TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to aircraft passenger communication and entertainment systems, such as in-flight entertainment ("IFE") systems. The invention has particular relevance to a controller or controller system for allowing interaction between the passengers and the IFE systems. In particular, though not solely, the present invention is directed to a wireless passenger control unit ("WPCU") for an in-flight entertainment system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In-flight entertainment ("IFE") systems are now commonplace on commercial passenger aircraft. Generally, aircraft manufacturers manufacture aircraft for a "wholesale" market which allows the airlines to make additions and changes to the aircraft fit-out to the customers' requirements. An area of growing importance in in-flight entertainment systems is interaction between the passengers and the system. Historically all that may have been provided was a shared TV unit or a small selection of programming, whereas current passengers expect a broad selection of broadcast and/or on-demand content which may be chosen by each separate passenger.

The increase in customer demands requires a controller which can accept passenger input and interface with the IFE system. In current systems this IFE controller is provided through a connection to a seat electronics box. This provides a straightforward method to communicate between the IFE system and an associated passenger control unit (PCU) however it has several drawbacks. The presence of the wired connection may lead to injury or cause obstruction in the aeroplane especially when the cable extends from the seat to reach a passenger. This may lead to additional pressure being put on the cable of the device, breakage, or increased wear and tear. The cable is also an additional weight and expense, particularly the cable reticulation unit which withdraws the cable when not required and often degrades in performance due to over-use or rough handling. The cable also tethers the PCU to the aeroplane; this requires that the PCU meet stringent aviation test requirements. Reducing these requirements may allow the PCU to be treated as a consumer device and reduce manufacturing expense. The regulations present in the aeronautical industry increase the complexity of wireless communications on aircraft. For instance, the use of mobile phones on aeroplanes varies

-l- depending on national rules and regulations because of the possible dangers of interference with other aeroplane electronics. A further complication arises due to the number of passengers present on an aircraft and the close proximity of many of the seats. This may cause two problems, the first of overloading any communication channel and the second in the interference between communication channels. For these reasons, and others, the aeroplane industry has been dominated by wired interface controllers.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved In-Flight Entertainment system or an element of the system, or to overcome the above shortcomings or address the above desiderata, or alternatively to at least provide the public with a useful choice. In this specification where reference has been made to patent specifications, other external documents, or other sources of information, this is generally for the purpose of providing a context for discussing the features of the invention. Unless specifically stated otherwise, reference to such external documents is not to be construed as an admission that such documents, or such sources of information, in any jurisdiction, are prior art, or form part of the common general knowledge in the art.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect the present invention may be said to broadly consist in an in-flight entertainment (IFE) system comprising:

a media server comprising media accessible by passengers through a plurality of media interfaces;

a plurality of wireless passenger control units (WPCUs) each comprising a user interface for interaction between a passenger and the media server to control media accessed by the passenger;

a plurality of WPCU docks each associated with at least one of the plurality of media interfaces and providing a first communication means between the media server and one of the plurality of WPCUs when the WPCU is docked therewith; and

a wireless communication means providing wireless communication between each WPCU and the media server;

wherein a pairing may be established between each dock and any one of the plurality of WPCUs when docked therewith, the pairing being adapted to provide a communication pathway between the WPCU and the media server to control media accessed via the media interface associated with the paired dock.

Preferably the first communication means comprises a wired connection means providing greater bandwidth than the wireless communication means.

Preferably the pairing defines the characteristics of the wireless connection means between the media server and a WPCU.

Preferably the pairing of the WPCU associates the WPCU with a spatial location surrounding the paired WPCU dock.

Preferably the wireless communication means comprises an infrared optical communication means.

Preferably the wireless communication means comprises a time-divided signal wherein each WPCU is allocated a timeslot upon pairing. Preferably the IFE system comprises a system to automatically pair all docked WPCUs.

Preferably this pairing may be effected prior to take-off of an aircraft for a plurality of WPCUs. Preferably this pairing may be achieved by an action by a staff member.

Preferably the pairing of an individual WPCU may be manually changed.

Preferably the media server is adapted to performs substantially all of the processing required by the WPCU.

Preferably each WPCU comprises:

a user interface for displaying information to the passenger and receiving inputs from the passenger;

memory means for storing display data selectively displayable to the passenger via the user interface;

a wireless communication device for communicating to the media server the inputs received from the passenger via the user interface, and receiving from the media server instructions regarding the display data to display to the passenger in response to said inputs; and

a first communication device for receiving updates to the display data from the media server when docked.

