U.S. patent application number 11/194400 was filed with the patent office on 2005-12-01 for switching between an arm's length user interface and a distance user interface.
This patent application is currently assigned to Microsoft Corporation. Invention is credited to Benson, Rodger William, Flora, William T. JR., Fong, Jeffrey C., Gibson, Mark R., MacKenzie, Mark D., Parker, Kathryn L., Rhoten, Molly Scoville, Trower, Tandy W., Weinberg, Mark Jeffrey, Williams, Christopher Daniel.
Application Number | 20050268252 11/194400 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 29733635 |
Filed Date | 2005-12-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050268252 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Parker, Kathryn L. ; et
al. |
December 1, 2005 |
Switching between an arm's length user interface and a distance
user interface
Abstract
A new user interface, a distance user interface, in a computer
system for operating a computer from a television-viewing distance
is provided. A centralized display is provided enabling a user to
access streaming video and sound as well as music files, video
files, and picture files from a single screen. Collaborative
sharing of media content is provided by enabling a computer's
operations and feedback to be collectively observed from a
distance.
Inventors: |
Parker, Kathryn L.;
(Sammamish, WA) ; Flora, William T. JR.; (Seattle,
WA) ; Fong, Jeffrey C.; (Seattle, WA) ;
Gibson, Mark R.; (Seattle, WA) ; MacKenzie, Mark
D.; (Seattle, WA) ; Rhoten, Molly Scoville;
(Seattle, WA) ; Trower, Tandy W.; (Woodinville,
WA) ; Weinberg, Mark Jeffrey; (Kirkland, WA) ;
Williams, Christopher Daniel; (Bellevue, WA) ;
Benson, Rodger William; (Seattle, WA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
SHOOK, HARDY & BACON L.L.P.
2555 GRAND BOULEVARD
KANSAS CITY
MO
64108-2613
US
|
Assignee: |
Microsoft Corporation
Redmond
WA
|
Family ID: |
29733635 |
Appl. No.: |
11/194400 |
Filed: |
August 1, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
11194400 |
Aug 1, 2005 |
|
|
|
10174619 |
Jun 19, 2002 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
715/810 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 3/033 20130101;
H04N 21/47214 20130101; H04N 21/4828 20130101; H04N 21/4312
20130101; H04N 21/4221 20130101; G06F 3/02 20130101; H04N 21/4825
20130101; H04N 21/4325 20130101; H04N 21/485 20130101; H04N 21/4117
20130101; H04N 21/4821 20130101; H04N 21/47217 20130101; H04N
21/4334 20130101; G06F 3/0231 20130101; H04N 21/42204 20130101;
H04N 21/4143 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
715/810 |
International
Class: |
G06F 003/00 |
Claims
The invention claimed is:
1. One or more computer readable media having computer-useable
instructions embodied thereon for performing a method of switching
between an arm's-length user interface and a distance user
interface, the method comprising: presenting a first user interface
optimized to operate a computer from an arm's-length distance; and
presenting a distance user interface optimized for operating the
computer from a television-viewing distance.
2. The media of claim 1, wherein presenting a distance user
interface includes presenting a first plurality of selectable links
readable from a television-viewing distance.
3. The media of claim 2, wherein presenting first a plurality of
selectable links includes presenting corresponding functional
identifiers discernable from said television viewing distance and
correlated to a function to be performed by following each of said
selectable links.
4. The media of claim 3, wherein the first plurality of selectable
links comprises at least one selected from the group of presenting
a television program, playing an audio track, displaying a video
recording, and displaying a picture.
5. One or more computer readable media having computer-useable
instructions embodied thereon for performing a method of switching
between an arm's-length user interface and a distance user
interface, the method comprising: presenting a first user
interface, said first user interface designed to facilitate
operating a computer at an arm's-length distance; receiving a
command to transition from said first user interface to a second
user interface; and incident to receiving said command, presenting
a second user interface, said second user interface designed
facilitate operating the same computer from a television-viewing
distance.
6. The media of claim 5, wherein said receiving a command includes
receiving a command from a remote-control device.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This Application is a Division of prior application Ser. No.
10/174,619, filed Jun. 19, 2002, which is incorporated by reference
herein.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0003] The present invention relates to user interfaces for
operating computers. More particularly, the present invention
provides a method and apparatus for enabling the operation of a
personal computer from a distance.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Today's personal computer user interfaces (UI), such as that
implemented in the "Windows 95" Operating System produced by
Microsoft Corporation of Redmond, Wash., are designed for optimum
interaction with the user (end-user) operating in close proximity
to the computer and monitor. One might refer to this as a "two-foot
user interface" (2'UI) since the user interacts approximately
within two feet of the computer, monitor, keyboard, and mouse. This
design makes it impractical to interact with the computer from a
longer distance.
