WO2009089510A1

WO2009089510A1 - Trans-operable remote controller

Info

Publication number: WO2009089510A1
Application number: PCT/US2009/030682
Authority: WO
Inventors: Zachery Lavalley; Satayan Mahajan; Arun Mehta; Satyender Mahajan; Cory Costantino; Nabori Santiago
Original assignee: Motus Corporation
Priority date: 2008-01-11
Filing date: 2009-01-09
Publication date: 2009-07-16

Abstract

Embodiments of a trans-operable remote controller are described. The controller can be comprised of plural remote-control units. The units can be operated in one or more relative physical operating configurations, e.g., joined together, placed in proximity, separated, moved substantially synchronously, moved non-synchronously, moved substantially counter-synchronously, moved semi-synchronously or certain combinations thereof, to provide one or more modes of operation of a system adapted for remote operation. In various embodiments, the plural modes of operation associated with corresponding plural physical configurations of the remote-control units differ from each other. The trans-operable remote controller can be used to operate electronic instruments, video games, remotely-controlled vehicles, robotic systems, and computer systems.

Description

Trans-Operable Remote Controller

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED U.S. APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 61/020,574, filed on 11 January 2008, which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The embodiments described herein are generally related to the field of remote- control operation of advanced electronic or electro-mechanical systems. In particular, the embodiments herein relate to a trans-operable remote controller.

BACKGROUND

[0003] The introduction and widespread implementation of microprocessor technology enabled a transformation of mechanical and electromechanical systems to increasingly sophisticated microprocessor-based remotely-operated systems. As an example in the field of gaming, once popular hands-on games, e.g., pool, bowling, pinball, etc., have given way to currently-popular video games that can be operated on personal computers, hand-held digital electronics, and on stand-alone video-gaming systems combined with television displays. Advances in microprocessing and video-display technologies have enabled greater complexity and realization of the video games, remote-control models, remotely-operated instruments, and remotely-operated systems.

[0004] Improvements in user interfaces for games have accompanied the advances in game technology over time, e.g., a stick, a ball, push-buttons (for pinball), a computer keyboard, a joystick, a joystick with electronic buttons, tethered game controllers, wireless game controllers, camera based tracking systems, and recently motion-sensitive controllers. Sophisticated controllers can provide a more dynamic and realistic interactive experience for an operator of a game system or any system adapted for remote operation, and such controllers can influence the marketability of the gaming product or system.

SUMMARY

[0005] In various embodiments, a trans-operable remote controller comprises plural hand- operated remote control units adapted for interactive operation in one or more relative physical operating configurations wherein the one or more operating configurations provide corresponding one or more operational modes of a system adapted for remote operation. In certain embodiments, the inventive controller comprises a hand-operated remote-control unit adapted for interactive operation with one or more additional hand-operated remote-control units in one or more relative physical operating configurations wherein the one or more operating configurations provide corresponding one or more operational modes of a system adapted for remote operation.

[0006] The inventive embodiments include an apparatus comprising a first control unit, wherein the first control unit is adapted for sensing when it is proximate to a second control unit, and at least one of the units provides electronic indication of at least a proximate or non- proximate configuration. In various embodiments, the first control unit independently and substantially simultaneously provides complementary remote operation of a system in a first mode of operation when in a non-proximate and non-synchronous configuration with a second control unit, and the control unit provides complementary remote operation of the system in a second mode of operation when in a proximate and synchronous configuration with a second control unit.

[0007] An embodiment of the trans-operable controller includes a controller comprising An apparatus comprising a first control unit, wherein the first control unit is adapted for being mechanically joined to a second control unit, and at least one of the units provides electronic indication of at least a joined configuration or non-joined configuration. In various embodiments, the control units independently and substantially simultaneously provide complementary remote control of a system in a first mode of operation when in a non-joined configuration, and the control units provide complementary remote control of the system in a second mode of operation when in a joined configuration.

[0008] The inventive embodiments further include a system comprising, an electronic device adapted for remote control, a transceiving unit, a first control unit adapted for sensing when it is in one or more particular operating configurations with respect to a second control unit. At least one of the control units provides electronic indication to the electronic device of at least the one or more particular operating configurations. The system can further include computer code, executable on a processor, to operate the electronic device adapted for remote operation in one or more modes based on or associated with the one or more particular operating configurations.

[0009] Various methods can be employed when operating the inventive controller. In a system adapted for remote operation, a method can comprise receiving data from a first control unit, determining whether to receive data from a second control unit, determining a relative physical operating configuration of the first control unit with respect to a second control unit, executing electronic operation in a first mode of operation when the first unit is in a first operating configuration with respect to a second unit, or executing electronic operation in a second mode of operation when the first unit is in a second operating configuration with respect to a second unit.

[0010] The foregoing and other aspects, embodiments, and features of the present teachings can be more fully understood from the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The skilled artisan will understand that the figures, described herein, are for illustration purposes only. It is to be understood that in some instances various aspects of the invention may be shown exaggerated or enlarged to facilitate an understanding of the invention. In the drawings, like reference characters generally refer to like features, functionally similar and/or structurally similar elements throughout the various figures. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the teachings. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the present teachings in any way.

[0012] FIG. IA depicts an elevation view of an embodiment of a trans-operable remote controller 100 in a joined configuration.

[0013] FIG. IB depicts a perspective view of a first control unit 110 of a trans -operable remote controller.

[0014] FIG. 1C depicts a perspective view of a second control unit 160 of a trans-operable remote controller.

[0015] FIG. ID depicts an embodiment of a trans-operable remote controller 10Od. [0016] FIG. 2 is a block diagram depicting electronic components that can comprise, at least in part, an embodiment of a control unit of a trans-operable remote controller. [0017] FIG. 3A is a block diagram depicting communication between the trans-operable remote controller and a transceiving unit 390 when a first control unit 110 is not proximate and not in substantially synchronous motion with a second control unit 160. [0018] FIG. 3B is a block diagram depicting communication between the trans-operable remote controller and a transceiving unit when a first control unit is proximate and in substantially synchronous motion with a second control unit. [0019] FIG. 3C is a block diagram depicting the communication between the trans- operable remote controller and a transceiving unit when a first control unit is in motion while a second control unit is active but substantially stationary.

[0020] FIG. 3D is a block diagram depicting the communication between the trans- operable remote controller and a transceiving unit when a first control unit is being used and second control unit is not present.

[0021] FIGS. 4A-4C are flow diagrams illustrating embodiments of operational methods for a trans-operable remote controller.

[0022] The features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the detailed description set forth below when taken in conjunction with the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION /. Overview of the Trans-Operable Controller

[0023] In overview and referring to FIGS. IB-ID and FIG. 2, a trans-operable remote controller 100 comprises plural hand-operated remote-control units, e.g., 110, 160, 11Od, 16Od. The units can be operated in one or more relative physical operating configurations, e.g., joined together, placed in proximity, separated, moved substantially synchronously, moved non-synchronously, moved substantially counter-synchronously, moved semi- synchronously or certain combinations thereof, to provide remote-control operation of a system in plural modes of operation. In certain embodiments, the plural modes of operation associated with the physical configurations of the remote-control units differ from each other. Each unit can be independently capable of providing, substantially simultaneously, complementary remote-control operation of a system adapted for remote operation, e.g., a video-game system, an unmanned vehicle, an instrument, a computer, etc. A trans-operable remote controller may be used in a variety of applications including, but not limited to, video gaming, athletic training, e.g. , golf instruction, tennis instruction, batting instruction, medical applications, e.g., rehabilitation, unmanned vehicle operation, remote instrument operation, and computer software operation. An embodiment of circuitry for a trans-operable remote controller 100 is depicted in FIG. 2.

