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WO2015038169A1 - Système et appareil de réservation permettant de réserver l'occupation d'un bien collectif, et procédé d'utilisation - Google Patents

Système et appareil de réservation permettant de réserver l'occupation d'un bien collectif, et procédé d'utilisation Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2015038169A1
WO2015038169A1 PCT/US2013/060417 US2013060417W WO2015038169A1 WO 2015038169 A1 WO2015038169 A1 WO 2015038169A1 US 2013060417 W US2013060417 W US 2013060417W WO 2015038169 A1 WO2015038169 A1 WO 2015038169A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
communal
item
reservation device
timer
reservation
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/US2013/060417
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Erin Coleen SPIKER
Jeffrey Allen SPIKER
John Wesley BEAL
Shawn Steven FLANNERY
Molly Kay RITCHEY
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
TIME IT RIGHT Inc
Original Assignee
TIME IT RIGHT Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US14/027,311 external-priority patent/US20140039946A1/en
Application filed by TIME IT RIGHT Inc filed Critical TIME IT RIGHT Inc
Publication of WO2015038169A1 publication Critical patent/WO2015038169A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING OR CALCULATING; COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q10/00—Administration; Management
    • G06Q10/02—Reservations, e.g. for tickets, services or events
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B15/00—Arrangements or apparatus for collecting fares, tolls or entrance fees at one or more control points
    • G07B15/02—Arrangements or apparatus for collecting fares, tolls or entrance fees at one or more control points taking into account a variable factor such as distance or time, e.g. for passenger transport, parking systems or car rental systems

Definitions

  • the present invention pertains generally to communal items, and more particularly to a reservation system for reserving occupancy of a communal item.
  • communal items are made available for the use of multiple users.
  • lounge chairs are typically provided for the guests of cruise ships and hotel swimming pool areas.
  • the lounge chairs are occupied on a first-come-first-serve basis, and remain occupied until the current user elects to leave the area. If however there are an insufficient number of lounge chairs to accommodate all guests, then some guests must wait for a lounge chair to become available.
  • the wait can be frustrating since there is usually no provision for sharing the communal item by limiting the period of use.
  • confusion can arise as to whether the communal item is in fact in use. That is, if the communal item is physically unoccupied but some personal articles are disposed in the area, it can be unclear to a desirous user if the communal item is now available.
  • the present invention is directed to a reservation system, apparatus, and method for reserving occupancy of a communal item.
  • the reservation system allows both operational personnel and guests to easily distinguish whether lounge chairs or other communal items are available or reserved, resulting in a more equitable and efficient use of facility resources.
  • the system and apparatus also enable facility personnel to identify and locate guests who desire service(s) such as food and beverage. It also allows the facility to advertise current promotions to guests while they are lounging in the communal item.
  • the reservation device has user friendly controls and displays.
  • the reservation device wirelessly communicates with a computer-controlled base station via repeaters.
  • the reservation device includes a timing mechanism which indicates the amount of time a communal has been unoccupied.
  • the reservation device includes a service request feature so that guests can remotely request service.
  • the reservation system allows the facility to send promotional advertisements or other messages to guests while they are occupying the communal item.
  • the base station monitors communal item utilization and service requests.
  • the system employs a mesh wireless network which permits a specific communal item to be approximately located.
  • It provides the ability to track the utilization of communal items and service requests including but not limited to the time required for fulfillment of service requests.
  • a reservation system for reserving occupancy of a communal item includes a communal item placement area.
  • a communal item is disposed in the communal item placement area.
  • the reservation system further includes a reservation device which is connectable to the communal item.
  • the reservation device includes an available state in which the communal item is available for use, a reserved state in which the communal item is reserved by a user, a timer which runs for a period of time, and a timer activator which starts the timer.
  • the reservation system includes a base station.
  • the reservation device is capable of wirelessly communicating with the base station.
  • the communal item placement area is divided into a plurality of zones, and the communal item resides in one of the plurality of zones.
  • each of the plurality of zones has a repeater. Communication between the reservation device and the base station is via the repeater which is located in the same zone as the communal item.
  • a plurality of communal items are disposed in the communal item placement area.
  • the reservation system includes a mesh wireless network wherein each of the repeaters communicates with (1 ) the base station, (2) other the repeaters, and (3) multiple reservation devices.
  • the reservation device has a communal item identifier, and the reservation device is capable of sending the base station a communal item reserved signal which includes the communal item identifier.
  • the communal item placement area is divided into a plurality of zones, and the communal item resides in one of the plurality of zones.
  • Each of the plurality of zones has a repeater, each repeater having a zone identifier. Communication between the reservation device and the base station is via the repeater which is located in the same zone as the communal item.
  • the repeater receives the communal item reserved signal from the reservation device and passes the communal item reserved signal to the base station.
  • the repeater measures the signal strength of the communal item reserved signal received from the reservation device, and adds the signal strength to the communal item reserved signal before it is passed to the base station.
  • the repeater also adds the zone identifier of the repeater to the communal item reserved signal before it is passed to the base station.
  • the reservation device has a communal item identifier, and the reservation device is capable of sending the base station a communal item available signal which includes the communal item identifier.
  • the communal item placement area is divided into a plurality of zones, and the communal item resides in one of the plurality of zones.
