US20090184926A1 - Touch-screen remote control for multimedia equipment - Google Patents

Touch-screen remote control for multimedia equipment Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20090184926A1
US20090184926A1 US12/274,301 US27430108A US2009184926A1 US 20090184926 A1 US20090184926 A1 US 20090184926A1 US 27430108 A US27430108 A US 27430108A US 2009184926 A1 US2009184926 A1 US 2009184926A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
programming
program
control system
screen
multimedia
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US12/274,301
Inventor
Lawrence Kates
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Nest Labs Inc
Original Assignee
Lawrence Kates
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Lawrence Kates filed Critical Lawrence Kates
Priority to US12/274,301 priority Critical patent/US20090184926A1/en
Assigned to Knobbe, Martens, Olson & Bear, LLP reassignment Knobbe, Martens, Olson & Bear, LLP SECURITY INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: KATES, LAWRENCE
Publication of US20090184926A1 publication Critical patent/US20090184926A1/en
Assigned to NEST LABS, INC. reassignment NEST LABS, INC. RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: KNOBBE, MARTENS, OLSON & BEAR LLP
Assigned to NEST LABS, INC. reassignment NEST LABS, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: KATES, LAWRENCE
Assigned to NEST LABS, INC. reassignment NEST LABS, INC. CORRECTIVE ASSIGNMENT TO CORRECT THE INADVERTENT ADDITION OF U.S. PATENT NO. 8,101,892 TO THE LIST. ALL OTHER NUMBERS REMAIN AS PREVIOUSLY RECORDED ON REEL 031658 FRAME 0093. ASSIGNOR(S) HEREBY CONFIRMS THE U.S. PATENT NO. 8,101,892 IS TO BE REMOVED. Assignors: KNOBBE, MARTENS, OLSON & BEAR LLP
Assigned to NEST LABS, INC. reassignment NEST LABS, INC. CORRECTIVE ASSIGNMENT TO CORRECT THE INADVERTENT PATENT NO. 8,101,892 TO BE REMOVED PREVIOUSLY RECORDED AT REEL: 031658 FRAME: 0179. ASSIGNOR(S) HEREBY CONFIRMS THE ASSIGNMENT. Assignors: KATES, LAWRENCE
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04Q—SELECTING
    • H04Q9/00—Arrangements in telecontrol or telemetry systems for selectively calling a substation from a main station, in which substation desired apparatus is selected for applying a control signal thereto or for obtaining measured values therefrom
    • H04Q9/04—Arrangements for synchronous operation
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
    • H04N21/4104—Peripherals receiving signals from specially adapted client devices
    • H04N21/4126—The peripheral being portable, e.g. PDAs or mobile phones
    • H04N21/41265—The peripheral being portable, e.g. PDAs or mobile phones having a remote control device for bidirectional communication between the remote control device and client device
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
    • H04N21/422—Input-only peripherals, i.e. input devices connected to specially adapted client devices, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
    • H04N21/42204—User interfaces specially adapted for controlling a client device through a remote control device; Remote control devices therefor
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
    • H04N21/422—Input-only peripherals, i.e. input devices connected to specially adapted client devices, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
    • H04N21/42204—User interfaces specially adapted for controlling a client device through a remote control device; Remote control devices therefor
    • H04N21/42206—User interfaces specially adapted for controlling a client device through a remote control device; Remote control devices therefor characterized by hardware details
    • H04N21/42208—Display device provided on the remote control
    • H04N21/42209—Display device provided on the remote control for displaying non-command information, e.g. electronic program guide [EPG], e-mail, messages or a second television channel
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
    • H04N21/422—Input-only peripherals, i.e. input devices connected to specially adapted client devices, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
    • H04N21/42204—User interfaces specially adapted for controlling a client device through a remote control device; Remote control devices therefor
    • H04N21/42206—User interfaces specially adapted for controlling a client device through a remote control device; Remote control devices therefor characterized by hardware details
    • H04N21/42221—Transmission circuitry, e.g. infrared [IR] or radio frequency [RF]
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
    • H04N21/422—Input-only peripherals, i.e. input devices connected to specially adapted client devices, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
    • H04N21/42204—User interfaces specially adapted for controlling a client device through a remote control device; Remote control devices therefor
    • H04N21/42206—User interfaces specially adapted for controlling a client device through a remote control device; Remote control devices therefor characterized by hardware details
    • H04N21/42222—Additional components integrated in the remote control device, e.g. timer, speaker, sensors for detecting position, direction or movement of the remote control, microphone or battery charging device
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
    • H04N21/422—Input-only peripherals, i.e. input devices connected to specially adapted client devices, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
    • H04N21/42204—User interfaces specially adapted for controlling a client device through a remote control device; Remote control devices therefor
    • H04N21/42206—User interfaces specially adapted for controlling a client device through a remote control device; Remote control devices therefor characterized by hardware details
    • H04N21/42224—Touch pad or touch panel provided on the remote control
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
    • H04N21/422—Input-only peripherals, i.e. input devices connected to specially adapted client devices, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
    • H04N21/42204—User interfaces specially adapted for controlling a client device through a remote control device; Remote control devices therefor
    • H04N21/42226—Reprogrammable remote control devices
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/43—Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
    • H04N21/431—Generation of visual interfaces for content selection or interaction; Content or additional data rendering
    • H04N21/4312—Generation of visual interfaces for content selection or interaction; Content or additional data rendering involving specific graphical features, e.g. screen layout, special fonts or colors, blinking icons, highlights or animations
    • H04N21/4314—Generation of visual interfaces for content selection or interaction; Content or additional data rendering involving specific graphical features, e.g. screen layout, special fonts or colors, blinking icons, highlights or animations for fitting data in a restricted space on the screen, e.g. EPG data in a rectangular grid
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/43—Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
    • H04N21/436—Interfacing a local distribution network, e.g. communicating with another STB or one or more peripheral devices inside the home
    • H04N21/43615—Interfacing a Home Network, e.g. for connecting the client to a plurality of peripherals
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/43—Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronising decoder's clock; Client middleware
    • H04N21/436—Interfacing a local distribution network, e.g. communicating with another STB or one or more peripheral devices inside the home
    • H04N21/4363—Adapting the video or multiplex stream to a specific local network, e.g. a IEEE 1394 or Bluetooth® network
    • H04N21/43637—Adapting the video or multiplex stream to a specific local network, e.g. a IEEE 1394 or Bluetooth® network involving a wireless protocol, e.g. Bluetooth, RF or wireless LAN [IEEE 802.11]
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/47—End-user applications
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N5/00—Details of television systems
    • H04N5/76—Television signal recording
    • H04N5/78—Television signal recording using magnetic recording
    • H04N5/782—Television signal recording using magnetic recording on tape
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
    • H04N21/422—Input-only peripherals, i.e. input devices connected to specially adapted client devices, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
    • H04N21/42204—User interfaces specially adapted for controlling a client device through a remote control device; Remote control devices therefor
    • H04N21/42206—User interfaces specially adapted for controlling a client device through a remote control device; Remote control devices therefor characterized by hardware details
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
    • H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
    • H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
    • H04N21/47—End-user applications
    • H04N21/478—Supplemental services, e.g. displaying phone caller identification, shopping application

Definitions

  • the program titles change according to the names of the program that were, are, or will be shown at that time period.
  • FIG. 1D shows the multimedia control system from FIG. 1B with a docking station.
  • FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the multimedia control system.
  • FIG. 8 shows a display screen for controlling one or more multimedia devices.
  • the remote control interface 207 is configured to control one or more of the multimedia devices 102 using remote control codes (either directly or through the repeater 160 ).
  • the processor formats information for the display and provides the information to the video driver 222 .
  • the touch-screen controller interfaces with the touch screen 201 . When the user touches the touch screen 201 , information about where the user touched the touch-screen is provided by the touch-screen controller 221 to the processor 205 .
  • Other user input devices such as a mouse, a keyboard, a trackball, etc. can also be used. However, the touch screen 201 is typically generally more convenient for the user.
  • the audio input device 211 is used in connection with speech recognition processing to provide for voice activated commands.
  • the setup 101 can be configured by using a program running on a home computer.
  • the system 101 includes one or more input/output ports (e.g., USB ports, firewire ports, etc.) to allow the user to connect devices such as keyboards, computer mice, etc.
  • input/output ports e.g., USB ports, firewire ports, etc.
  • a volume control button 633 allows the user to change the sound volume from the system 102 .
  • the system 101 provides the functions usually associated with a remote control.
  • a “DEVICES” button 625 allows the user to select a device-control screen 800 shown in FIG. 8 .
  • access to the information server 402 is provided on a subscription basis.
  • the user can choose a relatively low-cost subscription that provides relatively static information such as programming information.
  • the user can choose an upgraded subscription that includes time-sensitive supplementary information, such as for example, which channels are currently showing commercials, current sports scores (e.g., as shown on the button 602 ), current program content (e.g., as shown on the button 603 ), etc.

