CA2329693A1 - Reconfigurable remote control unit with preprogrammed macro functions and method - Google Patents
Reconfigurable remote control unit with preprogrammed macro functions and method Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2329693A1 CA2329693A1 CA 2329693 CA2329693A CA2329693A1 CA 2329693 A1 CA2329693 A1 CA 2329693A1 CA 2329693 CA2329693 CA 2329693 CA 2329693 A CA2329693 A CA 2329693A CA 2329693 A1 CA2329693 A1 CA 2329693A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- remote control
- control transmitter
- signals
- keypad
- transmitter
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G08—SIGNALLING
- G08C—TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS FOR MEASURED VALUES, CONTROL OR SIMILAR SIGNALS
- G08C19/00—Electric signal transmission systems
- G08C19/16—Electric signal transmission systems in which transmission is by pulses
- G08C19/28—Electric signal transmission systems in which transmission is by pulses using pulse code
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G08—SIGNALLING
- G08C—TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS FOR MEASURED VALUES, CONTROL OR SIMILAR SIGNALS
- G08C2201/00—Transmission systems of control signals via wireless link
- G08C2201/30—User interface
- G08C2201/33—Remote control using macros, scripts
Abstract
A reconfigurable remote control transmitter for children. This transmitter is capable of learning remote control signals from a plurality of existing remote control devices, storing those signals and repeating the signals on demand, so that this remote control transmitter may operate a plurality of components including: a television, a Video Cassette Recorder (VCR) and a cable converter box or satellite television converter box. In a preferred embodiment, the remote control transmitter may operate two separate television systems, where the television systems may each include a television, a VCR
and a cable or satellite converter box.
The reconfigurable remote control is designed for children, having a parental keypad that is inaccessible to children. This arrangement allows a parent to designate up to five channels that may be accessed using the remote control, so that a child using the device may only access channels that are approved and programmed by the parents. The remote control transmitter also includes a microprocessor that contains preprogrammed macro functions, which causes the transmitter to transmit a plurality of signals to several remotely controlled devices. The signals are transmitted in a particular sequence with a timed delay therebetween, so that multiple signals are transmitted in sequence after a user inputs a single command into the remote control transmitter.
and a cable or satellite converter box.
The reconfigurable remote control is designed for children, having a parental keypad that is inaccessible to children. This arrangement allows a parent to designate up to five channels that may be accessed using the remote control, so that a child using the device may only access channels that are approved and programmed by the parents. The remote control transmitter also includes a microprocessor that contains preprogrammed macro functions, which causes the transmitter to transmit a plurality of signals to several remotely controlled devices. The signals are transmitted in a particular sequence with a timed delay therebetween, so that multiple signals are transmitted in sequence after a user inputs a single command into the remote control transmitter.
Description
Inventors: John Stephen and Bruce Lundeen I _ Field of the Invention The present invention relates generaDy to recon~gurable remote controls that to may be programmed to operate a plurality of remotely controlled devices.
Specifically, the present invention includes a reconfllurable infrared (IR) remote control transmitter for children capable of learnfng remote control signals from a plurality of existing remote control devices, storing those signals and repeating the signals on demand, so that the remote conrrol transmitter may operate a plurality of components Including a 15 televisjon, a Video Cassette Recorder tvCR) and a cable converter box or satellite television corLVerter box. In a preferred embod'unent, the remote control aansmitter :nay operate two separate television systems, where the television systems may each ind ude a celev~siori, a VCR and a gable or satellite converter box.
The reconfigurable remote control is designed for children, having a simple ?0 operating keypad that is used by children and a parental programming keypad that is inaccessible to children. This arrangement allows a parent to designate up to five channels, one of which is designated as a prirtiary channel, that may ba accessed using the remote control, so chat a child using the device may only access channels that are approved and programmed by the parents. The remote control uansmitter also includes a microprocessor rhaL contains preprogrammed macro functions, which causes the transmitter to transmit a plurality of signals to several remotely controlled devices. The signals are aansmitted in a particular sequence with a timed delay therebetween, so than multiple signals axe u~nsrniued in sequence after a user inputs a single command into the remote control transmitter.
z. Discussion of the Prior Art I7arbee 5,422,783 O'Donnell, et at. 5,414,426 Enorrioto, et aI. ~, Iz8,667 Welles, II 4,623,887 The Darbee reference is iizected to a modular casing for a remote control with a keyboaxd having keys thereon for selecting a predetermined function or channel selected from a group of keyboards having different layouts or shapes of keys and adapted to pate with a circuit board having switches thereon corresponding to the keys. Tine disclosed device contains an upper housing member slidingly received in grooves of a panel secaon to form a unitary cover which is secured ~o the Iower housing irtember by screws or snap-fit interaction.
The O'Donnell patent discloses a remote control having a favorite key macro z0 command and a chained macro command. The remote control disclosed In this reference allows a user to ptogratn a macro command into memory for enabling a user to select at lease one favorite channel by entry of a series of keystroke commands on the keyboard.
The Enomow reference teaches a wireless remote controller for outputting in seriatim an operation mode signal for each of a plurality of receiving devices. The remote control d'i.sclosed therein allows a user to control a plurality of receiving devices without having to manually switch between the devices_ The wireless remote controller has a phuality of operation selecdort keys az~d is designed to operate in such manner that when the controller is directed toward one of the devices under control and any one of the operation mode selection keys is depressed, a corresponding operation mode signal is generated and transmitted to a mmotely Controlled device, which responds only w the associated one of the signal components of the operation mode signai_ The Welles. II, patent discloses a reconfigurable remote conuol transmitter la having the ability to learn, stored and repeat the remote control codes from any other infrared transmitter. The disdc ~ed device receives data from existing remote conrrollers, and then compresses and stores that data in nonvolatile tnertiory for lacer use.
None of the prior art, however, discloses a reconfigurable remote control 1~ transmitter designed far children, having a simple operating keypad for children and a limited access parental keypad for programming selected channels, and a preprogrammed macro function for transmitting a plurality of commands to a plurality of components in sequence by entering a single input command into the device_ Further, none of the prior art teaches a reconfigurable remote control having the 2p combination of features outlined above, which may also seamlessly operate two separate television systems, where each television system may include a television, a Accordingly, it is an lmportanr object of the present invention to provide a recorzfigurable remote control uansmlcter for children tFtat is capable of Ieamirlg remote conaol signals from a plurality of existing remote control devices, storing and repeating the signals on demand, so that the rertiote control transmitter may operate a plurality of components including a television unit, a VCR, and a cable or satellite television converter box.
Another important object of the present invention is to provide a reconfigurable remote control uansmitter for children, wherein the device includes a Iirnited access 1 D parental keypad allowing patents to ptogtatrt selected channels for children, so that a child using the remote may only access channels that are chosen and programmed by the parents.
Another important object of the invertxlon Is to provide a reconfigurabIe remote conuol transmitter for children, wherein the device includes at Least one S preprograrnrned macro function that allows a user to enter a single command, which causes the uansrnitter to transmit a plurality of signals in a timed sequence to operate a plurality of cornponenrs.
Yet another Important object of the present invention Is to provide a reconfigurabIe remote control transmitter for children, wherein the device may serve to '0 seamlessly operate taro separate television systems, where each television system may include a television unit, a VCR, and a cable or satellite television converter box.
Yet another important object of the present invention is to provide a reconfigurable remote conu~ol transmitter for children having a simple operating keypad with a relatively small number of buttons with varying shapes to facilitate ease of operation for young children.
Another important object of the present invetlsion is to provide a method for learning, storing arid reproducing remote corzuol signals from any of a number of different existing remote controls, including the step of providing a preprogrammed macro function that allows a single user input to actuate transmittal of a plurality of signals to a plurality of different components in sequence.
Another important object of she invention is to provide a reconfigurable remote control transmiuer that may prngram a separate slave unit through the use of an external connecior-Yet another important object of the invention is to provide a xeconfigurable remote control transmitter that may be used by elderly people, wherein the channel ~ S scan function may be toggled between scanning programmed favorite channels and scanning alI available channels.
These arid other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will became better understood with regard to the foalowittg description, appended claims, ar<d accompanying drawings.
BRIEF~ESCRj~j~l OF ~(~pRA~i~N S
The construction designed ro carry out the invention will be hereinafter descrit~ed, together with other features thereof.
The invention will be more readily understood from a reading of the following specification and by reference ~ ~e accompanying drawings forming a part thereof, wherein an example of the invention i5 shown and wherein:
Figure 1A is a perspective view of the reconfigurable remote control eansminer, showing the limited access parental keypad and the operating keypad; and Figure 1B is a bottom exploded view of the reconfgurable remote control 1 o transmitter, showing the cover separa:ed from the unit, and showing the serial communications port together with the bauery cavity, and further showing the finder module;
Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the components of the reconfigurable remote control transmitter, including two separate microprocessors;
15 Figure 3 is a block diagram of an ahernate embodiment of the rernoce control ~rartsrnitter, showing the components of the reconfigurable remote conuol transmitter, including a single microprocessor;
Figure ~A is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the remote conaol transmitter, wherein the remote control transmjtter is a slave unit capable of being 20 programmed through the external connector;
Figure 4B is a bottom exploded view of the aItemate embodiment of the remote conuol shown in Figure 4A, showing the cover separated from the unit, and showing she serial co~nmunicanons pork having an external connector and cord attached thereto, and also showing the ~ artery cavity, Figv.ue 5 is another alternative embodiment of the remote control transmitter, for use with elderly people_ Figurn I shows the reconfig~uable infrared rerrwte wntrol aansmicter 2, having a children's operating keypad 4 and a parental prop atnming keypad 6. Access to the parental programming keypad is limited by a cover 8. which allows access far parents to program the remote control transmitter, while preventing children from having access thereto. The cover may be secured in a closed position by screws or a tight snap fit, or in any other suitable manner which would allow access for adults while preventing children from having easy access.
