Apple Inc. patent applications published on September 28th, 2023

Patent applications for Apple Inc. on September 28th, 2023

PORTABLE LISTENING DEVICE WITH WIRELESS CHARGING CASE (18197646)

Inventor Arun D. Chawan

Brief explanation

The abstract describes an earbud that has a housing containing a driver assembly. The driver assembly is positioned within the housing and creates a front volume in front of it and a back volume behind it. An acoustic insert is placed behind the driver assembly and is attached to the inside of the housing. This acoustic insert forms a bass channel that connects the back volume to a vent in the housing.

Abstract

An earbud includes a housing that includes a driver assembly positioned within the housing forming a front volume in front of the driver and a back volume behind the driver. An acoustic insert is positioned behind the driver assembly and attached to an interior surface of the housing such that it forms a bass channel that is routed from the back volume to a vent in the housing.

PATTERNED ASYMMETRIC CHEMICAL STRENGTHENING (18140775)

Inventor James R. Wilson

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a glass sheet that has been chemically strengthened in an asymmetric manner. This glass sheet can be used as a cover for electronic devices or other glass components that form an enclosure. The glass sheet has localized regions of compressive stress on both sides, which can prevent cracks or defects from spreading and maintain the flatness of the component. This strengthening process also increases the overall strength and impact resistance of the glass component.

Abstract

A glass sheet having asymmetric chemical strengthening is disclosed and described. The examples described herein are directed to a cover glass for an electronic device and other glass components that may be used as enclosure elements or may form an enclosure. Within the glass component, localized compressive stress regions may be formed on opposite sides of the glass component, which may help arrest or redirect propagating cracks or defects in the glass. The opposing compressive stress regions may also help maintain the overall flatness of the component while increasing strength and/or impact resistance of the component.

MACHINE LEARNING CORRECTION OF TEMPERATURE AND HUMIDITY VALUES (18095529)

Inventor Gierad LAPUT

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a method for measuring the ambient temperature outside of an electronic device. It involves reading the temperature from a sensor inside the device and determining the power applied to the device. Using a trained model, the method then generates an estimated ambient temperature based on the sensor reading and the power applied.

Abstract

A method is provided that includes reading a raw temperature value from a temperature sensor mounted in an electronic device and determining an amount of power applied to the electronic device. The method further includes generating, using a trained model, an ambient temperature value based on the raw temperature value and the determined amount of power, wherein the ambient temperature value represents a temperature outside of the electronic device.

HEAD-MOUNTABLE DEVICE WITH CONNECTABLE ACCESSORIES (18124491)

Inventor Darshan R. KASAR

Brief explanation

The abstract explains that head-mountable devices can have adjustable and exchangeable connections with other devices to improve their performance. These connections allow for both physical attachment and communication between the devices. This means that additional devices can be easily connected to provide different features and functions as needed. As a result, the main part of the head-mountable device does not need to have all the necessary components permanently built-in. Instead, the device can be customized and expanded by using accessory devices.

Abstract

Head-mountable devices can include connection mechanisms that provide adjustable and exchangeable connections with other devices to enhance performance of the head-mountable device. Such connections can provide both mechanical engagement and operable communication between the connected devices. Accessory devices and/or external devices can be easily connected to provide different components and functions at different times as desired. Accordingly, a main portion of the head-mountable device need not include permanent components that provide every function that will later be desired by the user. Instead, the head-mountable device can have expanded and customizable capabilities by the use of one or more accessory devices.

Electronic Devices With Frame Antennas (18171067)

Inventor Lijun Zhang

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a head-mounted device, like a pair of glasses, that has display systems to show images to the user. The glasses have clear lenses that allow the user to see real-world objects. The glasses also have a metal frame and hinges to hold them together. The device also includes radio-frequency transceiver circuitry, like a cell phone, that is connected to antennas in the glasses. These antennas are made by dividing the metal frame into segments and filling the gaps with dielectric material. The antennas are then connected to the transceiver circuitry using transmission lines.

Abstract

A head-mounted device such as a pair of glasses may have display systems. The display systems may present images to eye boxes for viewing by a user. The glasses may have clear lenses through which real-world objects may be viewed from the eye boxes. The glasses may have a metal frame that surrounds the lenses and may have temples that are coupled to the frame using hinges. Radio-frequency transceiver circuitry such as cellular telephone transceiver circuitry may be coupled to one or more antennas in the head-mounted device. The antennas may have antenna resonating elements formed by placing dielectric-filled gaps in the metal frame to divide the frame into segments. Antenna resonating elements formed from segments of the metal frame may be coupled to the radio-frequency transceiver circuitry using transmission lines.

Devices With Near-Field Communications (18172906)

Inventor Lijun Zhang

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a head-mounted device that has a housing with displays and lenses. The device allows users to view images through these lenses. The lenses can be easily attached and removed using magnets. The device also includes antennas for near-field communications, which are formed from coils surrounding the lenses.

Abstract

A head-mounted device may have a head-mounted housing. The head-mounted housing may have displays that display images for a user through lenses. The displays and lenses may be mounted in left and right optical modules. Attachment structures such as magnets may be used to removably attach left and right vision correction lenses to the left and right optical modules, respectively. The images may be viewed from eye boxes through the vision correction lenses while the head-mounted device is being worn by the user. The vision correction lenses and the head-mounted device may be provided with near-field communications antennas. The antennas may be formed from coils that surround corrective lens elements in the vision correction lenses. In the head-mounted device, antennas may be formed from coils surrounding the lenses in the optical modules and/or may include other coil(s).

