Transmitter For Remote Control Signal Patents (Class 341/176)
  • Publication number: 20110241921
    Abstract: The present invention is related to a multi-function remote control which is supplied power by a rechargeable battery. The multi-function remote control comprises a micro controller unit (MCU), a residual power display, a button unit, a current detector and a voltage detector. The MCU couples to the rechargeable battery and then charges or discharges the rechargeable battery. The current detector measures the current of the rechargeable battery and correspondingly outputs a current-value signal (Si) to the MCU. The voltage detector measures the voltage of the rechargeable battery and correspondingly outputs a voltage-value signal (Sv) to the MCU. Then, the MCU obtains the residual power of the rechargeable battery by means of analyzing the current-value signal (Si) and voltage-value signal (Sv), and then reveals the corresponding residual power by the residual power display. Whereby, the multi-function remote control might have functions of remote control, charging and revealing residual power.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2010
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventor: Shu Hong Wu
  • Publication number: 20110241922
    Abstract: Configuration information is exchanged between a home entertainment system server and various wireless components by pushing a button on the server and a random button on a remote control device as it is pointed at the devices sought to be authenticated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventor: Behram MARIO DaCosta
  • Publication number: 20110234778
    Abstract: A remote controller including a wireless communication module, an image capture module and a host processor is provided. The wireless communication module is for communicating with a be-controlled appliance. The image capture module is for photographing and generating an image signal. The host processor is for performing a remote control function to control the be-controlled appliance, and processing the image signal to transmit to the be-controlled appliance via the wireless communication module to be post-processed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2010
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Applicant: MODIOTEK CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Che-Ya Chang
  • Publication number: 20110221622
    Abstract: Described herein is a remote control including a saucer-shaped housing, a removable faceplate, and a processor. The saucer-shaped housing may be circular in plan view and sized to be graspable by a user in one or two hands. The upper side of the housing may be convexly shaped and support a keypad with a plurality of selectable buttons. In some embodiments, the remote control includes a biometric sensor for receiving biometric information from a user of the remote control and communicating the received biometric information to a processor configured to recognize the user based on the received biometric information. The remote control and/or the processor may be configured to enable a recognized user to access viewing control options provided via the hand-held remote control device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2011
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Inventors: R. Michael Peters West, Robert Francis Shambro
  • Publication number: 20110221623
    Abstract: A control device which controls an operation of a controlled device, includes: an operation information storage unit to store operation information about an acceptable operation; a control information acquisition unit to acquire control information about the controlled device; and an association table generation unit to generate an association table for storing the operation information stored in the operation information storage unit associated with the control information acquired by the control information acquisition unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2011
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITED
    Inventors: Ai YANO, Ryuichi MATSUKURA, Jun KAKUTA
  • Patent number: 8013774
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and products disclose a remote control device that controls multiple consumer electronics devices based on orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, L.P.
    Inventor: John R. Stefanik
  • Patent number: 8004450
    Abstract: A wireless AV transmitting set includes a remote controller main body having an internal memory device and an external connecting recess for stably holding a digital AV player therein, and a first pair of electric contacts, via which data is transmitted and power is supplied to the remote controller main body and the digital AV player in the connecting recess; a seat having a receiving recess for holding the remote controller main body and a second pair of electric contacts corresponding to the first pair of electric contacts for supplying an external power source to the remote controller main body received in the receiving recess; and a wireless transmitter provided on the remote controller main body for wirelessly transmitting AV data files stored in the digital AV player or the memory device to an external playing device for playing. Therefore, the remote controller main body has expanded functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Inventors: James Chu, Heng-Chun Ho
  • Publication number: 20110199250
    Abstract: A system, such as a web server, in communication with the database, includes a configurator application for providing data from the database to a consumer to thereby allow the consumer to configure a controlling device whereupon the controlling device will be adapted to command functional operations of one or more appliances and a builder application for providing data from the database to a developer to thereby allow the developer to develop one or more codesets to be provisioned to a controlling device to thereby allow the controlling device to be adapted to command functional operations of one or more appliances.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Publication date: August 18, 2011
    Applicant: UEI CAYMAN INC.
