GB2351591A

GB2351591A - Remote control of computer

Info

Publication number: GB2351591A
Application number: GB0012796A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Kevin J Youngers
Original assignee: Hewlett Packard Co
Current assignee: HP Inc
Priority date: 1999-06-30
Filing date: 2000-05-25
Publication date: 2001-01-03
Also published as: CN1290876A; GB0012796D0

Abstract

A remote function key 100 is disclosed that permits computer functions to be invoked (controlled) remotely from a computer 140. The remote function key 100 may be mounted in a location convenient for an end user or close to the particular function to be implemented. The remote function key 100 may be portable or worn by the end user for ease of access by the end user. Preferably, the remote function key 100 may be wireless and battery operated, transmitting a wireless control signal to the computer 140 in order to invoke a computer function. The remote function key 100 may be programmed with software and may be programmed to implement more than one function or may be reprogrammed to invoke different functions as functions and needs change.

Description

2351591 METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REMOTE FUNCTION KEYS

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of computers and more particularly to remote function keys for use with computers and computer peripherals.

BACKGROUND OIE THE INVENTION

There are many function keys on a computer key board and on front panels of computer peripheral devices such as printers, scanners, facsimiles, etc. It would be desirable for function keys to be mountable anywhere that is convenient for the user, rather than just on the key board or just on the front panel of a peripheral. It would also be desirable for the function keys to be programmable by the end user.

SUMMARY OF IBE INVENTIO

The above and other aspects of the present invention are accomplished in a system that permits computer and peripheral function keys to be mounted in a location that is convenient for the end user. For example, a computer-operated door may be opened or closed by pushing a remote function key located close to the door and not necessarily close to the computer or key board. Also, a flatbed scanner could start scanning by pushing a remote function key close to the scanner and not the computer. Another application may have the end user carrying the remote function key somewhat like a pager. The end user could then turn on his computer, printer, scanner, coffee machine, lights, etc., whiles he is approaching his office.

2, BRIEF DESCRIETION OF THE DRAWINGS The above and other ob ects, features and advantages of the present invention will be j better understood by reading the following more particular description of the invention, presented in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein:

Figure 1 illustrates a system utilizing a remote function key according to a first embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 2 illustrates a portable remote function key pad according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ME PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Figure 1 illustrates a remote function key system according to a first embodiment of the present invention, wherein a remote function key 100 is mounted next to a computer operated door 130. Computer operated door 130 is opened and closed by computer 140 transmitting a signal by any known transmitting means 150, such as cable, infrared, FM transmitter, etc. In practice, the end user (not shown) may press button 110 on the remote function key 100 and a signal is transmitted via transmitting means 120, such as infrared or FM transn-duer/transceiver. Computer 140 receives the signal via signal transceiver/transmitter 160. The computer 140 processes the signal and transmits a signal via transmissions means to the door 130 and the door will open/close. Remote function key 100 may be mounted in any location that is convenient for the end user with double sided tape, Velcro, screws, clips, or other known mounted means. The remote function key 100 may also be worn by the end user similar to the manner in which pagers are worn.

The means of signal transmission/transceiving 120 and 160 may be any known signal transn-dtting/transceiving means, such as cable, telephone, RF transmission, FM transmission, infrared, etc. The remote function key 100 may be battery or AC powered (not shown). In a preferred embodiment, the transmission/transceiver mode would be wireless. The remote function key 100 may be portable, but would probably have a limited functioning distance from the computer 140. The specific function of the remote function key 100 may be any function that could be performed by a computer function key or a computer. The remote function key 100 may also be programed or reprogrammed to perform different functions.

Any function that a computer could invoke could be invoked by a remote function key 100.

4- The remote function key 100 may be activated with a primary function, such as opening door 130, or may invoke one or more secondary functions, such as turning on lights, coffee machines, television, radio, etc. with a shift function or a morris code type button push, such as a long continuous push or a combination of long and short pushes of button 110.

Figure 2 illustrates a second embodiment of the present invention whereby a remote function key pad 200 has more than one button 220 and a memory button 210. This embodiment would permit a much wider array of functions to be implemented from a single remote function key pad 200, in that the end user may push the memory button 210 and then a predetermined combination of buttons 220 to invoke a predetermined computer implemented function. Again, remote function key pad 200 may be portable or carried by the end user.

The foregoing description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed, and other modifications and variations may be possible in light of the above teachings. For example, other known types of switches or sensors may be used in place of a button or buttons on the remote function key. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention in various embodiments and various modification,T as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the appended claims be construed to include other alternative embodiments of the invention except insofar as limited by the prior art.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A means for remotely invoking a computer function, said means comprising:

6 a computer 140; a transceiver 160 on said computer 140; and 8 a remote function key 100 comprising:

a sensor 110; and a transceiver 120 capable of transmitting a signal to said transceiver 160 on said computer140; wherein when said button 110 on said remote function key 100 is pushed, said 12 transceiver 120 on said remote function key 100 transmits a signal to said transceiver 120 on said computer 140, wherein when said computer 140 receives a signal from said transceiver 14 120 on said remote function key 100, said computer 140 invokes a predetermined function.

2. The means for remotely invoking a computer function according to claim 1, wherein said 2 sensor 110 is a button.

3. The means for remotely invoking a computer function according to claim 1, wherein said 2 sensor 110 is a switch.