United States Patent Application |
20070174531
|
Kind Code
|
A1
|
Liberty; Joshua P.
|
July 26, 2007
|
Control docking unit
Abstract
A control docking unit configured to accept a portable processing unit and
provide alternate control operation of the portable processing unit. The
control docking unit can be configured to position a display on the
portable processing unit to facilitate use of one or more controls
provided on the control docking unit. The control docking unit can
position the display of the portable processing unit in a fixed or
variable position. The controls from the docking unit can be coupled to
the portable processing unit using an electrical, mechanical, or
electromechanical interface. The electrical interface can be a wired or
wireless communication link. The controls on the control docking unit can
be configured to be substantially in the same configuration as a control
unit for a similar fixed device. The portable processing unit can be
configured to provide additional functions, features, or enhanced
operation when coupled to the control docking unit.
Inventors: |
Liberty; Joshua P.; (Escondido, CA)
|
Correspondence Name and Address:
|
TOWNSEND AND TOWNSEND AND CREW, LLP
TWO EMBARCADERO CENTER
EIGHTH FLOOR
SAN FRANCISCO
CA
94111-3834
US
|
Assignee Name and Adress: |
Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.
Foster City
CA
|
Serial No.:
|
233275 |
Series Code:
|
11
|
Filed:
|
September 22, 2005 |
U.S. Current Class: |
710/303 |
U.S. Class at Publication: |
710/303 |
Intern'l Class: |
G06F 13/00 20060101 G06F013/00 |
Claims
1. A control docking apparatus, the apparatus comprising: a body portion;
a mechanical interface coupled to the body portion and configured to
couple to a portable processing unit; a control module having at least
one control positioned on the body portion; and a control interface
module coupled to the control module and configured to provide input to
the portable processing unit in response to operation of the at least one
control.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the body portion has substantially a
same dimension as a controller for a gaming console system.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mechanical interface comprises a
receptacle configured to receive at least a portion of the portable
processing unit.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mechanical interface comprises a
receptacle within the body portion and configured to receive at least a
portion of the portable processing unit.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mechanical interface comprises an
adjustable mount configured to allow reorienting of the portable
processing unit relative to the body portion.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mechanical interface comprises
means for adjusting an orientation of the portable processing unit
relative to the body portion.
7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mechanical interface comprises a
hinged mount.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mechanical interface comprises a
portion configured to obscure at least a portion of a user interface on
the portable processing unit.
9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mechanical interface comprises a
mount configured to allow user access to substantially all of a user
interface on the portable processing unit.
10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the control module comprises at
least one limiter configured to limit a mechanical travel of at least one
control.
11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the control module comprises a
keypad.
12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the control module comprises a
plurality of keypads positioned on the body portion to facilitate thumb
operation.
13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the control interface module
comprises a mechanical interface configured to couple an operation of a
control from the control module to a corresponding control positioned on
the portable processing unit.
14. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the control interface module
comprises an electrical interface configured to provide an electrical
signal to the portable processing unit in response to operation of the at
least one control.
15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the control interface module
comprises a wireless interface configured to transmit a wireless signal
to the portable processing unit in response to operation of the at least
one control.
16. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the wireless interface comprises a
wireless communication link selected from the group consisting of an RF
link, an optical link, an audio link, or a combination of RF, optical,
and audio links.
17. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the control interface module
comprises a receiver configured to couple one or more signals from the
portable processing unit to one or more modules of the control docking
apparatus.
18. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a haptic feed back module
coupled to the control interface module and configured to provide haptic
feedback to the control module.
19. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising at least one accessory
port coupled to the control interface module and configured to allow
coupling an external device with the portable processing unit.
20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the accessory port comprises at
least one receptacle positioned on the body portion and configured to
receive a wired connector.
21. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the accessory port comprises a
wireless receiver.
22. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a power supply module
configured to supply power to at least the control interface module.
23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the power supply module is
configured to supply power to the portable processing unit when the
portable processing unit is coupled to the control docking apparatus.
24. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the power supply module is
configured to receive power from the portable processing unit coupled to
the control docking apparatus and direct the power to at least the
control interface module.
25. A control docking apparatus, the apparatus comprising: a body portion
having dimensions similar to a control module for a gaming console
system; a mechanical interface coupled to the body portion and configured
to couple to a portable gaming platform; a control module having at least
one control positioned on the body portion; and a control interface
module coupled to the control module and configured to provide input to
the portable gaming platform in response to operation of the at least one
control.
26. A control docking apparatus, the apparatus comprising: a body portion;
means for coupling the body portion to a portable processing unit; means
for accepting user input positioned on the body portion; and means for
providing input to the portable processing unit in response to operation
of the means for accepting user input.
27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the means for providing input to
the portable processing unit comprises means for providing a wireless
signal to the portable processing unit.
28. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the means for providing input to
the portable processing unit comprises means for providing a mechanical
force to a control positioned on the portable processing unit.
29. The apparatus of claim 26, further comprising means for supplying
electrical power to the control docking apparatus.
