GB2622191A

GB2622191A - Polyhedral device with integrated communication means

Info

Publication number: GB2622191A
Application number: GB2212421.8A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Fjosne Jorund
Original assignee: Do Be AS
Current assignee: Do Be AS
Priority date: 2022-08-26
Filing date: 2022-08-26
Publication date: 2024-03-13
Also published as: GB202212421D0; WO2024042234A1

Abstract

A polyhedral device has a plurality of sides, wherein each side comprises an illumination panel, and means for providing directional near-field communication, NFC, functionality.The polyhedral device may be substantially cuboid in shape. Each illumination panel may comprise a light guide having one or more light sources arranged along one or more sides of the light guide, the light guide being configured to disperse the light from the one or more light sources. The means for providing directional NFC functionality may comprise an NFC sensor/antenna mounted on a backing board. The illumination panel may comprise an organic light-emitting diode, OLED. The polyhedral device may comprise means for sensing the orientation of the device, and/or means for sensing whether the device is being moved/rotated.

Description

Polyhedral device with integrated communication means The present invention relates to a polyhedral device that is capable of emitting light from each of its faces whilst allowing for near field directional communication from each face Recently, there has been a trend for more digital playthings. This has led to an issue particularly in the field of children's toys, whereby young children are being led to spend more and more time in front of a computer screen, tablet, or smart phone. Research shows that this can be harmful to their development of social and creative skills.

Therefore, there remains a need for a simple, yet interactive device for playing/learning/maturing children that is both stimulating, but not reliant on a screen that is capable of playing videos.

Accordingly, there is provided herein a device that addresses such an issue. The device combines a first aspect wherein there is provided an apparatus having polyhedral shape comprising a plurality of sides, wherein each side of the polygonal shape comprises a directional radio sensor/antenna, and wherein each directional radio sensor/antenna allows for sensing target objects that are placed on that side, and a second aspect wherein there is provided a system comprising an illumination panel, and means for providing NEC functionality directionally from the illumination panel.

Therefore, the above first and second aspects may be combined so as to provide a polyhedral device of a third aspect. The polyhedral device comprises a plurality of sides, wherein each side comprises an illumination panel, and means for providing directional near-field communication, NFC, functionality.

Therefore, each side of the polyhedral shape of the first aspect comprises an illumination panel and means for providing directed NFC functionality directionally from the panel of the second aspect. In this way, each of the sides are able to be independently illuminated, as well as provide directional NEC communication. Of course, the first aspect and the second aspect may also be provided separately.

As such, in contrast to modern trends which incorporate more video screens for entertainment of the user, the inventors have proposed a new polyhedral device which is less digital image based but is still interactive in that it can be can be programmed so as to respond to external input or user events. Each device can be configured to communicate with similar devices so as to provide a sort of herd functionality, enhancing the functionality of the device, and as such, the user experience.

As would be understood, NFC is a short-range communication protocol that allows for communication between two NFC enabled objects.

As above, each side of the device has a directional means of NEC communication such that it can detect objects that are placed on, or in close proximity to that side, and preferably the NFC communication means of a respective side is configured to detect only objects on/in close proximity that side, in a direction perpendicular to the face.

In this way, the device(s) may react differently depending on the relative positions of other devices/target objects that are near to the device, depending on which side the object is close to, and therefore, which of the NEC communication means of the device detects the object.

In addition, the polyhedral device may be rigid, so as to maintain its shape when objects and/or other devices are stacked on top of it.

One such way that the device may react to external stimulation (whether that be individual action of the device, or the placement of the device in relation to other target objects/devices) may be to change the colour, brightness, or otherwise change the nature of the light emitted by the illumination panels. For example, the light emitted by the illumination panel of each side may vary in different colours, intensities, and/or time patterns of activation. All sides may vary in a way consistent with one another, or act independently of one another. 3 -

The illumination panels may be means that are configured to provide a relatively consistent light across the panel, providing a "pure" and diffuse light thereby encouraging the user to use their imagination whilst playing with the device as opposed to directly showing an image on screens.