    Inventors: Jonathan Lee, Oscar C. Miramontes
  • Publication number: 20110193737
    Abstract: A wireless remote control system is provided. This system includes a remote controller, plural detectors, and a decision module. The detectors are used for detecting the frequency a wireless signal emitted by the remote controller and respectively generate a detecting result. Based on at least one frequency difference between the detecting results, the decision module determines how the remote controller is moving and thereby generates a control signal. Because the decision module needs no knowledge of the frequency of the emitted wireless signal, the wireless remote controller has the advantages of small size, low cost, and low power consumption.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Inventor: Tzi-Dar CHIUEH
  • Publication number: 20110194856
    Abstract: A control for an electrical device, where in the control can include a receiver for receiving modulated electromagnetic radiation. The received radiation can be integrated by an analyzer, and an aspect of the electrical device can be controlled when radiation is detected. The integration period used by the analyzer can be greater than the period of a pulse in the modulated electromagnetic radiation such that the aspect of the device can be controlled independently of modulation in the received electromagnetic radiation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Applicant: GREENER POWER LIMITED
    Inventors: Nirmal Sabarwal, Peter Benmax
  • Publication number: 20110187574
    Abstract: A power consuming device that includes a control circuitry controlling a plurality of components installed in the power consuming device comprises a communication module receiving communication signals from a remote source, and a control module including an electrical relay coupled between an external power source and the control circuitry, the control module coupled between the external power source and the communication module to provide power from the external power source to the communication module, and wherein the electrical relay is configured to transmit power from the power source to the control circuitry when the communication signals energize the electrical relay. A communication assembly utilized in a power consuming device is also described herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Applicant: TYCO ELECTRONICS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Andrew Charles Davison, John Eugene Westman, Steven Lee Flickinger, Boris Golubovic, Mudhafar Hassan-Ali
  • Publication number: 20110191108
    Abstract: A method of operation of a remote controller consistent with certain implementations involves determining a spatial orientation of the remote controller based upon an output signal from a position detector; and setting a voice mode of operation of the remote controller as active or inactive based upon the spatial orientation of the remote controller as determined by the position detector, where the voice mode determines whether or not the remote controller will accept and process voice information from a microphone. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments may deviate from the features described in this abstract.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Inventor: Steven Friedlander
  • Publication number: 20110187575
    Abstract: A remote control transmitter of the present invention includes an electrostatic touch panel, a cover covering the electrostatic touch panel and having a fulcrum portion, and a wiring board having a switch contact and electrically connected to the electrostatic touch panel. Furthermore, the remote control transmitter includes a control unit for transmitting a remote control signal in response to an operation of the electrostatic touch panel or the switch contact. The cover is formed such that it is capable of carrying out rotational movement around the fulcrum portion, and the switch contact is pressed according to the rotational movement of the cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2011
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Applicant: PANASONIC CORPORATION
    Inventor: TAKAYA NAKAMURA
  • Patent number: 7990250
    Abstract: A remote control transmitting and receiving system for operating electric equipment with little operational misjudgment or malfunction. By setting a plurality of transmission codes of remote control signals of a plurality of remote control transmitters to different periods and by providing transmission order data in these transmission codes, even if transmission is carried out from a plurality of remote control transmitters completely simultaneously or with a slight time difference, it is possible to judge the transmission operation order accurately.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Tetsuro Hanahara, Noriaki Matsui
  • Patent number: 7990306
    Abstract: A radio control transmitter for a model is disclosed wherein a control range is limited to not to exceed a maximum control range without using a mechanical means. In accordance with the transmitter, an added control range being a sum of two or more of the control ranges is calculated, whether the added control range exceeds a maximum control range set to correspond to the operating section of the object to be controlled is determined, and the control range is corrected when the added control range exceeds the maximum control range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Futaba Corporation
    Inventors: Michio Yamamoto, Kota Toyotomi
  • Patent number: 7990288
    Abstract: Remote control device (10) comprising a circuit board (140) with control inputs (46) arranged on one surface thereof (44); control elements (42) which, following an activating action performed by the user, activate one or more inputs (46) from among those present on said board (140), said control elements (42) being incorporated in a selection mask (30; 30x; 30y) arranged over said inputs (46) for selecting which inputs of the board (140) are activated by an activating action of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: NICE SpA
    Inventor: Oscar Marchetto
  • Patent number: 7980402
