Abstract: A multi-functional teaching assistive device comprising of a board-like panel 101 serving as a writable surface and a digital projection screen, a built-in microphone 102 enables voice commands, an automated covering unit 103 with cleaning components, including a spray unit 106 and motorized dusters mounted on a motorized two-axis slider, cleans the board 101 based on a photoelectric sensor, a retracting projector 117 with a dedicated deployable white sheet 119 for digital content, a planar manipulator assembly 122 with telescopic rods 121 precisely positions a gun barrel arrangement 124 housing multi-coloured chalks via suction units for automated writing or drawing, enabling hands-free operation, an integrated thermal imaging camera 113 detects student presence for attendance and triggers board 101 covering during unoccupied periods, an audio output unit 126 for reading instructions from the board 101.
Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a multi-functional teaching assistive device that is capable of integrating traditional classroom tools with digital and automated functionalities to enhance educational delivery, promote hands-free operation, and facilitate interactive learning experiences.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The evolution of educational technology consistently seeks to bridge the gap between conventional teaching methods and modern interactive learning. Existing solutions, ranging from basic blackboards to advanced digital smart boards, each offer distinct advantages but often fall short in providing a truly integrated and autonomously managed learning environment. Current digital projection systems frequently lack seamless interoperability with physical writing surfaces, necessitating manual intervention for tasks such as cleaning, content synchronization, or even basic environmental responses like presence detection. These limitations often lead to fragmented workflows, increased manual burden on educators, and a missed opportunity for a truly adaptive and intelligent classroom.
[0003] Traditionally, classrooms have relied heavily on static teaching aids like blackboards, chalks, markers and whiteboards. While fundamental for direct instruction, these tools inherently come with drawbacks such as dust accumulation, the labor-intensive requirement for manual cleaning, and a complete absence of features for digital content storage, retrieval, or automated interaction. They offer no support for real-time adjustments based on student presence or for providing hands-free operational capabilities, which can be particularly challenging for educators with physical impairments. The pervasive need, therefore, is for a multi-functional device that transcends these conventional limitations by merging integrated digital display, automated maintenance, and intelligent management to create a more efficient, accessible, and interactive teaching paradigm.
[0004] US20140164984A1 discloses about an invention of a whiteboard that may enable two or more users to interact with the whiteboard concurrently. The whiteboard may identify the users interacting with the whiteboard and may identify permission settings associated with the users. Based on the identification of the users and detected permission settings, the whiteboard may activate a whiteboard records accessibility mode to provide access to whiteboard records. In a public mode, any user may interact with the whiteboard, and the whiteboard may provide access to a public records data store. In a private mode, the whiteboard may provide access to a separate private records data store associated with an authenticated user interacting with the whiteboard. When two users interact with the whiteboard concurrently, the whiteboard may separate the whiteboard records such that each user can access records corresponding to the detected permission settings.
[0005] CN104553514A disclose about an invention of that provides a self-cleaning whiteboard. The self-cleaning whiteboard comprises a whiteboard, a cleaning device, a control panel I and a power supply, wherein the cleaning device comprises a cleaning rod, a cleaning head and a control panel II; a transmission belt and a motor are arranged in the cleaning rod; the transmission belt is connected with the cleaning head; the control panel II drives the transmission belt to drive by controlling the operation of the motor so as to control the cleaning head to move along the direction of the cleaning rod. The self-cleaning whiteboard provided by the invention is simple in structure, novel in design and convenient to use, and has a good market prospect.
[0006] Conventionally, many devices are disclosed that aim to assist in teaching and learning environments. These often include standalone whiteboards, blackboards, digital projectors, and interactive flat panels. While each offers specific functionalities, such as providing a surface for writing or displaying digital content, they typically suffer from a lack of integrated automation and comprehensive multi-functionality. For instance, traditional boards demand manual cleaning, leading to inefficiencies and mess, while digital projectors usually require separate screens and manual setup. Furthermore, solutions for classroom management, like attendance tracking or automated environmental responses, often rely on fragmented systems or manual processes, increasing the workload for educators.