Preferably the data stored in the memory of the WPCU comprises software, controls and menu data. Preferably the data bandwidth of the first communication means is greater than that of the wireless communication means.

Preferably the IFE system comprises a theft deterrent system adapted to electronically detect abnormal operation of a WPCU, wherein the theft deterrent system comprises theft alert means to alert staff to a theft event. Preferably the IFE system further comprises a theft deterrent system. Preferably the theft deterrent system electronically detects a change in a characteristic of a paired wireless signal. Preferably the theft detection is adapted to detect a change, greater than a threshold value, in the distance between a paired WPCU dock and the current WPCU location.

Preferably the theft detection system comprises a theft alert device with means to alert staff to a theft event. Preferably the theft alert device may indicate the spatial location at which the theft has been detected.

Preferably the theft deterrent system may further comprise a means to secure all the WPCUs in associated docks. Preferably the means to secure the WPCUs may be controllable by the media server. Preferably the staff may be able to manually lock handsets.

Preferably the theft deterrent system may further comprise an override function adapted to allow the replacement of malfunctioning WPCUs.

Preferably the theft deterrent system includes features of the WPCU as in the second aspect. Preferably the theft deterrent system includes features of the WPCU Dock as in the third aspect.

Preferably the theft deterrent system comprises a detector means for sensing the proximity of a WPCU to the detector means and triggering the theft deterrent system.

Preferably the theft deterrent system may monitor a plurality of WPCUs. Preferably the theft deterrent system will monitor substantially all paired WPCUs Preferably the docks each comprise a system to lock a docked WPCU to prevent removal.

Preferably the IFE system comprises a reporting system to display the WPCU states.

Preferably the IFE system comprises a system to provide instructions to an individual WPCU or one or more groups of WPCUs.

Preferably the wireless communication means comprises a wireless transceiver integral with each WPCU and at least one wireless transceiver associated with the media server. Preferably the wireless communication means comprises a transceiver integral with each WPCU and a transceiver integral with each dock of the media server.

Alternatively the IFE system may further comprise a plurality of transceivers distributed around the passengers, wherein each of the plurality of transceivers are able to be shared by one or more of the plurality of WPCUs.

Preferably the IFE system is adapted to dynamically prioritise wireless communication with one or more of the plurality of WPCUs

Preferably the IFE system is an IFE system on a plane.

In a second aspect the invention may broadly be said to consist in a wireless passenger control unit (WPCU) for an in-flight entertainment (IFE) system comprising a plurality of docks and a media server, the WPCU comprising:

a user interface for interaction between a passenger and the WPCU;

a first communication means for communicating with the media server when the WPCU is connected with one of the plurality of docks; and

a wireless communication means for wirelessly communicating with the media server;

wherein a pairing may be established between the WPCU and any one of the plurality of docks when connected therewith, the pairing being adapted to provide a communication pathway between the WPCU and the media server to control media accessed via a media interface associated with the paired dock.

Preferably the first communication means comprises a wired connection means providing greater bandwidth than the wireless communication means. Preferably the WPCU pairing may associate the WPCU with a spatial location.

Preferably the spatial location may comprise a passenger location or seat environment at or adjacent the paired dock.

Preferably the wireless communication means is adapted to communicate with the media server by way of a time-divided signal, wherein a timeslot is allocated to the WPCU by the media server upon pairing.

Preferably the WPCU further comprises a memory means for storing data selectively displayable to the user via the user interface, wherein the wireless communication means communicates to the media server inputs received from the passenger via the user interface and receives from the media server instructions regarding the display data to display to the passenger in response to said inputs, and the first communication means receives any updates to the display data from the media server when the WPCU is docked therewith.

Preferably the data stored in the memory of the WPCU may further comprise software, controls and menu data.

Preferably the data stored in the memory of the WPCU comprises substantially all of the graphical data required by the WPCU.

Preferably the WPCU is adapted to request enhanced communication through the wireless communication means when low latency or increased data bandwidth communication is required.

Preferably the wireless communication means comprises a transceiver operating an optical carrier signal.

Preferably the wireless communication means comprises transceivers operating an optical carrier signal. Preferably this signal is infrared.

