CA2048752C - Color-coded system for selection of rf input terminals and associated scan lists - Google Patents
Color-coded system for selection of rf input terminals and associated scan listsInfo
- Publication number
- CA2048752C CA2048752C CA002048752A CA2048752A CA2048752C CA 2048752 C CA2048752 C CA 2048752C CA 002048752 A CA002048752 A CA 002048752A CA 2048752 A CA2048752 A CA 2048752A CA 2048752 C CA2048752 C CA 2048752C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- input terminal
- signals
- signal
- selecting
- color
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
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Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N5/00—Details of television systems
- H04N5/44—Receiver circuitry for the reception of television signals according to analogue transmission standards
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H03—ELECTRONIC CIRCUITRY
- H03J—TUNING RESONANT CIRCUITS; SELECTING RESONANT CIRCUITS
- H03J1/00—Details of adjusting, driving, indicating, or mechanical control arrangements for resonant circuits in general
- H03J1/0008—Details of adjusting, driving, indicating, or mechanical control arrangements for resonant circuits in general using a central processing unit, e.g. a microprocessor
- H03J1/0091—Details of adjusting, driving, indicating, or mechanical control arrangements for resonant circuits in general using a central processing unit, e.g. a microprocessor provided with means for scanning over a band of frequencies
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
- H04N21/422—Input-only peripherals, i.e. input devices connected to specially adapted client devices, e.g. global positioning system [GPS]
- H04N21/42204—User interfaces specially adapted for controlling a client device through a remote control device; Remote control devices therefor
- H04N21/42206—User interfaces specially adapted for controlling a client device through a remote control device; Remote control devices therefor characterized by hardware details
- H04N21/4221—Dedicated function buttons, e.g. for the control of an EPG, subtitles, aspect ratio, picture-in-picture or teletext
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/41—Structure of client; Structure of client peripherals
- H04N21/426—Internal components of the client ; Characteristics thereof
- H04N21/42607—Internal components of the client ; Characteristics thereof for processing the incoming bitstream
- H04N21/4263—Internal components of the client ; Characteristics thereof for processing the incoming bitstream involving specific tuning arrangements, e.g. two tuners
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/40—Client devices specifically adapted for the reception of or interaction with content, e.g. set-top-box [STB]; Operations thereof
- H04N21/47—End-user applications
- H04N21/482—End-user interface for program selection
Abstract
In a television receiver including a plurality of RF input terminals, each of which having a respective scan list, the channel numbers of respective scan lists are displayed in respective colors to indicate to the viewer which RF input terminal and associated scan list is selected. In one embodiment of the invention, the RF input terminals and the antenna selection keys of a user-operable keyboard are color-coded to correspond to the color-coded channel numbers.
Description
8 7 S ~ RCA 86,125 -COLOR-CODED SYSTEM FOR SELECTION OF RF INPUT
TERMINALS AND ASSOCIATED SCAN LISTS
Field of the Invention The subject appli~tion concerns the field of television receivers having memory circuitry for storing lists of prefer,ed television channels, and in particular, for storing multiple lists, wherein each list relates to a respective one of a plurality of RF signal sources.
The subject application is related to U.S. patent applications bearing attorney's docket numbers RCA 85,561 (now U.S. patent No.
5,182,646 issued January 26, 1996) and RCA 86,115 (now U.S. patent No.
5,161,023 issued November 3, 1992), and assigned to the same assignee as the present invention.
Background of the Invention Numerous radio frequency (RF) signal sources are currently available for supplying television signals to a user's television receiver. These RF signal sources include, an ultra-high frequency (UHF) antenna, a very-high 20 frequency (VHF) antenna, video games, home computers, cable television systems, videocassette recorders, videodisc players, and ~VRO (television receive-only) satellite television receivers.
Many modern television receivers are equipped with multiple RF
signal input connectors, and have the capability of receiving video signals from25 two different RF signal sources. A television receiver with two RF signal input terminals eliminates repeated plugging-in and unplugging of cables which would otherwise be necessary when changing from one signal source to another.
Systems which allow a user to enter a list of preferred channels 30 (i.e., a scan list) of those channels which are receivable via an RF input terminal, are known. Such scan lists include information as to whether or not - a 2 al ~S 8 7 S Z~
the desired channel is an "AIR" channel or a "CABLE" channel, infor",ation concerning the tuning it is to be found, or search through the channels of both scan lists. Searching through the scan lists requires that the user scan throughthe channels by use of the "channel up" or ~channel down" keys until the above-mentioned ~wrap-around" of the scan list occurs. This ensures that the user has seen all of the channels of a first scan list before seleuling another RF
input and scanning through its related scan list for the desi,ed chal)"el.
Unfortunately, this method of operation also causes the viewer to see at least one of the channels of the first scan list, a second time in order to be sure that he has indeed seen all of the channels in the first list.
U.S. patent application serial number (RCA 85,561, U.S. Patent No. 5,182,646 issued January 26, 1993, Keenan) discloses a solution to the above noted problems in that the scan lists associated with each RF input terminal are capable of being linked together so that a user may scan through all channels on all scan lists in sequence, with the proper RF input terminal being automatically selected when the system aulo,-,dlically advances from one scan list to another. It is desirable that the user be informed of which scan list (i.e., which RF input terminal) is currently selected. The above -mentionedRCA CTC-133 color television chassis provides an on-screen display including channel number, and a message A1, A2, or A3 to indicate which RF input terminal is selected. It is felt, however, that such a two line display may be objectionable to some viewers who may feel that it clutters the display screen.
- SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In a television receiver including a plurality of RF input terminals, each of which having a respective scan list, the channel numbers of respective scan lists are displayed in respective colors to indicate to the viewer which RFinput terminal and associated scan list is selected. In one embodiment of the invention, the RF input terminals and the antenna selection keys of a user-operable keyboard are color-coded to correspond to the color-coded channel numbers.
A
TERMINALS AND ASSOCIATED SCAN LISTS
Field of the Invention The subject appli~tion concerns the field of television receivers having memory circuitry for storing lists of prefer,ed television channels, and in particular, for storing multiple lists, wherein each list relates to a respective one of a plurality of RF signal sources.
The subject application is related to U.S. patent applications bearing attorney's docket numbers RCA 85,561 (now U.S. patent No.
5,182,646 issued January 26, 1996) and RCA 86,115 (now U.S. patent No.
