U.S. patent application number 10/411792 was filed with the patent office on 2003-08-14 for customizable and upgradable devices and methods related thereto.
This patent application is currently assigned to Universal Electronics Inc.. Invention is credited to Conway, James N. JR., Escobosa, Marcus, Hayes, Patrick H..
Application Number | 20030151538 10/411792 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 24465515 |
Filed Date | 2003-08-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030151538 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Escobosa, Marcus ; et
al. |
August 14, 2003 |
Customizable and upgradable devices and methods related thereto
Abstract
A customizable and an upgradable remote control is provided
which may be customized or upgraded via a Web site or through other
remote, and preferably interactive, processes. A database is
provided which includes a plurality of functions of a consumer
electronic device, such as a TV and/or a DVD player. A user selects
among the plurality of functions at least one of the desired
functions. In response to the user selection a virtual
configuration is created to virtually configure the customizable
remote control. The virtual configuration may be downloaded to the
customizable remote control.
Inventors: |
Escobosa, Marcus;
(Placentia, CA) ; Hayes, Patrick H.; (Mission
Viejo, CA) ; Conway, James N. JR.; (Corona Del Mar,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
GREENBERG TRAURIG, P.C.
77 WEST WACKER DRIVE
CHICAGO
IL
60601-1732
US
|
Assignee: |
Universal Electronics Inc.
6101 Gateway Drive
Cypress
CA
90630-4841
|
Family ID: |
24465515 |
Appl. No.: |
10/411792 |
Filed: |
April 11, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10411792 |
Apr 11, 2003 |
|
|
|
09615473 |
Jul 13, 2000 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
341/176 ;
340/13.24 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 21/41265 20200801;
G08C 17/02 20130101; G08C 2201/21 20130101; G06F 8/65 20130101;
H04N 21/4117 20130101; H04N 21/42225 20130101; H04N 21/42226
20130101; H04N 21/42224 20130101; G08C 19/28 20130101; H04N 21/254
20130101; H04N 21/4143 20130101; G08C 2201/20 20130101; G08C 23/04
20130101; H04N 21/4782 20130101; H04N 21/25816 20130101; H04N
21/4586 20130101; G08C 2201/30 20130101; H04N 21/4222 20130101;
H04N 21/6125 20130101; H04N 21/8186 20130101; H04B 1/202 20130101;
H04N 21/435 20130101; H04N 21/42204 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
341/176 ;
340/825.72 |
International
Class: |
H04L 017/02; G08C
019/12; G08C 019/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A method of customizing a remote control, comprising: displaying
to a user at a client computer a plurality of pre-programmed
sequences comprising a plurality of operations capable of being
performed by one or more consumer electronic devices; and in
response to a user selection, causing at least one of the
pre-programmed sequences to be downloaded to the remote
control.
2. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the plurality of
pre-programmed sequences are accessible via an Internet Web
site.
3. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the pre-programmed
sequence comprises instructions for causing the one or more
consumer electronic devices to perform a channel tuning
operation.
4. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the pre-programmed
sequence comprises a code for use in accessing a broadcast
program.
5. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the user selection
comprises the user identifying a brand/model of each of the one or
more consumer electronic devices.
6. The method as recited in claim 5, further comprising causing
code data for use in commanding general operations of the one or
more consumer electronic devices to be downloaded to the remote
control.
7. A method of customizing a remote control comprising the steps
of: displaying a plurality of consumer electronic devices to a user
at a client computer; and in response to a user selection of at
least one of the consumer electronic devices, displaying a
plurality of pre-programmed sequences operable with the at least
one of the consumer electronic devices the sequences being
available for download to the remote control to be customized.
8. The method as recited in claim 7, wherein the plurality of
pre-programmed sequences are accessible via an Internet Web
site.
9. The method as recited in claim 7, wherein the pre-programmed
sequence comprises instructions for causing the one or more
consumer electronic devices to perform a channel tuning
operation.
10. The method as recited in claim 7, wherein the pre-programmed
sequence comprises a code for use in accessing a broadcast
program.
11. The method as recited in claim 7, wherein the user selection
comprises the user identifying a brand/model of each of the one or
more consumer electronic devices.
12. The method as recited in claim 11, further comprising causing
code data for use in commanding general operations of the one or
more consumer electronic devices to be downloaded to the remote
control.
13. A computer-readable media having instructions for use in
customizing a remote control, the instructions performing steps
comprising: causing a plurality of pre-programmed sequences
comprising a plurality of operations capable of being performed by
one or more consumer electronic devices to be displayed to a user
at a client computer; and in response to a user selection, causing
at least one of the pre-programmed sequences to be downloaded to
the remote control.
