Abstract:
Presented is a control system for augmenting a portable touch screen device having integral processing capability. The control system includes an enclosure configured for encasing the portable touch screen device, an internal docking connector configured for communicatively mating with the portable touch screen device, and hard buttons. At least one of the hard buttons is functionally configured for use with an application program running on the portable touch screen device. The control system includes further includes a processor configured for converting button actuations into a digital format, and a first facility for communicating the digital format to the portable touch screen device via the internal docking connector. The application program is configured such that, during operation, the application program communicates the status of the one hard button to at least one external device.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    1. Technical Field 
         [0002]    The present invention relates generally to hand-held electronic touch screen devices such as smart phones, electronic book readers, and tablet personal computers, and more particularly to augmenting these devices with various external manual hard buttons and/or actuators and indicators for controlling remote devices. 
         [0003]    2. Background Art 
         [0004]    Touch screen smart phones, electronic book (eBook) readers, and tablet computers have become ubiquitous. Many such touch screen devices employ a touch screen interface along with generic manual controls and/or actuators, while other touch screen devices employ a touch screen interface alone. 
         [0005]    The generic manual controls employed on a touch screen device are typically configured to operate of the touch screen device itself or configured to operate specific applications executing on the touch screen device, and are unavailable for controlling remote devices. 
         [0006]    Although some touch screen interfaces are relatively sophisticated and incorporate advanced touch screen features such a multi-touch and gesturing features, touch screen interfaces are simply not appropriate for all applications. For example, existing touch screen devices do not provide dedicated volume control buttons that can be used to control the volume of remote devices. 
         [0007]    While such dedicated buttons for controlling remote devices could be provided in the form of soft buttons via a graphical user interface on the touch screen device, such soft buttons would occupy a significant amount of on-screen area, and thus reduce the on-screen area available for other applications. 
         [0008]    Further, using a touch screen interface for repetitive remote control functions, such as changing channels (i.e., channel surfing), for example, is awkward and uncomfortable, provides significant stress to a user&#39;s fingers, and can cause repetitive stress injuries (RSI). Despite these drawbacks, because of the graphic flexibility of the touch screen interface, remote controls are increasingly being equipped solely with touch screens. 
         [0009]    Additionally, although users typically desire a remote control with a large display, the size of the touch screen is limited because the user needs to be able to hold the remote with one hand and input commands with the other, free hand. Remote controls with large touch screens, such as with tablet remote controls, are difficult to hold with one hand while inputting commands with the other hand. Typically, these large devices must be placed on a table or other surface to be operated properly. Users have a natural inclination to grasp tablet devices with each hand in an open precision grip, with the user&#39;s thumb finger above the top side of the tablet and the remaining four digit fingers on the bottom side supporting the tablet. 
         [0010]    In view of the above-described issues, there is a need to integrate a relatively low-cost portable smart touch screen device with a specialized control device employing hard buttons to produce a remote control with the graphic flexibility of a touch screen interface and the ergonomic benefits of physical control buttons, and which may be easily operated while being held naturally by a user. 
         [0011]    Additionally, there is a need for such a specialized control device to include a dedicated power supply and independent wireless networking capability in order to avoid usage limitations based on the limitations of the associated touch screen device. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0012]    It is to be understood that both the general and detailed descriptions that follow are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention. 
       DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION 
       [0013]    According to one aspect, the invention involves a control system for a portable touch screen device having integral processing capability. The control system includes an enclosure configured for encasing the portable touch screen device, an internal docking connector configured for communicatively mating with the portable touch screen device, and a plurality of hard buttons. At least one of the hard buttons is functionally configured for use with an application program running on the portable touch screen device. The system further includes a processor configured for converting button actuations into a digital format, and a first facility for communicating the digital format to the portable touch screen device via the internal docking connector. The application program is configured such that, during operation, the application program communicates a status of the at least one hard button to at least one external device. 
         [0014]    In one embodiment, the control system further includes an IR emitter, and a second facility for communicating the digital format to the IR emitter. The IR emitter is configured to transmit IR control commands directly to the at least one external device. 
         [0015]    In another embodiment, the enclosure further includes a front clam shell portion, and a rear clam shell portion. 
         [0016]    In still another embodiment, the control system further includes an external USB connector. 
