Patent Application
20050060238
All of the material in this patent document, including source code, is subject to copyright protection under the copyright laws of the United States and of other countries. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.
Submitted herewith and incorporated herein by reference are source code files comprising a computer program listing appendix. The computer program listing appendix includes source code for a script engine and source code for a compiler for compiling of script. The source code for the script engine is written in ANSI C, and the source code of the compiler is written in Visual Basic. The target hardware for this implementation is a PIC microprocessor, model number 18F8720. Forty-three computer listing files are submitted herewith as itemized on the Transmittal and as itemized in the table below. All files represent source code of the script engine except for those files as identified in the “Readme.txt” file and the “PushPlayScriptingAPI.txt” file.
The field of the present invention generally relates to controlling media events with additional media content using a controller and a removable user interface (RUI) and, with regard to certain preferred embodiments, to controlling presentation of media content by a host system using a controller and a removable user interface (RUI) and presenting of media content by the controller. In this regard, a media event includes the displaying of video content and/or audio content, referred to herein as media presentation. Generally, however, a media event also may include the capturing, recording, transferring, and/or moving of video and/or audio content, depending upon the context.
As of 2002, the popularity of DVD players continues to grow and all indications suggest that sales will remain strong for years to come. Shipments of DVD players grew by 61% in 2002, reaching a total install base of over 40M US households. With a proliferation rate that makes the device the fastest adopted format in electronics history, most estimates predict an install base of at least 60M households by 2006. The DVD format, introduced in 1997, will likely be ubiquitous within 12 years, less than half the time it took for VCRs to reach that status.
Moreover, due to a growing desire to educate (and occupy) children through television and videos, families with children under four years old are now the highest video purchasing customers with an astonishing average of preschool home video market. Indeed, parents have been recently become particularly interested in educational videos for their youngest children, the infant/toddler segment. However, despite the undeniable appeal to children of videos, many parents in focus groups confessed unease at using videos with their youngest children due to the “passive” nature of the viewing. Unlike educational toys, in which the experience of the infants and toddlers is “hands on,” children may tend to lose interest in educational videos, especially when an educational video is highly repetitive, repeating one basic lesson over and over again with various puppets, cartoons, songs and so on (as most educational videos tend to do).
Accordingly, a need exists for an educational DVD video system that is interactive and, thereby, tends to maintain the attention and interest of children viewing the video. In this respect, and in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention, a child viewing the video is able to interact, for example, by controlling educational segments of the video that are displayed; and/or by responding to questions presented in the video with appropriate responses indicating whether the response is correct.
While certainly broader in its utility, the present invention addresses this need with respect to certain preferred embodiments thereof, as described in detail below.
Briefly described, the present invention relates to controlling a media event in a host system. For example, and not by way of limitation, the present invention may be utilized to control presentation in a home entertainment system of educational programming that is recorded on a DVD disk. In this example, the media event comprises the presentation, including navigation thereof, and the host system comprises the home entertainment system. Further examples of media events include selections of broadcasted programs such as public and commercial television programs, selections of programs of controlled distributions such as cable television, selections of protected or encrypted broadcasted programs such as media content distributed by satellite transmission, selections of programming recorded by a digital video recorder (DVR), selections of programming recorded by a personal video recorder (PVR), selections of Video on Demand playback, selections on a compact disc (CD), selections available or recorded in conjunction with a programming scheduling information subscription (TiVo), selections in MP3 format, and audio playback selections. Various aspects of the present invention now are briefly described in relation to controlling a media event in a host system.
“RUI” Aspect of the Invention
In an aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for controlling a media event in a host system includes a controller and a user interface (UI) having user inputs. The apparatus further includes a machine readable medium having machine executable instructions specific to media content but not specific to any particular media device (“Device Independent Instructions”). Within this apparatus, the controller includes a processor, a program executed by the processor that interprets the Device Independent Instructions, and a library of software instructions accessible to the program for communicating by the controller to the host system, in a protocol of the host system, media device commands relating to the media event (“Device Specific Instructions”. The program, vis-à-vis the processor, in response to actuation of a user input of the UI, performs the steps of reading and/or interpreting Device Independent Instructions, accessing the Device Specific Instructions in the library based on the Device Independent Instructions read and/or interpreted, and communicating commands to the host system based on the Device Specific Instructions accessed from the library.
The machine readable medium having the Device Independent Instructions preferably comprises a controller-independent storage medium (CISM) capable of storing computer-executable instructions, and the controller preferably includes an interface for communicating with the CISM and reading the machine executable instructions therefrom. The CISM may comprise, for example, a removable memory cartridge, a memory disk, a read only memory (ROM) device, an erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM) device, any read only or read write memory device, an EEPROM or FLASH ROM device, an I2C standard device on a serial chip, or any magnetic or optical media memory storage device. The CISM may also communicate with the controller via contact points or wirelessly. Examples of a CISM may include a secure digital disk card, a multimedia card, and a memory stick. The CISM further may include, for example, a floppy disk, an optical disk, and a USB storage device.
In this aspect of the invention, the UI further comprises a removable user interface (RUI) that couples directly with the controller. The RUI further may include the CISM, having thereon the computer-readable medium for storing the Device Independent Instructions. In certain preferred embodiments set forth below in the detailed description of the invention, the RUI comprises a removable overlay that includes the CISM.
In commercial embodiments of this aspect, each RUI and CISM are packaged with the media content for which they are specifically developed to define a discrete media package, and the controller is sold separately and works with any such media package.
“Overlay” Aspect of the Invention
In another aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for controlling a media event in a host system includes a controller in at least intermittent communication with a media device and an overlay that is removably coupled to the controller. The controller includes a processor for executing software instructions. The overlay includes a plurality of user inputs and a machine readable medium having machine executable instructions comprising commands for controlling media events, whereby an appropriate communication to the media device is determined by the processor of the controller upon actuation of a user input. In accordance with this particular aspect of the present invention, the user inputs are exposed for direct contact by a user in actuation thereof, with the actuation of a user input causing the communication from the controller to the media device; the machine executable instructions of the overlay may or may not be specific to any particular media content, and the commands may or may not be specific to any particular media device.
In commercial embodiments of this aspect, a controller may be sold separately from, and work with, various different overlays.
“PUI” Aspect of the Invention
In an aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for controlling a media event or presentation by a media device or element of a host system includes a controller and a peripheral user interface (PUI) having user inputs. The PUI is preferably separable from the contoller and communicates with the controller wirelessly or by releasable cabled connection. The apparatus further includes a machine readable medium having machine executable instructions specific to media content but not specific to any particular media device (“Device Independent Instructions”). Within this apparatus, the controller includes a processor, a program executed by the processor that interprets the Device Independent Instructions, and a library of software instructions accessible to the program for communicating by the controller to the host system, in a protocol of the host system, media device commands relating to the media event (“Device Specific Instructions”). The program, vis-à-vis the processor, in response to actuation of a user input of the PUI, performs the steps of reading and/or interpreting Device Independent Instructions, accessing the Device Specific Instructions in the library based on the Device Independent Instructions read and/or interpreted, and communicating commands to the host system based on the Device Specific Instructions accessed from the library.