Abstract

A multimedia control system presents program schedule information to a user in a visually and intellectually-intuitive manner. The multimedia control system can be used to display programming information, control multimedia devices, control home automation devices, etc. In one embodiment, a control screen used to display programming information is configured as a touch screen to allow the user to select programming, control multimedia devices, or perform other functions by touching the screen. In one embodiment, the system uses a consistent, user-selectable, intuitive user interface. In one embodiment, programming information is dynamically updated to provide the user with current programming information, such as, for example, sports scores, commercial breaks, news stories, documentary contents, etc.

Description

    REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
  • The present application is a continuation application of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/983,419 titled “TOUCH-SCREEN REMOTE CONTROL FOR MULTIMEDIA EQUIPMENT”, which was filed on Nov. 8, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,461,343, the entire contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
    • BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • 1. Field of the Invention
  • The present invention relates to systems selection of television and/or radio programming.
  • 2. Description of the Related Art
  • Multimedia devices such as VCRs, DVD players, MP3 players, cassette players, CD players, SetTop Boxes (STBs) for cable and satellite television, and the new class of Personal Video Recorders (PVRs) such as TIVO, are extremely popular with consumers. Almost every household in the United States has at least one of these devices.
  • The most common user complaint is that these devices are difficult to use and understand. Menus used to guide users through options delivered by the multimedia devices are also confusing and cryptic. The menus are simplistic and text based. Cursor appearance and movement are rudimentary and the user is easily confused by the non-intuitive uses of menu choices.
  • Multimedia program schedule information provided by cable and satellite providers has been physically tied to an archaic display method. Service providers are under the false belief that viewers are conditioned to interpret and understand the television schedule presentation methods that originated from print media such as newspapers.
  • Television program schedule information has traditionally been displayed either in a columnar or tabular form. The tabular method displays program schedule information as a two dimensional table. The vertical axis displays the television channel numbers and the horizontal axis displays the time periods. The names of the television programs for each channel are listed horizontally across the table. Each show is listed under the time period during which it is shown.
  • The columnar method displays the channels and program names under a time heading. TV Guide is an example of the columnar method. This works well for printed matter because the reader looks through the columns for the desired time period and finds all of the channels and program names starting at that time.
  • A dominant television schedule format is the grid format. This format is popular for displaying television schedule information on the TV screen. The television schedule information is displayed in much the same form as the tabular approach. A two-dimensional table format is laid out. The vertical axis displays the channel numbers or IDs with the horizontal axis displaying half hour time increments. Programs are blocked out within the table. A show is represented by a rectangular colored block. This block extends horizontally from the program start time to the program end time.
  • The viewer either scrolls through the channel list or it is rotated automatically. Information beyond the time period is not displayed and only shifts to the right as time advances.
  • The problem with the grid format is that it is limited by the television resolution, screen size, and viewing distance. This limits the information displayed an hour or two, and the channel list to around seven channels. Additionally, some applications attempt to place advertising information within the grid format. This leads to a visual overload of information to the viewer and a cluttered appearance.
  • STBs and PVRs use the television screen to display programming information. The user is forced to use a remote control or other device to manipulate a cursor on the screen to select programming. This is a cumbersome and frustrating process and the user cannot watch a program or movie while scrolling through the programming list
    • SUMMARY
  • These and other problems are solved by a multimedia control system. The control system presents program schedule information to the user in a visually and intellectually-intuitive manner. The multimedia control system can be used to display programming information, control multimedia devices, control home automation devices, etc. In one embodiment, a control screen used to display programming information is configured as a touch screen to allow the user to select programming, control multimedia devices, or perform other functions by touching the screen. In one embodiment, the system uses a consistent, user-selectable, intuitive user interface. In one embodiment, programming information is dynamically updated to provide the user with current programming information, such as, for example, sports scores, commercial breaks, news stories, documentary contents, etc.
  • In one embodiment, a program guide screen provides a list of the programs that are currently airing, were aired, or are scheduled. In one embodiment, the program guide screen is separate from the television screen, so that the user can watch a program while browsing the program guide schedules.
  • In one embodiment, the programming information is provided in a matrix format such that the programming content of a relatively large number of channels can be displayed on a single control screen.
  • In one embodiment, the program guide information in a multi-column mode. A two column mode displays the available channels in a rotating endless list fashion in the left hand column and the programs for the highlighted channel in the right hand column. The user scrolls or pages up or down through the channel list. The interface is consistent throughout all columns with respect to scrolling and paging. Whispering arrows are also consistent in this interface, showing that more information exists in the indicated direction. Information is also more detailed as the highlight bar is moved to the right (successive disclosure) as described above. The current time period is shown on the screen.
  • As the user changes the time period, the program titles change according to the names of the program that were, are, or will be shown at that time period.
  • In one embodiment, the multimedia control system includes a processor, a touch-screen display, a communications interface to receive programming information over at least one communications channel, and one or more remote-control interfaces. The processor receives entertainment programming information from the communications interface and displays the programming information on the touch-screen display as a program screen. The processor controls one or more multimedia devices using the remote-control interfaces in response to user inputs from the touch-screen display. The processor provides a dialog-type display in response to user selection of a program displayed on the program screen. The processor updates the program screen to indicate the current content of one or more programs in the programming information.
  • In one embodiment, the remote-control interface includes an infrared interface. In one embodiment, the remote-control interface includes a radio-frequency interface. In one embodiment, the communication channel includes a computer network.
  • In one embodiment, the communication channel includes an Internet connection. In one embodiment, the communication channel includes a wireless networking channel. In one embodiment, the communication interface includes a satellite-radio receiver. In one embodiment, the communication interface includes a local area network interface. In one embodiment, the communication interface includes a wireless local area network interface.
  • In one embodiment, the program screen includes one or more graphical user interface buttons. In one embodiment, the graphical user interface buttons include a button to select a desired program. In one embodiment, the graphical user interface buttons include a button to select a device-control screen. In one embodiment, the graphical user interface buttons includes a button to select a setup screen. In one embodiment, the graphical user interface buttons include a button to open a dialog-type window corresponding to a selected program.
  • In one embodiment, the programming information includes information related to a current score of a program showing a sporting event. In one embodiment, the programming information includes information related to a current news topic a news program. In one embodiment, the programming information includes information related to a current news topic a news program.
  • In one embodiment, the program screen includes at least one or more graphical user interface buttons, each graphical user interface button corresponding to a program, each graphical user interface button configured to display an icon corresponding to the program. In one embodiment, the icon displays video content of the program. In one embodiment, the icon corresponds to an episode of the program.
  • In one embodiment, the programming content includes cable television programming. In one embodiment, the programming content includes satellite television programming. In one embodiment, the programming content includes satellite radio programming. In one embodiment, the programming content includes broadcast radio programming. In one embodiment, the programming content includes DVD programming. In one embodiment, the programming content includes audio CD programming. In one embodiment, the programming content includes previously-recorded programming. In one embodiment, the programming content includes previously-recorded programming stored in a PVR.
  • In one embodiment, one or more multimedia devices are controlled by a system that receives entertainment programming information over at least one communications channel and supplemental programming information over at least one communications channel. The programming information is displayed on a display screen as a program screen and updated according to the supplemental programming information to indicate a current content of one or more entertainment programs while the programs are in progress. A dialog-type window can be opened for a first entertainment program in response to a first user-input command. A remote-control command is sent to one or more multimedia devices to select a second entertainment program in response to a second user-input command.
  • In one embodiment, the remote-control command includes an infrared signal. In one embodiment, the remote-control command includes a radio-frequency signal.
  • In one embodiment, entertainment programming data is received from a computer network. In one embodiment, entertainment programming data is received from an Internet connection. In one embodiment, entertainment programming data is received from a wireless communication channel. In one embodiment, entertainment programming data is received from a wireless computer network. In one embodiment, entertainment programming data is received from a satellite-radio system. In one embodiment, entertainment programming data is received from a local-area network. In one embodiment, entertainment programming data received from a cable television network.
  • In one embodiment, the user can select a program screen format. In one embodiment, the program screen format includes a matrix of program buttons corresponding to programs that are currently available. In one embodiment, the program screen format includes a matrix wherein a first axis corresponds to time and a second axis corresponds to channel. In one embodiment, the program screen format includes a matrix wherein a first axis corresponds to time and a second axis corresponds to genre.
