A module for providing power to a battery-operated device having a body in which is formed a battery compartment and a cover having one or more first elements cooperable with one or more second elements provided to the body for releasably positioning the cover over the battery compartment. The module has an energy-generating surface, an energy storage device coupled to the energy-generating surface, and a storage device cover positionable over the energy-generating surface. The storage device cover has one or more third elements cooperable with the one or more second elements provided to the body for releasably positioning the module cover over the battery compartment when the energy storage device is positioned within the battery compartment in engagement with one or more electrical contacts positioned within the battery compartment.
H01M 10/46 - Accumulators structurally combined with charging apparatus
H01M 50/247 - MountingsSecondary casings or framesRacks, modules or packsSuspension devicesShock absorbersTransport or carrying devicesHolders specially adapted for portable devices, e.g. mobile phones, computers, hand tools or pacemakers
H01M 50/271 - Lids or covers for the racks or secondary casings
H02J 50/00 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power
H02S 40/22 - Light-reflecting or light-concentrating means
2.
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR RETROFITTING BATTERY-OPERATED DEVICES
A module for providing power to a battery-operated device having a body in which is formed a battery compartment and a cover having one or more first elements cooperable with one or more second elements provided to the body for releasably positioning the cover over the battery compartment. The module has an energy-generating surface, an energy storage device coupled to the energy-generating surface, and a storage device cover positionable over the energy-generating surface. The storage device cover has one or more third elements cooperable with the one or more second elements provided to the body for releasably positioning the module cover over the battery compartment when the energy storage device is positioned within the battery compartment in engagement with one or more electrical contacts positioned within the battery compartment.
H05K 5/00 - Casings, cabinets or drawers for electric apparatus
H01M 10/46 - Accumulators structurally combined with charging apparatus
H01M 50/247 - MountingsSecondary casings or framesRacks, modules or packsSuspension devicesShock absorbersTransport or carrying devicesHolders specially adapted for portable devices, e.g. mobile phones, computers, hand tools or pacemakers
H01M 50/271 - Lids or covers for the racks or secondary casings
A speech recognition engine is provided voice data indicative of at least a brand of a target appliance. The speech recognition engine uses the voice data indicative of at least a brand of the target appliance to identify within a library of codesets at least one codeset that is cross-referenced to the brand of the target appliance. The at least one codeset so identified is then caused to be provisioned to the controlling device for use in commanding functional operations of the target appliance.
A speech recognition engine is provided voice data indicative of at least a brand of a target appliance. The speech recognition engine uses the voice data indicative of at least a brand of the target appliance to identify within a library of codesets at least one codeset that is cross-referenced to the brand of the target appliance. The at least one codeset so identified is then caused to be provisioned to the controlling device for use in commanding functional operations of the target appliance.
A non-transitory, computer readable media has instructions stored thereon which instructions, when executed by a processing device of a first smart device, cause the first smart device to receive from a smart lock device on a wireless network which includes the first smart device a communication having data indicative of a state of the smart lock device and to respond to receiving the data by causing a command that has been linked to the state of the smart lock device to be executed.
A non-transitory, computer readable media has instructions stored thereon which instructions, when executed by a processing device of a first smart device, cause the first smart device to receive from a smart lock device on a wireless network which includes the first smart device a communication having data indicative of a state of the smart lock device and to respond to receiving the data by causing a command that has been linked to the state of the smart lock device to be executed.
G07C 9/00 - Individual registration on entry or exit
H04L 12/28 - Data switching networks characterised by path configuration, e.g. LAN [Local Area Networks] or WAN [Wide Area Networks]
H04M 1/72415 - User interfaces specially adapted for cordless or mobile telephones with means for local support of applications that increase the functionality by interfacing with external accessories for remote control of appliances
H04W 4/02 - Services making use of location information
H04W 4/80 - Services using short range communication, e.g. near-field communication [NFC], radio-frequency identification [RFID] or low energy communication
7.
CONTROLLING DEVICE HAVING AN ENERGY HARVESTING FEATURE
A controlling device has at least a light-based energy harvesting system disposed within the controlling device housing. The light-based energy harvesting system is operative to supply power to at least one of a processing device and a transmitter of the controlling device. The light-based energy harvesting system includes s a substrate having a photovoltaic (PV) active area and a lens, separate from the substrate, disposed over the PV active area.
A listing of each of the plurality of appliances is used, with reference to a command and/or protocol database, to configure a software agent to exchange communications, via a one or more communication channels, with each of the plurality of appliances. An action triggering state of at least one of the plurality of appliances is associated with an action. The action is performed when it is determined that a current state of the at least one of the plurality of appliances corresponds to the action triggering state.
H04L 41/0853 - Retrieval of network configurationTracking network configuration history by actively collecting configuration information or by backing up configuration information
H04L 41/0893 - Assignment of logical groups to network elements
H04L 41/12 - Discovery or management of network topologies
H04L 67/51 - Discovery or management thereof, e.g. service location protocol [SLP] or web services
9.
SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROPAGATING A PRIMARY ALERT OF A MONITORING SYSTEM OR DEVICE
Systems, methods and apparatus are described for propagating a primary alert from a premises monitoring system or device by a home entertainment device. A premises monitoring system or device, such as a security system, smoke detector, fire detector, carbon monoxide detector, baby monitor, smart speaker, etc., emit a primary alert when a predetermined event or condition occurs associated with a monitored premises. An indication of the primary alert is received by one or more home entertainment devices, and at least one of the home entertainment devices causes a secondary alert to occur, for example, an audio notification and/or a visual notification from the at least one home entertainment device.
Methods and apparatus for performing timed functions in battery-powered, wireless electronic devices, such as sensors or control modules. Such electronic devices comprise a main processor and a co-processor. When the main processor enters a quiescent state in order to preserve battery life, one or more timed functions are transferred from the main processor to the co-processor just before the main processor enters the quiescent state. When the co-processor determines that it is time to perform the timed function, the co-processor wakes the main processor in order for the main processor to perform the timed function.
Systems, methods and apparatus are described for automatically performing home or business-based actions. A predefined geographic boundary may be defined around a home or a business. When a personal communication device inside a vehicle crosses a boundary of the predefined geographic boundary, the personal communication device sends a short range message to a point-to-point transceiver in the vehicle, and the point-to-point transceiver sends a signal directly to a controller in the home or business to automatically perform the one or more home or business-based actions.
H04W 4/021 - Services related to particular areas, e.g. point of interest [POI] services, venue services or geofences
G07C 9/00 - Individual registration on entry or exit
H04L 12/28 - Data switching networks characterised by path configuration, e.g. LAN [Local Area Networks] or WAN [Wide Area Networks]
H04W 4/02 - Services making use of location information
H04W 4/80 - Services using short range communication, e.g. near-field communication [NFC], radio-frequency identification [RFID] or low energy communication
When a device is determined to be capable of being of being paired with each of a plurality of appliances, a one of the plurality of appliances is automatically selected for an attempted pairing with the device. The one of the plurality of appliances is selected using priority information that has been associated with each of the plurality of appliances. Once the one of the plurality of appliances has been selected; the device is caused to automatically attempt to pair with the selected one of the plurality of appliances.
A motion detector that can automatically adjust a dwell time used by the motion detector to prevent unnecessary transmissions as an activity level of an area increases or decreases. The motion detector determines the activity level in the area and if the activity level is increasing, the dwell time is reduced and vice-versa.
