Key fob with novel electro-mechanical means for key / phone locator applications
View Patent ↗The invention is a novel keychain attachment (or key fob) that will be useful for communicating with a smart phone via Bluetooth. These devices, which are currently available commercially, are used for locating the owner's keys by emitting an audible sound when the owner touches a button on his/her cell phone. Such a device can also be used for locating the owner's phone by conversely sending a signal that will make the phone emit an audible sound. Because those devices are typically small and must include a tactile button, it is not currently possible to manufacture such a device in the form of an ornamental figure, such as an animal, a cartoon character, etc. This invention introduces a novel electromechanical mechanism for activating the required wireless functions in the key fob, while allowing the device to be manufactured in the shape of an attractive ornamental figure.
1. An electronic device, comprising:
a) an ornamental figure;
b) wireless connectivity means within said ornamental figure for receiving a signal transmitted by a smart phone or tablet and activating an audible response in said device, and conversely for transmitting a signal that activates an audible response in said smart phone or tablet;
c) electromechanical means within said ornamental figure for initiating the transmission of said signal to said smart phone or tablet;
said electromechanical means is activated by pushing or pulling a rigid actuator that is protruding from said ornamental figure; and
d) means for attaching said rigid actuator directly to an external object or structure.
2. A device according to claim 1 , constructed and arranged as a keychain or keychain attachment.
3. A device according to claim 1 , wherein said audible response is generated by a component for generating audible sound.
4. A device according to claim 1 , wherein said wireless connectivity means utilizes a common short-distance communication protocol.
5. A device according to claim 1 , wherein said wireless connectivity means is used for locating the device.
6. A device according to claim 1 , wherein said wireless connectivity means is used for locating the owner's phone or tablet.
7. A device according to claim 1 , wherein said rigid actuator is a metal rod.
8. A device according to claim 1 , wherein said rigid actuator is a plastic rod.
9. A device according to claim 1 , wherein said ornamental figure is chosen from the group consisting of animal figures and cartoon characters.
10. A device according to claim 1 , wherein said ornamental figure is made of plastic.
11. A device according to claim 1 , further including flash memory that is provided through a USB interface.