14. The computer-readable media as recited in claim 13, wherein the
plurality of preprogrammed sequences are displayed in response to
the user accessing an Internet Web site.
15. The computer-readable media as recited in claim 13, wherein the
pre-programmed sequence comprises instructions for causing the one
or more consumer electronic devices to perform a channel tuning
operation.
16. The computer-readable media as recited in claim 13, wherein the
pre-programmed sequence comprises a code for use in accessing a
broadcast program.
17. The computer-readable media as recited in claim 13, wherein the
user selection comprises the user identifying a brand/model of each
of the one or more consumer electronic devices.
18. The computer-readable media as recited in claim 17, further
comprising causing code data for use in commanding general
operations of the one or more consumer electronic devices to be
downloaded to the remote control.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. application Ser.
No. 09/615,473, filed on Jul. 13, 2000 which application is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to hand-held electronics and
control modules, as well as electronic commerce related to these
products. Specific exemplary embodiments discussed relate to
hand-held remote controls.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The description of art in this section is not intended to
constitute an admission that any patent, publication or other
information referred to herein is "prior art" with respect to this
invention, unless specifically designated as such.
[0004] While the present invention relates to hand-held electronics
and control modules generally, it will be better understood within
the discussion of exemplary embodiments directed toward remote
controls generally, and universal remote controls specifically.
Universal remote controls typically offer a preprogrammed set of
standardized keys for each device type supported. These provide for
the common operational functions of the device but do not
necessarily offer the full range of features available on the
original manufacturer's remote.
[0005] U.S. patents and applications relevant to remote control
technology include U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,515,052; 5,255,313; and U.S.
pat. app. Ser. No. 09/418,091 filed Oct. 14, 1999, which are
incorporated herein by reference. Pat. '052 discloses a universal
remote control with function syntheses. The remote control
comprises driver circuitry for communicating code signal generation
sequences including a code generated command signal followed by a
code setting signal; and memory for storing information therein.
Pat. '313 discloses a universal remote control system having a
signal generator to transmit signals which will cause specific
functions to occur in specific controlled devices. Pat. app. Ser.
No. '091 discloses means and methods for operating a remote
control.
[0006] Users of universal remote controls who need access to one or
more functions not preprogrammed into the unit must then use a
learning capability or a feature, such as a function synthesizer
(e.g., the function synthesizer discussed in Pat. '052) to add the
desired extra functions to their remotes. Other U.S. patents
related to remote control technology, and in particular, relating
to learning technology include U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,959,810; 5,228,077;
and 5,537,463, which are incorporated herein by reference.
[0007] Pat. '810 discloses means for transferring instructions
and/or data to RAM wherein the instructions and/or data is
transferred from a source external to the RAM. Pat. '077 discloses
a remotely upgradable universal remote control. Pat. '463 discloses
means in the remote control for picking up an electromagnetic
signal from an electromagnetic signal source and storing output
signal data in memory. The output signal data stored in memory may
correspond to control function data which may be transmitted to a
device to be controlled.
[0008] While the above described technologies may allow users to
ultimately reach the desired level of functionality, the
technologies and methods often suffer from significant drawbacks.
For example, learning is generally only possible if the original
remote control is available if the original remote control is lost
or broken, a learning system generally cannot be used. Another
problem is that function synthesizer codes must generally be
obtained from a live customer service representative for the
specific brand and model of device the user owns. This requirement
to interface with a live merchant or supplier, often results in
greater cost. Also, both learning and synthesizer data require
storage space in the remote control's nonvolatile memory. The
nonvolatile memory can become full. This limits the amount of
learned or synthesized data which can be stored. For example, a
combination of programmed command sets may be required to obtain
the desired functionality, but only a portion of the command set is
loadable. The remaining sets may not be able to be loaded onto the
remote control because the portion of command sets has already
filled the memory. Therefore, all desired sets of preprogrammed
data may not fit in memory. Additionally, key legends, (e.g.,
identifications) on the remote control, do not generally indicate
the added functions. The more one attempts to customize a remote,
the more difficult key identification becomes. The user must
remember where each function was placed.
[0009] In practice, many users do not bother to program their
remote control. They either learn to live "mildly dissatisfied"
with the remote control "as is" or abandon the universal concept
entirely in favor of purchasing the same brand of equipment across
the board and using that manufacturer's (i.e., brand of) unified
remote. This preference for single-brand use has been shown through
use of focus groups in which the participants indicated that they
owned only one brand of equipment for exactly this reason
difficulty in programming.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] As the invention is in part directed toward e-commerce, U.S.