    Abstract: The invention relates to a radio remote control unit for an operating device, comprising a radio transmitter for transmitting control command signals for the operating device and a radio reception unit assigned to the operating device for receiving control command signals of the radio transmitter and for converting the control command signals into control signals for controlling the operating functions of the operating device, characterized in that the radio transmitter has a sensor unit for detecting at least one irregular force induction state and/or an irregular movement state and/or at least one irregular positional state of the radio transmitter and is equipped to change its radio transmission performance in a specific manner on detection of the irregular state, and the radio reception unit is equipped to trigger an emergency control signal on detecting the specific change in the radio transmission performance of the radio transmitter to influence the operating functions of the operating device in a pred
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Huber und Brendel Inhaber: Wolfgang Brendel
    Inventor: Wolfgang Brendel
  • Patent number: 7978119
    Abstract: A system and method for coordinating movement of a powered sliding door module and an access ramp for a vehicle is shown in FIG. 5 An OEM key fob (26a) is modified to send a non-OEM signal when a passenger side sliding door button is pressed A non-OE controller (70) receives the non-OEM signal and, depending on whether the passenger side sliding door is opened or closed, and whether the access ramp is stowed or deployed, sends the OEM signal to open the door before deploying the ramp, or delays sending the OE signal until the ramp is stowed In another embodiment, an OEM receiver is modified to receive a non-OEM signal and the control configured to receive the OEM signal and send or delay sending of the non-OEM signal depending on the condition of the door and ramp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Inventor: Keith D. Heigl
  • Patent number: 7973648
    Abstract: When a television receiver is connected to a DVD player via an HDMI cable, HDMI authentication is carried out. EDID data is then acquired from the television receiver and a manufacturer name is determined. When the manufacturer name is determined to be, for example, “company A”, a table indicating a correspondence relationship of manufacturer names and remote control codes is referred to and remote control codes corresponding to the determined company A are selected. The selected remote control codes are then transmitted after selection of remote control codes of the company A is carried out. Remote control codes corresponding to the manufacturer name of the company A received from the DVD player are then stored in a memory in a manner corresponding to operation key numbers allocated in advance to a plurality of operation keys at a remote control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Funai Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Mitsuru Kawakita
  • Publication number: 20110156943
    Abstract: A remote controller for toys includes a user interface which applies the low-cost capacitive sensing method with the remote controller. Users can touch and/or drag on a remote controller surface by fingers to remotely control the movement of R/C cars, planes, helicopters or a boat. The remote controller is essentially a flat faced unit and there is no need for protruding control sticks or pushbuttons. This controller is applicable to different types of remote control toys with digital proportional control on speed and steering control. The remote controller is a symmetric product design whereby the controller is easily operable with left and right hand conventions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2009
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Applicant: SILVERLIT LIMITED
    Inventors: KWOK LEUNG WONG, Ka Ho NG
  • Publication number: 20110156944
    Abstract: A method of facilitating consumer device control bus functionality in an entertainment system is presented. In the method, a consumer device control bus command is received from a first electronic device. The control bus command is translated into a wireless remote control command compatible with a second electronic device. The wireless remote control command is transmitted to the second electronic device. A consumer device control command translation device, as well as a consumer electronics device providing related capability, is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2009
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Applicant: ELDON TECHNOLOGY LIMITED
    Inventors: Martyn Ross Ward, Anthony Michael Dove, Neale Hall
  • Patent number: 7969279
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a remote control system including a remote commander and a main device having a capability to connect with a subordinate device. The main device includes: a display; a first storage device for storing a plurality of sets of remote control codes; a first signal reception circuit; a first signal transmission circuit for, e.g., transmitting to the remote commander a set of remote control codes corresponding to a subordinate device; and a control unit. The remote commander includes: a second signal reception circuit for receiving the set of remote control codes; a second storage device for storing the set of remote control codes; a second signal transmission circuit; and an operation section for transmitting a remote control code transmission control signal for causing the control unit to perform remote control code transmission control for selecting the set of remote control codes and transmitting the set of remote control codes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventor: Tetsuya Nakamura
  • Publication number: 20110148685
    Abstract: A configurable light fixture for a lighting system is described. The light fixture comprising a receiver, wherein the receiver of the light fixture is arranged to, upon receipt of a pairing signal from a transmitter, store a transmitter ID comprised in the pairing signal in a first memory unit when the pairing signal is received within a pairing time window, the pairing time window being opened when the receiver is switched on from an off state, the receiver being arranged to, upon receipt of a control signal, compare a transmitter ID comprised in the control signal with the stored transmitter ID and release the control signal when the stored transmitter ID corresponds with the transmitter ID comprised in the control signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Publication date: June 23, 2011
    Applicant: Eldolab Holding B.V.