  • Each of the plurality of zones has a repeater, each repeater having a zone identifier. Communication between the reservation device and the base station is via the repeater which is located in the same zone as the communal item.
  • the repeater receives the communal item available signal from the reservation device and passes the communal item available signal to the base station.
  • the repeater measures the signal strength of the communal item available signal received from the reservation device, and adds the signal strength to the communal item available signal before it is passed to the base station.
  • the repeater also adds the zone identifier of the repeater to the communal item available signal before it is passed to the base station.
  • the reservation device has a communal item identifier, and the reservation device is capable of sending the base station a service request signal which includes the communal item identifier.
  • the communal item placement area is divided into a plurality of zones, and the communal item resides in one of the plurality of zones.
  • Each of the plurality of zones has a repeater, each repeater having a zone identifier. Communication between the reservation device and the base station is via the repeater which is located in the same zone as the communal item.
  • the repeater receives the service request signal from the reservation device and passes the service request signal to the base station.
  • the repeater measures the signal strength of the service request signal received from the reservation device, and adds the signal strength to the service request signal before it is passed to the base station.
  • the repeater also adds the zone identifier of the repeater to the service request signal before it is passed to the base station.
  • the base station is capable of sending the reservation device an information message.
  • the reservation device includes a reserve activator.
  • the reserve activator When activated, the reserve activator (1 ) causes the reservation device to enter the reserved state, (2) causes a communal item reserved signal to be sent from the reservation device to the base station, and (3) enables the timer activator.
  • the reservation device includes a service state.
  • the reservation device includes a service activator. When activated the service activator causes the reservation device to enter the service state and sends a service request signal from the reservation device to the base station.
  • the reservation device includes a service activator.
  • the service activator When activated the service activator causes the reservation device to enter the service state and causes a service request signal to be sent from the reservation device to the base station.
  • the reservation device includes a system status display which when in the service state displays (1 ) a service message, and (2) a communal item identifier.
  • the timer activator includes a motion sensor which senses movement of the communal item when the reservation device is connected thereto.
  • the timer activator When in the reserved state, if no movement of the communal item is sensed within a time interval, the timer activator causes the timer to start. Once started if the timer runs for the full period of time without the motion sensor sensing movement of the communal item, the reservation device changes from the reserved state to the available state.
  • the timer activator includes a motion sensor which senses movement of the communal item. When in the reserved state, if no movement of the communal item is sensed within a time interval, the timer activator causes the timer to start. If movement is sensed before the period of time has elapsed, the timer stops and is reset.
  • the reservation device includes a system status display which when the reservation device is in the reserved state displays a reserved message.
  • system status display is also capable of displaying a time generated by the timer.
  • the reservation device includes a system status display which when the reservation device is in the available state displays an available message, and optionally a communal item identifier.
  • the reservation device includes a timer reset function which when activated resets the timer.
  • Figure 1 is a reduced perspective view of a timer for reserving occupancy of a communal item with the timer connected to a communal item;
  • Figure 2 is a perspective view of the timer with a communal item available indicator in an extended position
  • Figure 3 is a perspective view of the timer with the communal item available indicator in a retracted position
  • Figure 4 is front elevation view of the timer with the communal item available indicator in the extended position
  • Figure 5 is a front elevation view of the timer with the communal item available indicator in the retracted position
  • Figure 6 is a fragmented front elevation view of the timer connected to the communal item
  • Figure 7 is a front elevation view of the timer with a service request indicator in an extended position
  • Figure 8 is a top plan view of the timer with a plurality of service request indicators
  • Figure 9 is a front elevation view of the timer with an enabling transaction feature
  • Figure 10 is block diagram of the timer
  • Figure 1 1 is a front elevation view of a second embodiment of the timer
  • Figure 12 is a block diagram of the second embodiment timer;
  • Figure 13 is a reduced fragmented front perspective view of a reservation device for reserving occupancy of a communal item with the reservation device connected to a communal item;
  • Figure 14 is a reduced fragmented rear perspective view of the reservation device connected to the communal item
  • Figure 15 is a reduced perspective view of the reservation device connected to a different style communal item
  • Figure 16 is front perspective view of the reservation device
  • Figure 17 is a rear perspective view of the reservation device
  • Figure 18 is a top plan view of the reservation device
  • Figure 19 is a front elevation view of the reservation device
  • Figure 20 is a bottom plan view of the reservation device
  • Figure 21 is a side elevation view of the reservation device
  • Figure 22 is an opposite side elevation view of the reservation device
  • Figure 23 is a reduced exploded perspective view of the reservation device
  • Figure 24 is a perspective view of a repeater
  • Figure 25 is a front elevation view of the reservation device in a reserved state
  • Figure 26 is a front elevation view of the reservation device in an available state
  • Figure 27 is a front elevation view of the reservation device in a service state
  • Figure 28 is a block diagram of the reservation device.
  • Figure 29 is a block diagram of a reservation system.
  • FIG. 1 there is illustrated a reduced perspective view of a timer 20 for reserving occupancy of a communal item 500 with timer 20 connected to communal item 500.
  • FIGs. 2-3 are perspective views of timer 20
  • FIGs. 4-5 are front elevation views of timer 20.
  • Timer 20 is removably connectable to communal item 500, and is used to regulate how long a particular user can use communal item 500.
  • the term "communal item” embraces any item which is provided for use by multiple users, and which is used by a particular user for a period of time.