5,161,023 issued November 3, 1992), and assigned to the same assignee as the present invention.
Background of the Invention Numerous radio frequency (RF) signal sources are currently available for supplying television signals to a user's television receiver. These RF signal sources include, an ultra-high frequency (UHF) antenna, a very-high 20 frequency (VHF) antenna, video games, home computers, cable television systems, videocassette recorders, videodisc players, and ~VRO (television receive-only) satellite television receivers.
Many modern television receivers are equipped with multiple RF
signal input connectors, and have the capability of receiving video signals from25 two different RF signal sources. A television receiver with two RF signal input terminals eliminates repeated plugging-in and unplugging of cables which would otherwise be necessary when changing from one signal source to another.
Systems which allow a user to enter a list of preferred channels 30 (i.e., a scan list) of those channels which are receivable via an RF input terminal, are known. Such scan lists include information as to whether or not - a 2 al ~S 8 7 S Z~
the desired channel is an "AIR" channel or a "CABLE" channel, infor",ation concerning the tuning it is to be found, or search through the channels of both scan lists. Searching through the scan lists requires that the user scan throughthe channels by use of the "channel up" or ~channel down" keys until the above-mentioned ~wrap-around" of the scan list occurs. This ensures that the user has seen all of the channels of a first scan list before seleuling another RF
input and scanning through its related scan list for the desi,ed chal)"el.
Unfortunately, this method of operation also causes the viewer to see at least one of the channels of the first scan list, a second time in order to be sure that he has indeed seen all of the channels in the first list.
U.S. patent application serial number (RCA 85,561, U.S. Patent No. 5,182,646 issued January 26, 1993, Keenan) discloses a solution to the above noted problems in that the scan lists associated with each RF input terminal are capable of being linked together so that a user may scan through all channels on all scan lists in sequence, with the proper RF input terminal being automatically selected when the system aulo,-,dlically advances from one scan list to another. It is desirable that the user be informed of which scan list (i.e., which RF input terminal) is currently selected. The above -mentionedRCA CTC-133 color television chassis provides an on-screen display including channel number, and a message A1, A2, or A3 to indicate which RF input terminal is selected. It is felt, however, that such a two line display may be objectionable to some viewers who may feel that it clutters the display screen.
- SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In a television receiver including a plurality of RF input terminals, each of which having a respective scan list, the channel numbers of respective scan lists are displayed in respective colors to indicate to the viewer which RFinput terminal and associated scan list is selected. In one embodiment of the invention, the RF input terminals and the antenna selection keys of a user-operable keyboard are color-coded to correspond to the color-coded channel numbers.
A
2 0 4 8 7 5 2 RCA 86, 125 it is to be found, or search through the channels of both scan lists.
Searching through the scan lists requires that the user scan through the channels by use of the "channel up" or "channel down" keys until the above-mentioned "wrap-around" of the scan list occurs. This ensures that the user has seen all of the channels of a first scan list before selecting another RF input and sc~nning through its related scan list for the desired channel.
Unfortunately, this method of operation also causes the viewer to see at least one of the channels of the first scan list, a second time 10 in order to be sure that he has indeed seen all of the channels in the first list.
Copending U.S. patent application serial number (RCA
85,561) (Keenan) discloses a solution to the above noted problems in that the scan lists associated with each RF input terminal are 15 capable of being linked together so that a user may scan through all channels on all scan lists in sequence, with the proper RF input terminal being automatically selected when the system automatically advances from one scan list to another. It is desirable that the user be informed of which scan list (i.e., which 2 0 RF input terminal) is currently selected. The above -mentioned RCA CTC-133 color television chassis provides an on-screen display including channel number, and a message A 1, A2, or A3 to indicate which RF input terminal is selected. It is felt, however, that such a two line display may be objectionable to some viewers 2 5 who may feel that it clutters the display screen.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In a television receiver including a plurality of RF
input terminals, each of which having a respective scan list, the 30 channel numbers of respective scan lists are displayed in respective colors to indicate to the viewer which RF input terminal and associated scan list is selected. In one embodiment of the invention, the RF input terminals and the antenna selection keys of a user-operable keyboard are color-coded to correspond to the 3 5 color-coded channel numbers.
2 0 4 ~ 7 ~ 2 RCA 86, 125 BREF DESCRIPT~ON OF THE DRAW~G
FIGURE 1 shows, in block diagram form, a television receiver incorporating the subject invention.
FIGURES 2 and 2A show keyboards suitable for use with the remote control handunit of FIGURE 1.
FIGURE 3 shows an arrangement of memory locations for storing scan lists, as known from the prior art.
FIGURE 4 shows an arrangement of memory locations 1 0 for storing scan lists, in accordance with the subject invention.
FIGURE 5 is a flowchart showing a portion of the control program of the controller of FIGURE 1.
FIGURE 6 is an illustration showing a display screen menu produced in accordance with the invention.
1 5 FIGURES 7 and 8 are illustrations showing screen displays having channel numbers displayed in different respective colors, in accordance with an aspect of the invention.
FIGURE 9 shows an arrangement of RF input terminals according to one aspect of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPI'ION OF THE EMBODIMENT
Referring to FIGURE 1, radio frequency (RF) signals are applied to RF input terminals A, B, and C of RF switch 100.
Under control of a control signal applied via wire 101, RF switch 100 selects one of inputs A, B, and C to supply one or more RF
signals to a tuner assembly 102. Tuner assembly 102 selects a particular RF signal under control of a tuner control unit 104 which applies a tuning control signal to tuner assembly 102 via a 3 0 wire 103, and applies bandswitching signals via a control bus 103'. Tuner control unit 104 is controlled by a controller 110.
Controller 110, which may be a microprocessor or microcomputer, includes a central processing unit (CPU) 112, a read-only memory (ROM) 114, and a random access memory 116. Controller 110 generates the above-mentioned control signal for RF switch 100 for selecting an RF input for tuner 102.
Controller 110 receives user-entered control signals from a local keyboard 120 and from an infrared (IR) receiver 122. IR
2 0 4 8 7 ~ ~ RCA 86, 125 receiver 122 receives and decodes remote control signals transmitted by a remote control unit 125.
