Patent ID: 6532359
Filing Date: 2003-03-11
Classification: H04B

Abstract:
A receiver/controller apparatus for a remote convenience system, said apparatus being responsive to a remote convenience function request conveyed via an electromagnetic signal transmitted from a portable transmitter for controlling performance of an associated function, said apparatus comprising:a plurality of antenna means, each having a reception pattern oriented in a different direction, for picking-up the electromagnetic signal and for outputting a respective, electrical antenna-output signal, a strength of the respective antenna-output signal being related to the position of the transmitter with respect to the associated reception pattern orientation direction; receive circuitry means for processing one of the antenna-output signals and for outputting an electrical signal conveying the function request in response to the processing of the one antenna-output signal; and signal selection means for determining which antenna-output signal has a greater strength and for causing said receive circuitry means to process the antenna-output signal having the greater strength; said signal selection means includes means for comparing amplitude values of antenna-output signals, said signal selection means includes means for controlling the antenna-output signals to determine an amplitude value for only one antenna-output signal at a time, said signal selection means includes memory means for holding amplitude values for later comparison.