Preferably the WPCU further comprises a theft deterrent system, the theft deterrent system adapted to electronically detect the absence of a paired wireless signal from the spatial location with which it is associated and produce an alert. Preferably the theft detection system produces alerts when the WPCU is removed from a spatial location it is paired to.

Preferably the theft detection system can electronically detect the absence of a paired wireless signal from the location with which it is associated.

Preferably the electronic detection is by comparison of the signal strength against a threshold.

Preferably the theft deterrent system further comprises a theft alert device to alert staff to a theft event wherein the theft alert device comprises an audible or visual alarm. Preferably the theft alert device comprises an audible alarm. The theft alert device may further comprise a visual alarm. The theft alert device is adapted to indicate the spatial location at which the WPCU is associated. Preferably the WPCU comprises lighting elements that may be activated by the theft deterrent system. Preferably the theft deterrent system may further comprise an override function adapted to allow the replacement of malfunctioning WPCUs.

Preferably the theft deterrent system may further comprise activation means that may be triggered by a detector means when in proximity to the detector means.. In a third aspect the present invention may be said to broadly consist in a Wireless Passenger Control Unit (WPCU) dock for an in-flight entertainment (IFE) system comprising a plurality of WPCUs and a media server, the dock comprising:

a docking means for receiving a WPCU; and

a first communication means for establishing a wired connection between the media server and a docked WPCU;

wherein a pairing may be established between the dock and at least one of the plurality of WPCUs when connected therewith, the pairing adapted to provide a communication pathway between the WPCU and the media server to control media accessed via a media interface associated with the dock.

Preferably the first communication means comprises a wired connection means.

Preferably the WPCU dock further comprises a locking means, the locking means selectively securing the WPCU in place and being controllable by the media server. Preferably the WPCU dock is adapted to transfer data by the first communication means to the docked WPCU. Preferably the data comprises menu data to be selectively displayed on the WPCU.

Preferably the WPCU dock further comprises wireless communication means for wireless communication with the paired WPCU. Preferably the wireless communication means comprises optical transceivers to transmit and receive an optical carrier signal between the WPCU dock and the paired WPCU. Preferably the optical carrier signal is infrared.

Preferably the wireless communication means uses time division multiplexing to reduce interference. Preferably the WPCU dock further comprises connectors for external hardware.

Preferably the WPCU dock further comprises a theft deterrent system adapted to electronically detect the absence of a paired wireless signal, the theft deterrent system comprising a theft alert device with means to alert after a theft.

Preferably the theft deterrent system can electronically detect the absence of a paired wireless signal is detected when the distance between the spatial location and the current location passes a threshold. Preferably the theft deterrent system further comprises a theft alert device with means to alert staff to a theft event.

Preferably the theft deterrent system comprises means to secure each WPCU in the paired docks. Preferably the staff may be able to manually lock handsets.

Preferably the theft deterrent system comprises alert means on the WPCU dock. The alert means may comprise visual or audible alerts. The alert means may further comprise use of a user interface on the WPCU dock.

Preferably the WPCU dock further comprises a user interface to the media server. The interface may comprise buttons to operate lights or call staff.

In a fourth aspect the present invention may be said to broadly consist in a method for operating an in-flight entertainment (IFE) system comprising a plurality of wireless passenger control units (WPCUs), a media server and a plurality of docks for receiving the WPCUs, the method comprising a step of establishing a pairing between the docks and respective WPCUs docked therewith, wherein the pairing configures a wireless communications channel between the WPCU and media server to allow the wireless control of a media interface associated with the paired dock.

Preferably the method for operating the IFE further comprises defining the characteristics of the wireless communication channel when pairing the wireless controllers.

Preferably the medium for wireless communication is shared by a plurality of WPCUs through time-division multiplexing. Preferably the wireless communication channel comprises an optical infrared communication channel.

Preferably the method further comprises the steps of:

storing substantially all static data required by the WPCU in the memory of the WPCU via a wired connection when docked;

wirelessly communicating instructions between the WPCU and the media server over the wireless communication channel; and selectively displaying the stored data to the passenger based at least in part on instructions received from the media server.

Preferably the pairing associates the WPCU with a spatial location associated with a seat or passenger area.

Preferably the IFE system comprises a plurality of infrared transceivers, at least one of the infrared transceivers located in each of the WPCUs.