  • In one embodiment, the supplemental programming information includes information related to a current score of a program showing a sporting event. In one embodiment, the supplemental programming information includes information related to a current news topic a news program. In one embodiment, the supplemental programming information includes information related to a current topic of a science-related program.
  • In one embodiment, the human-interface device includes a touch-screen. In one embodiment, the human-interface device includes a computer mouse. In one embodiment, the human-interface device includes a trackball. In one embodiment, the human-interface device includes a speech-recognition system.
    • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • FIG. 1A shows a multimedia control system used in connection with a multimedia entertainment system.
  • FIG. 1B shows a multimedia control system used in connection with a multimedia entertainment system wherein a repeater relays communication between the multimedia control system and the devices in the multimedia entertainment system.
  • FIG. 1C shows one embodiment of the multimedia control system.
  • FIG. 1D shows the multimedia control system from FIG. 1B with a docking station.
  • FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the multimedia control system.
  • FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing one embodiment of the multimedia control system wherein the multimedia control system obtains programming information from a multimedia devices such as a settop box, personal video recorder, etc.
  • FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing one embodiment of the multimedia control system wherein the multimedia control system obtains programming information from a multimedia devices such as a settop box, personal video recorder, etc. and supplemental information from an information server.
  • FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing one embodiment of the multimedia control system wherein the multimedia control system obtains programming information and supplemental information from an information server.
  • FIG. 6 shows a display screen containing listing programming information, wherein programming is shown for a relatively large number of channels.
  • FIG. 7 shows a display screen containing listing programming information, wherein programming is shown for a number of channels and time periods.
  • FIG. 8 shows a display screen for controlling one or more multimedia devices.
  • FIG. 9 shows a display screen map for controlling one or more multimedia devices.
  • FIG. 10 shows one embodiment of a repeater.
    •  DETAILED DESCRIPTION
  • FIG. 1A shows a multimedia control system 101 used in connection with a multimedia entertainment system 102. The entertainment system 102 typically includes a television 110, and one or more multimedia devices, such as, for example, a settop box (STB) 106, a personal video recorder (PVR) 105, a DVD player 104, an AV receiver 103, etc. A user uses the control system 101 to perform remote control-type functions (e.g., control volume, control the channel, select the input device, fast-forward, reverse, slow motion, etc. In one embodiment, the control system 101 provides a touch-screen display that provides programming information and programmable touch-screen buttons to allow the user to control the entertainment system. In one embodiment, the control system 101 provides the functions of a universal remote control and the functions typically provided by on-screen programming.
  • FIG. 1B shows the multimedia control system 101 used in connection with a repeater 160 to communicate with the multimedia entertainment system 102. The repeater receives commands from the multimedia control system 101 and forwards the commands to the devices of the entertainment system 102. In one embodiment, the multimedia control system 101 communicates with the repeater 160 using wireless radio-frequency communication and the repeater 160 communicates with multimedia entertainment system 102 using infrared and/or wireless radio-frequency communication. Using wireless radio-frequency communication between the multimedia control system 101 and the repeater 160 means the user does not have to “point” the multimedia control system 101 at the multimedia entertainment system 102, as is common with infrared devices. The repeater 160 can be positioned such that the infrared transmitter/receiver in the repeater 160 is pointed towards the multimedia entertainment system 102 and the user is then free to move about the room our house with the multimedia control system 101.
  • In one embodiment, the repeater is a one-way repeater that forwards commands from the control system 101 to one or more of the multimedia devices 102. In one embodiment, the repeater is a two-way repeater that forwards commands from the control system 101 to one or more of the multimedia devices 102 and that that forwards data or commands from the one or more of the multimedia devices 102 to the control system 101.
  • FIG. 1C shows one embodiment of the multimedia control system 101. FIG. 1D shows the multimedia control system from FIG. 1C with a docking station 120. In one embodiment, the control system 101 is powered by an internal power source (e.g., a battery, fuel cell, etc.). In one embodiment, the docking station 120 provides power to the control system 101 to recharge the internal power source and to conserve power in the internal power source.
  • FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the multimedia control system 101. The system 101 includes a control module 204 and a touch-screen display 203. The touch-screen 203 includes a display 202 and a touch-screen 201. The control module 204 includes a video driver 222 provided to the display screen 202 and a touch-screen controller 221 provided to the touch screen 201. The video driver 222 and the touch-screen controller 221 are provided to a processor 205. An optional multimedia device interface 206, a remote-control interface 207, and a network interface 208 are also provided to the processor 205. A repeater interface 203 is provided the processor 205. In one embodiment, an audio input device 210 and an audio output device 211 are also provided to the processor 205. In one embodiment, the network interface 208 is configured as a LAN interface. In one embodiment, the network interface 208 is configured as a wireless LAN interface. In one embodiment, the remote control interface 207 includes an InfraRed (IR) interface. In one embodiment, the remote control interface 207 includes a Radio Frequency (RF) interface. In one embodiment, the multimedia device interface 206 is configured as a wireless interface.
  • The optional repeater interface 230 is configured to communicate with the repeater 160. The device interface 206 can be wired or wireless. For example, many settop boxes use wireless RF for remote control, thus to communicate with such devices, the device interface 206 can be configured as a wireless RF interface. In one embodiment, the repeater interface 230 is combined with the device interface 206 or the network interface 208 into a single wireless interface.
  • In one embodiment, the multimedia control system 101 obtains programming information from a multimedia device such as the STB 106 or PVR 105 by using the multimedia device interface 206.
  • In one embodiment, the multimedia control system 101 obtains programming information from a multimedia device such as a satellite radio receiver (such as, for example, Sirius radio, XM radio, and the like). The programming information can be provided in one or more radio channels or control channels. In such an embodiment, the multimedia device 206 includes a modem to demodulate the information modulated onto the one or more radio channels.
  • In one embodiment, the multimedia control system 101 obtains programming information from an Internet server by using the network interface 208.
  • The remote control interface 207 is configured to control one or more of the multimedia devices 102 using remote control codes (either directly or through the repeater 160). The processor formats information for the display and provides the information to the video driver 222. The touch-screen controller interfaces with the touch screen 201. When the user touches the touch screen 201, information about where the user touched the touch-screen is provided by the touch-screen controller 221 to the processor 205. Other user input devices such as a mouse, a keyboard, a trackball, etc. can also be used. However, the touch screen 201 is typically generally more convenient for the user. In one embodiment, the audio input device 211 is used in connection with speech recognition processing to provide for voice activated commands.
  • In one embodiment, the setup 101 can be configured by using a program running on a home computer. In one embodiment, the system 101 includes one or more input/output ports (e.g., USB ports, firewire ports, etc.) to allow the user to connect devices such as keyboards, computer mice, etc.
  • FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing one embodiment of the multimedia control system wherein the multimedia control system 101 obtains programming information from one or more multimedia devices 301 such as the STB 106, the PVR 105, etc. The multimedia device 301 receives programming information and video feeds from a cable network, satellite network, etc. The multimedia device 301 provides the programming information to the multimedia control system 200. The multimedia control system 200 display the programming information to the user and the user can use the touch-screen 201 to select the desired program. The multimedia control system 200 then sends commands to one or more of the multimedia devices 102 to select the desired programming.
  • FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing one embodiment of the multimedia control system wherein the multimedia control system 101 obtains programming information from a the multimedia device 301 as in FIG. 3, and supplemental information from an information server 402 via the Internet or other communication channel (e.g., satellite radio, etc.). The supplemental information can be used to augment and enrich the programming information provided through the multimedia device 301. In one embodiment, the information server 402 provides icons, graphics, and/or text in connection with the programming information. In one embodiment, the information server 402 provides relatively low-resolution video for display on the control system 101 as video icons and/or video preview screens.
  • The supplemental information can include up-to-date information, historical information, additional details, and the like not provided in connection with the programming information. For example, for a program involving a sporting event, the supplemental information can include the current score. For a program involving a movie, the supplemental information can include the year of the movie, reviews, historical background, names of the actors, director, etc. For a news program or documentary, the supplemental information can include the subject of the current news story.
  • FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing one embodiment of the multimedia control system wherein the multimedia control system 101 obtains programming information and supplemental information from the information server 402. In one embodiment, the control system 101 receives programming information from the information server 402 on a batch basis (e.g., a week's worth of programming, a month's worth of programming, etc.) to be stored by the control system 101. If an Internet connection becomes temporarily unavailable, the multimedia control system 101 can still provide programming information to the user from the stored programming information.
  • During system setup of the multimedia control system 101, the user specifies which television service the user has installed if any (e.g., which satellite company or cable company provide service) and the type of service the user has (e.g., basic cable, basic cable with premium channels, etc.). The multimedia control system 101 forwards such information to the information server 402 so that the information server 402 knows which programming to send to the multimedia control system 101.