  • timer 20 includes a timing mechanism 22, which is settable to run for a period of time, and a timer control 24, which is used to set the period of time.
  • timing mechanism 22 includes a digital processor
  • timer control 24 includes a plurality of control buttons 26 which are disposed on the face of timer 20. Control buttons 26 are used to set timing mechanism 22 to run for a desired period of time, and can be used to perform other timing-related actions (e.g. on/off, stop, reset, etc.).
  • the setting of timer mechanism 22 is limited to a maximum period of time (e.g. 15 minutes, one hour, etc.). This ensures that communal item 500 will not be monopolized and will be available for another user.
  • a remaining time indicator 25 indicates the amount of time remaining before the set time period expires (i.e. remaining time indicator 25 counts down from the remaining time to zero).
  • Timer 20 further includes a communal item available indicator 28, which is positionable to (1 ) a retracted position (physically within the housing of timer 20) during the period of time, and (2) to an upwardly extended position after the period of time has expired.
  • communal item available indicator 28 includes a flag on a pole, which pivots between the retracted position of FIG. 3, and in the extended position of FIGs. 2 and 4.
  • Communal item available indicator 28 is biased (such as through spring loading) to the extended position.
  • a control mechanism 30 such as a latch holds communal item available indicator 28 in the retracted position during the period of time (i.e. during the time communal item 500 is reserved).
  • control mechanism 30 causes communal item available indicator 28 to move to the extended position. That is, control mechanism 30 releases communal item available indicator 28 when the period of time has expired so that communal item available indicator 28 is urged by spring loading to the extended position.
  • timer 20 further includes a service request indicator 32, which is positionable to (1 ) a retracted position, and (2) an extended position.
  • the extended position indicates that a service such as food, drink, or other amenity is requested.
  • service request indicator 32 is flag, which is manually positioned by the user, and has a tab 34, which facilitates gripping.
  • communal item available indicator 28 and service request indicator 32 could have shapes or forms other than that of a flag and pole.
  • the communal item available indicator 28 and service request indicator 32 could be colored and/or display indicia.
  • timer 20 could produce an audible sound when time has expired to provide a second indicator (in addition to visible the flag) for notifying when time has expired.
  • Timer 20 further includes a display 36, which is capable of displaying a first message during the period of time, and a second message after the period of time has expired.
  • display 36 works in conjunction with communal item available indicator 28 to convey the occupancy status of the communal item.
  • the first message is a reserved message (RESERVED)
  • the second message is an available message (AVAILABLE).
  • Display 36 can be a LCD display or other similar electronic display.
  • the term "RESERVED” and “AVAILABLE” are intended to embrace any similar terminology which means that communal item 500 is in use or not in use respectively (e.g. occupied, in use, free, open, not in use, etc.).
  • display 36 is capable of showing a message in grayscale or different colors, and may flash to produce an enhanced visual impact. Also, display 36 could display other messages or phrases not related to the reserved or available status of communal item 500.
  • timer 20 the various components of timer 20 are disposed in/on a housing, which is both weather and shock resistant. Moreover, timer 20 can be manufactured in a variety of sizes, shapes, colors, and designs depending on the intended use. Attachment of the housing to communal item 500 can be effected by numerous means as is discussed below under FIG. 6.
  • timing mechanism 22 once timing mechanism 22 has begun to run it is not resettable to a lower remaining time. This feature prevents a person who has not reserved communal item 500 from resetting timing mechanism 22 in order to expedite the availability of the communal item 500. For example, if a reserving user briefly steps away from a reserved communal item 500, another person could not seize that opportunity to lower the remaining time.
  • timer control 24 includes a reset control that interrupts the running of timing mechanism 22 and allows resetting of timing mechanism 22 to a lower remaining time. However, the reset control requires a key to effect resetting to a lower remaining time. For example, this feature is useful if the reserving user decides to abandon communal item 500 before the set time period has expired.
  • the time could be reset to zero so that the next user would not have to start occupancy with a low remaining time.
  • the key is a specially designed mechanical key that fits a specially designed receptacle 38 on the face of timer 20 (refer to FIGs. 2-5).
  • the key could comprise a code that is entered using control buttons 26 (e.g. a specified sequence of button activation which enables the reset feature).
  • the key would typically be in the possession of a person other than the user (such as a pool or gym attendant) who is authorized to perform the resetting, and when requested can do so for any communal item 500.
  • timing mechanism 22 once timing mechanism 22 has begun to run it is not resettable to a higher remaining time. This feature prevents a user from resetting timing mechanism 22 in order to prolong occupancy of communal item 500.
  • timer control 24 includes a reset control which interrupts the running of timing mechanism 22 and allows resetting of timing mechanism 22 to a higher remaining time, however as in the case of the lower time reset discussed above, the reset requires a key to effect the resetting to a higher remaining time. This feature is useful when there is no one currently waiting to use communal item 500, and the present user desires to extend the reserved time.
  • FIG. 6 is a fragmented front elevation view of timer 20 connected to communal item 500.
  • the connection can be effected by numerous connection means such as hook and loop fasteners, clips, straps, snap fit fasteners, magnets, ties, adhesives, and the like.
  • timer 20 includes two slots 40 each of which receives a connecting strap 42.
  • timer 20 can simply be carried and placed on or near communal item 500 with positive mounting not required.
