WO2008017902A2 - Television both housing, and connecting via a universal interface to, various modular multimedia sources - Google Patents

Abstract

A television ('TV') 11, preferably of the flat screen type, has multiple locations, preferably at its rear, into which diverse modular sources of TV signals 13, 15, including multimedia players, may be readily and easily both physically mounted and electrically plugged 17, 121, 122. Multimedia players 13 are selectively positionable so that media such as DVDs and videotapes may be conveniently inserted and removed nonetheless that the combined TV and multimedia units are visually monolithic, and devoid of clutter. Connection of any device is preferably via a universal cable 17. All devices are preferably uniquely identified to a connected TV 11 upon but one single signal line 533. TV and device control is integrated. Elegant appearance, and functional integration is realized in a modular system.

Description

TELEVISION BOTH HOUSING, AND CONNECTING VIA A UNIVERSAL INTERFACE TO, VARIOUS MODULAR MULTIMEDIA SOURCES

REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

The present application is descended from, and claims benefit of priority of, U.S. Provisional Patent Application serial number 60/734,378 filed November 7, 2005, for SYSTEM FOR DIRECTLY PLUG CONNECTING DIVERSE PORTABLE MULTIMEDIA SOURCES OF TV SIGNALS, SUCH AS DVD PLAYERS OR TV RECEIVERS, TO A FLAT SCREEN TELEVISION IN ANY OF MULTIPLE POSITIONS, and U.S. Utility Patent Application serial number 11/413,942 filed April 28, 2006, for a TELEVISION BOTH HOUSING, AND CONNECTING VIA A UNIVERSAL INTERFACE TO, VARIOUS MODULAR MULTIMEDIA SOURCES.

The present application is also related to U.S. utility patent application serial number 11/413,949 filed April 28, 2006, for a HOME TELEVISION EXPANDABLE FOR WIRELESS ACQUISITION, AND FOR USER-SELECTED VIEWING, OF SURVEILLANCE AND SECURITY IMAGES

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention generally concerns the physical and electrical interface between (1) televisions (TVs) and (2) sources of multimedia television signals, particularly (2a) multimedia players and more particularly Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) players, (2b) TV tuners and receivers, including local wireless receivers and cable receivers and satellite receivers, (3) Internet television converter-tuners, and/or (4) security camera multiplexors..

The present invention particularly concerns adaptations to the physical and electrical interface of both (1) a television, with or without an analog and/or a digital tuner (a "TV") and particularly as may be of the flat screen type, and (2) one or more multimedia sources of television signals, normally media players or a TV tuner-receivers or the like, so that each multimedia source can both physically mount and electrically interface to the TV, preferably in a selected concealed rear position.

Physically, each multimedia source will be seen to interchangeably physically mount in any of a number of selectable concealed positions. In particular, (1) DVD players are positionable visually concealed but conveniently accessible for the loading and unloading of recorded multimedia (DVDs), (2) TV tuners are likewise visually concealed but positionable for the connection of any of TV antennas, or cable TV, or the broadband Internet as the case may be, and (3) camera multiplexors are further likewise concealed positionable for receipt of camera signals.

Electrically, the interface between multimedia sources of all types and the TV will be seen to be the same, and universal.

The present invention still further particularly concerns a universal electrical interface between a TV and multimedia sources - such as Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) players, TV tuners and receivers, Internet television converter-tuners, and/or security cameras — of diverse types. This interface is particularly supported by a special bidirectional signal and power cable (1) where some, radio frequency (RF) signals are shielded, and (2) where the identify of a plugged multimedia source is carried upon but one single signal line.

2. Background of the Invention

2.1 Devices Generally Connected to Televisions both With and Without Analog and/or

Digital Tuners

A typical home entertainment setup can include a half dozen devices — a cable box, a CD/DVD player, a VCR, a gaming console or two, and multiple broadcast, cable, satellite and Internet signal sources - that are all suitably plugged into a TV (with or without a tuner either analog and/or digital) from time to time, at times, and even all at the same time. In order to accommodate connections to all these different devices — which often have different signal interfaces ~ the rear of a high modern performance television typically has great number of input jacks.

Inadequate numbers of input jacks on some TVs has even resulted in "switcher boxes" that let the owner/user plug in several video (and audio) sources, and then connect to a common TV via a single set of cables. There exist a variety of models of such "switcher boxes" for different types of interfaces and plugs. One particular model suitable to connect each of a DVD player, Xbox and cable box is the Impact Acoustics 3 -Play available, circa 2005, from Impact Acoustics.

Meanwhile, various different jacks, plugs and cables have emerged for connecting Audio/Video (A/V) devices to televisions. The best and highest performing interface is often presently (circa 2005) considered to be High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI). HDMI combines a digital video signal and a digital audio signal in a single cable.

Proponents of the High Definition Multi-media Interface (HDMI) standard claim that it has taken, and is taking circa 2005, the consumer electronics market by storm. Moreover, proponents of the HDMI standard claim that the standard is now poised to do the same in the PC market. There are already several hundred HDMI-compliant devices in the market. By Christmas-time of 2005, one estimate suggests that there will as many as 2000 HDMI- compliant devices available in the market. This already translates to millions of units.

Les Chard of HDMI Licensing states that "We [i.e., HDMI Licensing] have seen increasing interest from PC companies, and there are a number of PC companies that are HDMI adopters (ex. Asustek, Amtran, BenQ, Mitac, Quanta Computer, Sharp, Wistron, etc). Also, as you are well aware, several of the HDMI Founders have PC divisions as well. I see no technical or business reasons why PCs should not be implementing HDMI in the near future. In fact, to the contrary, HDMI will be an appealing feature for PC makers and consumers."

Next in performance comes the Digital Visual Interface (DVI) which offers picture quality identical to HDMI but requires an additional audio connection.

Of lesser performance, but more common, is the component video interface, which splits an analog video signal into three cables for a better picture than the ubiquitous composite video provides.