  • FIG. 6 shows a display page 600 on the touch-screen 203 containing listing programming information, wherein programming is shown for a relatively large number of channels. A matrix 601 of buttons displays programming choices. In the example shown in FIG. 6, a button 602 corresponds to a football game, a button 603 corresponds to CNN, a button 604 corresponds to a TV show, etc. The “buttons” are Graphical User Interface (GUI) buttons corresponding to areas on the touch-screen 203. In one embodiment, each button corresponds to a different programming channel (e.g. cable or satellite channel). In one embodiment, one or more of the buttons can also correspond to recorded programs on the PVR 105, content of the DVD in the DVD player 104, etc. A volume control button 633 allows the user to change the sound volume from the system 102. In addition to providing programming information, the system 101 provides the functions usually associated with a remote control. A “DEVICES” button 625 allows the user to select a device-control screen 800 shown in FIG. 8.
  • A button 626 and a button 627 allow the user to scroll the matrix 601 horizontally. A button 628 and a button 629 allow the user to scroll the matrix 601 vertically. In FIG. 6, the buttons in the matrix correspond to different channels all for the same time period. The time period is selected by the user (e.g., the current time, one hour from now, etc.). This allows relatively many channels to be displayed on the screen. FIG. 7 shows a display screen wherein the horizontal axis of the matrix 601 corresponds to time and the vertical axis of the matrix 601 corresponds to different channels. The user can switch between the matrix formats shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. The user can also select a mode wherein one axis of the matrix corresponds to channels and the other axis of the matrix corresponds to programming genre. The user can also select a mode wherein one axis of the matrix corresponds to time and the other axis of the matrix corresponds to programming genre. A button 621 allows the user to indicate that at least one axis of the matrix should correspond to “time”. A button 622 allows the user to indicate that at least one axis of the matrix should correspond to “channels”. A button 623 allows the user to indicate that at least one axis of the matrix should correspond to programming genre. A button 624 allows the user to indicate that at least one axis of the matrix should correspond to the users favorites. Thus, for example, by selecting one axis as time, and one axis as favorites, the user can produce a matrix 601 that shows when the user's favorite programs will be available.
  • The user can select-highlight a button by touching the touch-screen 203. The user can view the program corresponding to the selected button by pressing a “GOTO” button 631. In one embodiment, the user can double-click a matrix button view the corresponding program. In one embodiment, the user can “expand” a matrix button to show additional information as shown in a window 610 in FIG. 6. The window 610 is similar to a dialog box in Microsoft Windows. The window 610 is relatively larger than a matrix button and thus able to show more information In one embodiment, the window 610 includes additional text, such as, for example, the start time, end time, names of the actors, awards, reviews, historical information related to the program, etc. In one embodiment, the window 610 includes a video area where the actual video from the program is displayed (either as full motion video, slow motion video, stills, etc.) In one embodiment, the window 610 includes a “RECORD” button 634 to allow the user to indicate that the program should be recorded on a VCR, PVR, etc. An “ICON” button 635 allows the user to close the window 610.
  • In one embodiment, supplemental information from the information server 402. Thus, in FIG. 6, the button 602 shows the current score, the button 603 shows the subject of the news item, the button 604 lists the title of the episode, etc.
  • A button 608 shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 shows an optional format that provides four sub-buttons (shown as round circles for illustration) in the comers of the button 608. The user can select some or all of the buttons in the matrix 601 to use the format of the button 608. Each of the four sub-buttons provides a function, such as, for example, “GOTO”, “expand”, etc. In one embodiment, the user can specify the functions of one or more of the sub-buttons. The sub-buttons of button 608 are show as circles merely for purposes of illustration. In one embodiment, the sub-buttons are not visually shown, but correspond generally to sub-areas of the button such as, for example, two halves (e.g., up-down, left-right) or four quadrants, or other sub-areas of the button 608. Touching one sub-area of the button 608 produces a first function (e.g., expand), and touching a second sub-area of the button 608 produces a second function.
  • In one embodiment, one or more of the buttons on the display screen 203 are sensitive to single touches or double-touches (analogous to the common single and double mouse button clicks). A single touch produces a first action, while a double touch produces a second action.
  • In one embodiment, one or more of the buttons on the display screen 203 are sensitive to how long the button is touched. Thus, in one embodiment, a relatively quick touch produces a first action, while a relatively longer touch produces a second action.
  • In one embodiment, one or more of the buttons on the display screen 203 are sensitive to the pressure of the touch. Thus, in one embodiment, a relatively light touch produces a first action, while a relatively stronger touch (more pressure) produces a second action.
  • In one embodiment, combinations of sub-areas, single/double touches, length of touch and/or pressure of the touch, are used to provide different functions.
  • In one embodiment, the user can select the size of the buttons in the matrix 601. Selecting a relatively smaller button size allows more buttons (and thus more programs or channels) to be displayed on the screen at one time. Selecting a relatively larger button size reduces the number of buttons that can be displayed, but allows the use of a larger font thus making the buttons easier to read. The user can select the size of the buttons in the matrix 601 and the font size used for text in the buttons.
  • In one embodiment, the user can block selected programming channels so that space on the screen is not used for buttons corresponding to channels (e.g., shopping channels, pay-per-view channels, etc.) for which the user has no interest. Similarly, the user can block selected programming genres so that space on the screen is not used for buttons corresponding to genres (e.g., sports, sitcoms, etc.) for which the user has no interest.
  • In one embodiment, one or more buttons in the matrix 601 can include special indications, such as highlighting (e.g., color-coded, bordered, etc.) negative-highlighting (e.g., dimmed, color-coded, etc.) etc. to convey additional information to the user. In one embodiment, the user can specify preferred genres, shows, etc. and a button in the matrix 601 corresponding to such preference can be highlighted. Buttons corresponding to channels that are currently showing commercials can be negatively-highlighted. In one embodiment, buttons corresponding to pay-per-view channels are indicated. For example, in FIGS. 6 and 7, a button 605 is shown highlighted to indicate that the corresponding channel is currently showing a commercial. Information about which channels are showing commercials at any given time is provided by the information server 402.
  • In one embodiment, access to the information server 402 is provided on a subscription basis. In one embodiment, the user can choose a relatively low-cost subscription that provides relatively static information such as programming information. In one embodiment, the user can choose an upgraded subscription that includes time-sensitive supplementary information, such as for example, which channels are currently showing commercials, current sports scores (e.g., as shown on the button 602), current program content (e.g., as shown on the button 603), etc.
  • In one embodiment, the buttons in the matrix 601 include text. In one embodiment, the buttons in the matrix 601 include an icon indicating the program genre. In one embodiment, the buttons in the matrix 601 include an icon indicating the program (e.g., a show logo, picture of the actors, etc.).
  • In one embodiment, one or more of the buttons in the matrix 601 include a video portion that shows the program as video within the button.
  • FIG. 8 shows a display screen 800 for controlling one or more multimedia devices. A button 821 selects the AV receiver 103, a button 822 selects a VCR, a button 823 selects the STB 106, a button 824 selects the DVD player 104, a button 825 selects the PVR 105, a button 826 selects the television 110, a button 827 selects first speakers, and a button 828 selects second speakers. When setting up the system 101, the user selects multimedia devices from a list (or creates new multimedia device entries in the list) and the selected devices are shown on the screen 800. Thus, for example, if the user has a multimedia system that includes only a TV, a STB, a DVD player and an AV receiver, the user would select TV, STB, DVD, and AV receiver, from the setup list and the screen 800 would then no include the button 825 or the button 822. If the user adds a PVR to the multimedia system, the user goes to the setup screen and adds the PVR to the list of devices and the button 825 is then displayed on the screen 800.
  • As part of the system setup the user specifies which devices are available and the manufacturer and model number of each devices. Knowing the manufacturer and model number allow the system 101 to select the proper remote-control codes to control the multimedia devices.
  • In one embodiment, the system 101 can also be used to control additional devices such as, for example, home automation devices, home alarm systems, heating and cooling systems, etc. Thus, for example, in a home with a remotely-programmable thermostat, the user can use the system 101 to change the set temperature of the thermostat, turn on heating or cooling, etc.
  • In one embodiment, the system 101 includes Internet browser software and the touch-screen 203 can be used for Internet browsing.
  • FIG. 9 shows a display screen map for controlling one or more multimedia devices.
  • In one embodiment, the programming data and/or supplemental data provided by the information server 403 is provided as a subscription service.
  • Although described above in connection with multimedia devices, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the control system 101 can also be used on connection with audio programming, such as, for example, broadcast radio, satellite radio, Internet radio, etc.
  • In one embodiment, the system 101 is implemented as a computer program running on a personal computer, laptop computer, or tablet computer. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that if the system 101 is implemented on a computer that does not have a touch screen, the user can use a computer mouse, joystick, trackball, etc. to select the GUI elements on the display screen 202.
  • FIG. 10 shows one embodiment of the repeater 160. In the repeater 160, the device interface 206 and the remote control interface 207 are provided to a processor 1001. A wireless control system interface 1002 is also provided to the processor 1001. The wireless control system interface 1002 is configured to wirelessly communicate with the repeater interface 230. The device interface 206 can be wired or wireless. In one embodiment, the device interface 206 and the control system interface 1002 are combined into a single wireless interface. In one embodiment, the control interface 1002 is configured as a network interface (e.g., a wireless LAN interface).
  • Although various embodiments have been described above, other embodiments will be within the skill of one of ordinary skill in the art. Thus, the invention is limited only by the claims that follow.