  • FIG. 7 is a front elevation view of timer 20 with service request indicator 32 in an extended position.
  • service request indicator 32 is a flag on a pole that pivots to the extended and retracted positions.
  • Tab 34 is used to pivotally rotate service request indicator 32 to the extended (service requested) position.
  • FIG. 8 is a top plan view of timer 20 that has a plurality of service request indicators 32 and associated tabs 34. Service request indicators 32 could be different colors to indicate which service is requested (e.g., drinks, food, etc).
  • FIG. 9 is a front elevation view of the timer with an enabling transaction 44 feature (also refer to FIG. 10 and the associated discussion). In this embodiment an enabling transaction such as the swipe of a room card is required to operate timer 20. The room card is passed through a card-reader slot 46 in timer 20. Timer 20 reads the room card and, if valid, enables operation of timer 20 through timer control 24.
  • FIG. 10 is block diagram of timer 20.
  • timer 20 includes timing mechanism 22, timer control 24, remaining time indicator 25, communal item available indicator 28, control mechanism 30, display 36, enabling transaction 44, and power supply 50.
  • electrical connections are shown with a solid arrow and mechanical connections or actions are shown with a dashed arrow.
  • the timing mechanism 22, timer control 24, remaining time indicator 25, and power supply 50 features of timer 20 comprise a digital timer which is well known in the art.
  • Timing mechanism 22 is a microprocessor that receives a time set input from timer control 24. Control buttons 26 of timer control 24 permit a user to set a desired period of time during which communal item 500 will be reserved.
  • the set time period is initially displayed on remaining time indicator 25, which then counts down as the set time period elapses.
  • Timing mechanism 22 sends a signal to display 36 that causes a message such as RESERVED to appear.
  • timing mechanism 22 sends a signal to control mechanism 30, which in turn causes control mechanism 30 to activate available indicator 28.
  • control mechanism 30 is a latch which releases spring loaded available indicator 28 (a flag) allowing it to pivot to an extended position (refer to FIGs. 1 , 2, and 4) thereby indicating that communal item 500 is available for another user. Also, timing mechanism 22 sends a signal to display 36, which causes a message such as AVAILABLE to appear.
  • timer 20 also includes an enabling transaction 44 feature.
  • the user is required to perform an enabling transaction before timing mechanism 22 will operate.
  • enabling transaction 44 could be a card reader 46 (refer to FIG. 9), and before timing mechanism 22 can be set, the user's room card (key) must be passed through card reader 46.
  • enabling transaction 44 could accommodate financial transactions, wherein credit cards, coins, or special tokens would be used to activate timing mechanism 22.
  • Power supply 50 is typically a battery, but could also be an electrical outlet or a solar power source.
  • FIG. 1 1 is a front elevation view of a second embodiment of timer 20, and FIG. 12 is a block diagram of the second embodiment.
  • timing mechanism 22 and timer control 24 comprise a mechanical timer that is well know in the art (U.S. Pats. 2,696,899 and 7,484,882 are examples of mechanical timer technology).
  • Timer control 24 is a rotary knob that allows the user to set a desired time period (e.g. 90 minutes).
  • Timing mechanism also causes display 36 to display a RESERVED message. Timing mechanism 22 then mechanically counts down time until the set time period expires.
  • timing mechanism 22 sends a signal to control mechanism 30, which in turn causes available indicator 28 to move to the extended position indicating that communal item 500 is available for another user.
  • Timing mechanism 22 also causes display 36 to display an AVAILABLE message. In this embodiment enabling transaction 44 could accept coins or tokens.
  • timer 20 and communal item 500 are combined to form a reservation system for reserving occupancy of communal item 500.
  • timer 20 reserves occupancy of communal item 500 both when the user is actually using communal item 500, and when the user has temporarily stepped away from communal item 500. That is, occupancy remains reserved regardless of the physical presence of the user.
  • timer 20 can be used in a variety of other situations some of which are outlined below:
  • the present invention can also be used to limit the duration of reservation of a communal item when the communal item is not in use. That is, if the communal item is unoccupied or not in use, but personal articles are disposed in the area of the communal item in order to reserve the communal item, the present invention can be used to limit the practice of reserving the communal item for an indefinite amount of time where the individual is not occupying or utilizing the communal item.
  • FIG. 13 there is illustrated a reduced fragmented front perspective view of a reservation device 1 20 for reserving occupancy of a communal item 500 with the reservation device 120 connected to communal item 500.
  • FIG. 14 is a reduced fragmented rear perspective view of reservation device 120 connected to communal item 500.
  • FIG. 15 is a reduced perspective view of reservation device 120 connected to a different style communal item 500.
  • FIGs. 16-23 show various views of reservation device 120.
  • FIG. 28 is a block diagram of reservation device 120
  • FIG. 29 is a block diagram of a reservation system 200 for reserving occupancy of communal item 500.
  • communal item 500 is a chair that can be occupied by a user. It is noted that in FIGs.
  • the term "communal item” embraces any item that is provided for use by multiple users, is used by a particular user for a period of time, and includes communal items 500 in which the user sits or otherwise rests upon the communal item 500 (e.g. chairs, lounge chairs, stools, beds, etc.).