In a preferred ernbodintent, the operating keypad includes only twelve buttons, to facilitate ease of use by children. The remote control transmitter may be used to operate either one or two teIevislori systems, where each television system may include a television runt, a vCR, and a set-top device. A set-top device may include a cable converter box or a satellite television converter box.
The remote control transrnixter has two modes of operation. The normal mode t S of operation is the user mode, where the remote control is used to operate a television system. The program mode is used by parents to program 'the remote conuol transmitter. T'he program mode shows the parents to program the remote control transmitter to operate one or two television systems by receiving signal commands from an existing remote conuol, staring the signals, assigning the signals to a corresponding ?o button on the operating keypad, arid emulating the signals on command.
Parents may also designate which channels rnay be accessed by the remote control transmitter, limiting channel access ro those channels chosen and programmed by the parents.
One channel is.designated as a primary or favorite channel. As a default, any user button that has not been defined in programrning mode should not disrupt other functions currently in use, because unptogtammed buttons will have no effect when pressed.
In a preferred embodiment, the parental programming keypad 6 includes fourteen buttons and a Tv11TV2 button IO_ The button allows the user to wggle between television system one and television system cyvo for programming purposes.
The remote control transmitter may be programmed to operate in different ways, depending upon the setup o~ the television system. Then a TV and a set-top device are both plugged into separate outlets, the power button 1.2 is programmed to transmit a power-on or power-ofF command seduence to both the TV and the sec top device.
When a TV is plugged into the back of a set-top box, the power button is programmed ca only turn on the set-tap box. which automatically powers on the T'L!.
Because most z5 users Plug the TV power cord into the back of the set top box, the default setting for the power button is to sirnpIy power on the set top box. As part of the power-on sequence of commands, afrer the power-on command is transmitted, the transmitter unit will then transmit a primary channel command, which automatically changes the television channel to the primary channel that has been programmed Into the unit by the parents.
IF two television systems are programmed into the remote control transmitter, the power button causes the unit to transmit the applicable power-on sequence for television system one (TV~) and then after a preset dme delay, preferably about one second, if the button is still pressed, the unit will transmit the applicable power-on sequence for television system two (TV?).
The parental programming keypad includes six LED displays. LEI?~1 14 is the Start LI=D located adjacent the Start buttor~~. LFD~2 15, is the Leam LED
located adjacent the Leam button 41. LFD~3 1b is the Done LED, located adjacent to the Done button. LED~4 2lis used to indicate that a TV1 system component is being defined or delered_ LF~.7#~ z3 is used to indicate that a TV2 system co~lponenr is being defined or deleted. The User LED 25 is located in the nose cone of the remote 1 o control transmitter, indicating that any user button has been pressed. The Llsez LED
25 is also used during program mode to indicate that a working link has been established beTVUeen the remote devices during the learning sequerice_ First, when a user enters the program made by pressing the Start button Z0, LED#1 will be tamed on. Prior to any programming functions being enabled, the remote control transmitter must be set to program enable mode in this manner.
If no other key is pressed within ten seconds after the remote control transmitter has entered programming mode, tyre LED displays will mm off signifying that the device has exited program mode_ Next. the user presses the appropriate function key, far example T'v ?3, vCR 34, STB 26 or F1 28, si~ifying that the selected function or device has been selected for programming. If no other key is pressed wirhln ten seconds after the device has entered this level within the program mode, LED~1 will rum off signifying that the device his exited the progaram mode_ Next, the user presses either the Leam button ~ 1 or Delete button ~2, depending upon which function they wish to perform. In this example, it is assumed that the user wants to define one of the TV system components and therefore would press the Leam button ~ 1. After the Learn button 41 has been pressed, LSD#2 will turn on to indicate that the unit is in learning mode. 'the user would then point his existing remote at the remote control device and press the buttons on his existing remote as if he were controlling the television system component he is currently trying to define.
When the remote control transmitter is receiving infrared (IR) pulses from another IR remote, the Llser LED 25 will blink, acknowledging receipt of IR
pulses front the other remote, and signifying that a solid link between the two devices has been established. LFD~r3 will begin to flash, when the pulse sequence from another remote for program entry has been received correctly. At this point, the rerttote conisol device is ready to store the resulting memory into data for the chosen function. The user presses the Done button and the remote control unit will flash LED#1, LED#z and LED~3 three times and then all LEDs will turn off signifying that the program sec(uence was either stored into memory or cleared if using the delete function from memory. If the device does trot recogni2e the pulse sequence sent afrer ten seconds of aaempting to receive IR pulses, then LED~1 and LEp~z will turn off, signi'rying that the device has ?4 exited program mode. The device can also exit program mode a: any time if the software cannot recognize the IR pulses being sent from the existing IR remote device.
irk order to support ail the program functions far two television systems, the parental progtatnming keypad will include a TVl/t~l~ button 1D to toggle between television system one and television system two. After the user presses the Start button, either LED~4 21 of LPD#5 23 will turn on signifying either television system one or television system two is enabled for paogramming resqectively. The remote control unit will default to television system one. However, if a user changed the position vo television system nwo in a prior sequence, the unit will stay in its Iast selected state. After the user presses the Start button, he can push xhe TVi/f~12 system button if necessary to select the appropriate system he for which he wishes to define a device.
In order to program the remote control traazsmister, the user will be required to have all the applicable remote devices they currently use to control devices connected to television system one and/or television system two.
Television Device Programming ?'o prog;arn for a television (T1~, the user presses the start button to enter program mode. LED#1 will turn on solid to confirm that Program enable is on.
The user may then select which television system he wishes to program for by pressing the TV1lhl? system button. The user then presses the TV button on the device to confirm to the retxtote control device that the following progzam sequence is for defining a z0 television set. Next, the user presses the Learn burrnn 41 until LFD~2 rums an solid to confute that the unit is ready for IR decoding and learning. Then, the user takes his i3 existing television remote, points it directly at the remote control device and presses the power button. It should be noted chat if the uses existing remote is a replacement universal remote, the user must press the TV button first on the existing remote, followed by the power button_ At this point, if a solid link is established between the two remotes, where the IR path of both units are aligned properly, then the User LED
25 will blink to aclaiowledge receipt of data pulses. If a Ilnk has not been properly established, the remote control transmitter software will cause the unit to wait for ten seconds before aborting the program Sequence, which will cause LED# 1 and LED~2 to go oul. After the pulse sequence has been sent to the existing remote and received successfully by the remote control transmitter, then the gone LED wlli flash, indicating that the user should press the Done button, thereby completing the programming sequence. After the user presses the Dons button, to confurn that the entire program sequence was successful, hED#1, LIrD# and LED~3 will rum on and off in unison three times, then all stun off. This program sequence can be reset at any time prior to iS pressing the Done button by pressing the Start button 2o to enter a new program setluence_ If the user wishes to remove the 1'V device, the user presses the Start button anal LED#i turns on solid, to enter program mode. 1'he user may then select which television system he wishes to pmgram for by pressing the TVl/I'~l2 system button.
?o The user then presses the TV button, followed by the Delete button 42 to delete the TV
device code from memory. LED#3 will flash immediately after pressing the delete button, indicating chat the user should press the Done button to complete the deletion sequence. Note that if a user attempts to delete a device that has not been prograrnrjted, the Start LED (LED##1) will go out, indicating that there is nothing to delete, because nothing had been programmed with respect to the deleted funcrion.
Video Cassette Recorder (VCR) Device Programming ' To program for a Video Cassette Recorder ('VCR), the user presses the Start button to to enter program mode. The user may them select which television system he wishes w program for by pressing the TVl/i V2 system button. The user then presses the VCR button 24 on the remote control transmitter, to confirm to the remote control 1o device that the following program sequence is for defining a video cassette recorder. In this sequence, a5 with any other programming sequence described herein, the LED
displays behave as outlined heretofore_ Next, the user presses the Learn button 4I
urtrll LED ~z rums on solid to indicate that the tutit is in the teaming mode.
Then, the user lakes his existing VCR remote control, points is directly at the remote control 15 device and presses the power button. It should be noted that if the user's existing remote is a replacement universal remote, the user must press the VCR button first on the e~dsting remote, followed by the power button. When LED ##3 begins to flash, the user then presses the Done button ~0 to complete the program sequence. The user rnay also remove the VCR device codes from memory by pressing the Start button, z0 followed by pressing the VCR button and then pressing the Delete button.
Cable TV Set-Top Box or Satellite 1~T Device hrogxamming is To program for ezrher a Cable TV Set sop box or Sateuite TV Set-top box, the user presses the Start button 20 to enter program mode. The user may then select which television system he wishes to program for by pressing the TVIfIV2 system bunon. The user then presses the STB button 26 to confirm to the remote contzol device that the following program sequence Is for defining a SeL Top box. The user then presses the Learn button ~ I until LED#2 rums on solid to indicate that the unit is in learning mode. Near, the user takes his existing Set Top box remote canQOl, points it directly at the remote control device and presses the power button. It should be noted that if the user's existing remote is a replacement universal remote, the user muse !0 press either the Cable button or Satellite button first on the existing remote, followed by the power button. When the LIrD #3 begfns ~o flash, the user then presses the Done button 40 to complete the program setluence. The STB codes may be deleted in the same fashion as described before_ Favorite Channels Setup ~ 5 This programming feature allows a parent to designate up to five channels that the remote control transmitter will access irt user made for the child by simply pressing the scan button. The first favorite channel, designated as the primary favorite channel, will also be available by its own button (favorite channel button 4~) as well as being the default home channel whenever the remote control Cransminer is first powered on.