Claims (65)

1. A multimedia control system, comprising:
a processor;
a touch-screen display provided to said processor;
a communications interface provided to said processor, said communications interface configured to receive programming information over at least one communications channel; and
one or more remote-control interfaces provided to said processor, said processor configured to receive said programming information from said communications interface and to display said programming information on said touch-screen display as a program screen, said processor configured to control one or more multimedia devices using said one or more remote-control interfaces in response to user inputs from said touch-screen display, said processor further configured to provide a dialog-type display in response to user selection of a program displayed on said program screen, said processor configured to update said program screen to indicate the current content of one or more programs in said programming information.
2. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said remote-control interface comprises an infrared interface.
3. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said remote-control interface comprises a radio-frequency interface.
4. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said communication channel comprises a computer network.
5. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said communication channel comprises an Internet connection.
6. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said communication channel comprises a wireless networking channel.
7. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said communication interface comprises a satellite-radio receiver.
8. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said communication interface comprises a local area network interface.
9. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said communication interface comprises a wireless local area network interface.
10. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said program screen comprise one or more graphical user interface buttons.
11. The multimedia control system of claim 10, wherein at least one of said graphical user interface buttons comprises a button to select a desired program.
12. The multimedia control system of claim 10 wherein at least one of said graphical user interface buttons comprises a button to select a device-control screen.
13. The multimedia control system of claim 10 wherein at least one of said graphical user interface buttons comprises a button to select a setup screen.
14. The multimedia control system of claim 10, wherein at least one of said graphical user interface buttons comprises a button to open a dialog-type window corresponding to a selected program.
15. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said programming information comprises information related to a current score of a program showing a sporting event.
16. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said programming information comprises information related to a current news topic of a news program.
17. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said programming information comprises information related to a current news topic of a news program.
18. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said program screen comprises at least one or more graphical user interface buttons, each graphical user interface button corresponding to a program, each graphical user interface button configured to display an icon corresponding to said program.
19. The multimedia control system of claim 18, wherein said icon displays video content of said program.
20. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said icon corresponds to an episode of said program.
21. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said programming content comprises cable television programming.
22. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said programming content comprises satellite television programming.
23. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said programming content comprises satellite radio programming.
24. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said programming content comprises broadcast radio programming.
25. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said programming content comprises DVD programming.
26. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said programming content comprises audio CD programming.
27. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said programming content comprises previously-recorded programming.
28. The multimedia control system of claim 1, wherein said programming content comprises previously-recorded programming stored in a PVR.
29. A method for controlling one or more multimedia devices, comprising:
receiving entertainment programming information over at least one communications channel;
receiving supplemental programming information over at least one communications channel;
displaying said programming information on a display screen as a program screen;
updating said program screen according to said supplemental programming information to indicate a current content of one or more entertainment programs during a time period of said one or more entertainment programs;
opening a dialog-type window for a first entertainment program in response to a first user-input command; and
sending a remote-control command to one or more multimedia devices to select a second entertainment program in response to a second user-input command.
30. The method of claim 29, said sending a remote-control command comprises sending an infrared signal.
31. The method of claim 28, wherein said sending a remote-control command comprises sending a radio-frequency signal.
32. The method of claim 28, receiving entertainment programming comprises receiving data from a computer network.
33. The method of claim 28, receiving entertainment programming comprises receiving data from an Internet connection.
34. The method of claim 28, receiving entertainment programming comprises receiving data from a wireless communication channel.
35. The method of claim 28, receiving entertainment programming comprises receiving data from a wireless computer network.
36. The method of claim 28, receiving entertainment programming comprises receiving data from a satellite-radio system.
37. The method of claim 28, receiving entertainment programming comprises receiving data from a local-area network.
38. The method of claim 28, receiving entertainment programming comprises receiving data from a cable television network.
39. The method of claim 28, wherein said program screen comprises one or more graphical user interface buttons.
40. The method of claim 38, wherein at least one of said graphical user interface buttons comprises a button to select a desired program.
41. The method of claim 28, further comprising selecting a device-control screen.
42. The method of claim 28, further comprising selecting a setup screen.
43. The method of claim 28, further comprising selecting a program display format.
44. The method of claim 28, further comprising selecting a program screen format.
45. The method of claim 44, wherein said program screen format comprises a matrix of program buttons corresponding to programs that are currently available.
46. The method of claim 44, wherein said program screen format comprises a matrix wherein a first axis corresponds to time and a second axis corresponds to channel.
47. The method of claim 44, wherein said program screen format comprises a matrix wherein a first axis corresponds to time and a second axis corresponds to genre.
48. The method of claim 28, wherein said supplemental programming information comprises information related to a current score of a program showing a sporting event.
49. The method of claim 28, wherein said supplemental programming information comprises information related to a current news topic of a news program.
50. The method of claim 28, wherein said supplemental programming information comprises information related to a current topic of a science-related program.
51. The method of claim 28, wherein said program screen comprises at least one or more graphical user interface buttons, each graphical user interface button corresponding to a program, each graphical user interface button configured to display an icon corresponding to said program.
52. The method of claim 51, wherein said icon displays video content of said program.
53. The method of claim 51, wherein said icon corresponds to an episode of said program.
54. The method of claim 28, wherein said entertainment programming comprises cable television programming.
55. The method of claim 28, wherein said entertainment programming comprises satellite television programming.
56. The method of claim 28, wherein said entertainment programming comprises satellite radio programming.
57. The method of claim 28, wherein said entertainment programming comprises broadcast radio programming.
58. The method of claim 28, wherein said entertainment programming comprises DVD programming.
59. The method of claim 28, wherein said entertainment programming comprises audio CD programming.
60. The method of claim 28, wherein said entertainment programming comprises previously-recorded programming.
61. The method of claim 28, wherein said entertainment programming comprises previously-recorded programming stored in a PVR.
62. The method of claim 28, wherein said human-interface device comprises a touch-screen.
63. The method of claim 28, wherein said human-interface device comprises a computer mouse.
64. The method of claim 28, wherein said human-interface device comprises a trackball.
65. The method of claim 28, wherein said human-interface device comprises a speech-recognition system.
US12/274,301 2004-11-08 2008-11-19 Touch-screen remote control for multimedia equipment Abandoned US20090184926A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US12/274,301 US20090184926A1 (en) 2004-11-08 2008-11-19 Touch-screen remote control for multimedia equipment

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US10/983,419 US7461343B2 (en) 2004-11-08 2004-11-08 Touch-screen remote control for multimedia equipment
US12/274,301 US20090184926A1 (en) 2004-11-08 2008-11-19 Touch-screen remote control for multimedia equipment

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/983,419 Continuation US7461343B2 (en) 2004-11-08 2004-11-08 Touch-screen remote control for multimedia equipment

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20090184926A1 true US20090184926A1 (en) 2009-07-23

Family

ID=35798487

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/983,419 Active 2026-02-20 US7461343B2 (en) 2004-11-08 2004-11-08 Touch-screen remote control for multimedia equipment
US12/274,301 Abandoned US20090184926A1 (en) 2004-11-08 2008-11-19 Touch-screen remote control for multimedia equipment

