated into the surface of the product or so that when the purse or other such product is opened, the user can have access to the privacy/security enclosure into which they can place their phone, tablet or other electronic device, in any case at which point that once the privacy/security enclosure is engaged, it can then provide on or more of the protective masking, obfuscation, minimizing, jamming, blocking and/or other privacy/security features via the systems and methods described herein.
Some embodiments include box or cabinet type privacy/security enclosures. For example,
Some embodiments include privacy/security enclosure specific to office or executive spaces. For example,
Some embodiments include a privacy/security enclosure integrated into a desk or other type of furniture or decoration of a room (e.g., such as a boardroom). For example,
In some embodiments of the invention, using any of the privacy/security enclosures disclosed here, remote or wireless access to internal electronics such as chips, microprocessors, microcontrollers, memory, storage, PCB boards and other such electronic components, devices or assemblies can be prevented, thereby decreasing the likelihood or ease by which the invention can be hacked, accessed or controlled remotely. In some embodiments of the invention, the use of microprocessors, microcontrollers or other electronic components that have features such as one-time write, read restrictions, that encrypt, lock or otherwise secure or obfuscate their software, firmware or other command/configuration information can be used to prevent or increase the difficulty of hacking, modifying or changing the intended operation and/or functionality of the invention. In some embodiments of the invention, direct, remote, RF, wired or wireless access to electronic component can be prevented or made more difficult by the use of Faraday cages, by the omission of RF transceivers or other connecting or networking capabilities, by the elimination, exclusion or reduction of functionality of internal or external ports that might provide access to electronic components, by the clipping, removal or otherwise destroying or tampering with some or all pins or pathways that can allow software or firmware updates, by soldering, gluing, covering with a foreign material or other technique to make it difficult to remove or change chips, PCB boards or electronic components, or by the combination of some or all of these and other techniques. In some embodiments of the invention, with the potential of increasing the cost or ability to diagnose, repair, replace or reuse some or all of the components, the ability or ease by which some embodiments of the invention can be opened and/or internal components or features can be accessed can be reduced or made more difficult through the use of techniques such as one way connectors, tabs or other such features, the use of ultrasonic welding or other such manufacturing techniques or the obfuscation or hiding of assembly features, any or all of which capabilities can provide for the destruction or degradation of the embodiment's operation or performance or can result in a user being more readily aware that an attempt (successful or unsuccessful) has been made to open or tamper with the embodiment and/or its features or capabilities.
In some embodiments of the invention, any of the privacy/security enclosures disclosed herein can act as a security token for the user to use as part of an authentication or login process with a website, network, computer or other device or facility desiring such a level of authenticated access. For example, in some embodiments of the invention, when a user wants to login to a secure website, device, software, network or facility, a code can be generated by the privacy/security device/enclosure that is required to be provide in order to login or access the desired website, device, software, network or facility. In other embodiments of the invention, communication to or from the enclosed device can be monitored and/or passed, verified, changed, blocked or redirected based on criteria, rules or algorithms either pre-loaded or downloaded (and occasionally or periodically updated if or when desired) on the privacy/security enclosure. In yet other embodiments of the invention, data, voice or video traffic can be encrypted or decrypted by the privacy/security enclosure prior to transmission or on receipt or at some other such time as fits within the desired security profile.
In some embodiments of the invention, one or more microphones can be used to detect and/or capture audio content reaching the privacy/security enclosure, which audio content can then be repeated or replayed, with or without a delay, on one or more speakers/audio drivers included in the enclosure. In some embodiments of the invention, full or partially sealed pathways can be provided from each of one or more speakers/audio drivers to one more or all of the microphone or microphones within an enclosed device or devices. In some embodiments of the invention, sealed pathways may not be used and repeated or replayed sound can be broadcast to the interior or exterior of the enclosure, uncontained by such pathways/seals.
In some embodiments, installation of the privacy/security enclosure can include installation to the user's device so that external audio energy from the external environment is reduced, attenuated or changed. In some embodiments, the installation can include techniques including various conventional seals and sound isolating techniques. In some embodiments, the protected device(s)′ microphone(s) can be partially or fully isolated from external audio excitation using compressive materials used to form a seal. Novel structures or baffles or tortuous paths can be used in some embodiments to help reduce or eliminate external audio energy from reaching the protected device(s)′ microphone(s).
