WO2001067670A2

WO2001067670A2 - Mobile remote control unit for remote control of a network computer

Info

Publication number: WO2001067670A2
Application number: PCT/EP2001/002499
Authority: WO
Inventors: Olaf Berberich
Original assignee: Olaf Berberich
Priority date: 2000-03-07
Filing date: 2001-03-06
Publication date: 2001-09-13
Also published as: WO2001067670A3; AU6009801A; EP1266483A2; DE10010504A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a mobile remote control unit (1) used for remote control of a network computer (3) via a communications network or a communications line (2), comprising at least one interface (16, ..., 20) for connection to the communications network/line (2); an input unit (13, 4, F) having at least one key (4, F) which is used to initiate a communication link with the network computer (3) and to start a program which is stored in the network computer (3) and associated with said key (4,F); at least one insertable memory which is especially used for storing ID and authorization data relating to a user and/or the function associated with the key (4, F) and/or the address of the network computer (3); at least one processor (23) for controlling the remote control unit (1), especially for processing information stored in the memory (5, 15, 24) and for controlling communication with the network computer (3). The invention also relates to a method for initiating unidirectional or bi-directional communication between a first (7) and a second data processing device (8) via a communications network/ a communications line (2). A pulse sent to a mobile remote control unit (1) causes a network computer (3) associated with said remote control unit to initiate communication between the network devices (7, 8).

Description

Mobile remote control unit for remote control of a network computer

The invention relates to a mobile remote control unit for remote control of a network computer.

It is known that scanners, printers, and other peripheral devices are used in conjunction with computers. The control is essentially carried out by the computer. The operator decides on the computer when data e.g. to be sent to the printer or to another peripheral device and when e.g. Data should be saved on the hard disk.

The identification and authentication or authorization of the user is also carried out on the computer. By entering e.g. A password allows or denies access to certain parts of storage media. Usually, every user creates order structures at his own discretion, e.g. based on directories.

Computers are increasingly being networked. This does not only happen inside buildings, e.g. as part of a local area network (LAN), but also more and more worldwide (world area network, WAN), with the Internet playing a major role.

In addition to computers, peripheral devices, such as printers, are becoming increasingly intelligent without being exploited. Many peripheral devices, especially printers, already have a small web server and own IP address. However, this technique is primarily used only to read the toner level in printers, for example.

Fax machines have not yet been involved in this networking process. However, a first step in this direction is taken by faxing with pixel data e.g. can send individual people or groups of people as e-mail. However, real networking cannot be spoken of here, since the storage structures of the networks are not used, but only addressing independent of the actual data networks (telephone numbers, e-mail addresses). So-called fax answer systems go a little further. Depending on the dialed telephone number or fax number, the caller controls a different server directory from which the entire content is then faxed.

With regard to the described prior art, there is a need that the user who wants to operate a peripheral device always has to buy and operate an expensive computer for this. Accordingly, the user's qualifications must be relatively high, some of which require detailed computer knowledge. In addition, it is also disadvantageous that the operating systems of the computers sometimes have to be loaded over several minutes before the computer itself is ready for use. A user working on the computer must also know the folder structure that may have been set up by another user. In this respect, the user has a hard time finding his way around existing databases. Also, as mentioned, the fax machines are not sufficiently integrated into existing networks.

The object of the invention is to enable a maximum of usability of any peripheral devices or data processing devices and to address network computers without the user having to have detailed computer knowledge with a minimum of costs. Fax machines should also be integrated into the networks on an equal footing and communication, in particular data exchange between any data processing devices are made possible, which can be connected to each other in any communication network.

This object is achieved according to the invention with a mobile remote control unit for remote control of a network computer, the remote control of the network computer, that is to say the communication between the network computer and the remote control unit, taking place via a communication network.

The remote control unit preferably comprises at least one interface for connection to a communication network, an input unit, in particular with at least one button for triggering a communication connection establishment with the network computer, the communication itself and for starting a program assigned to the button and stored on the network computer, at least one usable memory, in particular for storing identity and authorization information of a user and / or the function assigned to a button and / or the address of the network computer and at least one processor for controlling the remote control unit, in particular for processing the information stored in the memory and for controlling the Communication with the network computer.

It is essential for the invention that, for cost reasons, no computer, usually consisting of an operating system and the possibility of integrating different software, is used for the remote control unit. Rather, only a remote control unit is developed in order to e.g. to initiate an action on a central server, in particular to start a special program or to execute a predetermined command sequence.