The machine readable medium having the Device Independent Instructions preferably comprises a controller-independent storage medium (CISM) capable of storing computer-executable instructions. In various embodiments, the CISM is part of or coupled to the PUI. The controller preferably reads the machine executable instructions through its communication with the PUI. Alternately, the controller includes an interface for communicating directly with the CISM and reading the machine executable instructions therefrom. The CISM may comprise, for example, a removable memory cartridge, a memory disk, a read only memory (ROM) device, an erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM) device, any read only or read write memory device, an EEPROM or FLASH ROM device, an I2C standard device on a serial chip, or any magnetic or optical media memory storage device. Common examples of a CISM include a secure digital disk card, a multimedia card, and a memory stick. The CISM further may include, for example, a floppy disk, an optical disk, and a USB storage device.
In this aspect of the invention, the UI further comprises a peripheral user interface (PUI) that is separate from, but communicates with, the controller. The PUI further may include the CISM, having thereon the computer-readable medium for storing the Device Independent Instructions.
Moreover, in this aspect of the invention, the PUI itself may include two members that removably couple together, including a communications component and a removable user interface (subRUI) that couples therewith. In such embodiments, the subRUI preferably includes the user inputs and the communications component communicates, for each user input that is actuated, an indication of actuation thereof to the controller. Such embodiments permit different subRUIs to be utilized with the same communications component. Moreover, the subRUI preferably includes the CISM, in which case the communications component transmits to the controller the Device Independent Instructions from the CISM for reading and interpreting thereof by the controller's processor. The communications component also may transmit any other applicable computer-executable instructions stored thereon for reading by the controller. Finally, it should further be noted that the subRUIs also may serve as RUIs for coupling directly with controllers, thereby providing yet further flexibility in the overall system of the present invention. That is, a user interface removably coupled to a controller as a RUI can be alternately removably coupled to a communications component of a PUI as a subRUI.
In commercial embodiments of this aspect, each PUI and CISM are packaged with the media content for which they are specifically developed to define a discrete media package, and the controller is sold separately and works with any such media package. Alternatively, if the PUI is provided in the form of two components that couple together, then the communications component thereof may be sold separately or with the controller, and the subRUI and CISM are packaged with the media content for which they are specifically developed.
“GUI” Aspect of the Invention
In an aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for controlling a media event in a host system includes a controller and a user interface (UI) having user inputs. The apparatus further includes a machine readable medium having machine executable instructions specific to media content but not specific to any particular media device (“Device Independent Instructions”). Within this apparatus, the controller includes a processor, a program executed by the processor that interprets the Device Independent Instructions, and a library of software instructions accessible to the program for communicating by the controller to the host system, in a protocol of the host system, media device commands relating to the media event (“Device Specific Instructions”). The program, vis-à-vis the processor, in response to actuation of a user input of the UI, performs the steps of reading and/or interpreting Device Independent Instructions, accessing the Device Specific Instructions in the library based on the Device Independent Instructions read and/or interpreted, and communicating commands to the host system based on the Device Specific Instructions accessed from the library.
The machine readable medium having the Device Independent Instructions preferably comprises a controller-independent storage medium (CISM) capable of storing computer-executable instructions, and the controller preferably includes an interface for communicating with the CISM and reading the machine executable instructions therefrom. The CISM may comprise, for example, a removable memory cartridge, a memory disk, a read only memory (ROM) device, an erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM) device, any read only or read write memory device, an EEPROM or FLASH ROM device, an I2C standard device on a serial chip, or any magnetic or optical media memory storage device. Common examples of a CISM include a secure digital disk card, a multimedia card, and a memory stick. The CISM further may include, for example, a floppy disk, an optical disk, and a USB storage device.
In this aspect of the invention, the UI further comprises a graphical user interface (GUI) that is displayed on a screen and includes a plurality of user inputs for actuation thereof. Preferably, the controller includes the screen for display of the GUI, in which case the controller's processor preferably executes machine executable instructions for providing the GUI, and the CISM preferably includes the machine executable instructions for providing the GUI.
In commercial embodiments of this aspect, each CISM is packaged with media content for which it is specifically developed to define a discrete media package, and the controller, which preferably includes the display, is sold separately and works with any such media package.
In an alternative of this aspect of the present invention, a peripheral user interface (PUI) includes the screen, in which case a processor in the PUI preferably executes machine executable instructions for providing the GUI. (The PUI generally is described above in connection with another aspect of the present invention.) If the GUI is provided utilizing a screen of the PUI, then the PUI includes the machine readable medium having the machine executable instructions for providing the GUI or, alternatively, the PUI itself includes an interface for receiving a CISM that contains the machine readable medium having the machine executable instructions for providing the GUI. In embodiments of the PUI that comprise two components that couple together, the communications component preferably includes the screen, and the second component includes a CISM including the machine readable medium having the machine executable instructions for providing the GUI.
“Controller with Conditional Programming Language” Aspect of the Invention
In another aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for controlling a media event in a host system includes a controller having a processor and a conditional programming language operating system, whereby the processor executes software containing conditional statements of logic (e.g., “if . . . then” instructions) for determining one or more appropriate commands to send to the host system in response to actuation of one or more user inputs. Preferably, software is written specifically for media content that is the subject of a media event in the host system and is stored in a controller-independent storage medium (CISM) that is provided in conjunction with the media content. Moreover, the controller preferably includes an interface for receiving the CISM and reading the software therefrom. The CISM may comprise, for example, a removable memory cartridge, a memory disk, a read only memory (ROM) device, an erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM) device, any read only or read write memory device, an EEPROM or FLASH ROM device, an I2C standard device on a serial chip, or any magnetic or optical media memory storage device. Common examples of a CISM include a secure digital disk card, a multimedia card, and a memory stick. The CISM further may include, for example, a floppy disk, an optical disk, and a USB storage device.
“Accompanying Media Content” Aspect of the Invention
In yet another aspect of the present invention, additional media content is provided that accompanies and is presented by the apparatus for controlling the media event. The additional media content may represent audio and/or visual prompts, responses, answers, instructions, questions, scoring, or indications of progress. This additional media content preferably accompanies the Device Independent Instructions of the CISM. In some preferred embodiments the additional media content is specific to the media content selection to which the Device Independent Instructions are specific. In other embodiments, the additional media content is not specific to a particular media content selection. In accordance with this aspect of the present invention, a media presentation component is included in the apparatus for presenting this additional media content. This media presentation component of the apparatus may comprise a speaker and/or display screen of the controller for presenting this additional media content, or a speaker and/or display screen of the user interface (UI) if the UI is separate from the controller. If the UI comprises a GUI of the controller, then this additional media content may be presented on the GUI display of the controller as well as through a speaker of the controller in conjunction therewith.
