6,065,880
`[11] Patent Number:
`[19]
`United States Patent
`
`Thompson
`[45] Date of Patent:
`May 23, 2000
`
`USOO6065880A
`
`[54] LASER ENHANCED PERSONAL DATA
`ASSISTANT
`
`Primary Examiner—John D. Lee
`Attorney, Agent, or Firm—Workman, Nydegger & Seeley
`
`[75]
`
`Inventor: Curtis Thompson, Salt Lake City, Utah
`
`[57]
`
`ABSTRACT
`
`[73] Assignee: 3Com Corporation, Santa Clara, Calif.
`
`[21] Appl. No.: 09/036,851
`.
`.
`Mar. 9’ 1998
`Flled'
`[22]
`Int. Cl.7 ...................................................... G06F 13/00
`[51]
`[52] US. Cl.
`................................ 385/88; 235/454; 710/72
`[58] Field of Search ........................... 385/88, 89, 92—94;
`372/109; 235/462, 472, 454; 710/62, 63,
`72—74
`
`[56]
`
`_
`References Clted
`U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
`
`9/1997 Postman et a1.
`5,664,231
`.......................... 710/73
`9/1997 Postman et a1.
`5,671,374
`...... 710/129
`
`5,675,524 10/1997 Bernard ................ 708/109
`
`7/1998 Darbee ...................................... 710/72
`5,778,256
`
`An adapter having an L-shaped housing is configured for
`removable attachment to a conventional PDA. The adapter
`is electrically coupled with the PDA and includes a laser or
`other light source configured to selectively emanate a light
`beam that can be modified into a digital signal. The digital
`signal can be received by a photo detector on a computer for
`facilitating a download of data from the PDA to the com-
`puter. The light beam from the laser can also be used as a
`presentation pointer. The adapter further includes a photo
`detector Which is selectively positioned relative to the laser
`so that the light beam from the laser can be reflected off a bar
`code and received by the photo detector. The reflected signal
`is then converted to a digital signal which is then forwarded
`to the PDA for storage or access of other corresponding
`information.
`
`20 Claims, 5 Drawing Sheets
`
`
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - EX. 1013, p. l
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - Ex. 1013, p. 1
`
`

`

`US. Patent
`
`May 23, 2000
`
`Sheet 1 0f 5
`
`6,065,880
`
`
`
`FIG.
`
`1
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - EX. 1013, p. 2
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - Ex. 1013, p. 2
`
`

`

`US. Patent
`
`May 23, 2000
`
`Sheet 2 0f 5
`
`6,065,880
`
`m
`
`w
`
`2
`
`52
`
`
`II“_|||||n
`
` 55::__3:3_22:_asu:5:_12;;u_|I..._llll
`
`n_zsg_I
`
`zzo2aa
`
`“23:0mofiwvsHa:Iv22:e
`
`e04<z<
`
`
`
`W3332..$322802;;355;.
`
`2
`
`N.0:
`
`23:323:28
`
`NF
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - EX. 1013, p. 3
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - Ex. 1013, p. 3
`
`
`
`
`

`

`60a6
`
`0
`
`mam.s,mo:
`
`US. Patent
`
`8.,
`
`mm
`
`
`
`w___;_:________:___
`
`noem5vM_-IAn---o___m0¢30mNewmug"Etc:“10:;w"fig3.3
`
`3..E2.2.:8*:mz
`
`pm«082.32:93
`
`.3mohmm>zoo
`
`“use;
`
`mo¢20m
`
`ow
`
`mm
`
`mm
`
`egg:
`
`memmmoozm
`
`mo<mmmhz_
`
`mohomzzoo
`
`mm
`
`N«
`
`O?
`
`on
`
`NV
`
`Jomhon
`
`mZOFPDm
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - EX. 1013, p. 4
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - Ex. 1013, p. 4
`
`
`
`
`
`