For the communication of audio signals increasing numbers of TVs include optical digital audio input jacks. These audio interfaces use light pulses and glass fiber instead of electricity and wires to deliver a pure and undistorted digital audio signal. This interface is standard on most high-end DVD and CD players, and on gaming consoles like the Playstation 2 ("Playstation" is a registered trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment America Corporation) and Xbox ("Xbox" is a registered trademark of Microsoft . Corporation) gaming consoles.

Television Displays without built-in tuners are properly called "HD monitors" (where "HD" stands for "high definition"), and are slightly less expensive. TV tuners may be either analog or digital, and either or both may reside externally to the TV.

2.2 Specific Patents Concerning Connection to TV's, and/or Systems Supporting Diverse Connections Analogous to the System of the Present Invention United States Patent number 6,608,564 to Post, et al. assigned to Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. (Houston, TX) for a Removable memory cartridge system for use with a server or other processor-based device shows a processor-based device having a plurality of memory cartridges secured within a chassis by a lever system. The processor- based device comprises an indication system to indicate memory system operating conditions. Each memory cartridge has a protective assembly to protect memory elements within the memory cartridge when the memory cartridge is removed from the processor- based device. The processor-based device is operable such that at least one memory cartridge may be removed from the processor-based device without affecting operation of the processor-based device.

United States Patent number 5,794,164 to Beckert, et al. assigned to Microsoft Corporation (Redmond, WA) for a Vehicle computer system shows such a system with a housing sized to be mounted in a vehicle dashboard or other appropriate location, a computer mounted within the housing, and an open platform operating system which executes on an open hardware architecture computer. The open platform operating system supports multiple different applications that can be supplied by a vehicle user. For instance, the operating system can support applications pertaining to entertainment, navigation, communications, security, diagnostics, and others. The computer has one or more storage drive (e.g., CD drive, floppy disk drive, cassette player, or hard disk drive) which permits the vehicle user to download programs from a storage medium (e.g., CD, diskette, cassette, or hard disk) to the computer. In the described implementation, the computer has two independent processors. One processor, which runs the operating system, is mounted in a stationary base unit of the housing and the other processor is mounted to a faceplate which is detachable from the base unit. When the faceplate is attached, the first processor provides the primary control over all operating systems (i.e., entertainment, navigation, communications, security, diagnostics, and others) and the faceplate processor is subservient. When the faceplate is detached, it forms a portable RF device with the faceplate processor providing radio and communications capabilities.

In general this patent shows that it is possible to electrically interconnect for digital communication various functional units of a standard personal computer or the like, even including processors. Of course, in the vehicle computer system, the units are so interconnected via a standard, multi-signal and multi-signal-line, computer bus.

In an embodiment of particular interest to the present invention, the vehicle computer system has two independent processors. One processor (e.g., an Intel- based microprocessor) is provided on a computer module which mounts to a stationary base unit of the housing that resides in the vehicle dashboard or other location. ("Intel" is a registered trademark of the Intel Corporation.) The operating system runs on this processor to support the vehicle- related applications and to additionally provide all of the functionality typically afforded by a personal computer. Another processor (e.g., a digital signal processor) is provided on a faceplate module that detachably connects to the base unit. The faceplate module has an AM/FM tuner, display, keypad, and a CODEC which are controlled by the second processor. A third module, known as the support module, resides in the stationary base unit. The support module contains a storage drive (which also functions as an entertainment player), power supply, multimedia audio driver for the entertainment system, and a communications bus.

The three modules operate cooperatively, or independently, of one another except that the support module can not operate by itself. The faceplate module can be detached from the base unit and operate independently as a portable radio with mono-audio sound. By use of the CODEC with built in speaker and microphone, the faceplate module can further function as a portable phone or a handset unit that can communicate with the base unit in the vehicle. The portable faceplate module can also be used to receive paging information, take voice notes, and to remotely operate the security system. While detached, the faceplate module is powered by an independent source, such as batteries.

The faceplate module and support module can operate independently of the computer module. The faceplate module is physically connected to the front of the base unit and electronically interfaced with the support module. When connected and the computer module is not connected, the faceplate module totally controls the entertainment system of the vehicle. The faceplate processor controls the multimedia audio driver and the CD player in the support module. The faceplate module derives its power from the vehicle batteries via the power supply in the faceplate module.

When the computer module is also present, the faceplate module is controlled as a plug-connectable peripheral device. This may be done while the power is on, or "hot". Thus, in the common idiom, the faceplate module is described as being "hot pluggable". The processor on the computer module has full control of the communications bus and is master to the faceplate processor. The computer module processor controls systems not contained in the faceplate and can indirectly control resources contained in the faceplate. Also, the faceplate module processor lends signal processing resources to enhance the entertainment services and directly controls the resources contained in the faceplate.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention contemplates a system — including both a physical interface and an electrical interface - wherein (1) diverse sources of multimedia television signals, particularly (Ia) multimedia players and more particularly Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) players, (Ib) TV tuners and receivers, including local wireless receivers and cable receivers and satellite receivers, (Ic) Internet television converter-tuners, and/or (Id) security camera multiplexors, may any and all be plug-connected to selected ones of (2) predetermined physical mounts and electrical plugs that are most preferably located on, and at the back of, a (3) television (a "TV"). The TV may be with or without a tuner that may be of the analog and/or digital types. The TV is, most preferably, (1) with an internal tuner, and (2) of the flat screen type.

The present invention further contemplates that the diverse (1) mountable and (2) pluggable multimedia sources of television signals may each be so mounted and plugged at any number of several positions are of which are preferably located at the rear of the TV. Moreover, when so mounted and plugged the multimedia sources are preferably visually concealed nonetheless to being readily accessible. For example, a DVD player is selectively positioned for the insertion and extraction of DVDs at, most commonly, the. rear sides or rear top of the TV. For example, tuners or Internet adapters are selectively positioned for connection of any of an antenna, or a cable box, or a satellite box, or the Internet. For example a wireless network module, or a camera multiplexor, is positioned for wireless communication with one or more security cameras, or a wireless network. In simple terms, nonetheless that each multimedia source will interchangeably physically mount in any of a number of selectable concealed positions, full functional access is preserved, and even promoted.