         [0017]    In yet another embodiment, the control system further includes a USB switch, a first USB wired connection between the processor and the USB switch, a second USB wired connection between the internal docking connector and the USB switch, and a third USB wired connection between the USB switch and the external USB connector. 
         [0018]    In another embodiment, the control system further includes an audio connector which mates directly to the portable touch screen device. 
         [0019]    In still another embodiment, the control system further includes an authentication coprocessor. 
         [0020]    In yet another embodiment, the application program is configured for controlling home and office equipment, the application program provides a user with status indications related to the home and office equipment, and hard button actuations are communicated wirelessly from the portable touch screen device in order to control the home and office equipment. 
         [0021]    In another embodiment, the hard buttons are operable to adjust audio volume and lighting brightness without navigating through subpages of the application program. 
         [0022]    In still another embodiment, the enclosure further includes a wired digital interface between the processor and the portable touch screen device, and the wired digital interface device is selected from the group consisting of: CAN bus, Ethernet, IEEE-1394 (Firewire), RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, and USB. 
         [0023]    In yet another embodiment, the enclosure further includes a wireless digital interface 
         [0024]    In another embodiment, the wireless digital interface is selected from the group consisting of: IEEE-802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE-802.15.1 (Bluetooth), IEEE-802.15.4 (Zigbee), and infiNET™. 
         [0025]    In still another embodiment, the wireless digital interface includes a proprietary protocol in the UHF frequency band. 
         [0026]    In yet another embodiment, the wireless digital interface functions as a communication channel between the processor and the portable touch screen device. 
         [0027]    In another embodiment, the wireless digital interface functions as a communication channel between the processor and an external device. 
         [0028]    In still another embodiment, the enclosure further includes an infrared digital interface 
         [0029]    In yet another embodiment, the control system further includes the infrared digital interface is selected from the group consisting of: IrDA and RC-5 infrared protocol. 
         [0030]    In another embodiment, the infrared digital interface communicates using a proprietary protocol. 
         [0031]    In still another embodiment, the infrared digital interface functions as a communication channel between the processor and the portable touch screen device. 
         [0032]    In yet another embodiment, the infrared digital interface functions as a communication channel between the processor and an external device. 
         [0033]    In another embodiment, the control system further includes an Ethernet interface. 
         [0034]    In still another embodiment, the control system further includes a power-over-Ethernet interface, and a power supply deriving electrical power from the POE interface and providing electrical power to the portable touch screen device. 
         [0035]    In yet another embodiment, the hard buttons further include an OSD navigation pad, volume up/down, and dedicated function buttons to control “mute”, “lights”, “home”, “guide”, “info”, and “exit”. 
         [0036]    In another embodiment, the enclosure further includes an external docking connector configured for communicatively mating with a mounting stand. 
         [0037]    In still another embodiment, the mounting stand is configured for supporting the enclosure in space, is connected to an external power source, and is further configured for providing electrical power to the portable touch screen device. 
         [0038]    According to another aspect, the invention involves a control system for a portable touch screen device having integral processing capability. The control system includes an enclosure configured for encasing the portable touch screen device, and a plurality of hard buttons. At least one of the hard buttons is functionally configured for controlling home or office equipment. The system further includes a wireless digital interface. 
         [0039]    According to still another aspect, the invention involves a control system for a portable touch screen device. The control system includes an enclosure configured for encasing the portable touch screen device, one or more hard buttons disposed on the enclosure, and a communication path between the control system and the portable touch screen device. The communication path is configured for communicating control information. 
         [0040]    In one embodiment, the communication path communicates signals corresponding to actuations of the hard buttons to the portable touch screen device. 
         [0041]    In another embodiment, the control information includes control commands to be transmitted by the portable touch screen device to an external component. 
         [0042]    In still another embodiment, the communication path communicates status information corresponding to an external device from the portable touch screen device to the control system. 
         [0043]    In yet another embodiment, the communication path further includes an internal docking connector configured for mating with the portable touch screen device and a wired digital interface selected from the group consisting of CAN bus, Ethernet, IEEE-1394 (Firewire), RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, and USB. 
         [0044]    In another embodiment, the communication path communicates control information from the portable touch screen device to the control system, and the system is further configured for transmitting the control information to an external device. 
         [0045]    In still another embodiment, the communication path communicates status information corresponding to an external device from the control system to the portable touch screen device. 
