US20150212612A1 - Control System for Augmenting a Portable Touch Screen Device - Google Patents
Control System for Augmenting a Portable Touch Screen Device Download PDFInfo
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- US20150212612A1 US20150212612A1 US14/679,320 US201514679320A US2015212612A1 US 20150212612 A1 US20150212612 A1 US 20150212612A1 US 201514679320 A US201514679320 A US 201514679320A US 2015212612 A1 US2015212612 A1 US 2015212612A1
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- Prior art keywords
- touch screen
- screen device
- control system
- processor
- enclosure
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
- G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
- G06F3/03—Arrangements for converting the position or the displacement of a member into a coded form
- G06F3/041—Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
- G06F3/0416—Control or interface arrangements specially adapted for digitisers
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
- G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
- G06F3/03—Arrangements for converting the position or the displacement of a member into a coded form
- G06F3/041—Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
- G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
- G06F1/1601—Constructional details related to the housing of computer displays, e.g. of CRT monitors, of flat displays
- G06F1/1607—Arrangements to support accessories mechanically attached to the display housing
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- G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
- G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
- G06F1/1632—External expansion units, e.g. docking stations
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- G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
- G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
- G06F1/1633—Constructional details or arrangements of portable computers not specific to the type of enclosures covered by groups G06F1/1615 - G06F1/1626
- G06F1/1637—Details related to the display arrangement, including those related to the mounting of the display in the housing
- G06F1/1643—Details related to the display arrangement, including those related to the mounting of the display in the housing the display being associated to a digitizer, e.g. laptops that can be used as penpads
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
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- G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
- G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
- G06F1/1633—Constructional details or arrangements of portable computers not specific to the type of enclosures covered by groups G06F1/1615 - G06F1/1626
- G06F1/1656—Details related to functional adaptations of the enclosure, e.g. to provide protection against EMI, shock, water, or to host detachable peripherals like a mouse or removable expansions units like PCMCIA cards, or to provide access to internal components for maintenance or to removable storage supports like CDs or DVDs, or to mechanically mount accessories
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- G—PHYSICS
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- G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
- G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
- G06F1/1633—Constructional details or arrangements of portable computers not specific to the type of enclosures covered by groups G06F1/1615 - G06F1/1626
- G06F1/1662—Details related to the integrated keyboard
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- G—PHYSICS
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- G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
- G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
- G06F1/1633—Constructional details or arrangements of portable computers not specific to the type of enclosures covered by groups G06F1/1615 - G06F1/1626
- G06F1/1662—Details related to the integrated keyboard
- G06F1/1671—Special purpose buttons or auxiliary keyboards, e.g. retractable mini keypads, keypads or buttons that remain accessible at closed laptop
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- G06F3/02—Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
- G06F3/0202—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the input device
- G06F3/021—Arrangements integrating additional peripherals in a keyboard, e.g. card or barcode reader, optical scanner
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- G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
- G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
- G06F3/02—Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
- G06F3/0227—Cooperation and interconnection of the input arrangement with other functional units of a computer
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- G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
- G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
- G06F3/02—Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
- G06F3/023—Arrangements for converting discrete items of information into a coded form, e.g. arrangements for interpreting keyboard generated codes as alphanumeric codes, operand codes or instruction codes
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- G—PHYSICS
- G08—SIGNALLING
- G08C—TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS FOR MEASURED VALUES, CONTROL OR SIMILAR SIGNALS
- G08C17/00—Arrangements for transmitting signals characterised by the use of a wireless electrical link
- G08C17/02—Arrangements for transmitting signals characterised by the use of a wireless electrical link using a radio link
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- G—PHYSICS
- G08—SIGNALLING
- G08C—TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS FOR MEASURED VALUES, CONTROL OR SIMILAR SIGNALS
- G08C19/00—Electric signal transmission systems
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L12/00—Data switching networks
- H04L12/02—Details
- H04L12/10—Current supply arrangements
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G08—SIGNALLING
- G08C—TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS FOR MEASURED VALUES, CONTROL OR SIMILAR SIGNALS
- G08C2201/00—Transmission systems of control signals via wireless link
- G08C2201/10—Power supply of remote control devices
-
- 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
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G08—SIGNALLING
- G08C—TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS FOR MEASURED VALUES, CONTROL OR SIMILAR SIGNALS
- G08C2201/00—Transmission systems of control signals via wireless link
- G08C2201/90—Additional features
- G08C2201/92—Universal remote control
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to hand-held electronic touch screen devices such as smart phones, electronic book readers, and tablet personal computers, and more particularly to augmenting these devices with various external manual hard buttons and/or actuators and indicators for controlling remote devices.
- Touch screen smart phones, electronic book (eBook) readers, and tablet computers have become ubiquitous. Many such touch screen devices employ a touch screen interface along with generic manual controls and/or actuators, while other touch screen devices employ a touch screen interface alone.
- the generic manual controls employed on a touch screen device are typically configured to operate of the touch screen device itself or configured to operate specific applications executing on the touch screen device, and are unavailable for controlling remote devices.
- touch screen interfaces are relatively sophisticated and incorporate advanced touch screen features such a multi-touch and gesturing features, touch screen interfaces are simply not appropriate for all applications.
- existing touch screen devices do not provide dedicated volume control buttons that can be used to control the volume of remote devices.
- buttons for controlling remote devices could be provided in the form of soft buttons via a graphical user interface on the touch screen device, such soft buttons would occupy a significant amount of on-screen area, and thus reduce the on-screen area available for other applications.
- the invention involves a control system for a portable touch screen device having integral processing capability.
- the control system includes an enclosure configured for encasing the portable touch screen device, an internal docking connector configured for communicatively mating with the portable touch screen device, and a plurality of hard buttons. At least one of the hard buttons is functionally configured for use with an application program running on the portable touch screen device.
- the system further includes a processor configured for converting button actuations into a digital format, and a first facility for communicating the digital format to the portable touch screen device via the internal docking connector.
- the application program is configured such that, during operation, the application program communicates a status of the at least one hard button to at least one external device.
- control system further includes an IR emitter, and a second facility for communicating the digital format to the IR emitter.
- the IR emitter is configured to transmit IR control commands directly to the at least one external device.
- the enclosure further includes a front clam shell portion, and a rear clam shell portion.
- control system further includes an external USB connector.
- control system further includes a USB switch, a first USB wired connection between the processor and the USB switch, a second USB wired connection between the internal docking connector and the USB switch, and a third USB wired connection between the USB switch and the external USB connector.
- control system further includes an audio connector which mates directly to the portable touch screen device.
- control system further includes an authentication coprocessor.
- the application program is configured for controlling home and office equipment, the application program provides a user with status indications related to the home and office equipment, and hard button actuations are communicated wirelessly from the portable touch screen device in order to control the home and office equipment.
- the hard buttons are operable to adjust audio volume and lighting brightness without navigating through subpages of the application program.
- the enclosure further includes a wired digital interface between the processor and the portable touch screen device, and the wired digital interface device is selected from the group consisting of: CAN bus, Ethernet, IEEE-1394 (Firewire), RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, and USB.
- the wired digital interface device is selected from the group consisting of: CAN bus, Ethernet, IEEE-1394 (Firewire), RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, and USB.
- the enclosure further includes a wireless digital interface
- the wireless digital interface is selected from the group consisting of: IEEE-802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE-802.15.1 (Bluetooth), IEEE-802.15.4 (Zigbee), and infiNETTM.
- the wireless digital interface includes a proprietary protocol in the UHF frequency band.
- the wireless digital interface functions as a communication channel between the processor and the portable touch screen device.
- the wireless digital interface functions as a communication channel between the processor and an external device.
- the enclosure further includes an infrared digital interface
- control system further includes the infrared digital interface is selected from the group consisting of: IrDA and RC-5 infrared protocol.
- the infrared digital interface communicates using a proprietary protocol.
- the infrared digital interface functions as a communication channel between the processor and the portable touch screen device.
- the infrared digital interface functions as a communication channel between the processor and an external device.
- control system further includes an Ethernet interface.
- control system further includes a power-over-Ethernet interface, and a power supply deriving electrical power from the POE interface and providing electrical power to the portable touch screen device.
- the hard buttons further include an OSD navigation pad, volume up/down, and dedicated function buttons to control “mute”, “lights”, “home”, “guide”, “info”, and “exit”.
- the enclosure further includes an external docking connector configured for communicatively mating with a mounting stand.
- the mounting stand is configured for supporting the enclosure in space, is connected to an external power source, and is further configured for providing electrical power to the portable touch screen device.
- the invention involves a control system for a portable touch screen device having integral processing capability.
- the control system includes an enclosure configured for encasing the portable touch screen device, and a plurality of hard buttons. At least one of the hard buttons is functionally configured for controlling home or office equipment.
- the system further includes a wireless digital interface.
- the invention involves a control system for a portable touch screen device.
- the control system includes an enclosure configured for encasing the portable touch screen device, one or more hard buttons disposed on the enclosure, and a communication path between the control system and the portable touch screen device.
- the communication path is configured for communicating control information.
- the communication path communicates signals corresponding to actuations of the hard buttons to the portable touch screen device.
- control information includes control commands to be transmitted by the portable touch screen device to an external component.
- the communication path communicates status information corresponding to an external device from the portable touch screen device to the control system.
- the communication path further includes an internal docking connector configured for mating with the portable touch screen device and a wired digital interface selected from the group consisting of CAN bus, Ethernet, IEEE-1394 (Firewire), RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, and USB.
- an internal docking connector configured for mating with the portable touch screen device and a wired digital interface selected from the group consisting of CAN bus, Ethernet, IEEE-1394 (Firewire), RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, and USB.
- the communication path communicates control information from the portable touch screen device to the control system, and the system is further configured for transmitting the control information to an external device.
- the communication path communicates status information corresponding to an external device from the control system to the portable touch screen device.
- the system further includes a wireless digital interface selected from the group consisting of: IEEE-802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE-802.15.1 (Bluetooth), IEEE-802.15.4 (Zigbee), infiNETTM, and a proprietary protocol in the UHF band.
- a wireless digital interface selected from the group consisting of: IEEE-802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE-802.15.1 (Bluetooth), IEEE-802.15.4 (Zigbee), infiNETTM, and a proprietary protocol in the UHF band.
- control system further includes a wireless digital interface that functions as a communication channel between the control system and an external device.
- system further includes a wireless digital interface that functions as a communication channel between the control system and the portable touch screen device.
- system further includes an infrared digital interface selected from the group consisting of: IrDA, RC-5 protocol, and a proprietary protocol.
- system further includes an infrared digital interface that functions as a communication channel between the control system and the portable touch screen device.
- system further includes an infrared digital interface that functions as a communication channel between the control system and an external device.
- control system further includes an Ethernet interface.
- control system further includes a power-over-Ethernet (POE) interface, and a power supply deriving electrical power from the POE interface and providing electrical power to the portable touch screen device.
- POE power-over-Ethernet
- the power-over-Ethernet interface functions as a communication channel between the control system and an external device.
- control system transmits control information to an external device via the power-over-Ethernet interface.
- control system receives feedback information from an external device via the power-over-Ethernet interface.
- At least one of the buttons is configured to remain functional regardless of the operational status of the portable touch screen device.
- At least one of the hard buttons is configured for use with an application program running on the portable touch screen device, and at least one other hard button is configured to remain functional independent of the operational status of the application program.
- control system further includes a mounting stand for supporting the enclosure.
- the mounting stand includes an Ethernet interface.
- the mounting stand further includes a power-over-Ethernet interface and a detachable wired connection between the mounting stand and the enclosure.
- the enclosure includes a front cover sizably adapted to protectively fit together along mating edges around the portable touch screen device; and the front cover includes an access opening providing viewing access to a display screen of the portable touch screen device.
- control system further includes a battery and a charging circuit.
- the battery and charging circuit are configured to supply supplemental power to the portable touch screen device.