Pat. No. 6,029,141, which is directed to an Internet-based system,
is incorporated herein by reference. Readers will find the
discussion of the terms and acronyms particularly useful. However,
Pat. '141, is incorporated for all that it teaches.
[0011] The present invention addresses the above shortcomings of
the universal remote control product by allowing the user to
configure and purchase a personally customized remote control
either via a Web site or through a computer located in the dealer's
store, for example.
[0012] Accordingly, the present invention teaches a method of
providing a customized remote control. A database including a
plurality of functions for a consumer electronic device is
provided. A user is enabled to select among the plurality of
functions at least one desired function. The user is then allowed
to virtually configure the customized remote control, whereby a
virtual configuration is created. The virtual configuration is then
downloaded to the customizable remote control to transform the
customizable remote control into a customized remote control. A
similar process may be used to transform an upgradable remote
control to an upgraded remote control. These steps may generally be
repeated as desired.
[0013] The customizable remote control, in one embodiment,
comprises a case and a plurality of preprogrammed standard keys on
the case. A plurality of configurable keys are included on the
case. The remote control also includes a plurality of customized
labels (or in some embodiments, customizable labels) corresponding
to the plurality of configurable keys. The customizable remote
control may also include means for assigning at least one function
to at least one of the plurality of configurable keys.
[0014] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a
simplified user interface. In a preferred embodiment the simplified
user interface is repeatedly customizable to match a user's
changing tastes and needs. The simplified user interface may
comprise a remote control having a touch screen for accessing basic
functionality and customized functionality and for selectively
customizing one or more keys.
[0015] It will be apparent from the teachings disclosed herein that
a customized consumer electronic device may be provided via a Web
site. The user is allowed (and therefore, enabled as well) to
access the Web site and select among a plurality of functions
performable by the consumer electronic device. The user is also
allowed (through provision of appropriate instructions in the
remote or via the Web that provide operative capability) to create
a virtual configuration for the consumer electronic device by
selecting at least one of the plurality of functions. In a
preferred embodiment, the customized consumer electronic device is
a remote control, and the functions include control functions for
controlling another consumer electronic device, e.g., a DVD
player.
[0016] A method of modifying a remote control taught herein
includes providing a database of function command codes, wherein
the database is accessible to a user. Included in the database of
function command codes is a plurality of command sets comprising
function command codes corresponding to a respective plurality of
consumer electronic devices. That is, the database preferably has a
corresponding command set for each device. A Web site is maintained
that enables a user to select at least one of the plurality of
command sets via the Web site. The user is then enabled to download
the at least one of the plurality of command sets.
[0017] A hand-held device may be upgraded according to a method of
the present invention. In a preferred embodiment, a user is
provided with a selection including a plurality of command codes
maintained in a database. The database comprises command codes
operable with the hand-held device. The user is enabled to download
at least one of the plurality of command codes provided in the
selection.
[0018] A customized hand-held device according to the present
invention includes a hand-held unit, or case, and preferably having
a display screen. Memory communicable with the display screen,
preferably, includes at least three programming sets for
respectively controlling at least three devices. At least two of
the at least three programming sets are associated with a common
(i.e., the same) brand, e.g., Sony. Set up programming for enabling
a user to select at least one of the at least three programming
sets during a set up mode is preferably stored in memory. The at
least two programming sets associated with the common brand are
preferably represented, e.g., displayed, in a prioritized order. In
a preferred embodiment, the display screen includes a touch screen
adapted to display keys. The at least one programming set
preferably assigns a plurality of codes to a respective plurality
of the keys. Thus, the one programming set may be used to, for
example, assign Sony T.V. control functions to touch screen display
keys whereby the user may control the T.V. Accordingly, in a
preferred embodiment, the display screen is a touch screen.
[0019] From the foregoing it will be apparent that an objective of
the present invention is to provide a user with a customizable hand
held device. It is the further object of the present invention to
enable to the user to customize the customizable hand-held device
with minimal additional human input. Further objective is to
provide this customizable handheld device in the form of a remote
control having a touch screen. Another objective is to provide
computer readable medium, microchips, microcontrollers, etc. having
operative programming and instructions for assembling a
customizable remote control.
[0020] Another object of the present invention is to provide one
with the ability to perform design trade-offs on a hand-held device
and have a customized hand-held device provided according to those
trade-offs. A further objective is to allow the ultimate user to be
the one performing the design trade-offs.