G08B 13/19 - Actuation by interference with heat, light, or radiation of shorter wavelengthActuation by intruding sources of heat, light, or radiation of shorter wavelength using passive radiation detection systems using infrared-radiation detection systems
In response to a detected presence of an intended target appliance within a logical topography of controllable appliances identity information associated with the intended target appliance is used to automatically add to a graphical user interface of a controlling device an icon representative of the intended target appliance and to create at a Universal Control Engine a listing of communication methods for use in controlling corresponding functional operations of the intended target appliance. When the icon is later activated, the controlling device is placed into an operating state appropriate for controlling functional operations of the intended target appliance while the Universal Control Engine uses at least one of the communication methods to transmit at least one command to place the intended target appliance into a predetermined operating state.
A device may use a device discovery process to automatically determine a configuration of a home network system of the user. A device may store data representative of the determined configuration of a home network system of the user in a data repository. A device may use the data representative of the determined configuration of the home network system of the user to automatically verify a compliance by the user with a condition for receiving the targeted advertisement. A device may provide the targeted advertisement to the user when the determined configuration of the home network system of the user is determined to be in compliance with the condition for receiving the targeted advertisement.
H04L 41/082 - Configuration setting characterised by the conditions triggering a change of settings the condition being updates or upgrades of network functionality
H04L 41/0853 - Retrieval of network configurationTracking network configuration history by actively collecting configuration information or by backing up configuration information
H04L 67/1396 - Protocols specially adapted for monitoring users’ activity
16.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR A SELF ADAPTIVE, MULTI-USER PROGRAM GUIDE
A programming access device such as, for example, a cable or satellite set top box (STB), a digital video recorder (DVR), a personal computer, and/or a digital media receiver automatically optimizes an order of content choices presented in a content listing, such as a program guide display, favorite channel display, and/or a recording listing display based on the past viewing and/or recording history of an identified user.
H04N 21/422 - Input-only peripherals, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
H04N 21/462 - Content or additional data management e.g. creating a master electronic program guide from data received from the Internet and a Head-end or controlling the complexity of a video stream by scaling the resolution or bit-rate based on the client capabilities
H04N 21/466 - Learning process for intelligent management, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies
H04N 21/482 - End-user interface for program selection
17.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR APP DISCOVERY, INSTALLATION, AND USAGE
A system and method functions to make an app as installed on a smart device usable to access a service, such as a media streaming service. A presence of a counterpart to the app as installed on an appliance within a home network which includes the smart device is detected. A user credential, such as a username and password combination, that is associated with the counterpart to the app is then identified. The user credential is caused to be automatically associated with the app as installed on the smart device.
A device may use a device discovery process to automatically determine a configuration of a home network system of the user. A device may store data representative of the determined configuration of a home network system of the user in a data repository. A device may use the data representative of the determined configuration of the home network system of the user to automatically verify a compliance by the user with a condition for receiving the targeted advertisement. A device may provide the targeted advertisement to the user when the determined configuration of the home network system of the user is determined to be in compliance with the condition for receiving the targeted advertisement.
A configurable input element of a controlling device is configured by using a data representative of an over-the-top (OTT) media app determined to be installed on an OTT device and a data representative of the OTT device to identify at least one command that is required to be transmitted to cause the OTT device to launch the OTT media app. The at least one command is provisioned to the controlling device and assigned to the configurable input element. When the input element is subsequently activated, the controlling device will transmit the at least one command to cause the OTT device to launch the OTT media app.
A universal remote control (URC) is programmed to control a particular type and make of electronic consumer device using a graphical user interface. A plurality of images is displayed on the user-interface. Each image of the plurality of images is a digital photograph of an electronic consumer device or a remote control device usable to control the corresponding electronic consumer device. A user selects the digital photograph of the particular type and make of electronic consumer device or its corresponding remote control device. Codeset information associated with the selected device is transmitted to the URC such that the URC is programmed to control the selected device. If the codeset information is a codeset identifier, then it is displayed on the user interface. The user enters the codeset identifier into the URC such that the URC is programmed to control the selected device.
A browser device communicates via Wi-Fi with a central function device. The function device has information regarding all the various remote controls needed by the consumer. The function device communicates wirelessly with the browser device and in turn then operates all of the consumer's electronic devices
A first appliance receives from a second controllable appliance a command for causing the first controllable appliance to be placed into a state and, in response, determines a trust level of the second controllable appliance. When it is determined that the second controllable appliance is trustworthy, the first controllable appliance executes the command. When it is determined that the second controllable appliance is untrustworthy, the first controllable appliance ignores the command. Otherwise, the first controllable appliance enters into a state in which the first controllable appliance waits for at least a predetermined period of time for a user to confirm whether or not the first controllable appliance should be caused to execute the command.
A controlling device is automatically configured to issue a communication directly to a first controllable appliance to control a functional operation of the first controllable appliance in the event that the first controllable appliance is determined to be unresponsive to a command communication transmitted to the first controllable appliance via a digital communications link or to issue a communication to a second controllable appliance to control the functional operation of the first controllable appliance via a digital communications link in the event that first controllable appliance is determined to be responsive to a command communication transmitted to the first controllable appliance via a digital communications link.
H04N 21/422 - Input-only peripherals, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
H04N 5/765 - Interface circuits between an apparatus for recording and another apparatus
H04N 5/775 - Interface circuits between an apparatus for recording and another apparatus between a recording apparatus and a television receiver
H04N 21/41 - Structure of clientStructure of client peripherals
H04N 21/4363 - Adapting the video stream to a specific local network, e.g. a Bluetooth® network
H04N 21/442 - Monitoring of processes or resources, e.g. detecting the failure of a recording device, monitoring the downstream bandwidth, the number of times a movie has been viewed or the storage space available from the internal hard disk
H04N 21/45 - Management operations performed by the client for facilitating the reception of or the interaction with the content or administrating data related to the end-user or to the client device itself, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies or resolving scheduling conflicts
H04N 21/485 - End-user interface for client configuration
25.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IDENTIFYING AN INSTALLATION LOCATION OF A THERMOSTAT DEVICE
A heating and/or cooling equipment (HVAC) control system includes a subbase a thermostat releasably engageable with the subbase. An encoder is physically associated with the subbase. The provides information to the thermostat when the thermostat is coupled to the subbase. The information at least uniquely identifies the thermostat to a centralized HVAC system provided to control HVAC related functionalities in each of a plurality of rooms in a building.
A heating and/or cooling equipment (HVAC) control system includes a subbase a thermostat releasably engageable with the subbase. An encoder is physically associated with the subbase. The provides information to the thermostat when the thermostat is coupled to the subbase. The information at least uniquely identifies the thermostat to a centralized HVAC system provided to control HVAC related functionalities in each of a plurality of rooms in a building.
G05D 23/19 - Control of temperature characterised by the use of electric means
F24F 11/30 - Control or safety arrangements for purposes related to the operation of the system, e.g. for safety or monitoring
F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
B05B 15/02 - Arrangements or devices for cleaning discharge openings
F24D 19/10 - Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices
27.
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING NOISE SUPPRESSION TO AN INTELLIGENT PERSONAL ASSISTANT
A radio frequency connection between a far field voice detection device and a further device is used to determine a first angular direction from the far field voice detection device to the further device. The determined first angular direction is then used to emphasize, during a noise processing of a plurality of sounds received via use of a plurality of microphones of the far field voice detection device, a first one of the plurality of sounds relative to a remainder of the plurality of sounds.