`

`US. Patent
`
`n,
`
`0,6
`
`0w
`
`Ws
`nIi_:33ui_Ҥ__12.5____IL.
`
`-t»,gz.23ng-It
`
`529.
`
`
`
`
`
`0mgzmnwoflm”8.85.3«8382m1238:22:as;
`
`5,.6Va:
`
`Io«20::255I422a2w8::$2
`aH35:28
`
`a
`
`NVAomhzoo
`
`”ZOHPDQ
`
`9*
`
`mm
`
`mo<mzmpz_
`
`¢0P0mzzoo
`
`on
`
`oP
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - EX. 1013, p. 5
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - Ex. 1013, p. 5
`
`
`
`
`

`

`US. Patent
`
`May 23, 2000
`
`Sheet 5 0f 5
`
`6,065,880
`
`
`
`FIG.
`
`5
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - EX. 1013, p. 6
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - Ex. 1013, p. 6
`
`

`

`6,065,880
`
`1
`LASER ENHANCED PERSONAL DATA
`ASSISTANT
`
`BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
`
`1. The Field of the Invention
`
`The present invention relates to personal data assistants
`(PDAs) and, more specifically, PDAs or adapters therefor
`with enhanced data transmission and receiving capabilities.
`2. Present State of the Art
`
`Personal data assistants (hereinafter “PDAs”) are small,
`substantially hand-sized computers that are used for storing,
`manipulating, and retrieving a defined amount of data. One
`example of a PDA is the PalmPilot® manufactured by
`3Com. The PalmPilot® functions primarily as an electronic
`day planner and address recorder.
`Although PDAs are increasing in popularity, they still
`have several shortcomings which limit
`their use. For
`example, transferring data between a PDA and a personal or
`network computer is accomplished by physically electrically
`coupling a cradle to the host computer. The FDA is then
`physically electrically coupled to the cradle. Software
`loaded in the host computer is then used to access the PDA
`and download or upload information therebetween. This
`process is somewhat time consuming and annoying when all
`that is wanted is to quickly download or dump information
`from the PDA into the computer. The problem is exacerbated
`when it is needed to frequently download information.
`Another shortcoming of conventional PDAs is that it is
`difficult and time consuming to manually input data into the
`PDA. PDAs typically do not have a keyboard. Information
`is thus manually input by either using a special pen to scribe
`letters onto a screen or by selecting letters or numbers
`displayed on the screen. Such inputing of data can be
`extremely laborious and time consuming.
`OBJECTS AND BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE
`INVENTION
`
`Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to
`provide PDAs and/or adapters for PDAs that can quickly
`and easily download information into a host computer
`without having to physically electrically couple the PDA to
`the host computer.
`Yet another object of the present invention is to provide
`PDAs and/or adapters for PDAs that can be used to quickly
`input data into the PDA.
`To achieve the foregoing objectives, and in accordance
`with the invention as embodied and broadly described
`herein, an adapter for a PDA is provided. The adapter has a
`substantially L-shaped housing that can be physically and
`electrically coupled with a conventional PDA. Disposed
`within the housing of the adapter is a micro processor and a
`light source which are energized by enclosed batteries. In
`one embodiment,
`the light source is a laser. In another
`embodiment, the light source is a light emitting diode.
`The light source emits a light beam which can be con-
`verted into a digital signal. This can be accomplished by
`using a switch which turns the light source on and off.
`Alternatively, a liquid crystal display (LCD) can be posi-
`tioned in front of the light source which can then be
`selectively turned on and off to block the light beam.
`When it is desired to download the data stored on the
`
`PDA, the micro processor in the adapter transmits a corre-
`sponding series of digital pulses using the light source.
`These pulses are received by a photo detector of a host
`computer. The photo detector is coupled with a processor
`
`10
`
`15
`
`20
`
`25
`
`30
`
`35
`
`40
`
`45
`
`50
`
`55
`
`60
`
`65
`
`2
`which receives, processes, and stores the data stream. The
`adapter can thus be used to download information from the
`PDA to a host computer without effecting a physical elec-
`trical connection therebetween.
`
`The adapter can also be used to automatically input bar
`code readings into the PDA. In this embodiment, the light
`source emits a thin highly culminated light beam such as that
`used in conventional scanners. By manually moving the
`combined PDA and adapter, the light beam is scanned across
`the bar code. Aphoto detector is mounted on the adapter and
`is positioned such that the portion of the light beam reflect-
`ing off the bar code is received by the photo detector as an
`analog signal. The analog signal is then converted into a
`digital signal which is subsequently forwarded to the micro-
`processor and subsequently to the PDA.
`As a result of being able to scan bar code readings into the
`PDA, the functionality of the PDA is substantially increased.
`For example,
`the PDA can now effectively be used for
`monitoring and controlling inventory or other products on
`which bar codes can be positioned.
`the
`is envisioned that
`In yet another embodiment,
`it
`electronics of the adapter can be integrally incorporated into
`a PDA so as to eliminate the need for the adapter. However,
`the adapter is advantageous in retrofitting to existing PDAs.
`Furthermore, by using the removable adapter, the size of the
`PDA can be kept to a minimum.
`These and other objects, features, and advantages of the
`present invention will become more fully apparent from the
`following description and appended claims, or may be
`learned by the practice of the invention as set forth herein-
`after.
`
`BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
`
`In order that the manner in which the above-recited and
`
`other advantages and objects of the invention are obtained,
`a more particular description of the invention briefly
`described above will be rendered by reference to specific
`embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended
`drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only
`typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore
`to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the invention will
`be described and explained with additional specificity and
`detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in
`which:
`
`FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a PDA separated
`from an adapter;
`FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the components of the
`adapter shown in FIG. 1 and components of a computer;
`FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the adapter shown in FIG. 1
`interacting with a bar code;
`FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the adapter shown in FIG. 1
`interacting with a remote controllable device; and
`FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a PDA incorporating the
`electronics of the adapter shown in the FIG. 1.
`DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE
`PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
`
`Depicted in FIG. 1 is one embodiment of an inventive
`adapter 10 for use with a conventional PDA 12. PDAs come
`in a variety of makes, styles, and configurations. In one
`embodiment of the present invention, PDA 12 includes a
`PalmPilot® made by 3Com. PDA 12 includes a low profile
`box shaped case or housing 9 having a front face 14
`extending from a top end 16 to a bottom end 18. Mounted
`on front face 14 is a display screen 19. Positioned at bottom
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - Ex. 1013, p. 7
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - Ex. 1013, p. 7
`
`