The present invention still further contemplates a universal electrical interface between multimedia sources of all types and a TV.

The present invention yet still further contemplates that this universal electrical interface is particularly supported by a single, special, bi-directional signal and power cable. In this cable some, radio frequency (RF), signals are preferably shielded, and are more preferably in and by certain pairs, and triplets, of signal lines. In this cable the identify of a plugged multimedia source — of which there are many types — is preferably carried upon but one single signal line.

1. The nature, and the benefits, of the modular system in accordance with the present invention

The diverse multimedia players used in accordance with the present invention can optionally be adapted to exhibit full functionality, and to present all normal cable and control interfaces, when not plug connected to a compatible TV, or when cabled to a non-compatible TV. However, the system of the present invention si so sweeping in scope that it is normally neither required nor desired that these diverse multimedia players should be used otherwise than mounted and plugged to a compatible TV, especially in that (1) such mounting and plugging may with remarkable speed and ease, and with no skill required, and (2) after plugged connection all control is integrated with the TV..

In the system of the present invention for the direct mounting and plugged connection of (1) TVs (both with and without tuners) and (2) diverse peripheral devices, the devices become each of (1) firmly mounted, (2) correctly and reliably electrically connected, and, most preferably, (3) fully independently controllable (in the manner conventional to, and established by, the particular device). When these diverse devices are mounted and electrically connected at the rear of the TV, they are out of sight of the TV viewer. Nonetheless to so being out of sight, the devices provide all necessary physical access such as, most notably, access to load and unload DVDs and/or VHS cassettes (from appropriate devices). Indeed, such access is both ready and convenient.

The system of the present invention thus promotes a TV viewing system that is, nonetheless to being extremely versatile in its components and its functions, substantially devoid pf any clutter, and both "clean" and elegant. This is true even if the TV viewing screen is attached to a wall: no messy accumulation of connected devices and connecting cables will be seen below the TV.

As well as the benefits of compactness, and visual concealment of, most normally, all but the television screen, the system of the present invention accords modularity. A TV may be initially purchased with no accessory save at least one tuner. Diverse peripherals such as DVD players, videotape players, and wireless interfaces may all be added later. Any required repair is modular. Selected ones of the attached peripherals may be ungraded, or substituted, without any necessity of replacing the TV, or the other peripherals.

2. Motivation for, and Philosophy of. the Present Invention

The present invention deals with the modern, circa 2006, proliferation of devices suitably interfaced to a television, particularly a television having any of a flat screen and/or a High Definition Television (HDTV) tuner. The goal of the present invention is to establish one or more physical and/or electrical and/or optical interfaces to a modern, high performance, flat screen TV, upon which interfaces expansion may reasonably be based.

The TV is, and will likely remain, the central appliance for home entertainment and viewing just as the computer is the central appliance for modern information work. It is known to integrate certain sources of information, such as optical disk drives, into preexisting slots within the cabinets of computers, where they are thereafter accessed under software control of the computer operating system. Nonetheless to this integration, there are literally hundreds of different computer appliances, and most such connect to the computer by cabling, such as the Universal Serial Bus (USB). Likewise, a number of different devices connect to televisions. Any of (1) a multimedia player, such as a DVD player, (2) a local or broadcast television receiver, (3) a cable television receiver (a "cable box"), or (3) an Internet television receiver (most normally a card within a computer circa 2005) may variously, and at various times, supply television signals - both analog and digital - to a television. The proliferation around a television of different boxes sourcing (or, equivalently, relaying and/or converting) television signals is already excessive. It is not desirable to create such a cable-connected "mess" of boxes around a television as is commonly presently the case with computer workstations.

The present invention is based on the recognition that, just as a backplane bus may provide a common framework for the electrical connection of many devices such as optical disk drives to a computer motherboard, so also are many of the devices suitably connected to a modern television producing the same signals passing through the same standard connectors. Namely, for communication of HDTV, the signals Y, Pb and Pr and still other signal as do normally pass through RCA-type plug/jack connectors may instead be combined within a single cable.

3. A combination television and multimedia player

Therefor, in accordance with one of its aspects the present invention is embodied in a combination television and multimedia player. hi the combination a television ("TV"), independently operative for showing television, has at least one location into which a multimedia player may be directly physically mounted and electrically plugged so as to receive power from the television while supplying a television signal to the television. To this TV is physically mounted and electrically plug connected a multimedia player, independently operative for playing multimedia, so as to receive power from the television, and so as to supply a television signal to the television.

The television of the combination television and multimedia player according to claim 1 wherein the television is preferably a flat screen type, and the at least one location is preferably at the rear thereof.

The multimedia player is preferably a Digital Versatile Disk player.

The televison of the combination television and multimedia player according preferably has, presents and defines a plurality of locations at which and to which the multimedia player can be mounted and directly electrically plugged.

Multimedia players requiring insertion and removal of media can be located and oriented at selected ones of the television's plurality of locations so that media may be so inserted and withdrawn to and from a side, or to and from a top, of the television. The multimedia player of the combination television and multimedia player preferably electrically plug connects to the TV though but one single cable supplying (1) both power and at least one control signal from the TV to the multimedia player, and (2) audio/video signals from the multimedia player to the TV.

4. A modular entertainment system

In accordance with another of its aspects the present invention is embodied in a modular entertainment system.