Optical Systems Having fLCOS Display Panels (18169263)

Inventor Yuan Chen

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a display that uses a ferroelectric liquid crystal on silicon (fLCOS) panel and a waveguide to produce image light. The fLCOS panel includes a ferroelectric liquid crystal layer and a backplane. To improve the reflectance and optical performance of the display, the backplane can be made of silver or a dielectric mirror. The backplane also has a specific cell gap that is determined by the wavelength of light and the birefringence of the fLC layer. The abstract suggests using a green wavelength between 500 nm and 565 nm to optimize the display's optical performance.

Abstract

A display may include illumination optics, a ferroelectric liquid crystal on silicon (fLCOS) panel, and a waveguide. The illumination optics may produce illumination that is modulated by the fLCOS panel to produce image light. The waveguide may direct the image light towards an eye box. The fLCOS panel may include a ferroelectric liquid crystal (fLC) layer and a backplane. In order to maximize the reflectance of the fLCOS panel and thus the optical performance of the display, the backplane may be a silver backplane or a dielectric mirror backplane. In addition, the backplane may have a cell gap that is equal to a wavelength divided by four times the birefringence of the fLC layer. In order to further optimize the optical performance of the display module, the wavelength used in determining the cell gap may be a green wavelength between 500 nm and 565 nm.

Eye Tracking Data Filtering (18056526)

Inventor Jacob Wilson

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a method for eye tracking, which involves determining the initial position of a person's pupil in relation to a lens in front of them. It then detects any changes in the pupil position and determines if the updated position is outside a specific area associated with the lens. If it is outside, a replacement position within that area is identified and used for eye tracking. Additionally, if a pixel associated with the person's gaze direction is outside a certain visibility region, a replacement pixel within that region is found. An updated gaze angle is then determined based on the replacement pixel, and eye tracking is performed using this updated angle.

Abstract

Eye tracking is performed by determining an initial pupil position of a user in relation to a lens situated in front of the user, detecting a change in pupil position in relation to the lens to an updated pupil position in relation to the lens, and determining that the updated pupil position is outside a bounding box associated with the lens. The updated pupil position is a replacement pupil position with a replacement pupil position within the bounding box associated with the lens, and the updated pupil position is utilized for eye-tracking functionality. Eye tracking is also performed by determining that a first pixel associated with a gaze direction is outside a visibility region, identifying a replacement pixel within the visibility region, determining an updated gaze angle based on the replacement pixel, and performing eye tracking using the updated gaze angle.

VOICE-CONTROLLED ELECTRONIC DEVICE (18199292)

Inventor Craig M. Stanley

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a voice-controlled electronic device that has a housing with a top, bottom, and side surface. Inside the device, there are microphones placed around the center, a processor that can understand and process voice commands, and transducers that produce sound waves at different frequencies.

Abstract

A voice-controlled electronic device that includes a device housing having a longitudinal axis bisecting opposing top and bottom surfaces and a side surface extending between the top and bottom surfaces. The device can further include one or more microphones disposed within the device housing and distributed radially around the longitudinal axis; a processor configured to execute computer instructions stored in a computer-readable memory for interacting with a user and processing voice commands received by the one or more microphones and first transducer and second transducers configured to generate sound waves within different frequency ranges.

FABRIC SENSING DEVICE (18296882)

Inventor Daniel A. Podhajny

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a touch-sensitive textile device that can detect when it is touched, where it is touched, and how much force is applied. The device is made up of two sets of conductive threads woven together in different directions. It also includes a sensing circuit that sends signals to the threads and measures changes in electrical properties to detect touches or near touches.

Abstract

A touch-sensitive textile device that is configured to detect the occurrence of a touch, the location of a touch, and/or the force of a touch on the touch-sensitive textile device. In some embodiments, the touch-sensitive textile device includes a first set of conductive threads oriented along a first direction, and a second set of conductive threads interwoven with the first set of conductive threads and oriented along a second direction. The device may also include a sensing circuit that is operatively coupled to the first and second set of conductive threads. The sensing circuit may be configured to apply a drive signal to the first and second set of conductive threads. The sensing circuit may also be configured to detect a touch or near touch based on a variation in an electrical measurement using the first or second set of conductive threads.

Systems, Methods, and Graphical User Interfaces for Interacting with Augmented and Virtual Reality Environments (18140557)

Inventor Mark K. Hauenstein

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a computer system that can display a simulated environment in relation to the physical environment of the computer. When the computer detects a change in attitude (such as a movement or rotation), it adjusts the appearance of a virtual user interface object to stay in the same position relative to the physical environment. The computer can also detect gestures, and if certain criteria are met, it can switch from the first viewing mode to a second viewing mode without adjusting the appearance of the virtual user interface object.

Abstract

A computer system displays, in a first viewing mode, a simulated environment that is oriented relative to a physical environment of the computer system. In response to detecting a first change in attitude, the computer system changes an appearance of a first virtual user interface object so as to maintain a fixed spatial relationship between the first virtual user interface object and the physical environment. The computing system detects a gesture. In response to detecting a second change in attitude, in accordance with a determination that the gesture met mode change criteria, the computer system transitions from displaying the simulated environment in the first viewing mode to displaying the simulated environment in a second viewing mode. Displaying the virtual model in the simulated environment in the second viewing mode includes forgoing changing the appearance of the first virtual user interface object to maintain the fixed spatial relationship.