'o To program for the primary favorite channel, the user presses the Start button ?0 co enter program mode. In this example, the user presses the F 1 button 28 on the device to confirm to the remote control device that the following program sequence is for defining a favorite channel, in this case, the ftrst primary favorite c'bannel. Next, the user presses the Learn button 41 until LED~2 is illuminated, indicating chat the unit is in learning mode. Next, the user takes his existing remote that is used to change channels, points it directly at the remote control device, arid presses the power button followed by the desired channel nu,mbet. It should, be rioted that if the useYs existing remote is a replacement universal remote, the user must press either the Cable button.
Satellite button, or TV button. depending ozt which device is used to change channels, followed by the power button, and then followed by the desired channel number.
1 D When LED#3 begins to flash, the user then presses the Done button 4D on the remote conuol transmitter to complete the program sequence. 'Che primary favorite channel will be available both by its own button arid will be included along with the other favorite channels in user mode via the SCAN button 46, 47. The other channels may be programmed info the remote control transmitter by substituting any of the 1 ~ buttons (reference numbers 3a, 3z, 34, and 36 respectively) in place of the F I button 25 in the above programming sequence, and the favorite channels may also be deleted h .~ following the appropriate delete programming seduence oudined above.
Movie Button Channel Setting The CH4 button 48 located ort the pat~ntal keypad allows the user to sec ?a channel 4 as the tuner out position of the VCR device, if a VCR is used within the television system. The default setting of the movie button is channel 3. This function is only used if the VCR device uses channel 4 for the VCR output signal.
To program the movie channel tuner output for channel 4, the user presses the Srarc bcttton zCt ro enter program mode. LED~i will tum on solid to confum that Program enable is on. The user may then select which television system he wishes to program for by pressing rhe'I'V1ITV2 system button. The user then presses the CHI
button 48 on the device to confirm to the remote contxal device that the following program sequence is for defining the movie channel tuner output to channel 4.
LED#3 will begin to flash indicating that the user should press the Done button ~D
to complete the programming sequence. After the user presses the Dane button, to confirm that the ,0 entice program seduenee was successful, LED#1, LED#Z and LED#3 will turn on and oif iti unison three threes, then a1J turn off. This program sequence can be reset at any rime prior to pressing the Done button by pressing the Scant button to enter a neon program sequence.
If the user wishes flo remove the movie channel tuner output from channel ~
back to the defauh channel 3, the user presses the Start button until LFD#1 turns on solid, to enter program made. The user may then select which television system he wishes to program for by pressing the TVin'V2 system button. The user then presses the CHI button, followed by the Delete button to delete the CHI setting froth memory.
LEp#3 W Il flash immediately after pressing the delete button, Indicating that the user 0 should press the Dor<e button to complete the deletion sequence. Note that if a user attempts to delete a device that has not been programmed, the 5rarr LED
(LED~1) uriIl go out, indicating that there is nothing to delete, because nothing had been programmed with respect to the deleted function.
Pa~wer TV (P'I~Tj Setting The PTV button ?~ located on the parental keypad allows the user to set whether the remote conuoI device should uansmit a power on or power off command to the TV when the user presses the power button. This is used when the TV
system has a Set Top box and the TV set is not plugged into the Set-Top box allowing for automatic powering fmm the Set-Tog box. The remote control devices default state is to o assume that when a Set-Top box is used, the TV is plugged into it to support automatic powering.
T4 program the Power TV funetLon, the user presses the start button to enter program mode. LFD~1 will tum on solid to confitai that Progxarn enable is on.
The user may then select which TV system he wishes to program for both pressing the TV1~VZ system button. The user then presses the PTV buEton on the device to confirm to the reruoce control device that the following program sequence is far defining tire power TV function_ LED~3 will begin to flash indicating that the user should press the Dune button, thereby cotztplzting the programming sequence. After the user presses the DOivIE button, to confirm that the entire program sequence was successful, o ~.Epm, LED~Z, and LEDrr3 will turn on and off in unison three times, then all turn off.
This program sequence can be reset at any rime prior to pressing the DONE
burror< by pressing the Start button 20 to enter a new program sequence.
If the user wishes to rerttove the power TV function back to the default state, the user presses the Start button 20 until Ll=D# 1 curr~s on solid, to enter program mode.
The user rrtay Then select which TV system he wishes to program for both pressing the TV1lI'V2 system button. The user then presses the PTV button, followed by the Delese burtor~ 4z to delete the PTV setting from memory. LED#3 will flash immediately alter pressing the delete button, indicating that the user should press the Done button zo comply the deletion sequence_ Note that if a user attempts to delete a device that has not been programtrted, the Start LED (LED#1) will go out, ittd(catirig that there is nothing to delete, because nathirrg had been programmed with respect to the deleted function.
A user may determine if a given device of function has already been programmed by performing the following steps. The user presses the Start button until LED# 1 toms on solid Next, the user presses the appropriate function button that he wishes to obtain status for (i.e. TV, VCR, STB, and the like). Then the user presses the Delete button. If the Done LED (LED#3) begins to flash, then there is currently a device prograrrzrned for that function. The user then has the optjon of deleting that setting or pressing the Start butrnn to reset the unit. if the Start LED
(LED~1) goes out, then the uslir resets itself automatically indicating to the user that no device was prograrttmed for that function.
To facilitate ease of use by children, the operating keypad has only twelve buttons in a preferred embodiment. The scan buttozts 46, 4~ cause the remote control transmitter co sequentially transrttit channel changing commands in round robin fashion, so that the child may flip through only those channels programmed by the parent- If only a TV is defined for either television system one (TV 1 ) or television system two (?V2) or both, the scan buttons ~6, 47 will cause the unit to transmit the channel sequence by using the TV device code. If a TV anal Set top box is defined, the scan button will cause the unit to transmit the channel sequence by using the STB
device code.
T'fte volume buttons 50, 51 will transmit the volume commands using the TV
l0 device code defined in programming rr~ode_ The mute button Sz will transmit the mute cottimand using the TV device code defined in programming mode. When a VCR is defined for TV1 of TVz, the fuzzy button 54 will cause the unit to uanstnit the VCR
device code to issue a VCR/TV tune? toggle transmit colnmatui. When the play button 56 is pressed, the unit will first transmit either a channel 3 or channel ~
command, depending on whether the CH4 button 48 has been enabled in program mode, followed by the VCR Play signal. The unit will transmit a channel 3 signal by default.
The stop button 58, rewind button 60, and fast forward button 6z will transmit the appropriate command signals to the VCR.
An opeional feature of the remote conuol transrstitter is a serial communications ?a interface 7 for autoFnated progra,tnming from a personal computer. This Interface will be used whenever a major C~EM has a requirement to pre-set the remote control 3~r1 cransm~tteT prior to shipment for ease of setup by the user. This arrangement allows a manufacturer to pre-program the transmitter w operate such components as a specific known satellite sec-top convener box and defined family channel groups. For example, Satellire television companies have the same channel lineups nationwide as well as set-s top box equipment allowing pre-progt-ammmg through this external interface to support about 909 of the transmitters features. allowing for further ease of programming setup >?y the end user- This arrangement would only require the user to define the TV's, VCRs, and perhaps modify the favorite channel settings. In a preferred embodiment, the serial communicatiflns interface is positioned under the cover, so that the cover 1 o must be removed to utilise thr serial communications interface.
Altematlvely, the user tray purchase the unprogrammed remote control transmitter, and may program the transmitter usjng a home personal computer, instead of using the pamntal programming keypad to manually progratd the nartsmiuer.
Another optional feature is a find feature based on a sound recognition circuit l 5 35, which will allow the user to have the remote control transmitter recognize a particular type of sound, such as the clapping of hands or whistling or any other suitable sound, and set off art alert tone. The purpose of his feature is to help find the temate control transmfuer when it gets lo$r. The sound recognition circuit may be plugged into the serial cornntunications port, under the cover of the unit for receiving 2o power- When the serial communications port is deeded for programming purposes, the sound recogniti4n circuit may be unplugged, allowing access for an external connector to an external data source_ Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the components of the remote control transmitter. An IR photorrtodule 66 is used to receive infrared signals from exiszir: rernotes. A fixst microprocessor 68 Ls coupled with the photomodule 66, a t is also used to control arid receive information from the parental programming keyp. 6. An external connector 6~ is used to receive information downloaded from s omputer, when the optional Serial Communications feature is used. The data prc ~amrr~ed inoo the remote control transmitter is stored in EI=PROM
memory 7Q in a preferred embodiment, which does not requixe power, so that dead 1Q batteries will nflt cause the memory to go blank, thus preventing the necessity of reprogramming. A second tnfctoprocessor ~Z is used in connection whh the operating keypad 4. An IR emitter 74 is coupled with the second rrticroprocessor 72 to aansrnit IR signals to remotely coriuolled devices. Each microprocessor has a clock fctnction, shown as ?6. rtlthough Figure 2 shows she remote control transmitter having separate 1s microprocessors for controlling separate functions, the remote control transmitter may include a single microprocessor 69 to perform all microprocessing functions, as shown m Figure 3.
Another alternate embodiment of the device 3ndudes a separate parental programrr~ing module. The parental programrr~ing module could be manufactured ?o separately from the rest of the remote conuol transmitter, so that a single module could be used to program multiple remote control transmiuers. In this alternate embodiment, the programming module may be hooked up with remote control devices only lon' enough to program them- In another embodiment, the programming module may snap fit interchangeably into remote conuol transmitters for programming purposes, and could then be removed without affecting the performance of the remote control rransmicter after programming.