The approach essentially assumes that the intelligence is shifted from the computer, which is usually operated by the user, to the network computer and that one is highly standardized Communication between the remote control unit and the network computer is introduced.

By means of the mobile remote control unit, e.g. the possibility to control unidirectional or bidirectional communication, e.g. by remote control of the network computer without your own computer knowledge, e.g. trigger between a first and a second data processing device that can connect to each other via a communication network.

This takes place essentially in that a trigger pulse on the mobile remote control unit causes a network computer assigned to the remote control unit to initiate communication between the two data processing devices.

In order to enable communication between the remote control unit and the assigned network computer, there is a need for the network computer to be connected to at least one communication network and for the remote control unit to also be connected to at least one network before the triggering pulse is triggered. For this purpose, the remote control unit can be connected to at least one interface to one or more communication networks, which are e.g. can be the fixed telephone network, the mobile network, Bluetooth connections, LAN, WAN or the Internet.

The trigger pulse can, for example, by actuating a single one of e.g. several buttons provided on the remote control unit are generated. There is also the possibility of generating the trigger pulse by means of a further device which can be connected to the remote control unit.

After triggering the pulse on the remote control unit, for example by pressing a button, the remote control unit establishes a connection with the assigned network computer via the communication network so that these two devices can communicate with one another. Without further computer knowledge of the operator, the remote control unit selects the network computer after the button is pressed, and a program assigned to the pressed button is started on it. This started program preferably has the effect that further communication between a first and second data processing device is initiated without the user having to carry out any further activity on the remote control unit in a particularly preferred variant, since all important information, such as network addresses, must be kept for data protocols etc., are contained in the program which is stored on the network computer. Alternatively, it is also possible for the network computer to request further information from the remote control unit via the communication link, which information is either made available, for example, in the memory used in the remote control unit or is entered, for example, by a user using the buttons arranged on the remote control unit. This can be, for example, information about the identity of the user or also addresses of the data processing devices which are to communicate with one another due to the triggering.

The communication of the two data processing devices, which is to take place due to the triggering, can take place both directly between the two data processing devices and indirectly via at least one further intermediate data processing device. The intermediate data processing device can e.g. are the network computer assigned to the remote control unit or else other servers in the network.

In addition to the possibility that the remote control unit is connected to exactly one communication network in order to communicate with the assigned network computer, there is the alternative possibility that the remote control unit is connected to several communication networks at the same time via several interfaces, so that the network computer follows a triggering of the trigger pulse, that is, for example, by pressing a button via different communication networks at the same time or in succession. The network computer then makes a selection based on certain information stored on it, for example, via which of the various communication networks it continues to communicate with the remote control unit. For example, the network computer can select the communication network that currently provides the cheapest connection.

In addition to an input unit which comprises at least one key, the remote control unit can also comprise a display unit by means of which information can be displayed on the remote control unit. This can be, for example, information from the network computer, in particular a confirmation of execution, a request and / or the function assigned to a button.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the remote control unit is e.g. equipped with a touchscreen, which combines the function of the display unit and the input unit, i.e. the buttons.

In order to achieve a particular universality with regard to the information that is made available within the remote control unit with the memory that can be used, the remote control unit can preferably comprise a chip card reader in which corresponding chip cards that contain the desired information can be inserted. Thus, the remote control unit can be personalized in a simple manner using different available chip cards with respect to different users and different functions can be assigned to different chip cards, so that, for example, by selecting different chip cards after generating a trigger pulse on the network computer with which there is a communication connection , different programs associated with the respective chip cards and the information stored thereon can be started. In a preferred embodiment, the identity and authorization of the user is verified during the communication between the remote control unit and the assigned network computer, in particular before the communication between the desired data processing devices is initiated. This can be done, for example, by transmitting an identification code and / or authorization code from the remote control unit, in particular from the memory arranged therein, such as the chip card, to the network computer for verification. Furthermore, it can also be provided that the user enters at least one code, for example a pin code, on the remote control unit before the transmission of this data in order to identify himself.

An application of the remote control unit can e.g. consist in that after pressing a certain button on the remote control unit, the content of predetermined Internet pages on a print output medium, in particular a printer or also e.g. a fax machine.

After pressing a button on the remote control unit to which this function is assigned, for example after using a corresponding chip card, the information is then transmitted to the network computer via the communication network connection between the remote control unit and the network computer that the button assigned to this function has been pressed, so that on the Network computer may start a corresponding program with which precisely this desired function is carried out after requesting further data from the remote control unit.