         [0046]    In yet another embodiment, the system further includes a wireless digital interface selected from the group consisting of: IEEE-802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE-802.15.1 (Bluetooth), IEEE-802.15.4 (Zigbee), infiNET™, and a proprietary protocol in the UHF band. 
         [0047]    In another embodiment, the control system further includes a wireless digital interface that functions as a communication channel between the control system and an external device. 
         [0048]    In still another embodiment, the system further includes a wireless digital interface that functions as a communication channel between the control system and the portable touch screen device. 
         [0049]    In yet another embodiment, the system further includes an infrared digital interface selected from the group consisting of: IrDA, RC-5 protocol, and a proprietary protocol. 
         [0050]    In another embodiment, the system further includes an infrared digital interface that functions as a communication channel between the control system and the portable touch screen device. 
         [0051]    In still another embodiment, the system further includes an infrared digital interface that functions as a communication channel between the control system and an external device. 
         [0052]    In another embodiment, the control system further includes an Ethernet interface. 
         [0053]    In yet another embodiment, the control system further includes a power-over-Ethernet (POE) interface, and a power supply deriving electrical power from the POE interface and providing electrical power to the portable touch screen device. 
         [0054]    In another embodiment, the power-over-Ethernet interface functions as a communication channel between the control system and an external device. 
         [0055]    In still another embodiment, the control system transmits control information to an external device via the power-over-Ethernet interface. 
         [0056]    In yet another embodiment, the control system receives feedback information from an external device via the power-over-Ethernet interface. 
         [0057]    In another embodiment, at least one of the buttons is configured to remain functional regardless of the operational status of the portable touch screen device. 
         [0058]    In still another embodiment, at least one of the hard buttons is configured for use with an application program running on the portable touch screen device, and at least one other hard button is configured to remain functional independent of the operational status of the application program. 
         [0059]    In yet another embodiment, the control system further includes a mounting stand for supporting the enclosure. 
         [0060]    In still another embodiment, the mounting stand includes an Ethernet interface. 
         [0061]    In another embodiment, the mounting stand further includes a power-over-Ethernet interface and a detachable wired connection between the mounting stand and the enclosure. 
         [0062]    In still another embodiment, the enclosure includes a front cover sizably adapted to protectively fit together along mating edges around the portable touch screen device; and the front cover includes an access opening providing viewing access to a display screen of the portable touch screen device. 
         [0063]    In yet another embodiment, the control system further includes a battery and a charging circuit. The battery and charging circuit are configured to supply supplemental power to the portable touch screen device. 
         [0064]    According to yet another aspect, the invention involves a control system for a portable touch screen device having integral processing capability. The control system includes an enclosure configured for encasing a portable touch screen device, the enclosure including a first portion and second portion, an internal docking connector configured for communicatively mating with the portable touch screen device, at least one hard button functionally configured for use with an application program running on the portable touch screen device, a processor for configured for converting hard button actuations into a digital format, a USB wired connection between the processor and the internal docking connector, and an Ethernet interface. 
         [0065]    In one embodiment, the application program provides a user with control functions related home and office equipment, and status indications related to the home and office equipment. 
         [0066]    In another embodiment, the control system further includes a mounting stand configured for supporting and connectively mating with the enclosure. The mounting stand is further configured for communicating information received from the control system to an external device as Cresnet control signals. 
         [0067]    In still another embodiment, the control system further includes a mounting stand configured for supporting and connectively mating with the enclosure. The mounting stand is further configured for communicating streaming media received from an external device to the portable touch screen device. 
         [0068]    In yet another embodiment, the Ethernet interface includes a power-over-Ethernet interface. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
         [0069]    The accompanying figures further illustrate the present invention. Exemplary embodiments are illustrated in reference figures of the drawings. It is intended that the embodiments and figures disclosed herein are to be considered to illustrative rather than limiting. 
           [0070]    The components in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the present invention. In the drawings, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views. 
           [0071]      FIG. 1  is an illustrative front view of a portable touch screen device disposed within a clam shell enclosure that includes dedicated hard buttons, according to one embodiment of the invention. 
