CA2246496A1 - Universal remote control system - Google Patents
Universal remote control system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2246496A1 CA2246496A1 CA002246496A CA2246496A CA2246496A1 CA 2246496 A1 CA2246496 A1 CA 2246496A1 CA 002246496 A CA002246496 A CA 002246496A CA 2246496 A CA2246496 A CA 2246496A CA 2246496 A1 CA2246496 A1 CA 2246496A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- remote control
- readable media
- media storage
- storage device
- memory
- 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
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Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G08—SIGNALLING
- G08C—TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS FOR MEASURED VALUES, CONTROL OR SIMILAR SIGNALS
- G08C19/00—Electric signal transmission systems
- G08C19/16—Electric signal transmission systems in which transmission is by pulses
- G08C19/28—Electric signal transmission systems in which transmission is by pulses using pulse code
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- 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
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- 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
- H04N21/41—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
- H04N21/42225—User interfaces specially adapted for controlling a client device through a remote control device; Remote control devices therefor characterized by hardware details characterized by types of remote control, e.g. universal remote control
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- 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
- H04N21/47—End-user applications
- H04N21/478—Supplemental services, e.g. displaying phone caller identification, shopping application
-
- 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
- H04N21/42212—Specific keyboard arrangements
- H04N21/42213—Specific keyboard arrangements for facilitating data entry
Abstract
A system whereby a user configurable universal remote control has its device library, that is the code data needed to operate various electronics devices, supplied separately from a releasable readable media storage device, such as a Smart Card. The universal remote control is built with a reader slot into which the customer can insert separately purchased Smart Cards to configure the remote control for exactly those electronic devices he/she wishes to control.
A signal transmitting system, such as for example a cable television operator, which provides services to a number of individual receiver sets, and wherein the sets each include an associated remote control unit the method of controlling the functions and operation of each set with relation to said system by utilizing a Smart Card which cooperates with the remote control unit to selectively control, enable and disable the functions, options and/or equipment of the individual subscriber.
A signal transmitting system, such as for example a cable television operator, which provides services to a number of individual receiver sets, and wherein the sets each include an associated remote control unit the method of controlling the functions and operation of each set with relation to said system by utilizing a Smart Card which cooperates with the remote control unit to selectively control, enable and disable the functions, options and/or equipment of the individual subscriber.
Description
. CA 02246496 l998-09-03 UN~VERSAL REMOTE, CONTROL SYSTEM
Background of the Invention:
The present invention is directed to a universal remote control system which includes the use of a releasable readable media storage device, such as a Smart Card (herein referred to as "Smart Card" or "Card"), in transferring information and data to/from the remote control. A
5 typical releasable readable media storage device is characterized as a device with a non-volatile memory and, in many cases, a microprocessor, which can be releasably mated with a reading device. For example, a Smart Card includes one or more chips (integrated circuits) that are imbedded in the Card for receiving and storing information and data. This information and data can then be "read" from or "written" to the Smart Card.
Smart Cards are in wide spread use and can be broadly classified as either contact, contactless or hybrid Cards. The contact type of Card utilizes appropriate technology to establish a physical electrical contact with an associated device which can read the information on the Smart Card. In the contactless type, the Card is passed over the appropriate technology to be powered by suitable inductive coils and the Card then sends a signal through capacitive plates. A hybrid 15 type of Card is a combination of the two foregoing types. While any of the foregoing types of ('ards could be used in the present invention, the preferred embodiment utilizes a contact type Card which connects to an associated remote control, as will be described. Other types of readable media storage devices which can be used in the present invention include virtually any type of releasable media storage device, and the invention is not limited to the use of a Smart 20 C'ard.
The present invention relates to a user-configurable-universal remote control having its device codes, that is the sets of code data needed to operate various electronic devices, supplied 278~134 CA 02246496 l998-09-03 from a releasable readable media storage device. In the preferred embodiment, this readable media sforage device is a Smart Card. The universal remote control unit is provided or sold to a particular user essentially "empty" of the code data needed to configure the remote control to tllat user's television, video cassette recorder ("VCR"), cable box, Internet access device or other 5 electronic device. The universal remote control is built with a reader slot or port into which the user can insert separately purchased "device library" Cards which contain the sets of code data necessary to configure the remote control to operate all or some of those electronic devices the user wishes to control. Additional sets of code data can be added to the remote control any time the user obtains a new electronic device, up to the maximum capacity of the remote control, 10 through the use of additional Smart Cards.
The releasable readable media storage device, i.e., Smart Card, to be utilized in the present invention contains a compilation of the device codes suitable for use with a particular universal remote control, and allows a one time transfer of a single device code (i.e., the set of code data needed to remotely operate a particular electronic device) from the readable media storage device 15 into the remote control's on board, non-volatile memory. In the preferred embodiment, a Smart ('ard constructed of low cost material is utilized and is good for only one use. In one alternative embodiment, each Smart Card is designed for more than one use. In another alternative embodiment, the universal remote control system of the present invention is designed so that information/data from the remote control can be downloaded into and remain stored in a releasable 20 readable media storage device, e.g, a certain device code may be transferred from the remote control to a Smart Card. In a more complicated embodiment involving two-way communication between the remote control and an electronic device, the universal remote control of the subject invention contains an infrarec receiver for the purpose of receiving information from a television, 2~8713.4 - 2 -computer or other electronic device and a means for transferring such information into the memory of a readable media storage device releasably mateable with that remote control. In such an embodiment, information/data can be transferred from a user's electronic device to the remote control to the readable media storage device, e.g. a video coupon appearing on a television could S be transferred from the television to the remote control and then to a Smart Card for later use in a store or other shopping facility where the coupon could be redeemed.
In the preferred embodiment, to set up the universal remote control to operate a particular electronic device, a Smart Card must be inserted into a reader slot or port in tne remote control.
The location of this reader slot can vary depending on the design requirements of a particular 10 universal remote control. Once the Card is inserted into the reader slot or port, the user is able to experiment with various device codes until he finds the one which will operate his electronic device. Once the user locks in a particular device code, that device code (i.e., set of code data) is transferred into the remote control's non-volatile memory and the balance of the code data on the Card is either erased or blocked from further use.
Another application of the present invention is in the cable television industry. Operators which provide cable or satellite television service to a number of subscriber's receiver sets are faced with the necessity of m~int~inin~ control of the service provided to each of the individual sets. Conversely, subscribers to such cable and satellite services each have individual needs and requirements as to the channels, features and functions available on and to their television sets.
20 For example, a cable or satellite service provider offers various types of services to its television subscribers and each subscriber normally has a choice of selecting what channels and/or what programs he or she desires to receive. Accordingly, a service provider must be able to provide the desired service to each subscriber, and the provider must be able to keep track and control over 2787 13 .4 CA 02246496 l998-09-03 ehe type of service provided to each subscriber. A subscriber may also want to periodically change or vary the services or functions available on his or her set, or to add equipment to his or her entertainment system.
At present there are various ways for the service providers to track and m~int~in control 5 of such service, and various ways for the subscriber to change the service he or she receives or the functions available to him or her. However, the known methods and apparatus for m~int~ining such control and/or making such changes are relatively expensive and cumbersome. The functions, services and equipment currently known are not readily flexible to meet the individual subscriber's needs. The present invention addresses these disadvantages of these known methods 10 and apparatus.
In the system, method and apparatus of the present invention, the user's remote control unit has slots or ports for accommodating one or more releasable readable media storage devices. The releasable readable media storage device of the present invention is utilized in a unique manner with the remote control to provide code data to the remote control and to provide control 15 comrnands and programming data to the associated electronic devices, as will be described. In addition, the universal remote control system of the present invention can be utilized for two-way communication and used for home shopping, electronic banking, and pay-per-view movie purchase.
Background Art:
A patent of interest relative to the present invention is U.S. Patent No. 5,214,622 which discloses a television monitor including a remote control. The remote control is provided with a slot into which memory caras are inserted. The remote control of U.S. Patent No. 5,214,622 is adapted to use a memory card to provide information which can be transferred between the remote ~787134 - 4 -CA 02246496 l998-09-03 control and the display means. U.S. Patent No. 5,214,622 is basically directed to providing a calendar timer superimposed on the television display serving as a reference for displaying the information. The remote control àlso contains a transparent pressure sensitive pad covering a liquid crystal display for inputting hand written information7 as well as the standard alpha-5 numerical and symbol keys for inputting remote control commands such as channel selection,volume control, etc.