Preferably the IFE system comprises a plurality of infrared transceivers located in the WPCUs and the media server. Preferably the method further comprises detecting the absence of a paired WPCU and triggering a theft deterrent mechanism.

Preferably the method comprises a step of detecting a theft event when a paired WPCU is absent, distant or incorrectly operating and triggering a theft deterrent system

Preferably the method comprises a step of the theft deterrent system stopping normal operation of the WPCU when a theft event is detected.

Preferably the method further comprises reporting WPCU states to the media server.

In another aspect the present invention may be said to broadly consist in Wireless Passenger Control Unit as described herein with reference to any one or more of the accompanying drawings. In another aspect the present invention may be said to broadly consist in Wireless Passenger Control Unit Dock as described herein with reference to any one or more of the accompanying drawings.

In another aspect the present invention may be said to broadly consist in an In-flight Entertainment System as described herein with reference to any one or more of the accompanying drawings.

As used herein the term "and/or" means "and" or "or", or both.

As used herein "(s)" following a noun means the plural and/or singular forms of the noun.

The term "comprising" as used in this specification means "consisting at least in part of".

When interpreting statements in this specification which include that term, the features, prefaced by that term in each statement, all need to be present, but other features can also be present. Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprised" are to be interpreted in the same manner.

It is intended that reference to a range of numbers disclosed herein (for example, 1 to 10) also incorporates reference to all rational numbers within that range (for example, 1 , 1 .1 , 2, 3, 3.9, 4, 5, 6, 6.5, 7, 8, 9 and 10) and also any range of rational numbers within that range (for example, 2 to 8, 1 .5 to 5.5 and 3.1 to 4.7).

The entire disclosures of all applications, patents and publications, cited above and below, if any, are hereby incorporated by reference.

This invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more of said parts, elements and features, and where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which this invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth. Other aspects of the invention may become apparent from the following description which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred forms of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which;

Figure 1 Shows a block diagram of a WPCU according to an example embodiment of the invention.

Figure 2 Shows a block diagram of a dock for the WPCU according to an example embodiment of the invention.

Figure 3 Shows a WPCU docked with a WPCU dock according to respective example embodiments of the present invention.

Figure 4 Shows the WPCU dock of Figure 3.

Figure 5 Shows the WPCU of Figure 3, with interactive display.

Figure 6 Shows a further view of the WPCU dock of Figures 3 and 4. Figure 7 Shows an example embodiment of a graphical user interface which may be displayed on the interactive display of a WPCU according to the present invention.

Figure 8 Shows a wireless connection between the WPCU and the WPCU dock of

Figure 3.

Figure 9 Shows an example of a security measure in an embodiment of a WPCU according to the present invention.

Figure 10 Shows an embodiment of an IFE system with WPCUs according to an embodiment of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example with reference to Figures 1 through 10.

Wireless Passenger Control Unit (WPCU)

The invention is designed to provide wireless communications within the confines of the aircraft environment and regulatory restrictions. The term aircraft is used broadly to describe any type of passenger craft where many people or passengers are seated or positioned in a limited spatial environment. The term passenger may refer to any person or user of the system including staff and/or system engineers. The term wireless communication generally refers to a system having a transceiver at each end of the connection, of the portion of the connection which is wireless, or in less preferable embodiments the signal may be in a single direction involving a receiver and transmitter. A wired connection is a direct or fixed connection between the controller may be connected by a cable, including a retracting cable or may be fitted into a location near the user or passenger and directly attached to the system (e.g. without a cable or wire visible or external). For example a controller mounted to contact pins or points would be considered wired because there is a physical contact between the controller and the connection point. A short range wireless connection provides a similar connection to a wired connection as it allows a higher bandwidth connection than the wireless connection.

Figure 10 shows an embodiment of an IFE system having a control or media centre/server 103 and wiring 104 to seat electronics boxes 105. The seat electronics boxes may control the operation of a single passenger seat or a small group of passenger seats (e.g. a single row of seats). The seat electronics boxes may be associated with or wired to a visual display unit 107 and/or a wireless passenger control unit (WPCU) holder or dock 312. The docks may be associated with WPCUs 31 1 which may be detached from a first communication means which may comprise a short range wireless or temporary wired connection provided by the dock 312. Whilst a preferred IFE system has been described, the WPCU of the present invention may be used with other IFE systems which may not include all components of the system described, or which may comprise further components.