In some embodiments of the invention, one or more seals can remain in position while in other embodiments of the invention one or more seals can be moveable, sealing and unsealing at different points in time. In some embodiments of the invention, the ability to seal and/or unseal and/or the ability to play/direct masking noise or changed/manipulated/processed audio content to one or more microphones of enclosed devices can be available on a microphone by microphone basis. In other embodiments, it can be available for combinations or all microphones together. In some embodiments of the invention, different audio content (e.g., pass-through, noise, modified, processed, manipulated or otherwise changed content) can be played for different microphones at the same time, while in other embodiments of the invention, similar or the same content can be played at the same time. In some embodiments of the invention, a conventional mechanical or electro-mechanical mechanism can be used to apply one or more seals to its mated surface. In some embodiments of the invention, differing compression levels can be used for one or more seals, even if applied by a conventional mechanism, in order to more effectively deliver the desired functionality (e.g., audio masking, delivering audio content, reduced obtrusiveness, external audio attenuation etc.)
In some embodiments of the invention, seals and/or sealed pathways/channels can be used to more effectively deliver audio content to one or more microphones of enclosed device in order to attenuate broadcast audio content and/or to attenuate external audio content. In some embodiments of the invention, the seals can comprise neoprene or other compliant material. As illustrated in
In some embodiments of the invention, the audio content captured by the privacy/security enclosure's microphone(s) can be blocked, attenuated, amplified, changed, obfuscated, distorted, filtered, replaced or otherwise modified at, before or during the time it is captured, played, broadcast or transmitted, if it is played, broadcast or transmitted at all by the one or more speakers/audio drivers included in the enclosure.
In some embodiments of the invention, the audio content from the one or more microphones may not be transmitted or replayed/rebroadcast by the one or more speakers/audio drivers in the enclosure, but rather one or more masking signals can be broadcast by the one or more speakers/audio drivers in the system, with one such effect being that it can be more difficult to determine audio content other than the masking signal(s) from recordings or content captured by one or more microphones in any device or devices protected by the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments of the invention, the masking signal can be deterministic, while in others it can be truly random or pseudo-random, and in one or more of these examples, the frequency of the masking/jamming signal(s) can be tuned or filtered to a profile such as white, blue, pink, gray or some other such noise or frequency profile as described herein.
In some embodiments of the invention, the user can activate, deactivate, tune or change the level, volume, power or capabilities of the electronic audio repeating and/or masking/jamming capability through the use of switches, buttons or other such physical interface included in or with the enclosure, while in other embodiments of the invention, such features or capabilities can be activated, deactivated, tuned or changed by movements, motion, remote control(s) such as RF, infrared, or other wired or wireless technology or sound such as a spoken keyword or phrase. In some embodiments of the invention, the use of electronic audio repeating, manipulation and/or jamming, masking, attenuating or blocking can provide features or capabilities beyond just audio protection, but can include features such as amplification, audio enhancement, noise or echo canceling, audio mixing and other forms of audio manipulation to name a few.
In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can be designed such that if power is lost, audio content can no longer be clearly rebroadcast//transferred to the desired microphone, but rather physical characteristics of the enclosure such as sealed pathways and others can result in a noticeable difference in audio quality, detectable by an average listener. For example, in some embodiments of the invention, if a user desires protection of the enclosure and a hacker or other party accidentally or intentionally eliminates power, and/or plugs, blocks or degrades one or more speakers/audio drivers, damages one or more seals or other physical aspects of the enclosure, or otherwise degrades the enclosure's audio jamming/masking/protective capability, the user can detect the reduction or elimination of protection during an audio call with another party. The other party can identify a change to the enclosure's protection because the audio clarity of the conversation can be degraded or different when compared to the audio quality provided when the enclosure is operating correctly. Such degradation or other audio clarity change can be accomplished using proprietary techniques described herein or a variety of techniques well-known to one of ordinary skill in the art.
In some embodiments of the invention, microphone(s) included with the enclosure can be placed such that they are directional can be of higher or lower quality than microphone(s) in the protected device(s). Alternatively, they can include capabilities or features that increase or decrease audio performance when compared to that provided by the enclosed or protected device(s) native microphone(s). In other embodiments of the invention, the transfer function of recorded and replayed audio content can be changed, can be different, or can be optimized for performance in different environments, settings or conditions, for different times of day or for different/varying speakers (e.g. male, female, young, old, loud or soft-spoken individuals, accents etc.). In other embodiments of the invention, the transfer function of recorded and replayed audio content can be changed, distorted, replaced, translated or otherwise modified for various purposes including, but not limited to, protection, communication, fun, novelty or performance.