The programming module contains an IR photomodule coupled to a microprocessor for receiving IR signals from an existing remote_ A c3oc~C is connected to the tnicrocontroller. A programming keypad is also coupled to the microprocessor, for inputting commands_ Baueries 75 are optional in this embodiment, as the .o programming module may be self powered, or may be powered through attachment ro a complemental remote control transmitter. An external connector for the serial communicatiflns interface is also included, which communicates with the microcontroller for receiving programming data horn a personal computer. EPROM
rnernory is another option, which will store Input data within the programming module ':5 if included therein. The programrnirtg module may operate a.n several different ways.
In one embodiment, the preagramming rtiodule tray be prograritmed fuse, and then -attached ro the remote control transmitter so that the data rnay be downloaded into the transrnicter. Programming may either occur manually through the keypad, or rhroe~gh the extzrrsal connector, through which information is downloaded from a personal ?a computer. Tne exremal connector, which is attached to the serial corrtr~unicatiotis port, may also be urilized in producQon to program the remote control aarismicter unit, to reduce the amount of programming necessary for the end use. In this embodiment, the FEPROM memory would be necessarily induded. Altemanvely, the programming module may be hooked up w a remote control tzansmitter tizst, and using the power arid memory from the remote control transmitter, may then be programmed in either of s she above-mentioned ways. In this embodiment, the batteries and EEPROM
memory are not necessarily included in the programming module. EPROM memory is necessary in alI user remote control uturs.
In another alternative embodiment, the remote conaol uansm3tter may be used to program ocher slave units that do not have a programming keypad. Figure 4 1 o tilustra~es a slave unit, which includes an operating keypad without the programming keypad. 'The slave unit receives programming through the external connector, attached to the serial communications interface. The source of the programming information may either be a personal computer, or another remote control transmitter having a programrniog keypad. For instance, if a user has a remote control transmitter with the 15 programming keypad, and the user also has a contplemental secondary remote control transmitter (slave unit), the first remote control trarisrnitter may be linked through the external ports to the slave unit for prograuuning purposes. The slave unit operates in operator mode in the same manner as the other embodiments of the remote conuo!
transmitter, having the same functions and capabilities, including the pre-programmed Zo macro functions. This arrangement allows a user to purchase a standard unit and a slave ur~r, as opposed w buying two standard units, which should reduce the cosy of the purchases, and should reduce the rime and effort necessary to program two separate remote control ~ansmitter gifts. In a preferred embodiment, the serial comrnunications port is located under the cover, and includes a cable connected directly to the microprocessor of the unit. The other end of the cal?Ie ~cludes an external connector that may be plugged into a master a~rismitter unit with programming capabilities, or into a personal computer.
in another alternate embodiment, shown in Figure 5, the reconfigurable remote control transmitter could be designed far elderly users, with some slight modifications of the embodiments described above. The scan buttons, in this alternate embodiment, o could be programmed to woFk In one of two ways. ft the elderly user only wished to view a small rEUmber of channels, then the scan button would simply scan the programuted favorite channels. However, because elderly people would not necessarily want to be lfrnited to scanning only the favorite channels, another function butwn; the all-button ~s may be added. which would toggle the scan function to determine and scan all available chanrteIs rather than just the preprogrammed favorite channels.
Another function baton, the score butoon 8o, could also be implemented on this alternate embodiment, allowing a user m add a particular channel to the favorite channels list. It is contemplated that the user co~.~lc~ add as many favorite channels as he wishes_ However in a preferred embodiment of this alternate errtbodiment, live additional favorite channels tn.ay be added to the original five favorite channels. If the five additional channels have already been added, and the user wishes to stare another, or a sixth, additional favorite channel, the software will delete the first additional channel that was programmed. The five original favorite channels may only be changed in program mode, as outlined above. A Scan Al! LED Sz is illuminated when the unit is in Scan AJl node. The only additional programming .necessary for this alremare ernbodimenr would be for the user to program the highest channel number that rhea system can support so that in the Scan AlI mode, the remote contml transmitter can recognize the upper limit of channels. The Scan All mode word allow a user to scan au channels available from the cable or satellite compaTSy.
vVhiie a preferred embodiment of the invention has been described using specific terms, such description is for illustrative purposes only, and it is to be understood that changes and variations may be made without departing from the spun ar scope of the followtng claims.
Specifically, the present invention includes a reconfllurable infrared (IR) remote control transmitter for children capable of learnfng remote control signals from a plurality of existing remote control devices, storing those signals and repeating the signals on demand, so that the remote conrrol transmitter may operate a plurality of components Including a 15 televisjon, a Video Cassette Recorder tvCR) and a cable converter box or satellite television corLVerter box. In a preferred embod'unent, the remote control aansmitter :nay operate two separate television systems, where the television systems may each ind ude a celev~siori, a VCR and a gable or satellite converter box.
The reconfigurable remote control is designed for children, having a simple ?0 operating keypad that is used by children and a parental programming keypad that is inaccessible to children. This arrangement allows a parent to designate up to five channels, one of which is designated as a prirtiary channel, that may ba accessed using the remote control, so chat a child using the device may only access channels that are approved and programmed by the parents. The remote control uansmitter also includes a microprocessor rhaL contains preprogrammed macro functions, which causes the transmitter to transmit a plurality of signals to several remotely controlled devices. The signals are aansmitted in a particular sequence with a timed delay therebetween, so than multiple signals axe u~nsrniued in sequence after a user inputs a single command into the remote control transmitter.
z. Discussion of the Prior Art I7arbee 5,422,783 O'Donnell, et at. 5,414,426 Enorrioto, et aI. ~, Iz8,667 Welles, II 4,623,887 The Darbee reference is iizected to a modular casing for a remote control with a keyboaxd having keys thereon for selecting a predetermined function or channel selected from a group of keyboards having different layouts or shapes of keys and adapted to pate with a circuit board having switches thereon corresponding to the keys. Tine disclosed device contains an upper housing member slidingly received in grooves of a panel secaon to form a unitary cover which is secured ~o the Iower housing irtember by screws or snap-fit interaction.
The O'Donnell patent discloses a remote control having a favorite key macro z0 command and a chained macro command. The remote control disclosed In this reference allows a user to ptogratn a macro command into memory for enabling a user to select at lease one favorite channel by entry of a series of keystroke commands on the keyboard.
The Enomow reference teaches a wireless remote controller for outputting in seriatim an operation mode signal for each of a plurality of receiving devices. The remote control d'i.sclosed therein allows a user to control a plurality of receiving devices without having to manually switch between the devices_ The wireless remote controller has a phuality of operation selecdort keys az~d is designed to operate in such manner that when the controller is directed toward one of the devices under control and any one of the operation mode selection keys is depressed, a corresponding operation mode signal is generated and transmitted to a mmotely Controlled device, which responds only w the associated one of the signal components of the operation mode signai_ The Welles. II, patent discloses a reconfigurable remote conuol transmitter la having the ability to learn, stored and repeat the remote control codes from any other infrared transmitter. The disdc ~ed device receives data from existing remote conrrollers, and then compresses and stores that data in nonvolatile tnertiory for lacer use.
None of the prior art, however, discloses a reconfigurable remote control 1~ transmitter designed far children, having a simple operating keypad for children and a limited access parental keypad for programming selected channels, and a preprogrammed macro function for transmitting a plurality of commands to a plurality of components in sequence by entering a single input command into the device_ Further, none of the prior art teaches a reconfigurable remote control having the 2p combination of features outlined above, which may also seamlessly operate two separate television systems, where each television system may include a television, a Accordingly, it is an lmportanr object of the present invention to provide a recorzfigurable remote control uansmlcter for children tFtat is capable of Ieamirlg remote conaol signals from a plurality of existing remote control devices, storing and repeating the signals on demand, so that the rertiote control transmitter may operate a plurality of components including a television unit, a VCR, and a cable or satellite television converter box.
Another important object of the present invention is to provide a reconfigurable remote control uansmitter for children, wherein the device includes a Iirnited access 1 D parental keypad allowing patents to ptogtatrt selected channels for children, so that a child using the remote may only access channels that are chosen and programmed by the parents.
Another important object of the invertxlon Is to provide a reconfigurabIe remote conuol transmitter for children, wherein the device includes at Least one S preprograrnrned macro function that allows a user to enter a single command, which causes the uansrnitter to transmit a plurality of signals in a timed sequence to operate a plurality of cornponenrs.
Yet another Important object of the present invention Is to provide a reconfigurabIe remote control transmitter for children, wherein the device may serve to '0 seamlessly operate taro separate television systems, where each television system may include a television unit, a VCR, and a cable or satellite television converter box.
Yet another important object of the present invention is to provide a reconfigurable remote conu~ol transmitter for children having a simple operating keypad with a relatively small number of buttons with varying shapes to facilitate ease of operation for young children.
Another important object of the present invetlsion is to provide a method for learning, storing arid reproducing remote corzuol signals from any of a number of different existing remote controls, including the step of providing a preprogrammed macro function that allows a single user input to actuate transmittal of a plurality of signals to a plurality of different components in sequence.
Another important object of she invention is to provide a reconfigurable remote control transmiuer that may prngram a separate slave unit through the use of an external connecior-Yet another important object of the invention is to provide a xeconfigurable remote control transmitter that may be used by elderly people, wherein the channel ~ S scan function may be toggled between scanning programmed favorite channels and scanning alI available channels.
These arid other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will became better understood with regard to the foalowittg description, appended claims, ar<d accompanying drawings.
BRIEF~ESCRj~j~l OF ~(~pRA~i~N S
The construction designed ro carry out the invention will be hereinafter descrit~ed, together with other features thereof.