- the invention involves a control system for a portable touch screen device having integral processing capability.
- the control system includes an enclosure configured for encasing a portable touch screen device, the enclosure including a first portion and second portion, an internal docking connector configured for communicatively mating with the portable touch screen device, at least one hard button functionally configured for use with an application program running on the portable touch screen device, a processor for configured for converting hard button actuations into a digital format, a USB wired connection between the processor and the internal docking connector, and an Ethernet interface.
- the application program provides a user with control functions related home and office equipment, and status indications related to the home and office equipment.
- control system further includes a mounting stand configured for supporting and connectively mating with the enclosure.
- the mounting stand is further configured for communicating information received from the control system to an external device as Cresnet control signals.
- control system further includes a mounting stand configured for supporting and connectively mating with the enclosure.
- the mounting stand is further configured for communicating streaming media received from an external device to the portable touch screen device.
- the Ethernet interface includes a power-over-Ethernet interface.
- FIG. 1 is an illustrative front view of a portable touch screen device disposed within a clam shell enclosure that includes dedicated hard buttons, according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 2 is an illustrative perspective rear view of the portable touch screen device and the inside of the front portion of the clam shell enclosure of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 is an illustrative perspective rear view of the portable touch screen device and the front and rear portions of the clam shell enclosure of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 4 is an illustrative rear view of the clam shell enclosure disposed in a docking station, according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 5 is an illustrative block diagram of a plurality of remote control devices in communication with a home automation system, according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 6 is an illustrative block diagram of the electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure, according to one embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 7 is an illustrative block diagram of the electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure, according to another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 8 is an illustrative block diagram of the electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure, according to still another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 9 is an illustrative block diagram of the electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure, according to yet another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 10 is an illustrative perspective front view of a portable touch screen device encased within a circular clam shell enclosure that includes dedicated hard buttons, according to another embodiment of the invention.
- the present invention involves augmenting a portable smart touch panel with an external control system by disposing the portable smart touch panel device, such as an Apple® iPadTM tablet computer, an Apple® IPhone®, or a Motorola® DROID® phone, or the like, for example, within a protective enclosure (e.g., clam shell) that includes one or more dedicated hard buttons and one or more means for wireless communication, and thereby forming a remote control device.
- a protective enclosure e.g., clam shell
- the remote control device accepts user input and is capable of transmitting control commands to a plurality of controllable devices, such as audio and video components, lighting controls, and HVAC controls.
- the remote control device transmits control commands independent of whether or not the touch panel device is on, or a particular application is executing on the touch panel device.
- the smart touch panel device executes an application that complements the intended end-use of the remote control, such as a graphic user interface that functions as a control panel for an office or home automation system or home theater.
- the remote control utilizes communication methods known in the art to transmit control commands (e.g., key/button presses) either directly to the controllable devices or indirectly through an intermediate device.
- control commands e.g., key/button presses
- the remote control may transmit control commands as infrared (IR) or wireless radio frequency (RF) signals.
- IR infrared
- RF radio frequency
- FIG. 1 in one embodiment, an illustrative front view of a portable touch screen device 5 disposed within a protective clam shell enclosure 1 and thus forming a remote control device 3 is shown.
- the clam shell enclosure 1 includes a front clam shell portion 10 and a rear clam shell portion 20 (see FIG. 3 ).
- the front portion 10 of the enclosure 1 includes a viewing screen access opening 11 which is dimensioned and arranged to fit around the viewing screen of the touch screen device 5 so that the touch screen can be seen while disposed in the enclosure 1 .
- the front portion 10 further includes dedicated hard buttons 31 , 32 , a five-way thumb pad 33 , indicator lights 34 , an external universal serial bus (USB) connector 13 , and an infrared (IR) emitter 17 .
- dedicated hard buttons 31 , 32 a five-way thumb pad 33 , indicator lights 34 , an external universal serial bus (USB) connector 13 , and an infrared (IR) emitter 17 .
- USB universal serial bus
- IR infrared
- more or less hard buttons, lights, and communication ports can be included.
- the enclosure 1 includes one or more optical finger navigation buttons and/or trackballs.
- FIG. 2 an illustrative perspective rear view of the portable touch screen device 5 and the inside of the front portion 10 of the clam shell enclosure 1 are shown
- An internal docking connector 12 is disposed on the inside surface of the front portion 10 .
- the docking connector 12 is configured for electrically connecting/mating to a connector (not shown) disposed on the portable smart touch screen device 5 and enables a communication and power transfer path between the enclosure 1 and the touch screen device 5 .
- the front portion 10 further includes an audio connector 14 disposed on an inside surface.
- the audio connector 14 is configured to electrically connect to a complementary audio port on the touch screen device 5 .
- speaker holes are disposed in an area of the enclosure 1 that is proximate to a speaker on the touch screen device 5 so that sound from the touch screen device can pass through the enclosure 1 without being muffled.
- the rear portion 20 includes a connector 21 that electrically mates with a docking station 2 , as shown in FIG. 4 .
- the docketing station 2 provides a means for charging rechargeable batteries disposed in the enclosure 1 and the touch screen device 5 .
- the docking station 2 also provides a communication link with the office or home automation system or home theater (see FIG. 9 ), and is discussed in detail below.
- the front portion 10 and the rear portion 20 engage each other along common mating edges and are held together using spring retention or pod clips (i.e., clips).
- the front portion 10 and the rear portion 20 are molded preferably of a high strength plastic material for both high impact strength and natural decorative effect.
- the clips are formed of high-strength stainless steel material for resilience and springiness.
- the front portion 10 and the rear portion 20 are thus tightly held together and securely hold the touch screen device 5 without the need for additional fasteners or connectors or adhesive.
- the enclosure 1 may be easily detached and interchanged with components of different colors and textures for aesthetic purposes, or for the servicing of components or batteries within the enclosure 1 or touch panel 5 .
- the rear portion 20 includes a connector 21 that electrically mates with the docking station 2 .
- the docketing station 2 provides a means for charging rechargeable batteries disposed in the enclosure 1 and the touch screen device 5 .
- the docking station 2 also provides a communication link with the office or home automation system, and is discussed in detail below.
- the docking station 2 further acts as a mounting stand capable of suspending the touch screen device 5 (enclosed in the enclosure 1 ) in space at one of a plurality of angles, which allows a user to view and operate the touch screen 5 easily.
- a block diagram of a plurality of remote control devices 3 in communication with a home automation system 70 is shown.
- the home automation system 70 is in communication with, and controls, lighting 71 , HVAC 72 , security 73 , a home theater system 77 , and a home audio system 78 .
- the home automation system 70 can be configured and controlled via a personal computer 105 , a keypad 75 , and/or, as described in detail below, the remote control device 3 via a wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76 and/or a wireless Zigbee gateway 76 ′, or the remote control device 3 disposed in the docking station 2 , which is in wired communication with the home automation system 70 .
- the remote control device 3 can be used to connect to the internet 100 via the home automation system 70 through either wired or wireless communication.
- the wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76 and the wireless Zigbee gateway 76 ′ are combined into a single wireless gateway device.
- the electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure 1 include a processor 50 , a memory 43 , a USB switch 42 , a power supply 45 , the external docking connector 21 , which includes connections for USB communication and power, and the internal docking connector 12 , which also includes connections for USB communication and power.
- the processor 50 includes general purpose input/output (GPIO) interfaces that are in communication with one or more keypad matrices, which are in communication with the hard buttons 31 , 32 , 33 .
- the processor 50 further includes a USB interface in communication with the USB switch 42 via a USB wired connection 131 .
- the processor 50 is also in communication with the indicator lights 34 and the memory 43 (e.g., RAM, ROM, EPROM).
- the processor 50 includes an on-board memory.
- the USB switch 42 which is controlled by the processor 50 , is in communication with the internal docking connector 12 via a USB wired connection 133 , and the external docking connector 21 via a USB wired connection 132 .
- the external docking connector 21 is also in communication with the power supply 45 .
- the USB interface on the processor 50 is a USB on-the-go (USB-OTG) interface.
- the power supply 45 includes a rechargeable battery and a charging circuit known to those skilled in the art and supplies power to all the circuitry disposed in the clam shell enclosure 1 .
- the power supply 45 i.e., battery
- the power supply 45 also allows a charging current from the docking station 2 (and passing through the external docking connector 21 ) to pass through to the internal docking connector 12 and charge a battery disposed in the portable touch screen device 5 .
- the power supply 45 can also draw power from the battery disposed in the portable touch screen device 5 (through the internal docking connector 12 ) to charge the battery in the power supply 45 and supply power to the circuitry disposed in the clam shell enclosure 1 .
- one part or component of a software application for controlling a home or office automation system (e.g., automation system 70 ) is stored in the memory 43 or in a memory on the processor 50 and executes on the processor 50 .
- another part or component of the software application for controlling the automation system 70 resides and executes on the portable touch screen device 5 .
- the first and second components of the automation system control application execute independent of any other application that may be executing on the touch screen device 5 . Further, the first and second application components execute independent of each other.
- the first application component executing on the processor 50 interprets input from the hard buttons 31 , 32 , 33 , converts the hard button actuations into digital signals, and transmits the input (digital signals) to the touch screen device 5 or directly to the automation system 70 , as described below.
- the hard buttons 31 , 32 , 33 are dedicated control buttons with fixed functions, such as volume up/down, channel up/down, lights on/off, home, guide, info, exit, and/or mute, for example.
- These hard buttons execute their respective control functions upon being pressed by a user regardless of the state of the touch screen device 5 . In other words, these hard buttons execute their respective control functions without the user having to navigate through control menus, or without the touch screen device 5 being involved in any way.
- buttons 31 , 32 , 33 are user configurable to control various external devices (e.g., stereo, temperature, light dimmer, etc) and/or system control functions.
- one or more of the other hard buttons are programmed to interact with a graphical user interface displayed on the touch screen device 5 , or control another application executing on the touch screen device 5 .
- the second application component provides the optional graphical user interface displayed on the touch screen device 5 , and includes soft buttons used for controlling additional components, devices, and/or functions.
- the second application component also receives input (digital signals from hard button actuation) from the first application component and transmits the status of the actuated hard button (e.g., pressed) and/or control instructions to the automation system or to a particular external device in communication with the automation system via a wired or wireless communication link.
- the second application component also returns response/status signals (via the docking connector 12 ) that are used to control (i.e., turn on/off) the indicator lights 34 disposed on the enclosure 1 .
- the enclosure 1 is seated in, and in communication with, the docking station 2 .
- the processor 50 controls the USB switch 42 to establish a communication link between the processor 50 and the external docking connector 21 .
- the processor 50 communicates with an external computing device (not shown) through the docking connector 21 and the docking station 2 .
- This external computing device initially loads the first and second application components into memory 43 .
- the processor 50 controls the switch 42 to establish a communication link between the processor 50 and the internal docking connector 12 .
- the processor 50 then installs the second application component on the touch screen device 5 .
- the second application component is installed directly onto the touch screen device 5 by means known to those skilled in the art.
- the enclosure 1 In normal wireless operation/mode (i.e., the enclosure 1 is not disposed in the docking station 2 ), the enclosure 1 is powered by the power supply 45 . Further, the processor 50 controls the USB switch 42 to establish the communication link between the processor 50 and the touch screen device 5 via the internal docking connector 12 .
- a user When a user wishes to control a function of a device that is in communication with the automation system 70 , such as muting the audio of the home theater 77 , for example (see FIG. 4 ), the user simply presses the appropriate hard button 31 , 32 , 33 that is dedicated to, or programmed for, muting the audio.
- the processor 50 executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command created by the user pressing the mute hard button (e.g., hard button 31 or 32 ) to the touch screen device 5 (via the connector 12 ).
- the second application component transmits the mute audio command via a wireless communication link (e.g., wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76 ) to the automation system 70 , which in turn transmits the mute audio command to the home theater 77 .