Family Applications Before (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US10/983,419 Active 2026-02-20 US7461343B2 (en) 2004-11-08 2004-11-08 Touch-screen remote control for multimedia equipment

Country Status (11)

Country Link
US (2) US7461343B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1812846A1 (en)
JP (1) JP2008519550A (en)
KR (1) KR20070085536A (en)
CN (1) CN101057208A (en)
AU (1) AU2005305305A1 (en)
BR (1) BRPI0517530A (en)
CA (1) CA2585897A1 (en)
MX (1) MX2007005304A (en)
RU (1) RU2007120872A (en)
WO (1) WO2006052347A1 (en)

Cited By (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20090113495A1 (en) * 2007-10-30 2009-04-30 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Display apparatus and control method thereof
US20100162118A1 (en) * 2008-12-24 2010-06-24 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Method and apparatus for providing gui
US20100191352A1 (en) * 2009-01-27 2010-07-29 Eldon Technology Ltd. Systems and methods for facilitating home automation
US20100225594A1 (en) * 2009-01-05 2010-09-09 Hipolito Saenz Video frame recorder
US20100319024A1 (en) * 2006-12-27 2010-12-16 Kyocera Corporation Broadcast Receiving Apparatus
US20110167370A1 (en) * 2010-01-04 2011-07-07 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Electronic device including touch screen and operation control method thereof
US20110201298A1 (en) * 2010-02-18 2011-08-18 Jerome Gelover Substitution of a telephone land line based home alarm system with a cell phone connection based system
US20130247102A1 (en) * 2010-02-06 2013-09-19 Frontier Communications Corporation Method and system to request audiovisual content items matched to programs identified in a program grid
US8863186B2 (en) 2010-02-06 2014-10-14 Frontier Communications Corporation Management and delivery of audiovisual content items that corresponds to scheduled programs
US9189070B2 (en) 2010-09-24 2015-11-17 Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha Content display device, content display method, portable terminal, program, and recording medium

Families Citing this family (89)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
KR100520118B1 (en) * 2003-08-21 2005-10-10 삼성전자주식회사 Integrated control device for multi controled device and integrated control method thereof
KR20060012200A (en) * 2004-08-02 2006-02-07 삼성전자주식회사 Display device and driving method thereof
US7461343B2 (en) * 2004-11-08 2008-12-02 Lawrence Kates Touch-screen remote control for multimedia equipment
TW200704183A (en) * 2005-01-27 2007-01-16 Matrix Tv Dynamic mosaic extended electronic programming guide for television program selection and display
US20060247851A1 (en) * 2005-03-08 2006-11-02 Morris Robert P Mobile phone having a TV remote style user interface
US8875196B2 (en) 2005-08-13 2014-10-28 Webtuner Corp. System for network and local content access
TW200717402A (en) * 2005-10-31 2007-05-01 Asustek Comp Inc Monitor with prompting sound effects
US8850478B2 (en) * 2005-12-02 2014-09-30 Hillcrest Laboratories, Inc. Multimedia systems, methods and applications
JP2007158806A (en) * 2005-12-06 2007-06-21 Sony Corp Content output system, information displaying device, content output device, and content information displaying method
US7669128B2 (en) * 2006-03-20 2010-02-23 Intension, Inc. Methods of enhancing media content narrative
US20090055760A1 (en) * 2006-08-17 2009-02-26 Vantage Controls, Inc. System and method for creating a user interface
US8015506B2 (en) * 2006-09-22 2011-09-06 Microsoft Corporation Customizing a menu in a discovery interface
US8112714B2 (en) * 2006-09-22 2012-02-07 Microsoft Corporation Customizing application page loading in a discovery interface
US20080086687A1 (en) * 2006-10-06 2008-04-10 Ryutaro Sakai Graphical User Interface For Audio-Visual Browsing
US20080144261A1 (en) * 2006-12-13 2008-06-19 Motorola, Inc. Electronic device
US20080163059A1 (en) * 2006-12-28 2008-07-03 Guideworks, Llc Systems and methods for creating custom video mosaic pages with local content
US20080168501A1 (en) * 2007-01-05 2008-07-10 Microsoft Corporation Media selection
US20080172695A1 (en) * 2007-01-05 2008-07-17 Microsoft Corporation Media selection
US7924271B2 (en) * 2007-01-05 2011-04-12 Apple Inc. Detecting gestures on multi-event sensitive devices
US20080178125A1 (en) * 2007-01-23 2008-07-24 Microsoft Corporation Providing dynamic content in a user interface in an application
US9177603B2 (en) 2007-03-19 2015-11-03 Intension, Inc. Method of assembling an enhanced media content narrative
KR101109602B1 (en) * 2007-03-26 2012-01-31 삼성전자주식회사 Method and electronic apparatus for processing signal of remote controller and method and remote controller for controlling electronic apparatus
KR100857508B1 (en) * 2007-04-24 2008-09-08 (주)비욘위즈 Method and apparatus for digital broadcating set-top box controller and digital broadcasting system
EP1998446A1 (en) * 2007-05-31 2008-12-03 Alcatel Lucent Remote control for devices with connectivity to a service delivery platform
FI20070702L (en) * 2007-09-14 2009-03-15 Clarovision Ltd Oy Graphical user interface and device for controlling the same
KR101398134B1 (en) * 2007-10-04 2014-05-20 엘지전자 주식회사 Apparatus and method for playing moving-picture in mobile terminal
US20090128513A1 (en) * 2007-11-20 2009-05-21 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd Device identification method and apparatus, device information provision method and apparatus, and computer-readable recording mediums having recorded thereon programs for executing the device identification method and the device information provision method
US20090254865A1 (en) * 2008-04-07 2009-10-08 Arch Bridge Holdings, Inc. Graphical user interface for accessing information organized by concentric closed paths
WO2009134423A1 (en) * 2008-05-02 2009-11-05 Savant Systems Llc Touch sensitive video signal display for a programmable multimedia controller
US8621094B2 (en) * 2008-06-30 2013-12-31 Microsoft Corporation User status reports provided by an entertainment access system
FR2933553B1 (en) * 2008-07-03 2011-12-09 Somfy Sas METHOD FOR SELECTING AN EQUIPMENT AND CONTROLLER FOR CARRYING OUT SAID METHOD
KR101503493B1 (en) * 2008-07-16 2015-03-17 삼성전자주식회사 Method for controlling devices using widget contents and a remote controller thereof
CN101639973B (en) * 2008-07-30 2012-03-28 Tcl集团股份有限公司 Management method for remote controller
WO2010026717A1 (en) * 2008-09-08 2010-03-11 シャープ株式会社 Control system, video display device, and remote control device
US8358978B2 (en) * 2008-11-04 2013-01-22 Broadcom Corporation Multiservice communication device with cognitive radio transceiver
KR101635640B1 (en) * 2008-12-11 2016-07-05 삼성전자 주식회사 Display apparatus, display system and control method thereof
US20100169842A1 (en) * 2008-12-31 2010-07-01 Microsoft Corporation Control Function Gestures
KR20100083641A (en) * 2009-01-14 2010-07-22 삼성전자주식회사 Terminal device, broadcasting receiving apparatus and control method thereof
US8607268B2 (en) * 2009-01-15 2013-12-10 Microsoft Corporation Categorized electronic program guide
KR101566001B1 (en) * 2009-01-22 2015-11-04 삼성전자 주식회사 Apparatus for providing graphic user interface and method thereof
US8812713B1 (en) * 2009-03-18 2014-08-19 Sprint Communications Company L.P. Augmenting media streams using mediation servers
JP5695819B2 (en) * 2009-03-30 2015-04-08 日立マクセル株式会社 TV operation method
KR20100135145A (en) * 2009-06-16 2010-12-24 삼성전자주식회사 Remote controller and method for display
SG177155A1 (en) * 2009-06-16 2012-01-30 Intel Corp Camera applications in a handheld device
US9232167B2 (en) * 2009-08-04 2016-01-05 Echostar Technologies L.L.C. Video system and remote control with touch interface for supplemental content display
KR101611350B1 (en) * 2009-09-28 2016-04-12 삼성전자주식회사 Method And Apparatus For Controlling Channel
KR20110047349A (en) * 2009-10-30 2011-05-09 주식회사 팬택 User interface apparatus and method forusingtouch and compression in portable terminal
JP5327017B2 (en) * 2009-11-24 2013-10-30 ソニー株式会社 Remote operation device, remote operation system, information processing method and program using remote operation device
FR2956224B1 (en) * 2010-02-09 2012-11-02 Somfy Sas METHOD FOR OPERATING A DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING DOMOTIC EQUIPMENT
WO2011161966A1 (en) * 2010-06-25 2011-12-29 パナソニック株式会社 Control device and script conversion method
JP5454405B2 (en) * 2010-07-21 2014-03-26 ヤマハ株式会社 Acoustic adjustment console
US8385721B2 (en) 2010-09-08 2013-02-26 Telefonaktiebolaget L M Ericsson (Publ) Media playlist methods and apparatus
US20120089923A1 (en) * 2010-10-08 2012-04-12 Microsoft Corporation Dynamic companion device user interface
JP5757080B2 (en) * 2010-10-22 2015-07-29 ソニー株式会社 Operation terminal device, display device, and operation method of display device
KR101932688B1 (en) 2010-11-29 2018-12-28 삼성전자주식회사 Portable Device and Method for Providing User Interface Mode thereof
JP2014510320A (en) * 2011-01-04 2014-04-24 トムソン ライセンシング Context user interface
US9635405B2 (en) 2011-05-17 2017-04-25 Webtuner Corp. System and method for scalable, high accuracy, sensor and ID based audience measurement system based on distributed computing architecture
AU2012258732A1 (en) 2011-05-24 2013-12-12 WebTuner, Corporation System and method to increase efficiency and speed of analytics report generation in Audience Measurement Systems
WO2012162693A1 (en) 2011-05-26 2012-11-29 WebTuner, Corporation Highly scalable audience measurement system with client event pre-processing
US10055746B1 (en) 2011-06-24 2018-08-21 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and system for obtaining feedback for a content recommendation by various algorithms
MX2013015270A (en) 2011-06-24 2014-03-31 Direct Tv Group Inc Method and system for obtaining viewing data and providing content recommendations at a set top box.
US9788069B1 (en) 2011-06-24 2017-10-10 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and system for recording recommended content within a user device
JP5815332B2 (en) * 2011-08-26 2015-11-17 三菱電機株式会社 Remote control device and broadcast channel selection system
US9032451B2 (en) 2011-09-01 2015-05-12 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and system for using a second screen device for interacting with a set top box to enhance a user experience
CN103049997B (en) * 2011-10-11 2016-01-27 Lg电子株式会社 The control method of telepilot and multimedia equipment
CN103092385B (en) * 2011-11-07 2016-02-17 梁月强 General programmable touch display device
US8902180B2 (en) 2011-12-16 2014-12-02 Nokia Corporation Methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for enabling use of remote devices with pre-defined gestures
US9146616B2 (en) * 2012-01-10 2015-09-29 Fanhattan Inc. Touch-enabled remote control
US20130176102A1 (en) * 2012-01-10 2013-07-11 Gilles Serge BianRosa Touch-enabled remote control
EP2667583A3 (en) * 2012-05-22 2014-01-22 Nagravision S.A. Hand-held remote control device with context-driven dynamic display
CN102880339B (en) * 2012-07-27 2016-01-27 中国华录集团有限公司 Wireless touch telechiric device and operation recognition methods thereof
CN103677496A (en) * 2012-09-07 2014-03-26 腾讯科技（深圳）有限公司 Interface control method and control device
US9351043B2 (en) * 2012-09-18 2016-05-24 Centurylink Intellectual Property Llc Metadata system for real-time updates to electronic program guides
TWI489337B (en) * 2012-11-23 2015-06-21 義隆電子股份有限公司 Method of manufacturing virtual function button of a touch panel, method of identifying interference and the touch panel
US9398342B1 (en) * 2012-11-29 2016-07-19 Amazon Technologies, Inc. Interactive applications
US10902179B2 (en) 2012-12-10 2021-01-26 Microsoft Technology Licensing, Llc Modification of file graphic appearance within a collection canvas
WO2014128801A1 (en) * 2013-02-20 2014-08-28 パナソニック インテレクチュアル プロパティ コーポレーション オブ アメリカ Program and method for controlling information terminal
WO2014128768A1 (en) 2013-02-20 2014-08-28 パナソニック インテレクチュアル プロパティ コーポレーション オブ アメリカ Program and method for controlling portable information terminal
US10003780B1 (en) 2013-03-14 2018-06-19 The Directv Group, Inc. Method and system for recording recommended content within a user device and indicating recording capacity
US9396565B2 (en) 2013-06-07 2016-07-19 Apple Inc. Rendering borders of elements of a graphical user interface
US20140373074A1 (en) 2013-06-12 2014-12-18 Vivint, Inc. Set top box automation
CN104681002A (en) * 2013-11-27 2015-06-03 明光市嘉益电控科技有限公司 Remote screen advertising control terminal system
CN104346040B (en) * 2014-10-23 2018-08-07 京东方科技集团股份有限公司 A kind of information fast searching method, display control program and input equipment
US10397637B2 (en) * 2014-12-04 2019-08-27 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Apparatus and method for facilitating channel control on a paired device
US20180213286A1 (en) * 2017-01-20 2018-07-26 Essential Products, Inc. Contextual user interface based on shared activities
US10166465B2 (en) 2017-01-20 2019-01-01 Essential Products, Inc. Contextual user interface based on video game playback
US10359993B2 (en) 2017-01-20 2019-07-23 Essential Products, Inc. Contextual user interface based on environment
US10989427B2 (en) 2017-12-20 2021-04-27 Trane International Inc. HVAC system including smart diagnostic capabilites
US11782593B1 (en) 2019-06-09 2023-10-10 Advanced Electronic Design, Inc. Wireless personal protection device and methods of use