30. A method of operating a portable processing unit, the method
comprising: initializing an application; determining a presence of a
control docking unit; and initializing docking unit controls in response
to determining the presence of the control docking unit.
31. The method of claim 30, further comprising initializing an enhanced
feature in the application in response to determining the presence of the
control docking unit.
32. The method of claim 30, wherein initializing the application
comprises: receiving an application selection; and receiving an
initialization instruction.
33. The method of claim 30, wherein initializing the application
comprises: receiving a removable memory module having the application
stored thereon; and initializing the application by accessing the memory
module.
34. The method of claim 30, wherein initializing the application
comprises: sensing a hot docking of the portable processing unit with the
control docking unit; and initializing the application upon sensing the
hot docking.
35. The method of claim 30, wherein determining the presence of the
control docking unit comprises determining the control docking unit is
present based on a mechanical interface between the portable processing
unit and the control docking unit.
36. The method of claim 30, wherein determining the presence of the
control docking unit comprises determining the control docking unit is
present based on an electrical process.
37. The method of claim 30, wherein determining the presence of the
control docking unit comprises: broadcasting a message indicating
presence of the portable processing unit; and receiving a response from
the control docking unit in response to the broadcast message.
38. The method of claim 30, wherein determining the presence of the
control docking unit comprises: querying a user of the presence of the
control docking unit; and receiving user response indicative of the
presence of the control docking unit.
39. The method of claim 30, wherein initializing docking unit controls
comprises initializing a wireless link communicating user input received
by the control docking unit.
40. The method of claim 30, wherein initializing docking unit controls
comprises configuring the application to accept user input received at
the control docking unit.
41. The method of claim 30, wherein initializing docking unit controls
comprises enabling one or more controls on the control docking unit.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] The continual advancement of computer processing power is evident
in the field of computer based gaming. Processor intensive video games
were once available only in standalone dedicated units manufactured for
use in arcades. As computer processing capabilities advanced, the price
of powerful processors and associated electronics such as memory,
interface chips, and displays, decreased to a level that allowed
processor based games to be produced for the consumer market.
[0002] Processor based games are commonly available for use in conjunction
with general purpose computers, such as a personal computer (PC).
Additionally, processor based games are commonly available for execution
on dedicated gaming platforms, commonly referred to a console systems.
More recently, processor based games are available for execution on
portable gaming platforms.
[0003] Portable processing units, such as portable gaming platforms, may
be miniaturized versions of console systems. Portable gaming platforms
can integrate substantially all of the functionality of console systems
in a small, portable form factor. Portable gaming platforms can include
one or more controls, and typically include a display. Other portable
processing units, such as handheld computing devices, cordless or
cellular telephones, and personal digital assistants typically have
limited gaming capabilities.
[0004] Arcade units are typically configured to provide a single game, and
are typically not easily reconfigurable. However, platforms such as
general purpose computers, console systems, and portable gaming platforms
typically can be reconfigured to perform different games merely by
executing different software. The software can be supplied on a disc,
magnetic media, memory, or some other storage media or combination of
storage media. The platforms can be reconfigured by executing the
software corresponding to the desired game.
[0005] As processor based games migrated from arcade units to console
systems, manufacturers of the console systems attempted to emulate the
arcade units by recreating the look and feel of the game. However,
because console games are configured to support multiple game
applications, the controllers associated with console games are typically
generic, and do not precisely duplicate the controls of arcade games.
[0006] Similarly, PCs typically operate using input devices such as a
keyboard in combination with a pointing device, such as a computer mouse.
Such input devices likely do not even remotely duplicate the controls
available on an arcade unit. However, PCs typically have one or more
input ports, which may be labeled as game ports, that can be configured
to accept accessories that can more closely resemble arcade unit
controls.
[0007] Console systems implement increasingly powerful processors and the
games or applications that can be executed on them become increasingly
complex. The progression of games does not follow the historic path of
arcade unit to console system. Indeed, the console system often
represents the original platform on which a game is played.
[0008] The most popular games are often reconfigured for execution on
portable processing units, and more particularly, on portable gaming
units. However, the small physical size of typically portable processing
units presents issues relating to duplicating the look and feel of games
that are originally designed for execution on a console system.
[0009] The portable gaming unit often dedicates a majority of the user
interface to a display unit. The user interface typically includes the
controls. However, because of space limitations, the controls of a
portable gaming unit often do not duplicate those found on a console
system or control accessories available for a PC. At the very least, the
controls of a portable gaming unit are physically smaller than controls
on the other gaming platforms. Often, different control sets are
implemented in to portable gaming units. Thus, it is difficult to
duplicate the player experience for a game ported from a console system
to a portable gaming unit.
[0010] Additionally, the controls of a portable gaming unit are typically
built into the unit and are not user serviceable. The controls of
portable gaming units typically are subjected to an intense working
cycle. However, the user is unable to purchase a new control accessory as
can be done for a typical console system.
[0011] The relationship of the controls to the display on a portable
gaming unit may not be optimized for many users. However, because the
position of the controls and display are fixed, the user is unable to
adjust the configuration for user preferences.