- a wireless communication link e.g., wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76
- the home theater Upon receiving the mute audio command, the home theater mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to the automation system 70 .
- the automation system 70 then wirelessly transmits the response signal to the touch screen device 5 via the wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76 .
- the second application component executing on the touch screen device 5 transmits the response/status signal to the first application component executing on the processor 50 .
- the processor 50 uses the received response/status signal to illuminate an indicator light 34 corresponding to audio muting being activated.
- the enclosure 1 In normal wired operation/mode, the enclosure 1 is disposed in the docking station 2 and powered by an external power supply. Further, the processor 50 controls the USB switch 42 to establish the communication link between the processor 50 and the external USB docking connector 21 . In this configuration, the processor 50 executing the first application component bypasses the touch screen device 5 and communicates directly with the automation system 70 . In other words, all commands from the enclosure 1 are transmitted directly (via the docking connector 21 ) to the automation system 70 . Likewise, all response signals are transmitted directly to the processor 50 . Consequently, the enclosure 1 is capable of controlling external devices even if the touch screen device 5 is turned off.
- the processor 50 controls the USB switch 42 to establish a communication link between the processor 50 and the external docking connector 21 .
- the processor 50 communicates with an external computing device (not shown) through the docking connector 21 .
- This external computing device emulates the operation of the second application component, which normally executes on the touch screen device 5 .
- the digital signals transmitted by the processor 50 can be observed and first application component can be debugged.
- the electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure 1 include a processor 51 , an authentication coprocessor 41 , the memory 43 , the USB switch 42 , a power supply 46 , a power over Ethernet (POE) interface 44 , the external USB connector 13 , an external docking connector 21 ′, which includes connections for Ethernet communication and power, and the internal docking connector 12 , which includes connections for USB communication and power.
- a processor 51 an authentication coprocessor 41
- the memory 43 the USB switch 42
- a power supply 46 a power over Ethernet (POE) interface 44
- POE power over Ethernet
- the external USB connector 13 an external docking connector 21 ′, which includes connections for Ethernet communication and power
- the internal docking connector 12 which includes connections for USB communication and power.
- the processor 51 includes general purpose input/output (GPIO) interfaces that are in communication with one or more keypad matrices, which are in communication with the hard buttons 31 , 32 , 33 .
- the processor 51 further includes a USB interface in communication with the USB switch 42 via a USB wired connection 131 .
- the processor 51 further includes an inter-integrated circuit (I 2 C) (i.e., a digital bus) in communication with the authentication coprocessor 41 described below.
- I 2 C inter-integrated circuit
- the USB interface on the processor 51 is a USB on-the-go (USB-OTG) interface.
- the processor 51 still further includes a fast Ethernet channel (FEC) in communication over the FEC wired connection 431 with the POE interface 44 , which is in communication with the power supply 46 and the external docking connector 21 ′.
- FEC fast Ethernet channel
- the processor 51 is also in communication with the indicator lights 34 and the memory 43 (e.g., RAM, ROM, EPROM). In other embodiments, the processor 51 includes an on-board memory.
- the USB switch 42 is in communication with the internal docking connector 12 via a USB wired connection 133 , and the USB connector 13 via a USB wired connection 132 .
- the power supply 46 includes a rechargeable battery and a charging circuit known to those skilled in the art and supplies power to all the circuitry disposed in the clam shell enclosure 1 .
- the POE interface 44 allows current from the Ethernet connection to pass to the power supply 46 and charge the battery therein.
- the POE interface 44 also allows current from the Ethernet connection to pass to the touch screen device 5 (via the internal docking connector 12 ) to charge a battery disposed therein.
- the power supply 46 can also draw power from the battery disposed in the portable touch screen device 5 (through the internal docking connector 12 ) to charge the battery in the power supply 46 and supply power to the circuitry disposed in the clam shell enclosure 1 .
- the external USB connector 13 functions as a diagnostic port.
- an external diagnostic computer is connected to the external USB connector 13 , and the processor 51 switches the USB switch 42 to establish a connection between the external diagnostic computer and the touch screen device 5 (through the internal docking connector 12 ).
- the external diagnostic computer can then install or update the second application component.
- the external diagnostic computer can also emulate the signals produced by the hard buttons 31 , 32 , 33 and the first application component executing on the processor 52 in the enclosure 1 , and transmit these signals to the touch screen device 5 , and receive responses from the touch screen device 5 . In this way, the second application component can be debugged.
- the authentication coprocessor 41 is an encryption chip licensed from Apple, Inc., that is included in devices that are officially licensed to communicate with Apple® products. Consequently, if the portable touch screen device 5 were an Apple® iPadTM or Apple® iPodTM, then the enclosure 1 would need an authentication coprocessor 41 to function correctly with the iPad. In operation, after the portable touch screen device 5 (i.e., iPad) and the clam shell enclosure 1 were connected together (via the internal docking connector 12 ), the portable touch screen device 5 would interrogate the clam shell enclosure 1 to verify (by communicating with the authentication coprocessor 41 ) that the enclosure 1 was a product officially licensed to communicate with the portable touch screen device 5 . In this embodiment, the external USB connector 13 functions as a sync port through which the iPad or iPod can sync with Apple® iTunesTM.
- the enclosure 1 is seated in, and in communication with, the docking station 2 .
- the processor 51 communicates with an external computing device (not shown) through the docking connector 21 ′ and the docking station 2 .
- This external computing device initially loads the first and second application components into memory 43 .
- the processor 51 controls the switch 42 to establish a communication link between the processor 51 and the internal docking connector 12 .
- the processor 51 then installs the second application component on the touch screen device 5 .
- the processor 51 can control the USB switch 42 to establish a communication link between the internal docking connector 12 and the external USB connector 13 .
- the touch screen device 5 communicates with an external computing device (not shown). This external computing device installs the second application component onto the touch screen device 5 .
- the second application component is installed directly onto the touch screen device 5 by means known to those skilled in the art.
- the enclosure 1 In normal wireless operation/mode (i.e., the enclosure 1 is not disposed in the docking station 2 ), the enclosure 1 is powered by the power supply 46 . Further, the processor 51 controls the USB switch 42 to establish the communication link between the processor 51 and the touch screen device 5 via the internal docking connector 12 .
- a user When a user wishes to control a function of a device that is in communication with the automation system 70 , such as muting the audio of the home theater 77 , for example (see FIG. 4 ), the user simply presses the appropriate hard button 31 , 32 , 33 that is dedicated to, or programmed for, muting the audio.
- the processor 51 executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command created by the user pressing the mute hard button (e.g., hard button 31 or 32 ) to the touch screen device 5 (via the connector 12 ).
- the second application component transmits the mute audio command via a wireless communication link (e.g., wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76 ) to the automation system 70 , which in turn transmits the mute audio command to the home theater 77 .
- a wireless communication link e.g., wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76
- the home theater Upon receiving the mute audio command, the home theater mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to the automation system 70 .
- the automation system 70 then wirelessly transmits the response signal to the touch screen device 5 via the wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76 .
- the second application component executing on the touch screen device 5 transmits the response signal to the first application component executing on the processor 51 .
- the processor 51 uses the received response signal to illuminate an indicator light 34 corresponding to audio muting being activated.
- the enclosure 1 In normal wired operation/mode, the enclosure 1 is disposed in the docking station 2 and powered by an external power supply.
- the processor 51 executing the first application component bypasses the touch screen device 5 and communicates directly with the automation system 70 via the Ethernet connection on the external docking connector 21 ′. In other words, all commands from the enclosure 1 are transmitted directly (via the docking connector 21 ′) to the automation system 70 . Likewise, all response signals are transmitted directly to the processor 51 .
- the enclosure 1 can control the external device even if the touch screen device 5 is turned off.
- the processor 51 can control the USB switch 42 to establish the communication link between the processor 51 and the external docking connector 21 ′.
- the processor 51 and the touch screen device 5 function as described above with respect to normal wireless mode.
- the electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure 1 include a processor 52 , the authentication coprocessor 41 , the memory 43 , the USB switch 42 , a power supply 65 , a Zigbee interface 64 in communication with a Zigbee antenna 63 , the USB connector 13 , the internal docking connector 12 , which also includes connections for USB communication and power, and an external docking connector 21 ′′, which includes connections for power.
- the processor 52 includes general purpose input/output (GPIO) interfaces that are in communication with one or more keypad matrices, which are in communication with the hard buttons 31 , 32 , 33 .
- the processor 52 further includes a USB interface in communication with the USB switch 42 via a USB wired connection 131 .
- the processor 52 further includes an inter-integrated circuit (I 2 C) (i.e., a digital bus) in communication with the authentication coprocessor 41 .
- the processor 52 still further includes a serial peripheral interface (SPI) in communication with the Zigbee interface 64 .
- the USB interface on the processor 52 is a USB on-the-go (USB-OTG) interface.
- the processor 52 is also in communication with the indicator lights 34 and the memory 43 (e.g., RAM, ROM, EPROM). In other embodiments, the processor 52 includes an on-board memory.
- the USB switch 42 is in communication with the internal docking connector 12 via a USB wired connection 133 , and the USB connector 13 via a USB wired connection 132 .
- the authentication coprocessor 41 and the external USB connector 13 both function as previously described above with respect to the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 .
- the power supply 65 includes a rechargeable battery and a charging circuit known to those skilled in the art and supplies power to all the circuitry disposed in the clam shell enclosure 1 .
- the power supply 65 can also draw power from a battery disposed in portable touch screen device 5 (through the internal docking connector 12 ) in order to recharge the battery (in power supply 65 ) and supply power to the circuitry disposed in the clam shell enclosure 1 .
- an external computing device wirelessly communicates (via the Zigbee gateway 76 ′) with the processor 52 (via the Zigbee interface 64 ) to load the first and second application components into memory 43 .
- the processor 52 controls the USB switch 42 to establish a communication link between the processor 52 and the internal docking connector 12 .
- the processor 52 then installs the second application component on the touch screen device 5 .
- the processor 52 can control the USB switch 42 to establish a communication link between the internal docking connector 12 and the external USB connector 13 .
- the touch screen device 5 communicates with an external computing device (not shown). This external computing device installs the second application component onto the touch screen device 5 .
- the second application component is installed directly onto the touch screen device 5 by means known to those skilled in the art.
- the enclosure 1 In normal wireless operation/mode (i.e., the enclosure 1 is not disposed in the docking station 2 ), the enclosure 1 is powered by the power supply 65 . Further, the processor 52 controls the USB switch 42 to establish the communication link between the processor 52 and the touch screen device 5 via the internal docking connector 12 .
- a user When a user wishes to control a function of a device that is in communication with the automation system 70 , such as muting the audio of the home theater 77 , for example (see FIG. 4 ), the user simply presses the appropriate hard button 31 , 32 , 33 that is dedicated to, or programmed for, muting the audio.
- the processor 52 executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command created by the user pressing the mute hard button (e.g., hard button 31 or 32 ) to the touch screen device 5 (via the connector 12 ).
- the second application component transmits the mute audio command via a wireless communication link (e.g., wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76 ) to the automation system 70 , which in turn transmits the mute audio command to the home theater 77 .
- the home theater mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to the automation system 70 .
- the automation system 70 then wirelessly transmits the response signal to the touch screen device 5 via the wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76 .
- the second application component executing on the touch screen device 5 transmits the response signal to the first application component executing on the processor 52 .
- the processor 52 uses the received response signal to illuminate an indicator light 34 corresponding to audio muting being activated.
- the processor 52 executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command directly to the automation system 70 via the Zigbee interface 64 and the wireless Zigbee gateway 76 ′.
- the automation system 70 then transmits the mute audio command to the home theater 77 .
- the home theater mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to the automation system 70 .
- the automation system 70 then wirelessly transmits the response signal to the touch screen device 5 via the wireless Zigbee gateway 76 ′.