In some embodiments of the invention, when the privacy/security enclosure's protection is activated, the embedded microphone(s) are disabled or are otherwise prevented from delivering any usable detected, captured or recorded audio content. In some embodiments, this can be achieved by techniques such as eliminating power or turning off/deactivating, disregarding any content detected or captured, physically or electronically disconnecting or blocking any path(s) to any associated speaker/audio driver, or by other conventional methods.
In some embodiments of the invention, the use of electronic audio repeating, manipulation and/or jamming, masking, attenuating or blocking can result in benefits such as reduced cost to design and manufacture, reduced assembly complexity, reduction or elimination of moving parts, increased cycle life, durability, repeatability and control, reduced size/weight and other such benefits when compared to purely mechanical methods of attenuating, blocking or jamming/masking audio content or applying such capabilities to microphone(s) contained by protected device(s).
Some embodiments of the invention can integrate and connect with software running on enclosed or other device(s), communicating via wired or wireless connections. For example, in some embodiments of the invention, a connection to an enclosed smartphone via wireless or wired connection to a data port can allow interaction with a mobile app to provide any of numerous functions, including private or secured messaging and communications, secure token capabilities, monitoring and manipulation or protection of data and data transmissions etc. In some embodiments of the invention, one or more totally dedicated and independent set of mechanical and electrical/electronic components (e.g., microprocessors, microcontrollers, memory, storage etc.) and/or pathways between such electrical/electronic and/or mechanical components can exist to provide a certain set of features, functions and/or interactions. In some embodiments of the invention, the existence of such isolated and dedicated components and pathways can eliminate, minimize or reduce the risk or ability of accidental or intentional manipulation, reduction or elimination of one set of features or capabilities by any individual, software or hardware interacting with, accessing or using another.
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can mount directly or through a clamping interface. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can be positioned on the user's device so that the internal microphones are covered and sealed from the external audio environment. In some embodiments, privacy/security enclosure can include microphone transducers to sense the external audio environment and electronics to process captured sound as needed. The device can also be used with laptops, tablets and devices that contain cameras, microphones or other such sensors). In some embodiments, the extension of privacy/security can comprise isolating audio and/or video from the user's device. In some embodiments, the level of privatization can be partial in that some components or devices of a user's device remain non-private and others are private. For example, in some embodiments, a movable portion or section of the privacy/security enclosure can be moved with respect to another portion or section of the privacy/security enclosure to cover and make private a webcam but leave open a microphone.
In some embodiments, removing power from the privacy/security enclosure can turn off the capture and/or rebroadcast of audio content, resulting in a detectable change on the quality, fidelity, volume, clarity or other such sound characteristic when engaging in phone calls or any other microphone application, with such change providing an additional level of security on the system operation as the change can indicate the loss of power, intentional or otherwise.
In some embodiments, plugging, disabling, damaging, changing or blocking a privacy/security enclosure's speaker(s) or broadcast pathway can reduce, attenuate or even effectively eliminate the protected device(s)′ audio capture, effectively disabling or impacting audio applications of a protected device(s). In some embodiments, damaging or changing a privacy/security enclosure seal can cause a noticeable audible anomaly by introducing a separate and time-different input to the user's device microphone (e.g., an echo).
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can provide an option for using a forward or other directionally directed microphone(s) for better audio coupling as compared to the microphone(s) native to the protected device(s). Further, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure electronics can be used to optimally shape the microphone/speaker transfer function. In some embodiments, the electronic privacy/security enclosure device can be more slender than a manually controlled privacy/security device and can be mechanically coupled to the protected device.
Referring to
Some embodiments of the invention include methods to determine the functional status of the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, an application running on a user's computer or other protected device can connect to the protected device's microphone output(s) and measure the signal level(s). In some embodiments, the amplifier to the privacy/security enclosure speaker(s) can be turned off (via a user interface element) so that no sound is emitted by the privacy/security enclosure speaker(s). The protected device's application can “listen” to the output of the device's microphone(s) while outputting audio through the device's speaker. In some embodiments, if the signal measured by the device's microphone is below a predetermined threshold, the mechanical seal of the privacy/security enclosure is properly blocking external audio from the device's microphone(s). The user can be alerted to proper isolation by the device's application.