[0005] In contrast, a television (TV) is often viewed at a
distance, or from across a room. But a typical 2'UI, with its small
text and small icons, could not be used to operate a computer from
a commensurate distance. A computer equipped with a Distance User
Interface (DUI) could be so operated. Accordingly, one practical
application in the technical arts of the present invention is
providing for the operation of a computer at a television-viewing
distance by providing a DUI.
[0006] Interaction with Personal Computers (PCs) can be extended
into entertainment centerpieces. Although the PC can be the center
of productivity in most homes, no longer are computers being used
to merely write a letter or create a spreadsheet. As important as
such functions are, there is a growing demand to move the computer
from the office to the living room because of its
entertainment-providing potential. To share media content such as
digital photographs and digitized videos, people must huddle around
a computer running a 2'UI operated by a user in close proximity.
There exists a problem with easily accessing media content stored
on a computer. Such a problem can be solved by providing a DUI,
which can be comfortably viewed and easily used to operate the
computer from a distance, approximately equal to a
television-viewing distance. With a new, easy-to-navigate user
interface and a simple remote control, users will have a more
relaxed way to enjoy their music, videos and photos with friends
and family from their PC.
[0007] Previous attempts have been made to create a computer
distance-viewing experience. For instance, couplings and adapters
exist whereby the output from a computer can be displayed on a
conventional, large television or large plasma display device. This
attempt, however, does not address the operability of the user
interface. Rather, it merely makes a 2'UI bigger. A larger 2'UI
does not offer the advantages of the DUI disclosed by the present
invention, such as the ease of operation from a distance with a
remote control device.
[0008] There exists a need for a distance user interface, which can
provide the ability to operate a computer from across a room, or at
a distance commensurate with a television-viewing distance for a TV
similar in size to a chosen display.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The present invention provides several useful, concrete and
tangible results, including a new user interface, enabling a
computer user to operate a computer from a television-viewing
distance. The present invention enables users to access their
favorite digital media content on their PC from a distance and
share the media experience with others in a room. Several operative
functions, including controlling television viewing from a
distance, playing music stored on the computer and receiving visual
confirmation of what is being played from a distance, accessing
digital photographs stored in the computer system, and controlling
the playback of videos stored on a computer from a distance are
made available by the present invention. For example, users will be
able to easily find and play their favorite music from across the
room in a variety of formats like CDs, WINDOWS Media Audio and MP3
format. From a television-viewing distance, they will be able to
browse music cover artwork from a PC music collection, share family
photos with automatic slideshows that combine music and photos,
watch DVDs, streaming programming, and recorded video, and enjoy
Internet-delivered content such as game playing and web-casts.
[0010] The present invention includes a system, method, and article
for operating a computer from a television-viewing distance. In one
aspect of the present invention, a user interface is provided that
has a display that includes at least one selectable link, which has
a functional identifier discernable by a user from a
television-viewing distance. Also included on the display is a
selectable-link marker that denotes a tentative selection of the
selectable link. The selectable-link marker lets the user know what
item on the display has the focus.
[0011] In another aspect of the invention, a method is provided for
displaying a distance user interface by activating the distance
user interface using a remote control from a television-viewing
distance. A command can be issued by the remote control to cause
the distance user interface to be displayed on the computer.
[0012] In another aspect of the present invention, a method for
processing user commands is provided by presenting a group of
selectable links that are discernable from a television-viewing
distance along with an indication that at least one of the links
has the focus.
[0013] In another aspect of the invention, a computer program
product is provided with computer code for presenting a graphical
user interface optimized to be viewed and operated from a
distance.
[0014] In still another aspect of the invention, a centralized
display is provided whereby a user can access a variety of digital
media via a computer such as pictures, music, recorded video, and
streaming video from a centralized area. A thumbnail-type area on
each screen of the DUI is provided to display a common media
presentation.
[0015] In still another aspect of the present invention, a system
for operating a computer from a television-viewing distance is
provided. The system includes a distance user interface, a computer
programmed to display the distance interface, a remote control, and
a signal receiving component to receive the remote control
transmission to enable the distance user interface to perform
operative functions in response to the transmission.