- the second application component executing on the touch screen device 5 transmits the response signal to the first application component executing on the processor 52 .
- the processor 52 uses the received response signal to illuminate an indicator light 34 corresponding to audio muting being activated.
- the processor 52 executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command directly to the automation system 70 via the Zigbee interface 64 and the wireless Zigbee gateway 76 ′.
- the automation system 70 then transmits the mute audio command to the home theater 77 .
- the home theater mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to the automation system 70 .
- the automation system 70 then wirelessly transmits the response signal directly to the processor 52 via the wireless Zigbee gateway 76 ′ and the Zigbee interface 64 .
- the processor 52 uses the received response signal to illuminate an indicator light 34 corresponding to audio muting being activated. In this configuration, since controlling the external device does not involve using the touch screen device 5 , the enclosure 1 can control the external device even if the touch screen device 5 is turned off.
- the electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure 1 include a processor 53 , an authentication coprocessor 41 , the memory 43 , a power supply 47 , the USB connector 13 , a Wi-Fi interface 66 in communication with a Wi-Fi antenna 68 , an infrared (IR) interface 67 , the external docking connector 22 , which includes connections for Ethernet communication and power, and the internal docking connector 12 , which also includes connections for USB communication and power.
- IR infrared
- the processor 53 includes general purpose input/output (GPIO) interfaces that are in communication with one or more keypad matrices, which are in communication with the hard buttons 31 , 32 , 33 .
- the processor 53 further includes an inter-integrated circuit (I 2 C) (i.e., a digital bus) in communication with the authentication coprocessor 41 .
- the processor 53 further includes a serial peripheral interface (SPI) in communication with the Wi-Fi interface 66 in communication with a Wi-Fi antenna 68 .
- I 2 C inter-integrated circuit
- SPI serial peripheral interface
- the processor further includes a universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter (UART) in communication with the IR interface 67 .
- UART universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter
- the infrared (IR) interface 67 is in communication with the IR emitter 17 (shown in FIG. 1 ).
- the IR interface 67 includes one of IrDA, RC-5, and a proprietary infrared protocol.
- the processor 53 still further includes a transmit/receive (TX 1 /RX 1 ) interface in communication with the touch screen device 5 over a wired digital interface 731 through the internal docking connector 12 .
- the wired digital interface 731 is one of a CAN bus, Ethernet, IEEE-1394 (Firewire), RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, and USB.
- the processor 53 still further includes a fast Ethernet channel (FEC) in communication over the FEC wired connection 431 with the external docking connector 22 .
- FEC fast Ethernet channel
- the processor 53 is in communication with the indicator lights 34 and the memory 43 (e.g., RAM, ROM, EPROM). In other embodiments, the processor 53 includes an on-board memory.
- the USB connector 13 is in communication with the touch screen device 5 via a fourth USB wired connection 134 to the internal docking connector 12 .
- the authentication coprocessor 41 and the external USB connector 13 both function as previously described above with respect to FIG. 7 .
- the power supply 47 includes a rechargeable battery and a charging circuit known to those skilled in the art and supplies power to all the circuitry disposed in the clam shell enclosure 1 .
- the power supply 47 can be recharged via the external docking connector 22 when connected to the docking station 2 .
- the power supply 47 also allows a charging current from the docking station 2 (through the external docking connector 22 ) to pass through to the internal docking connector 12 and charge a battery disposed in the portable touch screen device 5 . Further, the power supply 47 can draw power from the battery disposed in portable touch screen device 5 (through the internal docking connector 12 ) in order to supply power to the circuitry disposed in the clam shell enclosure 1 .
- the enclosure 1 is seated in, and in communication with, the docking station 2 .
- the processor 53 communicates with an external computing device (not shown) through the docking connector 22 and the docking station 2 .
- This external computing device initially loads the first and second application components into memory 43 .
- the processor 53 then installs the second application component on the touch screen device 5 over the wired digital interface 731 via the docking connector 12
- the external computing device wirelessly communicates with the processor 53 via the Wi-Fi interface 66 to load the first and second application components into memory 43 . Thereafter, the processor 53 then installs the second application component on the touch screen device 5 over the wired digital interface 731 via the docking connector 12 .
- the touch screen device 5 communicates with the external computing device (not shown) via the external USB connector 13 and the docking connector 12 .
- the external computing device installs the second application component onto the touch screen device 5 .
- the second application component is installed directly onto the touch screen device 5 by means known to those skilled in the art.
- a user when a user wishes to control a function of a device that is in communication with the automation system 70 , such as muting the audio of the home theater 77 , for example (see FIG. 4 ), the user simply presses the appropriate hard button 31 , 32 , 33 that is dedicated to, or programmed for, muting the audio.
- the processor 53 executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command created by the user pressing the mute hard button (e.g., hard button 31 or 32 ) to the second application component executing on the touch screen device 5 (via the wired digital interface and the connector 12 ).
- the second application component transmits the mute audio command via a wireless communication link (e.g., wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76 ) to the automation system 70 , which in turn transmits the mute audio command to the home theater 77 .
- the home theater mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to the automation system 70 .
- the automation system 70 then wirelessly transmits the response signal to the touch screen device 5 via the wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76 .
- the second application component executing on the touch screen device 5 transmits the response signal to the first application component executing on the processor 53 .
- the processor 53 uses the received response signal to illuminate an indicator light 34 corresponding to audio muting being activated.
- the processor 53 executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command directly to the automation system 70 via the Wi-Fi interface 66 and the wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76 .
- the automation system 70 then transmits the mute audio command to the home theater 77 .
- the home theater mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to the automation system 70 .
- the automation system 70 then wirelessly transmits the response signal to the touch screen device 5 via the wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76 .
- the second application component executing on the touch screen device 5 transmits the response signal to the first application component executing on the processor 53 .
- the processor 53 uses the received response signal to illuminate an indicator light 34 corresponding to audio muting being activated.
- the processor 53 executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command directly to the automation system 70 via the Wi-Fi interface 66 and the wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76 .
- the automation system 70 then transmits the mute audio command to the home theater 77 .
- the home theater 77 mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to the automation system 70 .
- the automation system 70 then wirelessly transmits the response signal directly to the processor 53 via the wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76 and the Wi-Fi interface 66 .
- the processor 53 uses the received response signal to illuminate an indicator light 34 corresponding to audio muting being activated. In this configuration, since controlling the external device does not involve using the touch screen device 5 , the enclosure 1 can control the external device even if the touch screen device 5 is turned off.
- the enclosure 1 in normal wired operation/mode, is disposed in the docking station 2 and powered by an external power supply.
- the processor 53 executing the first application component bypasses the touch screen device 5 and communicates directly with the automation system 70 via the Ethernet connection on the external docking connector 22 .
- all commands from the enclosure 1 are transmitted directly (via the docking connector 22 ) to the automation system 70 .
- all response signals are transmitted directly to the processor 53 .
- the enclosure 1 can control the external device even if the touch screen device 5 is turned off.
- the processor 53 and the touch screen device 5 can communicate control and response signals back and forth as described above with respect to normal wireless mode.
- the processor 53 transmits control signals to the automation system 70 or directly to the individual devices (e.g., television, DVD player, etc) via the IR interface 67 and IR emitter 17 .
- response or status signals are received by the processor 53 from the controlled devices by the various means described above.
- the enclosure 1 includes one of IEEE-802.11 (Wi-Fi) and IEEE-802.15.4 (Zigbee) wireless digital interfaces in communication with the processor 52 , 53 .
- the wireless digital interface in communication with the processor includes one of IEEE-802.15.1 (Bluetooth), infiNETTM, and a proprietary protocol in the ultra high frequency band.
- the wireless digital interface and/or the infrared interface 67 provides a communication link between the processor in the enclosure 1 and the touch screen device 5 .
- the docking station 2 when the enclosure 1 is seated in, and mated with, the docking station 2 , the docking station 2 is configured for transmitting streaming media received from an external device to the touch screen device 5 .
- the docking station 2 when the enclosure 1 is seated in, and mated with, the docking station 2 , the docking station 2 transmits control signals received from the processor 50 , 51 , 52 , 53 to an external device as Cresnet® control signals.
- the portable touch screen device 5 is encased within a circular enclosure 1 ′ that includes dedicated hard buttons 31 ′, 32 ′, 33 ′.
- the portable touch screen device 5 is envisioned to be a smart phone with a touch screen.
- EPROM electronically programmable read only memory
- first control button and the second control button may be joysticks.
- the present invention is a unique portable smart touch screen device disposed in, and in communication with, a clam shell enclosure that includes one or more dedicated hard buttons, processing, and communications.
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Abstract
Presented is a control system for augmenting a portable touch screen device having integral processing capability. The control system includes an enclosure configured for encasing the portable touch screen device, an internal docking connector configured for communicatively mating with the portable touch screen device, and hard buttons. At least one of the hard buttons is functionally configured for use with an application program running on the portable touch screen device. The control system includes further includes a processor configured for converting button actuations into a digital format, and a first facility for communicating the digital format to the portable touch screen device via the internal docking connector. The application program is configured such that, during operation, the application program communicates the status of the one hard button to at least one external device.
Description
- 1. Technical Field
- The present invention relates generally to hand-held electronic touch screen devices such as smart phones, electronic book readers, and tablet personal computers, and more particularly to augmenting these devices with various external manual hard buttons and/or actuators and indicators for controlling remote devices.
- 2. Background Art
- Touch screen smart phones, electronic book (eBook) readers, and tablet computers have become ubiquitous. Many such touch screen devices employ a touch screen interface along with generic manual controls and/or actuators, while other touch screen devices employ a touch screen interface alone.
- The generic manual controls employed on a touch screen device are typically configured to operate of the touch screen device itself or configured to operate specific applications executing on the touch screen device, and are unavailable for controlling remote devices.
- Although some touch screen interfaces are relatively sophisticated and incorporate advanced touch screen features such a multi-touch and gesturing features, touch screen interfaces are simply not appropriate for all applications. For example, existing touch screen devices do not provide dedicated volume control buttons that can be used to control the volume of remote devices.
- While such dedicated buttons for controlling remote devices could be provided in the form of soft buttons via a graphical user interface on the touch screen device, such soft buttons would occupy a significant amount of on-screen area, and thus reduce the on-screen area available for other applications.
- Further, using a touch screen interface for repetitive remote control functions, such as changing channels (i.e., channel surfing), for example, is awkward and uncomfortable, provides significant stress to a user's fingers, and can cause repetitive stress injuries (RSI). Despite these drawbacks, because of the graphic flexibility of the touch screen interface, remote controls are increasingly being equipped solely with touch screens.
- Additionally, although users typically desire a remote control with a large display, the size of the touch screen is limited because the user needs to be able to hold the remote with one hand and input commands with the other, free hand. Remote controls with large touch screens, such as with tablet remote controls, are difficult to hold with one hand while inputting commands with the other hand. Typically, these large devices must be placed on a table or other surface to be operated properly. Users have a natural inclination to grasp tablet devices with each hand in an open precision grip, with the user's thumb finger above the top side of the tablet and the remaining four digit fingers on the bottom side supporting the tablet.
- In view of the above-described issues, there is a need to integrate a relatively low-cost portable smart touch screen device with a specialized control device employing hard buttons to produce a remote control with the graphic flexibility of a touch screen interface and the ergonomic benefits of physical control buttons, and which may be easily operated while being held naturally by a user.
- Additionally, there is a need for such a specialized control device to include a dedicated power supply and independent wireless networking capability in order to avoid usage limitations based on the limitations of the associated touch screen device.
- It is to be understood that both the general and detailed descriptions that follow are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention.