[0024] For the embodiment depicted in FIG. IA, the trans-operable controller 100 can be elongate in shape, and can have an elliptical cross section. It can be grasped by one or both hands when joined. In some embodiments, the first control unit 110 has an upper half 112 and a lower half 114, and the second control unit 160 has an upper half 162 and a lower half 164. In some embodiments, the first control unit 110 and second control unit 160 can be joined end-to-end as depicted at a joining portion 150.

[0025] In certain embodiments, a first remote-control unit 110 and second remote-control unit 160 are shaped as a cylindrical handheld units with elliptical cross sections, as depicted in FIGS. 1B-1C. The unit can have a high gloss finish on the upper half 112, 162 and a matte/textured finish on the lower half 114, 164 surfaces.

[0026] In various embodiments, each control unit 110, 160 can be held in and operated by one hand. In certain embodiments, when held by a one hand, the thumb can hover over the upper half, 112, of the first control unit and may be substantially/naturally positioned to actuate a multiplicity of user-activated electronic controls, e.g., controls 122, 121, 124. Additionally, a protrusion 130 disposed on the lower half of the first control unit can substantially/naturally extend between either the index and middle fingers or the middle and ring fingers, depending on a user's preference, and the remaining lower fingers can wrap around the lower half 114 of the first control unit. Depending on the user's preference, either the index finger alone or the index and middle fingers may actuate a multiplicity of user- activated electronic controls 123 located forward of the protrusion 130. [0027] FIG. IA depicts an embodiment of a trans-operable remote controller 100 in a joined configuration. In various embodiments, the controller 100 comprises a first control unit 110 and a second control unit 160. Each control unit 110, 160 can be operated in a non- joined or non-proximate configuration substantially independently to provide complementary operation of a system in a first mode of operation. The control units 110, 160 can be operated in a proximate or joined configuration to provide operation of a system in a second mode of operation. In certain embodiments, the units can be operated in one or more relative physical configurations, e.g., joined together, placed in proximity, separated, moved synchronously, moved non-synchronously, or certain combinations thereof, to provide remote-control operation of a system in plural modes of operation where distinct modes of operation correspond to distinct physical configurations.

II. Various Aspects of the Trans-Operable Remote Controller

[0028] In some embodiments, the first control unit 110 may include a protruding shape feature 130 to facilitate grasping of the unit. The second control unit 160 may include a protruding shape feature 180 to facilitate grasping of the unit. In some embodiments, either shape feature 130, 180 can be an indentation. User-activated electronic controls, 121, 122, 123, 124, 171, and 173 can be disposed on the upper and lower halves of the controller 100 as depicted. The user-activated electronic controls can include digital switches, push-button switches, trigger switches, digital pads, toggle pad, joystick-like electronic controls, and any combination thereof. Electronic status indicators 142 and 172 can be disposed in various locations on the controller 100. The electronic status indicators can be LED indicators, LCD indicators, LCD displays, or small video screens. The electronic status indicators can further include one or more vibration-inducing mechanisms (not shown) disposed within the units 110 and 160 to provide tactile sensation to the user. Each unit of the controller may further have a compartment and removable access cover 140, 190 for inserting and removing one or more batteries.

[0029] In some embodiments, a second control unit can have substantially the same form as the first control unit and can have substantially similar elements or components. In some embodiments, the second control unit can have a slightly different form, examples of which are as shown in FIG. 1C and FIG. ID. In embodiments where a second control unit is not exactly the same as the first control unit, differences can include, but are not limited to; the control unit's length, electronic controls, shape, location of protrusion, etc. As examples, a second unit 160 can be shorter or longer than a first control unit 110, the first control unit can have a digital pad 121 located on the upper half 112 and the second control unit can have a bidirectional analog joystick 171 located on the upper half 162 or vice versa, the second control unit may not have buttons 122 located aft of the digital pad 121 or joystick 171. In various embodiments, the plural remote controllers interact with one another to provide a multiplicity of operational modes.

[0030] FIG. ID depicts an embodiment of a trans-operable remote controller lOOd having varied design aspects. It will be appreciated that various designs and forms of the trans- operable controller are possible. In some embodiments, the controller 100 may resemble an oblate sphere when in a joined or proximate configuration. In some embodiments, user- activated electronic controls 12Od, 17Od may be disposed at locations on the controller that naturally fall under any or all of the user's fingers when the user holds each control unit. In some embodiments, electronic status indicators 14Od, 19Od may be located on various surfaces of each control unit, e.g., on arching portions 105d as depicted in FIG. ID. In various embodiments, padding or foam 107d is disposed between the grasping portion 102d and arching portion 105d so that a hand can fit snuggly into the open region 103d, and the padding or foam 107d may apply pressure to the back of the hand and/or knuckles. In various embodiments, the padding or foam 107d allows the user to momentarily open the hand without dropping or releasing the controller. For various embodiments of FIG. ID, the control units may be provided in various sizes to conform to hands of various sizes. [0031] Referring now to FIG. 2D, electronic circuitry 200 for an embodiment of a control unit, 110 and/or 160, is depicted in block diagram form. In various embodiments, aspects of technology relating to motion sensing disclosed in U.S. Patent Applications 10/742,264 and 11/133,048, both incorporated herein by reference, are employed in one or both remote- control units. In various aspects, electronic circuitry 200 can comprise a programmable microprocessor or microcontroller 210, which may or may not have memory associated with it, adapted to be in communication with one or more motion sensors 230, multiple user- activated electronic controls 240, an oscillator or clock 250, a vibration-inducing device 270, one or more electronic status indicators 260, an optional configuration sensor 280, and a data transceiver 290. The microprocessor 210, motion sensors 230, user-activated controls 240, oscillator 250, status indicators 260, vibration device 270, configuration sensor 280, and transceiver 290 can all receive power, directly or indirectly, from an on-board battery 220, which is switched into a power-on mode by a user-activated switch 222. In various embodiments, the programmable controller 210 is adapted to receive data from the motion sensors 230, user-activated controls 240 and data transceiver 290, and output data to the transceiver 290. The controller 210 can issue commands to the status indicators 260, vibration-inducing device 270 and data transceiver 290. The oscillator 250 can be located externally to, or internally within, the microprocessor or controller 210, and can regulate the rate of data acquisition, data processing, and data transmission within the electronic circuitry 200.