The combination of a device having a plurality of sides, wherein each side comprises a light screen and has a directional means for NFC communication, results in an interactive device, that still encourages the user to utilise their imagination. By providing a number of devices as outlined above in a certain orientation, the direction/surface on which they are stacked can be readily recognised owing to the directional NEC that is provided on each face, and this can open up many possibilities for new interactions between the devices. For example, the toys can recognise their relative arrangement with regards to one another and therefore can provide certain behaviours when certain shapes are made. One specific example might be that, if a simple three cube pyramid was made, the devices (with some imagination) might resemble a cartoon duck head, and adjust the colours of their faces accordingly.

Advantageously, the NEC communication of the second aspect provides a simple, reliable, short range, yet directional communication method, which is particularly suitable for implementation in the first aspect. As such, the polyhedral device may sense the presence of any NEC target (such as an NFC card, a toy with an NEC sticker, or the NEC sensor/antenna of a side of another polyhedral device) close to any, or each of its sides.

A subject NEC target (whether that be another device as defined above, or another NEC enabled target) may be read to get its description code. In the event that the detected NEC target is that of a side of another polyhedral device side panel, an NEC data write operation may be initiated, resulting in the exchange of a small set of status data between the devices.

By utilising NEC communication on each side of the polyhedral device, it is possible to isolate the sensing from each side owing to the directional, and relatively short range nature of NFC communication. In this way, when an NEC target is detected 4 -by the device, it is likely to only be detected by the NEC sensor/antenna of the side of the device upon which the target is placed. This separation of sensing on each side allows for a wide range of interactions depending specifically on the orientation of the device, and the relative position between the polyhedral device and the one or more NFC targets, and where each of them are positioned relative to the device.

Based on such NFC functions, certain actions may be completed by the device, for example, by a microcontroller of the device which can be configured to receive information from each of the NEC sensors, and control the illumination panels to react accordingly. For example, the device may compute the following information: 1. Identity and category of the target NEC device that is close to any side panel (e.g. a code associated with another device, card code, toy type 1, toy type 2, toy type 3, etc.) 2. Register an NFC event: new toy, new command, new neighbouring device 3. If the target/sensed device is another device: the other device's colour combination, orientation, active programme, the presence of other target NFC devices that are present on that device etc. There has previously been a problem in integrating NFC targets/readers with traditional light-emitting screens/panels. It is not possible to simply put an NEC antenna/reader behind a typical light emitting diode, LED, or liquid crystal display, LCD screen. This is because the NFC antenna/reader must not be obstructed by metal parts in front, nor at the back. Therefore, such components of the screen would ultimately interfere with the NEC operation to such an extent that it would be unusable. As such, it is desirable to isolate the NEC sensor/antenna from other metal parts, and particularly metal parts that allow for each side of the polyhedral device to illuminate.

The second aspect of the device (whether integrated with the first aspect, or provided independently) may therefore comprise an illumination panel comprising one or more light source(s) (for example, RGB LEDs) mounted along one or more sides of a light guide. The light guide may be configured to disperse the light from the one or more light sources, thereby providing an edge lit illumination panel having a constant colour throughout. An NEC sensor/antenna may then be

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mounted on, or close to the illumination panel (for example, behind the light guide) so as to provide NFC functionality through the illumination panel.

Additionally the sensor/antenna may be mounted centrally with respect to illumination panel. Advantageously, the central positioning of the NFC sensor/antenna pair may improve the isolation of the sensing area, particularly when several of the illumination panels are provided in close proximity (such as when they are provided as part of the device of the third aspect).