Another patent of interest with respect to the present invention is U.S. Patent No.
5,594,493 which discloses a Smart Card utilized with a television system. The Smart Card disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,594,493 has a photoelectric optical pick-up device embedded in the lO Card for receiving and storing a signal from the television set. The stored data can be subsequently displayed and read. The Card of U.S. Patent No. 5,594,493 is used to record data relating to product identification for use in product promotion and sales. The Cards allow advertisers to make specia] offers of products to the Card holders for use within specific and varied time periods. The patent states that the Card affords a nearly fail safe data transmission via 15 standard computer and television transmission methods.
Summary of Invention:
The present invention relates to a user-configurable universal remote control having its device codes, that is the sets of code data needed to operate various electronic devices including Internet access devices, supplied from a releasable readable media storage device. (The system 20 of the present invention can also be utilized with a dedicated remote control wherein the code data rleeded to operate a particular electronic device is supplied to the dedicated remote control from a releasable readable media storage device.) In the preferred embodiment, this readable media storage device is a Smart Card. The universal remote control is provided or sold to a particular user essentially "empty" of the code data needed to configure the remote control to that user's television, ~CR, cable box, Internet access device or other electronic device. The universal remote control is built wi~h a reader slot into which the user can insert separately purchased "device library" Cards which contain the sets of code data necessary to configure the remote S control to operate all or some of those electronic devices the user wishes to control. Additional sets of code data can be added to the remote control at any time the user obtains a new electronic device, up to the maximum capacity of the remote control, through the use of additional Smart Cards.
The releasable readable media storage device, i.e., Smart Card, to be utilized in the present 10 invention contains a compilation of the device codes suitable for use with a particular universal remote control, and allows a one time transfer of a single device code (i.e., the set of code data needed to remotely operate a particular electronic device) from the readable media storage device into the remote control's on board, non-volatile memory. In the preferred embodiment, a Smart Card constructed of low COSt materials is utilized and is good for only one use. In one alternative 15 embodiment, each Smart Card is designed for more than one use. In another alternative embodiment, the universal remote control system of the present invention is designed so that information from the remote control can be downloaded into and remain stored in a releasable readable media storage device, e.g, a certain device code may be transferred from the remote rontrol to the releasable readable media storage device. In a more complicated embodiment 20 involving two-way comm~nication between the remote control and an electronic device, the ~niversal remote control of the subject invention contains an infrared receiver for the purpose of receiving information from a television, computer or other electronic device and a means for ~ransferring and storing such information in the memory of a readable media storage device 278713.4 - 6 -CA 02246496 l998-09-03 releasably mateable with that remote control. In such an embodiment, information can therefore be transferred from a user's electronic device to the remote control to the readable media storage device and stored in that device's memory for later use, e.g. a video coupon appearing on a television could be transferred from the television to the remote control and then to a Smart Card 5 for later use in a store or other shopping facility where the coupon could be redeemed.
To set up the universal remote control to operate a particular electronic device, a releasable readable media storage device, namely a Smart Card, must be inserted into a reader slot in the remote control. The location of this reader slot can vary depending on the design requirements of a particular universal remote control. Once the Card is inserted into the reader slot, the user 10 is able to experiment with various device codes until he finds the one which will operate his electronic device. Once the user locks in a particular device code, that code is transferred into the remote control's non-volatile memory and the balance of the code data on the Card is either erased or blocked from further use uslng known techniques.
The foregoing system can be used with any electronic device and/or any Internet access 15 device utilizing a remote control. The releasable readable media storage device will include code data for progr~mming the remote control and can also include additional data for controlling the t'unctions and features of the various electronic devices which are controllable by said remote control.
The foregoing features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the 20 f'ollowing more particular description of the invention. The accompanying drawings, listed hereinbelow, are useful in explaining the invention.
CA 02246496 l998-09-03 Description of Drawings:
Fig. 1 is a front view of a remote control including an internally mounted connector for receiving a releasable readable medià storage device which is inserted in a slot opening to the side of the remote control;
S Fig. 2 is a side view of the remote control of Fig. l;
Fig. 3 is a side view of a modification of the remote control of Fig. 1, wherein the connector is formed to be externally mounted on the remote control; the Smart Card is inserted in a slot opening to the top of the remote control;
Fig. 4 shows a drawing of a Smart Card used in the present invention;
Fig. SA is a schematic diagram of the Srnart Card interface as in a remote control;
Fig. SB is the schernatic diagram of Figure 5A with the addition of an infrared receiver;
Fig. 6 is a flow chart of an operation of the Smart Card of the invention;
Fig. 7 is a flow chart showing the logic implemented to permit the Smart Card and EEPROM interfaces to share common electrical connections;
Fig. 8 shows a series of steps of illustrating the concept of inputting data into an empty remote control; and Fig. 9 shows a series of steps illustrating the concept of inputting data to enhance the functionality of the remote control.
Fig. 10 shows a series of steps illustrating an electronic transaction utilizing the present 20 invention.
Oescription of the Inventior.:
The present invention discloses new and unique uses for a system including a universal remote control and a releasable readable media storage device. The releasable readable media 278713.4 - 8 -storage device and remote control of the present invention can also provide control for additional equipment including Internet accessible devices. The present in~ention also enables the releasable readable media storage device to intèract with the remote control to vary, change and control the functions of a television receiver, cable box or satellite decoder receiving signals from a service 5 operator. Importantly each user can, by using the appropriate releasable readable media storage device, readily and conveniently configure his remote control to the desired functions, features and channels he obtains from the service operator.
Figs. 1 and 2 show a remote control 11, generally patterned after so called universal remote controls of suitable known type. In addition to the standard components and circuitry, 10 remote control 11 includes a connector 12 for a releasable readable media storage device, a Smart Card 15 in the preferred embodiment, which selectively reads and writes to the remote control 11.
Connector 12 comprises a slot or port 14 and a suitable known type socket for connecting to the Smart Card 15. Slot 14 is rnolded directly into the case or body 16 of the remote control 11. Case l6 is preferably made of plastic rnaterial. In the embodiment shown, the slot 14 opens to the side of case 16. Slot or port ~4 receives a Smart Card 15 shown in Fig. 4. Smart Card 15 is approximately 3.3 x 2.1 inches in si~e.
Connector 12 can comprise a plurality of slots to accommodate or receive one or more Smart Cards 15 which are inserted in respective slots in the connector 12. However, in the preferred embodiment and also for purposes of clarity in the drawing, only one slot 14 is 20 indicated. Additional slots as needed may be formed in connector 12 parallel to slot 14 or elsewhere in the remote control 11.
The electrical and mechanical interface of Smart Card 15 with the remote control 11 conforms to, and complies with, the international standard ISO 7816 for integrated circuit cards 278713.4 - 9 -CA 02246496 l998-09-03 which have an interface Wit~l electrical contacts. Each slot 14 formed in connector 12 would have a similar interface.
It should be clearly understood that, while the electrical and mechanical interface used in Smart Card 15 is in accordance with ISO 7816 standards, in the preferred embodiment shown the 5 software protocols and data being transferred are unique to the present invention. However, in other applications, the protocol(s) and/or data transferred may correspond to a pre-existing standard format suited to that application, e.g. home banking as explained below.
Fig. 3 shows a modification llA of the remote control 11 of Figs. 1 and 2. In the embodiment of Fig. 3, the coMector l~A is formed essentially as a box externally of the case 16A
and appropriately affixed to the case 16A. In the embodiment of Fig. 3, the slot 12A opens upwardly, as in-lic"t~d by the dotted lines in the Figure, and the Smart Card 15 is inserted into the slot 14A from the top of the remote control 11. The operation of the remote control 11 and the Smart Card 15 as depicted in Fig. 3 are the same as for the embodiment of Figs. 1 and 2.