- According to one aspect, the invention involves a control system for a portable touch screen device having integral processing capability. The control system includes an enclosure configured for encasing the portable touch screen device, an internal docking connector configured for communicatively mating with the portable touch screen device, and a plurality of hard buttons. At least one of the hard buttons is functionally configured for use with an application program running on the portable touch screen device. The system further includes a processor configured for converting button actuations into a digital format, and a first facility for communicating the digital format to the portable touch screen device via the internal docking connector. The application program is configured such that, during operation, the application program communicates a status of the at least one hard button to at least one external device.
- In one embodiment, the control system further includes an IR emitter, and a second facility for communicating the digital format to the IR emitter. The IR emitter is configured to transmit IR control commands directly to the at least one external device.
- In another embodiment, the enclosure further includes a front clam shell portion, and a rear clam shell portion.
- In still another embodiment, the control system further includes an external USB connector.
- In yet another embodiment, the control system further includes a USB switch, a first USB wired connection between the processor and the USB switch, a second USB wired connection between the internal docking connector and the USB switch, and a third USB wired connection between the USB switch and the external USB connector.
- In another embodiment, the control system further includes an audio connector which mates directly to the portable touch screen device.
- In still another embodiment, the control system further includes an authentication coprocessor.
- In yet another embodiment, the application program is configured for controlling home and office equipment, the application program provides a user with status indications related to the home and office equipment, and hard button actuations are communicated wirelessly from the portable touch screen device in order to control the home and office equipment.
- In another embodiment, the hard buttons are operable to adjust audio volume and lighting brightness without navigating through subpages of the application program.
- In still another embodiment, the enclosure further includes a wired digital interface between the processor and the portable touch screen device, and the wired digital interface device is selected from the group consisting of: CAN bus, Ethernet, IEEE-1394 (Firewire), RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, and USB.
- In yet another embodiment, the enclosure further includes a wireless digital interface
- In another embodiment, the wireless digital interface is selected from the group consisting of: IEEE-802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE-802.15.1 (Bluetooth), IEEE-802.15.4 (Zigbee), and infiNET™.
- In still another embodiment, the wireless digital interface includes a proprietary protocol in the UHF frequency band.
- In yet another embodiment, the wireless digital interface functions as a communication channel between the processor and the portable touch screen device.
- In another embodiment, the wireless digital interface functions as a communication channel between the processor and an external device.
- In still another embodiment, the enclosure further includes an infrared digital interface
- In yet another embodiment, the control system further includes the infrared digital interface is selected from the group consisting of: IrDA and RC-5 infrared protocol.
- In another embodiment, the infrared digital interface communicates using a proprietary protocol.
- In still another embodiment, the infrared digital interface functions as a communication channel between the processor and the portable touch screen device.
- In yet another embodiment, the infrared digital interface functions as a communication channel between the processor and an external device.
- In another embodiment, the control system further includes an Ethernet interface.
- In still another embodiment, the control system further includes a power-over-Ethernet interface, and a power supply deriving electrical power from the POE interface and providing electrical power to the portable touch screen device.
- In yet another embodiment, the hard buttons further include an OSD navigation pad, volume up/down, and dedicated function buttons to control “mute”, “lights”, “home”, “guide”, “info”, and “exit”.
- In another embodiment, the enclosure further includes an external docking connector configured for communicatively mating with a mounting stand.
- In still another embodiment, the mounting stand is configured for supporting the enclosure in space, is connected to an external power source, and is further configured for providing electrical power to the portable touch screen device.
- According to another aspect, the invention involves a control system for a portable touch screen device having integral processing capability. The control system includes an enclosure configured for encasing the portable touch screen device, and a plurality of hard buttons. At least one of the hard buttons is functionally configured for controlling home or office equipment. The system further includes a wireless digital interface.
- According to still another aspect, the invention involves a control system for a portable touch screen device. The control system includes an enclosure configured for encasing the portable touch screen device, one or more hard buttons disposed on the enclosure, and a communication path between the control system and the portable touch screen device. The communication path is configured for communicating control information.
- In one embodiment, the communication path communicates signals corresponding to actuations of the hard buttons to the portable touch screen device.
- In another embodiment, the control information includes control commands to be transmitted by the portable touch screen device to an external component.
- In still another embodiment, the communication path communicates status information corresponding to an external device from the portable touch screen device to the control system.
- In yet another embodiment, the communication path further includes an internal docking connector configured for mating with the portable touch screen device and a wired digital interface selected from the group consisting of CAN bus, Ethernet, IEEE-1394 (Firewire), RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, and USB.
- In another embodiment, the communication path communicates control information from the portable touch screen device to the control system, and the system is further configured for transmitting the control information to an external device.
- In still another embodiment, the communication path communicates status information corresponding to an external device from the control system to the portable touch screen device.
- In yet another embodiment, the system further includes a wireless digital interface selected from the group consisting of: IEEE-802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE-802.15.1 (Bluetooth), IEEE-802.15.4 (Zigbee), infiNET™, and a proprietary protocol in the UHF band.
- In another embodiment, the control system further includes a wireless digital interface that functions as a communication channel between the control system and an external device.
- In still another embodiment, the system further includes a wireless digital interface that functions as a communication channel between the control system and the portable touch screen device.
- In yet another embodiment, the system further includes an infrared digital interface selected from the group consisting of: IrDA, RC-5 protocol, and a proprietary protocol.
- In another embodiment, the system further includes an infrared digital interface that functions as a communication channel between the control system and the portable touch screen device.
- In still another embodiment, the system further includes an infrared digital interface that functions as a communication channel between the control system and an external device.
- In another embodiment, the control system further includes an Ethernet interface.
- In yet another embodiment, the control system further includes a power-over-Ethernet (POE) interface, and a power supply deriving electrical power from the POE interface and providing electrical power to the portable touch screen device.
- In another embodiment, the power-over-Ethernet interface functions as a communication channel between the control system and an external device.
- In still another embodiment, the control system transmits control information to an external device via the power-over-Ethernet interface.
- In yet another embodiment, the control system receives feedback information from an external device via the power-over-Ethernet interface.
- In another embodiment, at least one of the buttons is configured to remain functional regardless of the operational status of the portable touch screen device.
- In still another embodiment, at least one of the hard buttons is configured for use with an application program running on the portable touch screen device, and at least one other hard button is configured to remain functional independent of the operational status of the application program.
- In yet another embodiment, the control system further includes a mounting stand for supporting the enclosure.
- In still another embodiment, the mounting stand includes an Ethernet interface.
- In another embodiment, the mounting stand further includes a power-over-Ethernet interface and a detachable wired connection between the mounting stand and the enclosure.
- In still another embodiment, the enclosure includes a front cover sizably adapted to protectively fit together along mating edges around the portable touch screen device; and the front cover includes an access opening providing viewing access to a display screen of the portable touch screen device.
- In yet another embodiment, the control system further includes a battery and a charging circuit. The battery and charging circuit are configured to supply supplemental power to the portable touch screen device.
- According to yet another aspect, the invention involves a control system for a portable touch screen device having integral processing capability. The control system includes an enclosure configured for encasing a portable touch screen device, the enclosure including a first portion and second portion, an internal docking connector configured for communicatively mating with the portable touch screen device, at least one hard button functionally configured for use with an application program running on the portable touch screen device, a processor for configured for converting hard button actuations into a digital format, a USB wired connection between the processor and the internal docking connector, and an Ethernet interface.
- In one embodiment, the application program provides a user with control functions related home and office equipment, and status indications related to the home and office equipment.
- In another embodiment, the control system further includes a mounting stand configured for supporting and connectively mating with the enclosure. The mounting stand is further configured for communicating information received from the control system to an external device as Cresnet control signals.
- In still another embodiment, the control system further includes a mounting stand configured for supporting and connectively mating with the enclosure. The mounting stand is further configured for communicating streaming media received from an external device to the portable touch screen device.
- In yet another embodiment, the Ethernet interface includes a power-over-Ethernet interface.
- The accompanying figures further illustrate the present invention. Exemplary embodiments are illustrated in reference figures of the drawings. It is intended that the embodiments and figures disclosed herein are to be considered to illustrative rather than limiting.
- The components in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the present invention. In the drawings, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views.
-
FIG. 1 is an illustrative front view of a portable touch screen device disposed within a clam shell enclosure that includes dedicated hard buttons, according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 2 is an illustrative perspective rear view of the portable touch screen device and the inside of the front portion of the clam shell enclosure ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is an illustrative perspective rear view of the portable touch screen device and the front and rear portions of the clam shell enclosure ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 4 is an illustrative rear view of the clam shell enclosure disposed in a docking station, according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 5 is an illustrative block diagram of a plurality of remote control devices in communication with a home automation system, according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 6 is an illustrative block diagram of the electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure, according to one embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 7 is an illustrative block diagram of the electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure, according to another embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 8 is an illustrative block diagram of the electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure, according to still another embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 9 is an illustrative block diagram of the electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure, according to yet another embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 10 is an illustrative perspective front view of a portable touch screen device encased within a circular clam shell enclosure that includes dedicated hard buttons, according to another embodiment of the invention. - The following is a list of the major elements in the drawings in numerical order.
-
- 1 enclosure (enclosing portable touch screen device 5)
- 1′ circular enclosure (enclosing portable touch screen device 5)
- 2 charging docking station
- 5 portable touch screen device
- 10 front clam shell portion (of enclosure 1)
- 12 internal docking connector (mates with portable touch screen device 5)
- 13 external USB connector (mounted on front shell portion 10)
- 14 audio connector (mates directly to portable touch screen device 5)
- 17 IR emitter (to transmit commands to external devices)
- 18 external power connector
- 20 rear clam shell portion (of enclosure 1)
- 21 external docking connector (mates with charging docking station 2)
- 21′ external docking connector (mates with charging docking station 2)
- 21″ external docking connector (mates with charging docking station 2)
- 22 external docking connector (mates with charging docking station 2)
- 31 hard button
- 31′ hard button
- 32 2-quadrant button (hard buttons)
- 32′ 2-quadrant button (hard buttons)
- 33 5-way thumb pad (hard buttons)
- 33′ 5-way thumb pad (hard buttons)
- 34 indicator lights
- 41 authentication coprocessor
- 42 USB switch
- 43 memory
- 44 POE interface
- 45 power supply
- 46 power supply (from POE)
- 47 power supply
- 50 processor
- 51 processor
- 52 processor
- 53 processor
- 54 processor
- 55 processor
- 63 Zigbee antenna
- 64 Zigbee interface
- 65 power supply (power from portable touch screen device 5)
- 66 Wi-Fi interface
- 67 infrared (IR) interface
- 68 Wi-Fi antenna
- 70 home automation system
- 71 lighting equipment
- 72 HVAC equipment
- 73 security equipment
- 75 keypad
- 76 wireless Wi-Fi gateway
- 76′ wireless Zigbee gateway
- 77 home theater
- 78 home audio
- 100 Internet
- 105 personal computer
- 131 first USB wired connection (to/from
processor - 132 second USB wired connection (to/from USB connector 13)
- 133 third USB wired connection (to/from internal docking connector 12)
- 134 fourth USB wired connection
- 431 fast Ethernet channel wired connection (to/from microprocessor)
- 731 wired digital interface (between portable
touch screen device 5 and processor 53)
- Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific language will be used herein to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Alterations and further modifications of the inventive features illustrated herein, and additional applications of the principles of the inventions as illustrated herein, which would occur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of this disclosure, are to be considered within the scope of the invention.
- Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words ‘comprise’, ‘comprising’, and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”.
- The present invention involves augmenting a portable smart touch panel with an external control system by disposing the portable smart touch panel device, such as an Apple® iPad™ tablet computer, an Apple® IPhone®, or a Motorola® DROID® phone, or the like, for example, within a protective enclosure (e.g., clam shell) that includes one or more dedicated hard buttons and one or more means for wireless communication, and thereby forming a remote control device.