In at least some embodiments, the one or more light sources may be provided along one or more edges of the light guide. For example, where the illumination panel is square shaped, then the one or more light sources may be placed along one, two, three or all four of the sides of the light guide. The greater the number of sides that are lit, a brighter, higher quality light may be provided. For example, each illumination panel being lit on two edges may provide a high-quality light, whilst maintaining relatively good power/weight efficiency.

In at least some embodiments, the NFC sensor/antenna may be mounted on a backing board, which can then be mounted behind/attached to the illumination panel. The backing board may be a PCB including suitable NEC chip circuitry.

Advantageously, the backing board may configured so as to reflect light that bleeds inwards from the illumination panel, providing improved colour quality. For example, the backing board may be provided with a bright white coating, or white/other reflective foil.

In the context of the polyhedral device of the third aspect utilising the second aspect as described above, each side of the polyhedral device may comprise an illumination panel, each of which comprising a light guide configured to be illuminated by at least one edge mounted light source, thereby illuminating each side independently. As the illumination panels may be edge lit, the NFC sensor/antenna may be mounted centrally yet still in isolation from the metal components of the light sources, and in very close proximity to the illumination panel. This provides good NFC range and directionality, as the NFC sensor/antenna of each side of the polyhedral device is provided remotely from the sensors/antennas of the other sides. 6 -

Alternatively, the second aspect of the device may comprise an illumination panel comprising at least one funnel shaped reflector between at least one light source and a light guide, the light guide being configured to disperse the light from the light source. An NFC sensor/antenna may be embedded around the edge of the illumination panel, and/or into a frame around illumination panel the so as to not obstruct the light shining from the illumination panel through the light guide.

In the context of the above-mentioned device of the third aspect utilising the second aspect as described above, each side of the polyhedral device may comprise an illumination panel, having a light guide which is configured to disperse the light of the at least one light source, thereby illuminating each side of the device.

Optionally, each side of the device may share the at least one light source, which may be mounted, more example at or towards the center of the device.

Alternatively, each side may have its own associated light source.

For example, in the case where the polyhedral device is a cuboid shape having six sides, the device may be provided with one or more light sources (e.g. at least one RGB LED light source), with six illumination panels each comprising a funnel shaped reflector for directing the light from the one or more light sources to its respective light guide. The light from the at least one light source may then be diffused across the light guide of each side, thereby illuminating each side of the polyhedral device. Such an arrangement is both power and light efficient.

Alternatively, the second aspect of the device may comprise an illumination panel comprising a recessed backplate holding a light source (for example, a matrix of RGB LEDs) configured to shine towards a light guide configured to disperse the light from the light source. An NFC sensor/antenna may be embedded in the backplate, at the circumference and around the outer set of LEDs.

In the context of the above-mentioned device of the third aspect utilising the second aspect as described above, each side of the polyhedral device may comprise an illumination panel comprising recessed backplate holding a light source (for example, a matrix of RGB LEDs) configured to shine towards a light guide configured to disperse the light from the light source. An NFC sensor/antenna may 7 -be embedded in the backplate, at the circumference and around the outer set of LEDs. Such an arrangement is power and light efficient.

In any of the above examples of the second aspect, the light guides(s) may have a 'frosted' quality such as to evenly disperse the light across the light guide/side of the device with good forward reflection of the light, when utilised in the context of the device. As such, the resultant illumination panel can provide a soft, consistent and "pure" light, which is aesthetically pleasing. For example, the illumination panel(s) may be a translucent material such as acrylic glass or polycarbonate that is roughed/sandblasted/patterned on the innermost side and/or outermost side.

The light guide(s) may be between 3mm and 6mm thick. The thicker the illumination panel, then the better the light may be diffused, although this comes with an associated weight cost. The illumination panels may further comprise a clear protective covering.

Alternatively, the second aspect of the device may comprise an organic-light-emitting diode, OLED, based illumination panel, and a transparent NFC antenna, mounted behind a protective clear front.