Fig. 5A shows the electronic circuitry 20 for the remote control 11 and the Smart Card 15.
The circuitry of Fig. 5A, and the operation of the circuitry are well known, hence detailed description is not believed necessary. Microprocessor 26 may be of any suitable known type. The keypad 28 (which includes the various known television TV and VCR function keys depicted in Fig. 1) enables user inputs to microprocessor 26. Referring to the lower left hand corner of Fig.
5A, the connector 12 receives the Smart Card 15 and connects via leads 23 and 24 to the remote control 15 microprocessor '6. The connector 12 also supplies power from the remote control batteries 33 to the chip on the Smart Card via connections 34 and 35. Additionally, a contact is provided within connector 12, attached to lead 36, which is used to notify the microprocessor 26 that a Smart Card 15 has been inserted, as is described in greater detail later in conjunction with CA 02246496 l998-09-03 the flowchart of Figure 6. The data in Smart Card lS selectively control or alter the functionality of the microprocessor 26 in accordance with the data programmed and stored in Smart Card 15.
Microprocessor 26 can also write to Card 15.
As will be explainec hereinbelow, the Smart Card technology of the present invention can 5 be used to enable the remote control to alter various configurable features and/or information in a remo~e control or on the controlled devices, such as a television set; and, the Smart Card can be used to add code data for different electronic devices to be controlled by a universal remote control. Figure 5B shows the electronic circuitry of a remote control (as explained above with reference to Figure 5A) which includes an infrared receiving means 37.
The flowchart of Figure 6 describes the operation of the Smart Card lS and remote control 11 circuitry of Figures SA and 5B. Initially, the microprocessor 26 is in a ~sleep," or shut down mode in order to minimi7e power consumption and conserve battery life. Insertion of the Smart Card 15 into slot 14 closes 2. contact which, via transistor 29 and capacitor 30, generates a pulse on the IRQ - (Interrupt Request) input pin 31 of the microprocessor 26. Receipt of this signal 1~ causes the microprocessor 26 to exit the previously described low power shut down state and begin normal execution. First, the microprocessor 26 inspects the status of the keypad matrix 28 in order to determine if it was "woken up" by the user pressing a key. (If a keypress was the cause of the IRQ signal, the microprocessor 26 would then proceed to execute the indicated remote control function in the normal way.) In the embodiment described in Figure 6, however, the 20 microprocessor 26 will determine that no key has been pressed, as described in block 1 of Figure 6. Initially, the first byte of data on the Smart Card 15 is read and evaluated to determine if the C'ard lS is of the correct type. If not, the microprocessor 26 returns to its idle state, as described in block 4 of Figure 6. Next, the microprocessor 26 validates the memory block header stored 2~8713.4 CA 02246496 l998-09-03 on the Smart Card lS. This header contains information indicating where in the remote control's non-volatile memory the following Smart Card data bytes are to be stored, and for what purpose.
If an invalid header is detected7 the rnicroprocessor 26 signals the user (by, for example, flashing the visible LED 32)7 and returns to the idle state7 as described in block 7 of Figure 6. Once a 5 valid block header has been found7 the balance of the data in that block on the Smart Card 15 i copied from the Smart Card lS to the RAM memory 27 of the microprocessor 26, and then from there to the designated target address within the remote control's non-volatile memory, as described in blocks 8 and 9 of Figure 6. On completion of this transfer, the microprocessor logic returns, as described in block S of Figure 6, to check for another data block contained on the 10 Smart Card lS. If one is found (as evidenced by a second valid memory block header immediately flowing the end of the first data block)7 the transfer cycle is repeated. This process continues until no further valid data blocks are found7 at which point the microprocessor 26 now checks the Card type previously acquired to determine if the Smart Card 15 currently inserted in connector 12 is the "single use" type. If so, the microprocessor 26 writes data to the memory contained on the 15 Smart Card lS in order to erase or otherwise disable future use of the Card 157 as described in blocks 10 and 11 of Figure 6. The microprocessor 26 then signals the user and returns to the idle state as described in block 7 of Figure 6. In certain applications of the present invention, it may be desirable to provide addit1onal security to the information and data stored on said Smart Card.
In connection with such embodiments of the present invention, various security and encryption 20 systems, including but not limited to a requirement that the user first activate the Smart Card through the use of a unique personal identification number ("PIN") keyed in by the user, have been proposed or implemented and are well known in the art.
278713.4 -I 2 -CA 02246496 l998-09-03 In the preferred embodiment shown in Figure SA, the Smart Card interface signals 23 and 24 are shared with those of the remote control's non-volatile memory EEPROM 27. Since the Smart Card 15 and EEPROM 27 have similar electrical interfaces, this allows common firmware code and microprocessor input/output pins to be used to communicate with both devices.
5 Accordingly, a circuit and program logic must be provided to select which device is active at which time. This is accomplished by connecting an input/output port pin 38 on the microprocessor 26 in such a manner that when it is in one state it disables the onboard EEPROM 27 via its enable/disable pin 25 while simultaneously enabling output of the clock signal 24 to the Smart Card connector via transistor 39, while in the other state it enables the onboard EEPROM 27 while 10 disabling the clock output to the Smart Card connection. The flowchart of Figure 7 describes how this is accomplished by the firmware during the process of reading data from the Smart Card lS, e.g. while performing the f'unctions shown in blocks 2, 5 and 8 of Figure 6. The same process would be performed by the firmware in order to select the Smart Card 15 as a target to write data.
A basic concept of c ne embodiment of the present invention is to provide a standardized 1~ r emote control 11 with separately available code data for operating different electronic devices.
'Various Smart Cards are made available for VCRs, for televisions, for stereos, etc. Each Smart Card 15 in the library has code data and programming to control different features, functions and equipment, such as on the television, the VCR and stereo in a user's home entertainment system.
In one embodiment. a user has a remote control 11 which is capable of controlling six 20 devices. Initially the user may acquire "device library cards," to thereby provide code data to control three of the six possible devices supported by the remote control 11. If the user subsequently acquires a digital video disc ("DVD"), he can obtain the appropriate Smart Card for controlling the DVD via the remote control 11.
2~8713.4 -I 3 -CA 02246496 l998-09-03 In the embodiment described in Fig. 8, the remote control l l is essentially empty of code data. A Smart Card is provided to enable and control the features and equipment of the individual user. In this embodimem, the remote control ll is essentially passive and is activated by a selected Smart Card 15. As depicted in Fig. 8, the user obtains and inserts the desired Smart Card 5 into slot 12 of the remote control 11. The user selects the device code that matches his equipment to load the code data and progr~mmin~ for the selected functions and equipment into the remote control l l. Once the user locks in a particular device code that code alone is transferred into the remote control l l, and the Card may be erased or disabled.
The user separately acquires Smart Cards lS to configure the remote control 11 for exactly 10 ~hose items of service, equipment, or channels he wishes to control. New items, features, functions and equipment are added at any time, up to the maximum capacity of the remote control 11.
Fig. 9 depicts a second embodiment in which the remote control 11 is preloaded with code data for basic functions and/or equipment. To enable the user to enhance his equipment, Smart 15 Cards are made available that allow purchase of additional function groups of the user's choice or option such as PIP, rnenu, surround sound adjustments, etc. Also, the remote control 11 may be pre-loaded with a universal library for the basic devices (televisions, VCRs, cable boxes) together with Cards to enable operation of individual additional equipment (DVD, satellite, etc.) as the user adds this equipment to his entertainment system.
The Smart Cards 15 can be designed to allow a single or one time transfer of code data from the Smart Card into the onboard, non-volatile memory of the remote control 11. Since a Smart Card can be configured to provide essentially a single use it may be fabricated of low-cost materials to be relatively inexpensive. A one-time use capability of the Smart Card 15 acts as a 278713.4 -1 4 -CA 02246496 l998-09-03 validity and security check to assure that only authorized devices or functions are controlled or changed by a Smart Card 15. After use, the Smart Card 15 may be discarded. In a modification of the foregoing embodiment, the Smart Card 15 is erased after entry of its input to the remote control 11, and thereafter the "blank" Smart Card 15 may be recorded and reprogrammed for 5 further use.