[0016] In a final aspect of the invention, a specialized remote
control is provided. This remote control can be used to toggle
between the distance user interface and a conventional user
interface, or any other interface of a computer system.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] The present invention is described in detail below with
reference to the attached drawing figures, wherein:
[0018] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a computing system environment
suitable for use in implementing the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 2 is a diagram of an exemplary operating environment
for practicing the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 2A is a functional diagram of an exemplary specialized
remote control for practicing the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 2B is an illustrative site map of a distance user
interface;
[0022] FIG. 3 is a diagram of an exemplary menu display of the
present invention;
[0023] FIG. 3A is an illustrative screen shot of the exemplary menu
display of FIG. 3;
[0024] FIG. 4 is a diagram of an exemplary television-viewing
display of the present invention;
[0025] FIG. 4A is an illustrative screen shot of the exemplary
television-viewing display of FIG. 4;
[0026] FIG. 4B is an illustrative screen shot of an exemplary
television programming guide display;
[0027] FIG. 4C is an illustrative screen shot of an exemplary
television recording display;
[0028] FIG. 5 is a diagram of an exemplary music listening display
of the present invention;
[0029] FIG. 5A is an illustrative screen shot of the exemplary
music listening display of FIG. 5;
[0030] FIG. 6 is a diagram of an exemplary pictures display of the
present invention;
[0031] FIG. 6A is an illustrative screen shot of the exemplary
pictures display of FIG. 6;
[0032] FIG. 7 is a diagram of an exemplary videos display of the
present invention;
[0033] FIG. 7A is an illustrative screen shot of the exemplary
videos display of FIG. 7;
[0034] FIG. 8 is a diagram of an exemplary settings display of the
present invention; and
[0035] FIG. 8A is an illustrative screen shot of the exemplary
settings display of FIG. 8.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0036] The present invention provides a new user interface, a
distance user interface, to enable PC operation from a
television-viewing distance. In one embodiment of the present
invention, a user displays the distance user interface by issuing a
command from a remote control that is received by the computer. The
distance user interface is displayed with a menu of available
selectable options, or links. The distance user interface is
optimized to be viewed from a television-viewing distance. When
followed, these selectable links take a user to other displays
topically related to functional identifiers on the menu display. A
more in-depth description of the present invention will be provided
below.
[0037] Having briefly described an embodiment of the present
invention, an exemplary operating environment for the present
invention is described below.
[0038] Exemplary Operating Environment
[0039] Referring to the drawings in general and initially to FIG. 1
in particular, wherein like reference numerals identify like
components in the various figures, an exemplary operating
environment for implementing the present invention is shown and
designated generally as operating environment 100. The computing
system environment 100 is only one example of a suitable computing
environment and is not intended to suggest any limitation as to the
scope of use or functionality of the invention. Neither should the
computing environment 100 be interpreted as having any dependency
or requirement relating to any one or combination of components
illustrated in the exemplary operating environment 100.
[0040] The invention may be described in the general context of
computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, being
executed by a computer. Generally, program modules include
routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc.,
that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data
types. Moreover, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the
invention may be practiced with a variety of computer system
configurations, including hand-held devices, multiprocessor
systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics,
minicomputers, mainframe computers, and the like. The invention may
also be practiced in distributed computing environments where tasks
are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through
a communications network. In a distributed computing environment,
program modules may be located in both local and remote computer
storage media including memory storage devices.
[0041] With reference to FIG. 1, an exemplary system 100 for
implementing the invention includes a general purpose computing
device in the form of a computer 110 including a processing unit
120, a system memory 130, and a system bus 121 that couples various
system components including the system memory to the processing
unit 120.
[0042] Computer 110 typically includes a variety of computer
readable media. By way of example, and not limitation, computer
readable media may comprise computer storage media and
communication media. Examples of computer storage media include,
but are not limited to, RAM, ROM, electronically erasable
programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other
memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other
optical or holographic disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic
tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or
any other medium which can be used to store the desired information
and which can be accessed by computer 110. The system memory 130
includes computer storage media in the form of volatile and/or
nonvolatile memory such as read only memory (ROM) 131 and random
access memory (RAM) 132. A basic input/output system 133 (BIOS),
containing the basic routines that help to transfer information
between elements within computer 110, such as during start-up, is
typically stored, in ROM 131. RAM 132 typically contains data
and/or program modules that are immediately accessible to and/or
presently being operated on by processing unit 120. By way of
example, and not limitation, FIG. 1 illustrates operating system
134, application programs 135, other program modules 136, and
program data 137.
[0043] The computer 110 may also include other
removable/nonremovable, volatile/nonvolatile computer storage
media. By way of example only, FIG. 1 illustrates a hard disk drive
141 that reads from or writes to nonremovable, nonvolatile magnetic
media, a magnetic disk drive 151 that reads from or writes to a
removable, nonvolatile magnetic disk 152, and an optical disk drive
155 that reads from or writes to a removable, nonvolatile optical
disk 156 such as a CD ROM or other optical media. Other
removable/nonremovable, volatile/nonvolatile computer storage media
that can be used in the exemplary operating environment include,
but are not limited to, magnetic tape cassettes, flash memory
cards, digital versatile disks, digital video tape, solid state
RAM, solid state ROM, and the like. The hard disk drive 141 is
typically connected to the system bus 121 through a nonremovable
memory interface such as interface 140, and magnetic disk drive 151
and optical disk drive 155 are typically connected to the system
bus 121 by a removable memory interface, such as interface 150.