    Inventor: Petrus Johannes Maria Welten
  • Patent number: 7965204
    Abstract: The invention relates to a portable radio remote control transmitter with a splash-proof and dust-tight housing, which accommodates a control unit and comprises an operator control panel with a number of buttons for entering control commands. In order to develop the radio remote control transmitter in such a way that the risk of erroneous operation is reduced, it is proposed according to the invention that at least one button has an associated illuminating element for illuminating the button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: NBB Controls + Components AG
    Inventors: Wolfgang Bredow, Thomas Burchard
  • Publication number: 20110140948
    Abstract: A method includes receiving, at a proxy remote control signal receiver device, first control data from a remote control device that is associated with a first device. The first control data is prevented from being received at a remote control signal receiver associated with the first device. The first control data is associated with execution of a first action at the first device. The method includes communicating the first control data from the proxy remote control signal receiver device to a proxy controller and receiving second control data from the proxy controller. The second control data is associated with execution of a second action at the first device that is different from the first action. The second control data is communicated to the first device via the proxy remote control signal receiver device. The incoming commands may be superseded with another command set destined for the second device or ignored based on the context of the incoming commands.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I, L.P.
    Inventor: Lee Friedman
  • Publication number: 20110140933
    Abstract: A remote control system is disclosed. The remote control system includes a remote control transmitter module for transmitting a learning signal or a functional signal, and a remote control receiver module in a host for receiving the learning signal or the functional signal wherein the remote control receiver module operates in a learning mode upon a receipt of the learning signal or controls the host to operate functions according the functional signal. When the remote control receiver module operates in the learning mode the remote control receiver module is configured to verify and store the learning signal for recognizing an identity of the remote control transmitter module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2010
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: POWERTECH INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: YU-LUNG LEE, CHUN CHUAN CHEN
  • Publication number: 20110144820
    Abstract: A wireless programmable control system applied in home automation that aims at solving the problems of the state of the art such as lack of simplicity and a straight forward way to program and set up a system with several wireless devices working together and the fact that either a programming device must be used to set up the system, or the system is too simple and doesn't allow any programming at all, or it uses a bidirectional communication means. In order to solve the problems mentioned the system of this invention is composed basically of two components: a transmitter unit and a receiver control unit. The transmitter unit is basically a wireless device that transmits a unique code each time a switch is pressed. The unique code associated to each switch is in binary format and is broadcast using a wireless signal. The unique code is factory programmed in the transmitter unit avoiding any additional programming by the user, therefore simplifying the installation process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventor: Ricardo Trauer
  • Publication number: 20110133976
    Abstract: A remote control system includes a remote control device configured to control a plurality of consumer electronic devices. The remote control system further includes a programming system configured to: i) receive identifying information, which identifies each of the consumer electronic devices, ii) generate at least one macro, which is configured for collectively controlling the consumer electronic devices to perform a media function; and iii) issue a query to a user to determine whether the macro is to be used by the remote control device. If a positive response is received by the programming system in response to the query, then configuring the remote control device for using the macro. If a negative response is received by the programming system in response to the query, then not configuring the remote control device for using the macro.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicant: Logitech Europe S.A.