The invention will be more readily understood from a reading of the following specification and by reference ~ ~e accompanying drawings forming a part thereof, wherein an example of the invention i5 shown and wherein:
Figure 1A is a perspective view of the reconfigurable remote control eansminer, showing the limited access parental keypad and the operating keypad; and Figure 1B is a bottom exploded view of the reconfgurable remote control 1 o transmitter, showing the cover separa:ed from the unit, and showing the serial communications port together with the bauery cavity, and further showing the finder module;
Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the components of the reconfigurable remote control transmitter, including two separate microprocessors;
15 Figure 3 is a block diagram of an ahernate embodiment of the rernoce control ~rartsrnitter, showing the components of the reconfigurable remote conuol transmitter, including a single microprocessor;
Figure ~A is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the remote conaol transmitter, wherein the remote control transmjtter is a slave unit capable of being 20 programmed through the external connector;
Figure 4B is a bottom exploded view of the aItemate embodiment of the remote conuol shown in Figure 4A, showing the cover separated from the unit, and showing she serial co~nmunicanons pork having an external connector and cord attached thereto, and also showing the ~ artery cavity, Figv.ue 5 is another alternative embodiment of the remote control transmitter, for use with elderly people_ Figurn I shows the reconfig~uable infrared rerrwte wntrol aansmicter 2, having a children's operating keypad 4 and a parental prop atnming keypad 6. Access to the parental programming keypad is limited by a cover 8. which allows access far parents to program the remote control transmitter, while preventing children from having access thereto. The cover may be secured in a closed position by screws or a tight snap fit, or in any other suitable manner which would allow access for adults while preventing children from having easy access.
In a preferred ernbodintent, the operating keypad includes only twelve buttons, to facilitate ease of use by children. The remote control transmitter may be used to operate either one or two teIevislori systems, where each television system may include a television runt, a vCR, and a set-top device. A set-top device may include a cable converter box or a satellite television converter box.
The remote control transrnixter has two modes of operation. The normal mode t S of operation is the user mode, where the remote control is used to operate a television system. The program mode is used by parents to program 'the remote conuol transmitter. T'he program mode shows the parents to program the remote control transmitter to operate one or two television systems by receiving signal commands from an existing remote conuol, staring the signals, assigning the signals to a corresponding ?o button on the operating keypad, arid emulating the signals on command.
Parents may also designate which channels rnay be accessed by the remote control transmitter, limiting channel access ro those channels chosen and programmed by the parents.
One channel is.designated as a primary or favorite channel. As a default, any user button that has not been defined in programrning mode should not disrupt other functions currently in use, because unptogtammed buttons will have no effect when pressed.
In a preferred embodiment, the parental programming keypad 6 includes fourteen buttons and a Tv11TV2 button IO_ The button allows the user to wggle between television system one and television system cyvo for programming purposes.
The remote control transmitter may be programmed to operate in different ways, depending upon the setup o~ the television system. Then a TV and a set-top device are both plugged into separate outlets, the power button 1.2 is programmed to transmit a power-on or power-ofF command seduence to both the TV and the sec top device.
When a TV is plugged into the back of a set-top box, the power button is programmed ca only turn on the set-tap box. which automatically powers on the T'L!.
Because most z5 users Plug the TV power cord into the back of the set top box, the default setting for the power button is to sirnpIy power on the set top box. As part of the power-on sequence of commands, afrer the power-on command is transmitted, the transmitter unit will then transmit a primary channel command, which automatically changes the television channel to the primary channel that has been programmed Into the unit by the parents.
IF two television systems are programmed into the remote control transmitter, the power button causes the unit to transmit the applicable power-on sequence for television system one (TV~) and then after a preset dme delay, preferably about one second, if the button is still pressed, the unit will transmit the applicable power-on sequence for television system two (TV?).
The parental programming keypad includes six LED displays. LEI?~1 14 is the Start LI=D located adjacent the Start buttor~~. LFD~2 15, is the Leam LED
located adjacent the Leam button 41. LFD~3 1b is the Done LED, located adjacent to the Done button. LED~4 2lis used to indicate that a TV1 system component is being defined or delered_ LF~.7#~ z3 is used to indicate that a TV2 system co~lponenr is being defined or deleted. The User LED 25 is located in the nose cone of the remote 1 o control transmitter, indicating that any user button has been pressed. The Llsez LED
25 is also used during program mode to indicate that a working link has been established beTVUeen the remote devices during the learning sequerice_ First, when a user enters the program made by pressing the Start button Z0, LED#1 will be tamed on. Prior to any programming functions being enabled, the remote control transmitter must be set to program enable mode in this manner.
If no other key is pressed within ten seconds after the remote control transmitter has entered programming mode, tyre LED displays will mm off signifying that the device has exited program mode_ Next. the user presses the appropriate function key, far example T'v ?3, vCR 34, STB 26 or F1 28, si~ifying that the selected function or device has been selected for programming. If no other key is pressed wirhln ten seconds after the device has entered this level within the program mode, LED~1 will rum off signifying that the device his exited the progaram mode_ Next, the user presses either the Leam button ~ 1 or Delete button ~2, depending upon which function they wish to perform. In this example, it is assumed that the user wants to define one of the TV system components and therefore would press the Leam button ~ 1. After the Learn button 41 has been pressed, LSD#2 will turn on to indicate that the unit is in learning mode. 'the user would then point his existing remote at the remote control device and press the buttons on his existing remote as if he were controlling the television system component he is currently trying to define.
When the remote control transmitter is receiving infrared (IR) pulses from another IR remote, the Llser LED 25 will blink, acknowledging receipt of IR
pulses front the other remote, and signifying that a solid link between the two devices has been established. LFD~r3 will begin to flash, when the pulse sequence from another remote for program entry has been received correctly. At this point, the rerttote conisol device is ready to store the resulting memory into data for the chosen function. The user presses the Done button and the remote control unit will flash LED#1, LED#z and LED~3 three times and then all LEDs will turn off signifying that the program sec(uence was either stored into memory or cleared if using the delete function from memory. If the device does trot recogni2e the pulse sequence sent afrer ten seconds of aaempting to receive IR pulses, then LED~1 and LEp~z will turn off, signi'rying that the device has ?4 exited program mode. The device can also exit program mode a: any time if the software cannot recognize the IR pulses being sent from the existing IR remote device.
irk order to support ail the program functions far two television systems, the parental progtatnming keypad will include a TVl/t~l~ button 1D to toggle between television system one and television system two. After the user presses the Start button, either LED~4 21 of LPD#5 23 will turn on signifying either television system one or television system two is enabled for paogramming resqectively. The remote control unit will default to television system one. However, if a user changed the position vo television system nwo in a prior sequence, the unit will stay in its Iast selected state. After the user presses the Start button, he can push xhe TVi/f~12 system button if necessary to select the appropriate system he for which he wishes to define a device.
In order to program the remote control traazsmister, the user will be required to have all the applicable remote devices they currently use to control devices connected to television system one and/or television system two.
Television Device Programming ?'o prog;arn for a television (T1~, the user presses the start button to enter program mode. LED#1 will turn on solid to confirm that Program enable is on.
The user may then select which television system he wishes to program for by pressing the TV1lhl? system button. The user then presses the TV button on the device to confirm to the retxtote control device that the following progzam sequence is for defining a z0 television set. Next, the user presses the Learn burrnn 41 until LFD~2 rums an solid to confute that the unit is ready for IR decoding and learning. Then, the user takes his i3 existing television remote, points it directly at the remote control device and presses the power button. It should be noted chat if the uses existing remote is a replacement universal remote, the user must press the TV button first on the existing remote, followed by the power button_ At this point, if a solid link is established between the two remotes, where the IR path of both units are aligned properly, then the User LED
25 will blink to aclaiowledge receipt of data pulses. If a Ilnk has not been properly established, the remote control transmitter software will cause the unit to wait for ten seconds before aborting the program Sequence, which will cause LED# 1 and LED~2 to go oul. After the pulse sequence has been sent to the existing remote and received successfully by the remote control transmitter, then the gone LED wlli flash, indicating that the user should press the Done button, thereby completing the programming sequence. After the user presses the Dons button, to confurn that the entire program sequence was successful, hED#1, LIrD# and LED~3 will rum on and off in unison three times, then all stun off. This program sequence can be reset at any time prior to iS pressing the Done button by pressing the Start button 2o to enter a new program setluence_ If the user wishes to remove the 1'V device, the user presses the Start button anal LED#i turns on solid, to enter program mode. 1'he user may then select which television system he wishes to pmgram for by pressing the TVl/I'~l2 system button.
?o The user then presses the TV button, followed by the Delete button 42 to delete the TV
device code from memory. LED#3 will flash immediately after pressing the delete button, indicating chat the user should press the Done button to complete the deletion sequence. Note that if a user attempts to delete a device that has not been prograrnrjted, the Start LED (LED##1) will go out, indicating that there is nothing to delete, because nothing had been programmed with respect to the deleted funcrion.
Video Cassette Recorder (VCR) Device Programming ' To program for a Video Cassette Recorder ('VCR), the user presses the Start button to to enter program mode. The user may them select which television system he wishes w program for by pressing the TVl/i V2 system button. The user then presses the VCR button 24 on the remote control transmitter, to confirm to the remote control 1o device that the following program sequence is for defining a video cassette recorder. In this sequence, a5 with any other programming sequence described herein, the LED
displays behave as outlined heretofore_ Next, the user presses the Learn button 4I
urtrll LED ~z rums on solid to indicate that the tutit is in the teaming mode.
Then, the user lakes his existing VCR remote control, points is directly at the remote control 15 device and presses the power button. It should be noted that if the user's existing remote is a replacement universal remote, the user must press the VCR button first on the e~dsting remote, followed by the power button. When LED ##3 begins to flash, the user then presses the Done button ~0 to complete the program sequence. The user rnay also remove the VCR device codes from memory by pressing the Start button, z0 followed by pressing the VCR button and then pressing the Delete button.
