Showing papers on "Remote control published in 1996"

Telephonically programmable apparatus

Abstract: To initialize a remote control device for use in a particular installation, initialization parameters are entered relating to the relationship between user input codes and equipment to be controlled. In the preferred embodiment involving video recorder equipment, the initialization procedure concerns the video channels available to the recorder and remote control codes associated with the operation of the recorder using a receive-only modem on the device attached to a phone jack, initialization is performed by dialing up a remote location with a touch tone phone. At the remote end a computer sends selected audio response signals to the telephone receiver requesting that the user key in information using the touch tone pad. The computer then transmits the appropriate signals to the memory of the remote device to initialize it.

Method and system for on demand downloading of module to enable remote control of an application program over a network

Abstract: The system and method is disclosed for remotely controlling an application program over a network. The system includes an application interception module and remote display module. The remote display module is transported across the network and executed on the user system in response to a user's request to provide on-demand remote control of an application program. The application interception module captures an I/O stream generated by an application program, converts it to remote control protocol messages and transports them across a network to the remote display module executing in the user system. The remote display module converts the remote control protocol messages to system calls compatible with the operating system environment for the users computer. Likewise, the remote display module converts system calls to the local resource interface in the user's computer to remote control protocol messages which are transported across the network to the application interception module. The application interception module interface converts the remote control protocol messages to system calls for the application program. In this manner, output from the application program is provided to the user's computer and input actions at the user's computer are provided to the application program. Preferably, the remote display modules and application programs are presented through HTTP servers over a network to a user's system which uses a browser having a JAVA interpreter to execute the remote display module and convert the remote control protocol messages.

Interactive television system for implementing electronic polling or providing user-requested services based on identification of users or of remote control apparatuses which are employed by respective users to communicate with the system

Abstract: An interactive television system which can provide services such as entertainment programs to users or conduct electronic polls of users, formed of a central computer installation, a plurality of terminal apparatuses each bidirectionally communicating with the central computer installation via a CATV network and each providing video/audio inputs to a display apparatus, with each of the terminal apparatuses being linked to one or more remote control apparatuses whereby users can request services or participate in polling, and in which any message data such as a service request which is issued by a remote control apparatus is automatically accompanied by identifier information, read out from a memory of the remote control apparatus, for identifying that remote control apparatus, and may also be accompanied by personal information concerning a registered user of the remote control apparatus. User recognition can be implemented by an arrangement such as a plug-in IC card interface section or fingerprint recognition section, for enabling restriction of each remote control apparatus to use by only a specific registered user, or to enable only a specific registered user to access certain services.

Remote control system in which a plurality of remote control units are managed by a single remote control device

Abstract: A remote control system which can control a plurality of remote control units (RCUs) The remote control system includes a first memory for storing an RCU identification code for each of the remote control units, a second memory for storing a maker identification code for the remote control apparatus corresponding to the RCU identification code, a model code, and a remote control code The system further includes a device for reading an active remote control code from the second memory on the basis of the RCU identification code read from the first memory according to the apparatus control request from an active remote control unit Electromagnetic waves or infrared rays act as a second modulated wave which is modulated on the basis of the active remote control code in order to control the function of the remote control apparatus corresponding to the active remote control code The plurality of remote control units are managed by a single remote control reception and processing device

Methods and systems for providing information to a television using a personal computer

Abstract: A personal computer is used to download and process auxiliary services which are intended for a television. Accordingly, information is provided to a television using a personal computer, so that the personal computer's processing power and memory may be used rather than stand-alone devices or a television memory. An external network interface is provided in the computer, as well as a low power television transmitter or transceiver. A unified television/personal computer remote control provides personal computer commands to the personal computer via radio frequency signals. Television commands may be provided to the television directly using infrared signals or indirectly through the personal computer using radio frequency signals. When television commands are provided using radio frequency signals, an infrared converter is provided for the television, to convert the radio frequency signals to infrared signals.

