GB2485168A

GB2485168A - Audio playback device

Info

Publication number: GB2485168A
Application number: GB1018508.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: David Wiltsher; Sharon Wiltsher
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2010-11-03
Filing date: 2010-11-03
Publication date: 2012-05-09
Also published as: GB201018508D0

Abstract

An audio playback device comprises a plurality of controls for activating playback of user-selectable sound recordings and for activating lighting configurations. A microphone may be provided to allow users to record at least one personal sound-recording. Additional recordings may be added via a digital interface or from a digital memory. The device may also include a display, voice recognition or text to speech functions.

Description

CONThOL DEVICE

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a control device, more particularly a device that plays recorded sounds for use by a parental figure to exercise control of a listener.

vnmiarvf the Invention According to the present invention there is provided a handheld control device having a plurality of controls to operate user-selectable sound recordings and lighting configurations.

Ideally the sound recordings are grouped into classes that relate to control commands or comments such as those of a parental figure. In the preferred embodiment the sound recordings are further grouped into male and female speaker classes.

In further embodiments the control device may provide pet related controls.

In the preferred embodiment a light emitting diode (LED) display or other lighting arrangement is further ideally provided which cooperates with, communicates, or enhances the sound recordings.

In further embodiments the lighting display may comprise focussed light beams for use on remote objects.

In the preferred embodiment the device comes equipped with 10 pre-recorded phrases, each spoken in both male and female voices. There is also provided an option to record and play-back at least one personal sound-recording. A panic' button is also provided, to emit a siren sound effect and light display.

Ideally playback volume control is included.

Ideally a microphone and/or digital interface and/or digital memory may be provided. This may enable the user to input (and the device to receive) remotely achieved recordings, light configurations or patterns, and/or software.

In further embodiments wireless compatibility may be provided such as Bluetooth (Trade Mark).

In further embodiments the device may be equipped with voice recognition and/or speech-to-text facilities. In yet further embodiments the device is provided with a display screen.

Ideally a rechargeable power cell may be provided. Said cell may be rechargeable by kinetic energy, and/or including a transducer to convert mechanical or magnetic energy input into electric output in order to charge the cell. A manual winder may be provided to charge up the cell.

Ideally a lanyard attachment point is included. ln alternate embodiments a key ring or clip attachments may be provided.

Brief Description of Figures

Figure 1 shows an isometric view of a preferred embodiment of the device; and Figure 2 an isometric exploded view of the preferred embodiment.

Detailed Descrjption of Preferred Embodiment of the Invention The embodiment in Figure 1 has a loudspeaker grille 1, user controls 2 for selection of recording, volume control 3, panic button 4 an lanyard attachment point 6.

In Figure 2 the embodiment components are exposed. It is possible therefore to see that the preferred embodiment is composed of a ring of LED5 (80) spaced around the outside of the front face of the device. A cover 8 is provided. This cover (8) may be transparent or largely transparent, in order that the LEDs may be visible beneath it.

Beneath the loudspeaker grille 1, the device is provided with an amplifier and loudspeaker or other means of playing the recordings.

Further electronic components are envisaged, including digital memory, digital interface capabilities, further amplifier, microchips, and other capabilities for providing further features.

The invention has been described by way of examples only and it will be appreciated that variation may be made to the above-mentioned embodiments without departing from the scope of invention.

With respect to the above description then, it is to be realised that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and aB equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.

Claims

Claims 1. A handheld control device having a plurality of controls to operate user-selectable sound recordings and lighting configurations.
2. A handheld control device according to claim 1 wherein a microphone and/or digital interface and/or digital memory may be provided.
3. A handheld control device according to claims I or 2 includes focussed light beams for use on remote objects.
4. A handheld control device according to claims 1, 2 or 3 includes voice recognition and/or speech-to-text facilities.
5. A handheld control device according to claims 1, 2, 3 or 4 includes a display screen.
6. A handheld control device according to any preceding claim having a text to speech facility.