G10L 25/84 - Detection of presence or absence of voice signals for discriminating voice from noise
G01S 3/02 - Direction-finders for determining the direction from which infrasonic, sonic, ultrasonic, or electromagnetic waves, or particle emission, not having a directional significance, are being received using radio waves
G10L 15/22 - Procedures used during a speech recognition process, e.g. man-machine dialog
H04R 1/40 - Arrangements for obtaining desired frequency or directional characteristics for obtaining desired directional characteristic only by combining a number of identical transducers
A sensor is disabled when it receives a signal from a control unit that the control unit has been placed into one or more particular operating modes. In response to receiving the signal, the sensor becomes disabled, thereby preventing detection and/or transmission of certain signals to the security panel. When the control unit is placed into another mode of operation, the control unit sends a signal to the sensor and, in response, the sensor is re-enabled, allowing the sensor to function normally.
A system for use in controlling operating functions of a controllable device includes a hand-held device and an intermediate device in communication with the hand-held device and the controllable device. The hand-held device is adapted to receive a gesture based input and to transmit a signal having data representative of the gesture based input. The intermediate device has programming for translating the data representative of the gesture based input in a signal received from the hand-held device into a command signal to be communicated to the controllable device wherein the command signal has a format appropriate for controlling an operating function of the controllable device that is associated with the gesture based input.
G06F 3/04883 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] using specific features provided by the input device, e.g. functions controlled by the rotation of a mouse with dual sensing arrangements, or of the nature of the input device, e.g. tap gestures based on pressure sensed by a digitiser using a touch-screen or digitiser, e.g. input of commands through traced gestures for inputting data by handwriting, e.g. gesture or text
G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
G08C 17/02 - Arrangements for transmitting signals characterised by the use of a wireless electrical link using a radio link
G08C 23/04 - Non-electric signal transmission systems, e.g. optical systems using light waves, e.g. infrared
H04L 12/28 - Data switching networks characterised by path configuration, e.g. LAN [Local Area Networks] or WAN [Wide Area Networks]
H04M 1/72406 - User interfaces specially adapted for cordless or mobile telephones with means for local support of applications that increase the functionality by software upgrading or downloading
H04M 1/72415 - User interfaces specially adapted for cordless or mobile telephones with means for local support of applications that increase the functionality by interfacing with external accessories for remote control of appliances
H04M 1/72469 - User interfaces specially adapted for cordless or mobile telephones for operating the device by selecting functions from two or more displayed items, e.g. menus or icons
H04N 21/422 - Input-only peripherals, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
H05B 47/19 - Controlling the light source by remote control via wireless transmission
A barrier alarm device for reducing the number of false alarms that may occur in a home or business security system. In one embodiment, a barrier alarm device, such as a door or window sensor, determines whether a barrier, such as a door or a window, has been opened, and determines whether a human being is inside a premises in proximity to the door or window. If a human being is inside the monitored premises when the door or window is opened, it indicates that the human being is authorized to be inside the monitored premises, and the barrier alarm device transmits a signal to a central security panel.
A controlling device receives from at least one sensor a first data and the controlling device uses the first data to identify at least one of a plurality of general object categories. The identified at least one of the plurality of general object categories to is used to select at least one of a plurality of heating, ventilation, and cooling (HVAC) profiles and the selected at least one of the plurality of HVAC profiles to control one of more HVAC elements.
F24F 5/00 - Air-conditioning systems or apparatus not covered by group or
F24F 11/62 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by the type of control or by internal processing, e.g. using fuzzy logic, adaptive control or estimation of values
F24F 11/64 - Electronic processing using pre-stored data
32.
SYSTEMS AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING AUTOMATED HEATING, COOLING AND VENTILATION CONTROL
A controlling device receives from at least one sensor a first data and the controlling device uses the first data to identify at least one of a plurality of general object categories. The identified at least one of the plurality of general object categories to is used to select at least one of a plurality of heating, ventilation, and cooling (HVAC) profiles and the selected at least one of the plurality of HVAC profiles to control one of more HVAC elements.
A method for synchronizing a first smart device with a second smart device includes causing a first setting of the second smart device to be stored in a datastore in association with a unique identifier and in response to determining a presence of the first smart device: determining that an authorization exists to synchronize the first smart device; determining that a second setting of the first smart device is to be synchronized with the first setting of the second smart device; and synchronizing the second setting of the first smart device to match the first setting of the second smart device.
A system, apparatus and method for deactivating HVAC equipment when the thermostat determines that a door or a window has been opened. The thermostat determines that a door or window is open using one or more security sensors previously installed for use with a separate security system.
A controller receives from a sensor associated with a window treatment a first data obtained during a controlled closing of the window treatment. A setpoint temperature, a current temperature within a structure, and a weather data is subsequently used to determine that the window treatment needs to be closed in order to hasten a movement of the current temperature towards the setpoint temperature. After an instruction is provided to cause the window treatment to start to close, second data is obtained from the sensor while the window treatment is being closed. The first data is compared to the second data, when the comparison indicates that an obstruction exists in a path of travel of the window treatment, the closing of the window treatment is stopped.
A controller receives from a sensor associated with a window treatment a first data obtained during a controlled closing of the window treatment. A setpoint temperature, a current temperature within a structure, and a weather data is subsequently used to determine that the window treatment needs to be closed in order to hasten a movement of the current temperature towards the setpoint temperature. After an instruction is provided to cause the window treatment to start to close, second data is obtained from the sensor while the window treatment is being closed. The first data is compared to the second data, when the comparison indicates that an obstruction exists in a path of travel of the window treatment, the closing of the window treatment is stopped.
A system includes a mobile device and a receiving device associated with a media access device. The receiving device obtains from the mobile device during a process in which the mobile device and the receiving device are paired a first identifier that uniquely identifies the mobile device. The first identifier is then associated within the receiving device to a universal advertising identifier. Thereafter, when the mobile device is determined to be in proximity to the receiving device, at least the universal advertising identifier is caused to be provided to a remote server. In this manner, the remote server can track at least a presence of a user with the media access device.
A system includes a mobile device and a receiving device associated with a media access device. The receiving device obtains from the mobile device during a process in which the mobile device and the receiving device are paired a first identifier that uniquely identifies the mobile device. The first identifier is then associated within the receiving device to a universal advertising identifier. Thereafter, when the mobile device is determined to be in proximity to the receiving device, at least the universal advertising identifier is caused to be provided to a remote server. In this manner, the remote server can track at least a presence of a user with the media access device.
H04B 5/72 - Near-field transmission systems, e.g. inductive or capacitive transmission systems specially adapted for specific purposes for local intradevice communication
H04L 67/54 - Presence management, e.g. monitoring or registration for receipt of user log-on information, or the connection status of the users
H04W 4/021 - Services related to particular areas, e.g. point of interest [POI] services, venue services or geofences
H04W 4/80 - Services using short range communication, e.g. near-field communication [NFC], radio-frequency identification [RFID] or low energy communication
A person-detection device that automatically configures itself as a motion sensor or an occupancy sensor upon receiving a command from a home security panel or home automation hub.
In response to a detected presence of an intended target appliance within a logical topography of controllable appliances identity information associated with the intended target appliance is used to automatically add to a graphical user interface of a controlling device an icon representative of the intended target appliance and to create at a Universal Control Engine a listing of communication methods for use in controlling corresponding functional operations of the intended target appliance. When the icon is later activated, the controlling device is placed into an operating state appropriate for controlling functional operations of the intended target appliance while the Universal Control Engine uses at least one of the communication methods to transmit at least one command to place the intended target appliance into a predetermined operating state.