[0012] Therefore, there are many issues with portable gaming units that
are not found in console systems. However, as the processing power
available in portable gaming units improves, portable gaming units will
be able to execute increasingly complex applications. There is a strong
likelihood that such portable gaming units will continue to be popular.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0013] A control docking unit configured to accept a portable processing
unit and provide alternate control operation of the portable processing
unit. The control docking unit can be configured to position a display on
the portable processing unit to facilitate use of one or more controls
provided on the control docking unit. The control docking unit can
position the display of the portable processing unit in a fixed or
variable position. The controls from the docking unit can be coupled to
the portable processing unit using an electrical, mechanical, or
electromechanical interface. The electrical interface can be a wired or
wireless communication link. The controls on the control docking unit can
be configured to be substantially in the same configuration as a control
unit for a similar fixed device. The portable processing unit can be
configured to provide additional functions, features, or enhanced
operation when coupled to the control docking unit.
[0014] An embodiment of the invention includes a control docking unit that
includes a body portion and a mechanical interface coupled to the body
portion and configured to couple to a portable processing unit. The
control docking unit also includes a control module having at least one
control positioned on the body portion and a control interface module
coupled to the control module and configured to provide input to the
portable processing unit in response to operation of the at least one
control.
[0015] An embodiment of the invention includes a control docking unit that
includes a body portion having dimensions similar to a control module for
a gaming console system. The control docking unit also includes a
mechanical interface coupled to the body portion and configured to couple
to a portable gaming platform, a control module having at least one
control positioned on the body portion, and a control interface module
coupled to the control module and configured to provide input to the
portable gaming platform in response to operation of the at least one
control.
[0016] An embodiment of the invention includes a control docking unit that
includes a body portion, means for coupling the body portion to a
portable processing unit, means for accepting user input positioned on
the body portion, and means for providing input to the portable
processing unit in response to operation of the means for accepting user
input.
[0017] An embodiment of the invention includes a method of operating a
portable processing unit, that includes initializing an application,
determining a presence of a control docking unit, and initializing
docking unit controls in response to determining the presence of the
control docking unit. The method can also include initializing an
enhanced feature in the application in response to determining the
presence of the control docking unit.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] The features, objects, and advantages of embodiments of the
disclosure will become more apparent from the detailed description set
forth below when taken in conjunction with the drawings, in which like
elements bear like reference numerals.
[0019] FIGS. 1A-1D are simplified diagrams of embodiments of a portable
unit docked to a control docking unit.
[0020] FIG. 2 is a simplified block diagram of an embodiment of a control
docking unit with a portable unit.
[0021] FIG. 3 is a simplified flowchart of an embodiment of a method of
operating a portable unit coupled to a control docking unit.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[0022] A control docking unit and methods of operating a system with a
control docking unit are disclosed. The control docking unit can be
configured to accept a portable processing unit and provide a set of
alternate controls for the portable processing unit. In one embodiment,
the control portion of the docking unit can substantially duplicate the
controls associated with a distinct processing unit, such as a console
system.
[0023] The portable processing unit can mechanically couple to the control
docking unit using any of a variety of mechanical structures. For
example, the portable processing unit can mechanically couple to the
control docking unit using a physical interference, one or more
fasteners, clamps, brackets, and the like, or a combination of mechanical
couplings.
[0024] The controls of the control docking unit can couple to the portable
processing unit using an electrical, mechanical, or electromechanical
coupling. The control docking unit can be configured to communicate
control information to the portable processing unit using wired,
wireless, or a combination of wired and wireless communication links.
Alternatively, or additionally, the control docking unit can communicate
control information to the portable processing unit using mechanical
coupling. For example, controls on the control docking unit can
mechanically couple to controls on the portable processing unit, such
that actuation of a control on the control docking unit results in a
corresponding actuation of a control on the portable processing unit.
[0025] FIG. 1A is a simplified diagram of an embodiment of a portable
processing unit 10 docked in a control docking unit 20. In the embodiment
of FIG. 1A, the portable processing unit 10 is captured in a receptacle.
The receptacle may, but need not encapsulate the entire portable
processing unit 10. In other embodiments, the control docking unit 20 can
include one or more clamps, fingers, extensions, and the like for
positioning the portable processing unit 10. In one embodiment, one or
more clips or snaps can retain the portable processing unit 10 to the
receptacle. The control docking unit 20 may also utilize fasteners,
loops, adhesives, and the like, or some combination thereof to couple the
portable processing unit 10 to the control docking unit 20.
[0026] Portions of the control docking unit 20 can cover some or all of a
front surface of the portable processing unit 10. Portions of the control
docking unit 20 can be substantially transparent, such as portions
overlaying the display 12 on the portable processing unit 10. Other
portions of the control docking unit 20 may be opaque, and may occlude
some or all of the controls 14 on the portable processing unit 10. In
some embodiments, substantially all of the controls 14 of the portable
processing unit 10 are accessible when the portable processing unit 10 is
coupled to the control docking unit 10.