By use of the Smart ~ard technology of the present invention the user can conveniently add to the devices operated by his remote control l l and the capability of his cable system. For instance, during the hockey season the user can sign on to receive the desired various sports channels for a limited time period. For such use, the cable provider mails an updated Srrlart Card 10 15 to the user and the user inserts the Smart Card 15 into the remote to enable his or her system to receive the desired sport channels for that limited period.
As stated above, remote controls 11 are fabricated with features that are enabled or disabled, and various built-in features may be enabled or disabled via Smart Card 15 loaded information. For the cable/satellite service provider, this means that they can selectively 15 enable/disable various buttons or functions on the remote control 11, depending on what the individual customer has requested. Further this allows a distinct pricing of individual features such as sleep timer, tirne delay macro playback, favorite channel scan etc.
The Smart Card 15 can be updated to reflect changes in channel line up. A cable or satellite service provider whc offers direct channel access keys on its remote control could simply 20 mail an inexpensive Smart Card 15 out to all users whenever the channel line up changes. Thus, the Smart Card 15 becomes the means for delivery of upgraded subscription information, and can be used to modify a customer's service and update the remote control 11 as well.
278713.4 -1 5 -Since the remote control ll can transfer data into a Smart Card 15, Smart Cards are provided that limit access to a particular feature or television program, e.g. five pay-per view movies, monthly or special sport coverage, etc. The Smart Card 15 can, in effect, provide a credit card type of transaction. The remote control 11 is coded to send a particular control signal to the 5 receiver a pre-set number of times, and can specify the data to send. The remote control l l updates and decrements the authorized number in the Smart Card 15 each time the feature is used, and terminates when the count reaches zero. Alternatively, the remote control 11 can load the counter updated information from the Smart Card 15 into its own internal storage and operated therefrom. In this latter case, after transfer of the information, the Smart Card 15 is erased or 10 disabled, and the card can be discarded.
Another significant use for Smart Card system of the present invention is to limit access to programs of different viewer rating. For example, children in a household have a Smart Card 15 that permits them to view selected programs on the cable system, or to access limited sites on the Internet. In contrast, the parents have Smart Cards with a broader choice of TV programs 15 and/or an unrestricted access to the Internet.
The flowchart in Figure 10 depicts another type of operation of the Smart Card 15, when used in a remote control 11 with electronic circuitry such as in shown in Figure 5B, which includes an infrared receiver 37 in addition to the usual infrared transmitter. The addition of an infrared receiver 37 enables the microprocessor in the remote control 11 to engage in bi-directional 20 communication with other devices such as a cable box, DBS receiver, Internet access device or specialized terminal device (referred to hereafter as "base unit"). There are many different methods and techniques for formatting and modulating data for transmission via infrared or other medium, all of which are well known and are hence not described here. It will also be appreciated 27B713,4 - 16 -CA 02246496 l998-09-03 that although the preferred embodiment uses infrared to implement this bi-directional communication, similar results could be obtained using other transmission technologies such as radio frequency, ultrasonic etc.
The Smart Card transaction is initiated by insertion of the Card 15 in the same way as 5 previously described in conjunction with the flowchart of Figure 6. This is described in blocks 1 through 4 of Figure 10. Once the microprocessor 26 has determined that the card type is "interactive" it enters a loop in which it successively checks for user keyboard 28 input (block 5), checks the infrared receiver 37 for data from the base unit (blocks 6 and 7), verifies that the Smart ('ard 15 is still inserted in the slot 14 (block 15), and repeats this sequence until either the card 10 15 is removed (at which point it returns to the idle state) or a command message is received from the base unit. The objective of this process is to allow the user of the remote control 11 to initiate a transaction with the base unit by keying in data on the remote control (for example a menu selection, a PIN, or some other information). Once the base unit has determined that a valid transaction is to occur, it the~ transmits a command to the remote control 11 to access data on the 15 Smart Card 15, such as a cash balance, a pay-per-view movie credit, etc. This series of events are shown in the subsequent portion of the flowchart. At block 9 of Figure 10, the remote control 11 examines the response command from the base unit. If it is "transaction complete," the remote control 11 signals the user (block 8) and returns to the idle state. If the response command is not "transaction complete," the remote control 11 then determines if the response is a command to 20 read or to write Smart Card data (block 10), what location in the Smart Card's memory is to be accessed, and acts accordingly (blocks 11 and 12). If the command was a "write," the remote control 11 then signals completion to the base unit (block 14). After executing the read or write function, the remote control 11 returns to the original state (block 5) awaiting further action by 278713.4 - 17-CA 02246496 l998-09-03 the user or base unit. A typical transaction might consist of several of these sequences as, for example, the base unit first reads an account balance from the Smart Card 15, then interacts with the user to finalize a purchase, and finally debits the account balance and writes the updated value back to the Smart Card memory.
It will also be appreciated from the foregoing descriptions and the flowcharts of Figures 6 and 10, since the Smart G~rd type and function is identified in the data stored on the Card, that a single Smart Card can serve more than one purpose. Furthermore, these are not necessarily limited to only remote control applications. For example, a single Smart Card could contain data to both enable new subscription channels on a cable box or DBS recelver via that base units own Smart Card reader, and data to update the remote control functionality to enable access to that channel.
While the invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to a particular embodiment thereof it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the 1 5 invention.
Background of the Invention:
The present invention is directed to a universal remote control system which includes the use of a releasable readable media storage device, such as a Smart Card (herein referred to as "Smart Card" or "Card"), in transferring information and data to/from the remote control. A
5 typical releasable readable media storage device is characterized as a device with a non-volatile memory and, in many cases, a microprocessor, which can be releasably mated with a reading device. For example, a Smart Card includes one or more chips (integrated circuits) that are imbedded in the Card for receiving and storing information and data. This information and data can then be "read" from or "written" to the Smart Card.
Smart Cards are in wide spread use and can be broadly classified as either contact, contactless or hybrid Cards. The contact type of Card utilizes appropriate technology to establish a physical electrical contact with an associated device which can read the information on the Smart Card. In the contactless type, the Card is passed over the appropriate technology to be powered by suitable inductive coils and the Card then sends a signal through capacitive plates. A hybrid 15 type of Card is a combination of the two foregoing types. While any of the foregoing types of ('ards could be used in the present invention, the preferred embodiment utilizes a contact type Card which connects to an associated remote control, as will be described. Other types of readable media storage devices which can be used in the present invention include virtually any type of releasable media storage device, and the invention is not limited to the use of a Smart 20 C'ard.
The present invention relates to a user-configurable-universal remote control having its device codes, that is the sets of code data needed to operate various electronic devices, supplied 278~134 CA 02246496 l998-09-03 from a releasable readable media storage device. In the preferred embodiment, this readable media sforage device is a Smart Card. The universal remote control unit is provided or sold to a particular user essentially "empty" of the code data needed to configure the remote control to tllat user's television, video cassette recorder ("VCR"), cable box, Internet access device or other 5 electronic device. The universal remote control is built with a reader slot or port into which the user can insert separately purchased "device library" Cards which contain the sets of code data necessary to configure the remote control to operate all or some of those electronic devices the user wishes to control. Additional sets of code data can be added to the remote control any time the user obtains a new electronic device, up to the maximum capacity of the remote control, 10 through the use of additional Smart Cards.
The releasable readable media storage device, i.e., Smart Card, to be utilized in the present invention contains a compilation of the device codes suitable for use with a particular universal remote control, and allows a one time transfer of a single device code (i.e., the set of code data needed to remotely operate a particular electronic device) from the readable media storage device 15 into the remote control's on board, non-volatile memory. In the preferred embodiment, a Smart ('ard constructed of low cost material is utilized and is good for only one use. In one alternative embodiment, each Smart Card is designed for more than one use. In another alternative embodiment, the universal remote control system of the present invention is designed so that information/data from the remote control can be downloaded into and remain stored in a releasable 20 readable media storage device, e.g, a certain device code may be transferred from the remote control to a Smart Card. In a more complicated embodiment involving two-way communication between the remote control and an electronic device, the universal remote control of the subject invention contains an infrarec receiver for the purpose of receiving information from a television, 2~8713.4 - 2 -computer or other electronic device and a means for transferring such information into the memory of a readable media storage device releasably mateable with that remote control. In such an embodiment, information/data can be transferred from a user's electronic device to the remote control to the readable media storage device, e.g. a video coupon appearing on a television could S be transferred from the television to the remote control and then to a Smart Card for later use in a store or other shopping facility where the coupon could be redeemed.