[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that integrates diverse teaching functionalities into a single and automated platform. Such a device should provide a unified surface capable of both traditional writing and digital projection, incorporate self-cleaning features, offer automated content delivery and interactive writing capabilities, and facilitate smart classroom management features such as presence detection and remote control.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.
[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that seamlessly integrates the capabilities of a traditional writable board with a digital projection surface, enabling versatile instructional delivery.
[0010] Another object of the present invention is to automate the cleaning process of the teaching board, thereby eliminating manual effort and maintaining optimal surface clarity for continuous use.
[0011] Another object of the present invention is to enable automated, hands-free writing and drawing on the board, particularly benefiting educators with physical impairments and streamlining content creation.
[0012] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that incorporate intelligent classroom management features, such as automated student presence detection and attendance logging, and to trigger automated responses based on classroom occupancy.
[0013] Yet another object of the present invention is to offer comprehensive remote control and customization options for the device, allowing educators to manage teaching materials, schedules, and learning preferences from a remote user interface.
[0014] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0015] The present invention relates to a multi-functional teaching assistive device that is capable of enhancing teaching process, thereby streamlining classroom management, promoting hands-free operation for writing or drawing, fostering interactive learning experiences, and integrating traditional and digital instructional methodologies through automation.
[0016] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a multi-functional teaching assistive device comprises a board-like panel configured with a writable surface developed to be installed inside a learning space, wherein the board is capable of functioning both as a traditional blackboard and a digital projection surface for user-interaction, a covering unit mounted on top and bottom guiding rails provided on the board, the covering unit comprising a hinge joint for folding/unfolding, and a plurality of cleaning components installed on its inner side facing the board, the components being operable based on voice commands and data input, a spray unit mounted above a water chamber located within the covering unit, the spray unit being installed via a motorized ball-and-socket joint and configured to disperse water for cleaning purposes based on signals received from a photoelectric sensor provided on the board that detects board cleanliness, a motorized two-axis slider arranged along the inner periphery of the covering unit, the slider supporting an L-shaped link divided into a wet duster holder and a dry duster holder, wherein duster is configured to clean the board in response to the detection of dirt or chalk marks by the photoelectric sensor, a storage unit installed on the top side of the board, the storage unit housing a first motorized roller integrated with a horizontally retractable hard sheet provided with multi-hinges, a projector mounted at the end of the sheet and extends vertically upon voice command to project images or content on surface of the board, and a motorized second roller mounted on an upper periphery of the device, the second roller being operable to unroll a white sheet downward to serve as a projection surface when the projector is activated.
[0017] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the device further comprises of a thermal imaging camera mounted on the board to detect student presence within the learning space, the thermal camera working in conjunction with an Internet of Thing (IoT) module integrated within an inbuilt microcontroller to log student presence duration and trigger automated responses, including covering the board during unoccupied periods, a circular housing provided at the bottom side of the board and connected to a planar manipulator assembly, the housing being linked to a pair of telescopic rods, which are further connected to another circular unit configured with a gun barrel arrangement housing multiple chalks of different colors, the chalks being held via suction units provided within slots provided with the gun barrel arrangement, wherein the planar manipulator assembly and telescopic rods are configured to move in multiple directions to enable automatic writing or drawing on the board based on voice commands or inputs from the application, thereby facilitating hands-free operation, particularly in cases where the teacher is physically impaired, wherein a built-in microphone is configured with the board to receive voice commands from a user, the microphone operably connected to the microcontroller for executing command-based actions, a remote user-interface associated with the device, enabling individual teachers to securely log in, upload teaching material, schedule tasks, and control the device remotely, and the uploaded content is wirelessly transmitted to the board for in-class display and interaction, wherein the gun barrel arrangement rotates to switch between different chalk colors and the manipulator assembly precisely positions selected chalks for automated board writing, an imaging unit integrated with a facial recognition protocol provided with the board for identifying individual students for attendance logging and personalization, the projector component is activated upon receipt of a specific voice command, and the microcontroller extends the projector outward via a motorized hinge-based platform for optimal display angle, and the board is integrated with an audio output unit for reading out instructions, responses, or teaching material in an interactive voice format.
