초록 ▼

This invention enables a user to locate a missing remote control unit for an appliance, such as a television set, by causing the missing unit to emit an alarm. The television set includes a transmitter which is controlled by a switch mounted on the television cabinet. The remote control unit include

This invention enables a user to locate a missing remote control unit for an appliance, such as a television set, by causing the missing unit to emit an alarm. The television set includes a transmitter which is controlled by a switch mounted on the television cabinet. The remote control unit includes a receiver, capable of detecting a signal from the transmitter. The receiver activates an alarm, which can be audible, visible, or both. When the switch is depressed, and if the remote control unit is within range, the alarm will be activated, and the unit is easily located. The transmitter can be controlled by a timer which governs the period during which the alarm sounds. Also, the transmitter can be connected to a lamp, or other indicator, to show the user when the transmitter is operating. The transmitter and switch can be built into the television cabinet, or they can be housed in a separate unit which is attached to the cabinet. The remote control unit is powered by a battery, and includes a device for sensing when the battery current is low, and for activating the alarm when that condition occurs. In another embodiment, the circuit automatically switches the battery on and off, the battery delivering current only for a fraction of the operating time, thus prolonging the interval between required battery replacements.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] In an appliance having a wireless remote control device, the remote control device being capable of controlling the appliance, the appliance having a source of power, the remote control device having a separate source of power, the appliance including a transmitter, the t

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] In an appliance having a wireless remote control device, the remote control device being capable of controlling the appliance, the appliance having a source of power, the remote control device having a separate source of power, the appliance including a transmitter, the transmitter being actuated by a switch, the transmitter being capable of emitting a signal, the remote control device including a receiver capable of receiving the signal emitted by the transmitter, the receiver being connected to an alarm device, wherein the alarm device generates an alarm when the switch is actuated,the improvement wherein the receiver has a power source, and wherein the remote control device includes means for intermittently connecting the power source to the receiver,the intermittent connecting means comprising:a pulse generator operated continuously by an auxiliary power source independent of the power source of the receiver, the pulse generator having an output connected to a first input of an OR gate,the receiver having an output connected to a second input of the OR gate,an R-C circuit connected to the output of the receiver and to the second input of the OR gate,the output of the OR gate being connected to an electronic switch which comprises means for connecting the power source of the receiver to the receiver.