In some further embodiments, a second and/or third or more microphone(s) can be installed inside the privacy/security enclosure. If the privacy/security enclosure is properly sealed, the extra microphone outputs can be compared to a predetermined threshold within the privacy/security enclosure electronics. In some embodiments, if this threshold is not exceeded, the privacy/security enclosure is determined to be properly sealed. In some further embodiments, the output from the extra microphone(s) can be altered by an electronic filter or signal processing algorithm within the privacy/security enclosure electronics so that the audio signal(s) from the extra microphone(s) can be optimized versus the predetermined threshold used for determining the effectiveness of the mechanical isolation seal. Some other embodiments can include the privacy/security microphone(s) sampling the external environment as a trigger for determining when to sample the threshold comparison described above.
Referring to
Another example embodiment is shown in
In some embodiments, any protected device's microphone(s) can be mechanically isolated to some extent from external audio sources via a mechanical seal, and a small speaker (e.g., such as a hearing aid speaker) can be placed inside the mechanical seal, tightly coupled to the protected device's microphone(s). In some embodiments, speaker drive electronics can be used to send an audio signal to each privacy/security enclosure speaker. Further, in some embodiments, the driver circuit can be used to send a pink, white or other noise signal to the speakers. In some embodiments, this noise signal can be enabled and the microphone is disabled when the user selects to block/reduce audio by masking some or all of any remaining external audio not blocked by mechanical seals from reaching the protected device's microphone or microphones.
In some embodiments of the invention, one or more microphones in the privacy/security enclosure can be exposed to the external environment. In some embodiments, these microphones can be enabled when the user chooses to allow the protected device's microphone(s) to listen to the external environment. In some embodiments, when enabled, the signal from the privacy/security microphone is amplified such that it can drive the speaker or speakers described above.
In some embodiments of the invention, the output signal from the microphone can be electronically filtered by frequency to either enhance or equalize the frequency response of the system when played through one or more speakers as described above. In some embodiments, the enhancement or equalization can compensate for the frequency response of the speaker. In one embodiment, this compensation can cancel out speaker resonance so that overall system frequency response from microphone input to speaker output is equalized as closely as possible to a generally flat spectrum or some other such desired profile within a certain frequency range. In some embodiments of the invention, output from microphone(s) and/or outputs from signal filtering or other form of change/manipulation to the output of a microphone(s) can be de-amplified before being sent to a speaker for broadcast in order improve the quality of the audio picked up by the targeted microphone. Playing the speaker at low volume can facilitate the ability of a closely coupled microphone(s) to get a good signal and not overwhelm, saturate or otherwise negatively impact the quality of such detected/recorded signal.
In some embodiments, power to the privacy/security enclosure can be provided using a USB cord from the privacy/security enclosure connected to an AC/DC USB power block at an AC outlet and to a USB power compatible input on privacy/security enclosure. Alternatively, the privacy/security enclosure can be powered via a USB port on the computer or associated device (or via a standalone USB power block). In some embodiments, plugging in the USB cable can automatically turn on the unit. Alternatively, the unit can be turned on or latched on via a pushbutton.
Some further embodiments include a disposable lithium coin cell used to power the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, a rechargeable battery can be used to power the privacy/security enclosure. In some embodiments, this battery can be of any standard rechargeable battery type. In some embodiments, a single-celled lithium ion battery can be used. Further, a USB cable can be used to provide charging power to the privacy/security enclosure.
Some embodiments of the invention include privacy/security enclosures that enable DC power pass-through while maintaining a highly functional Faraday cage. For example,
In some embodiments of the invention, the capacitors of the circuit as shown are a short circuit to high frequencies such as frequencies above about 1 MHz, and the inductors (the ferrite beads) are high impedance to those high frequencies. Consequently, in some embodiments, the high frequencies have a low impedance path to the case and high impedance to pass through. Moreover, the chambered design as shown (similar to forming two small Faraday cages) can protect the wires from picking up RF radiation, while the direct current flow has a low impedance through (i.e., when powering a device) and a high impedance to the case.
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can enable charging of one or more batteries within the privacy/security enclosure with a functioning Faraday cage. Further, some embodiments also enable charging of batteries of one or more enclosed devices within the privacy/security enclosure or enclosure. Moreover, in some embodiments, charging of one or more batteries in the privacy/security enclosure and one or more batteries of at least one enclosed device can occur substantially at the same time. In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure can comprise one or more charging conductors or wires that pass through the Faraday cage of the privacy/security enclosure for purposes such as charging or communicating. While charging, the Faraday cage remains functional (i.e., the conductor or wire pass-through does not significantly alter the protection/attenuation provided by the Faraday cage relative to the targeted level of attenuation/protection). Further, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure or enclosure can comprise at least one charging conductor or wire that passes through the Faraday cage that do not require a user to connect and disconnect separate leads on the inside and/or outside of the privacy/security enclosure.