    Inventors: Glen McLean Harris, Justin M. Henry
  • Publication number: 20110133975
    Abstract: An electric power-generating device (1) comprising a movable portion forming a magnetic circuit fitted with a core (5) and branches (11, 12, 13, 14) coupled magnetically to the said core, a fixed portion provided with a permanent magnet (31, 32, 33, 34), a mechanism for rotating the movable portion about an axis of rotation (20) supporting the said core, and an electric coil (21) wound around the said core in order to gather the electric power obtained when the said movable portion rotates, the said generating device comprising priming and driving means (51, 52) coupled to control means (71, 72) in order to establish a priming of the said mechanism and interacting with the said movable portion in order to drive it by releasing a priming power at the end of travel of the said control means. A remote control provided with the generating device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicant: Schneider Electric Industries SAS
    Inventors: Christophe CARTIER MILLON, Didier Vigouroux
  • Patent number: 7956792
    Abstract: A remote controller with memory capability includes a status button, a memory, a processing unit, and a transceiver device. The memory is utilized for storing a status information of an electronic product. When the status button is pressed, the processing unit generates a control signal and determines whether the status information exists in the memory. When the status button is pressed and the status information does not exist in the memory, the transceiver device outputs the control signal and receives the status information and the memory stores the status information. When the status button is pressed and the status information exists in the memory, the transceiver device outputs the control signal and the status information stored in the memory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Qisda Corporation
    Inventors: Shu-Yi Chen, Chang-Hung Lee
  • Patent number: 7956791
    Abstract: A remote control device (100) includes an insulated housing (2, 3) including an outer surface (20, 30) plated with a conductive material for providing a suppression of EMI, an inner surface (21, 31), and a receiving space (4) defined by the outer surface and the inner surface, a printed circuit board (51) received in the receiving space, and including at least a first conductive pad (511), and a second conductive pad electrically connected to the first conductive pad by conductive trace, a cable including at least one grounding conductor electrically connected to the second conductive pad, grounding means (22) electrically connected to the conductive material and the first conductive pad for providing a sheath for ESD generated on the remote control device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Peter Kuo, Hao-Mai Yin, Jiang-Hua Zhu, Bing Du
  • Publication number: 20110128228
    Abstract: Methods for operation and a remote control are provided. In one embodiment, a method for operation includes detecting an activity mode for the remote control, wherein the activity mode is based on user programming of the remote control to operate one or more devices for at least one type of communication provided by a communication interface of the remote control. The process may further include detecting a user selection of a user interface of the remote control, wherein the user selection is associated with a command for the one or more devices, and determining a communication setting based on the user selection and the activity mode. The command may be transmitted by the communication interface of the remote control to the one or more of the devices based on the communication setting, wherein transmission of the command is based on one or more communication types of the communication interface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2009
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Applicants: SONY CORPORATION, SONY ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventor: Neil Van der Byl
  • Publication number: 20110122010
    Abstract: A remote control device (1, 100, 200) for home automation equipment, of the roaming type, comprising a housing (2) containing an electronic circuit (7) comprising a radiofrequency transmitter (9), said housing (2) being of substantially cylindrical or spherical shape and having an axis of revolution, wherein the device comprises a viscoelastic ring (6, 106, 206), with the same axis of revolution as that of the housing, elastically held against said housing (2) and concealing an opening (16) in said housing (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Applicant: Somfy SAS
    Inventor: Olivier Charleux
  • Patent number: 7949730
    Abstract: Methods and systems for remote data collection and distribution include components and operations for receiving, at a server, data transmitted by a first client device via a communication network. The method may also include selecting, by one or more client devices associated with the communication network, a second device to receive the data. The method may further include establishing a connection between the server and the selected second device via the communication network. The method may also include automatically transmitting the received data to the second device using the connection via the communication network. The method may further include causing, by the one or more client devices, the second device to execute a predefined operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Reality Mobile LLC
    Inventors: David Kallet Rensin, Tasuki Hirata, David Joshua Kramer, Brian Joseph Geoghegan, Kevin John Winters
  • Publication number: 20110115664
    Abstract: A method and system for programming, using a removable storage, a remote control apparatus providing universal remote control functionality is disclosed. A removable storage module may be introduced into the remote control apparatus. Programming codes for a remote-controlled device controllable by the remote control apparatus may be transferred from the removable storage module. Executable code for configuring the remote control apparatus may also be transferred. The programming codes may be assigned to control elements of the remote control apparatus. The remote control apparatus may be configured to use at least one of the programming codes to remotely control the remote-controlled device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Applicant: AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I, L.P.
    Inventors: Steven M. Belz, James Pratt, Paul Van Vleck
  • Publication number: 20110114716
    Abstract: Methods and systems are disclosed that include retrieving codes that are usable by a remote control device to remotely control a function of the electronic device. The methods and systems may also include transmitting the codes to the remote control device via a remote control device interface controllable by a processor of the electronic device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2009
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Applicant: AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I, L.P.