“Controller and Removable User Interface (RUI) for Media Event and Additional Media Content” Aspects of the Invention
In an aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for controlling a media event in a host system includes a removable user interface (RUI), a user input, a controller to which the RUI is removably attached, a machine readable medium having device dependent instructions, and a controller-independent storage medium (CISM) having device independent instructions. Optionally, additional media content is presented through the controller to accompany the media event of the host system.
In commercial embodiments of this aspect, the RUI comprises a multi-page book having graphical indicia for guiding a user in selecting a particular user input. Furthermore, in such embodiments, each RUI and CISM are packaged with the media content for which they are specifically developed to define a discrete media package, and the controller is sold separately and works with any such media package.
These, and other aspects of the invention, as well as features thereof, will be more readily understood upon consideration of the attached drawings and of the following detailed description of certain preferred embodiments. Moreover, it should be understood that one or more aspects of the present invention may be combined together to form additional aspects of the present invention.
Further aspects, features, and benefits of the present invention will be apparent from a detailed description of certain preferred embodiments thereof taken in conjunction with the drawings, wherein similar elements are referred to with similar reference numbers.
As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by those persons skilled in the art that the present invention is susceptible of broad utility and application in view of the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the present invention. Many devices, methods, and adaptations of the embodiments other than those herein described, as well as many variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be apparent from or reasonably suggested by the following detailed description without departing from the substance or scope of the present invention. Accordingly, while the present invention is described herein in detail in relation to preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary and is made merely for purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention. The detailed description set forth herein is not intended, nor is to be construed, to limit the general breadth of the present invention or otherwise to exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications and equivalent arrangements, the present invention being limited only by the claims appended in an issued patent therefor, and the equivalents thereof.
With reference to
The preferred embodiment 100 of
In particular, the pushing of a button (i.e., actuation of a user input) results in the DVD player 122 displaying a particular educational segment on screen 105. Moreover, in this preferred embodiment 100, the button includes graphical indicia pertaining to the media content that is displayed as a result of pushing the button. Thus, the pushing by hand 128 of the button including indicia of a train results in an educational video segment being displayed pertaining to trains. In other words, pressing a button lets a child trigger presentation of media content associated with the subject matter that is indicated by the button. This type of interaction between a user and media presentation is most suitable for children within the age groups of one to three, teaching a child basic motor skills and empowering the child, and is preferably used to instruct a child about basic sets of abstract concepts regarding, for example, colors, shapes, letters, numbers, animals, and instruments.
It should also be noted that greater interactive content media also can be utilized. In this regard, the media content presentation may include a question and answer format, wherein the media content displayed directly poses a question that can be answered by pushing a particular button. As an example, a segment of a video may state, “Click on the animal that eats bananas,” and wherein the child then clicks on the button depicting a monkey and triggers the positive response “You're right! A monkey eats bananas!” or, alternatively, clicks on a button depicting another animal and triggers the response “Sorry, Please try again!” Alternatively, the media content presentation may include a “choose your own adventure” format, wherein the media content narrative pauses at key points in a storyline in order for the child to determine the future direction of the story. As an example, a segment of the video may state, “Should you go take the road going North or the road going South?” and wherein, if the child then clicks on the button indicating “North” the story resumes with that choice as its basis and if the child then clicks on the button indicating “South” the story resumes with that alternative choice as its basis.
As will be appreciated, overlay 102 is not generic to DVD 112 because the overlay 102 provides illustratively labeled button 104 that are correlated to different portions of the media content of DVD 112.
In accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention, the overlay 102 of
With regard to one or more aspects of the present invention, the multimedia system of
A preferred media package is illustrated in
Other preferred embodiments of media packages (not shown) include a media package for use or study of geographic content regarding the United States or geometric shapes. In the former example, the overlay is arranged as a map with the buttons shaped and arranged as states. The pushing of a state shaped button then would result in presentation of educational information on that state, which information is stored on a DVD corresponding to the overlay. In the latter example, the overlay includes buttons of various geometric shapes, such as a circle, triangle, rectangle, and square. The pushing of a geometrically shaped button then would result in presentation of educational information on that particular geometric shape of the button, which information is stored on a DVD corresponding to the overlay.
In should be noted that, in the preferred embodiments of
With respect to the attachment of an overlay to a controller,
It should be understood that any desired or suitable n to m correlation of any number (n) inputs to any number (m) of controller switches is within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, though the figures illustrate for convenience spatial alignments of user inputs to correlated controller switches, it should be understood that other alignments or associations facilitated by cantilevers, pads, moving parts, or electrical contacts correlating any one, any number, or any area of inputs to any one, any number, or any area of controller switches are within the scope of the present system.
With reference now to
A similar, but alternative exemplary plan diagram of a RUI and controller is shown, respectively, in
Whether an electronic signal is provided by a switch in the controller 150 of
Upon receiving an electronic signal, ultimately in response to actuation of a user input of a RUI, the processor (in accordance with a program that it runs) responds appropriately such as, for example, by causing an emitter, which is also included in the controller, to transmit an appropriate command to a media device. The emitter can be any wireless transmission device, for example, a radio frequency (RF) transmitter, an infrared (1R) emitter, an IRDA device, or a Bluetooth device. Alternatively or in conjunction with a wireless device, the emitter can comprise any conducting wire or fiber optic signal generator. The emitter sends signals to control external devices such as DVD players, CD players, computers, and televisions, just to name a few. The emitter can be coupled to one or more media devices through a parallel port connection, a serial port connection, or a USB port connection. Additionally, when the emitter comprises an IR emitter, the emitter preferably is a multiple angled emitter, which helps insure that transmissions are received despite potential line of sight obstacles.
As will be appreciated, the appropriate response by the processor to an electronic signal will be dependent upon the media package, i.e., the media content being presented and the RUI being utilized. To illustrate this “dependency” point, take for example the base structure 150 of
In order that the processor of the controller is properly instructed how to react when a signal is received, each RUI contains machine executable instructions stored in a machine readable medium, such as software stored in memory of the RUI. This memory represents a controller-independent storage medium (CISM). In preferred embodiments of one or more aspects of the present invention, the software comprises a script that is interpreted by the processor by running a program that is a script engine or script interpreter (hereinafter referred to as “Interpreter”). Furthermore, the script stored in the CISM preferably is at least partially compiled. The script essentially comprises control or navigational rules by which the Interpreter determines an appropriate response to receipt of a signal upon actuation of a user input. By providing script that is specific to media content associated with a particular overlay, overlays are able to couple to, and function with, similar or identical controllers; the scripts of the overlays provide the specific control or navigational rules appropriate to the media content to which the overlays correspond; in essence, the script provides the logic by which the Interpreter operates.