[0018] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a multi-functional teaching assistive device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0020] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
[0021] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.
[0022] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.
[0023] The present invention relates to a multi-functional teaching assistive device that is capable of revolutionize the educational experience by seamlessly integrating conventional teaching methodologies with advanced digital functionalities and comprehensive automation. The device features hands-free operation for writing or drawing, fostering interactive learning experiences, and seamlessly integrating traditional and digital instructional methodologies through advanced automation.
[0024] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a multi-functional teaching assistive device is illustrated, comprising a board-like panel 101 configures with a writable surface developed to be installed inside a learning space, a microphone 102 configured with the board 101, a covering unit 103 comprising a hinge joint 104 mounted on top and bottom guiding rails 105 provided on the board 101, a spray unit 106 installed via a motorized ball-and-socket joint 107 mounted on a water chamber 108 located within the covering unit 103, a motorized two-axis slider 109 arranged along the inner periphery of the covering unit 103, a L-shaped link 110 divided into a wet duster holder 111 and a dry duster holder 112 integrated on the slider 109.
[0025] Figure 1 further illustrates a thermal imaging camera 113 installed on the board 101, a storage unit 114 installed on the top side of the board 101 housing a first motorized roller 115 integrated with a horizontally retractable hard sheet 116 at the end of which a projector 117 is mounted, a motorized second roller 118 mounted on an upper periphery of the device being operable to unroll a white sheet 119 downward to serve as a projection surface, a circular housing 120 provided at the bottom side of the board 101 linked to a pair of telescopic rods 121, the rods 121 connected to a planar manipulator assembly 122 which are further connected to another circular unit 123 configured with a gun barrel arrangement 124, an imaging unit 125 installed on the board 101, an audio output unit 126 integrated on the board 101.
[0026] The device disclosed herein includes a board-like panel 101 configured with a writeable surface developed to be installed inside a learning space. The board 101 is capable of functioning both as a specialized surface that not only accepts conventional chalk for blackboard-style writing but also functions as a high-resolution projection screen. The dual capability is achieved through internal layering and material selection that optimized for both diffuse projection and erasable writing. At its core lies a robust substrate, made of materials like high-density fiberboard, providing essential structural rigidity and flatness. Bonded to the core is the critical top surface, which is typically a specially formulated, matte-finish porcelain enamel steel or an advanced polymer coating.
[0027] A user activates the device for further operation, which is done by a simple pressing of a push button installed on the board 101. The push button is typically made from polycarbonate. When push button is pressed by the user to switch on the device, then allows current to flow. This sends a signal to the device's microcontroller, instructing to activate the device. The microcontroller then powers up the device, enabling them to function.
[0028] Once the device powers up, the microcontroller activates a built-in microphone 102 configured with the board 101 to receive voice commands from the user. The microphone 102 operably connected to the microcontroller for executing command-based actions. The microphone 102 functions as a transducer, converting sound waves into electrical signals. Sound waves, which are variations in air pressure, strike a thin, sensitive diaphragm. The diaphragm vibrates in response to the pressure changes. Here, the diaphragm forms one plate of a capacitor with a permanently charged material (electret) on the other. As the diaphragm vibrates, the distance between these plates changes, causing a corresponding change in electrical capacitance. The capacitance change is then converted into a usable analog electrical signal by a small, integrated pre-amplifier circuit, which is subsequently sent to the device's microcontroller for processing.
[0029] After activation of the microphone 102, the user provides input voice command for unfolding a covering unit 103 mounted on top and bottom guiding rails 105 provided on the board 101. The covering unit 103 comprising a hinge joint 104 that facilitates its folding and unfolding motion, allowing the unit 103 to cover or uncover the board 101. The hinge joint 104 consist of two rigid plates connected by a pin that acts as a pivot. Each plate is designed to attach to the covering unit 103 and the board 101. The pin is inserted through a series of interlocking cylindrical segments, known as knuckles, formed by the rolled edges of the plates. This allows the plates, and thus the attached components, to rotate smoothly relative to each other around a fixed axis defined by the pin, enabling the opening and closing or folding/unfolding motion of the covering unit 103.