    Inventor: James Pratt
  • Publication number: 20110117850
    Abstract: An apparatus comprises a radio frequency (RF) unit, an Infrared (IR) signal unit, and a processing unit that decodes the codes received from the RF unit and feeds them into the IR signal unit. The codes control the home electronic appliances such as TV, VCR, Hi-Fi systems, etc. that can decode IR remote control codes. A smart portable device such as a smart phone is equipped with powerful CPU, touch screen, networking interface, etc. The software application running on the smart portable device can convert the user commands received on the graphical user interface (GUI) into messages that contain the IR remote control codes and communicate the messages over the RF network to the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2009
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventors: Hei Tao Fung, Tony K. Mak
  • Patent number: 7944370
    Abstract: An online remote control configuration system for efficiently programming a remote control to recognize a plurality of external electronic devices. The online remote control configuration system includes a remote control having a housing, a keypad, and an electronic system for receiving configuration data from a control station via a global computer network (e.g. Internet). The user preferably “samples” one or more signals from a remote control into the electronic system and then uploads the samples to the control station. The control station analyzes the uploaded samples and transmits the appropriate configuration data to properly configure the electronic system. The user may also access a web site of the control station and manually select each of the external electronic devices that the remote control is to operate after which the control station sends the appropriate configuration data to the electronic system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Logitech Europe S.A.
    Inventors: Glen McLean Harris, Justin M. Henry
  • Publication number: 20110109444
    Abstract: A method and system for programming a universal remote control (URC) to operate with a remote-controlled device is disclosed. After initiating a serial programming mode on the URC, a user may be instructed to operate a plurality of control elements of an original remote control (ORC) of the remote-controlled device in a predetermined sequence. As a result of operating the ORC control elements, a plurality of programming codes for the remote-controlled device may be received by the URC. Alternatively, the ORC may be requested to transmit a plurality of programming codes for the remote-controlled device. The URC may be configured to use at least one of the programming codes to remotely control the remote-controlled device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Applicant: AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I, L.P.
    Inventors: Gregory Edwards, Paul Van Vleck
  • Publication number: 20110109490
    Abstract: A method and system for programming a universal remote control (URC) to operate with a remote-controlled device is disclosed. A user may be instructed to operate a control element of an original remote control (ORC) of the remote-controlled device. The ORC may be operated directly with the URC, which may so receive a programming code from the ORC. The programming code may be used by the URC to determine an identity of the remote-controlled device and/or the ORC. Based on the identity, the URC may obtain corresponding programming codes for the remote-controlled device. The URC may be configured to use at least one of the programming codes to remotely control the remote-controlled device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Applicant: AT&T INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY I, L.P.
    Inventors: Steven M. Belz, James Pratt
  • Publication number: 20110102230
    Abstract: A codeset having function-code combinations is provisioned on a controlling device to control functions of an intended target device. Input is provided to the controlling device which designates a function to be controlled on the intended target device. From a plurality of codes that are each associated with the designated function in a database stored in a memory of the controlling device a first code that is determined to be valid for use in controlling the designated function on the intended target device is selected. When the codeset is then provisioned on the controlling device, the provisioned codeset includes as a function-code combination thereof the designated function and the first code.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2011
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: UEI CAYMAN INC.
    Inventors: George Vergis, Sunilkumar Mankame
  • Patent number: 7936287
    Abstract: An interactive, web-based codeset selection and development tool transmits hypertext documents from a web server to a web browser of a developer of microcontroller code for a new remote control device. The hypertext documents include selection criteria for groups of codesets stored in a central database of codesets. The developer selects the most appropriate codesets for the new remote control device using the selection criteria. The selection and development tool converts each of the selected codesets into a plurality of strings of timing information. The strings are encrypted and transmitted to the developer along with a signal engine. The developer loads the encrypted strings and the signal engine into a new microcontroller that has a factory-programmed decryption key. The microcontroller decrypts the encrypted strings of timing information and uses them and the signal engine to generate operational signals that control various functions of electronic consumer devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: UEI Cayman Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan Lee, Oscar C Miramontes
  • Publication number: 20110084867
    Abstract: System and methods are provided for configuring operation of a remote control by a display device. In one embodiment a method includes detecting user selection of an input of the display device and determining a command for the remote control based on the user selection of the input, wherein the command identifies a configuration for the remote control. The method further includes transmitting the command to the remote control, by the display device, for configuration of the remote control, wherein the configuration specifies operation of the remote control with one or more devices associated with the input.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Applicants: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Steven Friedlander
  • Patent number: 7924148