[0044] The drives and their associated computer storage media
discussed above and illustrated in FIG. 1, provide storage of
computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules
and other data for the computer 110. In FIG. 1, for example, hard
disk drive 141 is illustrated as storing operating system 144,
application programs 145, other program modules 146, and program
data 147. Note that these components can either be the same as or
different from operating system 134, application programs 135,
other program modules 136, and program data 137. Typically, the
operating system, application programs and the like that are stored
in RAM are portions of the corresponding systems, programs, or data
read from hard disk drive 141, the portions varying in size and
scope depending on the functions desired. Operating system 144,
application programs 145, other program modules 146, and program
data 147 are given different numbers here to illustrate that, at a
minimum, they are different copies. A user may enter commands and
information into the computer 110 through input devices such as a
keyboard 162; pointing device 161, commonly referred to as a mouse,
trackball or touch pad; and an infrared transceiver 163. Other
input devices (not shown) may include a microphone, joystick, game
pad, satellite dish, scanner, or the like. These and other input
devices are often connected to the processing unit 120 through a
user input interface 160 that is coupled to the system bus 121, but
may be connected by other interface and bus structures, such as a
parallel port, game port or a universal serial bus (USB). A display
device 191 is also connected to the system bus 121 via an
interface, such as a video interface 190. Video interface 190 could
also accept in incoming video signal 189. Display device 191 can be
any device to display the output of computer 110 not limited to a
monitor, an LCD screen, a TFT screen, a flat panel display, a
conventional television, or screen projector. In addition to the
display device 191, computers may also include other peripheral
output devices such as speakers 197 and printer 196, which may be
connected through an output peripheral interface 195.
[0045] The computer 110 in the present invention will operate in a
networked environment using logical connections to one or more
remote computers, such as a remote computer 180. The remote
computer 180 may be a personal computer, and typically includes
many or all of the elements described above relative to the
computer 110, although only a memory storage device 181 has been
illustrated in FIG. 1. The logical connections depicted in FIG. 1
include a local area network (LAN) 171 and a wide area network
(WAN) 173 but may also include other networks.
[0046] When used in a LAN networking environment, the computer 110
is connected to the LAN 171 through a network interface or adapter
170. When used in a WAN networking environment, the computer 110
typically includes a modem 172 or other means for establishing
communications over the WAN 173, such as the Internet. The modem
172, which may be internal or external, may be connected to the
system bus 121 via the user input interface 160, or other
appropriate mechanism. In a networked environment, program modules
depicted relative to the computer 110, or portions thereof, may be
stored in the remote memory storage device. By way of example, and
not limitation, FIG. 1 illustrates remote application programs 185
as residing on memory device 181. It will be appreciated that the
network connections shown are exemplary and other means of
establishing a communications link between the computers may be
used.
[0047] Although many other internal components of the computer 110
are not shown, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate
that such components and the interconnection are well known. For
example, including various expansion cards such as television tuner
cards and network interface cards within a computer 110 is
conventional. Accordingly, additional details concerning the
internal construction of the computer 110 need not be disclosed in
connection with the present invention.
[0048] When the computer 110 is turned on or reset, the BIOS 133,
which is stored in the ROM 131 instructs the processing unit 120 to
load the operating system, or necessary portion thereof, from the
hard disk drive 141 into the RAM 132. Once the copied portion of
the operating system, designated as operating system 144, is loaded
in RAM 132, the processing unit 120 executes the operating system
code and causes the visual elements associated with the user
interface of the operating system 134 to be displayed on the
monitor 191. Typically, when an application program 145 is opened
by a user, the program code and relevant data are read from the
hard disk drive 141 and the necessary portions are copied into RAM
132, the copied portion represented herein by reference numeral
135.
[0049] System and Method for Providing a Distance User
Interface
[0050] As previously mentioned, the present invention may be
described in the general context of computer-executable
instructions such as program modules, executed by one or more
computers or other devices. Generally, program modules include
routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc.,
that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data
types. Typically, the functionality of the program modules may be
combined or distributed as desired in various embodiments.
[0051] Throughout this document, the term "TV" or "television" is
used. "TV," although technically short for "television," has come
to be associated with cable television, satellite television,
high-definition television, and other forms of streaming media.
Most cable television providers even provide channels dedicated to
music only. At least these expanded definitions are contemplated
within the use of "TV" herein. The term "TV" is not meant to be
limiting but rather contemplates any media viewed on a display
device provided by a content provider.
[0052] Turning now to FIG. 2, an exemplary system environment for
practicing the present invention is referenced generally by the
numeral 200. A distance user interface (DUI) 210 is displayed on
display device 191. DUI 210 can also be displayed on other display
devices coupled to computer 110. DUI 210 is a graphical user
interface designed to be operated by an end-user 214 from a
television-viewing distance. In a preferred embodiment, DUI 210 is
displayed on a display device 191 with a resolution of 1,024 X 768
pixels and a visual screen area 212 of approximately sixteen
inches, which is consistent with a 17" monitor. Visual screen area
212 is a measure of the diagonal of the actual image displayed on
display device 191. The actual image display area has a display
perimeter 222, which is the perimeter of the outermost viewable
pixels.