Citations (18)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5956025A (en) * 1997-06-09 1999-09-21 Philips Electronics North America Corporation Remote with 3D organized GUI for a home entertainment system
US6020930A (en) * 1997-08-28 2000-02-01 Sony Corporation Method and apparatus for generating and displaying a broadcast system program guide
US6437836B1 (en) * 1998-09-21 2002-08-20 Navispace, Inc. Extended functionally remote control system and method therefore
US20020140571A1 (en) * 2001-01-29 2002-10-03 Hayes Patrick H. System and method for using a hand held device to display product information
US6469633B1 (en) * 1997-01-06 2002-10-22 Openglobe Inc. Remote control of electronic devices
US20020171670A1 (en) * 2001-04-04 2002-11-21 International Business Machines Corporation System for integrating personalized data with visual content
US6496122B2 (en) * 1998-06-26 2002-12-17 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. Image display and remote control system capable of displaying two distinct images
US20030035074A1 (en) * 2001-08-17 2003-02-20 Dubil Thomas James Remote control device having a display for displaying a television channel guide
US20030035075A1 (en) * 2001-08-20 2003-02-20 Butler Michelle A. Method and system for providing improved user input capability for interactive television
US20030095156A1 (en) * 2001-11-20 2003-05-22 Universal Electronics Inc. Hand held remote control device having an improved user interface
US20030103088A1 (en) * 2001-11-20 2003-06-05 Universal Electronics Inc. User interface for a remote control application
US6747591B1 (en) * 2001-11-20 2004-06-08 Universal Electronics Inc. System and method for retrieving information while commanding operation of an appliance
US20050110909A1 (en) * 2002-04-04 2005-05-26 Staunton Declan M. Digital remote control device
US6983418B1 (en) * 1995-03-24 2006-01-03 The Board Of Trustees Of The Leland Stanford Junior Varsity Devices and methods for interfacing human users with electronic devices
US6989763B2 (en) * 2002-02-15 2006-01-24 Wall Justin D Web-based universal remote control
US20060101338A1 (en) * 2004-11-08 2006-05-11 Lawrence Kates Touch-screen remote control for multimedia equipment
US7184649B2 (en) * 2000-05-23 2007-02-27 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Commercial-break detection device
US7190345B2 (en) * 2001-07-12 2007-03-13 Sony Corporation Remote controller and system having the same

Family Cites Families (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5900868A (en) * 1997-04-01 1999-05-04 Ati International Method and apparatus for multiple channel display
US6870573B2 (en) * 1999-01-22 2005-03-22 Intel Corporation Method and apparatus for dynamically generating a visual program summary from a multi-source video feed
US6401059B1 (en) * 1999-05-25 2002-06-04 International Business Machines Corporation Method and system for using a personal digital assistant as a remote control
WO2002052856A2 (en) 2000-11-27 2002-07-04 Tvgrid, Inc. Program guide system
US7793319B2 (en) * 2004-04-27 2010-09-07 Gateway, Inc. System and method for improved channel surfing