           [0072]      FIG. 2  is an illustrative perspective rear view of the portable touch screen device and the inside of the front portion of the clam shell enclosure of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0073]      FIG. 3  is an illustrative perspective rear view of the portable touch screen device and the front and rear portions of the clam shell enclosure of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0074]      FIG. 4  is an illustrative rear view of the clam shell enclosure disposed in a docking station, according to one embodiment of the invention. 
           [0075]      FIG. 5  is an illustrative block diagram of a plurality of remote control devices in communication with a home automation system, according to one embodiment of the invention. 
           [0076]      FIG. 6  is an illustrative block diagram of the electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure, according to one embodiment of the invention. 
           [0077]      FIG. 7  is an illustrative block diagram of the electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure, according to another embodiment of the invention. 
           [0078]      FIG. 8  is an illustrative block diagram of the electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure, according to still another embodiment of the invention. 
           [0079]      FIG. 9  is an illustrative block diagram of the electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure, according to yet another embodiment of the invention. 
           [0080]      FIG. 10  is an illustrative perspective front view of a portable touch screen device encased within a circular clam shell enclosure that includes dedicated hard buttons, according to another embodiment of the invention. 
       
    
    
     LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS FOR THE MAJOR ELEMENTS IN THE DRAWING 
       [0081]    The following is a list of the major elements in the drawings in numerical order.
         1  enclosure (enclosing portable touch screen device  5 )     1 ′ circular enclosure (enclosing portable touch screen device  5 )     2  charging docking station     5  portable touch screen device     10  front clam shell portion (of enclosure  1 )     12  internal docking connector (mates with portable touch screen device  5 )     13  external USB connector (mounted on front shell portion  10 )     14  audio connector (mates directly to portable touch screen device  5 )     17  IR emitter (to transmit commands to external devices)     18  external power connector     20  rear clam shell portion (of enclosure  1 )     21  external docking connector (mates with charging docking station  2 )     21 ′ external docking connector (mates with charging docking station  2 )     21 ″ external docking connector (mates with charging docking station  2 )     22  external docking connector (mates with charging docking station  2 )     31  hard button     31 ′ hard button     31  2-quadrant button (hard buttons)     32 ′ 2-quadrant button (hard buttons)     33  5-way thumb pad (hard buttons)     33 ′ 5-way thumb pad (hard buttons)     34  indicator lights     41  authentication coprocessor     42  USB switch     43  memory     44  POE interface     45  power supply     46  power supply (from POE)     47  power supply     50  processor     51  processor     52  processor     53  processor     54  processor     55  processor     63  Zigbee antenna     64  Zigbee interface     65  power supply (power from portable touch screen device  5 )     66  Wi-Fi interface     67  infrared (IR) interface     68  Wi-Fi antenna     70  home automation system     71  lighting equipment     72  HVAC equipment     73  security equipment     75  keypad     76  wireless Wi-Fi gateway     76 ′ wireless Zigbee gateway     77  home theater     78  home audio     100  Internet     105  personal computer     131  first USB wired connection (to/from processor  50 ,  51 ,  52 ,  53 )     132  second USB wired connection (to/from USB connector  13 )     133  third USB wired connection (to/from internal docking connector  12 )     134  fourth USB wired connection     431  fast Ethernet channel wired connection (to/from microprocessor)     731  wired digital interface (between portable touch screen device  5  and processor  53 )       
 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0140]    Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific language will be used herein to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Alterations and further modifications of the inventive features illustrated herein, and additional applications of the principles of the inventions as illustrated herein, which would occur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of this disclosure, are to be considered within the scope of the invention. 
         [0141]    Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words ‘comprise’, ‘comprising’, and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”. 
       MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION 
       [0142]    The present invention involves augmenting a portable smart touch panel with an external control system by disposing the portable smart touch panel device, such as an Apple® iPad™ tablet computer, an Apple® IPhone®, or a Motorola® DROID® phone, or the like, for example, within a protective enclosure (e.g., clam shell) that includes one or more dedicated hard buttons and one or more means for wireless communication, and thereby forming a remote control device. 
         [0143]    The remote control device accepts user input and is capable of transmitting control commands to a plurality of controllable devices, such as audio and video components, lighting controls, and HVAC controls. In one embodiment, the remote control device transmits control commands independent of whether or not the touch panel device is on, or a particular application is executing on the touch panel device. In another embodiment, the smart touch panel device executes an application that complements the intended end-use of the remote control, such as a graphic user interface that functions as a control panel for an office or home automation system or home theater. 