In the context of the above-mentioned device of the third aspect utilising the second aspect as described above, each side of the polyhedral device may comprise an OLED panel, with a transparent NEC antenna mounted in front, behind a clear protective front. Such an arrangement has excellent light quality, is power efficient.

Alternatively, but similarly, the second aspect of the device may comprise an OLED illumination panel mounted behind a protective clear front, and an NFC antenna may be embedded around the OLED illumination panel, or in a frame around the illumination panel.

In the context of the above-mentioned device of the third aspect utilising the second aspect as described above, each side of the polyhedral device may comprise an OLED illumination panel, with an NFC antenna mounted around the OLED panel, behind a clear protective front. Such an arrangement again has excellent light quality, and is power efficient. 8 -

Alternatively, but similarly, the second aspect of the device may comprise an electroluminescent, EL, based panel behind a clear front. Again, an NFC antenna embedded into around EL panel, or in a frame around the EL panel.

In the context of the above-mentioned device of the third aspect utilising the second aspect as described above, each side of the polyhedral device may comprise an EL illumination panel, with an NFC antenna mounted around the EL panel, behind a clear protective front. Such an arrangement is very power efficient.

Alternatively, the second aspect may comprise a strong white light source, and a colour liquid crystal display, LCD, panel behind a protective acrylic front. An NFC antenna may then be embedded around the colour LCD panel or the frame around the front.

In the context of the above-mentioned device of the third aspect utilising the second aspect as described above, there may be provided one or more strong white light source(s) centrally in cube, which is common for all sides. Then, each side may be provided with its own colour LCD panel behind a protective acrylic front. An NFC antenna may then be embedded around the colour LCD panel or in a frame around the panel. Such an arrangement is power efficient.

Any of the above illumination panels may be provided with an elastomer frame, in order to provide further protection to the device.

Any of the above considered devices of the third aspect may be configured to interact with other objects. For example, there may be provided accessories with NFC chips, such as a "hat" that affects the behaviours of the device when it is placed on top of it. Accessories, such as "paint brushes" can be tapped on a single side, thereby colouring only that side. NFC sensor/antennas may be separately provided, and the user may attach these to objects that they already own, such as old toys, so that when they are placed in communication with the device, the device may respond accordingly thereby bringing new functionality to said older objects. This, combined with the directional and separate nature of the NFC communication enables as wide variety of interactions, as several different NEC targets may be 9 -introduced to a device, but result in a different reaction from the device depending on how they are arranged around the device.

In at least some embodiments, the edges and/or corners of the polyhedral device may be chamfered/bevelled. These chamfered/bevelled edges/corners may provide further surfaces upon which other features may be present. In addition, the device may be stacked on these chamfered edges/corners enabling more complex structures to be built by stacking a number of the devices. Equally, the edges and/or corners of the polyhedral device may be filleted/rounded off, thereby creating a less angular shape.

In at least some embodiments, the polyhedral device may comprise means to record, as well as play audio. As such, the device may comprise microphones and/or speakers. Optionally, the microphones may be integrated into the speakers.

This again provides further interaction with the polyhedral device, in that it may play back/record audio for later playback. In this way, the device may be configured to make and/or record noise in response to certain sensed events. The speakers and/or microphones may be located on the chamfered/bevelled/filleted edges/corners of the device, thereby not interfering with the illumination panel.

In at least some embodiments, the polyhedral device may be provided with means for outputting haptic signals, and therefore be configured to emit haptic signals. For example, the device may further comprise a vibration motor/buzzer, again enabling further interactions with the device.

In at least some embodiments, the polyhedral device may further comprise means for sensing the orientation of the device, and/or means for sensing whether the device is being moved and/or rotated. For example, the device may comprise one or more accelerometer(s) and/or one or more magnetometer(s).