Cable TV Set-Top Box or Satellite 1~T Device hrogxamming is To program for ezrher a Cable TV Set sop box or Sateuite TV Set-top box, the user presses the Start button 20 to enter program mode. The user may then select which television system he wishes to program for by pressing the TVIfIV2 system bunon. The user then presses the STB button 26 to confirm to the remote contzol device that the following program sequence Is for defining a SeL Top box. The user then presses the Learn button ~ I until LED#2 rums on solid to indicate that the unit is in learning mode. Near, the user takes his existing Set Top box remote canQOl, points it directly at the remote control device and presses the power button. It should be noted that if the user's existing remote is a replacement universal remote, the user muse !0 press either the Cable button or Satellite button first on the existing remote, followed by the power button. When the LIrD #3 begfns ~o flash, the user then presses the Done button 40 to complete the program setluence. The STB codes may be deleted in the same fashion as described before_ Favorite Channels Setup ~ 5 This programming feature allows a parent to designate up to five channels that the remote control transmitter will access irt user made for the child by simply pressing the scan button. The first favorite channel, designated as the primary favorite channel, will also be available by its own button (favorite channel button 4~) as well as being the default home channel whenever the remote control Cransminer is first powered on.
'o To program for the primary favorite channel, the user presses the Start button ?0 co enter program mode. In this example, the user presses the F 1 button 28 on the device to confirm to the remote control device that the following program sequence is for defining a favorite channel, in this case, the ftrst primary favorite c'bannel. Next, the user presses the Learn button 41 until LED~2 is illuminated, indicating chat the unit is in learning mode. Next, the user takes his existing remote that is used to change channels, points it directly at the remote control device, arid presses the power button followed by the desired channel nu,mbet. It should, be rioted that if the useYs existing remote is a replacement universal remote, the user must press either the Cable button.
Satellite button, or TV button. depending ozt which device is used to change channels, followed by the power button, and then followed by the desired channel number.
1 D When LED#3 begins to flash, the user then presses the Done button 4D on the remote conuol transmitter to complete the program sequence. 'Che primary favorite channel will be available both by its own button arid will be included along with the other favorite channels in user mode via the SCAN button 46, 47. The other channels may be programmed info the remote control transmitter by substituting any of the 1 ~ buttons (reference numbers 3a, 3z, 34, and 36 respectively) in place of the F I button 25 in the above programming sequence, and the favorite channels may also be deleted h .~ following the appropriate delete programming seduence oudined above.
Movie Button Channel Setting The CH4 button 48 located ort the pat~ntal keypad allows the user to sec ?a channel 4 as the tuner out position of the VCR device, if a VCR is used within the television system. The default setting of the movie button is channel 3. This function is only used if the VCR device uses channel 4 for the VCR output signal.
To program the movie channel tuner output for channel 4, the user presses the Srarc bcttton zCt ro enter program mode. LED~i will tum on solid to confum that Program enable is on. The user may then select which television system he wishes to program for by pressing rhe'I'V1ITV2 system button. The user then presses the CHI
button 48 on the device to confirm to the remote contxal device that the following program sequence is for defining the movie channel tuner output to channel 4.
LED#3 will begin to flash indicating that the user should press the Done button ~D
to complete the programming sequence. After the user presses the Dane button, to confirm that the ,0 entice program seduenee was successful, LED#1, LED#Z and LED#3 will turn on and oif iti unison three threes, then a1J turn off. This program sequence can be reset at any rime prior to pressing the Done button by pressing the Scant button to enter a neon program sequence.
If the user wishes flo remove the movie channel tuner output from channel ~
back to the defauh channel 3, the user presses the Start button until LFD#1 turns on solid, to enter program made. The user may then select which television system he wishes to program for by pressing the TVin'V2 system button. The user then presses the CHI button, followed by the Delete button to delete the CHI setting froth memory.
LEp#3 W Il flash immediately after pressing the delete button, Indicating that the user 0 should press the Dor<e button to complete the deletion sequence. Note that if a user attempts to delete a device that has not been programmed, the 5rarr LED
(LED~1) uriIl go out, indicating that there is nothing to delete, because nothing had been programmed with respect to the deleted function.
Pa~wer TV (P'I~Tj Setting The PTV button ?~ located on the parental keypad allows the user to set whether the remote conuoI device should uansmit a power on or power off command to the TV when the user presses the power button. This is used when the TV
system has a Set Top box and the TV set is not plugged into the Set-Top box allowing for automatic powering fmm the Set-Tog box. The remote control devices default state is to o assume that when a Set-Top box is used, the TV is plugged into it to support automatic powering.
T4 program the Power TV funetLon, the user presses the start button to enter program mode. LFD~1 will tum on solid to confitai that Progxarn enable is on.
The user may then select which TV system he wishes to program for both pressing the TV1~VZ system button. The user then presses the PTV buEton on the device to confirm to the reruoce control device that the following program sequence is far defining tire power TV function_ LED~3 will begin to flash indicating that the user should press the Dune button, thereby cotztplzting the programming sequence. After the user presses the DOivIE button, to confirm that the entire program sequence was successful, o ~.Epm, LED~Z, and LEDrr3 will turn on and off in unison three times, then all turn off.
This program sequence can be reset at any rime prior to pressing the DONE
burror< by pressing the Start button 20 to enter a new program sequence.
If the user wishes to rerttove the power TV function back to the default state, the user presses the Start button 20 until Ll=D# 1 curr~s on solid, to enter program mode.
The user rrtay Then select which TV system he wishes to program for both pressing the TV1lI'V2 system button. The user then presses the PTV button, followed by the Delese burtor~ 4z to delete the PTV setting from memory. LED#3 will flash immediately alter pressing the delete button, indicating that the user should press the Done button zo comply the deletion sequence_ Note that if a user attempts to delete a device that has not been programtrted, the Start LED (LED#1) will go out, ittd(catirig that there is nothing to delete, because nathirrg had been programmed with respect to the deleted function.
A user may determine if a given device of function has already been programmed by performing the following steps. The user presses the Start button until LED# 1 toms on solid Next, the user presses the appropriate function button that he wishes to obtain status for (i.e. TV, VCR, STB, and the like). Then the user presses the Delete button. If the Done LED (LED#3) begins to flash, then there is currently a device prograrrzrned for that function. The user then has the optjon of deleting that setting or pressing the Start butrnn to reset the unit. if the Start LED
(LED~1) goes out, then the uslir resets itself automatically indicating to the user that no device was prograrttmed for that function.
To facilitate ease of use by children, the operating keypad has only twelve buttons in a preferred embodiment. The scan buttozts 46, 4~ cause the remote control transmitter co sequentially transrttit channel changing commands in round robin fashion, so that the child may flip through only those channels programmed by the parent- If only a TV is defined for either television system one (TV 1 ) or television system two (?V2) or both, the scan buttons ~6, 47 will cause the unit to transmit the channel sequence by using the TV device code. If a TV anal Set top box is defined, the scan button will cause the unit to transmit the channel sequence by using the STB
device code.
T'fte volume buttons 50, 51 will transmit the volume commands using the TV
l0 device code defined in programming rr~ode_ The mute button Sz will transmit the mute cottimand using the TV device code defined in programming mode. When a VCR is defined for TV1 of TVz, the fuzzy button 54 will cause the unit to uanstnit the VCR
device code to issue a VCR/TV tune? toggle transmit colnmatui. When the play button 56 is pressed, the unit will first transmit either a channel 3 or channel ~
command, depending on whether the CH4 button 48 has been enabled in program mode, followed by the VCR Play signal. The unit will transmit a channel 3 signal by default.
The stop button 58, rewind button 60, and fast forward button 6z will transmit the appropriate command signals to the VCR.
An opeional feature of the remote conuol transrstitter is a serial communications ?a interface 7 for autoFnated progra,tnming from a personal computer. This Interface will be used whenever a major C~EM has a requirement to pre-set the remote control 3~r1 cransm~tteT prior to shipment for ease of setup by the user. This arrangement allows a manufacturer to pre-program the transmitter w operate such components as a specific known satellite sec-top convener box and defined family channel groups. For example, Satellire television companies have the same channel lineups nationwide as well as set-s top box equipment allowing pre-progt-ammmg through this external interface to support about 909 of the transmitters features. allowing for further ease of programming setup >?y the end user- This arrangement would only require the user to define the TV's, VCRs, and perhaps modify the favorite channel settings. In a preferred embodiment, the serial communicatiflns interface is positioned under the cover, so that the cover 1 o must be removed to utilise thr serial communications interface.
Altematlvely, the user tray purchase the unprogrammed remote control transmitter, and may program the transmitter usjng a home personal computer, instead of using the pamntal programming keypad to manually progratd the nartsmiuer.
Another optional feature is a find feature based on a sound recognition circuit l 5 35, which will allow the user to have the remote control transmitter recognize a particular type of sound, such as the clapping of hands or whistling or any other suitable sound, and set off art alert tone. The purpose of his feature is to help find the temate control transmfuer when it gets lo$r. The sound recognition circuit may be plugged into the serial cornntunications port, under the cover of the unit for receiving 2o power- When the serial communications port is deeded for programming purposes, the sound recogniti4n circuit may be unplugged, allowing access for an external connector to an external data source_ Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the components of the remote control transmitter. An IR photorrtodule 66 is used to receive infrared signals from exiszir: rernotes. A fixst microprocessor 68 Ls coupled with the photomodule 66, a t is also used to control arid receive information from the parental programming keyp. 6. An external connector 6~ is used to receive information downloaded from s omputer, when the optional Serial Communications feature is used. The data prc ~amrr~ed inoo the remote control transmitter is stored in EI=PROM
memory 7Q in a preferred embodiment, which does not requixe power, so that dead 1Q batteries will nflt cause the memory to go blank, thus preventing the necessity of reprogramming. A second tnfctoprocessor ~Z is used in connection whh the operating keypad 4. An IR emitter 74 is coupled with the second rrticroprocessor 72 to aansrnit IR signals to remotely coriuolled devices. Each microprocessor has a clock fctnction, shown as ?6. rtlthough Figure 2 shows she remote control transmitter having separate 1s microprocessors for controlling separate functions, the remote control transmitter may include a single microprocessor 69 to perform all microprocessing functions, as shown m Figure 3.