Figures 1 and 2 provide block diagrams of the WPCU and WPCU dock, respectively. The WPCU, shown in Figure 1 , comprises at least a user interface device such as a touch screen 1 for receiving passenger control inputs, and communications system 3 for communicating the remainder of the IFE system. The relative lack of features in the WPCU allows for very low cost units to be produced, reducing the running costs of the system and the expense if units are lost, as well as extending the battery life of the wireless units. Further advantages may be provided by the light weight and thin-line profile and the processing power being provided largely by the IFE system instead of the handset. That is, the WPCU may be thought of as a "dumb" terminal with at least a significant proportion of processing being performed by other, wired, components of the IFE system such as the media server 103 and/or seat electronic boxes 105. In some embodiments further features may be contained in the WPCU or in the communications system of the WPCU, these features may comprise anti-theft system, battery 3 or energy providing device, memory storage 4 or microcontroller. In particular embodiments the battery may be a high capacity battery or capacitor; it may be charged through a heat engine or solar power. Preferably, however, it may be charged by the IFE system, for instance through a dock or holder 312. The charging is preferably provided by way of a wired connection, although in some embodiments the WPCU may be charged wirelessly (e.g. inductively). In some embodiments the memory storage elements on the WPCU may allow the storage of menu data and control systems. The menu data and control systems stored on the WPCU may comprise image or video data that has been uploaded to the WPCU when connected directly to the base station, or at another time. The storage of data on the WPCU reduces the information transfer over the communications link. This is of particular importance for low bandwidth connections, as may be available in wireless IFE systems, as it reduces the pressure on the connection and allows more connections to be made in a constrained environment. In one embodiment the communications link only provides instructions of which menu or control to display, the instructions are received by the WPCU which then uploads the menu or display from its memory. In one embodiment the information stored on the WPCU may be updated when the WPCU is in a docked location, such as the base station or dock, providing an alternative higher data bandwidth wired or short range wireless communications channel. In one embodiment the unit may be able to request for the unit to be docked by the passenger in order to update the menus.

Figure 7 demonstrates an embodiment of the graphical user interface which may be displayed to a passenger/user via a touch screen user interface device of the WPCU. Preferably the touch screen user interface device 301 comprises a crystal clear membrane overlaying a display screen (e.g. LCD or OLED) and responsive to touch inputs from the user. In other embodiments a simpler graphical user interface may be used or a selection of interfaces may be available for different passengers, for instance children. The graphical user interface may comprise a series of menus 704 for controlling one or more of the media (e.g. movies, games, and/or music) selection, passenger lighting, seat position, seat features, media choice, audio volume 702, audio settings, surround sound selection, and contact with staff members 705. The user interface 701 provides a means of interaction between a passenger and the IFE system, and in particular the media server 103 of the IFE system. In some embodiments the user interface may further allow broadcast messages to also appear on the control units, for instance advising a change in the expected arrival time or providing for selection of meal service.

The WPCU may also display media that includes system or broadcast announcements or similar instructions to users regarding characteristics of the vehicle or vehicle operation - for instance location, timing or dinner service or seatbelt requirements. In some embodiments the instructions may be sent to only a portion of WPCUs, for instance those associated with seats of special instruction passengers or those sitting in first class or economy, for example. A number of groups and/or sub groups may be used.

In a further embodiment the unit may update some elements of the data stored on the unit over the wireless connection if suitable connection bandwidth is available. In some embodiments the ability of the WPCU or the IFE system to change the priority of the connection through decisions based upon the use of the transmission may allow for low latency and/or higher data bandwidth connections to some units. For instance, if a passenger or user is playing interactive games or requires audio transfer the WPCU may request the IFE system to prioritise the signal. The prioritisation is preferably controlled by the IFE system to reduce the performance requirements of the WPCU. The prioritisation may involve a WPCU being granted multiple time slots or the time slot of the prioritised unit may be lengthened. Alternatively multiple transceivers, or at least transmitters, may communicate with the WPCU. The WPCU may have further features to provide improved service or security. In some embodiments these features may comprise additional microprocessors or graphics engines to improve performance or display quality. In some embodiments the microprocessor may allow stored software to run on the WPCU without further instructions or continual communication with the IFE system. The graphics engine may be adapted to provide support to the microprocessor or to allow a low power or less expensive microprocessor to be used. The WPCU may further comprise features including accelerometers or gyrocompasses to enable the movement, orientation or another aspect of the device to be sensed or measure so as to allow interaction with the system. Alternatively, these features may be used to track the operation of the system or if the device is being mishandled. The WPCU may have an operating system independent of the IFE system; such systems may include Android™ or Microsoft Windows ^® operating systems. Alternatively the PCU may be controlled predominantly by the media server 103 and/or seat electronic boxes 105 to reduce WPCU cost and improve reliability, or individualised software may be developed for the WPCU. In one embodiment the WPCU is built with a minimum of components to allow them to be made at low cost, ultra-light and super-thin. In these cases there may be very limited graphics or processing power on board the WPCU.