For example, it can be stored in the special program that all newly received e-mails are read from the e-mail server of the identified user and sent as a fax to a fax machine whose fax telephone number is either also contained in the program or else whose fax telephone number is queried by the remote control unit, for example by reading it from the chip card or typing it in by the user on the remote control unit. This results in the possibility that a user can output his e-mails or any other data to an output medium of his choice without having to carry a complex computer or have computer knowledge at all. This can be, for example, the fax machine that is made available in a hotel where the user is on vacation.

The triggered communications between the two

Data processing devices, in the case described above between the e-mail server and the fax machine, can be of diverse nature, and only presupposes that the addressed data processing devices can be addressed within any network and that communication between these networks can take place. The user of the remote control unit need not have any knowledge of any different network protocols, since the software stored on the network computer takes account of perfect communication between the data processing devices.

If there is no possibility of a direct connection between the two data processing devices mentioned, the communication can take place via the network computer assigned to the remote control unit or via other computers located in the networks, which also have other functions, such as e.g. can convert the data so that e-mails can be output as faxes at all.

The intelligence of the remote control unit is limited to a small processor, as can already be found on every cash card, for example. In the processor and the memory within the remote control unit, which can each be designed as exchangeable chip cards, the IP number of the one data processing device, for example the e-mail server, as well as the telephone number of the addressed one can thus be used, for example, for the aforementioned application Fax machine be saved, as well as the Information that this desired function is assigned to a specific button on the remote control unit.

The remote control unit is able e.g. Get in touch with the network computer at the push of a button and identify yourself at the same time. Each remote control unit must preferably be registered on the network computer before the first dial-in and preferably entered in an administration database. At the same time, all data processing devices, e.g. LAN and WAN servers entered, to which the customer should have access.

Persons who do not have a computer in a network as the receiving data processing device, but only a fax, can also be provided with storage space on the network computer, so that the network computer assigned to a remote control unit itself serves as a second data processing device and the data transmitted by a first data processing device caches.

If desired, there is also the possibility of accessing the Internet, since the network computer itself can be connected to Internet servers via a communication network.

In addition to an individual identification number of the remote control unit, it can be provided that a user is given the opportunity to enter a personal password in the remote control unit and, if necessary, to save it. However, a password is preferably not stored in the remote control unit, but instead is stored directly on the network computer by means of configuration software. When registering, the user informs which confidential data area on which server should only be reached via this password. Corresponding settings are made by an operator who is responsible for the maintenance and care of the network computer. There must always be a clear assignment between the password and the memory area. If the user has a computer Internet connection, the access authorizations linked to the password can also be entered online, for example, by the user himself or by an authorized person in the network computer assigned to the remote control unit. This option affects not only the passwords, but also the storage of the command sequence assigned to a trigger signal.

The remote control unit can, for example, be connected to the communication network of this device in parallel with an output device, such as a printer or a fax machine. Regardless of the output device, the remote control unit can communicate with the network computer and cause the data desired by the user to be output on the output device. Here, e.g. take into account the fact that it is sensitive data that should only be received by the user who identifies himself by using the remote control unit.

The invention is not limited to a mobile remote control unit in the form of, for example, an external small box, rather the remote control unit can in future be integrated directly into any output device including the necessary input and input control unit and / or output unit. In addition, the mobile remote control unit, which e.g. can be used on landline phones as well as on cell phones, offer the advantage that the user always has his personalized data access with him. The mobile remote control unit can basically be used in all communication networks, by means of which connections to servers or generally to data processing devices can be established. These are, for example, the fixed telephone network, mobile radio, LAN, WAN, but in the future, for example, the power network.

In a further embodiment, after the remote control unit has identified itself in the network computer, a connection can be set up to the memory area on the own or other server to which a password Authorization granted. The remote control unit preferably also enables the user to enter search words according to a list available to him via the input unit. These search words are sent to the network computer and assigned to corresponding categories.

The network computer executes the commands and converts the corresponding data into print or fax data using known technology and sends a content list to the corresponding data processing device, which in this case is an output device. According to the prior art, a relatively time-consuming process is necessary for this, since in particular text data are available in ASCII or vector formats and first have to be converted into pixel data by the network computer. In order to enable the user to select a text in the selection list, the network computer produces a 3 or 4-digit alphanumeric sequence of numbers. The last text contained in the selection receives e.g. number 0001. The content list is sorted by date. The most current text comes first and has the highest number in the number sequence. This ensures that a unique assignment of a number to a text by the network computer is possible at any time at a later point in time, without the content list generated during printing having to be stored as such on the network computer. New data is entered in the list with a newer date and does not affect the numbering made for the existing data.