[0032] FIG. IB depicts an embodiment of a remote-control unit 110 of a trans -operable remote controller in a non-joined solitary configuration. In certain embodiments, the first control unit is capable of operating substantially independently in a first mode of operation as a remote control unit for an electronic device or system adapted for remote operation. In various embodiments, the remote-control unit 110 contains features which adapt it to operate in conjunction with a second unit, or additional units, in such a manner that the plural units can operate in one or more physical configurations and provide one or more modes of remote operation of a system adapted for remote operation. As an example, remote-control unit 110 and second remote-control unit 160 can operate independently from one another in a first physical configuration to provide a first mode of remote operation, and can be joined together at a joining portion 150 to be operated in a second physical configuration to provide a second mode of remote operation. Additionally, the units 110, 160 can be held proximate to one another and moved together substantially synchronously in a third physical configuration to provide a third mode of remote operation. It will be appreciated that additional physical configurations can be utilized to provide additional modes of remote operation. [0033] In certain embodiments, features which adapt a first control unit to work in conjunction with a second control unit and provide multiple modes of operation are mechanical aspects or physical features of the housings of the control units, e.g., an interlocking mechanism disposed at a joining portion 150 of the first control unit, which can provide, at least in part, connectivity of a first control unit to a second control unit. In some embodiments, the interlocking mechanism comprises a trapezoidal-shaped male protrusion running vertically along at least a portion of the aft end of the first control unit. In certain embodiments, a stopper feature is provided at the joining portion to keep a mating feature on a second control unit from sliding all the way past the male protrusion. In some embodiments, the interlocking mechanism can include a latch feature on an opposite end of the protrusion from the stopper feature. The latch feature can mate to a latch-accepting feature on a second control unit, and can substantially lock the two units together mechanically. The locking can be reversible and released by depressing the latch. In some embodiments, a joining mechanism 150 could take the form of magnets placed on or within the housing of a first control unit which attract magnets placed on or within a second control unit's housing. The magnets can substantially join the two units or retain them substantially securely together when placed in close enough proximity to one another. In certain embodiments, a joining mechanism 150 comprises an element disposed at the joining portion, e.g., a protrusion, shaft, hemisphere, or the like, which actuates an electronic component on a second control unit, where the electronic component can provide electronic indication of the configuration of the first control unit with respect to a second control unit. [0034] In certain embodiments, a second control unit has an interlocking mechanism disposed at a joining portion 150 which differs from the first control unit's mechanism but which is complimentary to the first control unit's mechanism. By way of examples, a joining mechanism 150 located on the second control unit 160 can comprise one or more of the following items: a trapezoidal-shaped female feature running vertically along at least a portion of the front end of the second control unit, an electronic component that is actuated by the first control unit wherein the electronic component can provide electronic indication of the configuration of the first control unit with respect to a second control unit, an interlocking mechanism including a magnet of opposite polarity from that in the first control unit which would attract the magnet in the first control unit, a bayonet-type insert, twist and lock mechanism, etc.. In some embodiments the second control unit contains one or more sensors that identify whether the first control unit is joined to, is in proximity to, is moving in substantially synchronous motion, and/or moving in non-synchronous motion with a first control unit. In certain embodiments, data generated by electronic components disposed to detect whether the units are joined or in a particular configuration is transmitted to the system adapted for remote operation. The system adapted for remote operation can process the data to select one of multiple modes of operation.

[0035] Each controlling unit 110, 160 or at least one controlling unit may be adapted for joining at the joining portion 150. In some embodiments, the two units 110, 160 need not be joined but rather placed in close proximity to provide a second mode, or additional modes, of operation of a system. In some embodiments, an electronic status indication is provided indicating within the system under remote operation that the two units 110, 160 are proximate and in substantially synchronous motion or joined, or not proximate or non-joined. As an example, an electronic depression switch may be engaged at the joining portion 150 when the first control unit 110 is joined to the second control unit 160 to provide an electronic status indication. As an additional example, internal motion sensors within each unit 110, 160 can provide electronic motion or position data indicating that the two units are proximate and in substantially synchronous motion.

[0036] In some embodiments, one or more configuration sensors 280 disposed within or on one or more control units can be used to identify the relative physical configuration of plural control units. By way of examples, data from inertial motion sensors, which can indicate the direction, velocity and/or acceleration of a control unit, can be processed to determine if the control units are moved in substantially the same manner. Data from magnetic sensors can be processed to determine if plural control units are being held proximate to one another, e.g. , by evaluating changes in or magnitudes of magnetic field. Infrared sensors and emitters can be disposed near the housing and used to indicate when a first control unit's IR sensor is proximate to a second control unit's IR emitter. It will be appreciated that additional means of joining plural control units or of sensing their physical configuration can be implemented with the inventive apparatus and the preceding example should not be viewed as a limiting. In certain embodiments an external electronic system can receive and process data from the configuration sensors to determine the relative physical configuration of plural control units, e.g., joined together, placed in proximity, separated, moved synchronously, moved non- synchronously, or certain combinations thereof. [0037] In some embodiments of the remote-control unit, a configuration sensor 280 is included and can be, but is not limited to, any configuration sensor selected from the following list: a pushbutton, a pressure sensor, a magnetometer, a light sensor, a capacitive button, a resistive button, and any combination thereof. In some embodiments, a pushbutton or physical button or switch is disposed on, in or near the joining portion 150, which activates when the plural remote-control units are joined, and provides an electronic indication of their joined configuration. In various embodiments, a sensor such as a magnetometer can be placed on, in or near the joining portion 150 and identify whether another control unit was proximal enough to distort the magnetic field detected by the magnetometer. In certain embodiments, a magnetometer senses degrees or levels of proximity between plural control units, and can provide data which allows the system adapted for remote operation to identify which operational mode should be executed, e.g., select an operational mode associated with a degree of proximity.

[0038] In various embodiments, user-activated electronic controls 240 are disposed on the upper half 112 of the first control unit. The user-activated controls can include, but are not limited to, one or more buttons 124 located near the forward end of the upper half of the unit providing for user-defined functionality and a power-on button or switch, a digital pad 121 consisting of four buttons, arranged in the form of a cross, and for which the plastic plunger connecting the four buttons can depress one or any two adjoining buttons at once, one or more user-defined pressure-actuated buttons 122 can be located aft of the digital pad to provide further user-defined functionality. In various embodiments, a user can select functionality of buttons 124, 122 during system set-up. In some embodiments, the digital pad is replaced with a bidirectional analog joystick 171 which may or may not have a depression switch contained within it. In some embodiments, a first control unit has user-activated electronic controls 123 disposed on its lower half 114 which can include, but are not limited to, buttons with user-defined functionality, pressure sensitive triggers with user-defined functionality, etc.

[0039] In some embodiments, the user activated controls 240 can be but are not limited to any combination of the user activated controls from the following group: pushbuttons, pressure sensitive buttons, tactile buttons, slide switches, rocker switches, potentiometers, variable resistance joysticks, hall-effect joysticks, analog joysticks, digital pads, capacitive buttons, microphones, and pressure sensors.

[0040] For the embodiment depicted in FIG. IB, the first control unit includes a protrusion 130 on the lower half 114 of the control unit. The protrusion 130 can be shaped and located to fit between either the index-finger and middle-finger of a user or between the middle- finger and ring-finger of a user when the unit 110 is held in one hand. The protrusion 130 can help to catch the weight of the controller and provide a comfortable balance point. The protrusion 130 can substantially transfer the unit's weight to the inside of one of the user's fingers, acting as a balance point, and substantially reduce the need for pressure applied by the user between the user's cupped fingers and the user's palm in order to hold the unit. [0041] In some embodiments, a compartment 140 is disposed on or within the lower half 114 of the first control unit to provide the user the ability to access a power source of the control unit. The power source can take the form of but is not limited to, two AA batteries either rechargeable or disposable, or a non-replaceable battery with any known chemistry, e.g., lithium-ion, nickel-metal halide, etc.