The removal of the cable provides ease of use and flexibility associated with all wireless devices. It may also reduce the cost of the PCU: cable and cable retracting devices can comprise thirty percent of PCU costs. The WPCU may also have reduced costs because the restrictions placed on equipment tethered to aircraft may be less when the device is not continuously linked to the aircraft, as is the case for a passenger's consumer electronics for example. This may allow for more common or inexpensive consumer-type electronics to be used for the WPCU. The removal of cables simplifies the replacement of units which may be faulty or damaged, allowing cabin staff to replace WPCUs mid-flight and improve passenger satisfaction. The ability to quickly fix any problems is particularly important for business or first class seats which are often unused if the IFE system is not correctly functioning.

The WPCU may be paired to a particular spatial location on the plane. This pairing may be configured when the WPCU 31 1 is docked. The pairing may take place automatically at a designated time, for instance before passengers board. The spatial location may be limited to a single passenger seat or row of seats. Alternatively the spatial location may comprise the range limits of the wireless signal to which the WPCU is paired. More specifically, the pairing may be configured by the WPCU and the IFE system (through the dock interface) allocating a signal characteristic to the wireless communications link. For instance, this may include allocating a particular time-divided interval for communication between the particular WPCU and the IFE system. The pairing of WPCUs at the stage when units are in docks located at the seats means that the WPCUs are not fixed to particular seats or passengers, but can be easily reconfigured for use elsewhere. This provides advantages when units malfunction or when a staff member or cabin crew may change a unit for any reason. When changing a unit the new unit may be docked with the system to establish a new pairing and the pairing of the old unit may be removed. This process may require the use of a security device such as access key or password.

Theft Detection

In one embodiment of the invention a feature may be the security measures designed to ensure that WPCUs are not lost, misplaced, forgotten or stolen. This may be an important feature as the removal of the cable untethers the PCU from the plane and may cause an increase in the time taken or trouble caused in ensuring devices are returned to the appropriate location or to staff. That is, not only is the communication wireless, but the PCU is preferably not permanently attached to the aircraft in any way. In one embodiment the location of each WPCU is tracked, or monitored so that when a unit is out of signal range or not within proximity to a spatial position a theft deterrent system is activated.

Possible theft alert devices include sounds, audible alarms and/or light effects. The theft deterrent system is able to activate and control the theft alert devices and may be a separate portion of or preferably combined with the controller of the WPCU, WPCU dock or IFE system. These deterrent effects may be spatially limited to the location at which a WPCU has been removed from (i.e. the dock). Alternatively, or additionally, theft alert device or deterrent effect may be on board the WPCU and may attempt to embarrass or identify the holder or location of the WPCU. These, or similar, effects may also occur at a staff position to alert the staff that a WPCU is missing, preferably identifying the particular dock, spatial location or seat number from which the WPCU has been removed. These features may further comprise audible alarms and/or flashing.

Activation of the theft deterrent system, or at least particular features thereof, may occur through loss of paired signal, incorrect docking, or the reception of a predetermined signal from the IFE system or other device. In one embodiment the theft deterrent system may also interface with other aspects of the WPCU, for instance to detect if tampering is taking place. The WPCU may also cease normal operation when it loses signal, so that it is no longer operable until returned. In one embodiment the screen of the WPCU may display a message 902 as shown in Figure 9. The message may include instructions regarding the seat number or location it came from, or instructions of where it should be returned to. In a particular embodiment a bright LED trim 901 may be located at the edge of the WPCU and this may indicate loss of signal. The LED trim may also be used for other applications of the WPCU, although the theft deterrent scheme should be clear and non-confusing.