An apparatus includes a head portion, an undercarriage portion, and a telescopic portion configured to adjustably move into a plurality of different lengths. A first end of the head portion is rotatably attached to a first end of the undercarriage portion and a second end of the undercarriage portion is rotatably attached to a first end of the telescopic portion. A second end of the head portion is rotatably attached to a second end of the telescopic portion. In a first position, the telescopic portion has a first length of the plurality of different lengths and the head portion and the undercarriage portion form a first angle. In a second position, the telescopic portion has a second length of the plurality of different lengths and the head portion and the undercarriage portion form a second angle different from the first angle.
F16M 13/02 - Other supports for positioning apparatus or articlesMeans for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles for supporting on, or attaching to, an object, e.g. tree, gate, window-frame, cycle
A47B 97/00 - Furniture or accessories for furniture, not provided for in other groups of this subclass
43.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RECOMMENDING HOME APPLIANCES TO A CONSUMER
A system functions to recommend equipment expansions, additions and/or substitutions; interconnections; supplemental capabilities; features; etc. based upon a knowledge of a consumer's existing audio and/or visual system configuration.
G06Q 30/02 - MarketingPrice estimation or determinationFundraising
G06Q 30/0282 - Rating or review of business operators or products
G06Q 50/00 - Information and communication technology [ICT] specially adapted for implementation of business processes of specific business sectors, e.g. utilities or tourism
Embodiments of a central security monitoring device for reducing incidences of false alarms in a security system is disclosed. In one embodiment, a method is described, comprising receiving an alarm signal from an occupancy sensor via a receiver, receiving a second alarm signal from a barrier alarm device after receiving the alarm signal, determining, by a processor, an elapsed time from when the alarm signal from the occupancy sensor was received to when the second alarm signal from the barrier alarm device was received, transmitting, by the processor via a network interface, a message to a personal communication device indicating that a false alarm has occurred when the elapsed time is less than the predetermined time.
G08B 29/18 - Prevention or correction of operating errors
G08B 3/10 - Audible signalling systemsAudible personal calling systems using electric transmissionAudible signalling systemsAudible personal calling systems using electromagnetic transmission
G08B 5/36 - Visible signalling systems, e.g. personal calling systems, remote indication of seats occupied using electric transmissionVisible signalling systems, e.g. personal calling systems, remote indication of seats occupied using electromagnetic transmission using visible light sources
G08B 13/08 - Mechanical actuation by opening, e.g. of door, of window, of drawer, of shutter, of curtain, of blind
G08B 25/00 - Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems
Axis orientation compensation is provided in a system in which movement of a controlling device is used to control navigational functions of a target appliance by determining which one of plural sides of the controlling device is an active side of the controlling device and by causing navigational functions of the target appliance made relative to at least one of an X, Y, and Z axis of the target appliance to be dynamically aligned with movements of the controlling device made relative to at least one of an A, B, and C axis of the controlling device as a function of the one of the plural sides of the controlling device that is determined to be the active side of the controlling device.
G06F 3/0346 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the userAccessories therefor with detection of the device orientation or free movement in a 3D space, e.g. 3D mice, 6-DOF [six degrees of freedom] pointers using gyroscopes, accelerometers or tilt-sensors
G08C 17/00 - Arrangements for transmitting signals characterised by the use of a wireless electrical link
H01H 35/02 - Switches operated by change of position, inclination, or orientation of the switch itself in relation to gravitational field
H04N 21/422 - Input-only peripherals, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
47.
System and method for realizing utility cost savings
A pre-defined cost savings benefit is provided to a guest as a function of an amount of a calculated cost savings that can be attributed to the guest during a period of occupancy by the guest. Utility cost saving are tracked in real-time during the period of guest occupancy and the guest will be able to use a device to visualize the utility cost savings that are being realized during this period. By being able to view the utility cost savings being realized in real-time, the guest will be incentivized to directly engage in a utility cost savings effort for the personal benefit of the guest which will, in turn, benefit the hotel.
A controlling device has a configurable key. An insert is provided to the configurable key and includes an indicium representative of a media content provider. An image of the indicium or an image of a QR code associated with the indicium is used to assign one or more commands to the configurable key. The one or more commands are used to cause a controllable device to tune to a channel on which the media content provider is being broadcast, to invoke an app associated with the media content provider, to access a website associated with the media content provider, and the like.
H04N 21/422 - Input-only peripherals, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
G06F 1/16 - Constructional details or arrangements
G06F 3/02 - Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
G06F 3/023 - Arrangements for converting discrete items of information into a coded form, e.g. arrangements for interpreting keyboard generated codes as alphanumeric codes, operand codes or instruction codes
G06K 7/14 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation using light without selection of wavelength, e.g. sensing reflected white light
G08C 17/00 - Arrangements for transmitting signals characterised by the use of a wireless electrical link
H04N 21/41 - Structure of clientStructure of client peripherals
H04N 21/438 - Interfacing the downstream path of the transmission network originating from a server, e.g. retrieving encoded video stream packets from an IP network
49.
APPARATUS, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROMOTING APPS TO SMART DEVICES
Apparatus, system and method for promoting media apps to an end user of a smart device. The smart device gathers information of apps that have been installed into the smart device and provides this information to a remote server. The remote server compares the information sent by the smart device to an identification of promoted apps received from a remote source to identify apps that are not installed in the smart device that are included in the identification of promoted apps. The remote server then notifies the smart device of which apps in the identification of promoted apps are not installed into the smart device, so that a user of the smart device may choose to have the missing app installed.
A current geographical location of a portable device is used to facilitate selection of channel lineup that is appropriate for a Multi-System Operator (MSO) provider and the current geographical location of the portable device. A program guide GUI of the portable device is then configured using the selected channel lineup. The configured GUI is displayable to a user of the portable device whereupon the configured GUI is available for use in commanding tuning operations of a set-top box.
H04N 21/438 - Interfacing the downstream path of the transmission network originating from a server, e.g. retrieving encoded video stream packets from an IP network
H04N 21/41 - Structure of clientStructure of client peripherals
H04N 21/414 - Specialised client platforms, e.g. receiver in car or embedded in a mobile appliance
H04N 21/442 - Monitoring of processes or resources, e.g. detecting the failure of a recording device, monitoring the downstream bandwidth, the number of times a movie has been viewed or the storage space available from the internal hard disk
H04N 21/45 - Management operations performed by the client for facilitating the reception of or the interaction with the content or administrating data related to the end-user or to the client device itself, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies or resolving scheduling conflicts
H04N 21/454 - Content filtering, e.g. blocking advertisements
H04N 21/482 - End-user interface for program selection
51.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR USING A MULTICAST SERVICE TO CONFIGURE A CONTROLLING DEVICE
A signature comprised of a plurality of data blocks formatted in accordance with a multicast communications protocol is received from a target appliance. When it is determined that one or more of the plurality of data blocks has been populated with user data, a representation of at least a portion of signature is provided to an analytics engine for processing whereby the user data within the one or more of the plurality of data blocks is replaced with a predicted, original data. The predicted, original data is then usable to provision a controlling device with a command code set for use in communicating commands to the target appliance.
G16Y 40/35 - Management of things, i.e. controlling in accordance with a policy or in order to achieve specified objectives
H04L 61/4511 - Network directoriesName-to-address mapping using standardised directoriesNetwork directoriesName-to-address mapping using standardised directory access protocols using domain name system [DNS]
A speech recognition engine is provided voice data indicative of at least a brand of a target appliance. The speech recognition engine uses the voice data indicative of at least a brand of the target appliance to identify within a library of codesets at least one codeset that is cross-referenced to the brand of the target appliance. The at least one codeset so identified is then caused to be provisioned to the controlling device for use in commanding functional operations of the target appliance.