Intelligent Media Queue (18169064)

Inventor Christopher John Sanders

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a system that intelligently manages a playlist of digital media. It includes methods and computer storage media for implementing this system. The system uses a dynamic queue to control the playback of digital media, such as songs. The queue can operate in different modes, including passive playback mode, active playback mode, and mixed playback mode. The system can determine how to play the songs in the queue based on the current mode and a status field associated with each song.

Abstract

Systems, methods, and non-transitory computer-readable storage media for intelligently managing a playlist of digital media provide an intelligent dynamic queue that is configured to manage the playback of digital media. The queue can transition between passive playback mode, active playback mode, and mixed playback mode. The queue can handle the playback of the songs in the queue according to the playback mode and/or a queue status field that is associated with each song in the queue.

AVATAR STICKER EDITOR USER INTERFACES (18204908)

Inventor Marco TRIVERIO

Brief explanation

The abstract above describes the topic of user interfaces for editing avatars. It mentions that the user interfaces can be used for editing both avatars and avatar stickers. Additionally, it states that the user interfaces can be used for editing the colors of various avatar features.

Abstract

The present disclosure generally relates to user interfaces for editing avatars. In some embodiments, user interfaces are shown for editing an avatar and avatar stickers. In some embodiments, user interfaces are shown for editing colors of one or more avatar features.

USER INTERFACES FOR CONTENT APPLICATIONS (18319939)

Inventor Erik LINDHOLM

Brief explanation

The abstract describes different features of an electronic device. It states that the device can display lyrics that are synchronized with the content being played. It also mentions that the device can show representations of content items in a specific order. Additionally, it states that the device can share content with another user's device.

Abstract

In some embodiments, an electronic device displays time-synced lyrics of content items playing on an electronic device. In some embodiments, an electronic device displays representations of content items in a playback sequence on an electronic device. In some embodiments, an electronic device shares an item of content with another user account of another electronic device.

Memory Error Tracking and Logging (17804950)

Inventor Farid Nemati

Brief explanation

The abstract describes techniques for tracking and logging memory errors. A memory cache controller circuit is used to track the number of correctable errors associated with different memory locations. When a certain threshold of correctable errors is reached for a specific location, a signal is generated to notify the processors about the location. The memory cache controller circuit also includes entries for tracking uncorrectable errors.

Abstract

Techniques are disclosed relating to memory error tracking and logging. In some embodiments, a memory cache controller circuitry is configured to track, using multiple circuit entries, numbers of detected correctable errors associated with multiple respective locations, and in response to detecting a threshold number of correctable errors for a particular location, generate a signal to the one or more processors that identifies the particular location. In some embodiments, the memory cache controller circuitry includes multiple circuit entries for tracking uncorrectable errors.

Storage Array Invalidation Maintenance (18171565)

Inventor Sreevathsa Ramachandra

Brief explanation

This abstract describes techniques for managing storage array invalidations in a computer system. The system includes a processor core that can operate in an idle state or a run state. When the processor core is idle, a power management circuit receives a set of invalidation requests to invalidate entries in a storage array. The power management circuit stores information about these invalidation requests. When the processor core receives a request to transition to the run state, the power management circuit invalidates the entries in the storage array based on the stored invalidation information.

Abstract

Techniques are disclosed relating to managing storage array invalidations. A computer system may comprise a processor core configured to operate in an idle state and operate in a run state in which the processor core executes instructions. The computer system may further comprise a power management circuit that is configured to receive, while the processor core is in the idle state, a set of invalidation requests directed to the processor core to invalidate a set of entries of a storage array of the processor core. The power management circuit may store invalidation information indicative of the set of invalidation requests. The power management circuit may determine that the processor core has received a request to transition to the run state. Prior to the processor core operating in the run state, the power management circuit may invalidate the set of entries of the storage array based on the invalidation information.

Dynamic Location Search Suggestions Based on Travel Itineraries (18172168)

Inventor Devrim Varoglu

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a method, system, and apparatus for retrieving local information on a user device. It involves detecting itinerary information stored by a first application on the device and identifying a travel destination based on that information. The travel destination is then communicated to a second application on the device and stored in association with it. The second application is designed to retrieve local information based on geographic locations, and it provides local information for the travel destination when the user interacts with it, based on a triggering threshold associated with the itinerary information.

Abstract

Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for retrieving local information on a user device include detecting itinerary information stored by a first application on a user device, and identifying a travel destination based on the detected itinerary information. The travel destination is communicated to a second application executable on a user device, and the travel destination is stored in association with the second application. The second application is adapted to retrieve local information based on an identified geographic location, and local information for the travel destination is provided through the second application in response to a user interaction with the second application and based on a triggering threshold associated with the itinerary information.

Confirm Gesture Identity (18189570)

Inventor Nathaniel R. Finney

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a technique for authenticating a user based on their hand features. This involves using sensor data to capture a scene that includes the user's hands, extracting features from the hand data, and determining the user's identity based on these features. The user's identity is associated with authentication information, which is checked before allowing the user to perform actions associated with hand gestures. Authenticated users can be used to determine authorized activity and enable collaborative activity among users.

Abstract

Techniques for authenticating a user based on hand features includes receiving sensor data of a scene that includes hands, extracting features for at least one of the hands, and determining a first identity associated with the at least one hand based on the extracted features. The user identity may be associated with authentication information such that when a system detects a gesture by the hands, the authentication information is assessed prior to performing an action associated with the gesture. Authenticated users may be used for determining authorized activity for performing an action associated with a gesture, and may be used for collaborative activity among users.