The preferred system includes (1) a television, independently operative for showing television, having a two or more locations into each which a source of television signals may be physically mounted and electrically plugged so as to receive power from the television while supplying a television signal to the television, and (2) two or more sources of television signals each suitably physically mounted and electrically plug connected to the television at any of the television's plurality of locations so as to there receive power from the television, and so to supply a television signal to the television.

In this modular entertainment system the television is preferably a flat screen type; and its two or more locations are at its rear

In this modular entertainment system at least one of the two or more sources of television signal is preferably drawn from a group consisting of a Digital Versatile Disk player, a videotape player, a broadcast TV tuner and receiver, a cable TV receiver, a satellite TV receiver, an Internet television converter-tuner; and a security camera multiplexor. Still more preferably, both the two or more sources of television signals are drawn from this group.

In the modular entertainment system according each of the two or more sources of television signals connects to the television, and vice versa, through a cable that is universal, and common to all sources. This universal cable preferably includes conductors carrying power and ground; a plurality of conductors carrying audio and video signals from a connected source of television signals to a connected television, and at least one conductor carrying a control signal from a connected television to a connected source of television signals.

In the modular system, multimedia players requiring insertion and removal of media can be located and oriented at selected ones of the television's two or more locations so that media may be so inserted and withdrawn to and from a side, or to and from a top, of the television..

The universal cable further preferably includes at least one conductor carrying a signal identifying a source of television signals to the television. Still more preferably the universal cable has but one conductor carrying a signal identifying a connected source of television signals to the connected television.

4. A multi-conductor interface cable

In yet accordance with another of its aspects the present invention is embodied in a multi-conductor universal interface cable between a television and a multimedia player.

The cable includes conductors carrying power and ground, a plurality of conductors carrying audio and video signals from the multimedia player to the television, and at least one conductor carrying a control signal from the television to the multimedia player.

The cable preferably further includes at least one conductor carrying a signal identifying the multimedia player to the television.

These and other aspects and attributes of the present invention will become increasingly clear upon reference to the following drawings and accompanying specification.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring particularly to the drawings for the purpose of illustration only and not to limit the scope of the invention in any way, these illustrations follow:

Figure 1 is a diagrammatic view of preferred embodiment of the modular, integrated, television and multimedia system in accordance with the present invention where the television serves to present education and entertainment programming derived from various plug- and cable-connected sources of television signals.

Figure 2, consisting of Figures 2a through 2d, are diagrammatic representations showing how a modular source of television signals is both cabled and plugged to a television by a universal cable connecting to universal plugs, and how this modular source of television signals is later enclosed with the volume of the television, and within the system of the present invention previously seen in Figure 1. Figure 3 is an electrical schematic block diagram of the system of the present invention previously seen in Figure 1.

Figure 4a is a diagram of a universal cable serving to connect, among other devices, a security module to a television base module in the system of the present invention, and Figure 4b is a cross-sectional view of the same cable showing that some conductors transmitting high frequency video signals are shielded.

Figure 5, consisting of Figures 5a through 5d, is a Table listing the organization and shielding of signals carried upon the forty-four (44) pins of the universal interface cable, called an "MGI Versabus" cable, previously seen in Figure 4, which cable serves to connect a security module, and other modules, to the television base module within the system of the present invention.

Figure 6, consisting of Figures 6a through 6c, is a Table listing the names and the types of signals carried upon the forty-four (44) pins of same universal interface cable, called an "MGI Versabus" cable, previously seen in Figures 4 and 5, which cable serves to connect a security module, and other modules, to the television base module within the system of the present invention.

Figure 7 is a diagrammatic representation of a plug panel upon the back of the television module of the system of the present invention previously seen in Figure 1.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following description is of the best modes presently contemplated for the carrying out of the invention. This description is made for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the invention, and is not to be taken in a limiting sense. The scope of the invention is best determined by reference to the appended claims.

Although specific embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the drawings, it should be understood that such embodiments are by way of example only and are merely illustrative of but a small number of the many possible specific embodiments to which the principles of the invention may be applied. Various changes and modifications obvious to one skilled in the art to which the invention pertains are deemed to be within the spirit, scope and contemplation of the invention as .further defined in the appended claims.

1. Discussion of the Implementation and the Rationale of the System of the Present Invention

The present invention contemplates adaptations and modifications to both the physical and electrical interface of both (1) a television, particularly a flat screen and/or High Definition TV, and (2) diverse devices producing television signals, such as any of (2a) multimedia players and more particularly Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) players, (2b) TV receivers, including local wireless receivers and cable receivers and satellite receivers, and/or (3) internet television converters. Each (2) device producing television signals is typically both (a) compact and portable - as is norm circa 2006, and (b) completely normally functional. Each device can be conventionally made with all normal plug jacks, and supplied with all normal cables, as permit of its conventional connection to, and use with, a conventional television, hi this case the device has one extra, 44 pin, connector for use in the system of the present invention. Preferably, however, each devices has but a minimal case, and is made to be electrically connected by but one single cable (which carries both power and signals) to a compatible television in accordance with the present invention.

Most of the adaptations and modifications to both the television, and to the connected devices sourcing television signals, within the present invention are primarily structural, and occur to both physical mountings and to selected electrical plugs/jacks and the like, of both the television and the TV-signal-sourcing devices. These primarily structural modifications permit a TV-signal-sourcing device — such as, by way of example, a DVD player — to both physically mount and electrically interface — most preferably including by hot plugging — through a short cable to the television.

However, some adaptations and modifications are made to the electrical signals between the television and the TV-signal-sourcing device. Changes are made so that the TV-signal-sourcing device, for example a DVD player, will be powered from the television. Normally this power is carried upon the same cable that also carries signals. Further changes are made in the electrical interface so that the TV may identify which specific peripheral is connected.

Remote control is integrated with the TV. A separate control screen on the TV is normally established for each remotely-controlled peripheral device. For example, the remote control unique to a DVD player or common other TV-signal-sourcing device is integrated with the remote control for the TV. In this manner full normal remote control of the DVD player may be realized through the television when the DVD player is plugged to the television.

