Description:BACKGROUND
Field of Invention
[001] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to an erasure system and particularly to an automated erasure system with voice command integration.
Description of Related Art
[002] In traditional collaborative settings such as classrooms, boardrooms, and collaborative workspaces, the use of whiteboards is ubiquitous for brainstorming, presentations, and idea sharing. However, a significant challenge arises in the manual erasure process, which involves physically wiping off marker ink from the whiteboard surface. This manual erasure process is not only time-consuming but also disrupts the flow of discussions and presentations. Participants often need to pause to erase content, leading to interruptions and potential loss of momentum during collaborative sessions.
[003] Moreover, the repetitive motion of erasing content manually can be physically taxing and may lead to fatigue or discomfort for users. Additionally, in environments where multiple whiteboards are used simultaneously or where there is frequent content turnover, the manual erasure process becomes even more cumbersome and inefficient. Coordinating the erasure of multiple whiteboards or ensuring timely content removal becomes a logistical challenge, further impeding productivity and collaboration.
[004] Furthermore, in context of modern smart classrooms or digital workspaces, people expect seamless integration between the digital and physical aspects of whiteboard use. However, the current manual erasing process doesn't quite match up to this expectation.
[005] At present, there is no system in place for erasing traditional whiteboards using voice commands. Here are a few similar or existing solutions. The most common method for erasing content from traditional whiteboards involves manual intervention, where users physically wipe off marker ink using an eraser or cloth. While simple and widely used, this method is labor-intensive and time-consuming, leading to disruptions in collaborative activities. Some digital whiteboard systems offer erasure functionality through touch or stylus input. Users can digitally erase content using a touchscreen interface or stylus, but this typically requires direct interaction with the board and does not leverage voice commands for erasure. Further, smart whiteboard solutions integrate advanced features such as touchscreen capabilities, multimedia integration, and cloud connectivity. While these systems enhance collaboration and interactivity, they do not offer automated erasure functionality or voice command integration for content removal.
[006] Overall, while existing solutions offer various traditional methods for erasing content from whiteboards, there remains a necessity for a dedicated system that seamlessly integrates voice command functionality with traditional whiteboard erasure mechanisms, providing users with a convenient and efficient way to clean the board.
[007] There is thus a need for an automated erasure system that can overcome the limitations of existing prior arts in a more efficient manner.
SUMMARY
[008] Embodiments in accordance with the present invention provide an automated erasure system for a whiteboard. The system comprising a robotic arm equipped with an erasureBot, and adapted to move across a surface of the whiteboard; a microphone for capturing voice commands from a user; and a control unit in communication with the robotic arm and the microphone. The control unit is configured to: receive, from the microphone, and process the captured voice commands; interpret the processed voice commands and determine an action associated with an erasing operation from the interpreted voice commands by utilizing a database; activate, and enable movement of the robotic arm; enable, the erasureBot to erase a marker ink from the surface of the whiteboard; and trigger a feedback unit to provide a feedback and/or display a confirmation message to the user upon completion of an erasing operation.
[009] Embodiments in accordance with the present invention provide a method for erasing marker ink from a whiteboard using an automated erasure system, the method comprising steps of: capturing voice commands from a user using a microphone; processing the captured voice command; interpreting the processed voice commands to determine an action associated with an erasing operation; activating and enabling movement of a robotic arm across a surface of the whiteboard based on the determined action; enabling the erasureBot to erase the marker ink from the whiteboard surface; and triggering a feedback unit to provide a feedback and/or display a confirmation message to the user upon completion of an erasing operation.
[0010] Embodiments of the present invention may provide a number of advantages depending on their particular configuration. First, embodiments of the present application may provide an automated erasure system and a method of efficient and hands-free erasing marker ink from whiteboards, enhancing user experience and productivity.
[0011] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide an automated erasure system that may be capable of accurately interpreting voice commands and performing erasing operations, reducing manual effort and improving efficiency in educational and professional settings.
[0012] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide an automated erasure system that facilitates seamless integration with existing whiteboard setups, offering a convenient solution for erasing marker ink without requiring additional manual tools or equipment.
[0013] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide an automated erasure system that enhances safety by reducing the risk of accidental exposure to harmful chemicals or sharp objects during manual erasing processes.
[0014] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide an automated erasure system that enhances accessibility for users with mobility or dexterity limitations, allowing them to easily erase marker ink from whiteboards using voice commands.