[0042] In various embodiments, each control unit has a power source 220, which can comprise, but is not limited to any power source selected from the following list: one or more AA batteries, one or more AAA batteries, any chemistry of battery such as Li-ion, Ni- metal halide, etc., a custom prismatic or cylindrical cell battery, an AC source, any form of environmental energy harvesting, and any combination thereof. In some embodiments the power source is removable from the control unit through the battery compartment 140, 190. In various embodiments the power source is permanently located within the control unit, and a charging port is located in, on or near the battery compartment 140, 190 to allow for battery recharging. In some embodiments, the power source is adjusted to provide certain parts of the control unit's circuitry with the correct voltage/current. In certain embodiments, the microcontroller 210 controls which parts of the control unit circuitry are provided power from the power source. In some embodiments, the power source is disconnected from or connect to the control unit's circuitry through the use of an on/off switch mechanism which can be controlled by the user. In some embodiments, the power is always connected to the power source, but the microcontroller 210 can terminate power delivery to certain portions of the control unit's circuitry and then enter "sleep" mode itself, thus reducing the amount of power the control unit consumes. The microcontroller 210 can be instructed to go to sleep through a variety of ways including, but not limited to, the following: through a user activated control 240 on the control unit, through inactivity or lack of motion of the control unit as indicated by the motion sensors 230, or by a directive issued by the system adapted for remote operation and received by the control unit via transceiver 290. [0043] Various embodiments can contain a multiplicity of visible light sources 142 which can be disposed on the upper half 112 of the first control unit. These light sources 142 can convey status information to the user. In certain embodiments, four light sources 142 are disposed on the upper half 112 and convey the following information: ON/OFF status, active player number, and battery life. The light sources can also convey information in accordance with any user-defined function, which can be identified during system set-up. [0044] In various embodiments, the one or more status indicators 260 can be, but are not limited to, any status indicators selected from the following group: single or multi-colored LEDs, neon lights, incandescent lights, diode lasers, other light sources, speakers, liquid crystal displays, and any combination thereof. In some embodiments the status indicators 260 take the form of four LEDs which can be used to indicate information to the user of the control system such as on/off status, active player number, battery life, a user-defined function, etc. In some embodiments, a speaker is used to provide acoustic information to a user. Use of a speaker can include incorporation of a sound encrypting/decrypting circuit, such as a CODEC, in the control unit. The speaker can be operated by the microcontroller 210 based upon data received from the transceiver 290.

[0045] In some embodiments, the control unit 110 also contains a vibration-inducing mechanism 270, which may be disposed under the upper surface 112 of a control unit. The vibration- inducing mechanism can be located such that the palm of the hand holding the control unit is substantially over the mechanism.

[0046] In various embodiments, the vibration-inducing device 270 can be, but is not limited to, any vibration-inducing device selected from the following group: pager motors, small coin type vibrating motors, dc off-center weighted rotary motors, brushless ac or dc motors. In some embodiments, the microcontroller 210 can drive one input of the vibration- inducing device in an on/off manner, allowing for very basic user-feedback capabilities. In some embodiments, the microcontroller 210 can receive instructions from a user, potentially through the transceiver unit 290, to drive the vibration-inducing device at particular frequencies for desired durations, by pulse width modulation of the input voltage, by current modulation of the input, and/or by driving the inputs in alternating directions, thus producing a more intense and/or informative form of feedback to the user.

[0047] In certain embodiments, the motion sensors 230 can be, but are not limited to, any combination of motion sensors from the following list: gyroscopes, accelerometers, magnetometers, ultrasonic transducers, global positioning systems, electric frequency triangulation, cameras and machine vision technology. In certain embodiments, the gyroscopes can be MEMs devices with one or multiple axes of measurement, such as the Murata single axis ENC-03R component, or the Invensense multi-axis IDG-600 component. The gyroscopes can also be a combination of technologies to provide multiple axes of measurements, with potentially varying levels of sensitivity and range. In certain embodiments, the accelerometers can be MEMs devices with one or multiple axes of measurement and variety of sensitivity and range, e.g., Analog Device's ADXL335A component. In some embodiments, the magnetometers are used to measure the Earth's magnetic field in one or more axes, or to measure an externally, locally induced field in one or more axes. Examples of magnetometers adaptable for the purposes include components such as Honeywell's HMC6042 or PNI SEN-R65 components. In certain embodiments, ultrasonic transducers can be employed to triangulate the position of a control unit in space, these transducers can be used to generate ultrasonic pressure waves which an external sensor receives, or the transducers may receive and respond to externally generated ultrasonic pressure waves. Examples of ultrasonic components adaptable for these purposes include Knowles Acoustics' components SPM0204UD5-2. In some embodiments, the global positioning system could be used to determine a location of a control unit to certain levels of precision. An example of a component adaptable for GPS locating includes STMicroelectronics' microcontroller STA2051.

[0048] In various embodiments, motion sensors disposed on a remote control unit provide data representative of any of the following aspects: velocity, acceleration, angular velocity, angular acceleration, position, relative position, and orientation. The data can be processed to obtain values, absolute or relative, of any of these aspects for a remote control unit. The values can be used, by the system adapted for remote operation, to maintain a dynamic model of the control unit's motion.

[0049] In various embodiments, sequences of motion data transmitted from either control unit 110, 160 actuate various functions on the system adapted for remote operation 300. For example, the motion of one control unit in a circle can generate a sequence of motion data, representative of circular motion, which is transmitted to transceiving unit 390. A processor within system 300 can be programmed to monitor incoming motion data for any data representative of circular motion. When data representative of circular motion is detected, the internal processor of system 300 can select or execute an operational function which has been pre-defined by a programmer or user of the system 300 to correspond to detected circular motion. Methods for processing motion and non-motion data are disclosed in U.S. patent application No. 12/268,677, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. [0050] In certain embodiments, a control unit's transceiver 290 can provide functionality for radio frequency triangulation to enable motion sensing. As an example, data from multiple transceivers, such as signal strength and/or signal arrival time, can be processed to determine the location of a control unit. In some embodiments, at least one of the transceivers are located with a control unit. Additional transceivers can be located on additional control units and/or at stationary locations within an area in which the system adapted for remote operation will be used.

[0051] In certain embodiments, cameras can be placed in or on the control unit which can acquire pictures or data images of external objects, e.g., light sources, symbols, selected shapes. The data can be processed according to machine vision techniques to determine movement of the camera relative to the imaged objects. In some embodiments, light sources can be placed on or within the control unit and external cameras can record images of the control unit and/or its light sources. The images can be processed to determine control unit motion. The cameras can be CCD devices, detector arrays, or camera products offered by companies such as PixArt.