`

`6,065,880
`
`3
`end 18 are control buttons 22. Disposed within housing 9 is
`a micro processor 11 coupled with memory 13 such as
`RAM, and batteries 15 for powering the system. The micro-
`processor interacts with an operating system that runs selec-
`tive software depending on the intended use of PDA 12. In
`one conventional use, memory 13 is loaded with software
`code for operating an electronic day planner and address
`notebook.
`
`Adapter 10 has a substantially L-shaped housing 24 which
`comprises a base 26 and an arm 28. Arm 28 extends to a free
`end 30. In one embodiment, a support back 21 extends
`between base 26 and arm 28. The present invention also
`includes means for removably coupling adapter 10 to PDA
`12. By way of example and not limitation, bottom end 18 of
`PDA 12 includes a tapered section 20. Recessed within base
`26 is a complimentary socket 32. Socket 32 is configured to
`receive tapered section 20 so as to removably secure PDA 12
`is to adapter 10. Of course, there are a variety of alternative
`configurations which can be used for helping to secure PDA
`12 within socket 32. For example, spring biased members or
`interlocking ridges can be used for further facilitating the
`connection. In yet other alternative embodiments, there are
`a variety of different latches, straps, and connectors that can
`be used for securely holding PDA 12 to adapter 10.
`Means are also provided for effecting electrical commu-
`nication between PDA 12 and adapter 10. By way of
`example and not limitation, a first interface connector 34 is
`mounted to bottom 18 of PDA 12. First interface connector
`
`34 is electrically coupled with the circuitry within PDA 12.
`Disposed within socket 32 of adapter 10 is a second interface
`connector 36. Interface connectors 34 and 36 are configured
`to electrically couple together when PDA 12 is coupled to
`adapter 10.
`Interface connectors 34 and 36 permit
`the
`transfer of electronic data between PDA 12 and housing 10.
`In one embodiment, interface connectors 34 and 36 com-
`prise an RS232 connection.
`FIG. 2 in part depicts a functional block diagram of the
`electrical system of adapter 10. As depicted therein, inter-
`face connector 36 is electrically coupled with a micro
`processor 38. Micro processor 38 and the other electrical
`components are driven by a power source 40.
`In one
`embodiment, power source 40 can comprise the same type
`of battery system as used in a conventional PDA. Micro
`processor 38 is selectively operated by a series of control
`buttons 42. Control buttons 42 can be positioned on adapter
`10 and/or on PDA 12. In an alternative embodiment, micro
`processor 38 can be eliminated. In this embodiment,
`the
`processing functions would be handled by micro processor
`11 within PDA 12.
`
`In one embodiment, a light source 44 is electrically
`coupled with micro processor 38. In other embodiments,
`light source 44 can be directly coupled with power source
`40. As depicted in FIG. 1, light source 44 is preferably
`positioned within arm 28 so as to emit a light beam 47 out
`through a window 46 at free end 30.
`Light source 44 can have a variety of configurations. For
`example, in one embodiment light source 44 can be a simple
`light emitting diode such as an infrared emitter. In another
`embodiment, light source 44 can comprise a laser. In one
`embodiment, the laser can comprise a red light emitting laser
`wherein the light is sufficiently collimated that the laser can
`be used as a conventional laser display pointer for use in
`lectures or presentations.
`Also depicted in FIG. 2 is a simple block diagram of a
`host computer 70 such as a personal computer or a network
`computer. Computer 70 includes a photo detector 72
`
`10
`
`15
`
`20
`
`25
`
`30
`
`35
`
`40
`
`45
`
`50
`
`55
`
`60
`
`65
`
`4
`coupled to a processor 74 through an amplifier 76. A light