  • Reservation system 200 includes a communal item placement area (such as around a swimming pool, on the deck of a ship, etc.) that is divided into a plurality of zones (Zones 1 -4 in the embodiment shown in FIG. 29).
  • Communal item 500 is disposed in the communal item placement area, and resides in one of the plurality of zones.
  • Reservation system 200 further includes reservation device 1 20, which is connectable to communal item 500.
  • reservation device 120 attaches to a side member, which forms the upper portion of the chair.
  • Reservation device 120 includes an available state in which communal item 500 is available for use, and a reserved state in which communal item 500 is reserved. Referring to FIG. 28, reservation device 120 further includes a timer 122 that runs for a period of time (e.g. 60 minutes, or another period of time as defined by facility personnel), and a timer activator 124 that starts timer 1 22. In the shown embodiment of FIG. 28, timer 122 is implemented within a microcontroller 126.
  • timer activator 124 includes a motion sensor (such as an accelerometer) that senses movement of communal item 500 when reservation device 120 is connected thereto. The movement of communal item 500 is caused by the movement of the user who is occupying communal item 500. When in the reserved state, if no movement of communal item 500 is sensed within a time interval, timer activator 124 causes timer 1 22 to start. In an embodiment the time interval is five minutes, however other time intervals could also be utilized. That is, if the user vacates a reserved communal item 500 for five minutes, no movement will be sensed, and timer 122 will start a 60-minute countdown.
  • a motion sensor such as an accelerometer
  • timer 122 runs for the period of time (i.e., counts down the entire 60 minutes) without the motion sensor sensing movement of communal item 500
  • reservation device 1 20 changes from the reserved state to the available state (also refer to FIGs. 25 and 26 respectively).
  • the user's personal items could be removed from communal item 500 by facility personnel (those individuals who manage and operate reservation system 200) thereby allowing another user to utilize communal item 500.
  • timer 122 if movement is sensed before the period of time has elapsed, timer 122 is reset. That is, if the user returns and reoccupies communal item 500 before the period of time has elapsed (e.g. is gone for less than 60 minutes), then timer 1 22 stops counting and is reset.
  • Reset means that timer 122 is again ready to begin counting down should the user again vacate communal item 500 for longer than the time interval.
  • the motion sensor feature serves to relieve the user of the chore of manually re-setting reservation device 120 on a continual basis. It is noted that timer 122 can either countdown from the period of time (e.g. countdown from 60 minutes to zero minutes), or alternatively could count up from zero minutes to the time period (e.g., count up from zero minutes to 60 minutes).
  • reservation system 200 further includes a base station 128 which is controlled and operated by facility personnel.
  • base station 1 28 comprises a computer system that provides the current status of reservation system 200.
  • Reservation device 120 is capable of wirelessly communicating with base station 1 28.
  • a mesh wireless network is utilized to effect bi-directional wireless communication between reservation device 1 20 and base station 128.
  • a mesh wireless network is well known in the art, and is a communication network that includes a plurality of radio frequency nodes that are arranged in a mesh topology.
  • Various status and control signals are sent from reservation device 120 to base station 128, and information messages (such as notices or advertisements) are sent from base station 1 28 to reservation device 120.
  • reserved, available, and service request signals along with a communal item identifier are sent from reservation device 120 to a computer at base station 128.
  • This information provides facility personnel with an up-to-date status of each communal item 500 in the reservation system 200.
  • each of the plurality of zones has a repeater 1 30. Communication between reservation device 120 and base station 128 is via the repeater 130 that is located in same zone as communal item 500.
  • communal item 500 and associated reservation device 120 located in zone 3 communicates with base station 1 28 via repeater R3, which is located in zone 3. This is the primary communication path and is shown in solid lines. It is noted however that the reservation device 120 located in zone 3 also communicates with base station 128 via the repeaters 130 located in other zones (shown in dashed lines).
  • This multiple communication path feature provides communication redundancy and is an inherent characteristic of mesh wireless networks.
  • Reservation system 200 includes the previously mentioned mesh wireless network wherein each of the repeaters 130 communicate with (1 ) base station 128, (2) other repeaters 130, and (3) multiple reservation devices 120, which can be connected to multiple communal items 500.
  • each reservation device 120 has a unique communal item identifier 132 (e.g. communal item #001 ).
  • Reservation device 120 is capable of sending base station 128 a communal item reserved signal 134, which includes the communal item identifier 1 32.
  • each repeater 130 has a unique zone identifier. For example, the repeater in zone 3 would have a zone identifier of 3.
  • the communication between reservation device 120 and base station 128 is via the repeater 130, which is located in the same zone as communal item 500.
  • Repeater 130 receives communal item reserved signal 134 from reservation device 1 20 and passes communal item reserved signal 134 to base station 128.
  • Repeater 130 measures a signal strength of communal item reserved signal 1 34 received from reservation device 120, and adds the signal strength to communal item reserved signal 134 before it is passed to base station 128. Repeater 130 also adds the zone identifier of the repeater 130 to communal item reserved signal 134 before it is passed to base station 1 28. It is noted however, that other repeaters 130 can also transmit reserved signal 134 (or any other signal from reservation device 120) to base station 128. Base station 128 then compares the signal strength from all repeaters 130, and determines which repeater 130 is closest to the transmitting reservation device 1 20, and therefore in which zone the communal item 500 is located. For example in FIG.