[0052] In certain embodiments a control unit's microcontroller 210 is hardcoded to sample some combination of the motion sensors 230, configuration sensors 280, and user activated controls 240 which are disposed with the control unit. In some embodiments, the control unit's microcontroller 210 receives instructions from the system adapted for remote operation 300 as to which particular motion sensors 230, configuration sensor 280, and user activated controls 240 are to be sampled and data provided back to the system adapted for remote operation 300. In various embodiments, a control unit's microcontroller 210 is responsible for sampling data at a particular rate. The rate can be hardcoded within the system, control unit, or can be adjustable. In some embodiments, the system adapted for remote operation 300 can instruct a control unit 110, 160 to sample its data at a particular rate. In certain embodiments, a control unit's microcontroller 210 samples data only when it is instructed to sample data by the system adapted for remote operation 300. This can allow the system adapted for remote operation 300 to maintain its own sample rate. In some embodiments, when the system adapted for remote operation does not need particular or all data from the trans-operable remote controller 100 it can instruct the control units to stop sending the particular or all data until otherwise instructed. The system adapted for remote operation can also instruct the control units to perform a multiplicity of functions, e.g., shutoff power to various components of the control unit, activate the electronic status indicators 260 in some manner, sample a selected set of motion sensor data from the motion sensor 230, sample a selected set of user activated controls 240, sample a selected set of configuration sensors 280, store certain data in the control unit's memory, send certain data from the control unit's memory, activate/deactivate the vibration-inducing device 270 in a selected manner. Any instructions or requests issued by the system 300 to the one or more control units 110, 160 can be provided at any time during system operation in some embodiments, or at pre- designated times in some embodiments.

[0053] In various embodiments, a transceiver 290 comprises an electronic component adapted for any communications protocols selected from the following list: Bluetooth, Wi- Fi, various versions of 802.11, proprietary RF in any of the legal bands, Zigbee, Wireless USB, USB, and RS-232. In some embodiments, the transceiver supports wireless communications. In some embodiments, the transceiver supports wired communications. In some embodiments, the transceiver supports wired and wireless communications. Companies such as CSR, Xemics, BroadComm, and others all make chipsets which can be adapted for use as a transceiver within the inventive remote-control unit. The transceiver unit 290 allows for communication between the control unit's microcontroller 210 and other components, such as a transceiving unit 390 located with the system adapted for remote operation as depicted in FIG. 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D. In certain embodiments, the transceiver 290 is incorporated with the microcontroller 210. In some embodiments, the transceiving unit 390 is incorporated with the system adapted for remote operation or electronic device being controlled.

[0054] In various embodiments, the transceiving unit 390 comprises a small encased electronic instrument. The instrument can be provided with the remote controller 100 to adapt a system 300 for remote operation in accordance with the teachings herein. The transceiving unit 390 can contain a transceiver module which is in communication with a system adapted for remote operation 300, e.g., a video game console unit. In various embodiments, communication with the system adapted for remote operation 300 may be established through an accessible USB port, through the system's custom peripheral data input port, or through any standardized data-input port provided with the system 300. In some embodiments, the transceiving unit 390 is attached wirelessly to the system adapted for remote operation 300, and can use the same wireless protocol and frequency band used by the control units. In some embodiments, the transceiving unit 390 communicates with the system via any available communication protocol and frequency band for which the system 300 is adapted to execute communications. In some embodiments, the functionality of the transceiving unit 390 is incorporated within the control units 110, 160 and/or the system 300, so that the transcieving unit does not comprise a stand-alone device. In various embodiments, the transceiving unit 390 contains a transceiver which is in communication with one or plural control units of a trans-operable remote controller 100, and is compatible with the control unit's transceivers 290. In some embodiments, the transceiving unit 390 can have a multiplicity of visible light sources disposed on any outer surface of the encased instrument. These light sources can be used to convey information to the user or system developer, e.g., a game developer, regarding attributes of the control units, transceiver and/or system adapted for remote operation. The attributes can include, but are not limited to, the status of communications, control unit status, transceiver status, system status, and/or any other user or developer defined functionality.

[0055] FIG. 3A illustrates remote operation of a system 300 having a transceiving unit 390 where the trans-operable controller 100 is in a non-joined or non-proximate configuration and the units 110, 160 are not in synchronous motion. In various embodiments, data sent from transceivers 290A and 290B are received by transceiving unit 390, which is in communication with system 300 adapted for remote operation. For the configuration depicted in FIG. 3A, the system 300 is responsive in a first mode of operation, which can be associated with the non-proximate and non-synchronous motion. FIG. 3B illustrates remote operation of system 300 where the trans -operable controller 100 is in a joined configuration or proximate configuration and the units 110, 160 and units are depicted as moving substantially synchronously. For the configuration depicted in FIG. 3B, the system 300 can be responsive in a second mode of operation. In certain embodiments, the units can be in a joined or proximate configuration as depicted in FIG. 3B and move non-synchronously, counter-synchronously, or semi-synchronously, and such configurations associated with additional modes of operation of system 300. FIG. 3C illustrates remote operation of system 300 where the trans-operable controller 100 is in a non-joined or non-proximate configuration and one unit 110 is in motion while another unit 160 is substantially immobile but still in communication with the transceiving unit 390, providing yet an additional mode of operation of system 300. In certain embodiments, a single remote-control unit 110 can operate a system 300 adapted for remote operation as depicted in FIG. 3D, e.g., during a period when one control unit has been deactivated or silenced as a result of system operation or game play. The embodiment of FIG. 3D can provide yet an additional mode of operation of the system 300.

[0056] It will be appreciated that each operating configuration of the remote-control units 110, 160 can provide different modes of operation of system 300. In various embodiments, different modes of operation of the system 300 are associated with different operable configurations of the plural remote-control units. Operating the remote-control units in a particular operable configuration can activate its associated mode of operation. [0057] In various embodiments, one or more aspects of the operating configuration of the trans-operable remote controller 100 are detected by one or more configuration sensors 280, e.g., an electronic depression switch that can be activated when first control unit 110 is joined to second control unit 160. Data from the one or more configuration sensors can be received by processor 210. Information about the configuration can be sent via transceiver module 290 to a transceiver unit 390 and then processed by system 300. In some embodiments, the processor 210 processes received configuration data and identifies the operable configuration of the controller 100. In some embodiments, the system 300 can process received configuration data and identify the operable configuration of the controller 100. In some embodiments, both the processor 210 and system 300 process received configuration data to determine an operable configuration of the controller 100.

[0058] In certain embodiments, the configuration of the trans-operable controller 100 is determined by system 300, transceiving unit 390, and/or sensors providing data from one or more of the control units 110, 160. For example, system 300 and/or transceiving unit 390 may comprise an internal microprocessor which processes data received from transceiver modules 290A and 290B. When the trans-operable controller 100 is in a joined or proximate configuration and in substantially synchronous motion, motion data received from each unit 110, 160 of the controller 100 may be processed by system 300 and/or transceiving unit 390 and indicate that the units 110, 160 are joined or proximate and have substantially synchronous motion, e.g., the velocity and acceleration motion components are substantially similar.