Tuner 102 produces a signal at an intermediate frequency (IF) and applies it to a processing unit 130 comprising 5 a video IF (VIF) amplifying stage, an AFT circuit, a video detector, and a sound IF (SIF) amplifying stage. Processing unit 130 produces a baseband composite video signal (TV), and a sound carrier signal. The sound carrier signal is applied to an audio signal processor unit 135 which includes an audio detector l 0 and a stereo decoder. Audio signal processor unit 135 produces baseband left and right audio signals and applies them a pair of speakers 138 for sound reproduction.
The baseband video signal (TV) is coupled to a video processor unit 155 and a kine driver amplifier 156, and 1 5 ultimately displayed on a display screen of a display device 158.
Video signals are also applied to a sync separator unit 160 which derives vertical and horizontal synchronizing signals therefrom.
The derived vertical and horizontal signals are applied to a deflection unit 170 for the production of deflection signals for 20 application to the yoke assembly of display device 158. Under control of controller 110, an on-screen display processor 140 generates character signals, and applies them to a second input of video signal processor 155, for display on display device 158.
The circuitry described thus far is known from the above-25 mentioned RCA CTC-133 color television chassis.
Turning to FIGURE 2, a keyboard 200 suitable for use on remote control unit 125 of FIGURE 1, includes a VOLUME DOWN
key 210, a VOLUME UP key 220, an ON/OFF key 230, a CHANNEL
DOWN key 240, a CHANNEL UP key 250, a MENU - key 260, a 3 0 MENU + key 270, an array of numbered keys generally designated 280, and a group of ANTENNA SELECT keys 275, 285, and 295.
Specific use of keys of keyboard 200 will be described in detail below.
As noted above, the RCA CTC-133 color television 35 chassis includes three RF input connectors, each having a respective scan list associated with it. For purposes of explanation, these scan lists can be thought of as being arranged in memory (i.e., RAM 116) as shown in FIGURE 3. Each scan list is 2 0 4 8 7 5 ~ RCA 86, 125 independent of the others. Each scan list has its own pointer, which upon reaching the bottom of the scan list while scanning down, "wraps around" to the top, and which upon reaching the top of the scan list while scanning up, "wraps around" to the bottom.
For simplicity, scan lists 315, 325, and 335 are shown as including 32 (i.e., A0-A31) memory locations each. Also for simplicity, the "wrap around" arrows are shown extending between locations A0 and A31. In fact, a scan list having only three locations filled would "wrap around" between location A2 (i.e., the third location in the list) and location A0. That is, the logical end of the scan list is not necessarily the same memory location as the physical end of the scan list. Note that in the prior art system of FIGURE 3, a user must first select the scan list containing the desired channel information, and then conduct a search for the desired channel. A
problem occurs in this system when the user cannot remember which scan list is the proper one to select for searching.
The scan lists of the present invention can be arranged as shown in FIGURE 3, or rearranged as shown in FIGURE 4, by means of a user-entered command. Each scan list of FIGURE 4 is linked with the others. The linked scan list has its own pointer, which upon reaching the bottom of the linked scan list while scanning down, "wraps around" to the top, and which upon reaching the top of the linked scan list while scanning up, "wraps around" to the bottom. As noted above, for simplicity, scan lists 2 5 415, 425, and 435 are shown as including 32 (i.e., A0-A31) memory locations each. Also for simplicity, the "wrap around"
arrows are shown extending between locations A0 and A3 1. As was true in FIGURE 3, a scan list having only three locations filled would "wrap around" between location A2 (i.e., the third location 3 0 in the list) and location A0. That is, the logical end of the scan list is not necessarily the same memory location as the physical end of the scan list. Note that unlike the prior art system of FIGURE 3, a user can scan through all three lists in sequence automatically to find a desired channel. Note that the act of switching from one list 3 5 to another also causes the selection of a new RF input connector, because each scan list, even though linked, remains associated with a respective RF input connector. Similarly, the act of selecting a new RF input terminal by pressing one of ANTENNA
2 0 4 8 7 S 2 RCA 86, 125 SELECT keys 275, 285 or 295, also selects the aypro~,iate scan list for that RF terminal.
A portion of the control program for controller 110, for controlling a channel scanning operation, is illustrated in the 5 flowchart of FIGURE 5. For purposes of this explanation, it is assumed that the desired channel information has previously been programmed into the scan lists, in the usual manner. The program is entered at step 500 upon reception of a keyboard, or remote control, CHANNEL UP or CHANNEL DOWN comm~n~. At 10 step 515, a decision is made as to whether or not the received command is a CHANNEL UP command. If the comm?nd is a CHANNEL UP command, then the program checks to see if the pointer is at the top of the currently-accessed scan list (step 520).
If not, then the pointer is incremented to get the information for 15 tuning the next channel in the scan list (steps 523 and 525), and the routine is exited at step 530. However, if the pointer was at the top of the scan list (step 520), then a check is made to see if the scan lists are linked, by reading a memory location which holds that information (step 535). If the lists are not linked, then 20 they are arranged as shown in FIGURE 3, and a wrap-around to the bottom of the currently-aGcessed scan list is desired. In that case, the NO path is followed to step 540 in which the pointer is pointed to the bottom of the list and information for tuning the last value in the list is read. The program is then exited at step 25 530'. However, if the lists are linked, then the scan lists are arranged as shown in FIGURE 4, and the tuning of the bottom value in an adjacent scan list is desired. In that case, the YES path is taken to step 545 where a determination is made as to whether or not the current list is Scan List C.. If yes, then the current list is 30 becomes Scan List B (step 550), and the bottom channel in that scan list is tuned (steps 540 and 530'). If the current list is not C, then a check is made to see if the current list is Scan List B (step 555). If yes, then the current list becomes Scan List A (step 560), and the bottom channel in that scan list is tuned (steps 540 and 3 5 530'). If the current scan list is not Scan List C or B, then it must be Scan List A. Thus the NO path is taken to step 565, wherein the current list becomes Scan List C, thereby causing a wrap-around from the top of Scan List A to the bottom of Scan List C.
2 0 ~ 8 7 5 2 RCA 8 6 , 1 2 5 The bottom channel of Scan List C is then tuned (steps 540 and 530').