G10L 15/22 - Procedures used during a speech recognition process, e.g. man-machine dialog
G08C 17/00 - Arrangements for transmitting signals characterised by the use of a wireless electrical link
G10L 15/02 - Feature extraction for speech recognitionSelection of recognition unit
H04N 21/41 - Structure of clientStructure of client peripherals
H04N 21/422 - Input-only peripherals, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
H04N 21/435 - Processing of additional data, e.g. decrypting of additional data or reconstructing software from modules extracted from the transport stream
H04N 21/436 - Interfacing a local distribution network, e.g. communicating with another STB or inside the home
A method for synchronizing time within a local, networked system including a first device and a least one second device. The first device uses a short-wavelength, ultra-high frequency radio communications protocol to advertise a time that is being maintained by a first clock of the first device. The second device uses the received time to discipline a second clock of the second device such that the second clock of the second device is generally synchronized to the first clock of the first device.
A smart thermostat for controlling the ambient air temperature in a first area when the smart thermostat is located in a second area. One or more desired setpoint temperatures are changed automatically by the smart thermostat based on one or more setpoint modification factors, such as the time of day, current season, location, orientation and present and future weather conditions.
An electronic barrier alarm sensor having a flexible sensing device. The sensor may be mounted to a door, door frame, window, window frame, object or wall to detect when a door or window has been opened, that an object has been moved or to detect the presence of an animal. The flexible sensing device comprises one or more attributes that change as the flexible sensing device is bent, or unbent, by operation of a door, window, removal of an object, or the presence of an animal. Based on the changes, the electronic barrier alarm sensor may transmit an alarm signal when one or more measured values of the one or more attributes changes by more than one or more predetermined amounts.
G08B 13/08 - Mechanical actuation by opening, e.g. of door, of window, of drawer, of shutter, of curtain, of blind
G01D 5/16 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means influencing the magnitude of a current or voltage by varying resistance
G01D 5/20 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means influencing the magnitude of a current or voltage by varying inductance, e.g. by a movable armature
G01D 5/24 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means influencing the magnitude of a current or voltage by varying capacitance
A system, method and apparatus for automatically enrolling wireless end devices with a base station and/or other device or system. A wireless end device is scanned using a smart phone's native capabilities, without the use of a downloadable, third party app. Information from the scan indicates the name of the base station to which enrollment is desired. The base station name is used in an mDNS request in order to determine a local IP address of the base station. When the IP address is returned to the local, wireless communication device, the wireless communication device sends an HTTP GET message comprising attributes of the end device. The base station receives the HTTP GET message and enrolls the wireless end device with the base station. The base station my further alert another base station, system, server or other entity of the enrollment. The base station may then send the local, wireless communication device a web page indicating that the wireless end device was successfully enrolled with the base station and/or other base station, system, server or entity.
H04L 61/4511 - Network directoriesName-to-address mapping using standardised directoriesNetwork directoriesName-to-address mapping using standardised directory access protocols using domain name system [DNS]
H04L 67/02 - Protocols based on web technology, e.g. hypertext transfer protocol [HTTP]
H04W 8/22 - Processing or transfer of terminal data, e.g. status or physical capabilities
H04W 60/00 - Affiliation to network, e.g. registrationTerminating affiliation with the network, e.g. de-registration
H04L 12/28 - Data switching networks characterised by path configuration, e.g. LAN [Local Area Networks] or WAN [Wide Area Networks]
A control device for authorizing access and modifications to information and settings of the control device. When a user wishes to make a modification to settings of the control device, the user sends a request to access the settings with a user device. The user is authorized to access the settings when the user physically interacts with the control device within a predetermined time before or after sending the request to access the settings.
A method and apparatus is described for providing energy system status information. A status indication device may be mounted near an entry door for determining when an individual is about to leave an area. When the status indication device determines that an individual is about to leave an area, it displays an energy status to the individual, so that the individual can decide whether to place energy-consuming devices in a conservation mode of operation.
G05B 15/02 - Systems controlled by a computer electric
H02J 13/00 - Circuit arrangements for providing remote indication of network conditions, e.g. an instantaneous record of the open or closed condition of each circuitbreaker in the networkCircuit arrangements for providing remote control of switching means in a power distribution network, e.g. switching in and out of current consumers by using a pulse code signal carried by the network
59.
APPARATUS, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DIRECTING VOICE INPUT IN A CONTROLLING DEVICE
Apparatus, system and method for using a controlling device for receiving voice input to control the operation of voice controlled smart appliances and, more particularly, to a controlling device for recognizing voice commands and for use in routing a signal, based on voice commands from the user, to two or more voice controlled smart appliances from different consumer brand names.
A method and apparatus for determining a status of a deadbolt assembly. A deadbolt status assembly uses mechanical, ultrasonic, infrared, inductance, and/or capacitance to detect when a deadbolt assembly is in a locked state, where a bolt of the deadbolt assembly is fully extended, or in an unlocked state, where the bolt is fully retracted.
Methods and apparatus are described for automatically disarming a security system. For example, a method for automatically disarming a security system is described, comprising determining, by a personal communication device, when a person is in proximity to the person's home or business and, in response to determining that the person is in proximity to the person's home or business, transmitting a disarm command by the personal communication device to a security controller for the security controller to disarm the security system.
G08B 25/00 - Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems
G08B 25/08 - Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems characterised by the transmission medium using communication transmission lines
G08B 25/10 - Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems characterised by the transmission medium using wireless transmission systems
62.
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETECTING IMMINENT USE OF AN ELECTRONIC DEVICE
An apparatus and method for determining imminent use of an electronic device. An infrared sensor is used to determine when a human hand is approaching the electronic device and breaches an activation distance. The infrared sensor is partially covered by a mask having a mask opening formed therethrough so that only a portion of ambient light reaches the infrared sensor. When the infrared sensor comprises two or more sensing elements, each sensing element is completely masked while one sensing element is partially masked, thereby allowing only one sensing element to receive ambient light. Signals from the infrared sensor are processed to determine when a human hand is approaching the electronic device and breaches the activation distance. When detected, the electronic device self-illuminates in order to make it easier for a person to interact with the electronic device.
A system and method for using a controllable appliance to report an inoperable state of a controlling device. The appliance is caused to repeatedly determine, at a first predetermined timed interval, if a wireless notification signal, repeatedly transmitted by the controlling device at a second predetermined timed interval, has been received from the controlling device. When the wireless notification signal has not been received from the controlling device within the first predetermined timed interval, the appliance is caused to issue a status notification that the controlling device is in an inoperable state.
H04N 21/442 - Monitoring of processes or resources, e.g. detecting the failure of a recording device, monitoring the downstream bandwidth, the number of times a movie has been viewed or the storage space available from the internal hard disk
H04N 21/214 - Specialised server platform, e.g. server located in an airplane, hotel or hospital
H04N 21/422 - Input-only peripherals, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
H04N 21/4363 - Adapting the video stream to a specific local network, e.g. a Bluetooth® network
H04N 21/443 - OS processes, e.g. booting an STB, implementing a Java virtual machine in an STB or power management in an STB
Sensing interfaces associated with a home entertainment system are used to automate a system response to events which occur in a viewing area associated with the home entertainment system. Data derived from such sensing interfaces may also be used to enhance the response readiness of one or more system components. Still further, user presence data derived from such sensing interfaces may be used to capture and report user viewing habits and/or preferences.