`emitting diode 78 is also electrically coupled to processor 74
`and is operated by a driver 80.
`Where light source 44 is used for downloading informa-
`tion from PDA 12 to host computer 70, means are also
`provided for converting light beam 47 into a digital signal.
`This can be accomplished in a variety of different ways. As
`depicted in FIG. 2, by way of example and not limitation, a
`switch 48 can be positioned between micro processor 38 and
`light source 44. Micro processor 38 operates switch 48 to
`turn light source 44 off and on at select high frequency
`intervals such that light beam 47 emitted from light source
`44 is converted into a digital signal. The digital signal is
`transmitted to photo detector 72 of computer 70 and subse-
`quently decoded by processor 74. Where light source 44 is
`a laser, the above configuration can be used to download
`data from PDA 12 to host computer 70 over an extended
`distance. In one embodiment, light source can be used to
`download data to host computer 70 over a distance greater
`than about two feet, preferably greater than about five feet,
`and more preferably greater than about ten feet.
`The transfer is accomplished by aiming light beam 47 at
`photo detector 72 and then pressing a select control button
`42 that instructs micro processor 38 to transfer the stored
`data in PDA 12 in digital format using light beam 47. Where
`light source 44 is simply a light emitting diode, or other
`non-collimated light source, adapter 10 and PDA 12 may
`have to be set down close to photo detector 72 and aligned
`therewith before attempting to transfer the data. In either
`event, data is quickly and effectively downloaded from PDA
`12 to computer 70 without the required use of a cradle or
`other physical electrical connection.
`In yet another alternative embodiment for converting light
`beam 47 from light source 44 into a digital signal, rather than
`using switch 48, a liquid crystal display (LCD) 52 is
`positioned within adapter 10 in the path of light beam 47.
`LCD 52 is controlled to turn on and off by micro processor
`38. When LCD 52 is on, LCD 52 blocks light beam 47 from
`emanating from adapter 10. Conversely, when LCD 52 is
`off,
`light beam 47 freely emanates from adapter 10.
`Accordingly, by micro processor 38 turning LCD 52 on and
`off at select high frequencies, light beam 47 is converted into
`digital signals for being received by photo detector 72.
`If desired, comparable technology can also be used to
`upload data from computer 70 to PDA 12. By way of
`example, adapter 10 can include a photo detector 56 that is
`coupled with micro processor 38 through an amplifier 57.
`Digital signals transmitted by LED 78 are received by photo
`detector 56 and subsequently decoded by micro processor 38
`or are transferred to PDA 12 for decoding.
`Adapter 10 can also be configured for reading a bar code
`54. For example, as depicted in FIGS. 1 and 3, photo
`detector 56 is positioned at free end 30 of arm 28 adjacent
`to window 46. Photo detector 56 is electrically coupled to an
`analog to digital converter 58 which is coupled with micro
`controller 38 through amplifier 57. Light source 44 and
`photo detector 56 are selectively positioned such that as light
`beam 47 is manually scanned across bar code 54, a portion
`61 of light beam 47 is reflected off of the reflective sections
`of bar code 54 and is received by photo detector 56. Portion
`61 of light beam 47 detected by photo detector 56 is in an
`analog signal which is converted to a digital signal by
`converter 58. The signal is then transferred to microproces-
`sor 38 for decoding and subsequently sent to PDA 12. In this
`embodiment, light source 44 emits a thin highly collimated
`light beam 47 such as those used in conventional scanners.
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - Ex. 1013, p. 8
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - Ex. 1013, p. 8
`
`