Returning to step 515, if the received command is not a CHANNEL UP cG.,-,-,and, then it must be a CHANNEL DOWN
command. In that case, the NO path is taken to step 570 wherein a determination is made as to whether or not the pointer is pointing to the bottom entry in the currently-accessed scan list. If not, then the pointer is decremented to get the information for tuning the next channel in the scan list (steps 573 and 525), and 10 the routine is exited at step 530. However, if the pointer was at the top of the scan list (step 570), then a check is made to see if the scan lists are linked, by reading a memory location which holds that information (step 575). If the lists are not linked, then they are arranged as shown in FIGURE 3, and a wrap-around to 15 the top of the currently-accessed scan list is desired. In that case, the NO path is followed to step 580 in which the pointer is pointed to the top of the current list and information for tuning the last value in the list is read. The program is then exited at step 530".
However, if the lists are linked, then the scan lists are arranged as 20 shown in FIGURE 4, and the tuning of the top value in an adjacent scan list is desired. In that case, the YES path is taken to step 585 where a determination is made as to whether or not the current list is Scan List A.. If yes, then the current list is becomes Scan List B (step 590), and the bottom channel in that scan list is tuned 25 (steps 580 and 530"). If the current list is not A, then a check is made to see if the current list is Scan List B (step 595). If yes, then the current list becomes Scan List C (step 597), and the bottom channel in that scan list is tuned (steps 580 and 530"). If the CU~ t scan list is not Scan List A or B, then it must be Scan 3 0 List C. Thus the NO path is taken to step 599, wherein the current list becomes Scan List A, thereby causing a wrap-around from the bottom of Scan List C to the top of Scan List A. The top channel of Scan List A is then tuned (steps 580 and 530").
FIGURE 6 shows a television receiver 600 having a 3 5 display screen 610 displaying a portion of a menu indicating the linked state of the scan lists (i.e., either YES or NO). The scan lists are linkable and llnlink~ble at the command of the viewer under control of controller 110. Pressing the MENU + key 270 of 2 0 4 ~ 7~ ~ RCA 86, 125 , keyboard 200 causes the scan lists to become linked, and the display of FIGURE 6 to indicate YES. Pressing the MENU - key 260 of keyboard 200 causes the lists to be llnlinke~ (i.e., to be separate), and causes the display of FIGURE 6 to indicate NO.
FIGURE 7 and 8, taken together, show the effect of sc~nning from the top of one scan list into the bottom of another (or vice-versa). FIGURE 7 shows a television receiver 700 having a display screen 710 displaying a television program received on channel 58. For purposes of explanation, assume that the scan lists are linked, and that the tuning information for channel 58 is contained in the top address of a currently-accessed scan list, associated with a first RF input terminal. Assume also, that the tuning information for channel 08 is contained in the bottom location of an adjacent scan list, associated with a different RF
input terminal. Pressing CHANNEL UP key 250 of keyboard 200 causes, as described above, the retrieval of the tuning information for the television channel stored in bottom memory location of an adjacent scan list, and the automatic selection of the corresponding RF input terminal. Thus, the result of pressing CHANNEL UP key 250, in the current example, is the display of a television program on channel 08, as shown in FIGURE 8, supplied via a different RF input terminal than was the signal for previously-tuned channel 58.
Note that channel number 58 is shaded with diagonal lines to indicate the color green, and that channel number 08 is shaded with horizontal lines to indicate the color blue. It is desirable to inform the viewer as to which RF input terminal is the source of the currently-tuned channel. Previously, this was done by adding an on-screen message such as Al or A2 (or ANT A
3 0 or ANT B) to the channel number display. It is herein recognized that a uncluttered, simplified display of channel number can be provided by color-coding the channel number to indicate the particular RF input terminal in use. It is felt that an on-screen display of "green 58" (i.e., a green-colored channel 58 indication) 3 5 is a channel number and RF input terminal display which is easier for the user to recognize and remember, than is an on-screen display of "58 A1".
2 0 4 ~ 7 5 2 RCA 86, 125 It is further recognized that connection of RF sources tO the television receiver can also be simplified (i.e., made less confusing) by color-coding the area surrounding the RF input termin~ls to match the colors produced in the channel number 5 display when that RF input terminal is selected. That is, channel numbers displayed in blue are received via the RF input terminal surrounded by a blue color. Such an arrangement of terminals 900 is shown in FIGURE 9, wherein a panel 905 includes an area 910 sh 1ed with diagonal lines to indicate the color green, an area l 0 920 shaded with horizontal lines to indicate the color blue, and an area 930 shaded with vertical lines to indicate the color red.
It is also herein recognized that in a system with color-coded RF input termin~ls and color-coded channel number displays, a clear indication of which inputs are available for 1 5 selection is provided by color-coding the ANTENNA SELECT keys to correspond to the color-coded RF input terminals. Such an arrangement of color-coded keys is shown in FIGURE 2A, wherein elements bearing similar reference numerals to elements of FIGURE 2, serve a similar function. In FIGURE 2A, key 275a is 20 shaded with diagonal lines to indicate the color green, key 285a is shaded with horizontal lines to indicate the color blue, and key 295a is shaded with vertical lines to indicate the color red. It is felt that such a color-coded antenna selection system provides an easy to use system which reduces user confusion as to which 2 5 video source is currently supplying signals to the television receiver.
The term television receiver, as used herein, includes television receivers having a video display device (commonly known as television sets) and television receivers without a video 30 display device, such as VCRs.
Searching through the scan lists requires that the user scan through the channels by use of the "channel up" or "channel down" keys until the above-mentioned "wrap-around" of the scan list occurs. This ensures that the user has seen all of the channels of a first scan list before selecting another RF input and sc~nning through its related scan list for the desired channel.
Unfortunately, this method of operation also causes the viewer to see at least one of the channels of the first scan list, a second time 10 in order to be sure that he has indeed seen all of the channels in the first list.
Copending U.S. patent application serial number (RCA
85,561) (Keenan) discloses a solution to the above noted problems in that the scan lists associated with each RF input terminal are 15 capable of being linked together so that a user may scan through all channels on all scan lists in sequence, with the proper RF input terminal being automatically selected when the system automatically advances from one scan list to another. It is desirable that the user be informed of which scan list (i.e., which 2 0 RF input terminal) is currently selected. The above -mentioned RCA CTC-133 color television chassis provides an on-screen display including channel number, and a message A 1, A2, or A3 to indicate which RF input terminal is selected. It is felt, however, that such a two line display may be objectionable to some viewers 2 5 who may feel that it clutters the display screen.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In a television receiver including a plurality of RF
input terminals, each of which having a respective scan list, the 30 channel numbers of respective scan lists are displayed in respective colors to indicate to the viewer which RF input terminal and associated scan list is selected. In one embodiment of the invention, the RF input terminals and the antenna selection keys of a user-operable keyboard are color-coded to correspond to the 3 5 color-coded channel numbers.