Control of remote devices using http protocol

Abstract: Control of remote devices is achieved by having httpd (Web server) on a dedicated firmware device. A firmware device with a httpd (Web server) programmed into its memory takes commands from a remote http client (Web client). The firmware sends interface information to the target device with electronic, electromagnetic, or infrared signals to control the target device. The firmware may be integrated into an IC chip so product makers can have the same remote control capability within their product.

Remote control system and method

Abstract: Remote control system and method for preventing the mixing of signals from remote manipulation devices and consolidately operating controlled devices including the remote manipulation devices comprise controlled devices including a plurality of remote manipulation devices, an image input device, a monitor device and a record device, and a computer. The computer transmits a transmission permission signal for permitting the transmission of the remote manipulation device having an ID code through the controlled device, and the remote manipulation device having the coincident ID code responds to the reception of the transmission permission signal to transmit a control signal to the controlled device. The computer 107 interprets a control command from the control signal received through the controlled device and transmits the control command to the controlled device. The controlled device responds to the control command to execute it. Accordingly, the simultaneous transmission of control commands by more than one remote manipulation devices is avoided and the mixing of the signals is prevented.

Power distribution system control network

Abstract: The power distribution control system of the present invention provides a distributed intelligence, data acquisition and control system which collects and analyzes large amounts of data representing power usage from a power distribution substation and remote control units spread throughout a power distribution network. The system also provides the capability of various control functions for the substation and remote locations such as capacitor banks and pole switches along a distribution line. The system provides communications capabilities between local devices and also with remote control units. The system provides real time monitoring of power usage and real time control of various functions in the power distribution network.

Apparatus for the remote control of electronic devices with key allocation

Abstract: A method for the remote control of at least one electronic device (10 to 25) is proposed in which the control data are transmitted from a remote control device (27) to the electronic device (10 to 25). In the method, information data at least regarding the remote control functions of the electronic device (10 to 25) to be controlled are transmitted to the remote control device (27). These information data are stored in the remote control device (27) and called on during a control operation in order to select and transmit the control data necessary for the respective control operation. At least the device identification number (GID) and the device type are transmitted to the remote control automatically, for example after the connection of the electronic device to the power supply system. Furthermore, an apparatus for the remote control of an electronic device is proposed, as well as an electronic device.

Remote control and robots: an Internet solution

Abstract: The development of remote control is discussed with reference to the control of robots. The new opportunities for control that are offered by the Internet are evaluated and the range of potential applications are considered. The specification of remotely controlled instrumentation is investigated and the concept of autonomy and supervisory control is discussed with particular reference to the Bradford Robotic Telescope.

Interactive graphics overlay on video images for entertainment

Abstract: A video entertainment system includes a video display device and a user interface unit connected for operation in conjunction with the video display device to receive a television image and to display the television image on the video display device. The system also includes a remote control handset having viewer-actuable controls. The remote control handset sends commands to the user interface unit in response to actuation of the viewer-actuable controls. The user interface unit has a graphics overlay component which is programmable to display entertainment images on the video display device overlying the received television image. The user interface unit has a viewer participation program that a viewer can initiate with the remote control handset. The viewer participation program allows the viewer to use the remote control handset to draw, "drop," or "throw" designs or pre-rendered graphics on top of the television image. Further aspects of the invention include the ability to attach a pre-rendered image to a moving point within a television image so that the pre-rendered image moves with the moving point. Using this capability, the viewer can attach, for example, a hat to someone's head, and the hat will stay on the person's head regardless of the person's movement within the television frame.

Double-wide television set having double-deck videocassette recorder and CD-OK system and method of controlling the same using graphic-remote controller

Abstract: A double-wide television set is integrated together with a double-deck videocassette recorder and a CD-OK system. Selection of operating modes and flow of signals among portions of the integrated system is complex. Apparatus and a method of operation are provided to simplify the complex process of controlling the double-wide television set using a graphic-remote controller are provided. The graphic-remote controller is displayed on a sub-screen of the television set in response to an input from a special graphic-remote controller key on a simplified remote control. Using the selection keys on the simplified remote control to manipulate the images of the on-screen graphic-remote controller and its various control command graphics, the various possible operations of the television set may be manipulated by the user. Selection of control commands on the displayed control command graphics is accomplished by a pointing device such as a cursor.