The script is read by the Interpreter through electrical contacts between the RUI and the controller. Again, with reference to
It will be appreciated that the script of a particular overlay, while dependent upon the media content, is not dependent upon, and thus is independent of, the particular host system, e.g., the particular DVD player that is used for presentation of the media content. Instead, the controller is dependent upon the particular host system in that the controller includes the particular communication protocol of the host system so that appropriate commands controlling the media presentation may be communicated to the host system. Moreover, the controller preferably includes a library of communication protocols or codes for different host systems, whereby the same controller can be used with different host systems similar to the multiple use capability of “universal” remotes with various electronic devices of different manufacturers. Of course, the particular media devices that are used in a particular environment will need to be identified to the controller for appropriate identification by the controller of the device specific commands from which to select in its library. The controller also preferably includes upgrade capabilities, whereby the library can be updated over time with additional communication protocols to ensure compatibility with future host systems and components thereof. Each protocol enables the Interpreter to communicate commands to the host system via the emitter for control of the media presentation. By making the user interface (UI) independent of the host system but dependent upon the media content, making the controller independent of the media package but dependent upon the host system, and by making UIs interoperable with different controllers, the present invention enjoys great flexibility and utility. Indeed, a single controller can serve a wide variety of UIs, and a single controller can be utilized with a wide variety of host systems. This relationship is further illustrated, for example, in
In an aspect of the present invention, as illustrated in
The machine readable medium 208 having the Device Independent Instructions 210 preferably comprises a controller-independent storage medium (CISM) capable of storing computer-executable instructions, and the controller 204 preferably includes an interface for communicating with the CISM and reading the machine executable instructions therefrom.
With additional regard to the library of communication protocols of the controller, the Interpreter may access and read command codes of a particular host system as part of an initialization process when the overlay is coupled to the controller, or the Interpreter may read command codes periodically or upon actuation of a user input. Upon receipt of a signal, the Interpreter first refers to the script for the appropriate response and, then, refers to the particular protocol and command or commands of the host system, as reflected in the protocol for that host system, in order to achieve the appropriate response as identified with reference to the script. The Interpreter then causes the appropriate command or commands to be transmitted to the host system by the emitter. For example, an appropriate response to a signal that is received by the Interpreter may be, pursuant to the current script, to access a particular title and chapter, begin play, and then pause playback until an another signal is received as a result of a subsequent user actuation of a RUI input. To accomplish this response, the Interpreter determines the appropriate commands to communicate to the host system.
With additional regard to the Interpreter, the script language preferably comprises a complete media programming language written in modular fashion that includes features of conditional branches; states maintained; and variable data created, read, and updated. The Interpreter also preferably is backwards compatible for interpreting script written for older versions of the Interpreter, thereby allowing the software language to evolve without requiring hardware upgrades in the field. The script language preferably contains high level verbs that allow users to easily control interactive media, and contains all of the normal programming constructs, such as conditional statements, loops, macros, parameters, variable data, data storage, etc.
Each script preferably is developed utilizing an application programming interface (API) which can be a simple scripting language based upon standard XML protocols. The script language also preferably utilizes standards based on widely accepted XML syntax to provide the mechanism for scriptable media interactivity. Robust conditional logic and an event driven model enable considerable flexibility in the adaptability of instructions, making complex forms of interactivity possible.
An exemplary script for an input comprising a button is shown in
With regard to further detail of the script structure, the syntax is XML elements and attributes. Commands (verbs) are XML elements. Parameters are XML attributes. Using this syntax, the script language is easily created or changed. Commands can be upgraded by modifying the parameters (attributes). New commands can be added, or dropped.
For example, if a command to issue the “Play” command to a DVD is desired, then the command that is utilized is <Play/>. If later the behavior of this command is to be changed, then parameters (attributes) could be added. Thus, the inclusion of a parameter “seconds” could be added. This parameter, if present, would issue the Play command for “n” seconds and then Pause, and the command would look like <Play seconds=“10”/>. Furthermore, such changes take place without modification of a compiler since they adhere to the XML syntax.
Another aspect of XML that is utilized in the script language is the concept of “child elements,” which provide many advantages. The primary use is to group commands to be executed when a particular user input (such as a button) is actuated. For example, a group of commands are issued when the “Monkey” button is pressed in accordance with the script of
As will be apparent from the foregoing, a script in accordance with preferred embodiments of one or more aspects of the present invention includes a collection of media device independent commands for controlling media presentation, as illustrated in
An example of a conditional statement in a script is shown in
The exemplary script of
With reference to
With reference to
In accordance with
As demonstrated in
Scripts can be created with any available and suitable text editor. Additionally, scripts can be compiled into a machine independent format suitable for placing in script storage. Compiling a script can greatly reduce its size and allow its maintenance in machine independent format. A “drag and drop” visual editor can aid programming in the overlay software language and enable a producer with little programming skills to create interactivity instructions for a specific overlay. An integrated DVD player can allow editing, playback and testing from a single workstation. More technical users can be provided the option of editing using a more traditional development interface.
A programmer or developer adds commands to a “Table of Commands” in the Interpreter. The developer then provides the address of a software routine that will be called when the script so indicates by reference to a command of the Table of Commands.
For example, when the “Sleep” command is interpreted, the referenced program code performs the following, a) Fetch the “seconds” parameter, b) Fetch the “milliseconds” parameter, c) Delay program execution for the appropriate amount of time as specified by the parameters.
If it were desired that the command be changed to have parameters for minutes and seconds instead of seconds and milliseconds, then it would be extremely easy to change the program code to support the different parameters. Moreover, no changes in a compiler or the Interpreter would be required. Thus, for a command to be removed, it only need be deleted from the Command Table and the code thereof removed that would otherwise be called in execution of the command. Conversely, to add a command, an entry in the Command Table needs to be made with appropriate reference to the code for executing the command.