[0027] The control docking unit 20 can include controls 22 that can be
used to control the portable processing unit 10 when it is coupled to the
control docking unit 20. The controls 22 can be positioned on a body
portion 24. The controls 22 and body portion 24 can be configured to
substantially duplicate the form of a control unit for a similar
processing system. For example, the body portion 24 and controls 22 can
be configured to substantially duplicate a control unit used with a
console system. Thus, when the control docking unit 20 is used to control
an associated portable processing unit 10, the operation and feel of the
controls is the same as a control unit for a console system. For example,
the controls 22 can include button positioned on the left and right hand
side of the control docking unit 20 as well as an analog style stick
controls positioned on each side and configured to be operated with the
corresponding hand.
[0028] A manufacturer can produce both a console system and a portable
gaming unit. The manufacturer or some third party application developer
can provide similar applications or games that execute on each of the
operating platforms. For example, a developer can develop a version of a
game originally developed for a console system for execution on the
portable gaming unit. The user can use the control docking unit 20 so
that the controls used to play the game on the portable gaming unit are
the same as when the game is played on the console system.
[0029] In one embodiment, the control docking unit 20 can have a physical
configuration that substantially duplicates a physical configuration for
a controller of a console system having the same manufacturer as the
portable processing unit 10 for which it is designed. In another
embodiment, the physical configuration of the control docking unit 20 can
substantially duplicate the physical configuration of a cross platform,
where a cross platform refers to another manufacturers console system,
another manufacturer's portable processing unit, an arcade unit, a PC
based controller, and the like. In a cross platform configuration, the
user can use a preferred control configuration regardless of the
manufacturer of the portable processing unit 10.
[0030] FIG. 1B is a side view of the embodiment of the portable processing
unit 10 docked in the control docking unit 20 shown in FIG. 1A. In the
embodiment shown in FIG. 1B, the control docking unit 20 utilizes a
flexible clip 28 to retain the portable processing unit 10 within a
receptacle that extends along the back of the portable processing unit
10.
[0031] The lower end of the receptacle includes a hinge 26 that allows the
receptacle and associated portable processing unit 10 to rotate relative
to the control portion of the control docking unit 20. The hinge 26
allows the user to adjust the orientation of the portable processing unit
10 when captured in the control docking unit 20.
[0032] FIG. 1C is a view of another embodiment of a portable processing
unit 10 coupled to a control docking unit 20. In the embodiment of FIG.
1C, at least a portion of the portable processing unit 10 fits into a
receptacle of the control docking unit 20. The orientation of the
portable processing unit 10 is fixed when captured in the control docking
unit 20.
[0033] A portion of the control docking unit 20 can cover some or all of
the controls on the portable processing unit 10. In such an embodiment, a
user is unable to directly access at least some of the controls of the
portable processing unit 10. A user accesses the controls of the control
docking unit 20 to control at least some of the operations of the
portable processing unit 10 when it is docked to the control docking unit
20.
[0034] FIG. 1D shows a cross sectional view of the portable processing
unit 10 coupled to the control docking unit 20. The view details an
embodiment of a mechanical coupling between a control 34 on the control
docking unit and a corresponding control 16 on the portable processing
unit 10. It is possible to reduce or eliminate the amount of electrical
connections and active devices within the control docking unit 20 by
implementing mechanical coupling.
[0035] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1D, a control 34 on the control
docking unit 20, such as a button or switch, can be configured to apply
pressure to a flexible lever 32 when depressed or otherwise operated. The
flexible lever 32 can be fastened at one end to a mount 36 within the
control docking unit 20.
[0036] The control 34 can be configured with a stop or otherwise can be
configured to provide a mechanical limit to the range of operation. Thus,
regardless of the force exerted on the control 34 of the control docking
unit 20, the amount of operating force applied by the flexible lever 32
to the control 16 of the portable processing unit 10 is constrained to a
predetermined range. Limiting the force applied to the control 16 of the
portable processing unit 10 may be advantageous in prolonging the life of
the control 16.
[0037] Of course, a mechanical coupling does not require the use of a
flexible lever 32 and other configurations for mechanical coupling may be
implemented by the control docking unit 20. For example, a control 34 or
button on the control docking unit 20 may be positioned substantially
over the corresponding control 16 on the portable processing unit 10,
such that operation of the control 34 is directly translated to
corresponding control 16 on the portable processing unit 10. In another
embodiment, the mechanical coupling between the control 34 on the control
docking unit 20 and the corresponding control 16 on the portable
processing unit 10 may be accomplished using electromechanical devices,
pneumatic devices, hydraulic devices, or some other apparatus or
combination of apparatus.
[0038] FIG. 2 is a simplified functional block diagram of an embodiment of
a portable processing unit 10 coupled to a control docking unit 20. The
embodiment of the control docking unit 20 includes numerous optional
modules that may be omitted from other embodiments. Additionally, each of
the modules within the control docking unit 20 can have multiple
embodiments and variations.