`

`6,065,880
`
`5
`By using the above configuration, bar codes can be
`quickly entered into PDA 12 without having to manually
`input the information. Depending on the intended use and
`operational software, PDA 12 can either simply store the bar
`code reading or can be used to access other information
`based on the bar code reading. By using adapter 10, PDA 12
`can be used for inventory control or in other situations where
`bar codes can be used.
`
`Adapter 10 can also interact with PDA 12 to facilitate
`operation of a remote-controllable device such as a
`television, VCR, or stereo. As depicted in FIG. 4, a remote-
`controllable device 80 is depicted as comprising a photo
`detector 82 which is electrically coupled with a processor 84
`and device electronics. By loading appropriate software in
`PDA 12, light source 44 can be operated by microprocessor
`38 to emit low speed pulses to remote-controllable device 80
`for remotely controlling the device.
`In one embodiment it is envisioned that software code
`
`corresponding to a plurality of different remote-controllable
`device 80 is loaded in memory 13 of FDA 12. Display screen
`19 can be used to access a list of available remote-
`
`remote-
`controllable device. By choosing a select
`controllable device from the list, processor 11 can operate
`the corresponding software to assign control buttons to
`perform specific functions relative to operation of the select
`remote-controllable device. Alternatively, a list of functional
`operations can be listed on display screen 19. By selecting
`a desired function, processor 11 or 38 operates light source
`44 to emit a desired light pulse that when received by the
`select remote-controllable device signals the device to per-
`form the desired function. For example, by accessing soft-
`ware on the PDA for a television, depressing a select control
`button 42 on either PDA 12 or adapter 10 generates a low
`speed pulse that turns the television on or off. Of course
`other functions such as volume or channels can also be
`
`selectively changed. Performing functions such as down-
`loading data stored in memory 13 of FDA 12 can be
`executed using similar steps.
`
`It is noted that the operation of adapter 10 for download-
`ing information to computer 70 is different than operation of
`adapter 10 for remote control of a device. This is because the
`bit rates are substantially different for the different uses.
`From a practical standpoint, downloading information from
`FDA 12 to computer 70 requires a bit rate of about 20 kbps
`or higher. In contrast, operation of a remote-controllable
`device requires a bit rate of about 10 bps.
`
`As depicted in FIG. 5, the present invention also envisions
`that the electronic circuity of adapter 10, as depicted and
`discussed with regard to FIGS. 1—5, can be integrally
`incorporated into a single PDA 60. For example, PDA 60 is
`depicted having a top end 62. Formed at top end 62 is a
`window 64 through which a light beam from a light source
`within PDA 60 can emanate. Adj acently positioned to win-
`dow 64 is photo detector 56. Of course circuitry which is
`already found in a conventional PDA, such as a micro
`processor and a power system, need not be redundantly
`transferred from adapter 10 into PDA 60.
`
`The present invention may be embodied in other specific
`forms without departing from its spirit or essential charac-
`teristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in
`
`all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope
`of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended
`claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes
`which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of
`the claims are to be embraced within their scope.
`
`10
`
`15
`
`20
`
`25
`
`30
`
`35
`
`40
`
`45
`
`50
`
`55
`
`60
`
`65
`
`6
`What is claimed and desired to be secured by United
`States Letters Patent is:
`1. An adapter for removable attachment to a PDA, the
`adapter comprising:
`(a) an interface connector configured to removably elec-
`trically couple with the PDA;
`(b) a micro controller electrically coupled with the inter-
`face connector;
`(c) a light source configured to emit a light beam; and
`(d) a photo detector electrically coupled to the micro
`controller.
`2. An adapter as recited in claim 1, wherein the light
`source is a laser.
`
`3. An adapter as recited in claim 2, further comprising
`means for converting the light beam from the light source
`into a digital signal.
`4. An adapter as recited in claim 3, wherein the means for
`converting the light beam comprises switching circuitry for
`turning the light source on and off.
`5. An adapter as recited in claim 3, wherein the means for
`converting the light beam comprises an LCD positioned in
`the path of the light beam, the LCD being operable between
`an on position which blocks the light beam and an off
`position which allows the light to pass therethrough.
`6. An adapter as recited in claim 3, wherein the light
`source can be used to download data to a computer over a
`distance greater than about ten feet, without the required use
`of a cradle or other electrical connection.
`
`7. An adapter as recited in claim 6, wherein a transmission
`bit rate of the digital signal sent between the adapter and the
`computer is about 20 kbps or higher.
`8. An adapter as recited in claim 1, further comprising
`means electrically coupled to the micro controller for con-
`verting electrical signals between analog and digital.
`9. An adapter as recited in claim 8, wherein the light
`source and the photo detector are configured such that the
`light beam from the light source can be reflected off a bar
`code and received by the photo detector.
`10. An electrical apparatus comprising:
`(a) a PDA comprising a low profile box shaped case
`having a front face extending between a top end and a
`bottom end, a display screen is positioned on the front
`face and a first interface connector is positioned at the
`bottom end, the case of the PDA enclosing a micro-
`processor;
`
`(b) an adapter comprising:
`(i) a substantially L-shaped housing comprising a base
`and an arm, the arm projecting from the base to a free
`end;
`(ii) a second interface connector mounted to the base of
`the housing, the second interface connector being
`configured to electrically couple with the first inter-
`face connector for transferring electrical signals ther-
`ebetween;
`(iii) means for removably coupling the housing of the
`adapter to the PDA such that the first and second
`interface connectors are electrically coupled and the
`free end of the arm is positioned at the top end of the
`PDA case;
`(iv) a light source at least partially disposed within the
`arm and configured to emanate a light beam through
`the free end thereof;
`(v) a photo detector at least partially positioned at the
`free end of the arm; and
`(vi) an analog to digital converter disposed within the
`housing and electrically coupled to the photo detec-
`tor.
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - Ex. 1013, p. 9
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - Ex. 1013, p. 9
`
`