Some embodiments include a system and method for alerting the user that the coin cell needs to be replaced or that a battery needs to be recharged. For example, in some embodiments, alerting the user to replace the coin cell can include a blinking red LED. The illumination of the LED can be modified to conserve battery power (e.g., the blink on time can be short and the blink repetition rate can be slow to conserve the remaining battery power when the system is in the low battery state.)
In some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosure can interact with hardware and/or software components of the device to block, attenuate, reduce, confuse, distort, transform, encrypt, delete, amplify, increase, add or append to, remove, change, mask or otherwise impact or modify energy levels, settings and/or data or information residing on or being sent to or from the protected or enclosed device(s). For example, in some embodiments of the invention, power can be drained from one or more of the enclosure's batteries periodically by sharing or transferring to or from one or more batteries that are part of enclosed or protected device(s) and/or batteries within the enclosed device(s). In some embodiments, the power transfer, drainage or extraction can occur at varying rates and/or at different power levels to prevent or confuse identification or fingerprinting of the protected device(s) via it's battery charge levels, rate of discharge, or other battery related statistic or information. In some other embodiments of the invention, gyroscopes, accelerometers, or any other sensor can be similarly protected via features or capabilities of the privacy/security enclosure by itself or in conjunction with the protected device(s) and/or hardware or software that is a part of or is working with the protected or enclosed device(s).
In some embodiments of the invention, when the privacy/security enclosure has more than one device enclosed, differential protection can be provided based on the location or type of enclosed device and/or protection can be provided between enclosed devices. For example, in some embodiments of the invention, a “high security” portion of the enclosure can be provided while other portions of the enclosure provide a lower level of privacy/security. Other embodiments of the invention can include multiple internal chambers, partitions or sections, each with some or all of the protective features of the others. Some further embodiments of the invention can include protection between the chambers, partitions or sections, with Faraday cages attenuating RF access between one or more sections being just one non-limiting example.
In some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure 34811 can enable a first user 34850 to use or access the device 34810, and the privacy/security enclosure 34861 can enable a second user 34855 to use or access the device 34860. Further, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure 34811 can enable a second user 34855 to use or access the device 34810, and the privacy/security enclosure 34861 can enable a first user 34855 to use or access the device 34860.
In some embodiments of the invention, the device 34810 and/or the device 34860 can comprise a mobile communication device such as a phone or smart phone. In other embodiments, the device 34810 and/or device 34860 can comprise a computer tablet, laptop, PDA, and/or a wearable computer and/or communication device.
In some embodiments of the invention, the devices 34810, 34860 can be the same device and/or the same brand or manufacturer (e.g., both devices 34810, 34860 can be a smart phone and/or both devices 34810, 34860 can be the same make and model of smart phone). In other embodiments, the devices 34810, 34860 can be different types of brands and/or devices (e.g., one of the devices 34810, 34860 can comprise a smart phone, and one of the devices 34810, 34860 can comprise a laptop). In some embodiments, devices 34810, 34860 can comprise at least one microphone for sensing sound and at least one sound generator (e.g., such as a speaker) for generating sound. The devices 34810, 34860 can also include associated circuitry and/or drivers for generating and transmitting a signal based at least in part on signals received by their respective microphones. Further, the devices 34810, 34860 can also include associated circuitry and/or drivers that can generate sound through their respective speakers based at least in part on a signal from their associated circuitry.
In some embodiments of the invention, one or more microphones of protected devices 34810, 34860 can be covered and/or partially or substantially fully sealed by embodiments of the privacy/security enclosure 34811, 34861 described herein. Further, in some embodiments of the invention, the privacy/security enclosures 34811, 34861 can include one or more speakers and drivers that can be coupled to one or more of the protected device's microphones. Further, the one or more speakers and drivers can form part of the protective system of the privacy/security enclosures 34811, 34861 for various purposes, including playing modified or unmodified voice and data content among others. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure 34811 can comprise at least one speaker 34819 and associated driver, and the privacy/security enclosure 34861 can comprise at least one speaker 34887 and associated driver.