[0039] The embodiment of the portable processing unit 10 is representative
of typical portable processing units. Not all portable processing units
will have every module shown in the embodiment of FIG. 2.
[0040] The portable processing unit 10 includes a display 110 that is
configured to provide visual output to a user. The portable processing
unit 10 can also include controls or some type of user interface 120. The
portable processing unit 10 can include a power supply 140 and
input/output interface 130.
[0041] The portable processing unit 10 typically includes a processor 152
in communication with memory 154. The processor 152 typically accesses
the memory 154 to access and execute one or more applications stored in
memory 154. The memory 154 can include one or more memory modules. Some
or all of the memory modules can be removable memory modules. In other
embodiments, some or all of the memory modules are internal to the
portable processing unit 10 and are permanently fixed to the unit. The
memory 154 can include, but is not limited to, ROM, including EPROM and
EEPROM, RAM, including volatile and non-volatile RAM, FLASH, magnetic
storage, optical storage, and the like, or some combination of storage
devices.
[0042] In one embodiment, the memory 154 can include removable optical
disks configured to store application program information that can be
executed by the processor 152. In other embodiments, the memory 154 can
include removable electronic storage, such as cartridges, cards, or
modules that can include application program information that can be
executed by the processor 152.
[0043] The user interface 120 typically includes one or more controls that
can be accessed and operated by the user. Although the user interface is
shown distinct from the display 110, it is understood that one or more
user interface modules can be operable via the display 110, for example,
the display 110 can be implemented as a touch screen display, and one or
more "soft" keys or controls can be implemented on the display 110.
[0044] The I/O interface 130 can include one or more ports that allow
external interface with the portable processing unit 10. The one or more
ports can be physical ports or electronic ports. The physical ports can
be implemented on the housing of the portable processing unit 10, while
the electronic ports may not be physically visible. For example, the I/O
interface 130 can include one or more output jacks that can be used to
interface with external speakers, headphones, microphones, external
controllers, external displays, and the like. The I/O interface 130 can
also include one or more power jacks or ports that can be used to supply
power to the portable processing unit 10 or that can be used to source
power from the portable processing unit 10. The I/O interface 130 can
also include such electronic interfaces such as wireless communication
interfaces, which can include RF interfaces, optical interfaces, magnetic
interfaces, and the like. A wireless interface can operate in accordance
with an industry standard, such as IEEE 802.11 wireless standard. An
optical interface can include an IR interface.
[0045] The power supply 140 can include an internal power supply or an
external power supply, or some combination of internal and external power
supplies. For example, the power supply 140 can include a battery module
having one or more batteries internal to the portable processing unit 10.
The battery module can allow the portable processing unit 10 to operate
independent of any wired power grid or wired power supply. In another
embodiment, the portable processing unit 10 can include an internal power
converter that can be configured to accept an external power source, such
as AC power, and can convert the power to a form usable by the portable
processing unit 10. In other embodiments, the power supply 140 can
include an external power converter, such as a wall transformer, that is
configured to plug into a power source and provide power to the portable
processing unit 10. The power converters can be configured to
concurrently power the portable processing unit 10 and charge the battery
module where the power supply 140 includes a combination of power
converter and battery module.
[0046] The control docking unit 20 can be configured to couple with the
portable processing unit 10. In one embodiment, the control docking unit
20 can be configure to couple with a single type of portable processing
unit 10. In other embodiments, the control docking unit 20 can be
configured as a generic unit that is able to couple to more than one type
of portable processing unit 10. In other embodiments, the control docking
unit 20 can be configured to couple with predetermined types or families
of portable processing units 10.
[0047] The control docking unit 20 can be configured to substantially
duplicate the controls of some other control unit. For example, the
control docking unit 20 can provide substantially the same size and
control orientation of a controller for a console system. In one
embodiment, the control docking unit 230 is configured to support a
portable gaming platform from a first manufacturer, and the control
docking unit 20 is configured to provide substantially the same size and
control orientation as a controller for a console system from the first
manufacturer. In another embodiment, the control docking unit 20 can be
configured to provide substantially the same size and control orientation
as a controller for a console system from a second manufacturer distinct
from the first manufacturer.
[0048] The control docking unit 20 can include a mechanical interface 210.
The mechanical interface 210 may be integral to the control docking unit
20 or may extend from a body portion of the control docking unit 20. The
mechanical interface 210 is configured to couple to the portable
processing unit 10.
[0049] The control docking unit 20 can also include a control module 220
that includes one or more controls accessible and operable by the user.
The controls in the control module 220 can couple to a control interface
module 230 where operation of a control on the control module 220 is
translated by the control interface module 230 to a form a usable by the
portable processing unit 10.
[0050] The control interface module 230 can also be configured to receive
external input, for example, from the portable processing unit 10. The
control interface module 230 can couple the external input to one or more
of the other modules. For example, the control docking unit 20 can
include a haptic feedback module 240 that provides haptic feedback to one
or more of the controls in the control module 220. The control interface
module 230 can receive the haptic feedback information from the portable
processing unit 10 and format the information for use by the haptic
feedback module 240.