Thus both the compatible and complimentary (1) television and (2) TV-signal- sourcing device(s) retain their complete normal functionality, and their (2) (remote) controllability, when they are mounted and plugged to each other. Sometimes the TV will also connect normally, via cables, to still other devices. However, the system of the present invention for plugged connection of (1) TVs and (2) TV-signal-producing devices, greatly simplifies and speeds user hook-up. Connection reliability is improved. The TV normally has multiple receptacles for accepting multiple TV-signal-producing devices, and any device, even if producing TV signals to a different standard than other simultaneously connected devices, may connect to any receptacle. Devices of different sizes and volumes (below a maximum) may be accommodated.

Perhaps most importantly to the present invention, the visual disarray of both(l) powering, and (2) cable connecting, increasing numbers of increasing types of diverse signal-producing devices to a television is substantially eliminated. Most or even all connected devices fit behind the television, and within its volume. Thus the complexity, and the jumble, that often attends the deployment and the use of multiple plugged TV-signal- producing devices is eliminated. The television — especially if a flat screen LCD, plasma or equivalent modern type, and even if hung on the wall — thus retains the same, clean, look it had the day it was purchased.

The "price" of all this simplification, and elegance, is prior preparation. (Only modest additional economic cost is incurred). The manufacturer of the TV will of course be desirous of providing certain TV-signal-sourcing units, such as DVD players, that are fully compatible with the system of the present invention, and with conforming TVs of its own manufacture. Less obvious is the fact that same manufacturer and the consuming public may bring pressures for non-conforming devices to conform. Consider: a non-conforming device may always be normally connected by cables to a non-conforming TV, or even to a conforming TV if appropriate receptacles or receptacle jacks - normally as are separate from the quick-plugged connectors - are both provided and used. However, a manufacturer of a TV having receptacles in accordance with the present invention (onto which TV-signal- sourcing devices may be plugged) can offer a "jig" that permits non-conforming devices to be adapted to the "quick-plug" receptacles. Normally this is so simple as (1) a physical chassis conforming to the receptacle mounting, having all plug/jacks, and attaching to the non-conforming device, with (2) provision for using the device's normal hook-up cables inside the jig to "reposition" all pertinent electrical signal connections, (2) a power adapter plug internal to the jig into which plugs the normal power cord of the device, and, if necessary, (3) an optic fiber, or light pipe, to bring an optical control signal relayed though the television from a point whereat it appears in the receptacle around to, most normally, the front of the (jig-adapted) device, where the fiber is held with, most normally, adhesive tape. This jig is the trouble, and the added expense, the owner of a non-conforming device must go to in order to prevent that such device should set alongside, above or below the television in perpetuity, cables showing. Once the manufacturer of the non-conforming device recognizes that its customer is spending money (on the jig) to make conforming the device — which money could have gone to the device manufacturer — a successor conforming device will likely appear.

Still less obvious is that yet another jig can substantially adapt a non-conforming television to the system of the present invention! A jig capable of receiving TV-signal- sourcing devices in accordance with the present invention attaches to, or is somehow held in position behind, the non-conforming television. Since a conforming device mates with this jig without use of cable, the normal cables accompanying the device may be used to connect the jig to the (non-conforming) television. Power must normally be run from a wall socket to the jig via a provided cord. Since the non-conforming TV does not relay an optical control signal from its front-surface IR receiver to any back-surface IR emitter, the ability to remotely control the TV-signal-sourcing device is normally lost. However, even this may sometimes be arranged by the strategic use of small mirrors. Once a manufacturer of a non- conforming TV recognizes that its customer is spending money (on a gig) so as to get one or more TV-signal-sourcing devices and their associated cables into concealed connected positions behind the TV, the manufacturer will perhaps decide that it is better to adopt the universal mounting and connection system of the present invention.

As a final exercise, it may be imagined how use of both the first and the second jigs can, in combination, permit of the advantages of the present invention on televisions, and on TV-signal producing devices, not initially manufactured in accordance with the invention. Should much such activity transpire, all manufacturers of non-conforming televisions and devices are likely to recognize consumer desire for a higher degree in integration in television viewing than has heretofore been present in, for example, component audio or personal computer systems. The present invention thus ultimately addresses the question: "How many cables do owners want to connect to their televisions?" Based on the present popular revulsion to the many cable connections required between some computers and computer peripherals, the inventor finds that the number of cables desired is considerably less than the number of cables required without use of the present invention. Now the proliferation of diverse devices that can only be but cumbersomely connected to a personal computer has, to some extent, been dealt with by wireless local area networks. But, for reasons of interference, signal distortion, cost and overlap, it is not tenable to wireless connect diverse source of television signals to a single television. Thus the present invention, which still uses cables, but standardizes the cabled and plugged connection between TV-signal-producing devices and televisions, and reduces the "mess" that is normally created in realizing these connections..

2. Physical Organization of a Common Embodiment of the Present Invention

Therefore, in accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a TV-signal- producing device, for example a DVD player, preferably physically mounts, and simultaneously electrically connects, to the television in any of a number of positions so as to be conveniently accessible for the loading and unloading of DVDs, while the television likewise receives the DVD player in any position. Most preferably the television is a relatively larger flat screen TV while a relatively smaller DVD player fits at any one of three predetermined positions all on the back of the TV so that an owner/user of both may enter and remove DVDs from the top, side, or bottom of the combined unit.

In greater detail, in accordance with the present invention a television — a device not generally known for having pluggable, let alone hot pluggable, functional assemblies or sub- assemblies — has and presents multiple differently-directionally-oriented cavities, or rails, into or onto each such cavity, or rail, a media player may be inserted or slid. The media player, normally a DVD player, becomes both removably (1) physically retained, and (2) electrically connected, to the television. Remote control of the DVD player becomes integrated with the remote control of the television. The captive DVD player selectively supplies to the TV (under this user remote control integrated with remote control of the TV) selected programming material that is upon DVDs inserted within the DVD player.