[0021] Another object of the present invention is to provide a more
efficient manufacturing and distribution system wherein the
involvement of intermediate distributors is minimized. A further
object of the present invention relates to providing hand-held
control devices.
[0022] Other objects and advantages in accordance with the present
invention will be apparent to those of skill in the art from the
teachings disclosed herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] In the interest of enabling one of skill in the art to
practice the invention, exemplary embodiments are shown and
described. For clarity, details apparent to those of skill in the
art and reproducible without undue experimentation are generally
omitted from the drawings and description.
[0024] FIG. 1 schematically depicts a method of providing a
customizable hand-held device according to an embodiment of the
present invention.
[0025] FIG. 2 depicts a home page of a Web-based download
center.
[0026] FIG. 3 depicts a sign-on screen for a supplier's Web site
whereby access to downloadable functions may be obtained.
[0027] FIGS. 4(a)-4(b) depict parts 1 and 2, respectively, of a
selection screen. The scroll bar is adjusted to move the page up
and down in the browser frame.
[0028] FIG. 5 depicts the selection screen of FIG. 4 after
selections have been made. For clarity the screen snap shot is
centered on the selections.
[0029] FIG. 5a depicts a remote control with a touch screen.
Multiple code sets for a single brand and device type are shown
with means for determining the operable code set.
[0030] FIG. 5b depicts a customization screen where the user may
configure his desired remote control key function assignment.
[0031] FIG. 6 depicts a download screen including instructions for
downloading command code upgrades.
[0032] FIG. 7 depicts a payment screen.
[0033] FIG. 8 depicts an image representing a customizable remote
control including preprogrammed keys and configurable keys. The
labeling means comprises printable (or pre-printed) labels.
[0034] FIG. 9 depicts the remote control of FIG. 8 with configured
keys indicated.
[0035] FIG. 10 depicts an embodiment of a configurable remote
control wherein the labeling means comprises label strips.
[0036] FIG. 11 depicts a customizable remote control including a
display screen, wherein the labeling means includes the display
screen if so programmed.
[0037] FIG. 12 depicts a remote control incorporating a touch
screen.
[0038] FIG. 13 depicts the touch screen remote control of FIG. 12
displaying secondary pages for accessing additional functions.
[0039] FIGS. 14-15 depict key layouts being downloaded to the
corresponding touch screen remote controls.
[0040] FIG. 16 depicts a remote control for use in an interactive
environment. The remote control is shown with a prepaid icon for
accessing an event.
[0041] FIG. 17 schematically depicts a method of providing a user
with a hand-held device.
DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0042] The present invention is discussed in relation to remote
controls, however, other uses will be apparent from the teachings
disclosed herein. The present invention will be better understood
from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments
with reference to the attached drawings, wherein like reference
numerals and characters refer to like parts, and by reference to
the following claims.
[0043] In one embodiment a manufacturer builds a "base" remote
control (e.g., customizable remote control). The keypad of the
remote will preferably include a small set of basic functions
expected to be required by everyone (e.g., volume, channel, digits,
and power) together with a number of blank keys (e.g., configurable
keys). Provision will be made on the remote to custom label these
blank keys, either via a stick-on overlay, or by some kind of
transparent cover under which a paper insert can be placed, or by
other compatible methods. The remote may then be sold at retail to
the ultimate consumer who logs onto a Web site from home (or via a
computer in a store) and enters the data on his particular devices
(e.g., type, brand, model). Note that access to the data need not
be confined to a path through a Web site, but may, for example, be
via a direct connection (e.g., a dedicated computer or dedicated
line). If the consumer is not sure about specific brand or model
information of devices he wants to control, he can, for example,
take the remote home and determine the desired device code by
experimentation using the basic pre-programmed functions. These
so-called step-and-set programming methods and other methods to
identify the device of interest are well covered in the patents
discussed above (and incorporated by reference).
[0044] In an alternative embodiment, the table of functions
presented to the user comprises a subset of all possible functions
available for the particular set-up code, said subset being
automatically determined based on model number information entered
by the user. For example, the total code set available for a given
manufacturer (brand) format may include functions for controlling a
TV picture-in-picture feature. However, if it is known that the
user's particular model does not offer this feature, then the
choices offered the user can be simplified by omitting these
codes.
[0045] Once the devices are defined (identified), the customer is
then presented with a series of screens, one for each device mode,
for example, each screen showing an outline of the remote together
with a table of all functions available for that particular set-up
code. Using a "drag and drop" interface, for example, the user
configures the blank keys on the displayed remote to contain the
specific functions he desires. When completed, the computer then
downloads the user's custom configuration into the remote (using a
serial cable, a magnetic modem such as described in Pat. '463, or
any other suitable interface).