In the preferred embodiment, to set up the universal remote control to operate a particular electronic device, a Smart Card must be inserted into a reader slot or port in tne remote control.
The location of this reader slot can vary depending on the design requirements of a particular 10 universal remote control. Once the Card is inserted into the reader slot or port, the user is able to experiment with various device codes until he finds the one which will operate his electronic device. Once the user locks in a particular device code, that device code (i.e., set of code data) is transferred into the remote control's non-volatile memory and the balance of the code data on the Card is either erased or blocked from further use.
Another application of the present invention is in the cable television industry. Operators which provide cable or satellite television service to a number of subscriber's receiver sets are faced with the necessity of m~int~inin~ control of the service provided to each of the individual sets. Conversely, subscribers to such cable and satellite services each have individual needs and requirements as to the channels, features and functions available on and to their television sets.
20 For example, a cable or satellite service provider offers various types of services to its television subscribers and each subscriber normally has a choice of selecting what channels and/or what programs he or she desires to receive. Accordingly, a service provider must be able to provide the desired service to each subscriber, and the provider must be able to keep track and control over 2787 13 .4 CA 02246496 l998-09-03 ehe type of service provided to each subscriber. A subscriber may also want to periodically change or vary the services or functions available on his or her set, or to add equipment to his or her entertainment system.
At present there are various ways for the service providers to track and m~int~in control 5 of such service, and various ways for the subscriber to change the service he or she receives or the functions available to him or her. However, the known methods and apparatus for m~int~ining such control and/or making such changes are relatively expensive and cumbersome. The functions, services and equipment currently known are not readily flexible to meet the individual subscriber's needs. The present invention addresses these disadvantages of these known methods 10 and apparatus.
In the system, method and apparatus of the present invention, the user's remote control unit has slots or ports for accommodating one or more releasable readable media storage devices. The releasable readable media storage device of the present invention is utilized in a unique manner with the remote control to provide code data to the remote control and to provide control 15 comrnands and programming data to the associated electronic devices, as will be described. In addition, the universal remote control system of the present invention can be utilized for two-way communication and used for home shopping, electronic banking, and pay-per-view movie purchase.
Background Art:
A patent of interest relative to the present invention is U.S. Patent No. 5,214,622 which discloses a television monitor including a remote control. The remote control is provided with a slot into which memory caras are inserted. The remote control of U.S. Patent No. 5,214,622 is adapted to use a memory card to provide information which can be transferred between the remote ~787134 - 4 -CA 02246496 l998-09-03 control and the display means. U.S. Patent No. 5,214,622 is basically directed to providing a calendar timer superimposed on the television display serving as a reference for displaying the information. The remote control àlso contains a transparent pressure sensitive pad covering a liquid crystal display for inputting hand written information7 as well as the standard alpha-5 numerical and symbol keys for inputting remote control commands such as channel selection,volume control, etc.
Another patent of interest with respect to the present invention is U.S. Patent No.
5,594,493 which discloses a Smart Card utilized with a television system. The Smart Card disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,594,493 has a photoelectric optical pick-up device embedded in the lO Card for receiving and storing a signal from the television set. The stored data can be subsequently displayed and read. The Card of U.S. Patent No. 5,594,493 is used to record data relating to product identification for use in product promotion and sales. The Cards allow advertisers to make specia] offers of products to the Card holders for use within specific and varied time periods. The patent states that the Card affords a nearly fail safe data transmission via 15 standard computer and television transmission methods.
Summary of Invention:
The present invention relates to a user-configurable universal remote control having its device codes, that is the sets of code data needed to operate various electronic devices including Internet access devices, supplied from a releasable readable media storage device. (The system 20 of the present invention can also be utilized with a dedicated remote control wherein the code data rleeded to operate a particular electronic device is supplied to the dedicated remote control from a releasable readable media storage device.) In the preferred embodiment, this readable media storage device is a Smart Card. The universal remote control is provided or sold to a particular user essentially "empty" of the code data needed to configure the remote control to that user's television, ~CR, cable box, Internet access device or other electronic device. The universal remote control is built wi~h a reader slot into which the user can insert separately purchased "device library" Cards which contain the sets of code data necessary to configure the remote S control to operate all or some of those electronic devices the user wishes to control. Additional sets of code data can be added to the remote control at any time the user obtains a new electronic device, up to the maximum capacity of the remote control, through the use of additional Smart Cards.
The releasable readable media storage device, i.e., Smart Card, to be utilized in the present 10 invention contains a compilation of the device codes suitable for use with a particular universal remote control, and allows a one time transfer of a single device code (i.e., the set of code data needed to remotely operate a particular electronic device) from the readable media storage device into the remote control's on board, non-volatile memory. In the preferred embodiment, a Smart Card constructed of low COSt materials is utilized and is good for only one use. In one alternative 15 embodiment, each Smart Card is designed for more than one use. In another alternative embodiment, the universal remote control system of the present invention is designed so that information from the remote control can be downloaded into and remain stored in a releasable readable media storage device, e.g, a certain device code may be transferred from the remote rontrol to the releasable readable media storage device. In a more complicated embodiment 20 involving two-way comm~nication between the remote control and an electronic device, the ~niversal remote control of the subject invention contains an infrared receiver for the purpose of receiving information from a television, computer or other electronic device and a means for ~ransferring and storing such information in the memory of a readable media storage device 278713.4 - 6 -CA 02246496 l998-09-03 releasably mateable with that remote control. In such an embodiment, information can therefore be transferred from a user's electronic device to the remote control to the readable media storage device and stored in that device's memory for later use, e.g. a video coupon appearing on a television could be transferred from the television to the remote control and then to a Smart Card 5 for later use in a store or other shopping facility where the coupon could be redeemed.
To set up the universal remote control to operate a particular electronic device, a releasable readable media storage device, namely a Smart Card, must be inserted into a reader slot in the remote control. The location of this reader slot can vary depending on the design requirements of a particular universal remote control. Once the Card is inserted into the reader slot, the user 10 is able to experiment with various device codes until he finds the one which will operate his electronic device. Once the user locks in a particular device code, that code is transferred into the remote control's non-volatile memory and the balance of the code data on the Card is either erased or blocked from further use uslng known techniques.
The foregoing system can be used with any electronic device and/or any Internet access 15 device utilizing a remote control. The releasable readable media storage device will include code data for progr~mming the remote control and can also include additional data for controlling the t'unctions and features of the various electronic devices which are controllable by said remote control.
The foregoing features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the 20 f'ollowing more particular description of the invention. The accompanying drawings, listed hereinbelow, are useful in explaining the invention.
CA 02246496 l998-09-03 Description of Drawings:
Fig. 1 is a front view of a remote control including an internally mounted connector for receiving a releasable readable medià storage device which is inserted in a slot opening to the side of the remote control;
S Fig. 2 is a side view of the remote control of Fig. l;
Fig. 3 is a side view of a modification of the remote control of Fig. 1, wherein the connector is formed to be externally mounted on the remote control; the Smart Card is inserted in a slot opening to the top of the remote control;
Fig. 4 shows a drawing of a Smart Card used in the present invention;
Fig. SA is a schematic diagram of the Srnart Card interface as in a remote control;
Fig. SB is the schernatic diagram of Figure 5A with the addition of an infrared receiver;
Fig. 6 is a flow chart of an operation of the Smart Card of the invention;
Fig. 7 is a flow chart showing the logic implemented to permit the Smart Card and EEPROM interfaces to share common electrical connections;
Fig. 8 shows a series of steps of illustrating the concept of inputting data into an empty remote control; and Fig. 9 shows a series of steps illustrating the concept of inputting data to enhance the functionality of the remote control.