[0053] DUI 210 is operated by end-user 214 using a remote control
216 capable of transmitting a wireless signal 218 from a
television-viewing distance 220. Television-viewing distance 220 is
an estimate of a distance end-user 214 would observe a television
having a display area approximately the same size as visible screen
area 212. Television-viewing distance 220 can vary based on the
visual screen area 212 available for a particular display device
191. For example, a television-viewing distance may be
approximately eight to twelve feet for a display device 191 having
a visible screen area 212 of approximately sixteen inches at a
resolution of 1,024.times.768. This means that the DUI 210 can be
comfortably viewed from a distance of about eight feet on a 17-inch
CRT monitor.
[0054] The wireless signal 218 is received by a wireless signal
receiver 163 coupled to computer 110. The wireless signal receiver
163 could be adapted to receive a variety of signals; for example
infrared, radio, or wireless LAN signals.
[0055] DUI 210 is designed to provide a centralized display where
an end-user 214 can easily access a variety of media content stored
on computer 110. In a preferred embodiment, a single screen
provides links to such content as digital pictures, digital videos,
digital music, and streaming video including television
programming, satellite programming, Internet programming,
time-delayed recordings, and other recordings embodied on a
computer readable medium. A music repository 223 stores audio
content and is not limited to musical recordings. Any form of audio
such as dictations can also be stored in music repository 223.
Similarly, a photograph repository 224 and video repository 226 are
in connection with computer 110 to store and retrieve photographs
and videos. A repository for storing other media 228 is also
included for storing an array of content and media formats. Each
repository 223, 224, 226, and 228 preferably reside on hard drive
141.
[0056] Conventional video cards can typically include inputs to
receive a composite video signal or a signal delivered via coaxial
wire. Accordingly, any signal that can be inputted at least via the
aforementioned inputs can be displayed on display device 191.
Alternatively, the DUI 210 can be displayed on a device other than
display device 191 such as auxiliary display device 230.
[0057] Turning now to FIG. 2A, an exemplary specialized remote
control 216 is shown. The remote control 216 depicted in FIG. 2A is
shown for functional purposes only. It is not meant to imply any
physical design restraints or limitations. The specialized remote
control 216 can operate the computer 110 from at least a
television-viewing distance. The remote control has circuitry built
into it such that by pressing a button, such as a DUI Switching
Button 232, the DUI 210 is toggled on and off. When turned on, the
DUI 210 enables remote operation from a television-viewing distance
220. When turned off, DUI 210 is not shown and computer 110
displays a conventional 2'UI, an arm's-length user interface. DUI
210 can be toggled on and off in a variety of ways. In a preferred
embodiment, DUI 210 responds to the source of input. DUI 210 can be
configured to be displayed when input from a wirelessly connected
device is sensed. For example, when a button on the remote control
216 is pressed, DUI 210 senses the source of input as being the
remote control 216 and consequently activates itself. In a
preferred embodiment, the DUI 210 acts as an overlay user interface
which works in tandem with various I/O devices to either display
the DUI 210 or a 2'UI. For instance, when input from a wired
keyboard 162 or mouse 161 is received, the 2'UI is displayed to
end-user 214. Conversely, if the keyboard 162 were a wireless
keyboard, DUI 210 could be displayed instead.
[0058] Also included on remote control 216 is a set of navigation
buttons 234 to control the focus of the DUI 210. An item on the DUI
210 has the focus when it is ready to receive input from an input
device such as the keyboard or mouse, but in this case the remote
control 216. A group of functional buttons 236, for example On/Off,
Pause, Frame Advance and Back, Fast Forward, Rewind, Skip Ahead,
Instant Replay, Slow Motion, Advance to End/Beginning, Jump/Live
TV, Record, and Stop can also be provided on remote control
216.
[0059] An exemplary site map of DUI 210 is provided in FIG. 2B and
is referenced generally by the numeral 240. The exemplary site map
240 of DUI 210 is not meant to be limiting, but rather to convey an
illustrative view of a DUI 210. Although the details of the screens
and selectable links of site map 240 will be explained in greater
detail, site map 240 illustrates that DUI 210 is comprised of a
main menu, which has a first level of options such as TV, MUSIC,
PICTURES, VIDEO, and SETTINGS. Each of these options from the first
level has at least a second level of options that can lead to still
other screens. For instance, MAIN MENU.fwdarw.TV.fwdarw.GUIDE
brings up a guide. Site map 240 does not depict all levels
available in DUI 210, but rather depicts a simplified overview of a
possible hierarchical structure of DUI 210.
[0060] Turning now to FIG. 3, a main menu display is referenced
generally by numeral 300. Main menu display 300 is an exemplary
display that is first shown to end-user 214 when engaging the DUI
210. Main menu display 300 has a DUI perimeter 222 that consumes
the viewable area of a display device in a preferred embodiment.
Main menu display 300 includes a first group of selectable links
310 including a first selectable link 312. First selectable link
312 includes a functional identifier 312A. As shown, one function
of first selectable link 312 is to view streaming media, such as
television. An exemplary functional identifier 312A is shown as "My
TV." This link could also be used to view a video, a DVD, satellite
television, an Internet web-cast, CATV, a surveillance camera
image, or to play a game, conduct instant messaging, browse the
internet, listen to music, display photographs, or to present a
host of other services via the interface optimized to be viewed and
operated from a television-viewing distance 220. Functional
identifier 312A is not limited to a textual description. For
example, an icon representing a television could also be a
functional identifier. The functional identifier 312A could be any
text or symbol that identifies the function associating with
following first selectable link 312.
