Method and apparatus for remotely controlling a plurality of devices
First Claim
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1. A method utilizing a software program to control time spent utilizing a plurality of electronic entertainment devices, at least one of which is a television and a gaming console, the method comprising the steps of:
- accepting for input of an allotment of time;
monitoring a usage time of the plurality of electronic entertainment devices;
comparing the usage time to the allotment of time;
initiating a warning sequence when a total of the usage time of the plurality of electronic entertainment devices is approaching the allotment of time; and
switching at least one of the plurality of electronic entertainment devices off when the usage time is equal to or has exceeded the allotment of time.
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Abstract
Disclosed is a method for controlling usage times for at least one device, including the steps of: (a) identifying a device to be controlled; (b) utilizing the device by a user; (c) tracking a device usage value for the device as the user utilizes the device; and (d) initiating an action sequence based upon the device usage value. Also disclosed is an apparatus for controlling usage times for at least one device.
37 Citations
20 Claims
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1. A method utilizing a software program to control time spent utilizing a plurality of electronic entertainment devices, at least one of which is a television and a gaming console, the method comprising the steps of:
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accepting for input of an allotment of time;
monitoring a usage time of the plurality of electronic entertainment devices;
comparing the usage time to the allotment of time;
initiating a warning sequence when a total of the usage time of the plurality of electronic entertainment devices is approaching the allotment of time; and
switching at least one of the plurality of electronic entertainment devices off when the usage time is equal to or has exceeded the allotment of time. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12)
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13. An apparatus for managing an allotment of usage time as between a computer and a plurality of electronic entertainment devices, at least one of which is a television and a gaming console, the apparatus comprising:
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a controller, operated by software, which causes an on/off signal to be originated based on a comparison of the allotment of usage time to an actual usage time of the computer and the plurality of electronic entertainment devices;
a switch (microchip mechanism), activated by the on/off signal, for controlling an operational state of at least one of the computer and the plurality of electronic entertainment devices; and
a means for communicating the on/off signal between the controller and the switch, and wherein a warning sequence is initiated when a total of the actual usage time of the computer and the plurality of electronic entertainment devices is approaching the allotment of usage time. - View Dependent Claims (14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20)
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Specification