In a further embodiment of the security measures the IFE system may monitor the state of the holders or docks of the WPCUs. For instance the IFE may require that all WPCUs are docked when preparing to land. The staff may be provided with information if any WPCUs are not docked within a certain time limit. The appropriate location may be sensed through mechanical or electrical means. For instance a micro-switch or the data or charging connection state could be used. Once WPCUs are in the appropriate location the IFE system may instruct the docks to lock the WPCUs in place. This would ensure that they cannot be removed after staff have checked for their presence, for instance at a point when the plane has begun its descent. In some embodiments tamper proof means may be applied to the dock to avoid any system malfunction or tampering. Tamper proof means may include protective elements on the WPCU dock or sensors associated with possible tamper points of the WPCU dock. In a further example electrical signals may be compared to expected electrical signals and an error occurring when unexpected signals are received.

In another embodiment the theft deterrent alert may be triggered by alternative means, these may include triggers by aircraft doors or specific locations in the terminal or access routes. A WPCU detector means may detect the presence of a WPCU when it is within a certain distance or proximity, say less than 10 meters, or less than 2 or when passing through an aperture or doorway. An example WPCU detector means is a wireless mechanism such as RF or RFID type sensor located in the vehicle or aircraft which is capable of sensing the WPCU, preferably even when powered off and creating a theft alert. The alternative means may also include other parts of the IFE system, for instance, the other wireless communication means or docks may detect the presence of a misplaced unit and provide feedback to the IFE system. Measures which make the user aware of the device, or embarrass the user may be used as deterrents.

In one embodiment a key, staff device, action, passcode or similar alternative may allow staff to stop any alarms or un-pair units. This may be used, for instance, when a device has malfunctioned or needs to be swapped.

WPCU dock

A block diagram for an example embodiment of the PCU dock 312 or holder or base station is shown in Figure 2. The dock 312 may comprise modules for processing and preparing graphics or signals from a media server 5 for transmission to the WPCU, communications with the WPCU 7, communications and connectors for other devices and media interfaces 6 associated with the IFE system and charging elements 8. The base station may act as a conduit for control signals from the WPCU to be communicated to the IFE system, in particular the media server 103, including allowing the WPCU to control the data provided to the passenger via a media interface such as a visual display unit 107 located near the passenger. The media interface may alternatively or additionally comprise a pair of headphones or earphones for listening to music or other audio. An example embodiment of the physical PCU Dock is shown in Figure 4. The embodiment of Figure 4 also comprises interface buttons 414, connections for other devices including but not limited to headphones 413, USB devices 415, HDMI devices 417 or Near-field Communication (NFC) payment cards 416 and a lock or holding device 418 ensuring the secure positioning of a WPCU. An NFC port would allow for purchases to be made by debit or credit cards, or electronic devices with the appropriate hardware and software. This may include on-board duty-free shopping or purchases from the IFE system devices. The lock or holding device 418 may be able to be controlled by the media server 103 and/or electronic seat boxes 105 so that all devices may be secured centrally, or the status of the devices may be ascertained. Preferably the lock or securing device allows a device to be inserted but not removed when in the locked state. The media server may also monitor the operation of the lock. In one embodiment the lock may be controlled by the media server to ensure that WPCU cannot be removed once returned to the dock. The dock may be mounted to the passenger's chair, a chair in front of the passenger or alternative suitable mounting place by suitable dock attachment means 419.

In some embodiments the dock may be used to provide updates to the WPCUs. These may be controlled or organised through the IFE System, and may update software on all, a selection, or a single WPCU. In another embodiment the IFE system may be used to check or monitor the status of WPCUs and notify staff or operators when a unit is approaching failure or has failed. In a further embodiment the dock can be paired with a particular WPCU. In one embodiment the pairing of the WPCU may affect the data or menus available to the passenger. The dock may also provide visual cues for the user of the WPCU, if for instance the WPCU must be recharged or lost signal. In a further embodiment the dock may pair with a primary WPCU but also be able to provide a signal to nearby secondary WPCUs if required. In some embodiments the theft deterrent or security subsystem may be incorporated, in part, into the dock. IFE System

The WPCU may be part of the larger IFE system as shown in Figure 10. The IFE system may comprise a centralised media server 103, communications means 410, seat electronics boxes (SEBs) 105 associated with one or more seats. The centralised media server 103 preferably stores and serves media, accessible by the aircraft passengers through media interfaces, which may comprise one or more of video (e.g. movies), audio (e.g. music), or games for example. The media server 103 may also have portions contained in SEBs or other locations in the IFE to provide suitable and prompt delivery to a passenger. The SEBs may be further associated with equipment or devices to provide passenger access to the IFE system. This may comprise media interfaces such as a screen 107 or audio equipment (e.g. headphones) and a WPCU 311.