- The remote control device accepts user input and is capable of transmitting control commands to a plurality of controllable devices, such as audio and video components, lighting controls, and HVAC controls. In one embodiment, the remote control device transmits control commands independent of whether or not the touch panel device is on, or a particular application is executing on the touch panel device. In another embodiment, the smart touch panel device executes an application that complements the intended end-use of the remote control, such as a graphic user interface that functions as a control panel for an office or home automation system or home theater.
- The remote control, in various embodiments, utilizes communication methods known in the art to transmit control commands (e.g., key/button presses) either directly to the controllable devices or indirectly through an intermediate device. For example, the remote control may transmit control commands as infrared (IR) or wireless radio frequency (RF) signals.
- Referring to
FIG. 1 , in one embodiment, an illustrative front view of a portabletouch screen device 5 disposed within a protectiveclam shell enclosure 1 and thus forming aremote control device 3 is shown. Theclam shell enclosure 1 includes a frontclam shell portion 10 and a rear clam shell portion 20 (seeFIG. 3 ). Thefront portion 10 of theenclosure 1 includes a viewing screen access opening 11 which is dimensioned and arranged to fit around the viewing screen of thetouch screen device 5 so that the touch screen can be seen while disposed in theenclosure 1. Thefront portion 10 further includes dedicatedhard buttons way thumb pad 33, indicator lights 34, an external universal serial bus (USB)connector 13, and an infrared (IR)emitter 17. In other embodiments, more or less hard buttons, lights, and communication ports can be included. In addition to the dedicatedhard buttons enclosure 1 includes one or more optical finger navigation buttons and/or trackballs. - Referring to
FIG. 2 , an illustrative perspective rear view of the portabletouch screen device 5 and the inside of thefront portion 10 of theclam shell enclosure 1 are shown Aninternal docking connector 12 is disposed on the inside surface of thefront portion 10. Thedocking connector 12 is configured for electrically connecting/mating to a connector (not shown) disposed on the portable smarttouch screen device 5 and enables a communication and power transfer path between theenclosure 1 and thetouch screen device 5. - Referring to
FIG. 3 , an illustrative perspective rear view of the portabletouch screen device 5, thefront portion 10 and therear portion 20 of theclam shell enclosure 1 are shown. Thefront portion 10 further includes anaudio connector 14 disposed on an inside surface. Theaudio connector 14 is configured to electrically connect to a complementary audio port on thetouch screen device 5. In some embodiments, speaker holes are disposed in an area of theenclosure 1 that is proximate to a speaker on thetouch screen device 5 so that sound from the touch screen device can pass through theenclosure 1 without being muffled. Therear portion 20 includes aconnector 21 that electrically mates with adocking station 2, as shown inFIG. 4 . Thedocketing station 2 provides a means for charging rechargeable batteries disposed in theenclosure 1 and thetouch screen device 5. Thedocking station 2 also provides a communication link with the office or home automation system or home theater (seeFIG. 9 ), and is discussed in detail below. - The
front portion 10 and therear portion 20 engage each other along common mating edges and are held together using spring retention or pod clips (i.e., clips). Thefront portion 10 and therear portion 20 are molded preferably of a high strength plastic material for both high impact strength and natural decorative effect. The clips are formed of high-strength stainless steel material for resilience and springiness. Thefront portion 10 and therear portion 20 are thus tightly held together and securely hold thetouch screen device 5 without the need for additional fasteners or connectors or adhesive. Theenclosure 1 may be easily detached and interchanged with components of different colors and textures for aesthetic purposes, or for the servicing of components or batteries within theenclosure 1 ortouch panel 5. - Referring to
FIG. 4 , as mentioned above, therear portion 20 includes aconnector 21 that electrically mates with thedocking station 2. Thedocketing station 2 provides a means for charging rechargeable batteries disposed in theenclosure 1 and thetouch screen device 5. Thedocking station 2 also provides a communication link with the office or home automation system, and is discussed in detail below. Thedocking station 2 further acts as a mounting stand capable of suspending the touch screen device 5 (enclosed in the enclosure 1) in space at one of a plurality of angles, which allows a user to view and operate thetouch screen 5 easily. - Referring to
FIG. 5 , in one embodiment, a block diagram of a plurality ofremote control devices 3 in communication with ahome automation system 70 is shown. Thehome automation system 70 is in communication with, and controls,lighting 71,HVAC 72,security 73, ahome theater system 77, and ahome audio system 78. Thehome automation system 70 can be configured and controlled via apersonal computer 105, akeypad 75, and/or, as described in detail below, theremote control device 3 via a wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76 and/or awireless Zigbee gateway 76′, or theremote control device 3 disposed in thedocking station 2, which is in wired communication with thehome automation system 70. In some embodiments, theremote control device 3 can be used to connect to theinternet 100 via thehome automation system 70 through either wired or wireless communication. In other embodiments the wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76 and thewireless Zigbee gateway 76′ are combined into a single wireless gateway device. - Referring to
FIG. 6 , in one embodiment, an illustrative block diagram of the electronic components disposed in theclam shell enclosure 1 is shown. The electronic components disposed in theclam shell enclosure 1 include aprocessor 50, amemory 43, aUSB switch 42, apower supply 45, theexternal docking connector 21, which includes connections for USB communication and power, and theinternal docking connector 12, which also includes connections for USB communication and power. - The
processor 50 includes general purpose input/output (GPIO) interfaces that are in communication with one or more keypad matrices, which are in communication with thehard buttons processor 50 further includes a USB interface in communication with theUSB switch 42 via a USB wiredconnection 131. Theprocessor 50 is also in communication with the indicator lights 34 and the memory 43 (e.g., RAM, ROM, EPROM). In other embodiments, theprocessor 50 includes an on-board memory. TheUSB switch 42, which is controlled by theprocessor 50, is in communication with theinternal docking connector 12 via a USB wiredconnection 133, and theexternal docking connector 21 via a USB wiredconnection 132. Theexternal docking connector 21 is also in communication with thepower supply 45. In other embodiments, the USB interface on theprocessor 50 is a USB on-the-go (USB-OTG) interface. - The
power supply 45 includes a rechargeable battery and a charging circuit known to those skilled in the art and supplies power to all the circuitry disposed in theclam shell enclosure 1. The power supply 45 (i.e., battery) can be recharged via theexternal docking connector 21 when connected to thedocking station 2. Thepower supply 45 also allows a charging current from the docking station 2 (and passing through the external docking connector 21) to pass through to theinternal docking connector 12 and charge a battery disposed in the portabletouch screen device 5. Further, thepower supply 45 can also draw power from the battery disposed in the portable touch screen device 5 (through the internal docking connector 12) to charge the battery in thepower supply 45 and supply power to the circuitry disposed in theclam shell enclosure 1. - Still referring to
FIG. 6 , one part or component of a software application (first application component) for controlling a home or office automation system (e.g., automation system 70) is stored in thememory 43 or in a memory on theprocessor 50 and executes on theprocessor 50. Additionally, another part or component of the software application (second application component) for controlling theautomation system 70 resides and executes on the portabletouch screen device 5. The first and second components of the automation system control application execute independent of any other application that may be executing on thetouch screen device 5. Further, the first and second application components execute independent of each other. - The first application component executing on the
processor 50 interprets input from thehard buttons touch screen device 5 or directly to theautomation system 70, as described below. In various embodiments, at least some of thehard buttons touch screen device 5. In other words, these hard buttons execute their respective control functions without the user having to navigate through control menus, or without thetouch screen device 5 being involved in any way. - Other of the
hard buttons touch screen device 5, or control another application executing on thetouch screen device 5. - The second application component provides the optional graphical user interface displayed on the
touch screen device 5, and includes soft buttons used for controlling additional components, devices, and/or functions. The second application component also receives input (digital signals from hard button actuation) from the first application component and transmits the status of the actuated hard button (e.g., pressed) and/or control instructions to the automation system or to a particular external device in communication with the automation system via a wired or wireless communication link. The second application component also returns response/status signals (via the docking connector 12) that are used to control (i.e., turn on/off) the indicator lights 34 disposed on theenclosure 1. - In one embodiment, during an initial device configuration and set-up operation, the
enclosure 1 is seated in, and in communication with, thedocking station 2. Theprocessor 50 then controls theUSB switch 42 to establish a communication link between theprocessor 50 and theexternal docking connector 21. In this configuration, theprocessor 50 communicates with an external computing device (not shown) through thedocking connector 21 and thedocking station 2. This external computing device initially loads the first and second application components intomemory 43. Thereafter, theprocessor 50 controls theswitch 42 to establish a communication link between theprocessor 50 and theinternal docking connector 12. Theprocessor 50 then installs the second application component on thetouch screen device 5. In other embodiments, the second application component is installed directly onto thetouch screen device 5 by means known to those skilled in the art. - In normal wireless operation/mode (i.e., the
enclosure 1 is not disposed in the docking station 2), theenclosure 1 is powered by thepower supply 45. Further, theprocessor 50 controls theUSB switch 42 to establish the communication link between theprocessor 50 and thetouch screen device 5 via theinternal docking connector 12. - When a user wishes to control a function of a device that is in communication with the
automation system 70, such as muting the audio of thehome theater 77, for example (seeFIG. 4 ), the user simply presses the appropriatehard button processor 50 executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command created by the user pressing the mute hard button (e.g.,hard button 31 or 32) to the touch screen device 5 (via the connector 12). The second application component transmits the mute audio command via a wireless communication link (e.g., wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76) to theautomation system 70, which in turn transmits the mute audio command to thehome theater 77. - Upon receiving the mute audio command, the home theater mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to the
automation system 70. Theautomation system 70 then wirelessly transmits the response signal to thetouch screen device 5 via the wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76. The second application component executing on thetouch screen device 5 transmits the response/status signal to the first application component executing on theprocessor 50. Theprocessor 50 uses the received response/status signal to illuminate an indicator light 34 corresponding to audio muting being activated. - In normal wired operation/mode, the
enclosure 1 is disposed in thedocking station 2 and powered by an external power supply. Further, theprocessor 50 controls theUSB switch 42 to establish the communication link between theprocessor 50 and the externalUSB docking connector 21. In this configuration, theprocessor 50 executing the first application component bypasses thetouch screen device 5 and communicates directly with theautomation system 70. In other words, all commands from theenclosure 1 are transmitted directly (via the docking connector 21) to theautomation system 70. Likewise, all response signals are transmitted directly to theprocessor 50. Consequently, theenclosure 1 is capable of controlling external devices even if thetouch screen device 5 is turned off. - In diagnostic mode, the
processor 50 controls theUSB switch 42 to establish a communication link between theprocessor 50 and theexternal docking connector 21. In this configuration, theprocessor 50 communicates with an external computing device (not shown) through thedocking connector 21. This external computing device emulates the operation of the second application component, which normally executes on thetouch screen device 5. In this configuration the digital signals transmitted by theprocessor 50 can be observed and first application component can be debugged. - Referring to
FIG. 7 , in another embodiment, an illustrative block diagram of the electronic components disposed in theclam shell enclosure 1 is shown. The electronic components disposed in theclam shell enclosure 1 include aprocessor 51, anauthentication coprocessor 41, thememory 43, theUSB switch 42, apower supply 46, a power over Ethernet (POE)interface 44, theexternal USB connector 13, anexternal docking connector 21′, which includes connections for Ethernet communication and power, and theinternal docking connector 12, which includes connections for USB communication and power. - The
processor 51 includes general purpose input/output (GPIO) interfaces that are in communication with one or more keypad matrices, which are in communication with thehard buttons processor 51 further includes a USB interface in communication with theUSB switch 42 via a USB wiredconnection 131. Theprocessor 51 further includes an inter-integrated circuit (I2C) (i.e., a digital bus) in communication with theauthentication coprocessor 41 described below. In other embodiments, the USB interface on theprocessor 51 is a USB on-the-go (USB-OTG) interface. - The
