Patent ID: 9137570
Filing Date: 2015-09-15
Classification: H04N

Abstract:
1. A method for controlling at least one of a plurality of component devices, comprising: receiving event data via a sensing interface while the at least of the plurality of component devices is in a tuning state; and when it is determined from the received event data that a number of viewers in a viewing area associated with the at least one of the plurality of component devices has increased by at least one new user in accord with a predetermined rule, causing a command action to be executed whereupon the at least one of the plurality of component devices is caused to perform an operational function to thereby prevent a changing of the tuning state of the at least one of the plurality of component devices; wherein the at least one of the plurality of component devices is rendered temporarily non-responsive to tuning commands provided thereto for at least a predetermined period of time relative to execution of the command action and wherein, upon an expiration of the predetermined period of time, the at least one of the plurality of component devices is automatically returned to being responsive to tuning commands provided thereto.