[0015] Next, embodiments of the present application may provide an automated erasure system that improves overall workflow efficiency and reduces downtime associated with manual erasing tasks, thereby optimizing the use of whiteboard resources in various environments.
[0016] This summary is neither an extensive nor exhaustive overview of the present invention and its various embodiments. The summary presents selected concepts of the embodiments of the present invention in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detailed description presented below. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the present invention are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] The above and still further features and advantages of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description of embodiments thereof, especially when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and wherein:
[0018] FIG. 1 illustrates a diagram of an automated erasure system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 2A illustrates a Graphical user interface (GUI) of the automated erasure system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 2B illustrates the Graphical user interface (GUI) of the automated erasure system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 2C illustrates the Graphical user interface (GUI) of the automated erasure system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0022] FIG. 2D illustrates the Graphical user interface (GUI) of the automated erasure system, according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0023] FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram of a control unit of the automated erasure system of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0024] FIG. 4 depicts a flowchart of a method for erasing marker ink from a whiteboard using the automated erasure system, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0025] The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. As used throughout this application, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly, the words “include”, “including”, and “includes” mean including but not limited to. To facilitate understanding, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures. Optional portions of the figures may be illustrated using dashed or dotted lines, unless the context of usage indicates otherwise.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0026] 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 scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
[0027] 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.
[0028] 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.
[0029] FIG. 1 illustrates a diagram of an automated erasure system 100 (hereinafter referred to as the system 100) with a voice command integration, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The system 100 may be capable of interpreting voice commands, using a voice recognition technology. The voice commands may be, but not limited to "erase a board", "clean the board", “rub the board”, and so forth. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any material of the voice commands, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies.
[0030] The system 100 may perform an action associated with an erasing operation and may provide feedback upon completion of the erasing operation. In an embodiment of the present invention, the automated erasure system 100 may be installed on a whiteboard 102. In an embodiment of the present invention, the system 100 may be capable of erasing marker ink efficiently and precisely from a surface of the whiteboard 102, ensuring thorough cleaning without residue or smudging.
[0031] The whiteboard 102 may be a traditional dry-erase or electronic interactive whiteboard, commonly used in educational, office, or collaborative settings for visual presentations of data and teaching. In another embodiment of the present invention, the whiteboard 102 may be any wall, surface, or substrate coated or treated with a writable and erasable material, such as paint or specialized coatings. This versatility allows the automated erasure system 100 to be used not only on traditional whiteboards but also on walls or surfaces transformed into writable and erasable areas.
[0032] According to embodiments of the present invention, the pre-defined location for installing the system 100 may be at the top or side of the whiteboard 102, for optimal reach and coverage during the erasing operations. Embodiments of the present invention are intended to include or otherwise cover any location, including known, related art, and/or later developed technologies, ensuring adaptability and compatibility with diverse whiteboard configurations and setups. The system 100 may comprise a robotic arm 104 equipped with an erasureBot 106, a rail system 108, a microphone 110, a control unit 112, a database 114, a Speech-to-Text converter 116, a Graphical User Interface (GUI) 118, a feedback unit 120, and a power supply unit 122.
[0033] In an embodiment of the present invention, the robotic arm 104 may be installed on the top of the whiteboard 102. In an embodiment of the present invention, the robotic arm 104 may comprise the erasureBot 106 at a distal end. The robotic arm 104 may be, but not limited to, a two-degree robotic arm, a three-degree robotic arm, a five-degree robotic arm, and so forth. In an embodiment of the present invention, the robotic arm 104 may perform wiping or erasing actions using the erasureBot 106. The erasureBot 106 may be arranged on the robotic arm 104 such that an erasure portion of the erasureBot 106 remains in contact with the whiteboard 102 for performing the wiping or erasing action. The erasureBot 106 may be made of a material that may be durable, flexible, and capable of effectively erasing a marker ink from the surface of the whiteboard 102 without causing damage to the whiteboard 102 itself.
[0034] In an embodiment of the present invention, the robotic arm 104 may be arranged on a rail system 108 provided at the edges of the whiteboard 102 to facilitate movement across the surface of the board. This embodiment ensures smooth and precise traversal of the erasureBot 106 along the entire length and width of the whiteboard, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of the erasing process. The rail system 108 may include sensors for detecting the boundaries of the whiteboard 102, allowing the robotic arm 104 to adjust its movement accordingly. This setup minimizes the risk of errors or incomplete erasure, ensuring optimal performance of the automated erasure system 100.