DEVICES, METHODS, AND GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACES FOR THREE-DIMENSIONAL USER EXPERIENCE SESSIONS IN AN EXTENDED REALITY ENVIRONMENT (18108852)

Inventor Philipp ROCKEL

Brief explanation

The abstract above describes techniques for creating computer-generated user experience sessions in an extended reality (XR) environment. These sessions can involve particles that move in response to a user's breathing patterns, options that are tailored to the characteristics of the XR environment, and a soundscape composed of randomly selected curated sound components.

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to techniques for providing computer-generated user experience sessions in an extended reality environment. In some embodiments, a computer system provides a computer-generated user experience session with particles that move based on breathing characteristics of a user. In some embodiments, a computer system provides a computer-generated user experience session with options selected based on characteristics of an XR environment. In some embodiments, a computer system provides a computer-generated user experience session with a soundscape having randomly selected curated sound components.

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR HEADING ESTIMATION (18200822)

Inventor Oliver Thomas Ruepp

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a method for estimating the heading or direction of a device using its camera. The device determines its geographic location and captures an image at that location. It then detects lines within the image and uses them, along with the geographic location, to determine the device's heading.

Abstract

In one implementation, a method of estimating the heading of a device is performed by the device including a processor, non-transitory memory, and an image sensor. The method includes determining a geographic location of the device. The method includes capturing, using the image sensor, an image at the geographic location. The method includes detecting one or more lines within the image. The method includes determining a heading of the device based on the one or more lines and the geographic location.

Electronic Device with a Display for Low Light Conditions (18189422)

Inventor Ritu Shah

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a method for operating a display device in low light conditions. It involves receiving information about the surrounding lighting conditions and determining if they are not bright enough. If this is the case, a specific set of pixels on the display device is identified, which corresponds to an area of interest in the environment. These pixels are then driven at a higher brightness level to improve the lighting in that area.

Abstract

Operating an outward-facing display device for low light conditions may include receiving information indicative of ambient lighting conditions for the display device's environment; in accordance with a determination that the ambient lighting conditions do not satisfy a brightness criterion, determining a set of pixels in the outward-facing display device corresponding to an area of interest in the environment; and driving the set of pixels at a particular brightness to improve lighting in the area of interest.

DIGITAL ASSISTANT FOR PROVIDING REAL-TIME SOCIAL INTELLIGENCE (18105158)

Inventor Eddy Zexin LIANG

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a method for intelligent automated assistants to provide real-time social intelligence. It explains that while the assistant is providing information to a user, it can determine if the user is engaged with another person nearby. This is done by detecting a human in the user's surroundings, determining if the user is looking at that person, and detecting any speech input from either the user or the person they are engaged with. If the user is determined to be engaged, the assistant will temporarily stop providing information to the user.

Abstract

This relates generally to intelligent automated assistants and, more specifically, to provide real-time social intelligence. An example method includes while providing one or more outputs to a user of the electronic device, determining whether the user is in an engaged state based on: detecting a human in a near-field scene of the user, determining that the user is gazing at the human, and detecting a speech input from at least one of the user or the human while the user is gazing at the human. In response to determining that the user is in the engaged state, foregoing providing the one or more outputs to the user while the user is in the engaged state.

Pixel Optical Structures for Display Optical Efficiency (18161763)

Inventor Young Cheol Yang

Brief explanation

The abstract describes an electronic device with a display that uses inorganic light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The display can have a polarizer layer, or it can be a polarizer-free display. Each LED is surrounded by a diffuser that directs light towards the viewer. Additional layers such as a top diffuser, color filter layer, microlens, or a combination of these may also be present. The LEDs have reflective sidewalls to reduce unwanted light emissions. The display can include opaque masking layers to reduce reflections, either with different properties or as a single phase separated layer.

Abstract

An electronic device may have a display with an array of inorganic light-emitting diodes. The array of inorganic light-emitting diodes may be overlapped by a polarizer layer such as a circular polarizer. Alternatively, the display may be a polarizer-free display without any polarizer layer over the array of inorganic light-emitting diodes. Each inorganic light-emitting diode may be surrounded by a diffuser that redirects edge-emissions towards a viewer. A top diffuser, a color filter layer, a microlens, and/or a microlens with color filtering and/or diffusive properties may also optionally overlap each inorganic light-emitting diode. The inorganic light-emitting diodes may have reflective sidewalls to mitigate edge-emissions. In this type of arrangement, the array of inorganic light-emitting diodes may be coplanar with one or more opaque masking layers. To mitigate reflections, the display may include two opaque masking layers having differing properties or a single phase separated opaque masking layer.

Pixel Optical Structures for Display Optical Efficiency (18161764)

Inventor Young Cheol Yang

Brief explanation

The abstract describes an electronic device with a display that uses inorganic light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The display can have a polarizer layer, or it can be a polarizer-free display. Each LED is surrounded by a diffuser that directs light towards the viewer. Optional components like a top diffuser, color filter layer, microlens, or a combination of these may also be present. The LEDs have reflective sidewalls to reduce unwanted light emissions. The display may include opaque masking layers to reduce reflections, and these layers can have different properties or be a single phase separated layer.