`

`6,065,880
`
`7
`11. An electrical apparatus as recited in claim 10, wherein
`a micro processor is disposed within the adapter housing and
`is electrically coupled with the analog to digital converter.
`12. An electrical apparatus as recited in claim 10, wherein
`the adapter housing comprises a battery compartment.
`13. An electrical apparatus as recited in claim 10, wherein
`the light source is a laser.
`14. An electrical apparatus as recited in claim 13, wherein
`the laser emits a visible red light that is sufficiently colli-
`mated to function as a pointer.
`15. An electrical apparatus as recited in claim 10, wherein
`the adapter further comprises a manual button for turning the
`light source on and off.
`16. An electrical apparatus as recited in claim 10, wherein
`the light source and the photo detector are configured such
`that the light beam from the light source can be reflected off
`a bar code and received by the photo detector.
`17. An electrical apparatus as recited in claim 10, further
`comprising an LCD positioned in the path of the light
`emitting from the light source,
`the LCD being operable
`between an on position which blocks light from passing
`therethrough and an off position which allows light to pass
`therethrough.
`
`10
`
`15
`
`20
`
`8
`
`18. A PDA comprising:
`(a) a housing having a front face extending between a top
`end and an opposing bottom end, a display screen is
`positioned on the front face and an interface connector
`is positioned at the bottom end,
`(b) a micro controller is disposed within the housing and
`is electrically coupled to the connector;
`(c) a laser is disposed within the housing and is configured
`to emit a light beam through the top end of the housing;
`(d) a analog to digital converter is disposed within the
`housing and is electrically coupled with the micro
`controller;
`
`(e) a photo detector is positioned at the top end of the
`housing and is configured to receive reflected light
`from the laser.
`
`19. A PDA as recited in claim 18, further comprising
`means for converting light from the laser into a digital
`signal.
`20. A PDA as recited in claim 18, wherein the laser emits
`a visible red light that is sufficiently collimated to function
`as a pointer.
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - EX. 1013, p. 10
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - Ex. 1013, p. 10
`
`