[0035] Furthermore, the rail system 108 may be designed to support various speeds and movement patterns for allowing the erasureBot 106 to execute different erasing techniques based on user preferences or specific requirements. Additionally, the rail system 108 may incorporate safety features such as emergency stop mechanisms or obstacle detection sensors to prevent accidents or damage during operation.
[0036] In an embodiment of the present invention, the microphone 110 may be positioned strategically to capture clear and accurate voice commands from the user. The microphone 110 may be connected to the control unit 112 to allow for seamless communication and processing of the voice commands for initiating erasing operations with the robotic arm 104 and erasureBot 106.
[0037] In an embodiment of the present invention, the control unit 112 may act as a central processing unit of the automated erasure system 100. The control unit 112 may receive the voice commands from the microphone 110. The control unit 112 may process the voice commands using the Speech-to-Text converter 116, and may interpret the voice commands to determine an appropriate erasing action based on the database 114. The control unit 112 may further be configured to manage the movement of the robotic arm 104 and may coordinate with the feedback unit 120 for feedback and confirmation messages.
[0038] In an embodiment of the present invention, the database 114 may store a comprehensive set of commands, erasing techniques, and user preferences. The database 114 may serve as a reference for the control unit 112 to interpret voice commands accurately and execute the corresponding erasing actions with precision and efficiency.
[0039] In an embodiment of the present invention, the Speech-to-Text converter 116 may convert audio inputs from the user, that may be the voice commands received from the microphone 110, into a text format for processing by the control unit 112. This conversion may ensure that voice commands are accurately interpreted and translated into actionable instructions for the automated erasure system 100.
[0040] The Speech-to-Text conversion may be facilitated by advanced algorithms such as Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT) to ensure that voice commands are accurately interpreted and translated into actionable instructions for the automated erasure system 100. The BERT may perform semantic interpretation by identifying synonyms, antonyms, and linguistic nuances to ensure precise interpretation of user instructions. Moreover, BERT may aid in intent recognition, accurately discerning the underlying intent behind spoken commands, thereby enabling effective action by the system. Additionally, BERT may play a crucial role in error handling and correction by assisting in handling ambiguous or unclear commands. The BERT may provide suggestions or alternatives based on the context, thereby minimizing errors in voice recognition and enhancing the overall accuracy and reliability of the system 100.
[0041] In an embodiment of the present invention, the Graphical User Interface (GUI) 118 may provide a user-friendly platform for interacting with the automated erasure system 100. The Graphical User Interface (GUI) 118 may allow a user to input system settings, manage voice commands, monitor system performance, and receive visual feedback on erasing operations, enhancing overall user experience and control.
[0042] In an embodiment of the present invention, the feedback unit 120 may comprise various components that may be, but not limited to Light light-emitting diode (LED) indicators, a display, and an audio device. These components may work together to provide real-time feedback to the user, indicating the status of erasing operations, completion notifications, and the confirmation messages for a smooth and interactive user experience.
[0043] In an embodiment of the present invention, the power supply unit 122 may provide an operational power to the automated erasure system 100 for continuous and reliable performance during erasing operations. The power supply unit 122 may be connected to the robotic arm 104, the control unit 112, and other components to maintain functionality and efficiency throughout use.
[0044] FIG. 2A illustrates a Graphical user interface (GUI) 118 of the automated erasure system, according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2B illustrates the Graphical user interface (GUI) 118 of the automated erasure system, according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2C illustrates the Graphical user interface (GUI) 118 of the automated erasure system, according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2D illustrates the Graphical user interface (GUI) 118 of the automated erasure system, according to an embodiment of the present invention. These figures illustrate different stages of the erasing operation using the Graphical User Interface (GUI) 118 of the automated erasure system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The GUI 118 may provide a visual representation of the erasing operation such as voice commands received, the erasureBot 106 activated, progress bars indicating completion, and a confirmation message upon finishing, allowing users to interact with the system and monitor the progress of the erasing operation in real-time.
[0045] FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram of the control unit 112 of the system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The control unit 112 may comprise computer-executable instructions in the form of programming modules such as an integration module 300, a voice command receiving module 302, a processing module 304, an actuation module 306, a feedback module 308, and a reset position module 310. These modules work together to facilitate the seamless operation and control of the automated erasure system 100, ensuring efficient and precise erasure of content from the whiteboard surface.
