Gizmodo: patent applications

Automatic Cameraphone Zoom Shows Up In Sony Ericsson Patent App

John Herrman — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 05:30:00 EDT

I guess the complicated combination of accelerometers and proximity sensors isn't trivial technology, but this one really should have been done by now: automatic zoom based on camera movement. In a new patent application, Sony Ericsson has detailed technology that judges your intention to zoom by measuring the camera's distance from your body, zooming in as it moves further away. The patent is just for cameraphones at the moment, but there's no reason that it couldn't (or shouldn't) crop up in the next generation of point and shoots as well. [UnwiredView via Engadget]

Wireless Docking for iPhone, iPod Coming?

Charlie White — Fri, 16 Feb 2007 09:25:21 EST

In yesterday's patent application Apple filed for its multi-orientation docking station for the iPhone, there was even more tantalizing information: Apple may be preparing wireless docking for its iPhones, iPods and other devices. The technique will use voodoo called induction, and involves hiding coils underneath the surface of a device and its cradle, with the ability to wirelessly transfer data and power.

Here's the evidence:

From the patent application:

"The inductive coils are typically hidden from view behind the housings of each device and therefore they are more aesthetically pleasing than electrical contacts, which need to be exposed in order to operate effectively... Furthermore, inductively based systems are more robust than electrical contacts. For example, there are no contacts to wear out and/or oxidize."

We saw similar technology at CES demonstrated by Fulton Innovation with eCoupled, using inductive coupling to transfer power across thin air. Even though Apple mentioned a similar technique in its patent application, this part of the equation already exists. Expect to see this wireless juju showing up on Apple products and many others in the near future. – Charlie White

Apple may turn to induction for iPod docking, charging [Apple Insider]

iPhone Docking Station Patent Application Shows Multi-Orientation Design, Possible Table PC Compatibility

Charlie White — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 08:35:05 EST

Two designs for Apple iPhone docking stations have just surfaced in an Apple patent application, showing cradles that allow the iPhone to be docked and viewed in either horizontal or vertical orientation. The patent application describes "Methods and apparatuses for docking a portable electronic device that has a planar like configuration and that operates in multiple orientations."

An intriguing aspect of the illustrations is the possibility that one of the cradle designs is not only intended for the iPhone, but also might encompass a tablet PC. Here's another illustration of a slightly different method, one that would also be appropriate for a tablet:

The patent application even mentions the term "tablet PC."

"The portable electronic device may correspond to a tablet, and the base may serve as a location for accessing the Internet or connecting to peripheral devices such as printers, fax machines, scanners, and the like.... In cases such as these the portable electronic device may correspond to a monitor, tablet PC..."

It works in a similar way to rotating LCD monitors, letting you dock and view the iPhone in whichever direction you prefer. – Charlie White

New iPhone Docking Station. Apple tablet next? [Unwired View]

LG Develops "Drawer" Cellphone Idea

Charlie White — Mon, 17 Apr 2006 10:28:05 EDT

Here's another one of those patent drawings, this one by LG Electronics which has claimed the idea of a "drawer-type" handset. You push a button and tiny gears slide the cover up to reveal the keypad, while extending the antenna at the same time.

With this design, LG hopes to eliminate that problem of candybar cellphones, where the microphone is not close enough to your mouth, while also eliminating the shortcoming of clamshell phones where they're not easy to open with one hand.

Notice the cover has a transparent window through which you can see the LCD when the cover is closed. It looks like the only catch with this design might be that it acts like a finger guillotine, sliding down and pinching your finger. Ouch.

LG Develops the 'Drawer' Phone [Mobiledia]