[0046] For convenience, the user may print a label set to be
installed on the remote. In an alternative labeling approach, the
computer could transmit the label data (preferably as a part of the
virtual configuration) to a center where a more durable label,
e.g., a mylar overlay, would be pad printed and mailed to the user.
As is well known in the art, the "cookie" feature of the user's
browser software can be used in this application to locally store
information regarding previous configuration choices for later
reference by the configuring software resident on the Web site. The
durable label might also be provided as an optional accessory which
the user could order in addition to receiving the "on the spot"
paper label. If the consumer subsequently wanted to change the key
configuration or he purchased a new device to be controlled, he can
simply log onto the Web site and repeat the process as often as
desired to upgrade his control device. Accordingly, the user would
be enabled to change a portion of the configuration while leaving,
at least some, previously customized configurations unchanged.
[0047] FIG. 1 schematically represents a method of providing a
customized remote control 10. Similar methodology may be used to
upgrade an existing remote control. Therefore, the terms
"customized remote control" and "upgraded remote control" may
generally be used interchangeably, however, distinction will be
made where warranted. In the method depicted in FIG. 1 a database
12 includes a plurality of functions 14 for a consumer electronic
device (not shown). For example, the database may comprise a
plurality of command sets including a command set for each
selectable consumer electronic device. The command set includes
functions (e.g., signal data which may be transmitted to the
consumer electronic device) to control the devices. The user 16 is
enabled (provided with the capability) to select among the
plurality of functions at least one desired function 18. In FIG. 1
the desired function 18 is shown as function X for a T.V. The user
then creates a virtual configuration (not shown) for the customized
remote control 10 which may be downloaded to the remote control 10
as indicated by communication line 20. In one embodiment, an image
22 representing the remote is displayed. The remote 10 may be
shipped to a predetermined location, such as the user's home, prior
to downloading the virtual configuration. In another alternative,
the virtual configuration is downloaded to a predetermined
location, such as the manufacturer's factory, where the virtual
configuration may be installed in, e.g., uploaded to, the remote.
This may be achieved through use of a medium, e.g., a chip or
memory, having the configuration stored thereon, whereby the medium
is then installed. The customized remote may then be shipped
elsewhere. In one embodiment, a blank unit may be shipped to a
location, for example, to the user or the manufacturer, where it
may be configured, or upgraded if originally shipped with data.
[0048] In the method depicted in FIG. 1 the user 16 accesses a
computer 24 having a Web browser 26. The computer is connected to
the Internet 28. A supplier site 30 having a Web server 32 is also
connected to the Internet 28. The user 16 may, thus, access the
database 12 via the supplier site 30. The supplier site is
preferably the supplier's Web site, but more generally may be a
location of the supplier (whether physical or virtual) which is
accessed via a Web site or dedicated path.
[0049] FIGS. 2-7 display Web pages (or screens) associated with the
supplier site 30. FIG. 2 shows the home page 34 of a Web based
download center. FIG. 3 shows a sign-on screen 36. The sign-on
screen 36 includes a location 38 for receiving a unique identifier
40 of the customized remote control 10 (or upgradable remote
control). In some embodiments, the function or code selection may
be provided based upon the identifier 40 of the remote 10. The
unique identifier 40 requested in FIG. 3 is the serial number of
the remote control.
[0050] It will be appreciated that, in general, a Web site such as
is shown in FIGS. 2 through 7 can be used for multiple purposes.
Examples of such purposes are downloading new device types or
functions, extending features, upgrading code libraries and the
like, in addition to offer users an ability to create customized
remote control configurations. The discussions that follow,
however, will focus primarily on the customization capabilities of
such a site.
[0051] FIGS. 4(a) and 4(b) show parts 1 and 2, respectively, of a
selection screen 42. FIGS. 4(a)-4(b) show a selection 44 of a
plurality of consumer electronic device types, such as satellite
receivers, T.V.'s, VCR's, etc. The user 16 is provided with a brand
selection 46 for each type of the selection 44 of the plurality of
electronic device types. Each brand selection 46 is provided via a
pull down brand menu 48.