The TV is most preferably of a flat screen type, being in the substantial shape of a parallelepiped body of thickness that is small relative to its width and its height. The preferred flat screen TV may optionally be, among other placements, hung on a wall. The retaining slots, or rails, are most preferably three (3) in number, and are all located at the rear of the TV in positions respectively oriented towards the top, one side, and the bottom of the TV. Each slot, or rail, may accept a media player, normally a DVD player having a relatively smaller parallelopiped body, of complimentary mechanical and electrical form. Once mounted, each DVD player accepts recorded media, or DVDs, into a slot disposed to the periphery of the TV. By this manner of construction one only DVD player, or at least the turntable mechanism thereof, may be located at any of the preferred three locations, and will thereafter permit an owner/user of the TV to load, and to remove, DVDs for purpose of viewing from a particular physical location, and at a particular orientation, that is most convenient to the owner/user.

3. Electrical Organization of a Preferred Embodiment of the Present Invention

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a TV-signal-producing device, for example a DVD player, that is mounted at the back of a TV is (1) plug connected for electrical power and signals, and, optionally, (2) optically connected for receipt of, most commonly, infrared optical control signals. By its physical mounting on rails, or within a cavity, the DVD player is positioned and aligned so that its several power and ground connector parts - all female (as is normal) to prevent damage when the DVD player is transported - are urged into mating electrical contact with complimentary male connector parts when the DVD player is mounted.

Normal alternating current (a.c.) power flows, preferably selectively, from the TV to the DVD player. The remote control of the TV permits selection by the TV of a TV-signal- producing device that is connected to any one receptacle, or no such receptacle or device. Only the selected receptacle is powered "UP" for so long as selected, and the other receptacles are powered "DOWN". This selective powering is preferably realized in the TV by conventional small-signal gating control of silicon controlled rectifiers (SCRs), as is common for solid state electronic devices. Powering "UP" a receptacle where no device is present is of no consequence. (Clever persons may learn to remotely control a low wattage light of the like by making non-standard, non-approved use of this receptacle function.) If the DVD player itself is desired to be powered "ON" (or "OFF") then the normal remote control for the DVD player is normally used.

The selection of a particular receptacle also enables that infrared light signals received at the front of the TV should, as well as being potentially used to control the TV when converted to electrical signals and interpreted, also be directly re-converted to infrared optical signals and selectively emitted at all receptacles. Since only the device - by example, the DVD player - at the (single) selected receptacle is prospectively powered "ON", only it can respond to these signals. There is some possibility that both the TV and the DVD player will respond to the same infrared signals, whether generated and transmitted by the remote control of either device. An integrated controller, and control scheme, prevents this. However, if a TV and a conflicting device not from the same manufacturer are in use, then the TV remote control can be used to temporarily disable remote control of the television — entering the TV into a "STANDBY" mode — while continuing re-transmission of received infrared control signals to the DVD player. This TV "STANDBY" mode - which does not affect the presentation of television signals — will persist until exited by a "reverse standby" control code, at which time infrared control of the TV will be fully enabled while any path to effect control of the DVD player will be interrupted. Thus while the television is in "STANDBY" only the DVD player may be controlled, and when the television is removed from "STANDBY" only the television may be controlled.

The remaining, TV signal, ports of the several receptacles are likewise gated and controlled. Namely, TV input signals will be accepted, and gated into the TV, only from a selected receptacle (or selected cable-connected device such as are commonly labeled "channel A", "channel B", etc.). In rare cases, and on TVs especially so enabled, it is possible to connect at a receptacle a television signal recording, as opposed to playing, device. This means that the TV is receiving signals, whether or not contemporaneously displayed, from some source or sources, possibly a receptacle-connected player, while another device, again possibly connected to a receptacle, is recording these same signals. (Note that no time shifting is involved, at least directly.) This means that possibly plural receptacles are both powered and enabled for the communication of TV signals, signals being received from a player device and transmitted to a recorder device. Handling of this situation wherein one stream of television from one source is recorded while another signal is watched is commonly presently, circa 2005, encountered, and addressed in a time-shifting video recorder, commonly known by the brand "Tivo" ("Tivo" is a registered trademark of Ti vo, Incorporated).. However, the flexibility as to what source (or sources) can be recorded, and what source can be viewed, is a function of the number of cables connected to the Tivo unit. Obviously versatility comes at the high price of cable congestion, and control complexity.

The inventor finds that the television itself is a better, and more logical place, to make various selections of video to be watched, video to be recorded, or video to be both watched and recorded. In accordance with extensions of the principles of the present invention, all the possibly many devices that are connected to a television for playing and for recording television signals may all be plug connected at common receptacles.

4. A First Embodiment of the System of the Present Invention

A diagrammatic view of preferred embodiment of a modular, television-based, wireless display surveillance and/or security system 1 in accordance with the present invention is shown in Figure 1. A television 11, preferably of the flat screen type, is shown in rear view with left and right access panels (later seen in Figure 2) removed.

A first modular unit 13 is physically mounted to the television 11 at the indicated position, and is electrically connected to plug jack 121 thereof by a standard, universal, cable 17. The first modular unit may be any of (1) a DVD player, (2) a DVR, (3) an interface to the Internet, (4) a wireless interface module, (5) a security module (wirelessly connecting remote security cameras), and/or (6) still other modules.

There is yet another modular unit mounting and connection position on the television 11, as illustrated by the second modular unit 15, which is particularly illustrated to be, for sake of explanation of the invention, a security module 15. Thus either one, or two, (6) security modules may optionally be connected to the television 11, and may occupy either the illustrated positions of the first modular unit 13 or the second modular unit 15. (Other types of mountable and connectable modular units may likewise be mounted and connected in the positions, and in quantities either one or two, as required or desired.) The illustrated second modular unit 15 in the particular form of a security module 15 is again connected to the television 11 by a universal cable 17 (as will be further discussed in conjunction with Figures 3 and 4) which, in the case of the security module 15, connects to television plug jack 122.