Remote control system suitable for a vehicle and having remote transmitter verification

Abstract: A remote control system for a vehicle includes a controller for learning a unique code of a remote transmitter to define a learned remote transmitter capable of causing performance of a function associated with the vehicle, for example. The controller performs remote transmitter verification to generate an indication relating to whether a new uniquely coded remote transmitter has been learned by the controller. The remote control system is advantageously used, in one embodiment, for a vehicle security system. Transmitter verification may also be incorporated in a remote keyless entry system, remote engine starting system, and a door access system, for example. In one embodiment, the remote transmitter verification is based upon the controller being recently entered into the remote transmitter learning mode. According to another embodiment, the remote transmitter verification is based upon a number of learned remote transmitters, a change in that number, or a change in a learned code of a remote transmitter. The indication may be provided at the vehicle or remote therefrom by any of a light, a visual display, a vibration transducer, a speech message generator, and an audible signal generator, for example. The indication may be activated in response to an input or condition at the vehicle or remote therefrom. For example, the number of learned remote transmitters may be indicated by operating a valet switch of the security system in a predetermined pattern.

Remote control transmitter and method of operation

Abstract: A remote control transmitter capable of transmitting a coded signal for actuating a device connected to a remote receiver. The remote control transmitter includes a controller which actuates a transmitter element upon each activation of an activation switch. A first code generator generates a first code and a second code generator generates a second code. The controller automatically selects one of the first code and the second code for transmitting within the coded signal. The first and second codes are generated by multi-positionable switches, a serial data device, a code key memory or by rolling code encryption.

IR transmitter with integral magnetic-stripe credit card reader

Abstract: A television remote control unit including an IR (infra-red) transmitter with integral magnetic stripe credit card reader for transmitting IR signals to a remote interactive location such as a television set or a TV cable remote control box. The remote control unit permits the user to swipe a credit card through the credit card reader so as to generate credit card transaction signals for transmission to the remote interactive locations. The remote control unit can be used in an interactive environment such as a hotel casino, a cable TV home shopping network, or an off track betting (OTB) environment.

Keyboard with a wireless remote control receiver and a method of redefining a key function for remote control

Abstract: A keyboard for a personal computer system has a remote control function. The personal computer system has a keyboard unit for communicating with a main computer unit by using signal lines connected therebetween and generating a re-send signal when a communication request signal for remote control is provided from the main computer unit. A communication control section controls a communication of the keyboard unit with the main computer unit in response to the control signal, so as to allow the remote control receiver to receive information for redefining of a key function for the remote control. The keyboard can redefine a key function for remote control in accordance with several sorts of programs.

Enhanced remote control device

Abstract: An enhanced vehicle remote control system adds a new transmitter and a new receiver to an original remote control system. The new receiver is connected for direct operation of the original transmitter which is permanently installed in the vehicle. In response to signals from the original transmitter, the unmodified original receiver controls the same functions in the same way as before. The new receiver is also connected to control functions in the vehicle which were not controlled by the original remote control system.

Autonomous, teleoperated, and shared control of robot systems

Abstract: This paper illustrates how different modes of operation such as bilateral teleoperation, autonomous control, and shared control can be described and implemented using combinations of modules in the SMART robot control architecture. Telerobotics modes are characterized by different "grids" of SMART icons, where each icon represents a portion of run-time code that implements a passive control law. By placing strict requirements on the module's input-output behavior and using scattering theory to develop a passive sampling technique, a flexible, expansible telerobot architecture is achieved. An automatic code generation tool for generating SMART systems is also described.

Remote control system for ceiling fan and light

Abstract: An RF remote control system for operating a ceiling fan and its light is disclosed. The remote control system comprises a receiver and two remote controllers, each having different operating characteristics. The remote controllers use radio frequency (RF) transmission to send control signals to the receiver. The receiver utilizes a microprocessor to process the control signals from the remote controllers and to operate the ceiling fan and its light. The receiver also includes a power interruption feature, which allows the operation of the ceiling fan light without the use of the remote controllers.