The operator has enough time to select interesting texts from the content list and requests the individual text from the network computer by entering the individual text number. This assigns the text number to the respective text again and converts it into pixel data and sends it to the corresponding output device. Basically, the following applies: An entry sent from the remote control unit is valid on the network computer until it is replaced by a new entry. The remote control unit can also be used with scanning systems. The procedure is adequate only that the network computer does not send certain data, but instead provides a special storage space for received data. The network computer then gives the incoming data a file name. The file name is entered into the network computer together with the information about the date and assigned categories. According to the current state of the art, it is not possible to automatically convert the received pixel data into ASCII or text data. However, OCR software programs can be used semi-automatically here. The data must then be corrected again on a central computer before it can be made available as text on the Internet, for example. However, it is already possible here according to the prior art to process standardized forms with standardized font fully automatically, so that here too the standardized category formation on which the invention is based leads in various areas that a normal fax is used to enter data, for example into the Internet can be.

The advantages of the invention are significant. In particular, all fax owners can be connected to the computer networks. The costs for such a remote control unit are low because, as with a computer, it is not necessary to use a universally usable operating system or other complex software. Innovations (also called updates) are installed on the network computer. Due to the simple design of the remote control unit, maintenance work is almost impossible. The operation of the remote control unit can be learned in a few minutes. Passwords do not have to be entered permanently, by connecting the remote control unit the saved password is entered. This is also more secure than entering a password on the workstation where it can be found by others. The standardization in category formation makes searching and finding much easier. The identification ensures the greatest possible protection of your own data. The memory that can be inserted into the remote control unit, for which a chip card is used in particular, can be designed in a preferred embodiment in such a way that the memory is divided into different memory areas, each memory area holding information for different input and output paths. This information relates in particular to the various communication networks via which the remote control unit can be connected to the network computer. The different memory areas can contain information on the data format (WAP, UMTS, HTML, plain text with pictures, resolution of the output medium), the data path (e.g. telephone network, LAN, radio, etc.), the data protocol (e.g. TCP-IP, fax, digital or analog) and the address of the data processing devices mentioned, in particular the input or output devices (domain, web server, telephone number, mobile phone number, etc.). This ensures that the required information can be read out of the different memory areas for a required connection establishment between the remote control unit and the network computer, depending on which communication network the two are connected to, if, for example, the corresponding button on the remote control unit to trigger the desired function is pressed.

Precisely because of the possibility of designing the usable memory as a chip card, as is known, for example, with telephone and cash cards, all the information that is important for the operation of the remote control unit can be changed in a simple manner and thus adapted to the wishes of the user ,

Furthermore, not only information about the communication networks can be stored in the different memory areas of the usable memory, but also the function assignment of the keys provided in the input unit and the already mentioned personalized information for the identification and authorization of the user. For example, by changing the chip card, it is possible to change the programming of the buttons on the remote control unit and the buttons with different ones Provide functions such as: electronic signature, payment, retrieval of e-mails and output on fax, scanning of data and / or images and storage on a server, etc.

On the output unit, which is provided on the remote control unit, depending on the chip card used, the labeling of the various keys can, for example, change depending on the stored function. This is particularly easy to implement if a touchscreen is preferably used on the remote control unit, by means of which the buttons realized on the touchscreen are stored with a display.

Such a touchscreen can change its appearance depending on requirements and e.g. Offer navigation menus "back" and "forward" and the like to switch between different views. The currently valid function is displayed in a special area.

The touchscreen also contains the area in which the input is made visible or the output area which displays information that comes from the network computer. The keyboard area can be replaced by another output area if no keyboard input is required.

Using the touchscreen, e.g. first check a entered fax number and change it if necessary. This is the number of the fax with which the network computer is to establish a connection. Different passwords can also be entered. The last one is saved. With the password, e.g. in the network computer a certain data store released for a search.

A numeric keyboard on the touchscreen is used to enter information, such as the fax number. An alphabetic keyboard can be combined with the numeric one, for example for the password. Through a special Enter terminating key "enter" or "return" one line is ended and sent to the network computer.