`

`CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION
`
`INVENTOR(S) ; Curtis Thompson
`
`It is certified that error appears in the above-identified patent and that said Letters Patent are
`hereby corrected as shown below:
`col. 1, line 8, please change ”adapters therefor" to -- adapters --
`
`col. 2, line 7, please change "thin highly" to -- thin, highly --
`
`col. 3, line 34, please change "housing (BOLD)10(BOLD)" to -- housing (BOLD)9(BOLD) --
`
`col. 3, line 35, plese change "RS(BOLD)232(BOLD)" to -- R8232 --
`
`Fig. 2, please change label "80" to -- 79 --; and
`
`col. 4, line 3, please change "driver (BOLD)80(BOLD)" to -- driver (BOLD)79(BOLD) --
`
`col. 4, line 18, please change "embodiment, light source" to -- embodiment, the light source --
`
`col. 4, line 62, please change "is in an" to -- is an -—
`
`col. 5, line 29, please change "that when" to —- that, when --
`
`col. 5, line 30, please change " device signals" to —- device, signals --
`
`
`
`
`UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
`
`
`PATENT NO.
`:
`6,065,880
`DATED
`2 May 23,2000
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`Signed and Sealed this
`
`Eighth Day of May, 2001
`
`
`
`74% we;
`
`NICHOLAS P. GODICI
`
` Arresting Officer
`
`
`At'ling Dirm‘rnr of rlw United Swim Pawn! and Trademark Office
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - EX. 1013, p. 11
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - Ex. 1013, p. 11
`
`