Video receiver display, three axis remote control, and microcontroller for executing programs

Abstract: A video display, which may be a television receiver with associated set top device, an intelligent television receiver, or a personal computer system enabled for television display, has associated therewith a remote control of the three axis type which controls modification of the visual images displayed. The remote control cooperates with a microcontroller.

Apparatus and method for electronic confinement of animals

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method and apparatus for electronically confining an animal within one or more selected spaces within a selected area. Current pulses are directed around conducting perimeters surrounding the selected spaces. The animal to be confined is provided with a collar unit, which includes a sensor adapted to sense whether the animal approaches a conducting perimeter from inside the selected space or outside the selected space, and a correction unit adapted to provide correction to the animal in response to a sensor output. The portable unit reports to a central controller which selects a correction strategy, such as level of correction to be applied to the animal approaching the perimeter. The controller provides warnings to the user, including warnings for when the animal passes out of bounds, when the battery in the collar unit goes low and when the animal stays in a correction zone for too long. An additional feature of the invention includes the ability to connect a computer to the system for remote control and monitoring, and for maintaining a log of animal behavior.

Video Receiver Display and Three Axis Remote Control

Abstract: A video display, which may be a television receiver with associated set top device, an intelligent television receiver, or a personal computer system enabled for television display, has associated therewith a remote control of the three axis type which controls modification of the visual images displayed.

Remote control device and remote control method

Abstract: A remote control device has the function of receving FM multiplex broadcasting, stores the television program data transmitted from a broadcasting station into a television program memory, and displays the stored program data. In the television program memory, the broadcasting dates, channels, broadcasting start and end times, program names, and G codes are stored. When the user chooses the program the user wants to record from the displayed programs, the remote control code for reserving the selected program for recording will be transmitted to the videotape recorder, thereby making a reservation for recording.

Driver information system for motor vehicles with information and communications devices

Abstract: The system includes an IR bus system, e.g. with an Infrared Data Association or IRDA-bus for communications and data transfer between external components and a mobile telephone module. This arrangement forms part of the driver information system and serves as an interface for the accessory components. The infrared bus can be used to exchange information between the system/mobile telephone module and an external device such as a laptop computer. The bus can be used to access the system/mobile telephone for service and maintenance functions, for remote control of the car radio or for remote vehicle control, e.g. actuating alarms and locking devices.

Wireless remote control system for controlling an appliance

Abstract: A remote control system included a remote commander and a control apparatus. The remote commander includes a first transmitting unit for transmitting a first command signal modulated based on a first carrier frequency by a first radio transmission medium in response to an input operation. The control apparatus includes a receiving unit for receiving a radio transmission signal transmitted from the remote commander by a first radio transmission unit, and a second transmitting unit for transmitting a second command signal modulated based upon a second carrier frequency by a second radio transmission medium. This second command signal is to control an operation of an electronic appliance designated by the remote commander among a plurality of electronic appliances based upon an output signal derived from the receiving unit. A plurality of electronic appliances have such a receiving unit for receiving the second command signal outputted from the second transmitting unit of the control apparatus, and operations of these electronic appliances are controlled in response to the output signal issued from this receiving unit.

Learning-by-example programmable remote control system

Abstract: A system and method for programming a controller to learn a sequence of commands necessary to operate and control the functionality of one or more remote A/V system components. The system includes a remote control unit for transmitting command signals to a controller for processing. The controller includes a microprocessor chip able to learn by examples entered by a user during set-up. This information is used to interpret the command signals to construct the complete command string for operating the selected remote A/V component. Subsequently, the controller sends the command string information to an infrared repeater where it is directed to the selected A/V component. In essence, the user is provided with a consistent interface that is independent of the variability in codes and button sequences. During operation, the user simply enters a basic, predetermined command sequence in order to yield a desired function in the selected remote A/V component (such as changing the television channel).