[0051] The control docking unit 20 can also include one or more accessory
ports 250. The control docking unit 20 can also include a power supply
module 260.
[0052] The mechanical interface 210 can be configured to support, mate, or
otherwise couple to the portable processing unit 10. In one embodiment,
the mechanical interface 210 is configured to allow a user to vary the
orientation of the portable processing unit 10 relative to a body portion
of the control docking unit. As shown in FIG. 1B, the mechanical
interface 210 can include a hinge that allows the portable processing
unit 10 to rotate along the hinge axis. Other configurations can be used
to allow repositioning of the portable processing unit 10. For example,
the mechanical interface 210 can include one or more rotating mount,
flexible mount, extendible mount, and the like to allow repositioning of
the portable processing unit 10.
[0053] The mechanical interface 210 can include any manner of securing the
portable processing unit 10 to the control docking unit 20. For example,
the mechanical interface 210 can include one or more fasteners,
receptacles, adhesive portions, clamps, springs, latches, and the like to
secure the portable processing unit 10.
[0054] The mechanical interface 210 can be configured to allow access to
some or all of the controls on the portable processing unit 10. For
example, the mechanical interface 210 can allow the user to access and
operate one or more of the controls on the portable processing unit 10
when coupled to the control docking unit 20. In another embodiment, the
mechanical interface 210 can be configured to occlude or prevent access
to one or more controls on the portable processing unit 10. Additionally,
the mechanical interface 210 can be configured to cover some or all of
the display 110 on the portable processing unit 10. The cover can be at
least partially transparent to allow the user to view the display 110.
Alternatively, a portion of the cover can be substantially opaque, such
that portions of the portable processing unit 10 are no longer visible
when the portable processing unit 10 is coupled to the control docking
unit 20.
[0055] The control interface module 230 can be coupled to the control
module 220 and can operate to receive input signals from the control
module 220 and process the input to a format suitable for communication
to the portable processing unit 10. The control interface 230 can include
a mechanical interface, electrical interface, electromechanical
interface, or some combination of interfaces.
[0056] The control interface module 230 can be configured to determine
that a portable processing unit 10 is coupled to the control docking unit
20. The control interface unit 230 can be configured to indicate to the
portable processing unit 10 the presence of the control docking unit 20
when the two are coupled.
[0057] The control interface 230 can couple signals to the portable
processing unit 10 using a wired connection or a wireless connection. A
wired connection can be made through a port or connector on the portable
processing unit 10 via the mechanical interface 210. Alternatively, the
control interface module 230 can include one or more cables, wires, or
connections that may separately mate with a connector, port, or
receptacle on the portable processing unit 10.
[0058] The control interface module 230 can include one or more wireless
interfaces that are configured to communicate with complementary
interfaces on the portable processing unit 10. For example, the control
interface module 230 can receive control input from the controls on the
control module 220 and process them to wireless signals that are
broadcast or otherwise communicated to the portable processing unit 10.
The wireless signals can include RF signals that operate in accordance
with a proprietary standard or an industry standard for example, the
control interface module 230 can transform control inputs to IEEE 802.11
RF signals that are transmitted to a complementary interface on the
portable processing unit 10. In another embodiment, the control interface
module 230 can transform the control input signals to optical signals,
such as IR signals, that are coupled to an IR receiver on the portable
processing unit 10.
[0059] If the interface between the controls on the control module 220 and
the controls on the portable processing unit 10 include mechanical
interfaces, the control interface 230 can include on or more mechanical
interfaces coupling the two. Some interfaces can include a combination of
mechanical and electrical interfaces, and the control interface module
230 can be configured to provide the appropriate function.
[0060] The control interface module 230 can also operate to receive input
from one or more external devices. The control interface module 230 can
be coupled to the accessory ports 250 and can receive and process signals
received by the accessory ports 250 for transmission or coupling to the
portable processing unit 10. The control interface module 230 can also
receive
[0061] The accessory ports 250 can include one or more ports configured to
couple and interface with one or more external devices. For example, the
accessory ports can include a connector configured to accept a wired
connector, such as a wired connector from a controller of a console
system. In this embodiment, the control docking unit 20 can operate as a
hub to allow the connection of multiple controllers.
[0062] In another embodiment, the accessory ports 250 can include one or
more output ports or bidirectional communication ports. For example, one
accessory port can be a display port that is configured to supply display
signals for an external display. In another embodiment, the one or more
output ports can include one or more audio ports configured to provide
audio output or electrical signals for an audio output device.
[0063] The control interface module 230 can also receive communications or
controls from the portable processing unit 10. For example, the control
interface module 230 can receive haptic feedback information from the
portable processing unit 10 during execution of an application. The
control interface module 230 can process the haptic feedback information
and communicate it to the haptic feedback module 240 where the haptic
feedback can be coupled to the control module 220 or one or more external
devices, via the accessory ports 250.