Keywords are separated from each other by a space if all data on the words are to be displayed. When entering keywords, the numeric keyboard can be exchanged for a special character keyboard.

Data that is to be provided with a certain period of validity when it is recorded (for example, a law is likely to be valid for longer than a report on a football game) can be given with the corresponding information on the date, among other things. be provided. "-" defines the number of days in the past in which data has lost its validity (this serves as an archive function). This validity must be assigned to the data record when it is entered. If no validity has been entered, the automatic entry date is the validity date.

The box is basically set to receive. A key "send" can be used to inform the network computer that it is receiving data from the fax. "@" Tells the network computer that it should extend its search for corresponding data beyond the data released in the password to the worldwide Internet.

Based on the entered keywords, the network computer sends the existing categories to the remote control unit. By tapping on the selected categories, these are checked e.g. displayed again in a lower area and confirmed as a selection on the network computer.

The network computer then sends the specified fax, for example, a list of contents according to the selection criteria and, for example, local restrictions. Based on the selection numbers generated by the network computer, the remote control unit determines which data is to be finally sent. Alternatively, the Network computer when using the "all" key all data of the selection list to the set fax.

The programming of the memory on the chip card or in general of the memory element used in the remote control unit is particularly preferably carried out simultaneously with the installation of the corresponding commands on the network computer. When installing the individual command chains, each of which is assigned to a button function, the remote control unit can be connected directly to the network computer, for example via an interface, in order to simultaneously assign the corresponding function key assignment to the remote control unit or the chip card installed in it when the command chain is installed write. The information about the key label can thus be saved on the card to match the chain of commands stored on the network computer. When using a chip card, it is sufficient to only use this e.g. to connect to the network computer via a card reader / writer.

Another interesting application for the remote control unit is the operation together with a television. For example, a button on the remote control unit can be assigned a function such that, when a television program is in progress, the connection to the assigned network computer is established via the communication network after pressing the corresponding button and the program started on the network computer provides information about the current status from the transmitter's website broadcast program can be called up, this information can then be fed to another data processing device, such as a fax machine. For this purpose, both the date and the time at which the corresponding function key on the remote control unit was pressed are preferably recorded, so that the appropriate website of the desired station can be called up using the software started on the network computer. The viewer of a program thus has the opportunity to add further programs Access and provide background information without having to access the Internet yourself via a computer.

The convenience of operation can be increased in that it can be provided that a further device is attached to the remote control unit, by means of which the signals of a remote control of the television can be evaluated. Thus, instead of pressing a button on the remote control unit by pressing a button on the television remote control, it is possible to cause the remote control unit to send the corresponding trigger signal to the assigned network computer. Since every remote control of a television usually has some buttons that are not used for the device to be operated or even contain freely programmable buttons, these buttons can be used for the desired functions. The device additionally attached to the remote control unit thus essentially corresponds only to a receiver module in order to evaluate the buttons pressed on the remote control of the television.

The following figures schematically show exemplary embodiments of the invention.

Show it:

1 shows a remote control unit which is connected to the network computer via a communication network.

Figure 2 shows a composite system of remote control unit, network computer and

Data processing equipment.

Figure 3 shows the schematic structure of a remote control unit.

Figure 4 shows a more detailed internal structure of the remote control unit In principle, FIG. 1 shows a remote control unit 1 in which an input unit is implemented using a total of four keys 4, each key 4 only functioning as an on / off button.

The remote control unit 1 is connected to the network computer 3 via a communication network 2, in the present case a simple telephone line. If one of the buttons 4 is now pressed, at least the telephone number of the network computer is read out from the memory unit 5 arranged in the remote control unit 1 and the network computer 3 is dialed via the telephone line 2. The network computer 3 is then informed of the triggering of the specific key, whereupon a command sequence assigned to the corresponding key is processed at the network computer 3.

The further steps of the method according to the invention using the remote control unit 1 are shown schematically in FIG. After transmission that a certain key 4 has been pressed on the remote control unit 1, the corresponding command sequence is processed in the network computer 3, which e.g. As a result, contact is made via respective switching centers 6a and 6b, which are located in the network of the network computer 3, to the data processing device 7, which represents a data transmitter, and to the data processing device 8, which represents a desired recipient. The data transmitter 7 can e.g. act as a network computer on which the e-mails of the identified user are stored. The receiver 8 in turn can e.g. is a fax machine that is used to print the e-mails. The connection between the data transmitter 7 and the receiver 8, i.e. the fax machine, can take place directly, e.g. via a communication network 9, which can be the fixed telephone network.