[0061] Also included on main menu display 300 is a selectable-link
marker 314. Selectable-link marker 314 denotes a tentative
selection, or the focus, by end-user 214. Using remote control 216,
an end-user 214 can control the focus of different items using
navigation buttons 234. An item has the focus when it is
tentatively selected such that selecting a link will follow that
link. As shown in FIG. 3, the "My TV" link 312 currently has the
focus. The selectable link marker 314 can take on a variety of
forms. In a preferred embodiment, the selectable link marker 314 is
provided in color, a background color different from the other
colors of the other selectable links. For instance, each of the
links in selectable link group 310 could have a background color of
blue except for the link that has the focus, e.g., the "My TV" link
312, which has a background color of green. Main menu display 300
could also include second, third, fourth and fifth selectable links
316, 318, 320 and 322, respectively.
[0062] Second selectable link 316 provides a link to play music or
other audio on the computer system 100 and includes a music
functional identifier 316A such as "My Music," discernable from the
television-viewing distance 220. Again, and as with all functional
identifiers, music functional identifier 316A is not limited to a
textual display but could be an icon or symbol that conveys to
end-user 214 that following the link will permit the playing of
digital music. Third selectable link 318 allows end-user 214 to
view pictures stored on computer system 100 and includes a third
functional identifier 318A such as "My Pictures" discernable from
the television-viewing distance. Fourth selectable link 320 permits
end-user 214 to display previously recorded material on the
computer 110 and includes a fourth functional identifier 320A such
as "My Videos," discernable from television-viewing distance 220.
Main menu display 300 can also include a fifth selectable link 322
for manipulating the settings of the DUI 210 having a fifth
functional identifier 322A such as "Settings," discernable from
television-viewing distance 220.
[0063] Main menu display 300 also preferably includes a
"now-playing" area 324 permitting an end-user 214 to persistently
view currently playing media while navigating the various displays
of DUI 210. This feature intelligently reduces currently playing
media to a thumbnail size while an end-user 214 navigates the DUI
210. For example, if a user were to follow the "My TV" selectable
link 312, choose a program to watch, and then navigate back to the
menu display 300, the program is reduced to play in the now-playing
area 324. This feature enables an end-user 214 to continue to enjoy
currently playing content while linking to other displays. Although
it could, the now-playing area 324 does not appear while viewing
video full screen nor while playing a slide show in the preferred
embodiment. An exemplary screen shot of menu display 300 is
depicted in FIG. 3A.
[0064] Turning now to FIG. 4, following the "My TV" selectable link
312 presents the end-user 214 with a second display, a display for
viewing television or other streaming media, and is referenced
generally by the numeral 400. Television display 400 has DUI
perimeter 222 that consumes the viewable area in a preferred
embodiment. A television-viewing display area 410 is included on
television display 400. Television display area 410 provides the
ability for users to watch streaming video such as television
programming, cable programming, satellite programming, web-casts,
and stored video such as home videos, time-delayed recordings, and
DVD movies. Any other type of programming provided by a content
provider capable of being inputted into computer system 100 can be
viewed in television display area 410, which can be maximized to
occupy all of DUI perimeter 222. Television display area 410 is
shown by illustration as consuming only a portion of television
display 400 to more easily describe other functions available.
[0065] Also included on television display 400 is a group of
selectable links 412 with corresponding functional identifiers
discernable from television viewing-distance 220. Exemplary
selectable links include a "Guide" link 414, a "Recorded TV" link
416, a TV "Search" link 418 and a TV "Settings" link 420. Following
the "Recorded TV" link 416 allows a user to view previously
recorded media content. Television is not the only form of media
content that can be recorded by "Recorded TV" link 416. Rather, any
media provided by a content provider such as CATV, satellite,
web-casts, or pay-per-view programing is contemplated within the
scope of the present invention.
[0066] "Guide" link 414 includes a guide link identifier 414A such
as "Guide." A TV guide selectable link marker 415 denotes which
link has the focus on television display 400. As with all
selectable link markers, TV selectable link marker 415 could take
on a variety of forms. As shown, TV selectable link marker 415 has
a background color different from those links which do not have the
focus. For example, TV selectable link marker 415 could have a
background color of green while the other selectable links are
blue.