In accordance with preferred embodiments of one or more aspects of the present invention, the script language preferably includes the following commands that relate to DVD players: MENU (stops title playback and displays the top or root menu for the current title of the DVD); TITLE (stops title playback and displays the title menu); RESUME (returns to playback mode from menu mode at the same title position as when the menu was invoked); BACK (returns the display from a submenu to its parent menu); PLAY (causes the DVD to start playing, or resumes play of a paused item); STOP (stops the playing of the DVD); PAUSE (pauses the playing of the chapter); NEXTCHAPTER (seeks and plays the next chapter; will loop); PREVCHAPTER (seeks and plays the previous chapter. Will loop); TITLESEEK (seeks and plays the first chapter in the title; title number is 1 to 99); CHAPTERSEEK (seeks and plays the chapter in the current title; chapter number is 1 to 999); TIMESEEK (seeks to a specific time on the DVD; parameters include hour, minute, and second); FASTFORWARD (starts fast forwarding); FASTREVERSE (starts fast reversing); PUSHBUTTON (simulates a button press on a remote control device); and PUSHNUMBERS (simulates pressing the number buttons).
Basic commands that are found in all scripts regardless of the actual implementation of the present invention preferably include: PUSHPLAY (defines a new script; parameters include script type and id); BUTTON (defines commands that will be executed when signal for button is received); TRICKPLAY (defines a macro, whish is a collection of commands that will be executed multiple times; parameters can be passed that modify macro behavior); IF (Conditional command; will execute block of commands if condition is true); SET (sets value of a variable data item); @(FETCH) (returns value of a variable); INCREMENT (increments a variable with a range; when maximum limit is reached, will restart a minimum value); APPEND (appends a string value to a variable); BUTTONSON (enables PushPlay to react to button presses); BUTTONSOFF (disables PushPlay from reacting to button presses); SLEEP (sleeps for time period; awakens upon RUI input actuation); and SLEEPHARD (sleeps for time period; does not wakeup upon RUI input actuation).
Commands and parameters of a preferred embodiment implemented in computer software can be found in the file titled “PushPlayScriptingAPI.txt”, which is submitted herewith and is hereby incorporated herein by reference. An exemplary script facilitating understanding of the present invention also can be found therein.
In a feature of one or more aspects of the present invention, the Interpreter also monitors and records historical data regarding session use of a user interface (UI). This collected data then may be utilized to modify future sessions or provide feedback to users. Such data may include the number of times a particular user input is actuated, the performance level of a user in interacting with an interactive media presentation, or the number of “right” answers that are provided by a user in response to certain media content, such as an interactive educational video. Memory in the controller and or the overlay may be utilized in storing such monitored data. Instructions for monitoring and recording the data, if any, preferably are included in the script.
In another feature of one or more aspects of the present invention, the controller is a multi mode device and the interpreter maintains the state of the controller, whereby different responses may be provided as a function of the current state of the controller upon receipt of the same signal. For example, when the mode switch is set to position “1,” actuation of a specific user input may initiate the playing of chapter 10; however, when the mode switch is set to position “2,” actuation of the same user input may initiate the playing of the next chapter, or the playing of chapter 36, for example.
In yet another feature of one or more aspects of the present invention, users themselves are able to “write” scripts for their own personal use. In this regard, a program or one or more macros are provided that automate the script writing function, whereby users do not have to actually know any particular scripting language in order to create and customize scripts for their use and enjoyment in controlling media events.
In view of the foregoing detailed description of preferred embodiments of one or more aspects of the present invention, it readily will be understood by those persons skilled in the art that these aspects of the present invention are susceptible of broad utility and application. While various aspects have been described in certain contexts, the aspects may be useful in other contexts as well. Many embodiments and adaptations of these aspects of the present invention other than preferred embodiments described herein, as well as many variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be apparent from or reasonably suggested by the foregoing description, without departing from the substance or scope of the present invention.
Furthermore, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of steps of various processes described and claimed herein are those considered to be the best mode contemplated for carrying out these described aspects of the present invention. It should also be understood that, although steps of various processes may be shown and described as being in a preferred sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processes are not limited to being carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent a specific indication of such to achieve a particular intended result. In most cases, the steps of such processes may be carried out in various different sequences and orders, while still falling within the scope of the present inventions.
Accordingly, while one or more aspects of the present invention have been described herein in detail in relation to preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that this detailed description is only illustrative and exemplary of these aspects of the present invention and is made merely for purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosure is not intended, nor is to be construed to limit, the present invention or otherwise to exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications and equivalent arrangements.
For example, with regard to the preferred embodiment 100 of
In addition thereto, the overlay 132 of
Each RUI is specific to the medium content of a particular medium unit, with user input concepts that relate to its purpose and content, and look-and-feel branding based on the brand and/or content of the DVD. A RUI can have any size, shape, and form of user inputs that makes sense for its content and educational purpose. For example, the RUI and/or controller could resemble a book, wherein the turning of the pages of the book triggers a media event related to the content of the current page(s) of the book being viewed. The RUI also could take the form of a mini-piano, wherein certain notes or chords trigger particular video and/or audio presentations. More complex interactivity formats, like the “question-and-answer” format, could be used to teach and test specific notes and chords in learning to play the musical instrument. The RUI could further include a dance mat, wherein certain step combinations would trigger particular video and/or audio presentations. A RUI also could comprise a character or doll, wherein pressing of certain parts of the body would trigger media events for teaching about the body parts, etc. The RUI and/or the controller also could include a voice recognition component, wherein voice commands to trigger media events would be enabled.
Additionally, within the scope of the inventive system, there are various alternatives to storing scripts in a script element of a RUI for access by the Interpreter. Such alternatives include dynamically reading and accessing the script by the Interpreter, either wirelessly (IR, IRDA, radio) or wired (rs232, Ethernet, USB, etc.). This is especially convenient when the script has been compiled, making it easily portable to many different environments. Of course, the script that is accessed by the Interpreter would still need to be dependent upon the RUI that is used with the controller.
It will also be appreciated by those having ordinary skill in the art that the foregoing description of one or more aspects of the present invention encompasses not only presentation of media content, but control of other media events utilizing a controller and removable RUI. Thus, for instance, a command to record media content can be communicated to a host system in accordance with these aspects of the present invention with, for example, the UI being associated with the media content to be recorded.
Finally, while these aspects of the present invention have been described with regard to preferred embodiments directed to children toys and/or child education, the present invention is useful in a wide range of applications including educational tools, product demonstrations, healthcare applications, and entertainment purposes for people of all ages and interests.
In addition to the foregoing detailed description of certain preferred embodiments of one or more aspects of the present invention, another preferred embodiment of one or more aspects of the present invention is illustrated in
Like the Device Independent Instructions, the user inputs of the GUI preferably are specific to the media content. In this regard, the user inputs of the GUI preferably appear in arrangements each specific to a particular media content selection. For example, the GUI also may include user inputs representing navigational functions that are related to the particular selection. In a particular commercial embodiment, the user inputs of the GUI comprises a pictorial representation of the alphabet, and the machine readable medium having the GUI defining instructions and the media control instructions comprises a cartridge that commercially accompanies a DVD having interactive educational content directed to alphabet lessons for children. In utilizing this commercial embodiment, a user places the learning DVD into a DVD player, engages the cartridge with the controller, and presses any particular alphabet letter represented on the GUI to enjoy particular content portions of the learning DVD regarding the particular letter.