Such sensors/accelerometers/magnetometers allow for the sensing of linear acceleration and orientation in a XYZ coordinate system, angular acceleration in a XYZ coordinate system, and/or magnetic north orientation. In this way, the device may detect its orientation, and therefore the orientation of its sides, and each of their associated NEC communication means. Therefore, if one (or more) of the -10 -NFC communication means detects another object, the device can recognise its spatial orientation relative to the other object, and therefore whether the device is above/below, to the left/right, or in front of/behind the other object. Again, this enables further interactions between the device and the user. For example, if several devices are provided next to one another, then they may determine their relative order of placement and react accordingly, e.g. seven devices in a row could illuminate in the colours of a rainbow.

Based on these sensors the device may be able to determine at least whether it is at rest, whether it is twisting clockwise or counterclockwise (e.g. 'Screw', Unscrew), whether it is rolling forward, backward, leftward, rightward, and/or flipping, whether it is being lifted and/or lowered, whether it is shaking, and/or swinging/rocking.

Whilst many of the above features relate to the interaction between the device and other objects/devices, the device may act independently from other outside systems. Accordingly, the device may have its own microcontroller and embedded software, and be capable of sensing/detecting events, and taking the appropriate actions that are prescribed. The device may hold a plurality of different behaviour programmes, from which the user may select one to be active at any time. Such a choice may be done by various kinds of interaction with the device, e.g. by shaking, by introducing an NFC enabled object to one of the sides, or by completing some sequence of actions (for example, rolling the device in certain directions).

In at least some embodiments, the polyhedral device is provided with means for connecting to a VVi-Fi access point. In this way, the device may also log into a cloud, enabling the download of new behaviour programmes from the cloud on demand. In addition, continuous status can be reported to the cloud, including use patterns, energy consumption, and device condition. In addition, the device can communicate with other devices by means of a local network, or by means of messaging through the cloud. Alternatively, the device may not have W-Fi capabilities, but rather may be connected to the cloud when placed in a dedicated charging rack, enabling the download of new software/behaviour programmes.

In at least some embodiments, the polyhedral device comprises at least one means for detecting if the device is touched by a human hand, for example, a capacitive sensor. Optionally, there may be provided a means (such as a capacitive sensor) on each side of the device, such that the device may detect which side of the device is touched. Such sensors increase the number of ways in which the device may be interacted with.

In at least some embodiments, the polyhedral device comprises at least one distance sensor, for example, a laser time-of-flight (ToF) sensor. Optionally, the device comprises a distance sensor on each side of the device, allowing for the measurement of distance from side to the nearest surface (for example, a wall, a floor, another device, etc.), such that spatial location and movement can be used to enhance the cube behaviour.

In at least some embodiments, the polyhedral device comprises at least one light sensor. Optionally, the device comprises a distance sensor on each side of the device, allowing for the measuring of light on each side of the device. Such light sensor(s) allow the device to measure ambient light, and as such, modify the behaviour of the device. For example, depending on the ambient light, the device may adjust the light panel illumination brightness. Further, such light sensors may detect further interactions such as the device being covered by a box, carpet or other light obstructing object, and use this information to trigger new behaviour. Such information may enable further games to be played with the device, such as "hide-and-seek", and/or be used to optimise the behaviour of each illumination panel. For example, if it is detected that there is zero ambient light on one of the light panels, it may be deduced that that panel is being covered, and therefore, the illumination panel can be turned off to save battery, as it cannot be seen anyway. Similar benefits may be achieved when reducing the brightness of the illumination panels in situations with less ambient light.

In at least some embodiments, the polyhedral device comprises an onboard radio circuit. Such an onboard radio circuit may be capable of to establishing a mesh communication network between other devices having a similar radio circuit within range. Such a communication network not only allows for longer distance communication by devices when compared to only NEC communication, but also -12 -enables the device to calculate relative distances between the device and other devices on the radio circuit using from time-of-flight of radio signals, thereby enabling swarm behaviour and orchestrated sequences between the devices. Furthermore, the radio circuit could be utilised for frequent communication with the cloud, reporting status of the device as well as receiving instructions.