  • reservation device 120 is also capable of sending base station 128 a communal item available signal 136, which includes communal item identifier 132.
  • Repeater 130 receives communal item available signal 136 from reservation device 120 and passes the communal item available signal 1 36 to base station 128.
  • repeater 130 measures the signal strength of the communal item available signal 1 36 received from reservation device 120, and adds the signal strength to the communal item available signal 136 before it is passed to base station 128.
  • Repeater 130 also adds the zone identifier of repeater 130 to the communal item available signal 1 36 before it is passed to base station 128.
  • reservation device 120 is also capable of sending base station 128 a service request signal 138 which includes communal item identifier 132.
  • Repeater 130 receives the service request signal 1 38 from reservation device 1 20 and passes the service request signal 138 to base station 128. As with the reserved signal 134 and available signal 136, repeater 130 measures the signal strength of service request signal 1 38 received from reservation device 120, and adds the signal strength to the service request signal 138 before it is passed to base station 128. Repeater 130 also adds the zone identifier of repeater 130 to the service request signal 138 before it is passed to base station 128.
  • base station 128 is capable of sending reservation device 1 20 an information message 140.
  • the information message 140 can be an advertisement, a special offer, a public notice, event schedules, or any other information that facility personnel deems appropriate. The messages are displayed on an information messages display located on reservation device 1 20 (refer to FIGs. 25-27).
  • reservation device 120 is connected to communal item 500 by a clamping mechanism 142 wherein reservation device 120 is removably clamped around a structural member of communal item 500.
  • Clamping mechanism 142 is designed to accommodate a variety of communal item shapes, sizes, and styles. It may be appreciated however that other methods of connecting reservation device 1 20 to communal item 500 could also be employed.
  • reservation device 120 includes a removal key 144. This unique tool fits into the housing of reservation device 120, and enables facility personnel to easily remove the electronics components disposed therein.
  • FIG. 24 is a perspective view of repeater 1 30.
  • Repeater 130 is unobtrusively mounted to a structure such as the shown pole 600, and relays signals between reservation device 120 and base station 1 28 (refer to FIG. 29). Repeaters 130 are located in each of the zones of the communal item placement area.
  • FIG. 25 is a front elevation view of reservation device 120 in the reserved state.
  • Reservation device 120 includes a system status display 148 which when reservation device 120 is in the reserved state displays a reserved message 150.
  • Reservation device 120 includes a reserve activator 146.
  • Reserve activator 146 can be a button, a switch, a touchscreen, or the like. When activated by a user (such as by pressing), reserve activator 146 starts system operation and specifically (1 ) causes reservation device 1 20 to enter the reserved state, (2) causes a communal item reserved signal 134 (refer to FIG. 28) to be sent from reservation device 1 20 to base station 128 (refer to FIG. 29), and (3) enables timer activator 124.
  • Enabling timer activator 124 means that once reserve activator 146 is activated, timer activator 124 will cause timer 122 to start counting if motion is not sensed for the time interval (e.g. five minutes). It is noted that when in the reserved state, system status display 148 is also capable of displaying a time generated by timer 122. The time generated by timer 122 is only displayed when the timer 122 has been started and is counting as a result of the user vacating communal item 500. Reservation device 120 further includes an information message display 154 for displaying messages received from base station 128. Information message display 1 54 can be used when reservation device 120 is in the reserved state, the available state, or service state.
  • system status display 148 and information message display 154 are bistable graphic LCD displays wherein power is only required to change the display image. This greatly reduces the power consumption of reservation device 120. Further, the display's characteristics allow it to be seen in bright sunlight.
  • FIG. 26 is a front elevation view of reservation device 1 20 in the available state.
  • system status display 148 displays (1 ) an available message 156, and (2) communal item identifier 132 (e.g. communal item #001 ).
  • FIG. 27 is a front elevation view of reservation device 1 20 in the service state.
  • Reservation device 1 20 includes a service activator 158.
  • service activator can be a button, a switch, a touchscreen, or the like.
  • service activator 158 causes reservation device 120 to enter the service state and sends a service request signal 138 from reservation device 1 20 to base station 128 (refer to FIG. 29).
  • system status display 148 displays (1 ) a service message 160, and (2) a communal item identifier 1 32. It is noted that in an embodiment, the service state can only be entered if reservation device 120 has first been placed in the reserved state.
  • FIG. 28 is a block diagram of reservation device 120.
  • the functions of reservation device 120 are implemented by microcontroller 126. It may be appreciated however that other computational elements such as a microprocessor could also be utilized.
  • Microcontroller 126 can be powered by a battery, or could be solar powered.
  • a transceiver 1 62 effects communication between microcontroller 126 and base station 128.
  • reserve activator 146 and service activator 1 58 are inputs provided by a user.
  • Timer activator 124 such as a motion sensing accelerometer enables timer 1 22, which after not detecting motion for a time interval starts running.
  • a display power sequencing unit 164 drives system status display 148 and information message display 154.
  • Reservation device 120 further includes a timer reset function 1 66, which when activated resets timer 122 to zero returning reservation device 1 20 to the available state.
  • timer reset function 166 comprises activating reserved activator 146 and service activator 158 in a particular sequence, such as by activating both activators simultaneously.
  • timer reset function 166 is only used by facility personnel.