[0030] The guiding rails 105 on which the covering unit 103 is mounted, consists of two primary components: the rail itself, which is a fixed, precisely machined track, and a moving block that travels along it. The block typically houses internal recirculating rolling elements such as cylindrical rollers. These rolling elements are sandwiched between the block and the rail within specially designed raceways. As the covering unit's block moves along the rail 105, the rolling elements rotate and continuously cycle through a return path within the block, enabling smooth, low-friction linear motion. The rails 105 ensures stable, precise, and repeatable movement of the covering unit 103 along its designated path, and supporting the load of a plurality of cleaning components such as but not limited to brushes installed on the covering unit’s inner side facing of the board 101 to clean the board 101 before use.
[0031] A photoelectric sensor is installed on the board 101 that detects boards cleanliness. The photoelectric sensor operates by continuously emitting a controlled beam of light onto the board's surface and then measuring the characteristics of the light reflected or received. Internally, the sensor comprises a light emitter typically a Light Emitting Diode (LED) that sends out a beam of light, and a light receiver typically a photodiode that detects the light. When the board 101 is clean, a consistent amount and quality of light is reflected back to the receiver. However, when chalk marks, smudges, or dirt are present, they alter the reflection properties of the surface either absorbing more light or scattering the light differently. The receiver detects the change in the intensity and pattern of the reflected light. The detected change is then converted into an electrical signal, which is transmitted to the device's integrated microcontroller. The microcontroller analyses this signal against a pre-set threshold, and in case, the deviation indicates sufficient dirt, then the microcontroller triggers the automated cleaning sequence of a spray unit 106 and dusters.
[0032] The spray unit 106 mounted above a water chamber 108 located within the covering unit 103 to disperse water for cleaning purposes. The spray unit 106 consists of a pump, which draws water from the integrated water chamber. This pump, upon activation by the microcontroller pressurizes the water. The pressurized water is then directed through a conduit to a nozzle, which is specifically designed to atomize the water into a fine mist or targeted spray pattern for effective cleaning of the board 101 surface. The chamber 108 works as water reservoir for the spray unit, its primary function is containment, ensuring the water is held securely and made available for the spray unit. The chamber 108 typically features an inlet for refilling and an outlet port connected to the spray unit’s pump, and a level sensor to indicate when a refill is needed.
[0033] Furthermore, the nozzle assembly of the spray unit 106 is mounted via a motorized ball-and-socket joint 107 to dispense the water evenly over the board 101. The joint 107 comprises a spherical "ball" component nestled within a "socket" housing. The key to its motorization lies in the integration of small, compact motors, typically stepper motors, directly acting upon the ball or the socket. These motors use gearing process to exert torque, causing the ball to rotate within the socket along multiple axes (e.g., pitch and yaw), which allows the attached spray nozzle to be precisely oriented in any direction. The motors are controlled by the device's microcontroller, which receives signals from the photoelectric sensor and commands the motors to achieve the optimal spray angle for effective cleaning, providing dynamic and accurate water dispersion.
[0034] A motorized two-axis slider 109 arranged along the inner periphery of the covering unit 103. The slider 109 internally translates rotational motion into precise liner movement along two perpendicular axes (X and Y) which is typically achieved using a combination of stepper motors coupled with lead screws. For each axis, a dedicated motor drives a lead screw, which features a continuous helical thread. A corresponding carriage is threaded onto this lead screw. As the motor rotates the lead screw, the nut, which is constrained from rotating but free to move linearly, travels along the screw’s length.
[0035] The linear motion is transferred to a carriage that supports a L-shaped link 110 with a wet duster holder 111 and a dry duster holder 112 to clean the board 101 in response to the detection of dirt or chalk marks. To achieve two-axis movement, two such linear stages are typically stacked or arranged orthogonally. The L-shaped link 110 is a rigid, typically lightweight, structural frame designed in an 'L' configuration. Its internal aspect is its integral design for holding specific cleaning tools: one arm of the 'L' is configured as a secure wet duster holder, while the other arm serves as a distinct dry duster holder. The L-shape allows for the compact mounting and alternate deployment of these two different cleaning tools. Its rigidity ensures that as the motorized two-axis slider 109 moves it across the board 101, the duster (either wet or dry, depending on which arm is active) maintains consistent contact and applies even pressure for effective cleaning.