2 0 4 ~ 7 ~ 2 RCA 86, 125 BREF DESCRIPT~ON OF THE DRAW~G
FIGURE 1 shows, in block diagram form, a television receiver incorporating the subject invention.
FIGURES 2 and 2A show keyboards suitable for use with the remote control handunit of FIGURE 1.
FIGURE 3 shows an arrangement of memory locations for storing scan lists, as known from the prior art.
FIGURE 4 shows an arrangement of memory locations 1 0 for storing scan lists, in accordance with the subject invention.
FIGURE 5 is a flowchart showing a portion of the control program of the controller of FIGURE 1.
FIGURE 6 is an illustration showing a display screen menu produced in accordance with the invention.
1 5 FIGURES 7 and 8 are illustrations showing screen displays having channel numbers displayed in different respective colors, in accordance with an aspect of the invention.
FIGURE 9 shows an arrangement of RF input terminals according to one aspect of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPI'ION OF THE EMBODIMENT
Referring to FIGURE 1, radio frequency (RF) signals are applied to RF input terminals A, B, and C of RF switch 100.
Under control of a control signal applied via wire 101, RF switch 100 selects one of inputs A, B, and C to supply one or more RF
signals to a tuner assembly 102. Tuner assembly 102 selects a particular RF signal under control of a tuner control unit 104 which applies a tuning control signal to tuner assembly 102 via a 3 0 wire 103, and applies bandswitching signals via a control bus 103'. Tuner control unit 104 is controlled by a controller 110.
Controller 110, which may be a microprocessor or microcomputer, includes a central processing unit (CPU) 112, a read-only memory (ROM) 114, and a random access memory 116. Controller 110 generates the above-mentioned control signal for RF switch 100 for selecting an RF input for tuner 102.
Controller 110 receives user-entered control signals from a local keyboard 120 and from an infrared (IR) receiver 122. IR
2 0 4 8 7 ~ ~ RCA 86, 125 receiver 122 receives and decodes remote control signals transmitted by a remote control unit 125.
Tuner 102 produces a signal at an intermediate frequency (IF) and applies it to a processing unit 130 comprising 5 a video IF (VIF) amplifying stage, an AFT circuit, a video detector, and a sound IF (SIF) amplifying stage. Processing unit 130 produces a baseband composite video signal (TV), and a sound carrier signal. The sound carrier signal is applied to an audio signal processor unit 135 which includes an audio detector l 0 and a stereo decoder. Audio signal processor unit 135 produces baseband left and right audio signals and applies them a pair of speakers 138 for sound reproduction.
The baseband video signal (TV) is coupled to a video processor unit 155 and a kine driver amplifier 156, and 1 5 ultimately displayed on a display screen of a display device 158.
Video signals are also applied to a sync separator unit 160 which derives vertical and horizontal synchronizing signals therefrom.
The derived vertical and horizontal signals are applied to a deflection unit 170 for the production of deflection signals for 20 application to the yoke assembly of display device 158. Under control of controller 110, an on-screen display processor 140 generates character signals, and applies them to a second input of video signal processor 155, for display on display device 158.
The circuitry described thus far is known from the above-25 mentioned RCA CTC-133 color television chassis.
Turning to FIGURE 2, a keyboard 200 suitable for use on remote control unit 125 of FIGURE 1, includes a VOLUME DOWN
key 210, a VOLUME UP key 220, an ON/OFF key 230, a CHANNEL
DOWN key 240, a CHANNEL UP key 250, a MENU - key 260, a 3 0 MENU + key 270, an array of numbered keys generally designated 280, and a group of ANTENNA SELECT keys 275, 285, and 295.
Specific use of keys of keyboard 200 will be described in detail below.
As noted above, the RCA CTC-133 color television 35 chassis includes three RF input connectors, each having a respective scan list associated with it. For purposes of explanation, these scan lists can be thought of as being arranged in memory (i.e., RAM 116) as shown in FIGURE 3. Each scan list is 2 0 4 8 7 5 ~ RCA 86, 125 independent of the others. Each scan list has its own pointer, which upon reaching the bottom of the scan list while scanning down, "wraps around" to the top, and which upon reaching the top of the scan list while scanning up, "wraps around" to the bottom.
For simplicity, scan lists 315, 325, and 335 are shown as including 32 (i.e., A0-A31) memory locations each. Also for simplicity, the "wrap around" arrows are shown extending between locations A0 and A31. In fact, a scan list having only three locations filled would "wrap around" between location A2 (i.e., the third location in the list) and location A0. That is, the logical end of the scan list is not necessarily the same memory location as the physical end of the scan list. Note that in the prior art system of FIGURE 3, a user must first select the scan list containing the desired channel information, and then conduct a search for the desired channel. A
problem occurs in this system when the user cannot remember which scan list is the proper one to select for searching.
The scan lists of the present invention can be arranged as shown in FIGURE 3, or rearranged as shown in FIGURE 4, by means of a user-entered command. Each scan list of FIGURE 4 is linked with the others. The linked scan list has its own pointer, which upon reaching the bottom of the linked scan list while scanning down, "wraps around" to the top, and which upon reaching the top of the linked scan list while scanning up, "wraps around" to the bottom. As noted above, for simplicity, scan lists 2 5 415, 425, and 435 are shown as including 32 (i.e., A0-A31) memory locations each. Also for simplicity, the "wrap around"
arrows are shown extending between locations A0 and A3 1. As was true in FIGURE 3, a scan list having only three locations filled would "wrap around" between location A2 (i.e., the third location 3 0 in the list) and location A0. That is, the logical end of the scan list is not necessarily the same memory location as the physical end of the scan list. Note that unlike the prior art system of FIGURE 3, a user can scan through all three lists in sequence automatically to find a desired channel. Note that the act of switching from one list 3 5 to another also causes the selection of a new RF input connector, because each scan list, even though linked, remains associated with a respective RF input connector. Similarly, the act of selecting a new RF input terminal by pressing one of ANTENNA
2 0 4 8 7 S 2 RCA 86, 125 SELECT keys 275, 285 or 295, also selects the aypro~,iate scan list for that RF terminal.