    Abstract: A tire pressure monitoring system includes a receiver for processing signals and alerting an operator of the vehicle should conditions within any of the tires fall outside a desired range. The transmitters within the tires emit shorter transmission signals during operation by eliminating transmission of the identification code. The receiver stores the identifier for each transmitter for comparison to subsequent transmissions. Subsequent transmissions do not include the identifier. The receiver combines the saved identifier with the value provided in the check portion of the incoming transmission. If the combination of the saved identifier with the value provided in the check portion meets a defined criteria, than the signal is recognized as originating from one of the transmitters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems US, Inc
    Inventors: John R. Costello, Jean-Christophe Deniau, Brian Farrell
  • Publication number: 20110075033
    Abstract: An image processing apparatus and image processing method are provided. The image processing apparatus includes a video processor which processes and displays an image; a receiver which receives a key signal of a color; and a controller which controls the video processor to display contents corresponding to the color when receiving the key signal of the color.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hyeon-ji LEE, Chang-soo LEE, Sang-hee LEE, Dong-heon LEE, Joon-ho PHANG, Yeo-ri YOON
  • Publication number: 20110072358
    Abstract: Provided is a system and method that may perform various operations on a website according to combinations of buttons on a remote controller. A system for supporting a remote controller may include: a profile storage unit to store a plurality of profiles containing functions of the remote controller and information associated with the functions of the remote controller; a receiver to receive an input signal from the remote controller, and to interpret an event of the input signal based on a profile corresponding to the remote controller; and a presentation unit to access a web server, to transform, to a predetermined behavior, at least one event interpreted by the receiver, and to request the web server for an operation corresponding to the behavior.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2010
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Applicants: KOREA ADVANCED INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, ELECTRONICS AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS RESEARCH INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Jun Kyun Choi, Jinhong Yang, Hyojin Park, Kyong-Il Cho, Sun-Joong Kim, Kee Seong Cho, Won Ryu
  • Patent number: 7907060
    Abstract: Various embodiments of systems, methods and apparatus are provided for indicating to a user a low battery condition of a remote control for a controlled device. More particularly, a remote control detects a low battery condition as well as the replacement of batteries in the remote control. The remote control transmits a low battery message to a controlled device responsive to detecting a low battery condition. Similarly, the remote control transmits a battery status message to the controlled device responsive to detecting the replacement of batteries in the remote control. The controlled device utilizes the low battery message and the battery status message to determine whether to present a low battery indicator to a user regarding a low battery condition of the remote control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: EchoStar Technologies L.L.C.
    Inventor: William R Reams
  • Publication number: 20110050477
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus, control method thereof, remote control apparatus that controls the electronic apparatus, and control method thereof. The remote control apparatus includes a communication unit which communicates with the electronic apparatus; a user input unit which receives a user button selection indicating an input button; a sensing unit which senses movement of the remote control apparatus; and a control unit which controls the communication unit to transmit information about the user button selection to perform a function corresponding to the input button if the remote control apparatus is in a button input mode, and to transmit information about the movement of the remote control apparatus to the electronic apparatus to control the electronic apparatus by the movement if the remote control apparatus is in a motion recognition mode. Accordingly, controlling a game or a multimedia content is easier, and the user is provided with a new and interesting experience.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2010
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Applicant: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Eun-seok CHOI, Ho-june YOO, Sang-on CHOI, Byung-seok SOH
  • Patent number: RE42496
    Abstract: A control system which provides directional control over various real and virtual vehicles, craft and moveable subjects. The control system includes a housing, a controller in the housing having an electronic radio control PC board or an electronic video control PC board and tilt switches which are fixed relative to the housing at preferred orientations. The switches are connected to control terminals of the electronic control PC board. With the tilt switches fixed relative to the housing, orientation of the housing can result in the electronic control PC board transmitting signals to a remote vehicle, craft or virtual subject. Rather than tilt switches, the control system can include pots having shafts orthogonally arranged relative to the housing. The pots are connected to control terminals of the electronic control PC board. Pendulums are fixed to the shafts of the pots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Inventor: Clayton R. Golliher
  • Patent number: RE42613
    Abstract: A rechargeable universal remote control assembly for providing a multi-function multipurpose remote control with a base charger, remote control finder, and other functional features includes a remote control and a base unit. The remote control is recharged using the base unit. The base unit also includes a button operationally coupled to a transmitter for sending a locate signal to the remote control. The remote control includes a receiver for receiving the locate signal. In response to the locate signal, the remote control provides audio and visual signals to assist a user in finding the remote control unit. The remote control has capability to operate multiple devices including TVs, VCRs, satellite receivers, audio and visual receivers, stereo equipment, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Inventor: Tarah N. Graham