In a fourth aspect, there is provided a system comprising a plurality of the polyhedral devices of the third aspect, wherein each of the polyhedral devices are configured to interact based on their spatial arrangement with one another.

Some embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 schematically shows a perspective view of an example polyhedral device.

Figure 2 schematically shows an exploded view of an example illumination panel.

Figure 3 schematically shows a perspective view of an example polyhedral device, with a section cut through one of the illumination panels Figure 4 schematically shows a cross section of an example illumination panel.

Figure 1 shows an example polyhedral device 100. The polyhedral device 100 is a cuboid shape having six sides, with chamfered edges and corners. As can be seen, each of the six sides of the cuboid polyhedral device 100 comprises an illumination panel 200, and between each side are chamfered edges 300 and/or chamfered corners. On these chamfered edges 300, there is provided a microphone 120, and a loudspeaker 110. Whilst it cannot be seen in Figure 1, each of the six sides of the cuboid shaped device 100 also comprises means for providing directional NFC functionality from its respective side of the polyhedral device. As such, should an NFC target object be placed on/near one of the sides of the device, then the NFC communication means on that side can detect the presence of such an object on/near that side.

An example illumination panel 200 is shown partially in an exploded view in Figure 2. The illumination panel 200 comprises a light guide 240, a backing board 230, and a frame 250. The frame 250 may be made of an elastomer, and be used to -13 -mount the components of the illumination panel, as well as provide protection for said components.

Whilst it cannot be seen in Figure 2, the backing board 230 may comprise circuitry for an NFC sensor/antenna centrally thereon, thereby providing NFC communication though the light guide 240. Again, whilst the light sources cannot be seen in Figure 2, they are edge mounted around the light guide, and configured to shine light through the light guide. The light guide is configured to disperse the light from the one or more light sources outwards.

The edge mounted LED arrangement described above with regards to Figure 2 may be seen in Figure 3, which shows again a perspective view of the polyhedral device 100, with a partial section view through one of the illumination panels so as to show its internal components. As can be seen, light sources 241 are provided along two sides of the light guide 240, both of which are mounted in the frame 250.

A cross section of an example illumination panel 200 in more detail may be seen in Figure 4. The backing board 230, whilst it cannot be seen, comprises the means for directional NFC communication, providing NFC communication generally in the direction x, perpendicular to the illumination panel (and therefore perpendicular to the side of the device that is provided by the panel 200).

There is a light guide 240 with edge mounted light sources 241. The light guide 240 is configured to forwardly disperse the light from the edge mounted light sources, thereby giving the appearance of a consistent and pure light from the light guide, when the illumination panel 200 is viewed. Further, there is a transparent cover 260 covering the light guide 240. These components are mounted within a frame 250.

As would be appreciated, Figures 1 to 4 illustrate only an example of a polyhedral device and associated illumination panels. Other suitable illumination panels and associated means for NFC communication are considered above, so long as they perform the function of providing a pure light panel, capable of providing directional NFC communication, for example, NFC communication in a direction perpendicular to the light panel.

-14 -Whilst in the above, the apparatus disclosed herein is discussed mainly in the context of toys, it would be appreciated that the polyhedral device, and the illumination panels with integrated NEC functionality may find use in a variety of applications. For example, the device may find particular use in applications wherein it is beneficial to have a single device with several different and distinguishable NFC sensors/antennas.

In addition, whilst the device is mainly described with regards to a substantially cuboid shape, it is foreseen that the polyhedral device could comprise any shape, having any number of sides.

Other potential uses may also take advantage of the unique configuration outlined above, wherein each face of the polyhedral shape presents a separate directional NEC communication means.