The television 11 also presents an array of substantially standard connectors at its connector panel 14. (This panel 14 is shown in greater detail in Figure 7.) It may thus already be recognized that the connectable modules 13, 15 ~ of which module 13 is by example a DVD player and module 15 is by example a security module — are substantially integrated with the television 11. Namely, these modules not only fit within the volume of television 11 (as will become more clear in Figure 2), but also electrically integrate with the television 11 in a manner not requiring nor using the standard plug jack connectors that are upon the connector panel 14. It was through the plug jacks of this connector panel 14 that, in previous surveillance and security systems, video surveillance signals (among other signals) might be connected to the television 11. (They may still be so connected to the television 11 in the system 1 of the present invention, but the properties of (1) physical, and (2) control, integration within the present invention are then lost.)

The security module 15 communicates, preferably wirelessly as illustrated, to up to four (4) wireless surveillance or security cameras 191-197. Both the security module 15 and the cameras 191-197 are normally always powered "ON". Since the television 11 may mount and connect up to two (2) security modules 15 each of which can itself connect to up to four cameras 191-197, the system 1 of the present invention may use and connect from one (1) to eight (8) total cameras.

A series of diagrammatic representations showing how, by way of example, the DVD player module 13, or another module, may be plugged to the television by the universal cable 17 is shown in Figure 2, consisting of Figures 2a through 2d. hi a first step illustrated in Figure 2a a rear lid, or cover 111 is slid open. A module of any type, including the DVD player module 13, is inserted and connected via the cable 17, is illustrated in the second and third steps of Figures 2b and 2c. Finally the cover 111 is restored, as illustrated in the fourth and final step of Figure 2d.

Clearly only minimal sophistication is required by the user to establish or upgrade the function(s) of his/her television 11, including in turning it into part of a modular system 1 by the simple addition of a security module 15 and one or more wireless cameras 191-197. There are no externally visible units, cables or connectors. There is absolutely no clutter. Should it ever be necessary to seek repair for the system 1, if the television 11 is still operative, likely only the DVD player module 13, the security module 15 and/or one(s) of the cameras 191-197 need be repaired or exchanged, a simple task normally accomplishable by the user-owner.

When either of both of the DVD player module 13, or the security module 15, are electrically connected to the television 11 each by its own universal cable 17 (all shown in Figures 1 and 2), it is both automatically identified to the television 11. Control of the functions of each module 13, 15 is integrated, replete with on-screen displays, with the control, normally and preferably by use of an infrared controller, of the television 11.

The manner as to how this is done is shown in Figure 3. Figure 3 is an electrical schematic block diagram of the system 1 of the present invention that was previously seen in Figure 1. The television 11, DVD module 13, security module 15 (as well as optional other modules), and the cable 17 and its plug jacks 121, 122 may each readily be located. Importantly to the automated identification of each module, consider the identification of security module 15. It produces a signal of .7 to 1.0 volts on a particular signal line and pin - signal line "Module Identity Signal" and pin 33 as may be seen in the Table of Figure 6c - that is detected by an analog-to-digital converters ADl or AD2 (as the case may be) within the television 11. This signal is of a different voltage level for modules of other types (as indicated in the Table of Figure 6c).

The granularity, or step- wise accuracy, of the analog-to-digital converters within the TV 11 are such that they will each produce a unique digital signal output - indicative of a connected security module 15 - when, and only when, so connected to a security module 15. This digital signal output serves, via a conventional table look-up circuit, to branch the microprocessor-based control of the television 11 to, when a security function is otherwise selected at the television's hand-held remote controller (not shown), to branch the television 11 into an on-screen display of available surveillance/security functions. Other modules are identified likewise.

Certain screen displays then appearing on television 11 (not shown) re presented during use to access, and to receive the video inputs of, a particular connected module. Higher-level display screens are first accessed, and then subsequent screens are selected by remote control.

The physical form of a universal cable 17 serving to connect, among other devices, a security module 15 to a base TV module 11 is shown in Figure 4, consisting of Figure 4a and Figure 4b. Figure 4b shows the locations of certain elements of the cable 17, which elements are identified by the corresponding numbers within the table of Figure5, consisting of Figures 5a through 5d. The showing of Figure 5 is that some 23 of the total 44 pins connect shielded signal lines, or the shields of these signal lines. Finally, the detail construction of every wire both power and ground, and the connection of every shield, within the cable 17 is given for all 44 of the cable pins in the Table of Figure 6, consisting of Figures 6a through 6c. Between the pictorial diagram of Figure 4, and the intricate connections of the Tables of Figures 5 and 6, it may quickly be seen that many signals are shielded, and some signals are so shielded individually with one core shield, or coaxial, cable, while some signals are shielded pairwise within (contained) two-core, or biaxial, shielded cable. The shielding of the many radio frequency (RF) signals is an intricate matter, and the directions of Figures 4, 5 and 6 are precise, and usefully followed.

Still further understanding of the universal interface between the television base module 11 and, among other modules, the security module 15 that realized by the universal interface cable 17 may be gained by study of the listing of the signals within the Table of Figure 6, consisting of Figures 6a through 6c Both power and ground, and signals both from and to the television module, may all be located. Selections made in response to the screen display cause the television base module 11 to send a signal upon the UART interface of signal lines/pins 31, 32 and 34 as do cause the security module 15 to gate the video signal of a selected camera 191- 197 (shown in Figures 1 and 3) to the television 11, where it is displayed. Thus the control of the display of surveillance and/or security video is completely integrated with normal control of the television 11 for the presentation of educational and entertainment video from diverse source.