In some embodiments of the invention, one or more microphones can be included as part of the protective system. Further, in some embodiments, one or more microphone(s) can be logically and/or physically coupled and/or associated to one or more of the microphones and/or speakers/drivers that are part of a protected device. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosure 34811 can comprise microphones 34813, 34832, and the privacy/security enclosure 34861 can comprise microphones 34870, 34883. In some embodiments of the invention, audio content can be captured by any of the privacy/security enclosures 34811, 34861, and can be amplified, modified, changed, encrypted, tuned, filtered, processed or otherwise manipulated prior to being sent, transferred or transmitted to one or more speakers/drivers of the privacy/security enclosures 34811, 34861. For example, in some embodiments, the privacy/security enclosures 34811, 34861 can include hardware and/or software to capture an audio content and/or signal and to encode and/or decode a signal.
In some embodiments, sound, such as a user's voice, can be encoded or decoded. For example, in reference to the privacy/security enclosure 34811, in some embodiments, the microphone 34813 can be coupled to a circuit 34817, and the microphone 34832 can be coupled to a circuit 34834. In some embodiments, the circuit 34817 can comprise an encoder. Further, in some embodiments, the circuit 34834 can comprise a decoder. Further, in reference to the privacy/security enclosure 34861, in some embodiments, the microphone 34870 can be coupled to a circuit 34872, and the microphone 34883 can be coupled to a circuit 34885. In some embodiments, the circuit 34872 can comprise an encoder. Further, in some embodiments, the circuit 34835 can comprise a decoder.
In some embodiments, vocal and/or sound communication from a first user 34850 can be encoded by the privacy/security enclosures 34811 and the vocal and/or sound communication from a second user 34855 can be encoded by the privacy/security enclosures 34861. Further, in some embodiments, vocal and/or sound communication from a first user 34850 can be decoded by the privacy/security enclosure 34861, and the vocal and/or sound communication from a second user 34855 can be decoded by the privacy/security enclosure 34811. In some embodiments, audio content can be captured by at least one of the devices 34810, 34861, and can be processed and/or transmitted based at least in part on one or more encryption seeds or keys. For example, in some embodiments, sound can be picked up by at least one of the devices 34810, 34861, processed into a signal, wirelessly transmitted as an encoded signal to at least one of the devices 34810, 34861, processed into a signal, and processed by decoding into audio content by at least one of the devices 34810, 34861. In other embodiments, the sound can be picked up by at least one of the devices 34810, 34861, processed into a signal and transmitted by direct or wired connection as an encoded signal to at least one of the devices 34810, 34861.
Referring to the privacy/security enclosure 34811, in some embodiments, the microphone 34813 can pick up or sense sound from a first user 34850. A signal from the microphone 34813 can pass through circuit 34817, and circuit 34817 can process the signal and pass a signal to speaker 34819. In some embodiments, the signal from the microphone 34813 can be processed by the circuit 34817 to an encoded signal, and the encoded signal can be passed to speaker 34819. The speaker 34819 can produce a sound based on the encoded signal. Based at least in part on the positional relationship between the device 34810 and the speaker 34819, in some embodiments, the sound produced by the speaker 34819 can be picked up or sensed by a microphone of the device 34810. The device 34810 can transmit a signal or receive a signal. For example, the device can transmit a signal 34821 or receive a transmitted signal 34830. In some embodiments, the transmitted signal 34821 can be based on the encoded signal passed to speaker 34819 and picked up by a microphone of the device 34810.
Referring to device 34860 and the privacy/security enclosure 34861, in some embodiments, the received signal 34880 can comprise or can be based at least in part on the transmitted signal 34821. In some embodiments, the received signal 34880 can be processed by the device 34860 and transmitted as sound through a speaker of the device 34860. In some embodiments, sound emitted by the device 34860, based at least in part on the received signal 34880, can be picked up or sensed by the microphone 34883 of the privacy/security enclosure 34861. In some embodiments of the invention, a signal from the microphone 34883 based at least in part on the received signal 34880 can be broadcast as sound from the speaker 34887. In some embodiments, a second user 34855 can receive the sound.
Referring to the privacy/security enclosure 34861, in some embodiments, the microphone 34870 can pick up or sense sound from a second user 34855. A signal from the microphone 34870 can pass through circuit 34872, and circuit 34872 can process the signal by encoding and pass a signal to speaker 34873. In some embodiments, the signal from the microphone 34870 can be processed by the circuit 34872 to an encoded signal, and the encoded signal can be passed to speaker 34873. The speaker 34873 can produce a sound based on the encoded signal. Based at least in part on the positional relationship between the device 34860 and the speaker 34873, in some embodiments, the sound produced by the speaker 34873 can be picked up or sensed by a microphone of the device 34860. The device 34860 can transmit a signal or receive a signal. For example, the device 34860 can transmit a signal 34875 or receive a transmitted signal 34880. In some embodiments, the transmitted signal 34875 can be based on the encoded signal passed to speaker 34873 and picked up by a microphone of the device 34860.