Abstract

An electronic device may have a display with an array of inorganic light-emitting diodes. The array of inorganic light-emitting diodes may be overlapped by a polarizer layer such as a circular polarizer. Alternatively, the display may be a polarizer-free display without any polarizer layer over the array of inorganic light-emitting diodes. Each inorganic light-emitting diode may be surrounded by a diffuser that redirects edge-emissions towards a viewer. A top diffuser, a color filter layer, a microlens, and/or a microlens with color filtering and/or diffusive properties may also optionally overlap each inorganic light-emitting diode. The inorganic light-emitting diodes may have reflective sidewalls to mitigate edge-emissions. In this type of arrangement, the array of inorganic light-emitting diodes may be coplanar with one or more opaque masking layers. To mitigate reflections, the display may include two opaque masking layers having differing properties or a single phase separated opaque masking layer.

BATTERY PACK STRUCTURES AND SYSTEMS (18327648)

Inventor Nivay Anandarajah

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a type of battery pack that includes a long beam and multiple battery cells. Each battery cell has a first surface facing the beam, a second surface opposite the first surface, and a third surface connecting the first and second surfaces. The battery cells also have a fourth surface opposite the third surface. The pack includes a lid attached to the first surface of each battery cell and a base attached to the second surface of each battery cell.

Abstract

Battery packs according to some embodiments of the present technology may include a longitudinal beam. The packs may include a plurality of battery cells disposed adjacent the longitudinal beam. Each battery cell may be characterized by a first surface, and a second surface opposite the first surface. Each battery cell may be characterized by a third surface extending vertically between the first surface and the second surface. The first surface may face the longitudinal beam, and battery terminals may extend from the third surface. Each battery cell may be characterized by a fourth surface opposite the third surface. The packs may include a lid coupled with the first surface of each battery cell of the plurality of battery cells. The packs may include a base coupled with the second surface of each battery cell of the plurality of battery cells.

Wireless Power Systems With Foreign Object Detection (18327721)

Inventor Adam L. Schwartz

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a wireless power system that consists of a device that transmits power wirelessly and a device that receives the power. The transmitting device uses a coil to send out signals of wireless power to the receiving device. It also has the ability to detect if there is an external object present, which could be something like a coin or paperclip, or another device that can receive the wireless power. The detection of external objects is done by measuring the quality factor. To differentiate between foreign objects and receiving devices, wireless communication is used. The system also takes into account factors like aging and temperature by using temperature measurements and compensation factors based on frequency and resistance.

Abstract

A wireless power system has a wireless power transmitting device and a wireless power receiving device. The wireless power transmitting device uses a wireless power transmitting coil to transmit wireless power signals to the wireless power receiving device. The wireless power transmitting device determines whether an external object is present. The external object may be a foreign object such as a coin or paperclip or may be a wireless power receiving device. External objects are detected using quality-factor measurements. Wireless communications are used to discriminate between foreign objects and wireless power receiving devices. Quality factor measurements may be compensated for aging and temperature effects using temperature measurements and compensation factors based on frequency and measured resistance.

Wireless Power Systems With Foreign Object Detection (18327750)

Inventor Adam L. Schwartz

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a wireless power system that consists of a transmitting device and a receiving device. The transmitting device uses a coil to send wireless power signals to the receiving device. It can determine if there is an external object present, which could be a foreign object like a coin or paperclip, or another wireless power receiving device. The system uses quality-factor measurements to detect external objects, and wireless communications to differentiate between foreign objects and receiving devices. The measurements can be adjusted for aging and temperature effects using temperature measurements and compensation factors based on frequency and resistance.

Abstract

A wireless power system has a wireless power transmitting device and a wireless power receiving device. The wireless power transmitting device uses a wireless power transmitting coil to transmit wireless power signals to the wireless power receiving device. The wireless power transmitting device determines whether an external object is present. The external object may be a foreign object such as a coin or paperclip or may be a wireless power receiving device. External objects are detected using quality-factor measurements. Wireless communications are used to discriminate between foreign objects and wireless power receiving devices. Quality factor measurements may be compensated for aging and temperature effects using temperature measurements and compensation factors based on frequency and measured resistance.

DUPLEXER WITH IMPEDANCE INVERTERS (18327705)

Inventor Joonhoi Hur

Brief explanation

The abstract describes the use of a device called a duplexer, which is used to separate a transmitter and a receiver that share the same antenna. The duplexer achieves this by using impedance gradients to create impedances that cause balance-unbalance transformers (balun) to block access to the common antenna, rather than duplicating the antenna impedance. This balanced approach results in lower insertion loss compared to a duplexer that simply duplicates the antenna impedance to separate the signals from the transmitter and receiver.

Abstract

A duplexer may be used to isolate a transmitter and a receiver that share a common antenna. By using impedance gradients to provide impedances that cause balance-unbalance transformers (balun) of the duplexer to cut-off access to the common antenna rather than duplicate the antenna impedance, the duplexer is balanced. Such cut-offs may have a lower insertion loss than a duplexer that merely duplicates the antenna impedance to separate the differential signals of the receiver and transmitter from the common mode signal.

CONTROLLING A MEDIA DEVICE USING A MOBILE DEVICE (18192999)

Inventor Andy BELK

Brief explanation

This abstract describes techniques for automatically setting up and controlling a digital media device using a mobile device. The digital media device can send a signal to nearby mobile devices, indicating that it needs configuration information. The mobile device can then perform security checks to ensure the request is legitimate and establish a communication channel with the digital media device. The mobile device can provide user preferences and credentials for accessing remote content to the digital media device through this channel. The digital media device can then use the provided configuration information to adjust its settings accordingly.