However, there is still the possibility, provided that the data from the data transmitter 7 is not in a faxable form, to first establish a connection with a conversion computer 10, which is also via a Communication line 11 is carried out and after conversion of the e-mail data into a faxable format, this data is sent to the fax machine via the line of a communication network 12. In this case, for example, the data transmitter 7 can be connected to the conversion computer 10 via a local area network 11, whereas the conversion computer 10 can in turn be connected to the fax machine 8 via a telephone line 12.

The communication between the data transmitter 7 and the receiver 8 is triggered exclusively by the program started on the network computer 3. In this respect it is clear that a user does not need any computer skills in order to access and read his newly received e-mails in the described case, since these e-mails are made visible to him on a desired fax machine 8 by simply pressing a button on the remote control unit 1.

Figure 3 shows a special embodiment of the remote control unit 1, which has an input / output unit 13, e.g. has a touch screen and a chip card reader / writer 14. The input / output unit 13 can be connected to the chip card reader 14 via a line or, e.g. form a unit within a housing. The memory, not shown, on a chip card 15, which is inserted into the chip card reader 14, forms the memory which can be used in the remote control unit and on which all information, for example about the user, about the data processing devices to be connected and the data processing protocols etc. are stored. The assignment of the function keys F can also be stored on this chip card.

This function key assignment is shown after the chip card has been inserted into the chip card reader 14 on the input / output unit 13, for example on the display areas D, so that each of the keys F (0-9) is assigned a unique function. If one of the keys F (0-9) is now pressed, the remote control unit 1 establishes a connection with the network computer (not shown) via a communication network and starts the corresponding one Program on this network computer. The connection can be made in a variety of ways by means of a large number of interfaces 16-20 provided on the remote control unit. For example, via analog or digital telephone and fax lines, by connecting to a cell phone or a TCP-IP connection to a local area network or the Internet.

According to FIG. 4, in remote control units according to the invention, regardless of the exemplary embodiment described here, the remote control unit can generally have a data bus 20 to implement a large number of interfaces. Different numbers of modules can be connected to this data bus, e.g. with a socket. Depending on the desired connection 2 to the network computer 3.

Alternatively, wireless modules for local connection via infrared, Bluetooth or radio or similar wireless methods can also be installed on the data bus 20.

The remote control unit comprises an input unit 13 e.g. a keyboard or touchscreen or speech recognition unit that also serves as an output unit when using a touchscreen. Another output unit (LED / LCD or display or voice output) can be connected via a cable socket.

All units can also be in an integrated housing and form the remote control unit. The remote control unit can alternatively be operated via a battery (8) or a rechargeable battery (8) or via the socket (8,1) with an external power supply.

Via a computer 21, data are transmitted to the processor 23, for example via a serial cable 22, via a corresponding module and are stored on the memory 24. In the case of analog connections, a D / A converter 25 for converting analog input signals for the digital processor 23 is additionally interposed.

With installation software, the manufacturer or dealer can use the e.g. serial interface of the computer 21, depending on the input modules used for the processor 23, instructions and data about transmission speed, dialing method (e.g. ISDN / analog), data protocol (e.g. fax protocol or TCP-IP protocol) and type of device (e.g. telephone / fax) are stored. Furthermore, the manufacturer or dealer enters a fixed telephone number and an Internet number (IP) of a network computer 3.

Furthermore, the available services (voice server, fax server, connection to TV set-top box, SMS server, etc.) and the parameters associated with these services (images can be displayed, colored, resolution, etc.) are defined. It is therefore important to develop all the possibilities of the invention as far as possible with all media, as is possible according to the prior art. On the network computer (e.g. an internet server), the information (text, image, sound) is optimally stored separately from each other and from the graphic design and is only optimally combined for the output medium. Each user receives configuration software for the invention in order to be able to make the necessary settings on the network computer.

The selection of the installed connections is displayed. The user assigns an address to the data processing devices used by him. For DV devices that are connected in the local network, this is e.g. an IP number, for other devices a phone number. All devices must be able to be selected via a network.

In addition, the user enters his own data, such as an IP number for the remote control unit, unless this has already been pre-programmed by the manufacturer is, so that the remote control unit can also be addressed when connected to a network or to a network computer.