processor 51 still further includes a fast Ethernet channel (FEC) in communication over the FEC wiredconnection 431 with thePOE interface 44, which is in communication with thepower supply 46 and theexternal docking connector 21′. When theexternal docking connector 21′ is connected to thedocking station 2, thePOE interface 44 allows theprocessor 51 to communicate with an external device over an Ethernet connection. - The
processor 51 is also in communication with the indicator lights 34 and the memory 43 (e.g., RAM, ROM, EPROM). In other embodiments, theprocessor 51 includes an on-board memory. TheUSB switch 42 is in communication with theinternal docking connector 12 via a USB wiredconnection 133, and theUSB connector 13 via a USB wiredconnection 132. - The
power supply 46 includes a rechargeable battery and a charging circuit known to those skilled in the art and supplies power to all the circuitry disposed in theclam shell enclosure 1. When theenclosure 1 is disposed in thedocking station 2, thePOE interface 44 allows current from the Ethernet connection to pass to thepower supply 46 and charge the battery therein. ThePOE interface 44 also allows current from the Ethernet connection to pass to the touch screen device 5 (via the internal docking connector 12) to charge a battery disposed therein. Further, thepower supply 46 can also draw power from the battery disposed in the portable touch screen device 5 (through the internal docking connector 12) to charge the battery in thepower supply 46 and supply power to the circuitry disposed in theclam shell enclosure 1. - The
external USB connector 13 functions as a diagnostic port. When the second application component residing and executing on thetouch screen device 5 needs to be installed, updated, or debugged, an external diagnostic computer is connected to theexternal USB connector 13, and theprocessor 51 switches theUSB switch 42 to establish a connection between the external diagnostic computer and the touch screen device 5 (through the internal docking connector 12). The external diagnostic computer can then install or update the second application component. The external diagnostic computer can also emulate the signals produced by thehard buttons processor 52 in theenclosure 1, and transmit these signals to thetouch screen device 5, and receive responses from thetouch screen device 5. In this way, the second application component can be debugged. - The
authentication coprocessor 41 is an encryption chip licensed from Apple, Inc., that is included in devices that are officially licensed to communicate with Apple® products. Consequently, if the portabletouch screen device 5 were an Apple® iPad™ or Apple® iPod™, then theenclosure 1 would need anauthentication coprocessor 41 to function correctly with the iPad. In operation, after the portable touch screen device 5 (i.e., iPad) and theclam shell enclosure 1 were connected together (via the internal docking connector 12), the portabletouch screen device 5 would interrogate theclam shell enclosure 1 to verify (by communicating with the authentication coprocessor 41) that theenclosure 1 was a product officially licensed to communicate with the portabletouch screen device 5. In this embodiment, theexternal USB connector 13 functions as a sync port through which the iPad or iPod can sync with Apple® iTunes™. - In one embodiment, during an initial device configuration and set-up operation, the
enclosure 1 is seated in, and in communication with, thedocking station 2. In this configuration, theprocessor 51 communicates with an external computing device (not shown) through thedocking connector 21′ and thedocking station 2. This external computing device initially loads the first and second application components intomemory 43. Thereafter, theprocessor 51 controls theswitch 42 to establish a communication link between theprocessor 51 and theinternal docking connector 12. Theprocessor 51 then installs the second application component on thetouch screen device 5. - In another embodiment, the
processor 51 can control theUSB switch 42 to establish a communication link between theinternal docking connector 12 and theexternal USB connector 13. In this configuration, thetouch screen device 5 communicates with an external computing device (not shown). This external computing device installs the second application component onto thetouch screen device 5. In still another embodiment, the second application component is installed directly onto thetouch screen device 5 by means known to those skilled in the art. - In normal wireless operation/mode (i.e., the
enclosure 1 is not disposed in the docking station 2), theenclosure 1 is powered by thepower supply 46. Further, theprocessor 51 controls theUSB switch 42 to establish the communication link between theprocessor 51 and thetouch screen device 5 via theinternal docking connector 12. - When a user wishes to control a function of a device that is in communication with the
automation system 70, such as muting the audio of thehome theater 77, for example (seeFIG. 4 ), the user simply presses the appropriatehard button processor 51 executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command created by the user pressing the mute hard button (e.g.,hard button 31 or 32) to the touch screen device 5 (via the connector 12). The second application component transmits the mute audio command via a wireless communication link (e.g., wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76) to theautomation system 70, which in turn transmits the mute audio command to thehome theater 77. - Upon receiving the mute audio command, the home theater mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to the
automation system 70. Theautomation system 70 then wirelessly transmits the response signal to thetouch screen device 5 via the wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76. The second application component executing on thetouch screen device 5 transmits the response signal to the first application component executing on theprocessor 51. Theprocessor 51 uses the received response signal to illuminate an indicator light 34 corresponding to audio muting being activated. - In normal wired operation/mode, the
enclosure 1 is disposed in thedocking station 2 and powered by an external power supply. In this configuration, theprocessor 51 executing the first application component bypasses thetouch screen device 5 and communicates directly with theautomation system 70 via the Ethernet connection on theexternal docking connector 21′. In other words, all commands from theenclosure 1 are transmitted directly (via thedocking connector 21′) to theautomation system 70. Likewise, all response signals are transmitted directly to theprocessor 51. In this configuration, since controlling the external device does not involve using thetouch screen device 5, theenclosure 1 can control the external device even if thetouch screen device 5 is turned off. - Alternatively, the
processor 51 can control theUSB switch 42 to establish the communication link between theprocessor 51 and theexternal docking connector 21′. In this configuration, theprocessor 51 and thetouch screen device 5 function as described above with respect to normal wireless mode. - Referring to
FIG. 8 , in still another embodiment, an illustrative block diagram of the electronic components disposed in theclam shell enclosure 1 is shown. The electronic components disposed in theclam shell enclosure 1 include aprocessor 52, theauthentication coprocessor 41, thememory 43, theUSB switch 42, apower supply 65, aZigbee interface 64 in communication with aZigbee antenna 63, theUSB connector 13, theinternal docking connector 12, which also includes connections for USB communication and power, and anexternal docking connector 21″, which includes connections for power. - The
processor 52 includes general purpose input/output (GPIO) interfaces that are in communication with one or more keypad matrices, which are in communication with thehard buttons processor 52 further includes a USB interface in communication with theUSB switch 42 via a USB wiredconnection 131. Theprocessor 52 further includes an inter-integrated circuit (I2C) (i.e., a digital bus) in communication with theauthentication coprocessor 41. Theprocessor 52 still further includes a serial peripheral interface (SPI) in communication with theZigbee interface 64. In other embodiments, the USB interface on theprocessor 52 is a USB on-the-go (USB-OTG) interface. - The
processor 52 is also in communication with the indicator lights 34 and the memory 43 (e.g., RAM, ROM, EPROM). In other embodiments, theprocessor 52 includes an on-board memory. TheUSB switch 42 is in communication with theinternal docking connector 12 via a USB wiredconnection 133, and theUSB connector 13 via a USB wiredconnection 132. Theauthentication coprocessor 41 and theexternal USB connector 13 both function as previously described above with respect to the embodiment shown inFIG. 7 . - The
power supply 65 includes a rechargeable battery and a charging circuit known to those skilled in the art and supplies power to all the circuitry disposed in theclam shell enclosure 1. When theenclosure 1 is disposed in thedocking station 2, current passes to the power supply 65 (viaconnector 21″) and charges the battery therein. Current also passes to the touch screen device 5 (via the internal docking connector 12) to charge a battery disposed therein. Thepower supply 65 can also draw power from a battery disposed in portable touch screen device 5 (through the internal docking connector 12) in order to recharge the battery (in power supply 65) and supply power to the circuitry disposed in theclam shell enclosure 1. - In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 8 , a wired connection to theautomation system 70 is not envisioned. Therefore, during the initial device configuration and set-up operation, an external computing device (not shown) wirelessly communicates (via theZigbee gateway 76′) with the processor 52 (via the Zigbee interface 64) to load the first and second application components intomemory 43. Thereafter, theprocessor 52 controls theUSB switch 42 to establish a communication link between theprocessor 52 and theinternal docking connector 12. Theprocessor 52 then installs the second application component on thetouch screen device 5. - In another embodiment, the
processor 52 can control theUSB switch 42 to establish a communication link between theinternal docking connector 12 and theexternal USB connector 13. In this configuration, thetouch screen device 5 communicates with an external computing device (not shown). This external computing device installs the second application component onto thetouch screen device 5. In still another embodiment, the second application component is installed directly onto thetouch screen device 5 by means known to those skilled in the art. - In normal wireless operation/mode (i.e., the
enclosure 1 is not disposed in the docking station 2), theenclosure 1 is powered by thepower supply 65. Further, theprocessor 52 controls theUSB switch 42 to establish the communication link between theprocessor 52 and thetouch screen device 5 via theinternal docking connector 12. - When a user wishes to control a function of a device that is in communication with the
automation system 70, such as muting the audio of thehome theater 77, for example (seeFIG. 4 ), the user simply presses the appropriatehard button - In one embodiment, the
processor 52 executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command created by the user pressing the mute hard button (e.g.,hard button 31 or 32) to the touch screen device 5 (via the connector 12). The second application component transmits the mute audio command via a wireless communication link (e.g., wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76) to theautomation system 70, which in turn transmits the mute audio command to thehome theater 77. Upon receiving the mute audio command, the home theater mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to theautomation system 70. Theautomation system 70 then wirelessly transmits the response signal to thetouch screen device 5 via the wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76. The second application component executing on thetouch screen device 5 transmits the response signal to the first application component executing on theprocessor 52. Theprocessor 52 uses the received response signal to illuminate an indicator light 34 corresponding to audio muting being activated. - In another embodiment, the
processor 52 executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command directly to theautomation system 70 via theZigbee interface 64 and thewireless Zigbee gateway 76′. Theautomation system 70 then transmits the mute audio command to thehome theater 77. Upon receiving the mute audio command, the home theater mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to theautomation system 70. Theautomation system 70 then wirelessly transmits the response signal to thetouch screen device 5 via thewireless Zigbee gateway 76′. The second application component executing on thetouch screen device 5 transmits the response signal to the first application component executing on theprocessor 52. Theprocessor 52 uses the received response signal to illuminate an indicator light 34 corresponding to audio muting being activated. - In still another embodiment, the
processor 52 executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command directly to theautomation system 70 via theZigbee interface 64 and thewireless Zigbee gateway 76′. Theautomation system 70 then transmits the mute audio command to thehome theater 77. Upon receiving the mute audio command, the home theater mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to theautomation system 70. Theautomation system 70 then wirelessly transmits the response signal directly to theprocessor 52 via thewireless Zigbee gateway 76′ and theZigbee interface 64. Theprocessor 52 uses the received response signal to illuminate an indicator light 34 corresponding to audio muting being activated. In this configuration, since controlling the external device does not involve using thetouch screen device 5, theenclosure 1 can control the external device even if thetouch screen device 5 is turned off. - Referring to
FIG. 9 , in yet another embodiment, an illustrative block diagram of the electronic components disposed in theclam shell enclosure 1 is shown. The electronic components disposed in theclam shell enclosure 1 include aprocessor 53, anauthentication coprocessor 41, thememory 43, apower supply 47, theUSB connector 13, a Wi-Fi interface 66 in communication with a Wi-Fi antenna 68, an infrared (IR)interface 67, theexternal docking connector 22, which includes connections for Ethernet communication and power, and theinternal docking connector 12, which also includes connections for USB communication and power. - The
processor 53 includes general purpose input/output (GPIO) interfaces that are in communication with one or more keypad matrices, which are in communication with thehard buttons processor 53 further includes an inter-integrated circuit (I2C) (i.e., a digital bus) in communication with theauthentication coprocessor 41. Theprocessor 53 further includes a serial peripheral interface (SPI) in communication with the Wi-Fi interface 66 in communication with a Wi-Fi antenna 68. - The processor further includes a universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter (UART) in communication with the
IR interface 67. The infrared (IR)interface 67 is in communication with the IR emitter 17 (shown inFIG. 1 ). In various embodiments, theIR interface 67 includes one of IrDA, RC-5, and a proprietary infrared protocol. - The