Thus the Table of Figure 6 lists the signals carried upon the forty-four (44) pins of the universal interface cable 17, called an "MGI Versabus" cable. This cable serves not only to connect a DVD module 13 and/or a security module 17 to the television 11, but also still other modules. This universal plugged connection by but a single universal cable is part of the present invention.

The signals carried upon the "MGI Versabus" cable 17 may be usefully compared with the signals normally brought to the exterior of a high performance television.. A diagrammatic representation of the plug panel 14 upon the back of the television module 11 of the system 1 of the present invention - all previously seen in Figure 1 - is shown at an exploded view, and expanded scale, in Figure 7.

In accordance with the preceding explanation, various alterations and adaptations of the system of the present invention will be obvious to a practitioner of the digital video system arts. The cameras 191-197 could have alternatively been connected to the security module 15 by video cables. Provision could be made for more than one DVD player module 15, more than one security module 15, or more than four cameras 191-197 per security module. Surveillance or security images could be caused upon the detection of certain conditions to automatically appear on the screen of television 11, and/or several images could be made to sequence — all as is standard in video surveillance and security systems.

Other, and different, types of modules serving as sources of both video and/or audio signals could be made modular, and connected via the universal scheme and connector cable of the present invention.

The system of the present invention will be recognized to primarily be directed to harmonious packaging of system component, full functional integration, and, most of all, ease of system assembly and use by its owner-user. Accordingly, the following claims should be interpreted broadly, and not solely in accordance with that particular systems embodiment within which the present invention has been taught.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A combination television and multimedia player CHARACTERIZED IN THAT a television, independently operative for showing television, has at least one location into which a multimedia player may be directly physically mounted and electrically plugged so as to receive power from the television while supplying a television signal to the television; and a multimedia player, independently operative for playing multimedia, is suitable to physically mount and to electrically plug to the television at the television's least one location so as to receive power from the television, and so as to supply a television signal to the television.

2. The combination television and multimedia player according to claim 1 FURTHER CHARACTERIZED IN THAT the television is a flat screen type, and the at least one location is at the rear thereof.

3. The combination television and multimedia player according to claim 1 FURTHER CHARACTERIZED IN THAT the multimedia player is a Digital Versatile Disk player.

4. The combination television and multimedia player according to claim 1 FURTHER CHARACTERIZED IN THAT the television has, presents and defines a plurality of locations at which and to which the multimedia player can be mounted and directly electrically plugged.

5. The combination television and multimedia player according to claim 4 FURTHER CHARACTERIZED IN THAT the multimedia players requiring insertion and removal of media can be located and oriented at selected ones of the television's plurality of locations so that media may be so inserted and withdrawn from a side, or a top, of the television.

6. The combination television and multimedia player according to claim 1 FURTHER CHARACTERIZED IN THAT the multimedia player electrically plug connects to the TV though but one single cable supplying both power and control signals from the TV to the multimedia player, and also audio/video signals from the multimedia player to the TV.

7. A modular entertainment system CHARACTERIZED IN THAT a television, independently operative for showing television, has a plurality of locations into each which a source of television signals may be physically mounted and electrically plugged so as to receive power from the television while supplying a television signal to the television; and a plurality of sources of television signals are each suitably physically mounted and electrically plug connected to the television at any of the television's plurality of locations so as to there receive power from the television, and so as to supply a television signal to the television.

8. The modular entertainment system according to claim 7 FURTHER CHARACTERIZED IN THAT the television is a flat screen type; and the television's plurality of locations are at its rear.

9. The modular entertainment system according to claim 7 FURTHER CHARACTERIZED IN THAT at least one of the plurality of sources of television signal is drawn from a group consisting of a Digital Versatile Disk player; a videotape player; a broadcast TV tuner and receiver; a cable TV receiver; a satellite TV receiver; an Internet television converter-tuner; and a security camera multiplexor.

10. The modular entertainment system according to claim 7 FURTHER CHARACTERIZED IN THAT the plurality of sources of television signal are drawn from a group consisting of a Digital Versatile Disk player; a videotape player; a broadcast TV tuner and receiver; a cable TV receiver; a satellite TV receiver; an Internet television converter-tuner; and a security camera multiplexor.

11. The modular entertainment system according to claim 7 FURTHER CHARACTERIZED IN THAT at least one of the plurality of sources of television signals is a multimedia player; and the multimedia player requiring insertion and removal of media can be located and oriented at a selected one of the television's plurality of locations so that media may be so inserted and withdrawn to and from a side, or to and from a top, of the television

12. The modular entertainment system according to claim FURTHER CHARACTERIZED IN THAT each of the plurality of sources of television signals connects to the television, and vice versa, through a cable that is universal, and common to all sources.

13. The modular entertainment system according to claim 12 FURTHER CHARACTERIZED IN THAT the universal cable includes conductors carrying power and ground; a plurality of conductors carrying audio and video signals from a connected source of television signals to a connected television; and at least one conductor carrying a control signal from a connected television to a connected source of television signals.

14. The modular entertainment system according to claim 12 FURTHER CHARACTERIZED IN THAT the universal cable includes at least one conductor carrying a signal identifying a source of television signals to the television.

15. The modular entertainment system according to claim 12 FURTHER CHARACTERIZED IN THAT the universal cable includes: one conductor carrying a signal identifying a connected source of television signals to the connected television.

16. A multi-conductor universal interface cable between a television and a multimedia player CHARACTERIZED IN THAT

: conductors carry power and ground from the television to the multimedia player; a plurality of conductors carry audio and video signals from the multimedia player to the television; and at least one conductor carries a control signal from the television to the multimedia player.

17. The multi-conductor universal interface cable according to claim 16 FURTHER CHARACTERIZED IN THAT: at least one conductor carries a signal identifying the multimedia player to the television.

18. The multi-conductor universal interface cable according to claim 17 FURTHER CHARACTERIZED IN THAT one only conductor carries the signal identifying the multimedia player to the television.