Environment friendly remote control

• US 20100052332A1
• Filed: 08/24/2009
• Published: 03/04/2010
• Est. Priority Date: 08/28/2008
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: Magnolia Licensing LLC (IP Edge LLC)
• Original Assignee: Thomson Licensing (Vantiva SA)
• Inventors: Menon, Vinod, Pang, Kim Suan
• Granted Patent: US 8,174,133 B2
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 290/1.A
• CPC Class Codes: G08C 17/02 using a radio link
• CPC Class Codes: G08C 23/04 using light waves, e.g. infrared

Abstract

A remote control is suggested, which comprises an electric signal transmitter being supplied with energy from an electrical energy storage device. The remote control comprises a generator for converting mechanical energy into electrical energy to be stored in the electrical energy storage device. The remote control is provided with a display indicating an empty electrical energy storage device. The display informs the user immediately and unambiguously about the situation that he has to recharge the energy storage of the remote control before he tries to send out a command in vain.

Claims

1. Remote control comprising an electric signal transmitter which is supplied with energy from an electrical energy storage device, further comprising a generator for converting mechanical energy into electrical energy to be stored in the electrical energy storage device, wherein the remote control is provided with a display indicating an empty electrical energy storage device, wherein the display includes an LCD display which is covered by a mask, and wherein the mask is tinted and provided with openings.

2. Remote control according to claim 1, wherein the activated LCD display conceals the openings in the mask.

3. Remote control according to claim 1, wherein the openings of the mask make an indication visible if the LCD display is not energised.

4. Remote control according to claim 1, wherein the electric signal transmitter transmits infrared light signals or radio frequency signals.