[0036] The device discussed herein, also consist a thermal imaging camera 113 mounted on the board 101 to detect student presence within the learning space, working in conjunction with an Internet of Thing (IoT) module integrated within the inbuilt microcontroller to log student presence duration and trigger automated responses. The thermal imaging camera 113 operates by detecting invisible infrared (IR) radiation, which all objects emit as heat. A specialized germanium lens focuses the IR energy onto a micro bolometer detector array. Each tiny element within this array changes its electrical resistance or temperature in response to the absorbed IR radiation. These minute changes are then measured and converted into electrical signals by an integrated signal processing unit. The unit translates the signals into a temperature map of the scene, assigning colors to different temperature values. This process generates a visible thermal image that depicts heat distribution, enabling the camera 113 to "see" and identify heat signatures, like student presence, even in conditions where visible light is absent.
[0037] In the device, a remote user-interface (UI) is associated which functions as an external control and management hub, connecting teachers to the physical board 101 via a robust communication network. Internally, the UI relies on the IoT module integrated within the device's inbuilt microcontroller. The module acts as a secure wireless transceiver, enabling bi-directional data exchange with remote computing devices like tablets, laptops, and smartphones operated by individual teachers. When a teacher securely logs into the remote UI via their device, authentication credentials are processed, granting them access. The remote UI, residing on a remote server or cloud platform, presents a graphical display that mirrors the device's capabilities, allowing teachers to upload teaching material such as but not limited to presentations, documents, videos, and photos. These uploaded contents are then wirelessly transmitted by the IoT module to the board's microcontroller for in-class display and interaction. Furthermore, the remote UI permits controlling the device remotely, enabling actions such as activating a projector, scheduling tasks, uploading lecture content, and customizing learning space preferences like projection mode, chalk color selection, and automated test display.
[0038] A storage unit 114 is installed on the top side of the board 101, housing a first motorized roller 115 driven by an integrated a small DC motor, functions like a winding spool. Connected to the roller 115 is the horizontally retractable hard sheet, which is equipped with multi-hinges. These hinges allow the a horizontally retractable hard sheet 116 integrated with the fist motorized roller 115 to fold or collapse compactly when retracted and then unfurl or straighten out when extended. When a voice command by the user for projection is received, the motor within the roller 115 activates, causing the roller to unwind the hard sheet 116. As the sheet 116 unrolls, the hinges articulate, enabling the sheet 116 to extend horizontally outwards from the storage unit. The projector, mounted at the very end of this sheet, is thus carried outward and simultaneously extends vertically, precisely positioning it for optimal projection onto surface. When not in use, the motor reverses, smoothly retracting and coiling the multi-hinged sheet 116 back into the compact storage unit.
[0039] The projector 117 mounted at the end of the sheet 116 to extends vertically to project images or content on surface of the board 101, functions by transforming digital video signals into a magnified image using a precise interplay of light and electronics. The projector 117 starts with a powerful Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) light source that emits a bright beam. The light is then channeled through an optical means of mirrors and lenses. In the projectors, light is split into red, green, and blue, each passing through a dedicated, tiny LCD panel that acts as a light valve for individual pixels, before recombining to form the image. Finally, the formed image passes through a projection lens which magnifies and focuses it onto the projection surface, like the teaching board 101.
[0040] On an upper periphery of the device, a motorized second roller 118 is mounted and being operable to unroll a white sheet 119 downward to serve as a projection surface when the projector 117 is activated to project images or contents. The second roller 118 functions as a motorized spindle, an electric stepper motor is integrated within the second roller 118 and associated gearing. The white sheet 119, specifically chosen for its optimal projection surface properties typically matte white for uniform light reflection and minimal glare, is securely attached to and wound around the second roller. When the projector 117 is activated via voice command by the user, the microcontroller sends a signal to the second roller's motor. The motor then rotates, causing the roller to smoothly unroll the white sheet 119 downwards. These controlled descent deploys the sheet to serve as a pristine projection surface, ensuring a high-quality display independent of the board's primary surface. When the projector 117 is deactivated or a command to retract is given, the motor reverses, coiling the white sheet 119 neatly back around the roller 118 for compact storage.