In cases where there is no network, the respective connection to the device can be made directly. If a device has the option (to process external control or dial signals (e.g. some cell phones), the device can be connected via a data connection. If the device does not have this option, the control line between the telephone cable (e.g. the The user also assigns a command chain to each key (or voice instruction) of the input unit 13 via a computer 21.

Some possible commands are listed below:

Issue command: e.g. With his Internet browser, the user finds a data address (domain, subdomain) that is of interest to him. He stores this data address in the corresponding key and labels the key e.g. with the term "current weather in Morocco". He can also determine whether the fastest, the highest quality (e.g. the landline phone is generally less likely to be interrupted) or the cheapest route should be chosen, or whether a particular type of device is preferred ,

He later removes the remote control unit from the computer and takes you on vacation to Morocco. Here he connected his cell phone and a telephone in the room to the remote control unit at the same time. He has previously configured for the cheapest connection so that the network computer independently selects one of the possible communication networks.

After each connection or removal of a device from a socket, the user presses the reset button. As a result, a signal is sent to the network computer with its own address for identification on all devices connected to the data bus 20. Since in the above example only two sockets are connected to two devices, the network computer receives two signals with the same identification (from the cell phone and telephone). Based on the rule entered (the cheapest device), the server chooses the telephone for further correspondence with the network computer.

After pressing the "Output" button, the network computer gives the corresponding media server (the user is given the output on the phone) - for a phone it is a voice server - the instruction to call up the stored data address and read out the current data (in this case the weather in Morocco ).

A stored data address is often just a directory that contains a number of other data records. If there is no device available in which one can branch out using the so-called link technology with a click (touchscreen version), a number is given with the headings of the individual data records of the control unit 13 or via the output medium. These numbers are generated for the respective caller. If, for example, If 9999 numbers have been assigned, the first 100 calls are deleted, so that these numbers become available again for him. So it is possible for the caller to call up the individual data records either immediately by voice control or later by combining the call button with the three-digit number code.

Freeze command: As an alternative to assigning a number, the last information given can also be assigned a "Freeze" button. If this button is pressed a second time, the information with the same date and data path is called up again.

The special feature of the invention is that all commands are triggered depending on the media environment currently connected. If you hear interesting information on your cell phone, for example, you freeze it and print it out at home. Freeze radio command: The user listens to the radio, the radio broadcasts are saved with texts on a data server and the exact broadcast time. The freeze radio command stores the data address of the radio station in the configuration menu. If a contribution is of interest, the network computer is informed of the time. When this button is pressed again, the network computer asks the corresponding data server whether there is a contribution and outputs it to the output medium selected by the user.

Message command: The user stores an e-mail address (or e.g. SMS) with the configuration software. The network computer informs the message server that all messages relating to the e-mail address are to be sent to it. If the network computer receives a new message, it indicates this via the control unit (3). Via the Messages button, the current messages are output on the currently connected or previously configured output medium. The user can define whether messages should only be output on paper, with voice output messages the messages remain stored on the network computer.

Recommend command: The user stores a fixed output address e.g. the IP number the wife. The command repeats the last output action performed on the addressed output medium. Alternatively, an address directory can be stored on the storage medium, the recipient can be selected by combining the command with a number (or scrolling through a list on the touchscreen).

Pay command: If there is a certificate recognized by a bank in the memory in which, for example, credit card information is stored, you can, for example, call up a single product from a shop address published on the Internet via a number. The Pay command is then activated and a PIN number is entered. A receipt is received via a connected output medium. If no print medium is connected, the information is cached as a message on the network computer and you get, for example, a voice confirmation.

Scan barcode command: The user has defined in the configuration menu to which data address data should be stored. He scans articles in a department store with a barcode scanner. The articles are displayed on the output unit (with consecutive number or clickable).

Shopping basket command: For each article, the user can decide whether to add an article to a list of the products to be purchased by selecting the article and then pressing the shopping basket button. The list is saved on the network computer.

Output shopping cart command: When shopping is finished, the stored items are output by the network computer to the connected or selected output medium, but remain saved at the same time.

Delete command from shopping cart: The network computer reads e.g. the articles with their respective numbers in front of the user, for example on the cell phone. After selecting an article, a single article can be deleted from the shopping cart.

Order shopping cart command: If desired, the user can reissue the shopping cart and then order the order (e.g. using a stored electronic signature) or pay directly

Not all commands have to be triggered by pressing a button. It can be useful e.g. keep the digital signature and bank information on separate mobile storage media. In this case, a command can be triggered directly by inserting the appropriate medium.

