Xybernaut secures Japanese patent for voice control of mobile computing devices

Fairfax, VA—Xybernaut Corp. announced May 20 that it's been granted a patent by the Japan Patent Office (JPO) that is expected to make hands-free, mobile computing and communications more simple and efficient by providing unique voice-activated, power management features, such as the ability to turn a computer on and off with audio commands.

By Control Engineering Staff May 23, 2003

Fairfax, VA— Xybernaut Corp. announced May 20 that it has been granted a patent by the Japan Patent Office (JPO) that is expected to make hands-free, mobile computing and communications more simple and efficient for Japan’s mobile workforce by providing unique voice-activated power management features, such as the ability to turn a computer on and off with audio commands.

ther markets.

y to use voice or audible commands to turn on or off selected components of a computer or other smart device.’

“Audio interrupt” capabilities of devices covered by the patent are expected to enhance hands-free uses and extend battery life. The patent doesn’t require a hands-free display, which is expected to make it useful in the cell phone, PDA, and gaming industries as their products evolve into more full-function computing devices. In its most simple applications, this technology offers the ability to extend usable battery life, and control heat without making physical changes to batteries or hardware.

The patent’s basic aspects are described as: “body-supported computing apparatus with audio-activated power management systems. This invention uses voice-activated capabilities, including an audio-activated transducer and power converter system, to control a computing apparatus’ power and heat generated in the device by using audio commands. These power management capabilities could include activation or ‘shut down’ of the device, as well as functions that preserve power. Various display technologies such as flat-panel display (FPD) or head-mount display (HMD) may be used with this computer.

Xybernaut’s Japanese patent is part of its refocused licensing strategy. The firm is using aggressive licensing initiatives for its patented technologies, many of which represent attractive options for applications in field force automation. Xybernaut wearable computer patents are now recognized and protected in Australia, Canada, nine European nations, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, the People’s Republic of China, the Republic of China (Taiwan), and the U.S.

Control Engineering Daily News DeskJim Montague, news editorjmontague@reedbusiness.com