[0046] In an embodiment of the present invention, the integration module 300 may facilitate the seamless coordination of various components within the automated erasure system 100. The integration module 300 may enable the control unit 112 to transmit control signals and data to the robotic arm, using an integration module that includes communication protocols. When a user issues a voice command through the voice command receiving module 302 to erase the whiteboard, the processing module 304 may capture and interpret the command, recognizing it as a request for content removal. Subsequently, the integration module 300 may communicate with the actuation module 306, instructing it to activate and initiate the erasure process using the robotic erasure mechanism. The robotic arm 104, controlled by the actuation module 306, may move along the rail system 108 systematically, guided by the integration module 300. As it traverses the entire surface of the whiteboard, the soft eraser material may gently remove marker ink or residues, ensuring a clean and blank surface for future use. The feedback module 308 may allow the system 100 to provide the feedback and/or display the confirmation message to the user upon completion of the erasing operation Upon completion of the erasure operation, the reset position module 310, under the control of the integration module 300, may guide the robotic arm back to its resting position. This seamless automation may ensure that users can continue their presentations, discussions, or brainstorming sessions without interruption.
[0047] FIG. 4 depicts a flowchart of a method for erasing marker ink from a whiteboard 102 using the automated erasure system 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0048] At step 402, the system 100 may capture the voice commands from the user using the microphone 110.
[0049] At step 404, the system 100 may process the captured voice command.
[0050] At step 406, the system 100 may interpret the processed voice commands to determine the action associated with the erasing operation.
[0051] At step 408, the system 100 may activate and enable movement of the robotic arm 104 across the surface of the whiteboard 102 based on the determined action.
[0052] At step 410, the system 100 may enable the erasureBot 106 to erase the marker ink from the surface of the whiteboard 102.
[0053] At step 412, the system 100 may trigger the feedback unit 120 to provide the feedback and/or display the confirmation message to the user upon completion of the erasing operation.
[0054] While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and various embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims.
[0055] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined in the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements within substantial differences from the literal languages of the claims. , Claims:CLAIMS
We Claim:
1. An automated erasure system (100) for a whiteboard (102), characterized in that the system (100) comprising:
a robotic arm (104) equipped with an erasureBot (106), and adapted to move across a surface of the whiteboard (102);
a microphone (110) for capturing voice commands from a user;
a control unit (112) in communication with the robotic arm (104) and the microphone (110), wherein the control unit (112) is configured to:
receive, from the microphone (110), and process the captured voice commands;
interpret the processed voice commands and determine an action associated with an erasing operation from the interpreted voice commands by utilizing a database (114);
activate, and enable movement of the robotic arm (104);
enable, the erasureBot (106) to erase a marker ink from the surface of the whiteboard (102); and
trigger a feedback unit (120) to provide a feedback and/or display a confirmation message to the user upon completion of an erasing operation.
2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, the robotic arm (104) is arranged on a rail system (108) to facilitate the movement of across the surface of the whiteboard (102).
3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (112) utilizes a Speech-to-Text converter (116) for converting an audio input of the user into a text for processing the voice commands.
4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (112) is configured to determine an optimal path and a trajectory for the robotic arm () based on a layout of the whiteboard (102).
5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (112) is configured to transmit control signals and data to the robotic arm, using an integration module that includes communication protocols.
6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the feedback unit (120) comprises one or more of Light Emitting Diode (LED) indicators, a display, an audio device, or a combination thereof.
7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the robotic arm (104) is arranged on a top of the whiteboard (102).
8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the robotic arm (104) is adapted to receive an operational power from a power supply unit (122).
9. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (112) is configured to receive instructions related to system settings, managing the voice commands, and monitoring a system performance from the user through a Graphical user interface (GUI) (118).
10. A method (400) for erasing marker ink from a whiteboard (102) using an automated erasure system (100), the method (400) comprising steps of:
capturing voice commands from a user using a microphone (110);
processing the captured voice commands;
interpreting the processed voice commands to determine an action associated with an erasing operation;
activate and enable movement of a robotic arm (104) across a surface of the whiteboard (102) based on the determined action;
enabling the erasureBot (106) to erase the marker ink from the whiteboard surface; and
trigger a feedback unit (120) to provide a feedback and/or display a confirmation message to the user upon completion of an erasing operation.
Date: April 24, 2024
Place: Noida

Dr. Keerti Gupta
Agent for the Applicant
(IN/PA-1529)