  • FIG. 29 is a block diagram of reservation system 200 showing the communal item placement area divided into zones 1 -4, a plurality of repeaters 130, a plurality of communal items 500 and associated reservation devices 120, and base station 1 28.
  • Base station 1 28 consists of a computer system and display. Base station 1 28 is located in a convenient location allowing facility personnel to manage reservation system 200 from base station 128. Base station 128 receives information from reservation device 120 via repeaters 130 and is also capable of creating and sending information messages to the individual reservation devices 120. Base station 128 is also utilized to configure reservation system 200 and reservation device 1 20 mapping upon initial set-up. Base station 128 allows facility personnel to monitor available communal items, reserved communal items and the status of service requests.
  • the communal item is a lounge chair.
  • Scenario #1 A guest locates a chair, leaves the chair, and returns in less than 60 minutes.
  • a resort guest selects an unoccupied lounge chair with a reservation device which displays the word "AVAILABLE" on the system status display. The guest sets his/her personal items on the chair.
  • the reservation device will then transmit a data packet containing a reserved signal and a communal item identifier.
  • the reserved signal data packet will be received by repeaters located within range of the chair.
  • the repeaters forward the reserved signal data packet to the base station along with a zone identifier of the repeater and the signal strength of the data packet.
  • Base station software will detect which zone the chair is located in based on the repeater that receives the greatest signal strength.
  • Base station software will then add the communal item identifier to the list of reserved chairs in a database.
  • the system status display will display "Time remaining: X:XX" (e.g., in hours: minutes format).
  • the system status display will refresh and display a new time each minute that the chair remains unoccupied.
  • Steps #3-#5 can be repeated numerous times throughout the day.
  • Scenario #2 A guest locates a chair, leaves the chair, and returns in >
  • [00112] 1 A guest selects an unoccupied lounge chair with a reservation device that displays the word "AVAILABLE" on the system status display. The guest sets his/her personal items on the chair.
  • the reservation device will then transmit a data packet containing a reserved signal and a communal item identifier.
  • the reserved signal data packet will be received by repeaters located within range of the chair.
  • the repeaters forward the data packet to the base station along with a zone identifier of the repeater and the signal strength of the reserved signal data packet.
  • Base station software will detect which zone the chair is located in based on the repeater that receives the greatest signal strength.
  • Base station software will then add the communal item identifier to the list of reserved chairs in the database.
  • the system status display will change from "RESERVED" to "AVAILABLE".
  • the reservation device will then transmit a data packet containing an available signal and a communal item identifier.
  • the available signal data packet will be received by repeaters located within range of the chair.
  • the repeaters forward the available signal data packet to the base station along with a zone identifier of the repeater and the signal strength of the data packet.
  • Base station software will detect in which zone the chair is located based on the repeater that receives the greatest signal strength.
  • Base station software will then add the communal item identifier to the list of available chairs in the database.
  • Scenario #3 A guest utilizing a lounge chair desires service (eg: food or drink).
  • a guest selects an unoccupied lounge chair with a reservation device which displays the word "AVAILABLE" on the system status display. The guest sets his/her personal items on the chair.
  • the system status display then displays a large 3-digit number (communal item identifier) and the word "SERVICE.”
  • the reservation device will then transmit a data packet containing a service request signal and a communal item identifier.
  • the service request signal data packet will be received by repeaters located within range of the chair.
  • the repeaters forward the service request signal data packet to the base station along with a zone identifier of the repeater and the signal strength of the data packet.
  • Base station software will detect in which zone the chair is located based on the repeater that receives the greatest signal strength.
  • Base station software will then add the communal item identifier to the list of chairs awaiting service.
  • Wait staff will then locate the chair in the specified zone. When wait staff approaches the chair to take the guest's order, the wait staff will acknowledge the "Service" request and press a button on the reservation device to turn off the service request signal.
  • Scenario #4 A guest reserves a lounge chair but does not place personal items on or near the chair.
  • Scenario #5 A guest fails to start the reservation process.
  • [00130] 1 A resort guest selects an unoccupied lounge chair with a reservation device which displays "AVAILABLE” on the system status display. The guests sets their personal items on the chair, but does not press the "Reserve” button.
  • a method for a user to reserve occupancy of a communal item includes (refer to FIGs. 13-29):
  • timer activator 124 which starts timer 122
  • a reserve activator 146 which when activated (1 ) causes reservation device 120 to enter the reserved state, and (2) causes timer activator 124 to be enabled;
  • a system status display 148 which when communal item 500 is available displays an available message 156, and when communal item 500 is reserved displays a reserved message 150;
  • the method further including:
  • reservation device 120 capable of wirelessly communicating with base station 1 28;
  • the method further including:
  • timer activator 124 including a motion sensor which senses movement of communal item 500;
  • timer activator 124 causing timer 1 22 to start;
  • reservation device 1 20 to change from the reserved state to the available state.
  • the method further including:
  • timer activator 124 including a motion sensor which senses movement of communal item 500; the user vacating communal item 500;
  • timer activator 124 causing timer 1 22 to start;
  • the method further including:
  • reservation device 1 20 including a service state
  • reservation device 1 20 including a service activator 158;
  • the method further including:
  • reservation device 1 20 including a service state
  • reservation device including a service activator 158;
  • reservation device including a system status display 148 which when in the service state displays (1 ) a service message 160, and (2) a communal item identifier 132;
  • the method further including:
  • reservation device 120 including a timer reset function 1 66 which when activated resets timer 122;
  • timer reset function 166 facility personnel activating timer reset function 166.