[0041] In order to enable an automatic writing or drawing feature on the board 101, a circular housing 120 is provided at the bottom side of the board 101 linked to a pair of telescopic rods 121 and then each rods are connected to a planar manipulator assembly 122 which further connected to another circular unit 123 configure with a gun barrel arrangement 124 for housing multiple chalks of different colors, the chalks being held via suction units provided within slots in the gun barrel arrangement 124. The planar manipulator assembly 122 and the telescopic rods 121 are configured to move in multiple directions for smooth writing or drawing, based on the voice commands or input from application by the user on the board 101, thereby facilitation hands-free operation, particularly in cases where a teacher or the user is physically impaired.
[0042] The circular housing 120 serves as a foundational anchor and a central hub for the automatic writing or drawing feature is attached. The telescopic rod 121 powered by a pneumatic unit operates by harnessing compressed air to achieve an extended reach from a compact retracted length. Internally, the rod 121 consists of multiple hollow cylindrical stages of progressively decreasing diameter nested within each other. The pneumatic unit, typically a compressor and control valves, delivers compressed air into the largest outer chamber of the rod 121 assembly. The air pressure acts on a piston located within, forcing the inner stages to extend sequentially, much like segments of a telescope. As one stage reaches its full extension, then pushes the next smaller stage outwards. Retraction occurs when air pressure is released from one side and applied to the other, allowing the stages to retract back into their nested configuration.
[0043] Through ends of the of the rods 121, the planar manipulator assembly 122 connects on the circular housing 120 at the board's base, serving as the automated writing or drawing feature’s robotic arm. Internally, the assembly 122 operates through a series of interconnected rigid links driven by precisely controlled motorized joints, which either revolute (rotating) or prismatic (linear sliding) in nature. Each joint is equipped with an independent motor, typically a servo motor, allowing for highly accurate and incremental adjustments. The device's microcontroller acts as the central brain, executing precise control routines and predefined operational sequences. These routines calculate the exact angles or extensions required for each joint to position the attached chalk on the circular unit 123 at any desired (x, y) coordinate on the board's surface. By coordinating the simultaneous movements of these internal motorized joints, the manipulator smoothly and accurately traces letters, numbers, or drawings, translating digital input into fluid, hands-free physical actions across the entire writable area of the board 101.
[0044] Further, the planar manipulator assembly 122 is connected to the circular unit 123 configured with the gun barrel arrangement 124 serves as the automated, multi-color chalk dispenser, providing the specific writing implement on demand. Internally, the circular unit 123 is structured around a motorized spindle driven by a small electric motor. The motor enables the entire gun barrel arrangement 124 which is a cylindrical body containing multiple individual slots arranged radially around its circumference to rotate. Each slot is designed to securely house a single chalk stick. Crucially, each slot is equipped with a dedicated suction unit. These suction units, likely miniature vacuum generators, are independently controllable. When a specific chalk color is selected by the microcontroller via the voice command of the user, the motor precisely rotates the barrel until the desired chalk's slot is aligned. The corresponding suction unit is then activated, creating a localized vacuum to firmly hold and, when needed, extend the chalk for writing, or retract it for storage or color change.
[0045] Additionally, an imaging unit 125 is integrated with a facial recognition protocol provided with the board 101 for identifying individual students for attendance logging and personalization. The imaging unit 125 comprises a camera sensor that captures images or video of students within its field of view. These raw visual data streams are then fed into the device's inbuilt microcontroller. The microcontroller, leveraging its processing capabilities and pre-programmed recognition routines. First, the unit 125 executes face detection routines to locate and isolate facial regions within the captured images. Once a face is detected, it proceeds with feature extraction, identifying unique anatomical points and patterns on the face like distance between eyes, shape of the nose, jawline contours and many more. The extracted facial data is then compared against a secure database of enrolled student facial templates stored locally or remotely. In case a sufficient match is found, the unit 125 positively identifies the student. The identification triggers specific actions, such as attendance logging and enabling personalization features, allowing the device to adapt to individual student needs and preferences.