Another alternate embodiment of the device 3ndudes a separate parental programrr~ing module. The parental programrr~ing module could be manufactured ?o separately from the rest of the remote conuol transmitter, so that a single module could be used to program multiple remote control transmiuers. In this alternate embodiment, the programming module may be hooked up with remote control devices only lon' enough to program them- In another embodiment, the programming module may snap fit interchangeably into remote conuol transmitters for programming purposes, and could then be removed without affecting the performance of the remote control rransmicter after programming.
The programming module contains an IR photomodule coupled to a microprocessor for receiving IR signals from an existing remote_ A c3oc~C is connected to the tnicrocontroller. A programming keypad is also coupled to the microprocessor, for inputting commands_ Baueries 75 are optional in this embodiment, as the .o programming module may be self powered, or may be powered through attachment ro a complemental remote control transmitter. An external connector for the serial communicatiflns interface is also included, which communicates with the microcontroller for receiving programming data horn a personal computer. EPROM
rnernory is another option, which will store Input data within the programming module ':5 if included therein. The programrnirtg module may operate a.n several different ways.
In one embodiment, the preagramming rtiodule tray be prograritmed fuse, and then -attached ro the remote control transmitter so that the data rnay be downloaded into the transrnicter. Programming may either occur manually through the keypad, or rhroe~gh the extzrrsal connector, through which information is downloaded from a personal ?a computer. Tne exremal connector, which is attached to the serial corrtr~unicatiotis port, may also be urilized in producQon to program the remote control aarismicter unit, to reduce the amount of programming necessary for the end use. In this embodiment, the FEPROM memory would be necessarily induded. Altemanvely, the programming module may be hooked up w a remote control tzansmitter tizst, and using the power arid memory from the remote control transmitter, may then be programmed in either of s she above-mentioned ways. In this embodiment, the batteries and EEPROM
memory are not necessarily included in the programming module. EPROM memory is necessary in alI user remote control uturs.
In another alternative embodiment, the remote conaol uansm3tter may be used to program ocher slave units that do not have a programming keypad. Figure 4 1 o tilustra~es a slave unit, which includes an operating keypad without the programming keypad. 'The slave unit receives programming through the external connector, attached to the serial communications interface. The source of the programming information may either be a personal computer, or another remote control transmitter having a programrniog keypad. For instance, if a user has a remote control transmitter with the 15 programming keypad, and the user also has a contplemental secondary remote control transmitter (slave unit), the first remote control trarisrnitter may be linked through the external ports to the slave unit for prograuuning purposes. The slave unit operates in operator mode in the same manner as the other embodiments of the remote conuo!
transmitter, having the same functions and capabilities, including the pre-programmed Zo macro functions. This arrangement allows a user to purchase a standard unit and a slave ur~r, as opposed w buying two standard units, which should reduce the cosy of the purchases, and should reduce the rime and effort necessary to program two separate remote control ~ansmitter gifts. In a preferred embodiment, the serial comrnunications port is located under the cover, and includes a cable connected directly to the microprocessor of the unit. The other end of the cal?Ie ~cludes an external connector that may be plugged into a master a~rismitter unit with programming capabilities, or into a personal computer.
in another alternate embodiment, shown in Figure 5, the reconfigurable remote control transmitter could be designed far elderly users, with some slight modifications of the embodiments described above. The scan buttons, in this alternate embodiment, o could be programmed to woFk In one of two ways. ft the elderly user only wished to view a small rEUmber of channels, then the scan button would simply scan the programuted favorite channels. However, because elderly people would not necessarily want to be lfrnited to scanning only the favorite channels, another function butwn; the all-button ~s may be added. which would toggle the scan function to determine and scan all available chanrteIs rather than just the preprogrammed favorite channels.
Another function baton, the score butoon 8o, could also be implemented on this alternate embodiment, allowing a user m add a particular channel to the favorite channels list. It is contemplated that the user co~.~lc~ add as many favorite channels as he wishes_ However in a preferred embodiment of this alternate errtbodiment, live additional favorite channels tn.ay be added to the original five favorite channels. If the five additional channels have already been added, and the user wishes to stare another, or a sixth, additional favorite channel, the software will delete the first additional channel that was programmed. The five original favorite channels may only be changed in program mode, as outlined above. A Scan Al! LED Sz is illuminated when the unit is in Scan AJl node. The only additional programming .necessary for this alremare ernbodimenr would be for the user to program the highest channel number that rhea system can support so that in the Scan AlI mode, the remote contml transmitter can recognize the upper limit of channels. The Scan All mode word allow a user to scan au channels available from the cable or satellite compaTSy.
vVhiie a preferred embodiment of the invention has been described using specific terms, such description is for illustrative purposes only, and it is to be understood that changes and variations may be made without departing from the spun ar scope of the followtng claims.
Claims (30)
1. A reconfigurable remote control transmitter for children, said transmitter capable of learning remote control signals from a plurality of existing remote control devices, storing said signals and repeating said signals on demand, so that said remote control transmitter may operate a plurality of components including a television, a VCR and a cable converter box or satellite television converter box, said remote control transmitter comprising:
receiver means for receiving said signals transmitted from an existing remote control transmitter to be emulated during a programming mode;
microprocessor means connected to said receiver means for receiving output of said receiver means;
memory means coupled to said microprocessor means for storing said signals;
transmitter means controlled by said microprocessor means for emulating said signals to control a selected remotely controlled device, said microprocessor means being further programmed to recall from said memory means a desired signal and to cause said transmitter means to transmit said desired signal;
said microprocessor means being further preprogrammed with at least one macro function which causes said remote control transmitter to transmit a plurality of signals to a corresponding number of remotely controlled devices, said signals being transmitted in a particular sequence and having a timed delay therebetween, so that multiple signals are transmitted in sequence after a user inputs a single command into said remote control transmitter.
receiver means for receiving said signals transmitted from an existing remote control transmitter to be emulated during a programming mode;
microprocessor means connected to said receiver means for receiving output of said receiver means;
memory means coupled to said microprocessor means for storing said signals;
transmitter means controlled by said microprocessor means for emulating said signals to control a selected remotely controlled device, said microprocessor means being further programmed to recall from said memory means a desired signal and to cause said transmitter means to transmit said desired signal;
said microprocessor means being further preprogrammed with at least one macro function which causes said remote control transmitter to transmit a plurality of signals to a corresponding number of remotely controlled devices, said signals being transmitted in a particular sequence and having a timed delay therebetween, so that multiple signals are transmitted in sequence after a user inputs a single command into said remote control transmitter.
2. The reconfigurable remote control transmitter as set forth in claim 1, further including an operating keypad for inputting commands into said remote control transmitter for actuating transmission of said remote control signals.
3. The reconfigurable remote control transmitter as set forth in claim 1, further including a parental keypad for programming said remote control transmitter, wherein said parental keypad is accessible only to an adult user, and which is not accessible to children.
4. The reconfigurable remote control transmitter as set forth in claim 1, wherein said microprocessor means is also capable of learning and storing signals corresponding to a plurality of television channels, one channel of which is designated to be a primary channel, so that said remote control transmitter may be programmed to only access channels that an adult chooses for a child user.
5. The reconfigurable remote control transmitter as set forth in claim 4, wherein said remote control transminer includes a scan button than actuates said transmitter to transmit a scan command to scan said programmed television channels.
6. The reconfigurable remote control transmitter as set forth in claim 4, wherein one of said macro functions is programmed to transmit a signal to turn on a television set, then to transmit a second signal causing the television channel to change to said primary channel.
7. The reconfigurable remote control transmitter as set forth in claim 1, wherein one of said macro functions is programmed to transmit a signal to power on a VCR, then to transmit a signal to set a television channel to work in combination with said VCR, and then to transmit a signal to cause said VCR to began playing a video tape, so that a user may configure said television system to play said video tape by inputting a single command into said remote control transmitter.
8. The reconfigurable remote control transmitter as set forth in claim 1, wherein at least two separate television systems may be operated remotely using said remote control transmitter, so that each television system, which may contain a television, a VCR, and a cable converter box or satellite television converter box, may be operated without a user having to manually switch said remote control transmitter to operate a particular television system.
9. The reconfigurable remote control transmitter as set forth in claim 1, further including a serial communications interface coupled wirh said microprocessor means for receiving programming data directly from an external data source.
10. The reconfigurable remote control transmitter as set forth in claim 9, wherein said external data source is a computer.
11. The reconfigurable remote control transmitter as set forth in claim 9, wherein said external data source is a separate reconfigurable remote control transmitter.
12. The reconfigurable remote control transmitter as set forth in claim 1, further including a locator means that allows a user to find said remote control transmitter by sounding an audible signal in response to a defined auditory sound.