[0064] The power supply module 260 can be configured to power the control
docking unit 20, the portable processing unit, or a combination of the
control docking unit 20 and the portable processing unit 10. Similar to
the power supply 140 within the portable processing unit 10, the power
supply module 260 in the control docking unit 20 can include some
combination of power supplies in conjunction with a battery module.
[0065] In one embodiment, the power supply module 260 operates to power
the portable processing unit 10 and recharge batteries in the portable
processing unit 10 when the portable processing unit 10 is coupled to the
control docking unit 20. In another embodiment, the power supply module
260 can include one or more power filters or conditioners and the control
docking unit 20 can operate from power supplied by the portable
processing unit 10. In another embodiment, the power supply module 260
can be configured to supply power to the control docking unit 20
independent to the portable processing unit 10.
[0066] The portable processing unit 10 can be configured to operate
substantially the same when coupled to the control docking unit 20. That
is, in one embodiment, the portable processing unit 10 utilizes the
control docking unit as a controller. In another embodiment, operation of
the portable processing unit 10 may differ when coupled to the control
docking unit 20.
[0067] For example, an application executing on the portable processing
unit 10 may operate in one configuration when the portable processing
unit 10 operates independently and may operate in another configuration
when the portable processing unit 10 is coupled to the control docking
unit 20 and operates in conjunction with the control docking unit 20. In
such an embodiment, the application executing on the portable processing
unit 10 can be configured to provide additional or extended features that
take advantage of the control docking unit 20.
[0068] In one embodiment, the portable processing unit 10 can determine
that it is coupled to the control docking unit 20 and the execution of an
application can differ when the portable processing unit 10 is coupled to
the control docking unit 20. Because the portable processing unit 10 may
have a different control configuration than that offered on the control
docking unit 20, the portable processing unit 10 may be configured to
support the control configuration offered on the control docking unit 20.
For example, the portable processing unit 10 can be configure to accept
control inputs via a wireless interface when coupled to the control
docking unit 20 and can allow additional or different control inputs for
the application. In another embodiment, the application executing on the
portable processing unit 10 can be configured to provide enhanced
functionality or features when the portable processing unit 10 is coupled
to the control docking unit 20.
[0069] FIG. 3 is a simplified flowchart of an embodiment of a method 300
of operating a portable processing unit coupled to a control docking
unit. The method 300 can be performed by the portable processing unit in
conjunction with the control docking unit, except for the initial
coupling step that can be performed by a user of the portable processing
unit for example, the method 300 can be performed by the units shown in
FIG. 2.
[0070] The method 300 begins at block 310 where a user couples the
portable processing unit to the control docking unit. The process of
coupling the portable processing unit to the control docking unit can
include securing the portable processing unit to the predetermined
location of the control docking unit. Coupling the portable docking unit
may also include connecting one or more electrical connectors or
operating one or more mechanical retainers.
[0071] In one embodiment, the user couples the portable processing unit to
the control docking unit with the portable processing unit de-energized
or in an "off" or "standby" condition. In another embodiment, the user
can couple the portable processing unit to the control docking unit with
either the portable processing unit, the control docking unit, or both
units in an operational state. Coupling the two units when either unit is
energized may be referred to as hot docking of the unit, where the term
"hot" generally refers to electrically energized.
[0072] After coupling the two units, the user can proceed to block 320.
The user, or alternatively, the portable processing unit can initialize
an application. If the portable processing unit and control docking unit
are coupled with either or both de-energized, the user may manually
energize one or both units. In another embodiment, the user may only need
to energize one of the units and the unit may energize the complementary
unit.
[0073] Once the units are energized, the portable processing unit can
initialize an application. In one embodiment, the user selects an
application and instructs the portable processing unit to initialize the
application. In such an embodiment, the portable processing unit can
receive an application selection and receive an initialization command or
instruction.
[0074] In another embodiment, the portable processing unit can
automatically select and initialize an application when it is energized.
In another embodiment, the portable processing unit can be configured to
automatically select and initialize an application upon receipt of a
removable memory module having the application stored thereon. In yet
another embodiment, the portable processing unit can select and
initialize an application upon sensing a hot docking operation.
[0075] After initializing the application, the portable processing unit
can proceed to block 330 and determine the presence of the control
docking unit. The portable processing unit can be configured to determine
the presence of the control docking unit automatically, via user input,
or via a combination of automatic operation and user input.
[0076] In one embodiment, the portable processing unit may automatically
determine the presence of a control docking unit based on a mechanical
interface between the two units. For example, an extension or protrusion
positioned on the control docking unit can compress a button or control
on the portable processing unit. In another embodiment, the control
docking unit can include an extension or protrusion positioned on the
portable docking unit can occlude an optical link on the portable
processing unit, thereby indicating the presence of a control docking
unit.
[0077] In another embodiment, the portable processing unit can determine
the presence of a control docking unit using electrical processes. For
example, the control docking unit may broadcast its presence and the
portable processing unit may be configured to receive the broadcast. In
another embodiment, the portable processing unit may poll or otherwise
request a link with a control docking unit and the control docking unit
can be configured to respond to such a polling message.