[0046] An audio output unit 126 is also installed on the board 101 for reading out instructions, responses, or teaching materials in an interactive voice format. The audio output 126 unit functions by converting digital audio signals generated by the microcontroller into audible sound waves. The unit consists of a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) that transforms the digital audio data into a continuous analog electrical signal. The analog signal, which is very low in power, is then fed into an audio amplifier. The amplifier boosts the signal’s voltage and current significantly, providing enough power to drive a speaker. The speaker, usually an electro-acoustic transducer, contains a voice coil attached to a diaphragm. The amplified electrical signal causes the voice coil to vibrate within a magnetic field, which in turn causes the diaphragm to move back and forth, generating sound waves that are perceived as instructions, responses, or teaching material in an interactive voice format.
[0047] Lastly, a battery (not shown in figure) is associated with the device to supply power to electrically powered components which are employed herein. The battery is comprised of a pair of electrode named as a cathode and an anode. The battery uses a chemical reaction of oxidation/reduction to do work on charge and produce a voltage between their anode and cathode and thus produces electrical energy that is used to do work in the device.
[0048] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the board-like panel 101 configured with a writable surface is securely installed and serves as the central interface inside a learning space. Upon device activation, a user provides input via voice commands received by the built-in microphone 102 or through data input from a remote user-interface accessible via the IoT module. The inbuilt microcontroller processes these inputs, then orchestrates the device's multi-functional operations. For cleaning, a photoelectric sensor on the board 101 detects cleanliness; if dirt or chalk marks are present, the microcontroller activates the spray unit, which draws water from a water chamber 108 and disperses it via a motorized ball-and-socket joint. Subsequently, a motorized two-axis slider, arranged along the inner periphery of the covering unit, moves an L-shaped link 110 supporting both a wet duster holder 111 and a dry duster holder 112 to clean the board 101. The covering unit, mounted on top and bottom guiding rails, also features a hinge joint 104 for folding/unfolding, and its plurality of cleaning components are operable based on voice commands and data input. For digital projection, the microcontroller activates the first motorized roller 115 within the storage unit 114 to extend the horizontally retractable hard sheet, which, featuring multi-hinges, positions the projector.
[0049] In continuation, the motorized second roller 118 unrolls the white sheet 119 downward to serve as the projection surface. For automated writing or drawing, the circular housing 120 provided at the bottom of the board 101 anchors the planar manipulator assembly 122. This assembly, connected via a pair of telescopic rods 121, is further linked to another circular unit 123 configured with a gun barrel arrangement 124 housing multiple chalks of different colours in slots held by suction units. The gun barrel arrangement 124 rotates to select the desired chalk, and the planar manipulator assembly 122 and the telescopic rods 121 move in multiple directions to enable automatic writing or drawing based on voice commands or inputs from application, facilitating hands-free operation. Furthermore, a thermal imaging camera 113 detects student presence in conjunction with the IoT module and inbuilt microcontroller to log duration and trigger automated responses, including the covering unit 103 automatically covering the board 101 during unoccupied periods. Finally, an audio output 126 unit provides interactive voice instructions, and the remote user-interface allows comprehensive control and content management.