[0059] In some embodiments, data or information sent from the control units 110, 160 to the transceiving unit 390 is encoded. The encoded data can include but is not limited to sampled data, requests for information, responses to specific requests for information received from the transceiving unit 390 and/or the system 300, etc. In some embodiments, the data can be encoded multiple times by the control units 110, 160. In embodiments with multiple encoding, the transceiving unit 390 can decode some of the information while part of the information remains encoded. The remaining encoded information can be decoded by the system 300 and/or by a specific application in operation on the system. [0060] In various embodiments, the transceiving unit 390 acts as a conduit for the data or information sent from active remote-control units. This type of communication arrangement is sometimes referred to as a star network, where the transceiving unit 390 resides at the center of the star and the control units act as points of the star with communication lines drawn from the points to the center. In some embodiments, the communication network may be fully distributed, where any control unit 110, 160 and/or transceiving unit 390 may pass on information from another control unit 110, 160 and/or transceiving unit 390 in the network until the information reaches its desired recipient.

///. Methods of Operation

[0061] In certain embodiments, upon power-up of a control unit 110, 160, its microprocessor or microcontroller can perform any or all of the following steps in order to join and/or establish a communications network: (a) initialize the control unit's transceiver module, (b) put the transceiver module into receiving mode with a pre-selected baud rate, (c) initiate a listening mode on a pre-selected set of frequencies for a signal broadcast from a transceiving unit 390 attached to a system adapted for remote operation 300, and (d) receive via the transceiver module and process any or all of the following types of signals: a signal indicating that the transceiving unit 390 is looking to make connection with a control unit 110, 160, and/or a signal indicating a request for initialization data from the control unit 110, 160, so as to enable an operable interface between the control unit 110, 160 and a system adapted for remote operation 300. The initialization data requested can include, but not be limited to the control unit's 110, 160 identification number, firmware version, sensor calibration values, clock speed, etc.

[0062] In certain embodiments, after an operable interface has been established, a remote- control unit 110, 160 waits for commands from the transceiving unit 390 indicating what functions the microprocessor or microcontroller 210 within the control unit should perform. The control unit can receive commands and execute any or all of the following steps which can be associated with a received command: (a) set transmission and reception frequency to a first pre-selected value, (b) set baud rate to a second pre-selected value, (c) send data from a pre-selected combination of motion sensors and user-activated electronic controls, (d) illuminate a pre-selected combination of visible light displays in a predetermined manner, which may include blinking of the lights, (e) actuate continuously or intermittently for a preselected amount of time the unit's vibration- inducing mechanism, (f) sample data from a preselected combination of motion sensors and user-activated electronic controls, (g) transmit all sampled data to an external receiver, (h) put the control unit into a power-conserving state, and (i) turn off power within the control unit 110, 160. [0063] In certain embodiments, upon power-up of the transceiving unit 390, the transceiving unit 390 can perform any or all of the following steps: (a) establish communications with a system adapted for remote operation 300, e.g. , a video-game system, (b) communicate substantially continuously with the system adapted for remote operation 300, (c) initialize a transceiver module included with the transceiving unit 390, (d) put the transceiver module into receiving mode with a pre-selected baud rate, and (e) initiate a listening mode on a pre-selected set of frequencies for a signal broadcast from a second system's transceiving unit 390, wherein the second system can be transmitting a signal such as, but not limited to, a signal to indicate that the second transceiving unit 390 is looking to establish connection with a control unit, and a signal to indicate a request to initialize data from a control unit, so as to enable an operable interface between the control unit and a second system adapted for remote operation 300. If the first transceiving unit 390 identifies a second transceiving unit 390 on substantially the same communication frequency, the first transceiving unit 390 can reconfigure its transceiver module to communicate on a nearby available frequency or bandwidth interval. If the first transceiving unit 390 does not detect a second transceiving unit 390 on substantially the same communications frequency after a preselected duration of time, it can initiate broadcasting of information to establish an operable interface with one or more control units.

[0064] In certain embodiments, the transceiving unit 390 can receive instructions from the system adapted for remote operation 300 and execute any or all of the following steps in response to the received instructions: (a) establish communications with one or more control units 110, 160, (b) discontinue communications with one or more control units 110, 160, (c) do not establish communications with one or more control units 110, 160, (d) indicate to one or more control units 110, 160 the type of sensor data required by the system 300, (e) indicate to one or more control units 110, 160 the rate of data transmission required by the system 300, (f) poll the one or more control units 110, 160 at the rate of data transmission required by the system 300, (g) activate a vibration-inducing mechanism in one or more control units 110, 160, and (h) transmit data to one or more control units 110, 160. These steps are provided as an example of functions which can be executed by the transceiving unit in response to received instructions and are not intended as limiting the transceiver's functionality.

[0065] An embodiment of a method 401 for trans-operable remote operation is depicted in FIG. 4A. In various embodiments, the method is executed within a system 300 adapted for remote operation. A method for trans-operable remote operation can comprise the following steps: receiving data 410, by a processor, from a first control unit, receiving data 420, by the processor, from a second control unit, and selecting 430, by the processor, a mode of operation to be executed on a system 300 adapted for remote operation based upon the received data from one or plural remote-control units. The method can further comprise providing instructions to execute 440A a first mode of operation of the system adapted for remote operation when the received data identifies a first operating configuration of the one or more remote-control units, or providing instructions to execute 440B another particular mode of operation of the system when the received data identifies another particular operating configuration of the one or more remote-control units. In some embodiments, the processor can be located within the system 300, within a transceiver 390 in communication with the system, external to the system 300, or implemented as any combination of processors at the identified locations. In some embodiments, the configuration of the trans- operable remote controller 100 is provided with data transmitted from the first control unit and/or the second control unit. The step of selecting 430 can comprise evaluating or processing remote-controller configuration data received by the system 300. [0066] An embodiment of a method 402 for trans-operable remote operation is depicted in FIG. 4B. In various embodiments, the method is executed within a system adapted for remote operation. A method for trans-operable remote operation can comprise the following steps: receiving data 410, by a processor, from a first control unit, receiving data 420, by the processor, from a second control unit, determining 425, by the processor, an operating configuration of the plural control units, and selecting 430, by the processor, a mode of operation based upon the determined operating configuration of one or plural remote-control units. The method can further comprise providing instructions to execute 440A a first mode of operation of the system adapted for remote operation, wherein the first mode of operation is associated with the first operating configuration of the one or more remote-control units, or providing instructions to execute 440B another particular mode of operation, wherein the particular other mode of operation is associated with the particular other operating configuration of the one or more remote-control units. In some embodiments, the operating configuration of the trans -operable remote controller 100 is determined from data transmitted from the one or plural control units. The data can be processed by an internal electronic processor operating within the system adapted for remote operation 300 and/or a transceiver 390 and its electronic data processing components and/or one or more processors located external to the system. The step of determining 425 can comprise electronic processing of data derived from one or more joining mechanisms 150 and/or configuration sensors 280 disposed with the one or more of the control units. In some embodiments, the step of determining 425 comprises processing, by the system 300, of motion data received from one or plural control units to determine whether the one or more units are operating in a particular configuration, e.g., joined together, placed in proximity, separated, moved synchronously, moved counter-synchronously, moved semi-synchronously, moved non-synchronously, or certain combinations thereof.