H04N 21/442 - Monitoring of processes or resources, e.g. detecting the failure of a recording device, monitoring the downstream bandwidth, the number of times a movie has been viewed or the storage space available from the internal hard disk
G06Q 30/0201 - Market modellingMarket analysisCollecting market data
H04N 21/422 - Input-only peripherals, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
H04N 21/433 - Content storage operation, e.g. storage operation in response to a pause request or caching operations
A hand-held device, such as a remote control, is provided for operation of a consumer appliance and is equipped with one or more biometric sensors to capture and report on the health condition of a user of the hand-held device. The data captured by such a hand-held device may be evaluated locally in the hand-held device itself or may be conveyed to a target consumer appliance either for local evaluation by that consumer appliance or for onward transmission to a central off-site monitoring service.
A61B 5/00 - Measuring for diagnostic purposes Identification of persons
A61B 5/0205 - Simultaneously evaluating both cardiovascular conditions and different types of body conditions, e.g. heart and respiratory condition
A61B 5/11 - Measuring movement of the entire body or parts thereof, e.g. head or hand tremor or mobility of a limb
H04N 21/422 - Input-only peripherals, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
H04N 21/442 - Monitoring of processes or resources, e.g. detecting the failure of a recording device, monitoring the downstream bandwidth, the number of times a movie has been viewed or the storage space available from the internal hard disk
A system and method functions to make an app as installed on a smart device usable to access a service, such as a media streaming service. A presence of a counterpart to the app as installed on an appliance within a home network which includes the smart device is detected. A user credential, such as a username and password combination, that is associated with the counterpart to the app is then identified. The user credential is caused to be automatically associated with the app as installed on the smart device.
A configurable input element of a controlling device is configured by using a data representative of an over-the-top (OTT) media app determined to be installed on an OTT device and a data representative of the OTT device to identify at least one command that is required to be transmitted to cause the OTT device to launch the OTT media app. The at least one command is provisioned to the controlling device and assigned to the configurable input element. When the input element is subsequently activated, the controlling device will transmit the at least one command to cause the OTT device to launch the OTT media app.
Aspects of the present invention are directed towards a more natural way to interact with an intelligent personal assistant. An intelligent personal assistant comprises a camera that provides images of an area surrounding the assistant. The assistant monitors images provided by the camera to determine when a user is addressing the assistant. When voice input is received after determining that a user is addressing the assistant, the assistant understands that the voice input is intended for the assistant, and acts on the voice input to respond to the user.
G06N 3/008 - Artificial life, i.e. computing arrangements simulating life based on physical entities controlled by simulated intelligence so as to replicate intelligent life forms, e.g. based on robots replicating pets or humans in their appearance or behaviour
Methods and apparatus for performing timed functions in battery-powered, wireless electronic devices, such as sensors or control modules. Such electronic devices comprise a main processor and a co-processor. When the main processor enters a quiescent state in order to preserve battery life, one or more timed functions are transferred from the main processor to the co-processor just before the main processor enters the quiescent state. When the co-processor determines that it is time to perform the timed function, the co-processor wakes the main processor in order for the main processor to perform the timed function.
A barrier alarm device for reducing the number of false alarms that may occur in a home or business security system. In one embodiment, a barrier alarm device, such as a door or window sensor, determines whether a barrier, such as a door or a window, has been opened, and determines whether a human being is inside a premises in proximity to the door or window. If a human being is inside the monitored premises when the door or window is opened, it indicates that the human being is authorized to be inside the monitored premises, and the barrier alarm device transmits a timed alarm signal to a central security panel, causing a security response to be generated by the central security panel if a predetermined time period elapses without a user canceling the security response.
B60R 25/34 - Detection related to theft or to other events relevant to anti-theft systems of conditions of vehicle components, e.g. of windows, door locks or gear selectors
G08B 13/08 - Mechanical actuation by opening, e.g. of door, of window, of drawer, of shutter, of curtain, of blind
G08B 13/16 - Actuation by interference with mechanical vibrations in air or other fluid
G08B 21/04 - Alarms for ensuring the safety of persons responsive to non-activity, e.g. of elderly persons
G08B 21/22 - Status alarms responsive to presence or absence of persons
G08B 25/00 - Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems
G08B 25/14 - Central alarm receiver or annunciator arrangements
G08B 29/18 - Prevention or correction of operating errors
A configurable, wearable electronic device is shown and described. The configurable, wearable electronic device may be configured to be worn around a user's neck via a lanyard and a special longitudinal insert of the configurable having an attached tether, worn on a user's clothing via a conforming cradle assembly or worn on a user's wrist by removing one or more longitudinal inserts of the configurable, wearable electronic device and connecting a wrist strap having two longitudinal inserts that fit into a respective channel of the configurable, wearable electronic device.
A controlling device has at least a light-based energy harvesting system disposed within the controlling device housing. The light-based energy harvesting system is operative to supply power to at least one of a processing device and a transmitter of the controlling device. The light-based energy harvesting system includes s a substrate having a photovoltaic (PV) active area and a lens, separate from the substrate, disposed over the PV active area.
A system, method and apparatus for configuring a person detection sensor. The person detection sensor may limit its transmissions in accordance with a pre-configured dwell time. The person detection sensor may receive a new dwell time from a personal communication device. When the new dwell time is received, it is stored in memory and is then used to regulate the number of transmissions of the person detection sensor in accordance with the new dwell time.
G06F 1/3228 - Monitoring task completion, e.g. by use of idle timers, stop commands or wait commands
G06F 1/3231 - Monitoring the presence, absence or movement of users
G08B 13/196 - Actuation by interference with heat, light, or radiation of shorter wavelengthActuation by intruding sources of heat, light, or radiation of shorter wavelength using passive radiation detection systems using image scanning and comparing systems using television cameras
74.
SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR ENHANCED REMOTE CONTROL FUNCTIONALITY
A hand-held device having a touch sensitive surface uses a relative distance from an origin location to each of a plurality of touch zones of the touch sensitive surface activated by a user to select a one of the plurality of touch zones as being intended for activation by the user.
G08C 17/02 - Arrangements for transmitting signals characterised by the use of a wireless electrical link using a radio link
G06F 3/02 - Input arrangements using manually operated switches, e.g. using keyboards or dials
G06F 3/0346 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the userAccessories therefor with detection of the device orientation or free movement in a 3D space, e.g. 3D mice, 6-DOF [six degrees of freedom] pointers using gyroscopes, accelerometers or tilt-sensors
G06F 3/0354 - Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the userAccessories therefor with detection of 2D relative movements between the device, or an operating part thereof, and a plane or surface, e.g. 2D mice, trackballs, pens or pucks
G06F 3/038 - Control and interface arrangements therefor, e.g. drivers or device-embedded control circuitry
A system, method and apparatus for monitoring a barrier. The barrier sensor refrains from transmitting an alarm signal to a receiver when the barrier sensor determines that the barrier has been placed into an open position and that a human being is inside the premises in proximity to the human detection device. Further, the barrier sensor transmits an alarm signal to a receiver when the barrier sensor determines that the barrier has been moved from the open position and that a human being is not inside the premises in proximity to the barrier.
A programming access device such as, for example, a cable or satellite set top box (STB), a digital video recorder (DVR), a personal computer, and/or a digital media receiver automatically optimizes an order of content choices presented in a content listing, such as a program guide display, favorite channel display, and/or a recording listing display based on the past viewing and/or recording history of an identified user.
H04N 21/422 - Input-only peripherals, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
H04N 21/462 - Content or additional data management e.g. creating a master electronic program guide from data received from the Internet and a Head-end or controlling the complexity of a video stream by scaling the resolution or bit-rate based on the client capabilities
H04N 21/466 - Learning process for intelligent management, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies
H04N 21/482 - End-user interface for program selection
G11B 27/00 - EditingIndexingAddressingTiming or synchronisingMonitoringMeasuring tape travel
77.