[0052] To, in part, avoid overloading memory in the customizable
remote control 10, the user is provided with a memory indicator 50
indicating, preferably on a percent basis, how much memory is
available in the remote 10 for adding another (or the first) device
type/brand combination selection to the virtual configuration for
downloading. Memory usage may be maintained locally via a "cookie"
process or remotely, e.g., at the supplier's site. In another
embodiment, the indicator 50 represents the amount of memory the
download will use without regard to the amount of data already
stored in memory. This may also be presented without regard to the
capability of the particular remote being modified. As FIGS. 4(a)
and 4(b) are shown prior to the user making a selection, the memory
indicator 50 is shown empty.
[0053] FIG. 5 shows the selection page 42 after brand selection has
been made for some of the device types. The memory indicator 50
shown in FIG. 5 now indicates the amount of memory the virtual
configuration (the download) will take. Preferably the memory
indicator 50 will also indicate the available memory for storing
the virtual configuration.
[0054] In the event that the brand requested has multiple possible
sets of IR function codes (for example, a brand such as Sears.TM.
or Radio Shack.TM. may include private label products produced by
several different manufacturers), an embodiment of the invention
can include a step in which multiple basic (non-customized) sets of
IR codes are first downloaded into the remote and presented to the
user to allow him to determine via experimentation which code is
applicable to his specific device. This embodiment is particularly
useful when the user does not have his device model number
available, or the model number provided is not recognized by the
system.
[0055] FIG. 5a illustrates such a multiple code set embodiment. The
remote 10a shown has been loaded (via, for example, a download
process or memory installation process) with four possible code
sets 49 corresponding to a brand name 48a (shown generically as
"your brand") provided by the user. These codes (or more
specifically, icons representing the code sets) are displayed in
tabular form together with the prompt "Your brand has multiple
types . . . try each one in turn" and a few test buttons 49a
comprising a small subset of the full functionality of the
corresponding code. The user highlights each possibility in turn
and uses the test buttons ("PWR" and digit "1" in this example,
although any other suitable subset can also be used) to check if
that code operates his device. In a preferred embodiment, the codes
to be tested are ordered by popularity, i.e. the one most likely to
operate that brand of equipment/device is listed first, the next
most likely listed second, and so on. Such prioritization serves to
expedite the test and selection process for the majority of users
(based upon popularity). Once the user has ascertained which code
corresponds to his device, touching the "OK" button 49b immediately
(in a preferred embodiment) sets the remote to use that basic
command set. The remote may also identify to the user which set of
extended commands should be requested if and when he proceeds to
the next (customization) step of programming his remote.
[0056] FIG. 5b shows the next step, after that shown in FIG. 5, in
the process of interactive configuration of a customized remote
control. Having selected device type 44a, brand 46a (and if
necessary, mode) the user is now presented with a display 22
showing a representation of the universal remote control product
key layout 23 together with a selection 66a of possible key
functions tailored to this specific device and brand. (See also the
below discussion regarding assignment table 66). The user is now
able to "drag and drop" key functions onto the remote control
display 22 as desired. In the example shown, the remote is
displayed with certain common function pre-selected (digit keys,
power) and key functions the user has already added ("TV/Video",
"Sleep", "SRS", and "Hue+") to be available on this remote. FIG. 5b
shows the user is in the process of dragging the function "Hue-"
across his remote key layout 23. When complete, the user moves to
the next step, downloading this custom configuration into his
remote 10, by clicking the "Next" button 66b shown. In different
embodiments, the pre-selection of common functions may be omitted
to allow the user complete flexibility. Alternatively, these may be
selectable as "groups" of functions instead of individual keys (for
example, the digits 0 through 9, volume up/down and mute, etc.).
Note that while the example shown in FIG. 5b and described above is
for a remote control with an LCD touch screen capability, it should
be appreciated that the configuration process for a "hard button"
remote, such as shown in FIGS. 8-9, is essentially the same.
Likewise for other types of touch screens.
[0057] FIG. 6 shows a download screen 52. In the embodiment shown,
the download screen 52 displays instructions 54 for downloading,
during a setup mode, an upgraded code selection via the speakers of
the computer. If sufficient memory is available, the user 16 may
download additional command sets, either separately or in a single
download. In this manner, the remote 10 may be upgraded as well as
customized.
[0058] FIG. 7 depicts a payment screen 56. In some embodiments, the
payment information 58 is associated with the unique identifier 40
of the hand-held device, whereby the user 16 need only enter the
payment information once, preferably, per device to be customized
or upgraded. In other embodiments the one-time-entered payment
information is protected via a personal-identification-number (PIN)
system, for example.