[0067] An embodiment of a method 403 for trans-operable remote operation is depicted in FIG. 4C. In various embodiments, the method is executed within a system 300 adapted for remote operation. A method for trans-operable remote operation can comprise the following steps: receiving data 410, by a processor, from a first control unit, and determining 450, by the processor, whether more data should be received. When it is determined that more data should be received, the method can execute the steps of receiving data 420, by the processor, from a second control unit and optionally determining 425, by the processor, an operating configuration of the plural control units. When it is determined that more data should be received, the method can additionally execute the step of and selecting 430, by the processor, a mode of operation to be executed on the system adapted for remote operation. When it is determined that more data should not be received, the method can execute the step of providing instructions to execute 440A a particular mode of operation.

IV. Application Examples

[0068] The inventive trans-operable controller can be used in a various applications to provide various modes of operation which can also be understood as trans-operable functionality. For example, the controller can be used to operate video games, electronic instruments, remotely operated vehicles, robots, and computer systems. In some embodiments, the control units can be used to record motion data in various applications. Example applications for the trans -operable remote controller are provided below. [0069] As an example trans-operable functionality of the of inventive trans-operable controller 100, embodiments for which the controller 100 provides operation of various video games are considered. In one embodiment when not proximate or joined, a first control unit 110 can provide a mode of operation of a video-game system representative of a baseball, and the second control unit 160 can provide a mode of operation of the system representative of a glove. As an example, an avatar may wear a glove and hold a ball. When proximate and moving in substantially synchronous motion or joined, the controller can provide a mode of operation of the system representative of a baseball bat. As another example when the first and second control units 110, 160 are proximate or joined, the controller 100 can provide a mode of operation representative of a steering wheel, and when not proximate one unit, e.g., 160, can provide a mode of operation representative of a stick shift. As another example, the first unit 110 can provide a mode of operation representative of a shield and the second unit 160 can provide operation representative of a lightweight sword when not proximate, and the controller 100 can provide operation representative of a broad sword when the units are proximate or joined. As another example, in a video game which allows for two players, when a first control unit 110 is used without another control unit present or a first and a second control unit 110, 160 are proximate or joined and moved substantially synchronously the first player functionality is controlled, when two control units are present and are not proximate or joined, a first control unit 110 controls player one functionality and a second control unit 160 controls player two functionality. This basic concept could be extended to include more than two players and more than two control units. It will be appreciated that rapid, substantially immediate, transfiguration of the controller 100, in both form and functionality, is possible in various embodiments and provides additional aspects of remote- control operation.

[0070] As another example of trans-operable functionality of the controller 100, an embodiment for which the controller 100 provides operation of a graphically based operating system is considered, similar to that of a keyboard or mouse. In one embodiment when not proximate or joined, the first control unit 110 can provide a mode of operation similar to a mouse or three-dimensional pointing device, moving a cursor around a screen, selecting objects, etc. A second control unit 160 can provide a mode operation similar to key functional components of the system e.g. volume control, color contrast, highlighting, etc. When the control units are joined or held proximate to one another and substantially synchronously together the controller 100 can provide control over the viewable workspace of the operating system and can allow the user to move to previously hidden areas of the workspace.

[0071] As another example of trans-operable functionality of the controller 10Od, an embodiment for which the controller lOOd provides operation of a robotic system is considered. In one embodiment when not proximate or joined a first control unit HOd controls the motion and functionality of one of the robot's appendages, and a second control unit 16Od controls the motion and functionality of another of the robot's appendages. When the control units are held in a joined or proximate configuration and moved substantially synchronously, the locomotion of the entire robot can be controlled. [0072] As another example of trans-operable functionality of the controller 100, an embodiment for which the controller 100 provides operation of a music synthesizing system is considered. In one embodiment when not proximate or joined, the controllers can provide functionality similar to a conductor's hands where one's motion keeps tempo or rhythm, and the other adjusts the volume of or keys in or out certain sections of an orchestra sections. The buttons on the two control units can be used to select particular instruments. When the control units are joined or proximate and moving substantially synchronously, or when one control unit is stopped, a "solo" operation can be executed, where a single instrument sound is operated alone. In some embodiments, an instrument can be selected by the type of motion the control units exhibit, e.g., one control unit could be operated as one would fret strings on a guitar, and the other operated in a strumming motion.

[0073] As a further example of trans-operable functionality of the controller 100, an embodiment for which the controller 100 provides operation of a medical rehabilitation device is considered. In one embodiment, a control unit 110 is strapped one fourth of the way between the ASIS and the lateral epicondyle of the femur, and a control unit 160 is strapped three fourths of the way between the lateral epicondyle of the femur and the lateral malleolus. The system 300 enters gait analysis mode because the two control units are not proximate or joined. When a control unit 110 is strapped three fourth of the way between the ASIS and the lateral epicondyle of the femur and a control unit 160 is strapped one fourth of the way between the lateral epicondyle of the femur and the lateral malleolus, the system 300 enters knee flexion/extension mode because the two control units are now proximate to one another.

[0074] Another example of trans-operable functionality of the controller 100, an embodiment for which the controller 100 provides operation of a sports analysis device is considered. In one embodiment a golf swing has been captured using a 3D captured device and a swing has been recorded, stored and displayed on a system adapted for remote operation 300. A control unit 110, when not proximate or joined with another control unit is used to rotate the view of the golf swing in three dimensions. Another control unit 160, when not proximate or joined with another control unit is used to start and stop playback of the swing. When the two control units are joined along their longitudinal axis, mimicking the grip of a club, the system 300 will playback the recorded swing as the user swings the joined control units.

[0075] It will be appreciated that trans-operation of the controller 100 is not limited to two differing modes of operation. Additional modes of operation can be enabled depending on the proximal configuration of the control units 110, 160. For example, additional modes can be enabled when the units are held side-by-side and moved substantially synchronously, held in a cross shape and moved substantially synchronously, held in a wedge shape and moved substantially synchronously, one unit is held still and another is moved relative to the still unit, etc.

[0076] All literature and similar material cited in this application, including, but not limited to, patents, patent applications, articles, books, treatises, and web pages, regardless of the format of such literature and similar materials, are expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety. In the event that one or more of the incorporated literature and similar materials differs from or contradicts this application, including but not limited to defined terms, term usage, described techniques, or the like, this application controls. [0077] The section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting the subject matter described in any way. [0078] While the present teachings have been described in conjunction with various embodiments and examples, it is not intended that the present teachings be limited to such embodiments or examples. On the contrary, the present teachings encompass various alternatives, modifications, and equivalents, as will be appreciated by those of skill in the art. [0079] The claims should not be read as limited to the described order or elements unless stated to that effect. It should be understood that various changes in form and detail may be made by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims. All embodiments that come within the spirit and scope of the following claims and equivalents thereto are claimed.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A trans-operable remote controller comprising: plural hand-operated remote control units adapted for interactive operation in one or more relative physical operating configurations wherein the one or more operating configurations provide corresponding one or more operational modes of a system adapted for remote operation.

2. A hand-operated remote-control unit adapted for interactive operation with one or more additional hand-held operated remote-control units in one or more relative physical operating configurations wherein the one or more operating configurations provide corresponding one or more operational modes of a system adapted for remote operation.