Turning now to Figure 8 an embodiment of the wireless link between the dock and WPCU is shown. In this embodiment a direct link between a single dock and WPCU is shown. This process may require the dock and WPCU to be paired or associated before use. This association may take place automatically before flight or may be manually paired by staff in flight. Manual pairing may require a reset key, or passcode or other staff device or knowledge. In an alternative embodiment the docks may be able to interface with multiple WPCU devices, or share communications with nearby devices. In further embodiments the communications link may use a communication means which indirectly links the dock and the WPCU, or which links the WPCU directly to another part of the IFE system. For instance, there may be alternative wireless communications means in the aircraft for audio communications that may also be used by the system. In one embodiment a series of infrared transmitters/receivers may be associated with the IFE system and provide an alternative pathway for communications between the WPCUs and the IFE systems or the docks in particular. The communication pathway permits communication between a WPCU and the media server and provides at least one means of control from being sent between the media server and the WPCU. The communication pathway may comprise both wired and wireless communication means but preferably has at least a wireless portion. The wireless communication means may be adapted or set-up so that communication pathway can be set up to multiple units. This system may be used to provide improved coverage of the cabin and may be used in conjunction with wireless, particularly infrared transceivers in the docks.

The IFE system may provide additional control systems and/or management of the WPCU and dock. In one embodiment the majority of the processing may be performed on the docks 312 or in the seat electronic boxes 105. This may allow reduced cost of the WPCUs and/or visual display units, reducing the cost of replacing or repairing them. The IFE system may further comprise a monitoring means for the docks or WPCUs. This monitoring means may also allow updates of software or data to be programmed centrally. The monitoring means may also comprise the ability to measure the charging rates or performance of the units to identify when replacement or refurbishment may be required.

IFE systems are constrained by both technical and regulatory requirements. It has not previously been possible to provide suitable WPCUs to all aircraft passengers for reasons including the limited wireless communications allowed on planes, the limited bandwidth of available options and the plurality of passengers in a limited spatial environment. One option that may overcome these obstacles is to use a low bandwidth connection with apparatus designed to limit the need for communication across the connection. In a preferable embodiment the invention may operate at infra-red frequencies to minimise radio interference. Alternatively the invention may operate at other suitable wireless frequencies and may use line-of-sight transmission or suitable broadcast means for aeroplane use. One of the obstacles of using multiple wireless communications devices in a confined area is the opportunity for interference between signals. The effect of this interference may be reduced by sharing channels, or multiple channels at different frequencies. In one embodiment the invention may use an infrared channel or channels which are time-division multiplexed. A related embodiment for the transmission of audio signals is discussed in the European Patent Application EP2471710, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. This approach, or similar approaches, of providing substantially similar signals to a plurality devices on board the plane and dividing the signal between the plurality of devices overcomes some of the interference issues.

For example the wireless communications system may provide communications over an optical carrier signal, such as an infrared signal. In one embodiment the instructions and/or information are provided in a digital format for reception and decoding by the PCU. The signal may also be shaped or directed so as to target a selected seat or selected group of seats. The optical beam may be directed using lenses or collimators, or a combination of these elements. Furthermore, the position of the transmitter may also be used to direct the optical signal, or at least limit the spill over from the signal into those regions or seats where the signal is not intended to be received. In one embodiment one transceiver may be located in the PCU dock and a further transceiver in the WPCU. In alternative embodiments the transceivers may be part of the broader IFE system and may be appropriately configured in the cabin to provide the best access to the devices. In a particular embodiment they may be on the seat in front of the user. In other embodiments the transceivers may connect with a plurality of devices and the IFE system may control or organise a suitable arrangement or connections. When using this or similar arrangements the pairing of the system may include the assignment of a time period of the time divided signal to the paired WPCU and WPCU dock with neighbouring or spatially close WPCU docks assigned different time periods. The foregoing description of the invention includes preferred forms thereof. Modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the invention.