The CISM comprises a removable storage medium 232 that removably couples to the controller 230, and includes machine executable instructions 234 that are specific to the media content (the “Media Control Instructions”) as well as machine executable instructions 236 for providing the GUI on the display screen (the “GUI Defining Instructions”). The GUI Defining Instructions 236 define the user inputs of the GUI that provide the user with virtual buttons for interactive viewing of the media content. The controller's processor reads these instructions for providing the GUI and for interpreting actuation of user inputs of the GUI and determining appropriate actions to take.
Another embodiment including a GUI in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention is illustrated in
Yet another embodiment including a GUI in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention is illustrated in
An exemplary commercial embodiment of the preferred embodiment of
In like manner, an exemplary commercial embodiment of the preferred embodiment of
While the user inputs of the GUI are described as being specific to media content, in certain preferred embodiments the user inputs actually are generic to media content. In such an embodiment, for example, the user inputs appear as music track navigating buttons for use with music media content. Standard music media functions that can be provided by way of indicia and touch-responsive areas include, but are not limited to play, stop, record, forward one track, back one track, return to the first track, skip to the final track, track sequence programming, perpetual random track play, and sound volume and quality controls. In this example wherein the arrangement of the indicia of the GUI has a common appearance for use with many different music selections, one readable medium having the GUI defining instructions and the media control instructions is useful with many different particular media content selections.
In an embodiment in accordance with the “PUI” aspect of the present invention, a peripheral user interface (PUI), which communicates optionally wirelessly with a controller, includes a screen on which the GUI is displayed. In this variation, an example of which is shown in
The Device Independent Instructions 294 are available to a processor 298 of a controller 300 through the communications 302 of the PUI 282 with the controller. Also accessible by the processor 298, are machine executable instructions 299 for sending device specific commands to the media device 301 (Device Dependent Instructions 299).
A plurality of user inputs 297 of the PUI are defined according to the instructions 292 as touch sensitive areas of the GUI 288 visible on the screen 286 for selection and actuation by a user. Upon actuation of one of user inputs 297, communication 302 is sent from the PUI to the controller prompting the processor 298 to perform one or more of the Device Independent Instructions 294, and based thereon, the processor performs one or more the Device Dependent Instructions 299 resulting in the controller 300 sending a signal to the media device 301 thereby controlling a presentation of a media event which, in this example, comprises the presentation of the media content 296.
Though in
A peripheral user interface (PUI) comprises a peripheral device for use in conjunction with a controller in accordance with various controller embodiments of the present invention. A PUI provides one or more user inputs for selection and actuation by a user. Furthermore, the PUI conveys a communication to a controller to effect the control of a media device, a media presentation, or some element of a host system as directed by the user through the PUI and controller. In preferred embodiments, a PUI communicates wirelessly with a controller. In one such preferred embodiment, a PUI is powered by replaceable or rechargeable batteries. In another such preferred embodiment, a PUI is powered through an electrical cord having a plug that is received by a typical power outlet available in homes and businesses. In yet another embodiment, a PUI communicates through a releasable cabled connection in the fashion of a plug and play device. Power for the PUI can be provided through the releasable cabled connection, or by batteries, or by a separate electrical cord. In yet another embodiment, a PUI is capable of both wireless and cabled communication with a controller according to the preference of a user at the time of use. Moreover, in a preferred embodiment, the communication coupling of a PUI to a controller is separable. Various embodiments of a PUI can be conveniently placed or carried by a user allowing a user to direct a presentation from a location spaced from a controller.
A variation of an embodiment of a PUI is shown in
The instructions 314 are available to a processor 315 of the controller 310 through the communications 317 between the communications component 306 and the controller. Also accessible by the processor, is a library 318 of machine executable instructions 319 for communicating commands 313 for controlling the media device 305.
In certain preferred embodiments of this aspect, the subRUI also removably couples to the controller rather than just to the communications component, thereby providing alternative arrangements available for selection by a user. That is, within the scope of the present invention, a user interface removably coupled to a controller as a RUI can be alternately removably coupled to a communications component of a PUI as a subRUI. Thus a user may learn familiarity with a particular user interface and use it by choice alternately as a RUI coupled removably to the controller or as a subRUI coupled removably to a communications component of a PUI.
Though the embodiment of the communications component 306 illustrated in
In
In another embodiment, a CISM is separate from a subRUI and removably couples with a subRUI, a communications component, and/or a controller. In some commercial embodiments, each subRUI and CISM combination is packaged with media content for which it is specifically developed to define a discrete media package. The controller and communications component may be separately sold apart or together, and each may work with any such media package.
An exemplary media package 601 illustrated in
The communication of the PUI 602 to a controller of a media device is by wireless transmission in a preferred embodiment. In another embodiment, the communication is conveyed by a cabled connection that is releasable.
In the illustrated embodiment, the medium 604 removably couples with the PUI 602 by being received in a port 606. In another embodiment of a media package, a PUI includes, as a part thereof, a machine readable medium that has instructions as those of medium 604. Furthermore, a GUI 607 is provided in the illustrated embodiment of the PUI 602 and machine executable instructions for defining the GUI are contained in the medium 604. In another embodiment of a media package, a PUI is provided without a GUI.
Another exemplary media package 610 illustrated in
It will of course be apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art that the foregoing discloses an apparatus for controlling media events of one or more media devices. In this regard,
In this exemplary embodiment, the user interface is shown having a plurality of user inputs including circular buttons 1, 2, and 3 and rectangular buttons A and B. Pushing rectangular button A turns on both the DVD player and/or the television (if off), and further initiates play of any media content in the DVD player on the television if currently not playing. The playing of media content from a DVD is illustrated in
Referring back now to
If the child becomes tired of the educational programming on spelling, the child may switch to cable programming by pushing the rectangular button B on the user interface to switch over to cable programming. In switching over to cable programming, the controller 326 of the apparatus communicates wirelessly with the television 324. This communication 330 by the controller with the television is shown in
Of course, a parent may wish to limit the viewing by a child of cable programming and may wish to encourage a child to view the educational programming of a DVD by rewarding the child with the opportunity to view cable programming. In this regard, the apparatus may be programmed to permit switching to cable programming only after a predetermined event has occurred, such as a predetermined number of spellings have been correctly selected by the child. The cable programming also may be limited to a predetermined time period, after which the apparatus discontinues viewing of the cable programming. Due to the conditional programming capabilities of the apparatus, vast possibilities exist for customizing the viewing experience of the child.
As will be appreciated from the foregoing, multiple media devices can be controlled using the apparatus of one or more aspects of the present invention.