3. An apparatus comprising: a control unit; wherein the control unit is adapted for sensing when it is proximate to another control unit, and at least one of the units provides electronic indication of at least a proximate or non- proximate configuration; and wherein the control unit independently and substantially simultaneously provides complementary remote operation of a system in a first mode of operation when in a non- proximate and non-synchronous configuration with a second control unit; and the control unit provides complementary remote operation of the system in a second mode of operation when in a proximate and synchronous configuration with a another control unit.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising a second control unit; wherein the second control unit is adapted for sensing when it is proximate to a first control unit, and at least one of the units provides electronic indication of at least a proximate or non- proximate configuration; and wherein the second control unit independently and substantially simultaneously provides complementary remote operation of a system in a first mode of operation when in a non- proximate and non-synchronous configuration with a first control unit; and the second control unit provides complementary remote operation of the system in a second mode of operation when in a proximate and synchronous configuration with a first control unit.

5. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein said control unit is comprised of one or more microcontrollers; a set of sensors used to determine the motion of the control unit; a set of user-activated controls; one or more transceivers used to communicate with other parts of the system;

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein said control unit is further comprised of a top half, where user-activated controls may be accessed.

7. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein said control unit is further comprised of a bottom half, where user-activated controls may be accessed

8. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein said control unit is further comprised of a power source which may provide power to all the components of said control unit and an accompanying compartment for said power source to reside within said control unit.

9. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein said control unit is further comprised of a protrusion from the bottom half of said control unit.

10. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein said control unit adapted for sensing when it is proximate to another control unit consists of one or more of the following items; a mechanical switch, a magnetic sensor, an infrared and/or light sensor, ultrasonic sensor and/or transducer.

11. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein said set of sensors used to determine the motion of the control unit can be any one or more sensors from the following set: accelerometer(s), gyroscope(s), magnetometer(s) and/or any form of magnetic field sensor(s), ultrasonic transducer(s), global position system(s), infrared and/or visible light camera(s), infrared and/or visible light sensor(s), and radio frequency receiver(s).

12. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein said user-activated controls are one or more of the following devices: pushbutton(s), switch(s), microphone(s), joystick(s), potentiometer(s), tactile button(s), and trigger(s).

13. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising one or more status indicators from the following list: LED(s), speaker(s), vibration inducing device.

14. An apparatus comprising: a control unit; wherein the control unit is adapted for being mechanically joined to another control unit, and at least one of the units provides electronic indication of at least a joined configuration or non-joined configuration; and wherein the control unit independently and substantially simultaneously provides complementary remote control of a system in a first mode of operation when in a non-joined configuration with a second control unit; and the control unit provides complementary remote control of the system in a second mode of operation when in a joined configuration with another control unit.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, further comprising a second control unit; wherein the second control unit is adapted for sensing when it is proximate to a first control unit, and at least one of the units provides electronic indication of at least a proximate or non- proximate configuration; and wherein the second control unit independently and substantially simultaneously provides complementary remote operation of a system in a first mode of operation when in a non- proximate and non-synchronous configuration with a first control unit; and the second control unit provides complementary remote operation of the system in a second mode of operation when in a proximate and synchronous configuration with a first control unit.

16. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein said control unit is comprised of one or more microcontrollers; a set of sensors used to determine the motion of the control unit; a set of user-activated controls; one or more transceivers used to communicate with other parts of the system;

17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein said control unit is further comprised of a top half, where user-activated controls may be accessed.

18. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein said control unit is further comprised of a bottom half, where user-activated controls may be accessed

19. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein said control unit is further comprised of a power source which may provide power to all the components of said control unit and an accompanying compartment for said power source to reside within said control unit.

20. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein said control unit is further comprised of a protrusion from the bottom half of said control unit.

21. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein said control unit adapted for sensing when it is joined to another control unit consists of one or more of the following items; a mechanical switch, a pressure sensor, a capacitive switch, a resistive switch, a magnetic sensor, an infrared and/or light sensor, ultrasonic sensor and/or transducer.

22. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein said set of sensors used to determine the motion of the control unit can be any one or more sensors from the following set: accelerometer(s), gyroscope(s), magnetometer(s) and/or any form of magnetic field sensor(s), ultrasonic transducer(s), global position system(s), infrared and/or visible light camera(s), infrared and/or visible light sensor(s), and radio frequency receiver(s).

23. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein said user-activated controls are one or more of the following devices: pushbutton(s), switch(s), microphone(s), joystick(s), potentiometer(s), tactile button(s), and trigger(s).

24. The apparatus of claim 16, further comprising one or more status indicators from the following list: LED(s), speaker(s), vibration inducing device.

25. A system comprising: an electronic device adapted for remote control; a transceiving unit; a control unit adapted for sensing when it is joined and/or proximate to another control unit, and at least one of the units provides electronic indication of at least a proximate and/or joined or non-proximate and/or non-joined configuration; a piece of software to operate the electronic device adapted for remote control in one or more modes based on the proximate, joined and/or moving substantially synchronous status of the control units.

26. The system of claim 25, wherein said electronic device adapted for remote control is one of the following: a personal computer, a cellular phone, a PDA, a multi-purpose mobile device, a specialized computer for video game play, a robotic system, a music synthesizing system, a sports capture and analysis tool, a medical rehabilitation and analysis tool.

27. The system of claim 25, wherein said transceiving unit is comprised of; one or more microcontrollers; one or more transceivers used to communicate with other parts of the system; one or more status indicators;

28. The system of claim 27, wherein said one or more transceivers allow for communication between the said transceiving unit and said electronic device adapted for remote control.

29. The system of claim 27, wherein said one or more transceivers allow for communication between said transceiving unit and one or more said control units.

30. The system of claim 25, wherein said transceiving unit further comprises software capable of determining whether or not the control units are moving substantially synchronously by analyzing the motion data from the control units.

31. The system of claim 25, wherein said transceiving unit is distributed between the electronic device adapted for remote control and a control unit, and takes no separate physical form.

32. The system of claim 25, wherein said control unit is described by claim 1 and/or claim 11.

33. The system of claim 25, wherein said piece of software can determine whether or not the control units are moving substantially synchronously by analyzing the motion data of the control units.

34. In a system adapted for remote operation, a method comprising: receiving data from a first control unit; determining whether to receive data from a second control unit; determining a configuration of the first control unit with respect to a second control unit; executing electronic operation in a first mode of operation when the first unit is not proximate to, joined and/or moving substantially synchronously with a second unit; and executing electronic operation in a second mode of operation when the first unit is proximate to, joined and/or moving substantially synchronously with a second unit.

35. The method of claim 34, further comprising: receiving data from a second control unit if determined to do so;

36. The method of claim 34, further comprising: determining whether to receive data from additional control units; receiving data from additional control units if determined to do so; executing electronic operation in a multiplicity of modes depending of the proximate, joined, and/or moving substantially synchronously status of more than one control unit.

37. The method of claim 34, wherein the step of determining configuration of the first control unit with respect to a second control unit may be comprised of one or more of the following steps; examining the joined and/or proximate status indicated by one of the control units; analyzing the motion data from the control units and determining whether or not the control units are moving substantially synchronously.