A portion of the control program for controller 110, for controlling a channel scanning operation, is illustrated in the 5 flowchart of FIGURE 5. For purposes of this explanation, it is assumed that the desired channel information has previously been programmed into the scan lists, in the usual manner. The program is entered at step 500 upon reception of a keyboard, or remote control, CHANNEL UP or CHANNEL DOWN comm~n~. At 10 step 515, a decision is made as to whether or not the received command is a CHANNEL UP command. If the comm?nd is a CHANNEL UP command, then the program checks to see if the pointer is at the top of the currently-accessed scan list (step 520).
If not, then the pointer is incremented to get the information for 15 tuning the next channel in the scan list (steps 523 and 525), and the routine is exited at step 530. However, if the pointer was at the top of the scan list (step 520), then a check is made to see if the scan lists are linked, by reading a memory location which holds that information (step 535). If the lists are not linked, then 20 they are arranged as shown in FIGURE 3, and a wrap-around to the bottom of the currently-aGcessed scan list is desired. In that case, the NO path is followed to step 540 in which the pointer is pointed to the bottom of the list and information for tuning the last value in the list is read. The program is then exited at step 25 530'. However, if the lists are linked, then the scan lists are arranged as shown in FIGURE 4, and the tuning of the bottom value in an adjacent scan list is desired. In that case, the YES path is taken to step 545 where a determination is made as to whether or not the current list is Scan List C.. If yes, then the current list is 30 becomes Scan List B (step 550), and the bottom channel in that scan list is tuned (steps 540 and 530'). If the current list is not C, then a check is made to see if the current list is Scan List B (step 555). If yes, then the current list becomes Scan List A (step 560), and the bottom channel in that scan list is tuned (steps 540 and 3 5 530'). If the current scan list is not Scan List C or B, then it must be Scan List A. Thus the NO path is taken to step 565, wherein the current list becomes Scan List C, thereby causing a wrap-around from the top of Scan List A to the bottom of Scan List C.
2 0 ~ 8 7 5 2 RCA 8 6 , 1 2 5 The bottom channel of Scan List C is then tuned (steps 540 and 530').
Returning to step 515, if the received command is not a CHANNEL UP cG.,-,-,and, then it must be a CHANNEL DOWN
command. In that case, the NO path is taken to step 570 wherein a determination is made as to whether or not the pointer is pointing to the bottom entry in the currently-accessed scan list. If not, then the pointer is decremented to get the information for tuning the next channel in the scan list (steps 573 and 525), and 10 the routine is exited at step 530. However, if the pointer was at the top of the scan list (step 570), then a check is made to see if the scan lists are linked, by reading a memory location which holds that information (step 575). If the lists are not linked, then they are arranged as shown in FIGURE 3, and a wrap-around to 15 the top of the currently-accessed scan list is desired. In that case, the NO path is followed to step 580 in which the pointer is pointed to the top of the current list and information for tuning the last value in the list is read. The program is then exited at step 530".
However, if the lists are linked, then the scan lists are arranged as 20 shown in FIGURE 4, and the tuning of the top value in an adjacent scan list is desired. In that case, the YES path is taken to step 585 where a determination is made as to whether or not the current list is Scan List A.. If yes, then the current list is becomes Scan List B (step 590), and the bottom channel in that scan list is tuned 25 (steps 580 and 530"). If the current list is not A, then a check is made to see if the current list is Scan List B (step 595). If yes, then the current list becomes Scan List C (step 597), and the bottom channel in that scan list is tuned (steps 580 and 530"). If the CU~ t scan list is not Scan List A or B, then it must be Scan 3 0 List C. Thus the NO path is taken to step 599, wherein the current list becomes Scan List A, thereby causing a wrap-around from the bottom of Scan List C to the top of Scan List A. The top channel of Scan List A is then tuned (steps 580 and 530").
FIGURE 6 shows a television receiver 600 having a 3 5 display screen 610 displaying a portion of a menu indicating the linked state of the scan lists (i.e., either YES or NO). The scan lists are linkable and llnlink~ble at the command of the viewer under control of controller 110. Pressing the MENU + key 270 of 2 0 4 ~ 7~ ~ RCA 86, 125 , keyboard 200 causes the scan lists to become linked, and the display of FIGURE 6 to indicate YES. Pressing the MENU - key 260 of keyboard 200 causes the lists to be llnlinke~ (i.e., to be separate), and causes the display of FIGURE 6 to indicate NO.
FIGURE 7 and 8, taken together, show the effect of sc~nning from the top of one scan list into the bottom of another (or vice-versa). FIGURE 7 shows a television receiver 700 having a display screen 710 displaying a television program received on channel 58. For purposes of explanation, assume that the scan lists are linked, and that the tuning information for channel 58 is contained in the top address of a currently-accessed scan list, associated with a first RF input terminal. Assume also, that the tuning information for channel 08 is contained in the bottom location of an adjacent scan list, associated with a different RF
input terminal. Pressing CHANNEL UP key 250 of keyboard 200 causes, as described above, the retrieval of the tuning information for the television channel stored in bottom memory location of an adjacent scan list, and the automatic selection of the corresponding RF input terminal. Thus, the result of pressing CHANNEL UP key 250, in the current example, is the display of a television program on channel 08, as shown in FIGURE 8, supplied via a different RF input terminal than was the signal for previously-tuned channel 58.
Note that channel number 58 is shaded with diagonal lines to indicate the color green, and that channel number 08 is shaded with horizontal lines to indicate the color blue. It is desirable to inform the viewer as to which RF input terminal is the source of the currently-tuned channel. Previously, this was done by adding an on-screen message such as Al or A2 (or ANT A
3 0 or ANT B) to the channel number display. It is herein recognized that a uncluttered, simplified display of channel number can be provided by color-coding the channel number to indicate the particular RF input terminal in use. It is felt that an on-screen display of "green 58" (i.e., a green-colored channel 58 indication) 3 5 is a channel number and RF input terminal display which is easier for the user to recognize and remember, than is an on-screen display of "58 A1".