Scan data: A fax can be used for scanning, for example. When scanning a barcode, for example, a memory space is reserved on the network computer and the remote control unit dials the network computer. This opens the corresponding memory area and confirms readiness to receive. The scanner's start button is pressed manually and the inserted document is sent.

Give up dictation: By pressing a button, the network computer is instructed to call the user's cell phone, the user gives up a dictation and after pressing a button again, the dictation is e.g. sent as a voice mail to the user's secretary.

The connection options are so diverse that at least one option is found all over the world to connect to the network computer.

Claims

claims

1. Mobile remote control unit (1) for remote control of a network computer (3), comprising a communication network or a communication line (2)

• at least one interface (16, ..., 20) for connection to the communication network / line (2),

• an input unit (4, 13, F), in particular with at least one key (4, F) for triggering a communication connection with the network computer (3) and for starting a key (4, F) stored on the network computer (3) program

At least one usable memory (5, 15, 24), in particular for storing identity and authorization information of a user and / or the function assigned to a button (4, F) and / or the address of the network computer (3),

• at least one processor (5, 15, 24) for controlling the remote control unit (1), in particular for processing the information stored in the memory (5, 15, 24) and for controlling the communication with the network computer (2).

2. Remote control unit according to claim 1, characterized in that it can be connected to at least one communication network (2) via at least one interface (16, ..., 20).

3. Remote control unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the communication networks (2) are the telephone network (17, 18), cellular network (20), Bluetooth, LAN (16), WAN (16), Internet ( 16).

4. Remote control unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a display unit (13, D) by means of which information from the network computer (3), in particular a confirmation of execution, a request and / or a key (4, F) assigned function can be displayed.

5. Remote control unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a chip card reader (14).

6. Remote control unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the remote control unit (1) has a touchscreen (13) which has the function of the input unit (13, 4, F), in particular the key (s) (4, F), and the display unit (13, D) united.

7. Remote control unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that communication between two data processing devices (7, 8) can be triggered by actuating a single key (4, F).

8. A method for triggering unidirectional or bidirectional communication between a first (7) and a second data processing device (8) via a communication network or a communication line (2), characterized in that by a trigger pulse on a mobile remote control unit (1), in particular According to one of the preceding claims, a network computer (3) assigned to the remote control unit (1) is caused to initiate communication between the data processing devices (7, 8).

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that the trigger pulse is generated by actuating a single one of the remote control unit (1) provided buttons (4, F), each button (4, F) generating a different trigger pulse.

10. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that the trigger pulse is triggered by a further device connectable to the remote control unit (1).

11. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the network computer (3) itself is one of the data processing devices (7,8).

12. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the communication between the data processing devices (7,8) takes place directly or indirectly via at least one further intermediate data processing device (6a, 6b).

13. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the remote control unit (1) communicates with the network computer (3) via a communication network (2) after the generation of the trigger pulse, in particular via the telephone network (17, 18), cellular network (20 ), Internet (16), Bluetooth, LAN (16), WAN (16).

14. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the triggering of the network computer (3) is selected via a communication network (2) and a program is started on the network computer (3).

15. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a plurality of programs are stored on the network computer (3), each of which is associated with a trigger pulse.

16. The method according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the

Network computer (3) is selected via several different communication networks (2) and one of the communication networks (2) is selected by the network computer (3) for further communication with the remote control unit (1).

17. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the communication between the two data processing devices (7,8) is triggered and / or controlled by the started program.

18. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the identity and authorization of the user is verified in the communication between the remote control unit (1) and the network computer (3), in particular before the communication is triggered between the data processing devices (7, 8).

19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that for verification an identification code and / or authorization code from the remote control unit (1), in particular from a memory (5, 15, 24) arranged therein, is transmitted to the network computer (3).

20. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that the user of the remote control unit (1) for verification at least one code in the remote control unit (1).

21. The method according to claim one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the code and / or further data, in particular the key function assignment from a in the remote control unit (1) inserted chip card (14) are read.

22. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that after pressing a button on the remote control unit (1) the content of predetermined Internet pages are output on a print output medium (8), in particular a printer or fax machine.

23. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that after pressing the button on the remote control unit (1), the emails of the identified user are output on a print output medium (8), in particular a printer or fax machine.

24. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that after pressing the button on the remote control unit (1) data from a first data processing device (7) is recorded and stored on a second (8), in particular for later retrieval.