[0078] In yet another embodiment, the portable processing unit may have
one or more controls or control sequences that may be entered by a user
to indicate the presence of the control docking unit. In such an
embodiment, the portable processing unit determines a presence of the
control docking unit in response to the receipt of the control input or
sequence of control inputs.
[0079] In another embodiment, the application may query the user as to the
presence of the control docking unit, and the portable processing unit
can determine the presence of the portable processing unit in response to
the user input to the query. In an application based embodiment, the
portable processing unit may determine the presence of the control
docking unit solely in response to the user input and regardless of any
physical coupling to the control docking unit. In another embodiment, the
portable processing unit may determine the presence of the control
docking unit by monitoring the user input to the application query and in
combination with one or more physical sensors.
[0080] After determining the presence of the control docking unit, the
portable processing unit can proceed to block 340 and initialize the
docking unit control. In one embodiment, the portable processing unit may
initialize a wireless link that is used to communicate user input
received at the control docking unit to the portable processing unit. The
portable processing unit may also configure the application to accept the
range of user inputs defined by the control processing unit. For example,
the control docking unit may have more or different user controls than
are available on the portable processing unit, and the portable
processing unit may configure the application to an alternative command
set corresponding to the control docking unit.
[0081] After initializing or otherwise enabling the controls of the
control docking unit, the portable processing unit can proceed to block
350 and initialize any enhanced features or alternative execution
available in the presence of the control docking unit.
[0082] It may be illustrative to examine an example of the method 300 of
FIG. 3 in the context of a portable processing unit that is implemented
as a portable gaming platform. In one embodiment, a portable processing
unit can be a portable gaming platform, such as a PSP.TM. available from
Sony.
[0083] The portable gaming platform can be configured to play many games
that were originally designed for the PS.TM. or PS2.TM. console systems
and that were ported for execution on the portable gaming platform. The
control docking unit can be configured to have a body portion that has
substantially the same control configuration, operation, and dimensions
as a controller for the PS.TM. or PS2.TM. console systems. Thus, when
playing a game ported to execute on the portable gaming platform, the
user can utilize substantially, if not identically, the same control
sequence as used with the console system.
[0084] The user can couple the portable gaming platform to the control
docking unit and can initialize both the portable gaming platform as well
as the control docking unit. As described earlier, energizing the control
docking unit may energize and initialize the portable gaming platform.
[0085] The user can then select and initialize a game. For example, the
user can insert a game disk into the portable gaming platform and
initialize the game. The user can initialize the game using the controls
on the portable gaming platform, or alternatively, can initialize the
game using the controls of the control docking unit.
[0086] In one embodiment, the portable gaming unit can initialize the
controls of the control docking unit prior to initializing the
application. The portable gaming platform can utilize a wireless
communication link, for example a wireless LAN, to communicate the
control information.
[0087] The application can query the user for operation using the control
docking unit. The application, via the portable gaming unit, can
determine the presence of the control docking unit and can initialize the
docking unit controls.
[0088] The portable gaming platform can then enable or otherwise make
available enhanced features or alternative execution that is available
when it is determined that the control docking unit is present. The user
can then use the controls available on the control docking unit to play
the game and control the portable gaming unit.
[0089] A control docking unit for use with a portable processing unit and
methods for operating a portable processing unit when docked with a
control docking unit are described. The control docking unit can be
configured to provide a physical and control interface that facilitates
user control of the portable processing unit. The physical dimensions and
the control layout of the body portion of the control docking unit can be
configured to substantially duplicate similar control units. For example,
the control docking unit can be configured to substantially duplicate the
dimensions and controls available on a controller for a console gaming
system.
[0090] The portable processing unit can be configured to operate in
response to the controls of the control docking unit. In some
embodiments, the portable processing unit can be configured to provide
enhanced or special features within applications when coupled to the
control docking unit.
[0091] The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and circuits
described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be
implemented or performed with a general purpose processor, a digital
signal processor (DSP), a Reduced Instruction Set Computer (RISC)
processor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field
programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device,
discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any
combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A
general purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in the
alternative, the processor may be any processor, controller,
microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as
a combination of computing devices, for example, a combination of a DSP
and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more
microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such
configuration.
[0092] A software module may reside in RAM memory, flash memory,
non-volatile memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers,
hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage
medium known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to the
processor such the processor can read information from, and write
information to, the storage medium. In the alternative, the storage
medium may be integral to the processor.
[0093] The steps of a method, process, or algorithm described in
connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be embodied directly
in hardware, in a software module executed by a processor, or in a
combination of the two. The various steps or acts in a method or process
may be performed in the order shown, or may be performed in another
order. Additionally, one or more process or method steps may be omitted
or one or more process or method steps may be added to the methods and
processes. An additional step, block, or action may be added in the
beginning, end, or intervening existing elements of the methods and
processes.
[0094] The above description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to
enable any person of ordinary skill in the art to make or use the
disclosure. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily
apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, and the generic
principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without
departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. Thus, the
disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein
but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and
novel features disclosed herein.
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