2 0 4 ~ 7 5 2 RCA 86, 125 It is further recognized that connection of RF sources tO the television receiver can also be simplified (i.e., made less confusing) by color-coding the area surrounding the RF input termin~ls to match the colors produced in the channel number 5 display when that RF input terminal is selected. That is, channel numbers displayed in blue are received via the RF input terminal surrounded by a blue color. Such an arrangement of terminals 900 is shown in FIGURE 9, wherein a panel 905 includes an area 910 sh 1ed with diagonal lines to indicate the color green, an area l 0 920 shaded with horizontal lines to indicate the color blue, and an area 930 shaded with vertical lines to indicate the color red.
It is also herein recognized that in a system with color-coded RF input termin~ls and color-coded channel number displays, a clear indication of which inputs are available for 1 5 selection is provided by color-coding the ANTENNA SELECT keys to correspond to the color-coded RF input terminals. Such an arrangement of color-coded keys is shown in FIGURE 2A, wherein elements bearing similar reference numerals to elements of FIGURE 2, serve a similar function. In FIGURE 2A, key 275a is 20 shaded with diagonal lines to indicate the color green, key 285a is shaded with horizontal lines to indicate the color blue, and key 295a is shaded with vertical lines to indicate the color red. It is felt that such a color-coded antenna selection system provides an easy to use system which reduces user confusion as to which 2 5 video source is currently supplying signals to the television receiver.
The term television receiver, as used herein, includes television receivers having a video display device (commonly known as television sets) and television receivers without a video 30 display device, such as VCRs.
Claims (8)
1. A television receiver, comprising:
a plurality of radio frequency (RF) signal input terminals, each of which receives a group of RF signals from respective RF signal sources;
RF switch means having a plurality of inputs, each of which is connected to a respective one of said RF input terminals, said RF switch means having an output at which is developed one of said groups of RF
signals selected from said RF signals at said inputs, said RF input switch having a control input for receiving a first control signal for selecting said selected group of RF signals;
tuner means coupled to said RF switch means for receiving said selected group of RF signals, said tuner means selecting a particular RF signal from said group of RF signals in response to a second control signal, and converting said particular RF signal to a signal at an intermediate frequency (IF);
control means for generating said first and second controls signal for causing said RF switch means and said tuner means to select said particular RF signal;
means, coupled to said control means, for entering data in response to operation by a user;
memory means having a plurality of areas for storing data related to the tuning of preferred ones of said RF signals, each of said areas storing tuning information specific to the RF signals of a respective one of said groups of RF signals received at one of said RF input terminals;
video processing means coupled to said tuner means for receiving, demodulating and amplifying said IF signal; and on-screen display means coupled to said control means and said video processor means for generating video signals indicative of a message for display;
wherein in response to said data entered by said user, said control means sequentially retrieves said tuning data from said memory means in one of a linked mode in which said control means automatically retrieves said tuning data from a second one of said areas after having completed the sequential retrieval of said tuning data from said first area, and an unlinked mode in which said control means automatically begins the sequential retrieval of said tuning data from said first area upon completion of said sequential retrieval of said tuning data from said first area;
said control means automatically generating said first control signal for selecting the respective one of said RF input terminals which is related to the memory area from which said tuning data is to be retrieved;
said on-screen display means generating said message in a first color when said first RF input terminal is selected, and in a second color when said second RF input terminal is selected.
a plurality of radio frequency (RF) signal input terminals, each of which receives a group of RF signals from respective RF signal sources;
RF switch means having a plurality of inputs, each of which is connected to a respective one of said RF input terminals, said RF switch means having an output at which is developed one of said groups of RF
signals selected from said RF signals at said inputs, said RF input switch having a control input for receiving a first control signal for selecting said selected group of RF signals;
tuner means coupled to said RF switch means for receiving said selected group of RF signals, said tuner means selecting a particular RF signal from said group of RF signals in response to a second control signal, and converting said particular RF signal to a signal at an intermediate frequency (IF);
control means for generating said first and second controls signal for causing said RF switch means and said tuner means to select said particular RF signal;
means, coupled to said control means, for entering data in response to operation by a user;
memory means having a plurality of areas for storing data related to the tuning of preferred ones of said RF signals, each of said areas storing tuning information specific to the RF signals of a respective one of said groups of RF signals received at one of said RF input terminals;
video processing means coupled to said tuner means for receiving, demodulating and amplifying said IF signal; and on-screen display means coupled to said control means and said video processor means for generating video signals indicative of a message for display;
wherein in response to said data entered by said user, said control means sequentially retrieves said tuning data from said memory means in one of a linked mode in which said control means automatically retrieves said tuning data from a second one of said areas after having completed the sequential retrieval of said tuning data from said first area, and an unlinked mode in which said control means automatically begins the sequential retrieval of said tuning data from said first area upon completion of said sequential retrieval of said tuning data from said first area;
said control means automatically generating said first control signal for selecting the respective one of said RF input terminals which is related to the memory area from which said tuning data is to be retrieved;
said on-screen display means generating said message in a first color when said first RF input terminal is selected, and in a second color when said second RF input terminal is selected.
2. The television receiver of claim 1, wherein said means for entering data comprises a remote control unit, said remote control unit including keys for selecting individual ones of said RF input terminals, each ofsaid keys for selecting said RF input terminals being distinguished from the others by a color associated with said key.
3. The television receiver of claim 2, wherein one of said RF
input terminals is distinguished from the others by a color associated with saidRF input terminal, and wherein said key for selecting a particular RF input terminal and said one RF input terminal are associated with the same color.
input terminals is distinguished from the others by a color associated with saidRF input terminal, and wherein said key for selecting a particular RF input terminal and said one RF input terminal are associated with the same color.
4. The television receiver of claim 3 wherein said one RF input terminal, said key for selecting said particular RF input terminal, and said message signals generated for display when said one RF input terminal is selected, are all associated with the same color.