SYSTEMS, METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR INTERACTING WITH A SECURITY SYSTEM USING A TELEVISION REMOTE CONTROL
A method and apparatus is described for interacting with a security system using a television remote control. Commands sent by the remote control are received by an auxiliary interface device, which then provides the commands to a security system controller either directly, via a local-area network, or via a wide-area network and server. Status and acknowledgement messages are transmitted from the security system controller to the auxiliary device, whereupon they are provided to and displayed by a television in the form of a security dashboard.
G06V 20/52 - Surveillance or monitoring of activities, e.g. for recognising suspicious objects
G08B 25/00 - Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems
G08B 25/14 - Central alarm receiver or annunciator arrangements
H04L 12/28 - Data switching networks characterised by path configuration, e.g. LAN [Local Area Networks] or WAN [Wide Area Networks]
H04N 7/18 - Closed-circuit television [CCTV] systems, i.e. systems in which the video signal is not broadcast
H04N 21/238 - Interfacing the downstream path of the transmission network, e.g. adapting the transmission rate of a video stream to network bandwidthProcessing of multiplex streams
H04N 21/41 - Structure of clientStructure of client peripherals
H04N 21/431 - Generation of visual interfacesContent or additional data rendering
H04N 21/436 - Interfacing a local distribution network, e.g. communicating with another STB or inside the home
H04N 21/45 - Management operations performed by the client for facilitating the reception of or the interaction with the content or administrating data related to the end-user or to the client device itself, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies or resolving scheduling conflicts
H04N 21/478 - Supplemental services, e.g. displaying phone caller identification or shopping application
78.
THERMOSTAT FOR CONVEYING EXPECTED THERMAL RESPONSES TO USERS
A method and apparatus for summarizing and conveying expected thermal responses is described. Expected thermal responses of a room or an entire structure are calculated based on thermostat setpoints. The expected thermal responses are summarized into an expected thermal response visualization and displayed to a user for easy understanding of current, and future, temperature expectations before or as a room or entire structure is heated or cooled.
In one embodiment, a method conducted by a movable barrier gateway device is disclosed for controlling a movable barrier, comprising receiving, by a communication interface, a remote command from a remote control device to move the movable barrier, the remote command sent over a network, delaying transmission of a signal to a movable barrier controller to move the movable barrier, by a processor, for a predetermined time period after the remote command is received, detecting movement of the movable barrier within the predetermined time period by a barrier movement detector, and ignoring the remote command by the processor in response to detecting movement of the movable barrier within the predetermined time period.
Aspects of the present invention are directed towards identifying users in a room by an intelligent personal assistant for automatic control of certain devices controlled by the assistant. The assistant may have a retractable, reflector that is used to identify persons in the vicinity of the assistant when the retractable, reflector is in an extended position. The retractable, reflector may additionally be stowed inside the assistant to stop processing visual information in the vicinity of the assistant.
A controlling device has at least a light-based energy harvesting system disposed within the controlling device housing. The light-based energy harvesting system is operative to supply power to at least one of a processing device and a transmitter of the controlling device. The light-based energy harvesting system includes s a substrate having a photovoltaic (PV) active area and a lens, separate from the substrate, disposed over the PV active area.
A device may use a device discovery process to automatically determine a configuration of a home network system of the user. A device may store data representative of the determined configuration of a home network system of the user in a data repository. A device may use the data representative of the determined configuration of the home network system of the user to automatically verify a compliance by the user with a condition for receiving the targeted advertisement. A device may provide the targeted advertisement to the user when the determined configuration of the home network system of the user is determined to be in compliance with the condition for receiving the targeted advertisement.
A system functions to recommend consumer electronic device expansions, additions and/or substitutions; interconnections; supplemental capabilities; features; etc. to a consumer and/or a retailer based upon a knowledge of a consumer's existing audio and/or visual system configuration.
A browser device communicates via Wi-Fi with a central function device. The function device has information regarding all the various remote controls needed by the consumer. The function device communicates wirelessly with the browser device and in turn then operates all of the consumer's electronic devices.
A listing of each of the plurality of appliances is used, with reference to a command and/or protoctol database, to configure a software agent to exchange communications, via a one or more communication channels, with each of the plurality of appliances. An action triggering state of at least one of the plurality of appliances is associated with an action. The action is performed when it is determined that a current state of the at least one of the plurality of appliances corresponds to the action triggering state.
H04L 41/0853 - Retrieval of network configurationTracking network configuration history by actively collecting configuration information or by backing up configuration information
H04L 41/0893 - Assignment of logical groups to network elements
H04L 41/12 - Discovery or management of network topologies
H04L 67/51 - Discovery or management thereof, e.g. service location protocol [SLP] or web services
86.
System and method for determining the location and/or relative environment of a controlling device
A radio frequency connection between a controlling device and a one of a plurality of controllable appliances in an environment is used to determine when the controlling device is pointing more towards the one of the plurality of controllable appliances relative to remaining ones of the plurality of controllable appliances. When it is determined that the controlling device is pointing more towards the one of the plurality of controllable appliances relative to remaining ones of the plurality of controllable appliances, the controlling device automatically makes active a command codeset usable to transmit commands to command functional operations of the one of the plurality of controllable appliances.
A first appliance receives from a second controllable appliance a command for causing the first controllable appliance to be placed into a state and, in response, determines a trust level of the second controllable appliance. When it is determined that the second controllable appliance is trustworthy, the first controllable appliance executes the command. When it is determined that the second controllable appliance is untrustworthy, the first controllable appliance ignores the command. Otherwise, the first controllable appliance enters into a state in which the first controllable appliance waits for at least a predetermined period of time for a user to confirm whether or not the first controllable appliance should be caused to execute the command.
A system for use in controlling operating functions of a controllable device includes a hand-held device and an intermediate device in communication with the hand-held device and the controllable device. The hand-held device is adapted to receive a gesture based input and to transmit a signal having data representative of the gesture based input. The intermediate device has programming for translating the data representative of the gesture based input in a signal received from the hand-held device into a command signal to be communicated to the controllable device wherein the command signal has a format appropriate for controlling an operating function of the controllable device that is associated with the gesture based input.
G06F 3/048 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI]
G06F 3/01 - Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
G06F 3/04883 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] using specific features provided by the input device, e.g. functions controlled by the rotation of a mouse with dual sensing arrangements, or of the nature of the input device, e.g. tap gestures based on pressure sensed by a digitiser using a touch-screen or digitiser, e.g. input of commands through traced gestures for inputting data by handwriting, e.g. gesture or text
G08C 17/02 - Arrangements for transmitting signals characterised by the use of a wireless electrical link using a radio link
G08C 23/04 - Non-electric signal transmission systems, e.g. optical systems using light waves, e.g. infrared
H04L 12/28 - Data switching networks characterised by path configuration, e.g. LAN [Local Area Networks] or WAN [Wide Area Networks]
H04M 1/72415 - User interfaces specially adapted for cordless or mobile telephones with means for local support of applications that increase the functionality by interfacing with external accessories for remote control of appliances
H04N 21/422 - Input-only peripherals, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
H05B 47/19 - Controlling the light source by remote control via wireless transmission
H04M 1/72406 - User interfaces specially adapted for cordless or mobile telephones with means for local support of applications that increase the functionality by software upgrading or downloading
H04M 1/72469 - User interfaces specially adapted for cordless or mobile telephones for operating the device by selecting functions from two or more displayed items, e.g. menus or icons
89.