Fig. 10 shows a series of steps illustrating an electronic transaction utilizing the present 20 invention.
Oescription of the Inventior.:
The present invention discloses new and unique uses for a system including a universal remote control and a releasable readable media storage device. The releasable readable media 278713.4 - 8 -storage device and remote control of the present invention can also provide control for additional equipment including Internet accessible devices. The present in~ention also enables the releasable readable media storage device to intèract with the remote control to vary, change and control the functions of a television receiver, cable box or satellite decoder receiving signals from a service 5 operator. Importantly each user can, by using the appropriate releasable readable media storage device, readily and conveniently configure his remote control to the desired functions, features and channels he obtains from the service operator.
Figs. 1 and 2 show a remote control 11, generally patterned after so called universal remote controls of suitable known type. In addition to the standard components and circuitry, 10 remote control 11 includes a connector 12 for a releasable readable media storage device, a Smart Card 15 in the preferred embodiment, which selectively reads and writes to the remote control 11.
Connector 12 comprises a slot or port 14 and a suitable known type socket for connecting to the Smart Card 15. Slot 14 is rnolded directly into the case or body 16 of the remote control 11. Case l6 is preferably made of plastic rnaterial. In the embodiment shown, the slot 14 opens to the side of case 16. Slot or port ~4 receives a Smart Card 15 shown in Fig. 4. Smart Card 15 is approximately 3.3 x 2.1 inches in si~e.
Connector 12 can comprise a plurality of slots to accommodate or receive one or more Smart Cards 15 which are inserted in respective slots in the connector 12. However, in the preferred embodiment and also for purposes of clarity in the drawing, only one slot 14 is 20 indicated. Additional slots as needed may be formed in connector 12 parallel to slot 14 or elsewhere in the remote control 11.
The electrical and mechanical interface of Smart Card 15 with the remote control 11 conforms to, and complies with, the international standard ISO 7816 for integrated circuit cards 278713.4 - 9 -CA 02246496 l998-09-03 which have an interface Wit~l electrical contacts. Each slot 14 formed in connector 12 would have a similar interface.
It should be clearly understood that, while the electrical and mechanical interface used in Smart Card 15 is in accordance with ISO 7816 standards, in the preferred embodiment shown the 5 software protocols and data being transferred are unique to the present invention. However, in other applications, the protocol(s) and/or data transferred may correspond to a pre-existing standard format suited to that application, e.g. home banking as explained below.
Fig. 3 shows a modification llA of the remote control 11 of Figs. 1 and 2. In the embodiment of Fig. 3, the coMector l~A is formed essentially as a box externally of the case 16A
and appropriately affixed to the case 16A. In the embodiment of Fig. 3, the slot 12A opens upwardly, as in-lic"t~d by the dotted lines in the Figure, and the Smart Card 15 is inserted into the slot 14A from the top of the remote control 11. The operation of the remote control 11 and the Smart Card 15 as depicted in Fig. 3 are the same as for the embodiment of Figs. 1 and 2.
Fig. 5A shows the electronic circuitry 20 for the remote control 11 and the Smart Card 15.
The circuitry of Fig. 5A, and the operation of the circuitry are well known, hence detailed description is not believed necessary. Microprocessor 26 may be of any suitable known type. The keypad 28 (which includes the various known television TV and VCR function keys depicted in Fig. 1) enables user inputs to microprocessor 26. Referring to the lower left hand corner of Fig.
5A, the connector 12 receives the Smart Card 15 and connects via leads 23 and 24 to the remote control 15 microprocessor '6. The connector 12 also supplies power from the remote control batteries 33 to the chip on the Smart Card via connections 34 and 35. Additionally, a contact is provided within connector 12, attached to lead 36, which is used to notify the microprocessor 26 that a Smart Card 15 has been inserted, as is described in greater detail later in conjunction with CA 02246496 l998-09-03 the flowchart of Figure 6. The data in Smart Card lS selectively control or alter the functionality of the microprocessor 26 in accordance with the data programmed and stored in Smart Card 15.
Microprocessor 26 can also write to Card 15.
As will be explainec hereinbelow, the Smart Card technology of the present invention can 5 be used to enable the remote control to alter various configurable features and/or information in a remo~e control or on the controlled devices, such as a television set; and, the Smart Card can be used to add code data for different electronic devices to be controlled by a universal remote control. Figure 5B shows the electronic circuitry of a remote control (as explained above with reference to Figure 5A) which includes an infrared receiving means 37.
The flowchart of Figure 6 describes the operation of the Smart Card lS and remote control 11 circuitry of Figures SA and 5B. Initially, the microprocessor 26 is in a ~sleep," or shut down mode in order to minimi7e power consumption and conserve battery life. Insertion of the Smart Card 15 into slot 14 closes 2. contact which, via transistor 29 and capacitor 30, generates a pulse on the IRQ - (Interrupt Request) input pin 31 of the microprocessor 26. Receipt of this signal 1~ causes the microprocessor 26 to exit the previously described low power shut down state and begin normal execution. First, the microprocessor 26 inspects the status of the keypad matrix 28 in order to determine if it was "woken up" by the user pressing a key. (If a keypress was the cause of the IRQ signal, the microprocessor 26 would then proceed to execute the indicated remote control function in the normal way.) In the embodiment described in Figure 6, however, the 20 microprocessor 26 will determine that no key has been pressed, as described in block 1 of Figure 6. Initially, the first byte of data on the Smart Card 15 is read and evaluated to determine if the C'ard lS is of the correct type. If not, the microprocessor 26 returns to its idle state, as described in block 4 of Figure 6. Next, the microprocessor 26 validates the memory block header stored 2~8713.4 CA 02246496 l998-09-03 on the Smart Card lS. This header contains information indicating where in the remote control's non-volatile memory the following Smart Card data bytes are to be stored, and for what purpose.
If an invalid header is detected7 the rnicroprocessor 26 signals the user (by, for example, flashing the visible LED 32)7 and returns to the idle state7 as described in block 7 of Figure 6. Once a 5 valid block header has been found7 the balance of the data in that block on the Smart Card 15 i copied from the Smart Card lS to the RAM memory 27 of the microprocessor 26, and then from there to the designated target address within the remote control's non-volatile memory, as described in blocks 8 and 9 of Figure 6. On completion of this transfer, the microprocessor logic returns, as described in block S of Figure 6, to check for another data block contained on the 10 Smart Card lS. If one is found (as evidenced by a second valid memory block header immediately flowing the end of the first data block)7 the transfer cycle is repeated. This process continues until no further valid data blocks are found7 at which point the microprocessor 26 now checks the Card type previously acquired to determine if the Smart Card 15 currently inserted in connector 12 is the "single use" type. If so, the microprocessor 26 writes data to the memory contained on the 15 Smart Card lS in order to erase or otherwise disable future use of the Card 157 as described in blocks 10 and 11 of Figure 6. The microprocessor 26 then signals the user and returns to the idle state as described in block 7 of Figure 6. In certain applications of the present invention, it may be desirable to provide addit1onal security to the information and data stored on said Smart Card.
In connection with such embodiments of the present invention, various security and encryption 20 systems, including but not limited to a requirement that the user first activate the Smart Card through the use of a unique personal identification number ("PIN") keyed in by the user, have been proposed or implemented and are well known in the art.
278713.4 -I 2 -CA 02246496 l998-09-03 In the preferred embodiment shown in Figure SA, the Smart Card interface signals 23 and 24 are shared with those of the remote control's non-volatile memory EEPROM 27. Since the Smart Card 15 and EEPROM 27 have similar electrical interfaces, this allows common firmware code and microprocessor input/output pins to be used to communicate with both devices.
5 Accordingly, a circuit and program logic must be provided to select which device is active at which time. This is accomplished by connecting an input/output port pin 38 on the microprocessor 26 in such a manner that when it is in one state it disables the onboard EEPROM 27 via its enable/disable pin 25 while simultaneously enabling output of the clock signal 24 to the Smart Card connector via transistor 39, while in the other state it enables the onboard EEPROM 27 while 10 disabling the clock output to the Smart Card connection. The flowchart of Figure 7 describes how this is accomplished by the firmware during the process of reading data from the Smart Card lS, e.g. while performing the f'unctions shown in blocks 2, 5 and 8 of Figure 6. The same process would be performed by the firmware in order to select the Smart Card 15 as a target to write data.