Referring to device 34810 and the privacy/security enclosure 34811, in some embodiments, the received signal 34830 can comprise or can be based at least in part the transmitted signal 34875. In some embodiments, the received signal 34830 can be processed by the device 34810 and transmitted as sound through a speaker of the device 34810. In some embodiments, sound emitted by the device 34860, based at least in part on the received signal 34880, can be picked up or sensed by the microphone 34832 of the privacy/security enclosure 34810. In some embodiments of the invention, a signal from the microphone 34832 based at least in part on the received signal 34830 can be broadcast as sound from the speaker 34836 after being decoded by circuit 34834. In some embodiments, a first user 34850 can receive the sound.
In some embodiments of the invention, the encoding and decoding by any one of the circuits 34817, 34834, 34872, 34885 can be performed using encryption seeds or keys. In some embodiments, the encryption seeds or keys can be generated by a random or by a pseudo-random number generator. In some further embodiments of the invention, one or more encryption seeds or keys can be generated from noise that is read, measured and/or captured from one or more electrical or electronic components within the privacy/security enclosure 34811, 34861. Some embodiments can provide truly random key generation, thereby enhancing security.
In some embodiments of the invention, various sounds and/or different types of noise can be broadcast, played or directed via or outside of any sealed path that may or may not exist to one or more of the protected device's microphone(s). For example, in some embodiments of the invention, a masking signal can be used that comprises a deterministic, random, pseudo-random, white, gray, blue, pink, filtered, and/or shaped signal etc. In some embodiments, the frequency of the masking signal can be tuned or filtered to a white, blue, pink, gray or some other such noise or frequency profile as described herein.
In some embodiments of the invention, the source and/or seed for random and/or other audio, actuator or other such masking signal(s) can be electrical components (such as a diode and/or the thermal noise of a resistor). In some embodiments of the invention, the protective system can provide the seed or key for encryption or processing systems running on or with a protected device. In some embodiments, the key can be provided by any number of communication pathways between the protective system and the protected device, including wired (data and power ports and jacks etc.) and wireless communication capabilities (WiFi, Bluetooth, NFC/RFID, etc.) In some embodiments of the invention, the use of an external (to a protected device) seed or key, can serve to enhance the security of voice or data communications of the protected device, including communication methods such as SMS, texting, chatting, web browsing, file transmission, and any other such communication. In some embodiments of the invention, companion software to the protective system can provide such basic, secure communication capability, including secure messaging, chatting, browsing picture and video viewing and/or sharing etc.
In some embodiments of the invention, the seed or source can be amplified in order to reach a desired level of protection. In some embodiments of the invention, the seed, amplified and/or unamplified, can be filtered and/or sculpted to a more desired noise profile for the audio or other such masking signal (e.g. a blue, pink, gray, white and/or other such profile as described above) which can provide desired characteristics for one or more specific purposes, including, but not limited to lower power consumption and/or more effective masking for a similar/related level of protection against certain types of audio information (e.g. human speech and/or other types of audio information) when compared to other profiles.
In some embodiments of the invention, less obtrusive and/or noticeable noise profiles can be created by lowering the frequency components/content above certain frequency levels (e.g. varying and/or different frequency levels typically ranging anywhere from between 300 Hz to 3 kHz) when compared to noise profiles that haven't been filtered/sculpted and/or modified for such purposes. In some embodiments of the invention, the seed can be used as the seed for encryption key(s) and/or for generating the encryption key(s) for voice, data, video and/or other types of encryption implemented and/or supported by the privacy/security enclosure 34811, 34861 itself and/or by the hardware and/or software of device(s) protected by the privacy/security enclosures 34811, 34861.
In some embodiments of the invention, separate and/or distinct random audio masking signals can be used for each for each microphone on a device(s) protected by a privacy/security enclosure 34811, 34861, reducing the likelihood and/or ability of an authorized and/or unauthorized listener from subtracting and/or otherwise using one signal against another in order to extract and/or process and/or otherwise attempt to recover protected audio content. In some embodiments of the invention, the audio masking signal(s) can be a combination of different types of filtered/sculpted noise profiles or they can be a result of cycling through a variety of different noise signals.