`

`(12) EX PARTE REEXAMINATION CERTIFICATE (8586th)
`United States Patent
`(16) Number:
`US 6,065,880 C1
`
`Thompson
`(45) Certificate Issued:
`Oct. 4, 2011
`
`USOO6065880C1
`
`(54) LASER ENHANCED PERSONAL DATA
`ASSISTANT
`
`(75)
`
`Inventor: Curtis Thompson, Salt Lake City, UT
`(US)
`
`(73) Assignee:
`
`Intellectual Asset Group, LLC, West
`1
`field MI (US)
`Boom
`,
`
`_
`_
`Reexamlnatlon Request
`No. 90/011,561, Mar. 18,2011
`
`Reexamination Certificate for:
`Patent No.2
`6,065,880
`Issued:
`May 23, 2000
`APPI- N“
`09/036,851
`Ffled:
`Mar'g’ 1998
`.
`.
`.
`Certlficate of Correct1on 1ssued May 8, 2001.
`(51)
`Int. Cl.
`
`............................. 385/88; 235/454; 710/72
`(52) U.S. Cl.
`(58) Field of Classification Search ........................ None
`See application file for complete search history.
`
`5,380,994 A
`5,404,493 A
`5,406,063 A
`
`5,410,141 A
`5,418,684 A
`5,496,992 A
`
`552:5329 :
`’
`’
`5,576,530 A
`5,640,002 A
`5,664,231 A
`5,679,943 A
`5,805,416 A
`5,821,518 A
`5,831,819 A
`5,834,753 A
`23131332 2‘
`6,023,147 A
`6,031,524 A
`6,041,374 A
`6,052,279 A
`6,285,916 B1
`6,497,368 B1
`6,895,419 B1
`
`1/1995 Ray
`4/1995 Bolme etal.
`4/1995 Jelen
`
`4/1995 Koen°k et 31'
`5/1995 Koenck et al.
`3/1996 Madan et a1.
`
`31332 Eargln’ Jr'et 31'
`“m“
`11/1996 Hagerty
`6/1997 Ruppeit et al.
`9/1997 Postman etal.
`10/1997 Schultz et a1.
`9/1998 Friend et a1.
`10/1998 Sussmeier et a1.
`11/1998 Chacon et al.
`11/1998 Danielson et al.
`$333 2323512331
`2/2000 Cargin, Jr. etal.
`2/2000 Kunert
`3/2000 Postman et a1.
`4/2000 Friend etal.
`9/2001 Kadaba et al.
`12/2002 Friend et al.
`5/2005 Cargin, Jr. et 31.
`
`Primary ExamineriDeandra Hughes
`
`(56)
`
`References Cited
`
`(57)
`
`ABSTRACT
`
`US. PATENT DOCUMENTS
`4 621 189 A
`11/ 1986 Kumar et 31.
`4:916:441 A
`4/1990 Gombrich
`4,943,868 A
`7/1990 Yoshinagawa et 31.
`4,983,818 A
`1/ 1991 Knowles
`5,107,100 A
`4/ 1992 Shepard et a1.
`5,202,817 A
`4/ 1993 Koenck et a1.
`5,216,233 A
`6/1993 Main et 3L
`2,373,339 2
`$133: Eiffk et 31'
`5’294’782 A
`3/1994 Kumar
`5’313’051 A
`5/1994 Brigida et 31.
`5:313:053 A
`5/1994 Koenck et a1.
`5,331,136 A
`7/1994 Koenck et 31.
`5,331,580 A
`7/1994 Miller et 31,
`5,371,348 A
`12/1994 Kumar et 31.
`
`An adapter having an L-shaped housing is configured for
`removable attachment to a conventional PDA. The adapter is
`electrically coupled with the PDA and includes a laser or
`other light source configured to selectively emanate a light
`beam that can be modified into a digital signal. The digital
`signal can be received by a photo detector on a computer for
`facilitating a download of data from the PDA to the com-
`puter. The light beam from the laser can also be used as a
`presentation pointer. The adapterfurther includes a photo
`detector whlch 1s select1vely pos1t10ned relat1ve to the laser
`so that the llght beam from the laser can be reflected offa bar
`code and rece1ved by the photo detector. The reflected s1gnal
`is then converted to a digital signal which is then forwarded
`to the PDA for storage or access of other corresponding
`information.
`
`
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - EX. 1013, p. 12
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - Ex. 1013, p. 12
`
`

`

`US 6,065,880 C1
`
`1
`EX PARTE
`
`18. A PDA comprising:
`
`2
`
`REEXAMINATION CERTIFICATE
`
`ISSUED UNDER 35 U.S.C. 307
`THE PATENT IS HEREBY AMENDED AS
`INDICATED BELOW.
`
`Matter enclosed in heavy brackets [ ] appeared in the
`patent, but has been deleted and is no longer a part of the
`patent; matter printed in italics indicates additions made
`to the patent.
`
`AS A RESULT OF REEXAMINATION, IT HAS BEEN
`DETERMINED THAT:
`
`Claim 18 is determined to be patentable as amended.
`
`Claims 19 and 20, dependent on an amended claim, are
`determined to be patentable.
`
`Claims 1-17 were not reexamined.
`
`10
`
`15
`
`20
`
`a single embedded PDA design comprising:
`(a) a housing having a front face extending between a
`top end and an opposing bottom end, a display screen
`is positioned on the front face and an interface con-
`nector is positioned at the bottom end,
`(b) a microcontroller is disposed within the housing and
`is electrically coupled to the connector;
`(0) a laser is disposed within the housing and is config-
`ured to emit a light beam through the top end of the
`housing;
`(d) an analog to digital converter is disposed within the
`housing and is electrically coupled with the micro-
`controller
`
`(e) a photodetector is positioned at the top end of the
`housing and is configured to receive reflected light
`from the laser.
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - EX. 1013, p. 13
`
`Petitioner Microsoft Corporation - Ex. 1013, p. 13
`
`

`

`(12) INTER PARTES REVIEW CERTIFICATE (341st)
`
`US 6,065,880 K1
`(10) Number:
`United States Patent
`
`
`(45) Certificate Issued:Thom