A basic concept of c ne embodiment of the present invention is to provide a standardized 1~ r emote control 11 with separately available code data for operating different electronic devices.
'Various Smart Cards are made available for VCRs, for televisions, for stereos, etc. Each Smart Card 15 in the library has code data and programming to control different features, functions and equipment, such as on the television, the VCR and stereo in a user's home entertainment system.
In one embodiment. a user has a remote control 11 which is capable of controlling six 20 devices. Initially the user may acquire "device library cards," to thereby provide code data to control three of the six possible devices supported by the remote control 11. If the user subsequently acquires a digital video disc ("DVD"), he can obtain the appropriate Smart Card for controlling the DVD via the remote control 11.
2~8713.4 -I 3 -CA 02246496 l998-09-03 In the embodiment described in Fig. 8, the remote control l l is essentially empty of code data. A Smart Card is provided to enable and control the features and equipment of the individual user. In this embodimem, the remote control ll is essentially passive and is activated by a selected Smart Card 15. As depicted in Fig. 8, the user obtains and inserts the desired Smart Card 5 into slot 12 of the remote control 11. The user selects the device code that matches his equipment to load the code data and progr~mmin~ for the selected functions and equipment into the remote control l l. Once the user locks in a particular device code that code alone is transferred into the remote control l l, and the Card may be erased or disabled.
The user separately acquires Smart Cards lS to configure the remote control 11 for exactly 10 ~hose items of service, equipment, or channels he wishes to control. New items, features, functions and equipment are added at any time, up to the maximum capacity of the remote control 11.
Fig. 9 depicts a second embodiment in which the remote control 11 is preloaded with code data for basic functions and/or equipment. To enable the user to enhance his equipment, Smart 15 Cards are made available that allow purchase of additional function groups of the user's choice or option such as PIP, rnenu, surround sound adjustments, etc. Also, the remote control 11 may be pre-loaded with a universal library for the basic devices (televisions, VCRs, cable boxes) together with Cards to enable operation of individual additional equipment (DVD, satellite, etc.) as the user adds this equipment to his entertainment system.
The Smart Cards 15 can be designed to allow a single or one time transfer of code data from the Smart Card into the onboard, non-volatile memory of the remote control 11. Since a Smart Card can be configured to provide essentially a single use it may be fabricated of low-cost materials to be relatively inexpensive. A one-time use capability of the Smart Card 15 acts as a 278713.4 -1 4 -CA 02246496 l998-09-03 validity and security check to assure that only authorized devices or functions are controlled or changed by a Smart Card 15. After use, the Smart Card 15 may be discarded. In a modification of the foregoing embodiment, the Smart Card 15 is erased after entry of its input to the remote control 11, and thereafter the "blank" Smart Card 15 may be recorded and reprogrammed for 5 further use.
By use of the Smart ~ard technology of the present invention the user can conveniently add to the devices operated by his remote control l l and the capability of his cable system. For instance, during the hockey season the user can sign on to receive the desired various sports channels for a limited time period. For such use, the cable provider mails an updated Srrlart Card 10 15 to the user and the user inserts the Smart Card 15 into the remote to enable his or her system to receive the desired sport channels for that limited period.
As stated above, remote controls 11 are fabricated with features that are enabled or disabled, and various built-in features may be enabled or disabled via Smart Card 15 loaded information. For the cable/satellite service provider, this means that they can selectively 15 enable/disable various buttons or functions on the remote control 11, depending on what the individual customer has requested. Further this allows a distinct pricing of individual features such as sleep timer, tirne delay macro playback, favorite channel scan etc.
The Smart Card 15 can be updated to reflect changes in channel line up. A cable or satellite service provider whc offers direct channel access keys on its remote control could simply 20 mail an inexpensive Smart Card 15 out to all users whenever the channel line up changes. Thus, the Smart Card 15 becomes the means for delivery of upgraded subscription information, and can be used to modify a customer's service and update the remote control 11 as well.
278713.4 -1 5 -Since the remote control ll can transfer data into a Smart Card 15, Smart Cards are provided that limit access to a particular feature or television program, e.g. five pay-per view movies, monthly or special sport coverage, etc. The Smart Card 15 can, in effect, provide a credit card type of transaction. The remote control 11 is coded to send a particular control signal to the 5 receiver a pre-set number of times, and can specify the data to send. The remote control l l updates and decrements the authorized number in the Smart Card 15 each time the feature is used, and terminates when the count reaches zero. Alternatively, the remote control 11 can load the counter updated information from the Smart Card 15 into its own internal storage and operated therefrom. In this latter case, after transfer of the information, the Smart Card 15 is erased or 10 disabled, and the card can be discarded.
Another significant use for Smart Card system of the present invention is to limit access to programs of different viewer rating. For example, children in a household have a Smart Card 15 that permits them to view selected programs on the cable system, or to access limited sites on the Internet. In contrast, the parents have Smart Cards with a broader choice of TV programs 15 and/or an unrestricted access to the Internet.
The flowchart in Figure 10 depicts another type of operation of the Smart Card 15, when used in a remote control 11 with electronic circuitry such as in shown in Figure 5B, which includes an infrared receiver 37 in addition to the usual infrared transmitter. The addition of an infrared receiver 37 enables the microprocessor in the remote control 11 to engage in bi-directional 20 communication with other devices such as a cable box, DBS receiver, Internet access device or specialized terminal device (referred to hereafter as "base unit"). There are many different methods and techniques for formatting and modulating data for transmission via infrared or other medium, all of which are well known and are hence not described here. It will also be appreciated 27B713,4 - 16 -CA 02246496 l998-09-03 that although the preferred embodiment uses infrared to implement this bi-directional communication, similar results could be obtained using other transmission technologies such as radio frequency, ultrasonic etc.
The Smart Card transaction is initiated by insertion of the Card 15 in the same way as 5 previously described in conjunction with the flowchart of Figure 6. This is described in blocks 1 through 4 of Figure 10. Once the microprocessor 26 has determined that the card type is "interactive" it enters a loop in which it successively checks for user keyboard 28 input (block 5), checks the infrared receiver 37 for data from the base unit (blocks 6 and 7), verifies that the Smart ('ard 15 is still inserted in the slot 14 (block 15), and repeats this sequence until either the card 10 15 is removed (at which point it returns to the idle state) or a command message is received from the base unit. The objective of this process is to allow the user of the remote control 11 to initiate a transaction with the base unit by keying in data on the remote control (for example a menu selection, a PIN, or some other information). Once the base unit has determined that a valid transaction is to occur, it the~ transmits a command to the remote control 11 to access data on the 15 Smart Card 15, such as a cash balance, a pay-per-view movie credit, etc. This series of events are shown in the subsequent portion of the flowchart. At block 9 of Figure 10, the remote control 11 examines the response command from the base unit. If it is "transaction complete," the remote control 11 signals the user (block 8) and returns to the idle state. If the response command is not "transaction complete," the remote control 11 then determines if the response is a command to 20 read or to write Smart Card data (block 10), what location in the Smart Card's memory is to be accessed, and acts accordingly (blocks 11 and 12). If the command was a "write," the remote control 11 then signals completion to the base unit (block 14). After executing the read or write function, the remote control 11 returns to the original state (block 5) awaiting further action by 278713.4 - 17-CA 02246496 l998-09-03 the user or base unit. A typical transaction might consist of several of these sequences as, for example, the base unit first reads an account balance from the Smart Card 15, then interacts with the user to finalize a purchase, and finally debits the account balance and writes the updated value back to the Smart Card memory.
It will also be appreciated from the foregoing descriptions and the flowcharts of Figures 6 and 10, since the Smart G~rd type and function is identified in the data stored on the Card, that a single Smart Card can serve more than one purpose. Furthermore, these are not necessarily limited to only remote control applications. For example, a single Smart Card could contain data to both enable new subscription channels on a cable box or DBS recelver via that base units own Smart Card reader, and data to update the remote control functionality to enable access to that channel.