In yet another aspect of the present invention, additional media content is provided that accompanies and is presented by the apparatus for controlling the media event. A preferred embodiment of this aspect is illustrated, for example, in
In the illustrated embodiment of
In other embodiments, additional media content is not specific to particular media content. For example, exemplary additional media content that is generic to media content relates to controlling a media presentation device. In this example, a speaker component of the controller indicates to a user that a command has been issued to prompt the presentation of media content by playing an additional media content audio sample that states “Please wait, your selection will soon begin.”
In yet other embodiments, additional media content relates to media content but is not specific to a particular media content selection. In one such example, a series of educational lessons in math, spelling, and geography are available on a number of different DVD selections. Each particular DVD selection provides the series hosted by a particular animated character. This provides a child an opportunity to choose a favored character to promote the child's interest in the lessons. Additional media content is provided for presentation through a controller in conjunction with the lessons but is generic to the particular animated character hosting the lessons. In this example, the additional media content comprises audio content that is played through the controller to simulate a teacher interacting with both the child user and the chosen animated character for a simulated classroom experience wherein the animated character is a simulated classmate. The controller pronounces words in a spelling lesson and the child user and simulated classmate take turns attempting to spell the words. The child engages in a competition with the simulated classmate and learns that occasionally making mistakes is part of the learning experience of any student by seeing that the simulated classmate sometimes provides a wrong answer.
While not shown, each CISM in each of
By providing accompanying media content, an additional interactive experience can be provided to the user/viewer of the media event. For instance, in the given example above with reference to
Due to the ability of the technology of one or more aspects of the present invention to define navigational rules for media presentations, preferred embodiments of one or more aspects of the present invention may be utilized in conjunction with both existing and well as new media content developed for use specifically for this technology.
For instance, a DVD of Disney's “The Little Mermaid,” which existed prior to the present invention, nevertheless can be viewed in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention. An interactive viewing of the Little Mermaid is accomplished by creating appropriate script, whereby each of the user inputs on a user interface relates to appropriate corresponding video segments and, with the “push of a button,” a child can access favorite character scenes, character songs, or interface with bonus material. Moreover, using the “Accompanying Media Content” aspect of the present invention extends the interactive viewing experience without altering the existing DVD by adding audio and/or visual prompts that play from a media presentation component of the control apparatus.
Due to the ability of the technology of one or more aspects of the present invention to work with existing titles, interactive viewing in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention across large libraries of existing titles is achieved.
In addition to working with existing media content such as CDs and DVDs, such existing media content can be combined with newly created media content (“Augmented”) in accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention to further enhance the interactive experience of a user. In this regard, for example, an existing DVD can be reproduced to include not only the original media content thereof, but additional media content specifically developed for use with the technology of one or more aspects of the present invention. The additional media content may include, for example, video prompts.
Existing media content also can be combined with other existing media content on machine readable media (“Repurposed”), such as a CDs or DVDs, for use with the technology of one or more aspects of the present invention. Of course, the repurposed media content additionally can be augmented with additional media content specifically developed for use with the technology of one or more aspects of the present invention. Such repurposed and augmented media content represents a preferred “retrofitting” method of existing media content for use with the technology of one or more aspects of the present invention, as greatly enhanced interactive viewing of the preexisting media content is thereby achieved.
In an aspect of the present invention, as illustrated in
The program, vis-à-vis the processor, in response to actuation of the user input, performs the steps of reading and/or interpreting Device Independent Instructions, accessing the Device Dependent Instructions in the library based on the Device Independent Instructions read and/or interpreted, and communicating commands to the host system based on the Device Specific Instructions accessed from the library. That is, actuation of the user input prompts the controller to send a command to the host system for controlling the presentation of a media event. The command sent depends both on the Device Independent Instructions, with regard to the particular media event, and on the Device Dependent Instructions, with regard to controlling the particular host system.
In
Surface position location systems for determining a location of a stylus proximal a surface and interpreting that determination as a user input to prompt the retrieval of stored data pertaining to the determined location are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,686,705 to Conroy, et al., (the “Conroy patent”) which is hereby incorporated herein by reference, and in U.S. Pat. No. 5,877,458 to Flowers, (the “Flowers patent”) which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
For example, the host system 382 of
In other examples (not illustrated herein), placements and shapes of actuation zones are generic to media presentations but particular zones are nonetheless related to particular media events. In such an example, a collection of rectangular zones comprises a grid of cells and placement of a stylus proximal a particular cell prompts occurrence of a particular media event. The Device Independent Instructions 390 correlate particular cells to particular media events, but the layout of the grid of cells is common to various correlations and various media events.
The RUI 386 of
The RUI 386 of
In the embodiment illustrated in
In yet another aspect of the present invention, additional media content is provided that accompanies, and is presented in conjunction with, a media event of a host system. With regard to this aspect, a controller that commands a host system in the presentation of media content includes a media presentation component for presenting additional media content. A preferred embodiment of this aspect is illustrated in
In one example, the additional media content is specific to a media event. Particularly, the additional media content is specific to and relates to the media content to which the Device Independent Instructions are specific. The additional media content represents prompts and information for guiding a user in navigating the educational media content of a DVD. Furthermore, the additional media content comprises audio content including audio samples, prompts, responses, answers, instructions, questions, scoring, and indications of progress in a learning experience. In this example, a speaker component of the controller indicates to a user in one instance that a correct choice has been made by playing an audio sample that sounds like a bell chime and in another instance that an incorrect choice has been made by playing an audio sample that sounds like a penalty buzzer.
In another example, the additional media content relates to attempts to control a media presentation device. For example, a speaker component of the controller indicates to a user that a command has been issued to prompt the presentation of media content by playing an additional media content audio sample that states “Please wait, your selection will soon begin.”
In yet another example, the controller detects a failure in a control attempt and alerts a user by playing an additional media content audio sample that states “Your DVD player is not responding.” In this example, the media content of a DVD includes audio content for playing through a speaker of the host system to be received by a microphone of the controller (not illustrated) and to be interpreted by the processor of the controller. An audio feedback relation between the host system and the controller requires no modification of existing commercially available host systems such as home DVD players and speaker systems. Furthermore, an audio feedback relation arrangement provides for continuous or intermittent synchronization of media content presented by a host system with additional media content presented audibly or visually by a controller. Exemplary audio content for conveying feedback signals from the host system to the controller comprises high frequency and low frequency tones that are inaudible to human ears and are not noticeable or are negligibly noticeable to a user.