Abstract

Techniques for automatically configuring and controlling a digital media device are described. A digital media device can be configured or controlled by a mobile device, e.g., a smart mobile phone. When the digital media device is being configured, the digital media device can broadcast a signal, indicating that the digital media device is requesting configuration information from a mobile device. A mobile device located in proximity of the digital media device, upon detecting the signal, can perform various security checks to determine that the request is legitimate, and then open a communication channel with the digital media device. The mobile device can provide user preferences of the mobile device, as well as credentials for accessing and downloading remote content, to the digital media device through the communication channel. Upon receiving the configuration information, the digital media device can use parameters in the configuration information as its settings.

Codebook Subset Restriction for Enhanced Type II Channel State Information Reporting (18320839)

Inventor Yu Zhang

Brief explanation

This abstract discusses a communication system where a base station sends a restriction to a device regarding the codebook subset it can use. This restriction includes limitations on frequency and spatial aspects. The device then uses this restriction to transmit channel state information back to the base station. The restriction may also include a maximum allowed amplitude for weighting coefficients associated with the precoding matrix used by the base station and the device. The number of frequency bases and compression units can be determined based on factors like the number of antennas and subbands.

Abstract

A base station may transmit to a device an indication of codebook subset restriction (CBSR), which includes at least a restriction on a frequency basis. The device may receive the indication of CBSR, and may transmit to the base station channel state information (CSI) according to the received indication of CBSR. The indication of CBSR may also include a restriction on a spatial basis and restrict the device from reporting the CSI based on a subset of the frequency basis in addition to the spatial basis per configuration of the base station. The indication of CBSR may include a separately configured maximum allowed amplitude of a weighting coefficient for the spatial basis and the frequency basis, where the weighting coefficient is associated with a column vector of a precoding matrix used by the base station and the device. The number of frequency bases and the frequency compression units may be determined based on a number of different criteria, for example the number of antennas, the number of subbands, etc.

Synchronization in a Multiuser Experience (18189403)

Inventor Luis R. Deliz Centeno

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a method for enhancing collaboration in a multiuser communication session. It involves detecting when a user interacts with a virtual object in the session, where multiple devices are involved. The state information, which includes the details of the interaction, is synchronized between the devices. However, when an interaction occurs, the synchronization is temporarily paused on the device where the interaction took place. This leads to inconsistencies between the representations of the session on the different devices.

Abstract

Facilitating collaboration in a multiuser communication session includes detecting initiation of an interaction between a user of a first device and a virtual object in a multiuser communication session, where the first device and a second device are active in the multiuser communication session, and where state information is synchronized among the first device and second device in the multiuser communication session. In accordance with detecting the initiation of an interaction between the user and the virtual object, synchronization of state information is suspended by the first device, where the state information is related to the interaction between the user and the virtual object. A representation of the multiuser communication session at the first device and a representation of the multiuser communication session at the second device are inconsistent in accordance with the suspended synchronization of the state information.

Asymmetric Presentation of an Environment (18189449)

Inventor Luis R. Deliz Centeno

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a method for collaborating in a multi-user communication environment. It involves receiving data from a communication session between two users, displaying a graphical user interface on one user's device, showing a virtual object and the other user's representation, and updating the interface to reflect interactions between the other user and the virtual object based on the received data.

Abstract

The disclosure pertains to techniques for collaborating in a multi user communications environment. One such technique includes receiving, at a first communication device, data associated with a multi user communication session between a first user of the first communication device and a second user of a second communication device, presenting, at the first communication device, a non-extended reality graphical user interface (GUI), the non-extended reality GUI including a non-extended reality representation of a virtual object included in the multi user communication session and a representation of the second user based on the data associated with the multi user communication session, and updating, at the first communication device, the non-extended reality GUI to illustrate an interaction between the representation of the second user and the virtual object in response to the data indicating the interaction.

METHODS AND USER INTERFACES FOR INITIATING COMMUNICATIONS (18201411)

Inventor Pablo F. CARO

Brief explanation

The abstract above describes methods and user interfaces for setting up communication channels. It does not provide any exaggerated claims or titles.

Abstract

The present disclosure generally relates to methods and user interfaces for establishing communications.

Recommended Avatar Placement in an Environmental Representation of a Multi-User Communication Session (18189409)

Inventor Nicholas W. Henderson

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a method for determining the best placement of avatars in a multi-user communication session. This is done by gathering information about the user's physical environment, such as its geometry. The activity type of the communication session is also taken into account. Based on this information, a recommended placement for the user's avatar is determined. This recommendation is then displayed in the representation of the communication session's environment.

Abstract

Recommended avatar placement in a multi-user communication session may include obtaining geometric information associated with a physical environment of a user of a communication device participating in a multi-user communication session; determining an activity type for the multi-user communication session; determining a recommended avatar placement for the user based on the geometric information and the activity type; and displaying an indication of the recommended avatar placement in an environmental representation of the multi-user communication session.

DYNAMIC PROFILE AND RADIO ACCESS TECHNOLOGY SELECTION BASED ON APPLICATION NETWORK SLICE REQUIREMENTS (17656216)

Inventor Rohit R. MATOLIA

Brief explanation

This abstract discusses the use of wireless communications technology, specifically focusing on methods and devices that allow for the dynamic selection of SIM profiles, eSIM profiles, multi-SIM operating modes, and wireless access networks. The abstract mentions that a wireless device can have multiple SIM/eSIM profiles and can switch between them, change between dual SIM operating modes, and select a registration mode based on the requirements of the applications being used and the availability of network slices through different wireless networks.