While the invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to a particular embodiment thereof it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the 1 5 invention.
Claims (21)
1. A remote control system comprising:
a) a remote control having a memory;
b) a releasable readable media storage device containing data for altering the functionality of said remote control; and c) means for downloading said data from said readable media storage device to said remote control memory.
a) a remote control having a memory;
b) a releasable readable media storage device containing data for altering the functionality of said remote control; and c) means for downloading said data from said readable media storage device to said remote control memory.
2. A remote control system comprising:
a) a remote control having a memory;
b) a releasable readable media storage device containing data for use with said remote control; and c) means for downloading said data from said readable media storage device to said remote control.
a) a remote control having a memory;
b) a releasable readable media storage device containing data for use with said remote control; and c) means for downloading said data from said readable media storage device to said remote control.
3. A remote control system comprising:
a) a remote control having a memory;
b) a releasable readable media storage device having a memory;
c) said readable media storage device memory containing at least one device code; and d) means for downloading said device code from said readable media storage device to said remote control memory.
a) a remote control having a memory;
b) a releasable readable media storage device having a memory;
c) said readable media storage device memory containing at least one device code; and d) means for downloading said device code from said readable media storage device to said remote control memory.
4. A system as m Claim 1 wherein said data for altering the functionality of said remote control includes at least one device code.
5. A system as in Claim 2 wherein said data for use with said remote control includes at least one device code.
6. A system as in Claim 1 wherein said data for altering the functionality of said remote control includes data for controlling which television channels can be accessed by said remote control.
7. A system as in Claim 1 including means for disabling said readable media storage device after said device code is downloaded into said remote control memory.
8. A system as in Claim 2 including means for disabling said readable media storage device after said device code is downloaded into said remote control memory.
9. A universal remote control system comprising:
a) a universal remote control having a slot;
b) a releasable readable media storage device having a memory including at least one device code adapted to releasably mate with said slot; and c) said remote control further comprising a means for reading and downloading said device code from said readable media storage device.
a) a universal remote control having a slot;
b) a releasable readable media storage device having a memory including at least one device code adapted to releasably mate with said slot; and c) said remote control further comprising a means for reading and downloading said device code from said readable media storage device.
10. A method for controlling the operation of a signal transmitting system wherein a central source provides signals to a number of subscriber receiver sets and wherein each set includes an associated remote control, said method comprising:
a) selectively programming a releasable readable media storage device to provide individualized features for a subscriber;
b) supplying releasable readable media storage devices to said subscriber; and c) inserting said releasable readable media storage device in said remote control.
a) selectively programming a releasable readable media storage device to provide individualized features for a subscriber;
b) supplying releasable readable media storage devices to said subscriber; and c) inserting said releasable readable media storage device in said remote control.
11. A system as in Claim 6 wherein:
a) said readable media storage device is selectively coded to provide access to certain television channels for a number of selected periods; and b) said readable media storage device includes means for decrementing the number count on said readable media storage device each time said certain selected channel is accessed.
a) said readable media storage device is selectively coded to provide access to certain television channels for a number of selected periods; and b) said readable media storage device includes means for decrementing the number count on said readable media storage device each time said certain selected channel is accessed.
12. A system as in Claim 1 wherein said remote control has multiple slots for accommodating a plurality of readable media storage devices.
13. In a signal transmitting system wherein a central source, such as a cable television or satellite system, operator, provides signals to a number of subscriber receiver sets and wherein each set includes an associated remote control, a method of controlling the operation of said receiver set comprising the steps of:
a) providing a readable media storage device for controlling the features and viewing options selected by a subscriber;
b) interfacing and connecting said readable media storage device to said remote control; and c) enabling said remote control via said readable media storage device to control the functions of the associated set.
a) providing a readable media storage device for controlling the features and viewing options selected by a subscriber;
b) interfacing and connecting said readable media storage device to said remote control; and c) enabling said remote control via said readable media storage device to control the functions of the associated set.
14. A method as in Claim 10 further including the step of changing the functions of said associated receiver set by changing said readable media storage device.
15. A method as in Claim 10 further including the step of providing readable media storage devices to subscribers to permit the viewing of selected events on selected channels.
16. A method as in Claim 10 further including the steps of:
a) Coding said readable media storage devices to selectively provide access to certain television channels for a number of selected periods;
b) changing the number count on said readable media storage device each time said selected channel is accessed until the authorized number is reached.
a) Coding said readable media storage devices to selectively provide access to certain television channels for a number of selected periods;
b) changing the number count on said readable media storage device each time said selected channel is accessed until the authorized number is reached.
17. A two-way remote control system comprising:
a) a remote control having a memory;
b) said remote control including means for receiving information from an electronic device;
c) a releasable readable media storage device adapted to interface with said remote control;
d) said readable media storage device containing data;
e) means for downloading said data from said readable media storage device into said remote control and for uploading said electronic device information from said remote control to said readable media storage device;
and f) means for transmitting data to said electronic device.
a) a remote control having a memory;
b) said remote control including means for receiving information from an electronic device;
c) a releasable readable media storage device adapted to interface with said remote control;
d) said readable media storage device containing data;
e) means for downloading said data from said readable media storage device into said remote control and for uploading said electronic device information from said remote control to said readable media storage device;
and f) means for transmitting data to said electronic device.
18. A readable media storage device for use in programming a universal remote control, comprising:
a) a nonvolatile memory;
b) a microprocessor linked to said memory; and c) electrical contacts linked to said microprocessor for allowing said readable media storage device to be releasably connected to said universal remote control wherein said memory has stored therein at least one device code.
a) a nonvolatile memory;
b) a microprocessor linked to said memory; and c) electrical contacts linked to said microprocessor for allowing said readable media storage device to be releasably connected to said universal remote control wherein said memory has stored therein at least one device code.
19. A remote control for use in connection with a readable media storage device having stored therein data, the universal remote control comprising:
a) a microprocessor;
b) a transmission circuit adapted to send control signals to an electronic device;
c) a memory connected to said microprocessor; and d) a means for allowing said readable media storage device to releasably mate with said remote control and for allowing said data to be downloaded to said memory.
a) a microprocessor;
b) a transmission circuit adapted to send control signals to an electronic device;
c) a memory connected to said microprocessor; and d) a means for allowing said readable media storage device to releasably mate with said remote control and for allowing said data to be downloaded to said memory.
20. A readable media storage device for use in programming a universal remote control, comprising:
a) a nonvolatile memory wherein said memory has stored therein at least one device code; and b) electrical contacts for allowing said readable media storage device to be releasably connected to said universal remote control.
a) a nonvolatile memory wherein said memory has stored therein at least one device code; and b) electrical contacts for allowing said readable media storage device to be releasably connected to said universal remote control.
21. A readable media storage device for use in programming a universal remote control, comprising:
a) a nonvolatile memory;
b) a microprocessor linked to said memory; and c) electrical contacts linked to said microprocessor for allowing said readable media storage device to be releasably connected to said universal remote control wherein said memory has stored therein data for altering the functionality of said remote control.
a) a nonvolatile memory;
b) a microprocessor linked to said memory; and c) electrical contacts linked to said microprocessor for allowing said readable media storage device to be releasably connected to said universal remote control wherein said memory has stored therein data for altering the functionality of said remote control.
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US08/923,373 US6223348B1 (en) | 1997-09-03 | 1997-09-03 | Universal remote control system |
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1997
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-
1998
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- 1998-09-03 CA CA002246496A patent/CA2246496A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2001
- 2001-02-28 US US09/793,816 patent/US7010805B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-02-28 US US09/796,406 patent/US6968570B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-02-28 US US09/796,407 patent/US6657679B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2001-02-28 US US09/796,405 patent/US7281262B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
2003
- 2003-09-15 US US10/662,263 patent/US7142127B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
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2005
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US20010008431A1 (en) | 2001-07-19 |
US7142127B2 (en) | 2006-11-28 |
EP0907156A3 (en) | 1999-06-02 |
US7281262B2 (en) | 2007-10-09 |
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