[0059] Referring to FIG. 1, newly configured keys 60 are preferably
indicated (see also FIG. 9). Configurable keys 62 are preferably
also displayed. Note that generally the configured keys 60 are a
subset of the configurable keys 62. However, in some embodiments,
the keys are "one-time" configurable and thereby removed from the
set of configurable keys after they are configured. In some
embodiments, the one-time configurable keys may still be configured
multiple times by, for example, replacing memory cards or chips,
etc. In one embodiment, the configurable keys are displayed with
the configured, or assigned, function 64 in an assignment table
66.
[0060] FIGS. 8-10 depict a configurable remote control 100. The
configurable remote control 100 may be a customizable remote
control 10 or an upgradable remote control, for example. FIG. 11
depicts a configurable remote control 100A which is an embodiment
similar to that shown in FIGS. 8-10. The configurable remote
control 100 includes a plurality of preprogrammed standard keys
102, a plurality of configurable keys 104 and means for assigning
at least one function to at least one of the plurality of
configurable keys 104. The means for assigning at least one
function preferably includes means for providing the user 16 with
access to the database 12 of the plurality of functions 14.
[0061] FIGS. 8-11 show a variety of means for labeling the
configurable keys 104. In one embodiment, the means for labeling
includes a recess 106 around the configurable keys 104, wherein the
recess accommodates a label 108 and a transparent lens 110, (or
protective cover 110). In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the label
108 is a precut, printable label and the transparent lens 110 is a
clear snap-on lens. The remote 100 of FIG. 8 also includes an
additional area 112 for customizing types of devices supported by
the remote 100. More generally, the modes of the remote 100 may
also be customized and identified. Generally, different modes will
also correspond to different devices. In one preferred embodiment,
the precut labels 108 are provided on carrier sheets 114. Referring
to FIG. 1, the computer 24 may be connected to a printer 115 for
printing labels on the carrier sheets 114.
[0062] FIG. 9 shows the configurable remote control 100 of FIG. 8
wherein the configurable keys 104 include configured keys 1116. In
the embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the configured keys are indicated
to the user by highlighting the configured keys 116.
[0063] FIG. 10 depicts an embodiment wherein the labeling means
comprises labeling strips 118. The labeling strips 118 may be
preprinted with commonly requested functions or printed with
downloaded functions similar to the labels 108, for example.
Alternatively, the user 16 can customize the labeling strips 118 on
plain paper, cut them out, position them in the recess 106 and
secure them in place with the transparent lens 110. FIG. 11 depicts
the configurable remote control 100A which includes a display
screen 120. The display screen 120 is preferably an LCD screen.
Accordingly, the labeling means may, also, or alternatively,
comprise the display screen 120. An alternative embodiment uses a
remote such as remote control 100B incorporating a touch screen LCD
122 as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13. In this implementation, the
included basic functionality is provided on one screen, or page,
122A shown in FIG. 12, while the user selected configurable key
functions are presented in one or more secondary pages 122B,
accessible via a button 124on the first page 122A, as shown in FIG.
13.
[0064] In yet another embodiment of a universal remote control, it
is considered advantageous if the key layout of the universal
remote could closely match that of the original remote control
supplied with the user's equipment. On a conventional (i.e. hard
key) universal remote, this is, of course, not possible and on
these units the (fixed) key layout represents the manufacturer's
best compromise at a layout suitable for as many different
brands/models of original equipment as possible. Even in a remote
control of the type with an LCD display and touch screen input,
though the unit may have the physical capability to display a
different set of key shapes/layouts for every brand/model of
original equipment remote control, practical limitations prevent
supporting all code combinations. For example, the large amount of
memory that would be required to store all the different key shapes
and layouts corresponding to every possible device model and type
to be supported generally is not practical for most applications.
Plus, such a unit, even if practical, would at best only have
layouts for those items of consumer electronics (CE) equipment that
existed at the time the unit was manufactured, and would still
require generic screen layouts to support devices whose layouts are
not in it's library. (Note that many CE manufacturers will use the
same IR codes from model to model or year to year, even though
remote designs and layouts may change.) However, if individual
screen layouts were available on a Web site where a consumer could
browse by, e.g., brand/model until he found a matching picture of
his original remote control. He could then download into the
universal remote a corresponding key arrangement and memory
capacity would thus not be an issue since only the layouts
corresponding to the consumer's current equipment need to be stored
in the remote. Examples of this approach--original remote 126 and
126' and corresponding layout on an LCD remote 128 and 128'--are
shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, respectively.