  • any embodiment of the present invention may include any of the optional or preferred features of the other embodiments of the present invention.
  • the exemplary embodiments herein disclosed are not intended to be exhaustive or to unnecessarily limit the scope of the invention.
  • the exemplary embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain some of the principles of the present invention so that others skilled in the art may practice the invention. Having shown and described exemplary embodiments of the present invention, those skilled in the art will realize that many variations and modifications may be made to the described invention. Many of those variations and modifications will provide the same result and fall within the spirit of the claimed invention. It is the intention, therefore, to limit the invention only as indicated by the scope of the claims.

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Abstract

L'invention concerne un système, un appareil et un procédé de réservation qui permettent à un utilisateur de réserver l'occupation d'un bien collectif. Pour ce faire, un dispositif de réservation pouvant être relié au bien collectif comprend un état disponible, où le bien collectif est disponible et peut être utilisé, et un état réservé, où ledit bien collectif est réservé. Le dispositif de réservation comporte un détecteur de mouvements qui détecte le moment où le bien collectif est occupé. Si l'utilisateur libère le bien collectif pendant un instant, un compteur commence à décompter un laps de temps. Si l'utilisateur ne réoccupe pas le bien collectif avant la fin de ce laps de temps, le dispositif de réservation passe de l'état réservé à l'état disponible. Le dispositif de réservation permet également à l'utilisateur de faire des demandes de services.
PCT/US2013/060417 2013-09-16 2013-09-18 Système et appareil de réservation permettant de réserver l'occupation d'un bien collectif, et procédé d'utilisation Ceased WO2015038169A1 (fr)

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US14/027,311 US20140039946A1 (en) 2010-05-17 2013-09-16 Reservation system and apparatus for reserving occupancy of a communal item and method of use
US14/027,311 2013-09-16

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Cited By (4)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3143903A1 (fr) * 2015-09-15 2017-03-22 Roland Höhnen Procede et systeme de detection d'un etat d'un element de meuble de plein air, en particulier d'un bain de soleil, d'un parasol ou d'un fauteuil-cabine en osier
GB2558986A (en) * 2017-01-19 2018-07-25 Bidewell Colin A sun lounger cover with occupancy status indicator
US20210010317A1 (en) * 2017-11-10 2021-01-14 Loungera Ip Llc Outdoor chaise lounge with integrated lock-box and communications system
EP3816008A1 (fr) * 2019-10-29 2021-05-05 Lorenz Cronenberg Procédé mis en uvre par ordinateur permettant d'afficher des places assises libres

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US20110050442A1 (en) * 2009-09-01 2011-03-03 Matthew Thomas Hefferon Dynamic occupancy monitoring
JP2012087605A (ja) * 2010-10-20 2012-05-10 Md Technos:Kk 会話型異常検知装置
GB2489046A (en) * 2011-03-18 2012-09-19 Ranjeet Dhindsa Timer and lock device
CN202970378U (zh) * 2012-12-19 2013-06-05 郑斌 一种厕所门
US8565044B1 (en) * 2010-05-17 2013-10-22 Erin C. Spiker Timer for reserving occupancy of a communal item and method of use

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20110050442A1 (en) * 2009-09-01 2011-03-03 Matthew Thomas Hefferon Dynamic occupancy monitoring
US8565044B1 (en) * 2010-05-17 2013-10-22 Erin C. Spiker Timer for reserving occupancy of a communal item and method of use
JP2012087605A (ja) * 2010-10-20 2012-05-10 Md Technos:Kk 会話型異常検知装置
GB2489046A (en) * 2011-03-18 2012-09-19 Ranjeet Dhindsa Timer and lock device
CN202970378U (zh) * 2012-12-19 2013-06-05 郑斌 一种厕所门

Cited By (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3143903A1 (fr) * 2015-09-15 2017-03-22 Roland Höhnen Procede et systeme de detection d'un etat d'un element de meuble de plein air, en particulier d'un bain de soleil, d'un parasol ou d'un fauteuil-cabine en osier
WO2017045859A1 (fr) * 2015-09-15 2017-03-23 Roland Höhnen Procédé et système d'obtention d'un état d'un meuble de loisirs, en particulier d'une chaise longue, d'un parasol ou d'un fauteuil-cabine de plage
GB2558986A (en) * 2017-01-19 2018-07-25 Bidewell Colin A sun lounger cover with occupancy status indicator
WO2018134557A1 (fr) * 2017-01-19 2018-07-26 Bidewell Colin Coussin pour chaise longue avec indicateur d'état d'occupation
US11763210B2 (en) 2017-01-19 2023-09-19 Colin Bidewell Sun lounger cover with occupancy status indicator
US20210010317A1 (en) * 2017-11-10 2021-01-14 Loungera Ip Llc Outdoor chaise lounge with integrated lock-box and communications system
US11885172B2 (en) * 2017-11-10 2024-01-30 Loungera Ip Llc Outdoor chaise lounge with integrated lock-box and communications system
EP3816008A1 (fr) * 2019-10-29 2021-05-05 Lorenz Cronenberg Procédé mis en uvre par ordinateur permettant d'afficher des places assises libres

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