5. A television receiver, comprising:
a plurality of radio frequency (RF) signal input terminals, each of which receives a group of RF signals from respective RF signal sources;
RF switch means having a plurality of inputs, each of which is connected to a respective one of said RF input terminals, said RF
switch means having an output at which is developed one of said groups of RF signals selected from said RF signals at said inputs, said RF input switch having a control input for receiving a first control signal for selecting said selected group of RF signals;
tuner means coupled to said RF switch means for receiving said selected group of RF signals, said tuner means selecting a particular RF signal from said group of RF signals in response to a second control signal, and converting said particular RF signal to a signal at an intermediate frequency (IF);
control means for generating said first and second controls signal for causing said RF switch means and said tuner means to select said particular RF signal;
means, coupled to said control means, for entering data in response to operation by a user;
video processing means coupled to said tuner means for receiving, demodulating and amplifying said IF signal; and on-screen display means coupled to said control means and said video processor means for generating video signals indicative of the message for display;
memory means having a plurality of areas for storing data related to the tuning of preferred ones of said RF signals, each of said areas storing tuning information specific to the RF signals of a respective one of said groups of RF signals received at one of said RF input terminals, each of said area including a plurality of memory locations between first and second limits;
wherein in response to said data entered by said user, said control means sequentially retrieves said tuning data from said memory means in one of a linked mode in which said control means automatically retrieves said tuning data beginning at said first limit of a second one of said areas after having retrieved said tuning data from said memory location at said second limit of said first area, and an unlinked mode in which said control means automatically begins the sequential retrieval of said tuning data from said memory location at said first limit of said first area upon retrieving said tuning data from said memory location at said second limit of said first area, said control means automatically generating said first control signal for selecting the respective one of said RF input terminals which is related to the memory area from which said tuning data is to be retrieved;
said on-screen display means generating said message signals in a first color when said first RF input terminal is selected, and in a second color when said second RF input terminal is selected.
a plurality of radio frequency (RF) signal input terminals, each of which receives a group of RF signals from respective RF signal sources;
RF switch means having a plurality of inputs, each of which is connected to a respective one of said RF input terminals, said RF
switch means having an output at which is developed one of said groups of RF signals selected from said RF signals at said inputs, said RF input switch having a control input for receiving a first control signal for selecting said selected group of RF signals;
tuner means coupled to said RF switch means for receiving said selected group of RF signals, said tuner means selecting a particular RF signal from said group of RF signals in response to a second control signal, and converting said particular RF signal to a signal at an intermediate frequency (IF);
control means for generating said first and second controls signal for causing said RF switch means and said tuner means to select said particular RF signal;
means, coupled to said control means, for entering data in response to operation by a user;
video processing means coupled to said tuner means for receiving, demodulating and amplifying said IF signal; and on-screen display means coupled to said control means and said video processor means for generating video signals indicative of the message for display;
memory means having a plurality of areas for storing data related to the tuning of preferred ones of said RF signals, each of said areas storing tuning information specific to the RF signals of a respective one of said groups of RF signals received at one of said RF input terminals, each of said area including a plurality of memory locations between first and second limits;
wherein in response to said data entered by said user, said control means sequentially retrieves said tuning data from said memory means in one of a linked mode in which said control means automatically retrieves said tuning data beginning at said first limit of a second one of said areas after having retrieved said tuning data from said memory location at said second limit of said first area, and an unlinked mode in which said control means automatically begins the sequential retrieval of said tuning data from said memory location at said first limit of said first area upon retrieving said tuning data from said memory location at said second limit of said first area, said control means automatically generating said first control signal for selecting the respective one of said RF input terminals which is related to the memory area from which said tuning data is to be retrieved;
said on-screen display means generating said message signals in a first color when said first RF input terminal is selected, and in a second color when said second RF input terminal is selected.
6. The television receiver of claim 5, wherein said means for entering data comprises a keyboard including a first key for selecting said first RF input terminal and a second key for selecting said second RF
input terminal, said first key for selecting said first RF input terminal being distinguished from said second key for selecting said second RF
input terminal by a color associated with said first key.
input terminal, said first key for selecting said first RF input terminal being distinguished from said second key for selecting said second RF
input terminal by a color associated with said first key.
7. The television receiver of claim 6, wherein one of said first RF input terminal is distinguished from said second RF input terminal by a color associated with said first RF input terminal, and wherein said key for selecting said first RF input terminal and said first RF input terminal are associated with the same color.
8. The television receiver of claim 7 wherein said first RF
input terminal, said first key for selecting said first input terminal, and said message signals generated for display when said first RF input terminal is selected, are all associated with the same color.
input terminal, said first key for selecting said first input terminal, and said message signals generated for display when said first RF input terminal is selected, are all associated with the same color.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US07/589,832 US5103314A (en) | 1990-09-24 | 1990-09-24 | Color-coded system for selection of rf input terminals and associated scan lists |
| US589,832 | 1990-09-24 |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2048752A1 CA2048752A1 (en) | 1992-03-25 |
| CA2048752C true CA2048752C (en) | 1997-10-07 |
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| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002048752A Expired - Fee Related CA2048752C (en) | 1990-09-24 | 1991-08-08 | Color-coded system for selection of rf input terminals and associated scan lists |
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| US (1) | US5103314A (en) |
| EP (1) | EP0477754B1 (en) |
| JP (1) | JP2797227B2 (en) |
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-
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- 1990-09-24 US US07/589,832 patent/US5103314A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
1991
- 1991-06-18 MY MYPI91001087A patent/MY106799A/en unknown
- 1991-08-08 CA CA002048752A patent/CA2048752C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1991-09-17 KR KR1019910016168A patent/KR100211845B1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1991-09-18 SG SG9601977A patent/SG93752A1/en unknown
- 1991-09-18 EP EP91115828A patent/EP0477754B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1991-09-18 DE DE69128120T patent/DE69128120T2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1991-09-18 ES ES91115828T patent/ES2109249T3/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1991-09-20 CN CN91109111A patent/CN1052599C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1991-09-20 JP JP3313017A patent/JP2797227B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CN1052599C (en) | 2000-05-17 |
| SG93752A1 (en) | 2003-01-21 |
| DE69128120T2 (en) | 1998-03-05 |
| MY106799A (en) | 1995-07-31 |
| CA2048752A1 (en) | 1992-03-25 |
| DE69128120D1 (en) | 1997-12-11 |
| US5103314A (en) | 1992-04-07 |
| KR920007451A (en) | 1992-04-28 |
| CN1060186A (en) | 1992-04-08 |
| ES2109249T3 (en) | 1998-01-16 |
| JPH04282978A (en) | 1992-10-08 |
| EP0477754B1 (en) | 1997-11-05 |
| JP2797227B2 (en) | 1998-09-17 |
| EP0477754A2 (en) | 1992-04-01 |
| KR100211845B1 (en) | 1999-08-02 |
| EP0477754A3 (en) | 1992-10-28 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |
Effective date: 20070808 |