[0065] In yet another embodiment of a remote control with display
capability, the user accesses a Web site to download not the device
IR command codes themselves, but rather sequences of pre-programmed
instructions to perform various operations. These may include items
such as channel tuning command sequences to facilitate tuning to a
particular program on TV; pre-defined sequences for setting up or
configuring consumer entertainment appliances and equipment;
private access codes or numbers for use in an interactive TV
environment, whereby one-time premium series such as sports events
or pay-per-view moves are activated; and other applications.
[0066] In an example of pre-programmed instruction, a user who has
just purchased a new home theater audio amplifier may be instructed
to log onto a particular Web site where, after identifying the
brand/model equipment he has just purchased, not only is the code
data for that device downloaded into his remote, but also a set of
instructions and remote control sequences which facilitate setup
and adjustment of the system. Such instructions and sequences may,
for instance, include macro sequences or steps for balancing the
volume levels on the surround sound speakers, setting equalizer
values to match room acoustics, etc.
[0067] Another example is discussed with reference to an
interactive TV environment. A user might log onto a Web and browse
a menu of available premium programming offers --sports events,
recent moves, etc. In order to purchase items, the user after
providing a credit card number or similar method of payment, has
downloaded into his remote control an logo/icon for display on the
remote LCD, together with a numeric code to be transmitted to the
interactive TV (or STB) when that icon is touched. The numeric code
transmitted has the effect of validating the consumer's purchase of
the program and "unlocking" the receiver to allow access to it.
FIG. 16 shows how such an item might appear on the remote 130 when,
in this case, the user had pre-purchased the pay-per-view (PPV)
movie "Desert Antics". In this depiction, the pre-paid icon 132
appears next to the same screen as the regular channel changing
buttons, alternatively these paid purchase icons (PPIs) can be
displayed on a separate page reserved partly or entirely for the
function.
[0068] It will be appreciated that while the above descriptions and
examples are presented with reference to a remote control including
LCD display capability, other types of devices are also suitable:
for example, PDAs of the type marketed under the trademarks
Palm.TM., Handspring.TM., and others, especially when equipped with
aftermarket IR remote control hardware and/or software such as is
available from vendors such as Pacific Neo-Tek, Inc.
[0069] Referring to FIG. 1, a complimentary, or alternative, method
of providing a handheld device, or a component related thereto, to
the user 16 is schematically shown. The supplier, through a
predetermined process 200 creates a product 202 which is then
transported, i.e., shipped, via transport 204, to a predetermined
location 206. In a preferred embodiment, the predetermined location
206 is not only accessible to the user 16, but is co-located with
the user computer 24. In alternative embodiments, the predetermined
location 206 may be a store accessible to the user 16. The store
may also comprise the user computer 24. The method may also be used
to ship the labels 108, for example, or a permanent pre-printed
mylar label, for example, or even the customizable remote control
10 or a component of the remote for later installation. The remote
10 may be shipped pre- or post-downloading the virtual
configuration and pre- or post-installation of the virtual
configuration.
[0070] FIG. 17 schematically depicts another approach for providing
a customer 16 with a hand-held device 210. The customer 16
interfaces with the computer 212 which is connected to the Internet
28. Via the Internet 28 the customer 16 provides the first supplier
site 214 with a preferred configuration (also referred to as a
preferred virtual configuration). The preferred configuration may
include case design, function programming, as well as key
assignment, for example. The preferred configuration is downloaded,
or preferably burned, into a chip 216, for example. The first
supplier 214 ships the chip 216 to a predetermined location 218,
which is preferably a third supplier site 220. The preferred
configuration may also be transmitted to a second supplier site 222
wherein the second supplier provides a case 224, which in various
preferred embodiments may be an LCD remote control such as shown in
FIG. 11 or 12 or a hard key remote control such as shown in FIG. 8.
The second supplier then ships the case 224 to the third supplier
site 220. The third supplier then assembles the components (216 and
224) and ships the hand-held device 210 to a second predetermined
site 226, the second predetermined site being accessible to the
customer 16, and preferably being the home or business, for
example, of the customer 16. The designations of first, second,
etc. are merely used for convenience and are not intended to
indicate limitations of the invention or order in an inventive
process. Also, the sites may be separated or colocated, depending
on the application. It should also be appreciated that the customer
in this context is not necessarily the final end user of the
device--he may, for example, be a store proprietor or original
equipment manufacturer ("OEM") ordering one or more devices for
resale.
[0071] While the invention has been particularly shown and
described with reference to particular embodiments thereof, it will
be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in
form and detail may be made therein without departing from the
spirit and scope of the invention. The scope of the claimed
invention is intended to be defined by following claims as they
would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art with
appropriate reference to the specification, including the drawings,
as warranted.
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