Abstract

Embodiments described herein relate to wireless communications, including methods and apparatus for dynamically selecting subscriber identity module (SIM) profiles, electronic SIM (eSIM) profiles, multi-SIM operating modes, and/or wireless access networks for network slice based applications of wireless devices. A wireless device can include at least two SIM/eSIM profiles and switch use of SIM/eSIM profiles, change between dual SIM operating modes, and/or select a registration mode based on requirements of one or more applications in use and availability of network slices via different wireless networks.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR USER AUTHENTICATED DEVICES (18189815)

Inventor Michael J. Oudenhoven

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a system that uses a wearable device to authenticate a user. The wearable device can detect the direction in which the user is looking. It then checks if the user's gaze meets a certain condition based on the location of another device. If the condition is met, the wearable device transfers information to the other device.

Abstract

A system for user authentication can include a wearable device configured to detect an orientation of user's gaze. The wearable device can determine whether the orientation of the user's gaze satisfies a condition based at least in part on the location of a companion device, and transfer information to the companion device in response to determining whether the orientation of the user's gaze satisfies the condition.

Shared Spectrum Monitoring (18121390)

Inventor Alexander Sirotkin

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a user equipment (UE) device that is part of the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP). The UE has a wireless transceiver and a processor. The processor can receive a configuration that includes information about what needs to be measured and reported. The measurement object in the configuration identifies a shared spectrum resource. The processor can monitor this shared spectrum resource using the wireless transceiver to see if it is being used by non-3GPP radio technology devices. If it is being used, the processor can transmit a report about this usage according to the reporting configuration using the wireless transceiver.

Abstract

A 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) user equipment (UE) includes a wireless transceiver and a processor. The processor is configured to receive, via the wireless transceiver, a measurement configuration including a measurement object and a reporting configuration. The measurement object identifies at least one shared spectrum resource. The processor is also configured to monitor the at least one shared spectrum resource, via the wireless transceiver, for use by non-3GPP radio technology devices; and transmit, in accord with the reporting configuration and via the wireless transceiver, a report on the use of the at least one shared spectrum resource by non-3GPP radio technology devices.

Crowd Sourced Privacy Preserving Access Point Mapping (18187003)

Inventor Rachid Kachemir

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a system that uses privacy-preserving techniques to map access points and improve network efficiency. User devices send reports to a server with information about access points they have connected to, without revealing their exact locations. The server uses this data to generate network topologies, locations, quality scores, and other characteristics. This information is then provided to user devices to help them interact more efficiently with access points and networks.

Abstract

In some implementations, a computing system can perform crowd sourced access point mapping using privacy preserving techniques. For example, a server device can receive access point data reports from multiple user devices that includes various attributes and/or measurements with respect to access points with which the user devices have established connections. The access point data reports can be delivered without identifying the user devices, or users thereof, and their exact locations. Based on the access point data reports, the server device can map locations of access points and relationships between access points to generate network topologies, network locations, network quality scores, and various other characteristics of networks and/or access points. The generated access point data can be served to user devices so that the user devices can improve the efficiency of the interactions between user devices and the detected access points and/or networks.

Design for XR Traffic Information Indication (17989424)

Inventor Weidong Yang

Brief explanation

This abstract describes methods, devices, and systems for providing traffic information for a specific type of data traffic group, specifically in the context of 3GPP XR communications. A user equipment (UE), such as a mobile device, can send a traffic flow that contains data of a particular type, like video, audio, or control/pose data, generated by an application running on the UE, such as an augmented reality app. The traffic flow consists of bursts of data traffic groups, where each group contains multiple data packets that make up a functional set of data, for example, the data needed to encode a single video frame. The UE can generate and transmit traffic information to a base station, which includes details about the nature, status, performance, and limitations of the data traffic group. The base station can then use this traffic information to make informed scheduling decisions for the data traffic group.

Abstract

Methods, apparatuses, and systems are disclosed for providing traffic information pertaining to a data traffic group, e.g., for use in 3GPP XR communications. A UE may transmit a traffic flow including data of a certain type (e.g., video, audio, control/pose) generated by an application implemented on the UE, such as an augmented reality application. The traffic flow may include bursts of data traffic groups, wherein each group includes a plurality of data packets containing a functional set of data, such as data for encoding a single video frame. A UE may generate and transmit, to a base station, traffic information regarding the nature, status, performance, and/or constraints of the data traffic group. The base station may use the traffic information to make intelligent scheduling decisions regarding the data traffic group.

PERSONAL INTERNET-OF-THINGS NETWORK DISCOVERY (18188636)

Inventor Sudeep MANITHARA VAMANAN

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a network element in the Internet of Things (IoT) called a PIN. This PIN element can receive an announcement from a management device called PEMC. The announcement includes information such as the PIN identifier, a list of services available through the PIN, and a time limit for responding. In response to the announcement, the PIN element sends a join request to the PEMC, specifying the services it can provide. The PIN element then receives a join accept message from the PEMC, which includes a unique identifier assigned to the PIN element.

Abstract

A Internet of things (IoT) network (PIN) element is configured to receive, from a PIN element management capability (PEMC) device, an announcement comprising a PIN identifier, a list of services available via the PIN and a time limit for responding to the announcement, send, to the PEMC in response to the announcement, a PIN join request comprising one or more services provided by the PIN element and receive, from the PEMC in response to the PIN join request, a PIN join accept message comprising a PIN Element Identifier assigned to the PIN element.

PROXIMITY ESTIMATION FOR UNIVERSAL CONTROL (17931842)

Inventor Benjamin A. Werner

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a method where a first electronic device detects a triggering condition to control a second electronic device. When the triggering condition is detected, the first device increases the rate of transmission of wireless signals and sends them out. The second device responds to these signals, and based on the responses, a distance measurement is determined. If the distance is below a certain threshold, control of certain components of either device can be enabled by the other device.