[0050] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A multi-functional teaching assistive device, comprising:
i) a board-like panel 101 configured with a writable surface developed to be installed inside a learning space, wherein the board 101 is capable of functioning both as a traditional blackboard and a digital projection surface for user-interaction;
ii) a covering unit 103 mounted on top and bottom guiding rails 105 provided on the board 101, where the covering unit 103 comprising a hinge joint 104 for folding/unfolding, and a plurality of cleaning components installed on its inner side facing the board 101, the components being operable based on voice commands and data input;
iii) a spray unit 106 mounted above a water chamber 108 located within the covering unit 103, the spray unit 106 being installed via a motorized ball-and-socket joint 107 and configured to disperse water for cleaning purposes based on signals received from a photoelectric sensor provided on the board 101 that detects board 101 cleanliness;
iv) a motorized two-axis slider 109 arranged along the inner periphery of the covering unit, the slider 109 supporting an L-shaped link 110 divided into a wet duster holder 111 and a dry duster holder 112, wherein duster is configured to clean the board 101 in response to the detection of dirt or chalk marks by the photoelectric sensor;
v) a thermal imaging camera 113 mounted on the board 101 to detect student presence within the learning space, where the thermal camera 113 works in conjunction with an IoT module integrated within an inbuilt microcontroller to log student presence duration and trigger automated responses, including covering the board 101 during unoccupied periods;
vi) a storage unit 114 installed on the top side of the board 101, and housing a first motorized roller 115 integrated with a horizontally retractable hard sheet 116 provided with multi-hinges, wherein a projector 117 is mounted at the end of the sheet 116 and extends vertically upon voice command to project images or content on surface of the board 101;
vii) a motorized second roller 118 mounted on an upper periphery of the device, the second roller 118 being operable to unroll a white sheet 119 downward to serve as a projection surface when the projector 117 is activated;
viii) a circular housing 120 provided at the bottom side of the board 101 and connected to a planar manipulator assembly 122, the housing being linked to a pair of telescopic rods 121, which are further connected to another circular unit 123 configured with a gun barrel arrangement 124 housing multiple chalks of different colors, the chalks being held via suction units provided within slots provided with the gun barrel arrangement 124; and
ix) the planar manipulator assembly 122 and telescopic rods 121 are configured to move in multiple directions to enable automatic writing or drawing on the board 101 based on voice commands or inputs from the application, thereby facilitating hands-free operation, particularly in cases where the teacher is physically impaired.
2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a built-in microphone 102 is configured with the board 101 to receive voice commands from a user, the microphone 102 operably connected to the microcontroller for executing command-based actions.
3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a remote user-interface is associated with the device, enabling individual teachers to securely log in, upload teaching material, and control the device remotely, and the uploaded content is wirelessly transmitted to the board 101 for in-class display and interaction.
4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the gun barrel arrangement 124 rotates to switch between different chalk colors and the manipulator precisely positions selected chalks for automated board 101 writing.
5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an imaging unit 125 integrated with a facial recognition protocol is provided with the board 101 for identifying individual students for attendance logging and personalization.
6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the projector 117 component is activated upon receipt of a specific voice command, and the microcontroller extends the projector 117 outward via a motorized hinge-based platform for optimal display angle.
7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the remote user-interface permits scheduling tasks, uploading lecture content, and customizing learning space preferences such as projection mode, chalk color selection, and automated test display.
8) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the board 101 is integrated with an audio output 126 unit for reading out instructions, responses, or teaching material in an interactive voice format.
9) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is associated with the device for supplying power to electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device.
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202521056014-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [10-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-10 |
| 2 | 202521056014-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [10-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-10 |
| 3 | 202521056014-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [10-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-10 |
| 4 | 202521056014-PROOF OF RIGHT [10-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-10 |
| 5 | 202521056014-POWER OF AUTHORITY [10-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-10 |
| 6 | 202521056014-FORM-9 [10-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-10 |
| 7 | 202521056014-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [10-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-10 |
| 8 | 202521056014-FORM 18 [10-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-10 |
| 9 | 202521056014-FORM 1 [10-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-10 |
| 10 | 202521056014-FIGURE OF ABSTRACT [10-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-10 |
| 11 | 202521056014-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [10-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-10 |
| 12 | 202521056014-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI [10-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-10 |
| 13 | 202521056014-EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION(S) [10-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-10 |
| 14 | 202521056014-DRAWINGS [10-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-10 |
| 15 | 202521056014-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [10-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-10 |
| 16 | 202521056014-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [10-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-10 |
| 17 | 202521056014-FORM-26 [18-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-18 |
| 18 | Abstract.jpg | 2025-06-25 |