A particular commercial embodiment of an apparatus for controlling presentation of media content by a host system is shown in top view, elevation view, and side view in
In the preferred embodiment shown in
The pages of the RUI 432 book that overlays the controller 420 in
A preferred media package 442 for use in conjunction with the embodiment of the invention shown in
In a preferred embodiment of the invention as shown in
Previously to the instant of
In an aspect of the present invention, as illustrated in
The controller 484 includes a processor 500 and a program executed by the processor for communicating by the controller to the host system, in a protocol of the host system, media device commands 502 relating to controlling the media event. The program, vis-à-vis the processor, in response to actuation of the user input, performs the steps of reading and/or interpreting Device Independent Instructions, accessing the Device Dependent Instructions in the library based on the Device Independent Instructions read and/or interpreted, and communicating commands to the host system based on the Device Dependent Instructions accessed from the library. That is, actuation of the user input prompts the controller to send a command to the host system for controlling the presentation of a media event. The command sent depends on the nature of user input and the Device Independent Instructions, with regard to the particular media event, and on the Device Dependent Instructions, with regard to controlling the particular host system.
In
In one embodiment of a user input, a position sensor comprises a plurality of pressure sensitive switches. The pressing of one or more of the switches defines a particular actuation of the user input. In this embodiment, a RUI overlays the user input and has graphical indicia representing individual switches or areas of switches to guide a user in selecting a particular actuation. In this embodiment, pressing of one or more of the switches occurs through the overlaying RUI.
In a preferred embodiment of the user input 498, the position sensor has an active range of sensitivity. The user input is actuated by a users placement of a selector 504 within the active range. One or more user input selections 506 are defined within the user input and are each selectable by the position of the placement of the selector. In this embodiment, the RUI 486 overlays the user input and has graphical indicia 508 representing input selections to guide a user in making a particular user input selection 510 favored by the user and represented by a particular graphical indication 512. The position sensor detects placement of the selector within the active range through the overlaying RUI and generates a signal that is dependent on the location of the detected placement. The controller 484 interprets the location dependent signal as an actuation of the particular user input selection 510 and sends a command 502 to the host system 482 for controlling the presentation of a media event. The command sent depends on the Device Independent Instructions 490 and the selection 510, with regard to presentation of a particular media event, and depends on particular Device Dependent Instructions 497, with regard to controlling a particular device of the host system to deliver the presentation.
For example, the media event of
A position sensor for detecting the presence of a selector within an active range, for determining the location of the selector, and for generating a signal associated with a selection according to the location of the selector is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/448,583 of Kelley et al (the “Kelley application”), filed on May 30, 2003, as published under Pub. No. US2004/0043365A1 on Mar. 4, 2004, which patent application is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
Though the user input 498 of
In the preferred embodiment illustrated in
As illustrated in
In
A particular commercial embodiment of the controller 484 of
In
The descriptions set forth above are not intended, nor are to be construed, to limit the general breadth of the present invention or otherwise to exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications and equivalent arrangements, the present invention being limited only by the claims appended in an issued patent therefor, and the equivalents thereof.
The present application is a Continuation-In-Part application of, and claims the benefit of priority to, each of co-pending U.S. non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 10/605,868 of Gravina et al., titled “Controller and Removable User Interface (RUI) for Media Presentation,” filed Nov. 1, 2003, which non-provisional patent application hereby is incorporated herein by reference and which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. 119 to U.S. provisional patent application 60/423,161 of Gravina, titled “SmartToys Multimedia Learning System,” filed Nov. 1, 2002, which provisional patent application is hereby incorporated herein by reference, co-pending U.S. non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 10/605,870 of Gravina et al., titled “Controller and Removable User Interface (RUI) for Controlling Media Event,” filed Nov. 2, 2003, which non-provisional patent application is hereby incorporated herein by reference and which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) to U.S. provisional patent application 60/423,161 of Gravina, titled “SmartToys Multimedia Learning System,” filed Nov. 1, 2002; international patent application PCT/US2003/034989 of Gravina et al., titled “Controller and Removable User Interface (RUI) for Media Presentation,” filed under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) on Nov. 3, 2003, published in the English language as International Publication Number WO2004/042530A2, which international patent application is hereby incorporated herein by reference, and which is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 10/605,868 of Gravina et al., titled “Controller and Removable User Interface (RUI) for Media Presentation,” filed Nov. 1, 2003, and which international patent application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application 60/423,161 of Gravina, titled “SmartToys Multimedia Learning System,” filed Nov. 1, 2002, and furthermore, the present application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. 119 to each of U.S. provisional patent application 60/571,900 of Gravina et al., titled “Controller and Graphical User Interface (GUI) for Media Event,” filed May 17, 2004, which provisional patent application is hereby incorporated herein by reference, U.S. provisional patent application 60/571,706 of Gravina et al., titled “Controller and Peripheral User Interface (PUI) for Media Event,” filed May 17, 2004, which provisional patent application is hereby incorporated herein by reference, U.S. provisional patent application 60/571,746 of Gravina et al., titled “Controller having Conditional Programming Language for Media Event,” filed May 17, 2004, which provisional patent application is hereby incorporated herein by reference, U.S. provisional patent application 60/571,784 of Gravina et al., titled “Controller and User Interface (UI) for Media Event with User-Defined Instructions,” filed May 17, 2004, which provisional patent application is hereby incorporated herein by reference, U.S. provisional patent application 60/571,745 of Gravina et al., titled “Controller and User Interface (UI) for Multiple Media Events,” filed May 17, 2004, which provisional patent application is hereby incorporated herein by reference, U.S. provisional patent application 60/571,902 of Gravina et al., titled “Augmenting and Repurposing Media Content for Controller and User Interface (UI),” filed May 17, 2004, which provisional patent application is hereby incorporated herein by reference, and U.S. provisional patent application 60/571,750 of Gravina et al., titled “Controller and User Interface (UI) for Media Event with Accompanying Media Content,” filed May 17, 2004, which provisional patent application is hereby incorporated herein by reference, and furthermore, U.S. non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 10/710,814 of Gravina et al., titled “Controller and Removable User Interface (RUI) for Media Event and Additional Media Content,” filed Aug. 4, 2004, is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60423161 | Nov 2002 | US | |
| 60423161 | Nov 2002 | US | |
| 60423161 | Nov 2002 | US | |
| 60571900 | May 2004 | US | |
| 60571746 | May 2004 | US | |
| 60571784 | May 2004 | US | |
| 60571745 | May 2004 | US | |
| 60571902 | May 2004 | US | |
| 60571750 | May 2004 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 10605868 | Nov 2003 | US |
| Child | PCT/US03/34989 | Nov 2003 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 10605868 | Nov 2003 | US |
| Child | 10904039 | Oct 2004 | US |
| Parent | 10605870 | Nov 2003 | US |
| Child | 10904039 | Oct 2004 | US |
| Parent | PCT/US03/34989 | Nov 2003 | US |
| Child | 10904039 | Oct 2004 | US |
