Interactive furniture device

Abstract

We disclose interactive furniture having a solid translucent surface that produces a light or sound output in response to a signal generated from an external stimulus. Preferably, at least a portion of the solid surface lights up when touched, and remains lit as programmed. The device is particularly useful in public spaces, such as restaurants, museums, and waiting rooms and has developmental and entertainment value.

1 . An interactive device that integrates functional furniture with developmental, educational, therapeutic, and entertainment benefits comprising:
 a. at least one exterior solid surface, wherein said exterior solid surface is translucent;   b. at least one sensor;   c. at least one sensory feedback component located within said exterior solid surface; and   d. a processor that controls all aspects of the sensory feedback component.   
     
     
         2 . The interactive device of  claim 1  wherein said processor is located within said exterior solid surface. 
     
     
         3 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein said exterior solid surface is composed of a substantially rigid material that provides light diffusion. 
     
     
         4 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein said exterior solid surface can be cleaned with industrial cleaning agents without harming said exterior solid surface. 
     
     
         5 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein said exterior solid surface is flame resistant. 
     
     
         6 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein two or more of said exterior solid surfaces are joined with an invisible seam. 
     
     
         7 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein said exterior solid surface is nonporous. 
     
     
         8 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein said exterior solid surface has a finish that can be sanded to remove light scratches, marks graffiti, or stains. 
     
     
         9 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein said interactive device is sealed so as to prevent liquids, food, or other contaminants from penetrating. 
     
     
         10 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein at least one capacitive sensor is used to track human presence, movement, or gesture. 
     
     
         11 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein at least one infrared sensor is used to track human presence, movement, or gesture. 
     
     
         12 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein at least one CMOS 3D sensor is used to track human presence, movement, or gesture. 
     
     
         13 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein said sensory feedback component contains dynamic variable and controllable content. 
     
     
         14 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein said sensory feedback component is selected from the list consisting of LEDs, projectors, speakers, and amplifiers. 
     
     
         15 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein said exterior solid surface is laminated with a rear projection film, which provides sensory feedback that is dynamic variable and controllable. 
     
     
         16 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein said exterior solid surface is laminated with a touch film or touch foil system. 
     
     
         17 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , further comprising a battery, such that it can be charged for a period of time and then used away from the charging station. 
     
     
         18 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , further comprising a solar panel. 
     
     
         19 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein the method for changing the device's settings is a specific gesture made by a person or other capacitive body at a particular location on said exterior solid surface. 
     
     
         20 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein said sensory feedback component responds to the movements of capacitive bodies with fluidity that smoothly approximates the natural movement of the activating capacitive body. 
     
     
         21 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein said sensory feedback component can operate either independently or in conjunction with said sensor, or alternate between the two. 
     
     
         22 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein said sensory feedback component is individually addressable and displays imagery, graphics and video that can be modified when said sensor is triggered. 
     
     
         23 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein a shifting optical illusion is created through the combination of color LEDs triggered by capacitive sensors and a decorative color pattern on said exterior solid surface. 
     
     
         24 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein one or more people can interact with said interactive device at once. 
     
     
         25 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein a temperature and/or humidity regulator, sufficient for outdoor usage, is integrated within said interactive device. 
     
     
         26 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein said interactive device contains an input for receiving data. 
     
     
         27 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein said interactive device fulfills an educational role or delivers educational content. 
     
     
         28 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein said interactive device provides relief or therapeutic benefits for individuals with pervasive processing disorders such as autism. 
     
     
         29 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein said interactive device promotes wellbeing and stress reduction for individuals through tactile play. 
     
     
         30 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein said interactive device provides relief for hospital patients, visitors, and staff 
     
     
         31 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein a capacitive agent, which activates the device's said sensor, consists of a person, animal, computer, or liquid with conductive contaminants, such as rainwater. 
     
     
         32 . The interactive device of  claim 1 , wherein said interactive device provides sensorial pleasure.