Patent Citations (19)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6983418B1 (en) * 1995-03-24 2006-01-03 The Board Of Trustees Of The Leland Stanford Junior Varsity Devices and methods for interfacing human users with electronic devices
US6469633B1 (en) * 1997-01-06 2002-10-22 Openglobe Inc. Remote control of electronic devices
US5956025A (en) * 1997-06-09 1999-09-21 Philips Electronics North America Corporation Remote with 3D organized GUI for a home entertainment system
US6020930A (en) * 1997-08-28 2000-02-01 Sony Corporation Method and apparatus for generating and displaying a broadcast system program guide
US6496122B2 (en) * 1998-06-26 2002-12-17 Sharp Laboratories Of America, Inc. Image display and remote control system capable of displaying two distinct images
US6437836B1 (en) * 1998-09-21 2002-08-20 Navispace, Inc. Extended functionally remote control system and method therefore
US7184649B2 (en) * 2000-05-23 2007-02-27 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Commercial-break detection device
US20020140571A1 (en) * 2001-01-29 2002-10-03 Hayes Patrick H. System and method for using a hand held device to display product information
US20020171670A1 (en) * 2001-04-04 2002-11-21 International Business Machines Corporation System for integrating personalized data with visual content
US7190345B2 (en) * 2001-07-12 2007-03-13 Sony Corporation Remote controller and system having the same
US20030035074A1 (en) * 2001-08-17 2003-02-20 Dubil Thomas James Remote control device having a display for displaying a television channel guide
US20030035075A1 (en) * 2001-08-20 2003-02-20 Butler Michelle A. Method and system for providing improved user input capability for interactive television
US6747591B1 (en) * 2001-11-20 2004-06-08 Universal Electronics Inc. System and method for retrieving information while commanding operation of an appliance
US20030103088A1 (en) * 2001-11-20 2003-06-05 Universal Electronics Inc. User interface for a remote control application
US20030095156A1 (en) * 2001-11-20 2003-05-22 Universal Electronics Inc. Hand held remote control device having an improved user interface
US6989763B2 (en) * 2002-02-15 2006-01-24 Wall Justin D Web-based universal remote control
US20050110909A1 (en) * 2002-04-04 2005-05-26 Staunton Declan M. Digital remote control device
US20060101338A1 (en) * 2004-11-08 2006-05-11 Lawrence Kates Touch-screen remote control for multimedia equipment
US7461343B2 (en) * 2004-11-08 2008-12-02 Lawrence Kates Touch-screen remote control for multimedia equipment

Cited By (20)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8443397B2 (en) * 2006-12-27 2013-05-14 Kyocera Corporation Broadcast receiving apparatus
US20100319024A1 (en) * 2006-12-27 2010-12-16 Kyocera Corporation Broadcast Receiving Apparatus
US20090113495A1 (en) * 2007-10-30 2009-04-30 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Display apparatus and control method thereof
US20100162118A1 (en) * 2008-12-24 2010-06-24 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Method and apparatus for providing gui
US9143343B2 (en) * 2008-12-24 2015-09-22 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Method and apparatus for providing GUI
US10033545B2 (en) 2008-12-24 2018-07-24 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Method and apparatus for providing GUI
US20100225594A1 (en) * 2009-01-05 2010-09-09 Hipolito Saenz Video frame recorder
US8301270B2 (en) * 2009-01-27 2012-10-30 Eldon Technology Ltd. Systems and methods for facilitating home automation
US20130090746A1 (en) * 2009-01-27 2013-04-11 Eldon Technology Ltd. Systems and methods for facilitating home automation
US20100191352A1 (en) * 2009-01-27 2010-07-29 Eldon Technology Ltd. Systems and methods for facilitating home automation
US9158292B2 (en) * 2009-01-27 2015-10-13 Echostar Technologies L.L.C. Systems and methods for facilitating home automation
US10949079B2 (en) 2010-01-04 2021-03-16 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Electronic device combining functions of touch screen and remote control and operation control method thereof
US20110167370A1 (en) * 2010-01-04 2011-07-07 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Electronic device including touch screen and operation control method thereof
US10503389B2 (en) 2010-01-04 2019-12-10 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Electronic device combining functions of touch screen and remote control and operation control method thereof
US9595186B2 (en) * 2010-01-04 2017-03-14 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Electronic device combining functions of touch screen and remote control and operation control method thereof
US20130247102A1 (en) * 2010-02-06 2013-09-19 Frontier Communications Corporation Method and system to request audiovisual content items matched to programs identified in a program grid
US8930997B2 (en) * 2010-02-06 2015-01-06 Frontier Communications Corporation Method and system to request audiovisual content items matched to programs identified in a program grid
US8863186B2 (en) 2010-02-06 2014-10-14 Frontier Communications Corporation Management and delivery of audiovisual content items that corresponds to scheduled programs
US20110201298A1 (en) * 2010-02-18 2011-08-18 Jerome Gelover Substitution of a telephone land line based home alarm system with a cell phone connection based system
US9189070B2 (en) 2010-09-24 2015-11-17 Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha Content display device, content display method, portable terminal, program, and recording medium

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN101057208A (en) 2007-10-17
WO2006052347A1 (en) 2006-05-18
RU2007120872A (en) 2008-12-20
BRPI0517530A (en) 2008-10-14
JP2008519550A (en) 2008-06-05
US7461343B2 (en) 2008-12-02
MX2007005304A (en) 2007-06-11
AU2005305305A1 (en) 2006-05-18
CA2585897A1 (en) 2006-05-18
US20060101338A1 (en) 2006-05-11
KR20070085536A (en) 2007-08-27
EP1812846A1 (en) 2007-08-01

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US7461343B2 (en) Touch-screen remote control for multimedia equipment
US10021443B2 (en) Personal video recorder systems and methods
US9369659B2 (en) Pointing capability and associated user interface elements for television user interfaces
US7212249B1 (en) Television schedule system with pop-up action menu and icons
US9239837B2 (en) Remote control system for connected devices
EP2209309A1 (en) Terminal device, broadcasting receiving apparatus and control method thereof
US20090150922A1 (en) Interactive Program Guide with Selectable Updating
KR20080094832A (en) Multi-channel parallel digital video recorder
US20030093791A1 (en) System and method for interactive television
JP5739904B2 (en) System and method for navigating program items in a media guidance application
US20090150938A1 (en) Unifying User Interface for a Set-Top Box
US20100171878A1 (en) Systems and methods for selecting and displaying video content
EP2329643B1 (en) Systems and methods for graphical control of user interface features provided by a television receiver
WO2021197068A1 (en) Display device and content recommendation method
JP3655067B2 (en) Device having dialog interface and program recording medium used therefor

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: KNOBBE, MARTENS, OLSON & BEAR, LLP, CALIFORNIA

Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:KATES, LAWRENCE;REEL/FRAME:022460/0472

Effective date: 20090121

Owner name: KNOBBE, MARTENS, OLSON & BEAR, LLP,CALIFORNIA

Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:KATES, LAWRENCE;REEL/FRAME:022460/0472

Effective date: 20090121

STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION

AS Assignment

Owner name: NEST LABS, INC., CALIFORNIA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:KATES, LAWRENCE;REEL/FRAME:031658/0179

Effective date: 20130927

Owner name: NEST LABS, INC., CALIFORNIA

Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:KNOBBE, MARTENS, OLSON & BEAR LLP;REEL/FRAME:031658/0093

Effective date: 20130927

AS Assignment

Owner name: NEST LABS, INC., CALIFORNIA

Free format text: CORRECTIVE ASSIGNMENT TO CORRECT THE INADVERTENT ADDITION OF U.S.PATENT NO. 8,101,892 TO THE LIST. ALL OTHER NUMBERS REMAIN AS PREVIOUSLY RECORDED ON REEL 031658 FRAME 0093. ASSIGNOR(S) HEREBY CONFIRMS THE U.S. PATENT NO. 8,101,892 IS TO BE REMOVED;ASSIGNOR:KNOBBE, MARTENS, OLSON & BEAR LLP;REEL/FRAME:033429/0848

Effective date: 20130927

AS Assignment

Owner name: NEST LABS, INC., CALIFORNIA

Free format text: CORRECTIVE ASSIGNMENT TO CORRECT THE INADVERTENT PATENT NO. 8,101,892 TO BE REMOVED PREVIOUSLY RECORDED AT REEL: 031658 FRAME: 0179. ASSIGNOR(S) HEREBY CONFIRMS THE ASSIGNMENT;ASSIGNOR:KATES, LAWRENCE;REEL/FRAME:033452/0413

Effective date: 20130927