Method and apparatus for providing noise suppression to an intelligent personal assistant
A radio frequency connection between a far field voice detection device and a further device is used to determine a first angular direction from the far field voice detection device to the further device. The determined first angular direction is then used to emphasize, during a noise processing of a plurality of sounds received via use of a plurality of microphones of the far field voice detection device, a first one of the plurality of sounds relative to a remainder of the plurality of sounds.
G10L 25/84 - Detection of presence or absence of voice signals for discriminating voice from noise
G01S 3/02 - Direction-finders for determining the direction from which infrasonic, sonic, ultrasonic, or electromagnetic waves, or particle emission, not having a directional significance, are being received using radio waves
G10L 15/22 - Procedures used during a speech recognition process, e.g. man-machine dialog
H04R 1/40 - Arrangements for obtaining desired frequency or directional characteristics for obtaining desired directional characteristic only by combining a number of identical transducers
90.
METHOD AND DEVICE FOR DIRECT COMMUNICATION WITH THERMOSTAT THAT IS NOT IN COMMUNICATION WITH LAN
A system, method and apparatus for remote control of a thermostat by a network-based server, when the thermostat is not connected to a local or wide-area network. A network-based server calculates a modified temperature profile for a thermostat based on a utility's time-of-use pricing and/or weather forecasts. After the server has calculated the modified temperature profile, it is provided to a mobile device via a wide-area network, and the mobile device provides the modified temperature profile directly to the thermostat when the mobile device is within range of the thermostat.
G05B 19/042 - Programme control other than numerical control, i.e. in sequence controllers or logic controllers using digital processors
F24F 11/54 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication using one central controller connected to several sub-controllers
F24F 11/58 - Remote control using Internet communication
F24F 11/64 - Electronic processing using pre-stored data
F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode
Systems, methods and apparatus are described to selectively monitor a portion of a premises by a security system. A security system may contain a central security monitoring device in communication with a plurality of security sensors, and central security monitoring device may receive a command to actively monitor a first portion of a premises monitored by the security system, and in response to receiving the command, cause one or more security alerts to occur when an alarm signal is received from a security sensor located in the first portion of the premises, while ignoring alarm signals received from security sensors located in other portions of the premises.
A codeset having function-code combinations is provisioned on a controlling device to control functions of an intended target device. Input is provided to the controlling device which designates a function to be controlled on the intended target device. From a plurality of codes that are each associated with the designated function in a database stored in a memory of the controlling device a first code that is determined to be valid for use in controlling the designated function on the intended target device is selected. When the codeset is then provisioned on the controlling device, the provisioned codeset includes as a function-code combination thereof the designated function and the first code.
A universal remote control (URC) is programmed to control a particular type and make of electronic consumer device using a graphical user interface. A plurality of images is displayed on the user-interface. Each image of the plurality of images is a digital photograph of an electronic consumer device or a remote control device usable to control the corresponding electronic consumer device. A user selects the digital photograph of the particular type and make of electronic consumer device or its corresponding remote control device. Codeset information associated with the selected device is transmitted to the URC such that the URC is programmed to control the selected device. If the codeset information is a codeset identifier, then it is displayed on the user interface. The user enters the codeset identifier into the URC such that the URC is programmed to control the selected device.
A system and method for enabling set up of a controlling device capable of controlling a plurality of appliances provides an interactive instruction set and associated programming which is downloadable to a controllable appliance having an associated display, such as an Internet enabled television. The programming is accessible by the controllable appliance and is configured to appropriately display interactive instructions from the interactive instruction set to a user during a user initiated set up procedure for setting up the controlling device to communicate commands to another controllable device (e.g., a DVD, VCR, DVR, etc).
Various ways to control the ambient temperature of a room in a structure are described. In one embodiment, a method for intelligently controlling an ambient room temperature in a structure is described, comprising receiving a future outdoor temperature forecast related to a geographic area where the structure is located, and altering a temperature profile for controlling the ambient room temperature based on the future outdoor temperature forecast.
F24F 11/67 - Switching between heating and cooling modes
F24F 11/46 - Improving electric energy efficiency or saving
F24F 11/64 - Electronic processing using pre-stored data
F24F 11/65 - Electronic processing for selecting an operating mode
G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
F24F 11/61 - Control or safety arrangements characterised by user interfaces or communication using timers
F24F 11/58 - Remote control using Internet communication
In response to a detected presence of an intended target appliance within a logical topography of controllable appliances identity information associated with the intended target appliance is used to automatically add to a graphical user interface of a controlling device an icon representative of the intended target appliance and to create at a Universal Control Engine a listing of communication methods for use in controlling corresponding functional operations of the intended target appliance. When the icon is later activated, the controlling device is placed into an operating state appropriate for controlling functional operations of the intended target appliance while the Universal Control Engine uses at least one of the communication methods to transmit at least one command to place the intended target appliance into a predetermined operating state.
An apparatus includes a head portion, an undercarriage portion, and a telescopic portion configured to adjustably move into a plurality of different lengths. A first end of the head portion is rotatably attached to a first end of the undercarriage portion and a second end of the undercarriage portion is rotatably attached to a first end of the telescopic portion. A second end of the head portion is rotatably attached to a second end of the telescopic portion. In a first position, the telescopic portion has a first length of the plurality of different lengths and the head portion and the undercarriage portion form a first angle. In a second position, the telescopic portion has a second length of the plurality of different lengths and the head portion and the undercarriage portion form a second angle different from the first angle.
F16M 13/02 - Other supports for positioning apparatus or articlesMeans for steadying hand-held apparatus or articles for supporting on, or attaching to, an object, e.g. tree, gate, window-frame, cycle
A47B 97/00 - Furniture or accessories for furniture, not provided for in other groups of this subclass
98.
System, method and apparatus for propagating a primary alert of a monitoring system or device
Systems, methods and apparatus are described for propagating a primary alert from a premises monitoring system or device by a home entertainment device. A premises monitoring system or device, such as a security system, smoke detector, fire detector, carbon monoxide detector, baby monitor, smart speaker, etc., emit a primary alert when a predetermined event or condition occurs associated with a monitored premises. An indication of the primary alert is received by one or more home entertainment devices, and at least one of the home entertainment devices causes a secondary alert to occur, for example, an audio notification and/or a visual notification from the at least one home entertainment device.
A controlling device is automatically configured to issue a communication directly to a first controllable appliance to control a functional operation of the first controllable appliance in the event that the first controllable appliance is determined to be unresponsive to a command communication transmitted to the first controllable appliance via a digital communications link or to issue a communication to a second controllable appliance to control the functional operation of the first controllable appliance via a digital communications link in the event that first controllable appliance is determined to be responsive to a command communication transmitted to the first controllable appliance via a digital communications link.
H04N 21/422 - Input-only peripherals, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
H04N 5/765 - Interface circuits between an apparatus for recording and another apparatus
H04N 5/775 - Interface circuits between an apparatus for recording and another apparatus between a recording apparatus and a television receiver
H04N 21/4363 - Adapting the video stream to a specific local network, e.g. a Bluetooth® network
H04N 21/442 - Monitoring of processes or resources, e.g. detecting the failure of a recording device, monitoring the downstream bandwidth, the number of times a movie has been viewed or the storage space available from the internal hard disk
H04N 21/45 - Management operations performed by the client for facilitating the reception of or the interaction with the content or administrating data related to the end-user or to the client device itself, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies or resolving scheduling conflicts
H04N 21/485 - End-user interface for client configuration
H04N 21/41 - Structure of clientStructure of client peripherals
A system, apparatus and method for automatically controlling the volume of a home entertainment device by an HVAC component. An HVAC component determines when it, or another HVAC, is active or not, and causes a home entertainment device to adjust its volume accordingly.