processor 53 still further includes a transmit/receive (TX1/RX1) interface in communication with thetouch screen device 5 over a wireddigital interface 731 through theinternal docking connector 12. In various embodiments, the wireddigital interface 731 is one of a CAN bus, Ethernet, IEEE-1394 (Firewire), RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, and USB. - The
processor 53 still further includes a fast Ethernet channel (FEC) in communication over the FEC wiredconnection 431 with theexternal docking connector 22. - The
processor 53 is in communication with the indicator lights 34 and the memory 43 (e.g., RAM, ROM, EPROM). In other embodiments, theprocessor 53 includes an on-board memory. TheUSB connector 13 is in communication with thetouch screen device 5 via a fourth USB wiredconnection 134 to theinternal docking connector 12. Theauthentication coprocessor 41 and theexternal USB connector 13 both function as previously described above with respect toFIG. 7 . - The
power supply 47 includes a rechargeable battery and a charging circuit known to those skilled in the art and supplies power to all the circuitry disposed in theclam shell enclosure 1. Thepower supply 47 can be recharged via theexternal docking connector 22 when connected to thedocking station 2. Thepower supply 47 also allows a charging current from the docking station 2 (through the external docking connector 22) to pass through to theinternal docking connector 12 and charge a battery disposed in the portabletouch screen device 5. Further, thepower supply 47 can draw power from the battery disposed in portable touch screen device 5 (through the internal docking connector 12) in order to supply power to the circuitry disposed in theclam shell enclosure 1. - In one embodiment, during an initial device configuration and set-up operation, the
enclosure 1 is seated in, and in communication with, thedocking station 2. In this configuration, theprocessor 53 communicates with an external computing device (not shown) through thedocking connector 22 and thedocking station 2. This external computing device initially loads the first and second application components intomemory 43. Thereafter, theprocessor 53 then installs the second application component on thetouch screen device 5 over the wireddigital interface 731 via thedocking connector 12 - In another embodiment, during the initial device configuration and set-up operation, the external computing device (not shown) wirelessly communicates with the
processor 53 via the Wi-Fi interface 66 to load the first and second application components intomemory 43. Thereafter, theprocessor 53 then installs the second application component on thetouch screen device 5 over the wireddigital interface 731 via thedocking connector 12. - In still another embodiment, the
touch screen device 5 communicates with the external computing device (not shown) via theexternal USB connector 13 and thedocking connector 12. The external computing device installs the second application component onto thetouch screen device 5. In yet another embodiment, the second application component is installed directly onto thetouch screen device 5 by means known to those skilled in the art. - In operation, when a user wishes to control a function of a device that is in communication with the
automation system 70, such as muting the audio of thehome theater 77, for example (seeFIG. 4 ), the user simply presses the appropriatehard button - In one embodiment, in normal wireless operation/mode, the
processor 53 executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command created by the user pressing the mute hard button (e.g.,hard button 31 or 32) to the second application component executing on the touch screen device 5 (via the wired digital interface and the connector 12). The second application component transmits the mute audio command via a wireless communication link (e.g., wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76) to theautomation system 70, which in turn transmits the mute audio command to thehome theater 77. Upon receiving the mute audio command, the home theater mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to theautomation system 70. Theautomation system 70 then wirelessly transmits the response signal to thetouch screen device 5 via the wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76. The second application component executing on thetouch screen device 5 transmits the response signal to the first application component executing on theprocessor 53. Theprocessor 53 uses the received response signal to illuminate an indicator light 34 corresponding to audio muting being activated. - In another embodiment, the
processor 53 executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command directly to theautomation system 70 via the Wi-Fi interface 66 and the wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76. Theautomation system 70 then transmits the mute audio command to thehome theater 77. Upon receiving the mute audio command, the home theater mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to theautomation system 70. Theautomation system 70 then wirelessly transmits the response signal to thetouch screen device 5 via the wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76. The second application component executing on thetouch screen device 5 transmits the response signal to the first application component executing on theprocessor 53. Theprocessor 53 uses the received response signal to illuminate an indicator light 34 corresponding to audio muting being activated. - In still another embodiment, the
processor 53 executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command directly to theautomation system 70 via the Wi-Fi interface 66 and the wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76. Theautomation system 70 then transmits the mute audio command to thehome theater 77. Upon receiving the mute audio command, thehome theater 77 mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to theautomation system 70. Theautomation system 70 then wirelessly transmits the response signal directly to theprocessor 53 via the wireless Wi-Fi gateway 76 and the Wi-Fi interface 66. Theprocessor 53 uses the received response signal to illuminate an indicator light 34 corresponding to audio muting being activated. In this configuration, since controlling the external device does not involve using thetouch screen device 5, theenclosure 1 can control the external device even if thetouch screen device 5 is turned off. - In yet another embodiment, in normal wired operation/mode, the
enclosure 1 is disposed in thedocking station 2 and powered by an external power supply. In this configuration, theprocessor 53 executing the first application component bypasses thetouch screen device 5 and communicates directly with theautomation system 70 via the Ethernet connection on theexternal docking connector 22. In other words, all commands from theenclosure 1 are transmitted directly (via the docking connector 22) to theautomation system 70. Likewise, all response signals are transmitted directly to theprocessor 53. In this configuration, since controlling the external device does not involve using thetouch screen device 5, theenclosure 1 can control the external device even if thetouch screen device 5 is turned off. - Alternatively, the
processor 53 and thetouch screen device 5 can communicate control and response signals back and forth as described above with respect to normal wireless mode. - In still another embodiment, the
processor 53 transmits control signals to theautomation system 70 or directly to the individual devices (e.g., television, DVD player, etc) via theIR interface 67 andIR emitter 17. In this embodiment, response or status signals are received by theprocessor 53 from the controlled devices by the various means described above. - As mentioned above, in various embodiments, the
enclosure 1 includes one of IEEE-802.11 (Wi-Fi) and IEEE-802.15.4 (Zigbee) wireless digital interfaces in communication with theprocessor - In still other embodiments, the wireless digital interface and/or the
infrared interface 67 provides a communication link between the processor in theenclosure 1 and thetouch screen device 5. - In yet another embodiment, when the
enclosure 1 is seated in, and mated with, thedocking station 2, thedocking station 2 is configured for transmitting streaming media received from an external device to thetouch screen device 5. - In still another embodiment, when the
enclosure 1 is seated in, and mated with, thedocking station 2, thedocking station 2 transmits control signals received from theprocessor - Referring to
FIG. 10 , in another embodiment, the portabletouch screen device 5 is encased within acircular enclosure 1′ that includes dedicatedhard buttons 31′, 32′, 33′. In this embodiment, the portabletouch screen device 5 is envisioned to be a smart phone with a touch screen. - The following is a list of the acronyms used in the specification in alphabetical order.
- A amperes
- AV audio visual
- CAN controller area network (data transfer protocol)
- CPU central processing unit
- DVD digital video disc
- EPROM electronically programmable read only memory
- FEC fast Ethernet channel
- GPIO general purpose input/output
- HVAC heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
- I2C inter-integrated circuit (digital bus)
- IEEE Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
- IR infrared
- IrDA Infrared Data Association (data protocol)
- OFN optical finger navigation
- PC personal computer
- POE power over Ethernet
- RAM random access memory
- ROM read only memory
- RSI repetitive strain injury
- RF4CE Radio Frequency for Consumer Electronics
- RX receiver
- SEL select
- SPI serial peripheral interface
- TTL transistor-transistor logic (data transmission voltage level)
- TX transmitter
- UART universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter
- UHF ultra-high frequency
- USB Universal Serial Bus
- USB-OTG USB on-the-go
- V volt
- VDC volts, direct current
- Alternate embodiments may be devised without departing from the spirit or the scope of the invention. For example, in alternative embodiments the first control button and the second control button may be joysticks.
- To solve the aforementioned problems, the present invention is a unique portable smart touch screen device disposed in, and in communication with, a clam shell enclosure that includes one or more dedicated hard buttons, processing, and communications.
Claims (15)
1. A control system for a portable touch screen device having integral processing capability, the control system comprising:
(a) an enclosure configured for encasing the portable touch screen device;
(b) an internal docking connector configured for communicatively mating with the portable touch screen device;
(c) a plurality of hard buttons, wherein at least one of the hard buttons is functionally configured for use with an application program running on the portable touch screen device;
(d) a processor configured for converting button actuations into a digital format; and
(e) a first facility for communicating the digital format to the portable touch screen device via the internal docking connector, wherein the application program is configured such that, during operation, the application program communicates a status of the at least one hard button to at least one external device.
2. The control system of claim 1 , wherein the enclosure further comprises a wired digital interface between the processor and the portable touch screen device, and the wired digital interface device is selected from the group consisting of: CAN bus, Ethernet, IEEE-1394 (Firewire), RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, and USB.
3. The control system of claim 1 , further comprising an Ethernet interface.
4. The control system of claim 1 , further comprising a power-over-Ethernet interface, and a power supply deriving electrical power from the POE interface and providing electrical power to the portable touch screen device.
5. A control system for a portable touch screen device, the control system comprising:
(a) an enclosure configured for encasing the portable touch screen device;
(b) one or more hard buttons disposed on the enclosure
(c) a communication path between the control system and the portable touch screen device, the communication path configured for communicating control information.
6. The control system of claim 5 , further comprising an Ethernet interface
7. The control system of claim 5 , further comprising a power-over-Ethernet (POE) interface, and a power supply deriving electrical power from the POE interface and providing electrical power to the portable touch screen device.
8. The control system of claim 7 , wherein the power-over-Ethernet interface functions as a communication channel between the control system and an external device.
9. The control system of claim 7 , wherein the control system transmits control information to an external device via the power-over-Ethernet interface.
10. The control system of claim 7 , wherein the control system receives feedback information from an external device via the power-over-Ethernet interface.
11. A control system for a portable touch screen device having integral processing capability, the control system comprising:
(a) an enclosure configured for encasing a portable touch screen device, the enclosure comprising a first portion and a second portion;
(b) an internal docking connector configured for communicatively mating with the portable touch screen device;
(c) at least one hard button functionally configured for use with an application program running on the portable touch screen device;
(d) a processor for configured for converting hard button actuations into a digital format;
(e) a USB wired connection between the processor and the docking connector; and
(f) an Ethernet interface.
12. The control system of claim 11 , wherein the application program provides a user with control functions related home and office equipment, and status indications related to the home and office equipment.
13. The control system of claim 11 , further comprising a mounting stand configured for supporting and connectively mating with the enclosure, wherein the mounting stand is further configured for communicating information received from the control system to an external device as Cresnet control signals.
14. The control system of claim 11 , further comprising a mounting stand configured for supporting and connectively mating with the enclosure, wherein the mounting stand is further configured for communicating streaming media received from an external device to the portable touch screen device.
15. The control system of claim 11 wherein the Ethernet interface comprises a power-over-Ethernet interface.
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US14/679,320 US20150212612A1 (en) | 2010-09-14 | 2015-04-06 | Control System for Augmenting a Portable Touch Screen Device |
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US9024866B2 (en) | 2015-05-05 |
US20150212590A1 (en) | 2015-07-30 |
US20150212587A1 (en) | 2015-07-30 |
US20120062479A1 (en) | 2012-03-15 |
US9874942B2 (en) | 2018-01-23 |
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Owner name: CRESTRON ELECTRONICS INC., NEW JERSEY Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:FELDSTEIN, GEORGE;LABOSCO, MARK;FAGAN, BRIAN;REEL/FRAME:039012/0146 Effective date: 20101206 |
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