Claims

-15 -Claims 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.A polyhedral device comprising a plurality of sides, wherein each side comprises an illumination panel, and means for providing directional near-field communication, NFC, functionality.
The polyhedral device of claim 1, wherein the polyhedral device is substantially cuboid shaped.
The polyhedral device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the means for providing directional NFC functionality is mounted centrally with respect to each illumination panel.
The polyhedral device of any preceding claim, wherein each illumination panel comprises a light guide having one or more light sources arranged along one or more sides of the light guide, the light guide being configured to disperse the light from the one or more light sources.
The polyhedral device of claim 4, wherein the means for providing directional NFC functionality comprises an NFC sensor/antenna mounted on a backing board.
The polyhedral device of claim 5, wherein the backing board is a PCB including the NFC sensor/antenna circuitry.
The polyhedral device of claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the backing board is configured to provide a reflective surface, optionally where the backing board is provided with a bright white coating or foil.
The polyhedral device of claim 1 or 2, wherein each illumination panel comprises at least one light source, at least one light guide configured to disperse the light form the one or more light sources, and -16 -at least one funnel shaped reflector between at least one light source and a light guide; and wherein each means for providing directional NFC functionality is embedded around the edge of the respective illumination panel, and/or into a frame around illumination panel the so as to not obstruct the light guide.
9. The polyhedral device of claim 1 or 2, wherein each illumination panel comprises: a recessed backplate having at least one light source; and a light guide, wherein the at least one light source is configured to shine light towards the light guide, and wherein the light guide is configured to disperse the light from the light source; and wherein the respective means for directional NFC functionality is embedded in the backplate, at least partially around the circumference of the at least one light source.
10. The polyhedral device of any of claims 4 to 9, wherein the light guide is roughed/sandblasted/patterned on the innermost side and/or outermost side so as to provide a translucent sheet; and/or wherein each light guide is between 3mm and 6mm thick.
11 The polyhedral device of claim 1 or 2, wherein each illumination panel comprises an organic light-emitting diode, OLED, illumination panel, and each means for providing directional NFC functionality comprises a transparent NEC antenna provided on its respective OLED illumination panel.
12. The polyhedral device of claim 1 or 2, wherein each illumination panel comprises an organic light-ernittinQ dcd, OLED, illumination panel, and each means for providing directional NEC functionality comprises an NEC sensor/antenna embedded around its respective OLED illumination panel.
13. The polyhedral device of claim 1 or 2, wherein each illumination panel comprises an electroluminescent, EL, panel, and each means for providing -17 -directional NEC functionality comprises an NEC sensor/antenna embedded around its respective EL panel.
14. The polyhedral device of claim 1 or 2, wherein each illumination panel comprises a white light source, and a colour liquid crystal display, LCD, panel, and each means for providing directional NFC functionality comprises an NFC sensor/antenna embedded around its respective colour LCD panel.
15. The polyhedral device of claim 14, wherein each illumination panel shares a single central white light source.
16. The polyhedral device of any preceding claim, wherein the illumination panel further comprises a clear external covering and/or an elastomeric frame.
17. The polyhedral device of any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the edges and/or corners of the polyhedral device are chamfered/bevelled, and/or wherein at least one of the edges and/or corners of the polyhedral device are filleted.
18. The polyhedral device of any preceding claim further comprising at least one microphone and/or at least one speaker.
19. The polyhedral device of any preceding claim further comprising at least one means for detecting a human hand contacting the device.
20. The polyhedral device of any preceding claim further comprising at least one distance sensor.
21. The polyhedral device of any preceding claim further comprising an onboard radio circuit and/or means for connecting to a Wi-Fi access point.
22. The polyhedral device of any preceding claim further comprising means for sensing the orientation of the device, and/or means for sensing whether the device is being moved/rotated.
23. The polyhedral device of any preceding claim further comprising means for outputting haptic signals -18 -
24. The polyhedral device of any preceding claim further comprising at least one light sensor.
25. A system comprising a plurality of polyhedral devices of any preceding claim, wherein each of the polyhedral devices are configured to interact based on their spatial arrangement with one another.