[0067] The "Recorded TV" link 416 includes a recorded television
link identifier 416A such as "Recorded TV." Television search link
418 includes a television search link identifier 418A such as
"Search." Television "Settings" link 420 includes a television link
identifier 420A such as "Settings." As depicted in FIG. 4, each of
the functional identifiers are text, however the identifiers need
not be text. Rather, the functional identifiers could be icons or
symbols associated with the functions performed by each selectable
link. To help end-user 214 know what program is being viewed, a
programming data area 422 is provided below television-viewing area
410. Programming data area 422 could provide many levels and types
of data regarding the currently viewed program as well as a
description of programming available on different channels. For
example, programming data area 422 includes the title of the
current program, its run-time, and the channel being viewed. A
screen shot 424 of an exemplary television display 400 is provided
in FIG. 4A.
[0068] Following the "Guide" link 414 presents the end-user 214
with a listing of television programming, discernable from
television-viewing distance 220. A screen shot of an exemplary
listing is depicted in FIG. 4B and is referenced generally by
numeral 426. The "Guide" could include show times and channels as
well a description of programming shows, or paid advertisements.
Depending on the remote control 216 button pressed, selecting a
program from the "Guide" 426 allows the user to view the program or
takes a user to a screen where an option is presented to record the
program.
[0069] An exemplary recording display is depicted in FIG. 4C and is
referenced generally by numeral 428. A variety of recording options
are preferably made available via the recording display 428 such as
recording a series, only first runs, a certain number of episodes,
and/or on certain channels. Administrative settings can also be
adjusted, for example duration to retain, recording quality, start
time and stop time. Recordings are retained in video repository 226
for later playback, and are accessed via the "Recorded TV" link
416. Live TV can be routed through a buffer to permit pausing and
instant replaying of live television in a computer system.
[0070] Following TV "Search" link 418, the present invention
presents a prompt whereby end-user 214 can enter search criteria to
find programs of choice. End-user 214 can search for any item found
in the television "Guide" 426. End-user 214 is preferably presented
with various search options such as Categories, Title, and Keyword.
By providing the ability for users to search available programming,
the present invention provides a fast method of locating features
of interest.
[0071] Returning briefly to FIG. 3, second selectable link on menu
display 300 is shown as the "My Music" selectable link 316. This
link can be any link that permits users to peruse various music
files stored on computer 110 from a distance. Turning now to FIG.
5, following the music selectable link 316 takes a user to a music
listening display referenced generally by numeral 500. Music
listening display 500 has DUI perimeter 222 that consumes the
viewable area in a preferred embodiment. Music listening display
500 includes a music selectable link 510 for accepting a request to
play a recording of music stored in music repository 223 on
computer 110. A music selection identifier 512 is also included on
music display area 500 and is discernable from the television
viewing-distance 220. The music selection identifier 512 indicates
a tentative selection and indicates what song, album, play-list,
etc., is currently playing. The music selection identifier 512 can
take on many forms, such as an icon or marker next to the currently
playing song or, as depicted in FIG. 5, a highlighted selectable
link. A picture of album art 514 can also be displayed to a user on
the music display 500, as well as a track title identifier 515, and
artist identifier 516.
[0072] Also included on music display area 500 is a group of music
selectable links 518 enabling end-user 214 to easily navigate
through the music stored in music repository 223 from
television-viewing distance 220. Exemplary music selectable links
include an "Albums" selectable link 520, an "Artists" selectable
link 522, a "Playlists" selectable link 524, a "Singles" selectable
link 526, a "Genres" selectable link 528 and a "Find" selectable
link 530. Each music selectable link includes a music selectable
link identifier similar to the aforementioned link identifiers and
is referred to generally by numeral 531. The music selectable link
identifiers 531 are discernable from television-viewing distance
220.
[0073] When the find music selectable link 530 is followed, the
present invention presents a search form used to locate music
stored on the computer system in the music repository 223. Although
many methods are possible, in a preferred embodiment music searches
are conducted based on a keyword search. An exemplary screen shot
of a music listening area 500 is provided in FIG. 5A.
[0074] Returning briefly to FIG. 3, following the "My Pictures"
display link 318 presents a user with a pictures display area as
shown in FIG. 6 and referenced generally by the numeral 600.
Pictures display area has DUI perimeter 222 representing the
preferred, maximized screen area. Pictures stored in the photograph
repository 224 can be accessed via the pictures display 600.
Photograph repository 224 can be a collection of digital
photographs stored on computer 110. Photograph repository 224 could
simply be the hard drive of computer 110. Included on picture
display 600 are thumbnail previews of various pictures stored in
photograph repository 224. These thumbnails are discernable from
television-viewing distance 220, at least enough to generally
recognize the content of the picture. A single picture thumbnail
610 is a small display of a larger picture Each thumbnail picture
610 includes a picture identifier 612 such as "Favorite Pictures"
or "Crew." Picture identifiers 612 need not be purely textual, but
could be symbols or icons as well. A picture marker 613 denotes
which item has the focus on picture display 600. The picture marker
613 can be an outline around a picture, as shown, but could also be
any symbol or mark to denote which picture has the focus.