In some embodiments of the invention, modified audio content (as described above including filtered, amplified, encrypted, tuned, processed etc., audio content) can be broadcast to one or more microphones of a protected device (e.g., devices 34810, 34860) while an aforementioned sound/noise signal can be concurrently played/broadcast/transmitted to one or more other microphones, with benefits of such an approach including, amongst other benefits, the ability to jam, mask or impede the ability of one or more microphones to detect or record audio content before or during the time that it is being modified/changed/encrypted/processed into a more secure format.
In some embodiments of the invention, the transmission and/or broadcast of modified audio content can be correlated with the spoken voice of a user or users of the protective system. In some embodiments of the invention, the aforementioned noise signals can be transmitted during times when there is no detected spoken audio content by the user or users of the protective system. In other embodiments, such transmissions can occur partially or solely when certain types of external audio content are detected. In some embodiments of the invention, the feature enabling the transmission of modified audio content can be activated and/or deactivated via a physical interaction with the user of the protective system while in other embodiments it can be contextually or automatically activated and/or deactivated.
In some embodiments of the invention, the attempted activation of the modified audio content feature can trigger a discovery and/or handshake and/or session establishment process with another protective system, such that secure communication between the systems can occur. In some embodiments of the invention, the handshake can occur over a data communication link and/or a voice and/or a video communication link.
In some embodiments of the invention, the receipt of modified audio content by one or more of the microphone(s) in the protective system can result in the transmission and/or rebroadcast of such content for playing, processing and/or decryption, which such further modified or simply passed audio content can then be played, broadcast or otherwise delivered to one or more users of the protective system. In some embodiments of the invention, when such content is being played/broadcast for a user or users of the protective system, concurrent transmission of sound/noise signals can be occurring to one or more of the microphones that are a part of a protected device.
In some embodiments of the invention, while protection is activated, one or more microphones that are part of a protected device (such as either of devices 34810, 34860) can be substantially continuously or semi-continuously jammed other than when protected audio content is transmitted to such a microphone.
In some embodiments of the invention, some or all audio content that is detected by any microphone of any one or both of the privacy/security enclosures 34811, 34861 and can be subsequently played by a speaker/driver of the privacy/security enclosures 34811, 34861 can be processed to enhance audio quality, fidelity, power or other characteristic through techniques such as filtering, amplification, noise reduction, echo cancellation and/or any other signal or audio optimization/processing technique. In some embodiments of the invention, the same audio content can be played on one or more speakers/drivers that are part of privacy/security enclosures 34811, 34861 for concurrent delivery to one or more microphones that are a part of the privacy/security enclosures 34811, 34861 and/or such that audio is available in different locations and/or with different characteristics/qualities in and around the privacy/security enclosures 34811, 34861.
In some embodiments of the invention, physical and/or automated volume controls can be used for within or as part of the protective system. In other embodiments of the invention, controls can be provided for selecting and/or tuning/changing the type or types of audio processing, encryption, distortion or modification that are possible for audio content.
In some embodiments of the invention, the end result of the processing, encryption, or change/modification to audio content can result in the creation of a data transmission between protected devices. In some embodiments, the transmission can occur via RF communication capabilities that are part of the protective system itself, or via the data transmission capabilities of a protected device(s). In some embodiments of the invention, communication with a protected device can occur via hard wired/physically networked/connected channels to a protected device including connections to data or power ports/jacks and other such means of physically accessing a protected device. In some embodiments of the invention, software running on a protected device can coordinate with or provide integral or supplemental functions to those provided by the protective system.
It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that while the invention has been described above in connection with particular embodiments and examples, the invention is not necessarily so limited, and that numerous other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications and departures from the embodiments, examples and uses are intended to be encompassed by the claims attached hereto. The entire disclosure of each patent and publication cited herein is incorporated by reference, as if each such patent or publication were individually incorporated by reference herein. Various features and advantages of the invention are set forth in the following claims.
This application claims priority from Provisional Application No. 62/048,173, filed on Sep. 9, 2014, Provisional Application No. 62/100,462, filed on Jan. 6, 2015, Provisional Application No. 62/161,759, filed on May 14, 2015, Provisional Application No. 62/195,903, filed on Jul. 23, 2015, Provisional Application No. 62/198,635, filed on Jul. 29, 2015, and Provisional Application No. 62/209,249, filed on Aug. 24, 2015, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
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