Abstract

In some aspects a first electronic device may detect a triggering condition for enabling control of a second electronic device. Upon detection of the triggering condition, the method can include determining an increased rate of transmission of advertising signals of a wireless protocol transmitted from a wireless transceiver of the first electronic device. The method can include transmitting a plurality of advertising wireless signals at the increased rate using the wireless protocol. The method can include receiving, from the second electronic device, one or more responses to the advertising wireless signals. The method can include determining a distance measurement based on the one or more responses. Responsive to the distance measurement being less than a threshold value, the method can include enabling control of one or more components of the first electronic device or the second electronic device by the other device. Numerous other aspects are described.

Power Efficient Downlink Control Information Framework for Cellular Communication (18325821)

Inventor Johnson O. Sebeni

Brief explanation

This disclosure is about a power efficient way of performing cellular communication. It involves a wireless device and a cellular base station exchanging information to indicate that they both support a sleep downlink control information (sDCI) format. They then negotiate an sDCI configuration, which includes selecting parameters based on the type of application being used for communication. The downlink control information is provided during specific subframes according to the sDCI configuration. Additionally, subframes where no downlink control information will be provided to the wireless device are determined based on the sDCI configuration.

Abstract

This disclosure relates to performing cellular communication using a power efficient downlink control information framework. A wireless device and a cellular base station may exchange configuration information indicating that the cellular base station and the wireless device support a sleep downlink control information (sDCI) format. An sDCI configuration according to the sDCI format may be negotiated, including selecting at least one sDCI configuration parameter based at least in part on an application type currently associated with cellular communication between the cellular base station and the wireless device. Downlink control information may be provided during one or more subframes in accordance with the sDCI configuration. One or more subframes for which no downlink control information will be provided to the wireless device may be determined based at least in part on the sDCI configuration.

USER ALERT FOR CHANGE IN NETWORK COVERAGE (18190196)

Inventor Anikethan Ramakrishna VIJAYA KUMAR

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a user equipment (UE) that can detect when there is a change in network coverage while it is connected to a certain type of network. When the UE detects this change, it will activate a feature that alerts the user about the change in network coverage. The UE will then identify the specific change from the initial network coverage to a different type of network coverage and generate an alert to inform the user about this change. The purpose of the alert is to notify the user of the UE about the change in network coverage.

Abstract

A user equipment (UE) is configured to identify a user event while the UE is in a first type of network coverage, wherein the UE enables a feature configured to alert a user to a change in network coverage in response to the user event, identify the change in network coverage from the first type of network coverage to a second type of network coverage and generate an alert in response to identifying the change in network coverage, wherein the alert is configured to notify a user of the UE to the change in network coverage.

Multiple TTI PUSCH Transmissions in a Wireless Communication System (18320812)

Inventor Hong He

Brief explanation

The abstract describes a system and method for a user equipment device (UE) to perform multiple transmissions in a wireless communication system. The UE can configure a data structure with transmission configurations for the physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH) that span multiple time transmission intervals (TTIs). The UE receives a message from the network entity that includes a time domain resource assignment field (TDRA) indicating the set of transmission configurations to use. The UE then performs the PUSCH transmissions according to the indicated set of configurations over an unlicensed band.

Abstract

Apparatuses, systems, and methods for a user equipment device (UE) to perform multiple TTI PUSCH transmissions in a wireless communication system as well as code block groups (CBGs) based retransmissions operations. A UE may perform radio resource control (RRC) signaling with a network entity to configure a data structure that may include one or more sets of physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH) transmission configurations, where each set of PUSCH transmission configurations span multiple TTIs. The wireless device may be configured to receive, from the network entity, a downlink control information (DCI) message that may include a time domain resource assignment field (TDRA) that may indicate a set of PUSCH transmission configurations included in the data structure. The wireless device may perform PUSCH transmissions spanning multiple TTIs according to the indicated set of PUSCH transmission configurations over an unlicensed band.

USER EQUIPMENT AND METHODS OF BEARER OPERATION FOR CARRIER AGGREGATION (18202682)

Inventor Yujian Zhang

Brief explanation

This abstract describes a User Equipment (UE) that can connect to both a Master Evolved Node-B (MeNB) and a Secondary eNB (SeNB) simultaneously. The UE can receive data packets from both the MeNB and the SeNB through a split data radio bearer (DRB). The control functionality for the split DRB is divided between the MeNB and the SeNB. The UE also receives an indicator specifying which eNB it should use to transmit uplink traffic packets as part of the split DRB. Based on this indicator, the UE transmits the uplink traffic packets to the specified eNB, which can be either the MeNB or the SeNB.

Abstract

Embodiments of a User Equipment (UE) to support dual-connectivity with a Master Evolved Node-B (MeNB) and a Secondary eNB (SeNB) are disclosed herein. The UE may receive downlink traffic packets from the MeNB and from the SeNB as part of a split data radio bearer (DRB). At least a portion of control functionality for the split DRB may be performed at each of the MeNB and the SeNB. The UE may receive an uplink eNB indicator for an uplink eNB to which the UE is to transmit uplink traffic packets as part of the split DRB. Based at least partly on the uplink eNB indicator, the UE may transmit uplink traffic packets to the uplink eNB as part of the split DRB. The uplink eNB may be selected from a group that includes the MeNB and the SeNB.