13. A method of learning, storing and reproducing remote control signals from any of a number of different existing remote controls comprising the steps of:
receiving a transmission from a remote control transmitter;
storing said signals;
assigning each of said signals to correspond with a specific input command;
accessing said signal on command and transmitting said signal to a remotely controlled device; and providing a preprogrammed macro function so that a plurality of signals may be transmitted in sequence to control a plurality of remotely controlled devices by entering a single input command.
receiving a transmission from a remote control transmitter;
storing said signals;
assigning each of said signals to correspond with a specific input command;
accessing said signal on command and transmitting said signal to a remotely controlled device; and providing a preprogrammed macro function so that a plurality of signals may be transmitted in sequence to control a plurality of remotely controlled devices by entering a single input command.
14. The method set forth in claim 13, wherein said step of providing a preprogrammed macro function includes the steps of transmitting said signals to perform the following functions in sequence:
switching on power to a VCR;
setting a television channel to operate in conjunction with said VCR; and playing a video tape.
switching on power to a VCR;
setting a television channel to operate in conjunction with said VCR; and playing a video tape.
15. The method set forth in claim 13, wherein said step of providing a preprogrammed macro function includes the steps of transmitting said signals to perform the following functions in sequence:
switching on power to a television unit;
switching on power to a cable converter box or satellite television converter box;
switching on power to a VCR; and setting a television channel to a preprogrammed primary channel.
switching on power to a television unit;
switching on power to a cable converter box or satellite television converter box;
switching on power to a VCR; and setting a television channel to a preprogrammed primary channel.
16. The method set forth its claim 13, wherein said step of providing a preprogrammed macro function includes the steps of transmitting said signals to perform the following functions in sequence:
switching on power to a fast television unit; and switching on power to a second television unit.
switching on power to a fast television unit; and switching on power to a second television unit.
17. A programming module for a reconfigurable remote control transmitter said programming module comprising;
a parental programming keypad for entering programming commands;
receiver means for receiving signals transmitted from an existing remote control transmitter;
microprocessing means coupled with said keypad for processing data received from said receiver means and said keypad:
output means for sending processed data to a complemental remote control transmitter.
a parental programming keypad for entering programming commands;
receiver means for receiving signals transmitted from an existing remote control transmitter;
microprocessing means coupled with said keypad for processing data received from said receiver means and said keypad:
output means for sending processed data to a complemental remote control transmitter.
18. The programming module set forth in claim 17, further including a serial communications interface coupled with said microprocessor means for receiving programming data directly from an external data source.
19. A reconfigurable remote control transmitter capable of learning remote control signals from a plurality of existing remote control devices, storing said signals and repeating said signals on demand, so that said remote control transmitter may operate a plurality of components including a television, a VCR and a cable converter box or satellite television converter box, said remote control transmitter comprising:
receiver means for receiving said signals transmitted from an existing remote control transmitter to be emulated during a programming mode;
microprocessor means connected to receive output of said receiver means;
memory means coupled to said microprocessor means for storing said signals;
transmitter means controlled by said microprocessor means for emulating said signals to control a selected remotely controlled device, said microprocessor means being further programmed to recall from said memory means a desired signal and to cause said transmitter means to transmit said signal;
an operating keypad having buttons to input commands to be transmitted by said transmitter;
a programming keypad having buttons for inputting programming commands into said remote control transmitter;
said operating keypad including a channel scan button feature capable of switching channels programmed from a favorite channel list in round robin fashion;
said operating keypad also including a toggle switch, allowing a user to choose between scanning only programmed favorite channels or scanning all available channels.
receiver means for receiving said signals transmitted from an existing remote control transmitter to be emulated during a programming mode;
microprocessor means connected to receive output of said receiver means;
memory means coupled to said microprocessor means for storing said signals;
transmitter means controlled by said microprocessor means for emulating said signals to control a selected remotely controlled device, said microprocessor means being further programmed to recall from said memory means a desired signal and to cause said transmitter means to transmit said signal;
an operating keypad having buttons to input commands to be transmitted by said transmitter;
a programming keypad having buttons for inputting programming commands into said remote control transmitter;
said operating keypad including a channel scan button feature capable of switching channels programmed from a favorite channel list in round robin fashion;
said operating keypad also including a toggle switch, allowing a user to choose between scanning only programmed favorite channels or scanning all available channels.
20. The remote control transmitter set forth in claim 19, wherein said operating keypad also includes a store button feature, which allows a user to program a plurality of additional favorite channels to said favorite channels list.
21. A reconfigurable, remote control transmitter for limited operation of an electrical unit, such as a television set, said transmitter comprising:
an operator keypad; and a programmer keypad, constructed and arranged to be separate from said operator keypad and generally inaccessible to an intended user of said operator keypad.
an operator keypad; and a programmer keypad, constructed and arranged to be separate from said operator keypad and generally inaccessible to an intended user of said operator keypad.
22. A reconfigurable, remote control transmitter according to claim 21 in which, both said operator keypad and said programmer keypad are mounted in a common housing; and said housing also contains all electronic means required to use said transmitter.
23. A reconfigurable, remote control transmitter according to claim 22 in which, said programmer keypad and said electronic means have the combined function of programming said transmitter to generate a plurality of signal outputs;
and said operator keypad with said electronic means have the combined function of transmitting certain of said signal outputs to the electrical unit for its limited operation.
and said operator keypad with said electronic means have the combined function of transmitting certain of said signal outputs to the electrical unit for its limited operation.
24. A reconfigurable, remote control transmitter according to claim 23 in which, said programmer keypad is useable to reconfigure at least one of said signal outputs;
a specific use of said operator keypad, prior to a reconfiguration, will cause a certain signal output: and after a reconfiguration by said programmer keypad, the same specific use of said operator keypad will cause a different signal output.
a specific use of said operator keypad, prior to a reconfiguration, will cause a certain signal output: and after a reconfiguration by said programmer keypad, the same specific use of said operator keypad will cause a different signal output.
25. A reconfigurable, remote control transmitter according to claim 21 in which, the electrical unit is a televisions set; and the programmer keypad enables the operator keypad to select a very limited number of viewing channels.
26. A reconfigurable, remote control transmitter according to claim 25 in which, said operator keypad has a very few channel selection keys, which are distinctive from one another in at least one of shape and color.
27. A reconfigurable, remote control transmitter according to claim 21 in which, said operator keypad has few selection keys; and said selection keys are distinctive from each other by at least one of shape and color.
28. A reconfigurable, remote control transmitter according to claim 27 in which, said selection keys are distinctive by both shape and color.
29. A reconfigurable, remote control transmitter according to claim 21 in which, said operator keypad includes a power-on control to initiate operation of the electrical unit; and in the absence of other use of said operator keypad, there is transmitted a default signal which places the electrical unit in a specific operating mode.
30. A reconfigurable, remote control transmitter according to claim 29 in which, the electrical unit is a television set; and said default signal selects a favorite channel as said specific operating mode.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2329693 CA2329693A1 (en) | 2000-12-28 | 2000-12-28 | Reconfigurable remote control unit with preprogrammed macro functions and method |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2329693 CA2329693A1 (en) | 2000-12-28 | 2000-12-28 | Reconfigurable remote control unit with preprogrammed macro functions and method |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2329693A1 true CA2329693A1 (en) | 2002-06-28 |
Family
ID=4168004
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2329693 Abandoned CA2329693A1 (en) | 2000-12-28 | 2000-12-28 | Reconfigurable remote control unit with preprogrammed macro functions and method |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2329693A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US7705746B2 (en) | 2004-02-02 | 2010-04-27 | Scope Seven Inc. | Simplified control system for electronic media |
| EP2571279A3 (en) * | 2011-09-15 | 2013-04-10 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Remote controller apparatus, broadcast receiving apparatus and method for controlling the same |
-
2000
- 2000-12-28 CA CA 2329693 patent/CA2329693A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US7705746B2 (en) | 2004-02-02 | 2010-04-27 | Scope Seven Inc. | Simplified control system for electronic media |
| EP2571279A3 (en) * | 2011-09-15 | 2013-04-10 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Remote controller apparatus, broadcast receiving apparatus and method for controlling the same |
| US9124917B2 (en) | 2011-09-15 | 2015-09-01 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Remote controller apparatus, broadcast receiving apparatus and method for controlling the same |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US9338497B2 (en) | System and method for reconfiguration of an entertainment system controlling device | |
| US8653950B2 (en) | State-based remote control system | |
| US7116264B2 (en) | Programmable universal remote control unit | |
| US7324168B2 (en) | Universal remote control unit | |
| EP1873734A2 (en) | Programmable remote control and methods of using same | |
| US20230360518A1 (en) | System and method for rapid configuration of a universal controlling device | |
| JP2004173241A (en) | Mobile telephone with remote-controlling capability, its remote-controlling method and system therefor | |
| KR20050084168A (en) | Programmable universal remote control unit and method of programming same | |
| US20210134144A1 (en) | System and method for simplified activity based setup of a controlling device | |
| EP3386192A1 (en) | System and method for rapid configuration of a universal controlling device | |
| GB2370399A (en) | Remotely-controllable media device | |
| JP2001245371A (en) | Remote control | |
| US20080231492A1 (en) | System and method for application dependent universal remote control | |
| JPH10333811A (en) | General-purpose remote controller | |
| CA2329693A1 (en) | Reconfigurable remote control unit with preprogrammed macro functions and method | |
| KR20040082819A (en) | Universal remote controller with batch processing and operating method for the same | |
| KR20090063640A (en) | Apparatus and method for controlling remotely | |
| JP2005340968A (en) | Av apparatus | |
| JPH06311567A (en) | Remote control device | |
| JP2001204089A (en) | Remote controller | |
| KR100839888B1 (en) | Unit and method for remote control | |
| KR100391930B1 (en) | Integration type remote controller | |
| KR960008886Y1 (en) | Remote controller | |
| JP2000125373A (en) | Remote controller, controlled device and remote control system | |
| KR0170150B1 (en) | Bidirectional remote controller |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Dead |