[0075] Using remote control 216, an end-user 214 can select an
available thumbnail 610 to view the picture full-screen. Also
available on pictures display 600 are thumbnails of picture folders
614. A picture folder thumbnail 614 depicts a small sampling
preview of pictures 614A available within a specific folder. When
an end-user 214 clicks on a folder thumbnail 614, the various
pictures 614A within that folder 614 are displayed as individual
picture thumbnails 610. Also included on picture display 600 is a
group of pictures selectable links 615 for controlling the viewing
of various pictures in photograph repository 224. Exemplary
pictures selectable links include a "Play Slide Show" selectable
link 616, a "Settings" selectable link 618, a "Sort by Name"
selectable link 620, a "Sort by Date" selectable link 622, a "My
Pictures" selectable link 624 and a "Shared Pictures" selectable
link 626.
[0076] The "Play Slide Show" selectable link 616 can be navigated
to by end-user 214 and, when followed, presents an automatic
display of a group of pictures stored on the computer system 100.
Following pictures "Settings" link 618 allows a user to modify
certain display options of pictures display area 600. Selecting the
"Sort by Name" selectable link 620 sorts the various thumbnails 610
and 614 in alphabetical order. Selecting the "Sort by Date"
selectable link 622 sorts the thumbnails 610 and 614 by date. The
"My Pictures" selectable link 624 is a link that can display a
certain folder's contents, such as the "My Pictures" folder found
within the WINDOWS Operating System. Similarly, the "Shared
Pictures" link 626 can be used to display thumbnail previews of
pictures within a certain directory such as a "My Pictures"
directory. It is understood to one of ordinary skill in the art
that various folders could be preconfigured in addition to the "My
Pictures" folder. Also included on the pictures display area 600 is
the now playing area 324 with the now playing identifier 324A. A
screen shot of an exemplary pictures display area 600 is provided
in FIG. 6A.
[0077] Again, returning briefly to FIG. 3, following the "My
Videos" selectable link 320 from menu display 300, a user is
presented with a videos display referenced generally by the numeral
700 in FIG. 7. Videos display 700 includes a video thumbnail
preview 710 of an available video stored in video repository 226,
which can be hard drive 141. As the user shifts focus from various
thumbnails of videos in display area 700, a video marker 712 can be
presented to the end-user 214 indicating which item has the focus.
The video marker 712 is provided to indicate which item has the
focus of video display 700. Videos display 700 also includes a
title bar 716 for displaying a title of a video observable from
television-viewing distance 220. Also included in videos display
700 are a group of videos selectable links including a videos "Sort
by Name" link 718, a videos "Sort by Date" link 720, a "My Videos"
link 722, and a "Shared Videos" selectable link 726. Each of the
aforementioned selectable links includes selectable link
identifiers referenced generally by the numeral 728. The selectable
link identifiers 728 need not be text but could be icons or
symbols. Also depicted, for the first time, in FIG. 7 are two
status bars including a now playing status bar 730 and a general
status bar 734. The now playing status bar 730 includes a group of
now playing buttons 732 to control what is being played in the now
playing window 324. This now playing status bar 730 could be
displayed only when a user presses a certain button on remote
control 216 or directs a cursor to the lower left-hand portion of
whichever screen the user is on. The second bar displayed on FIG. 7
(but which can be displayed on any of the aforementioned screens)
is the general status bar 734. The general status bar 734 can also
be displayed pressing a certain button on remote control 216 or can
be displayed in response to moving the cursor to the top of DUI
perimeter 222. Specialty buttons can be included on status bar 734
including a help button 736, a back button 738 or a Windows
specialty button 740. An exemplary screen shot of videos display
700 is shown in FIG. 7A.
[0078] Following the "Settings" selectable link 322, as shown in
FIG. 3, leads a user to a "Settings" display referenced generally
by the numeral 800 in FIG. 8. Included on "Settings" display 800 is
a group of settings selectable links 816. A "Global" selectable
link 810 modifies global settings, a "TV" selectable link 812
modifies TV settings and a "Pictures" selectable link 814 modifies
settings related to displaying digital photographs. Each of these
selectable links has a selectable link identifier referenced
generally by the numeral 816. A "Settings" selectable link marker
818 denotes which selectable link has the focus. As with almost
every other screen of the DUI, the now playing thumbnail 324 and
corresponding identifier 324A can be displayed on "Settings"
display 800. An exemplary screen shot of "Settings" display 800 is
provided in FIG. 8A.
[0079] As can be understood, the method and system allow a user
view and operate a computer from a television-viewing distance. In
addition, a centralized display for enjoying media content on a
computer is made possible by the present invention.
[0080] The present invention has been described in relation to
particular embodiments, which are intended in all respects to be
illustrative rather than restrictive. Alternative embodiments will
become apparent to those skilled in the art to which the present
invention pertains without departing from its scope.
[0081] From the foregoing, it will be seen that this invention is
one well adapted to attain all the ends and objects set forth
above, together with other advantages which are obvious and
inherent to the system and method. It will be understood that
certain features and sub-combinations are of utility and may be
employed without reference to other features and sub-combinations.
This is contemplated and with the scope of the claims.
* * * * *