         [0144]    The remote control, in various embodiments, utilizes communication methods known in the art to transmit control commands (e.g., key/button presses) either directly to the controllable devices or indirectly through an intermediate device. For example, the remote control may transmit control commands as infrared (IR) or wireless radio frequency (RF) signals. 
         [0145]    Referring to  FIG. 1 , in one embodiment, an illustrative front view of a portable touch screen device  5  disposed within a protective clam shell enclosure  1  and thus forming a remote control device  3  is shown. The clam shell enclosure  1  includes a front clam shell portion  10  and a rear clam shell portion  20  (see  FIG. 3 ). The front portion  10  of the enclosure  1  includes a viewing screen access opening  11  which is dimensioned and arranged to fit around the viewing screen of the touch screen device  5  so that the touch screen can be seen while disposed in the enclosure  1 . The front portion  10  further includes dedicated hard buttons  31 ,  32 , a five-way thumb pad  33 , indicator lights  34 , an external universal serial bus (USB) connector  13 , and an infrared (IR) emitter  17 . In other embodiments, more or less hard buttons, lights, and communication ports can be included. In addition to the dedicated hard buttons  31 ,  32 , in various embodiments, the enclosure  1  includes one or more optical finger navigation buttons and/or trackballs. 
         [0146]    Referring to  FIG. 2 , an illustrative perspective rear view of the portable touch screen device  5  and the inside of the front portion  10  of the clam shell enclosure  1  are shown An internal docking connector  12  is disposed on the inside surface of the front portion  10 . The docking connector  12  is configured for electrically connecting/mating to a connector (not shown) disposed on the portable smart touch screen device  5  and enables a communication and power transfer path between the enclosure  1  and the touch screen device  5 . 
         [0147]    Referring to  FIG. 3 , an illustrative perspective rear view of the portable touch screen device  5 , the front portion  10  and the rear portion  20  of the clam shell enclosure  1  are shown. The front portion  10  further includes an audio connector  14  disposed on an inside surface. The audio connector  14  is configured to electrically connect to a complementary audio port on the touch screen device  5 . In some embodiments, speaker holes are disposed in an area of the enclosure  1  that is proximate to a speaker on the touch screen device  5  so that sound from the touch screen device can pass through the enclosure  1  without being muffled. The rear portion  20  includes a connector  21  that electrically mates with a docking station  2 , as shown in  FIG. 4 . The docketing station  2  provides a means for charging rechargeable batteries disposed in the enclosure  1  and the touch screen device  5 . The docking station  2  also provides a communication link with the office or home automation system or home theater (see  FIG. 9 ), and is discussed in detail below. 
         [0148]    The front portion  10  and the rear portion  20  engage each other along common mating edges and are held together using spring retention or pod clips (i.e., clips). The front portion  10  and the rear portion  20  are molded preferably of a high strength plastic material for both high impact strength and natural decorative effect. The clips are formed of high-strength stainless steel material for resilience and springiness. The front portion  10  and the rear portion  20  are thus tightly held together and securely hold the touch screen device  5  without the need for additional fasteners or connectors or adhesive. The enclosure  1  may be easily detached and interchanged with components of different colors and textures for aesthetic purposes, or for the servicing of components or batteries within the enclosure  1  or touch panel  5 . 
         [0149]    Referring to  FIG. 4 , as mentioned above, the rear portion  20  includes a connector  21  that electrically mates with the docking station  2 . The docketing station  2  provides a means for charging rechargeable batteries disposed in the enclosure  1  and the touch screen device  5 . The docking station  2  also provides a communication link with the office or home automation system, and is discussed in detail below. The docking station  2  further acts as a mounting stand capable of suspending the touch screen device  5  (enclosed in the enclosure  1 ) in space at one of a plurality of angles, which allows a user to view and operate the touch screen  5  easily. 
         [0150]    Referring to  FIG. 5 , in one embodiment, a block diagram of a plurality of remote control devices  3  in communication with a home automation system  70  is shown. The home automation system  70  is in communication with, and controls, lighting  71 , HVAC  72 , security  73 , a home theater system  77 , and a home audio system  78 . The home automation system  70  can be configured and controlled via a personal computer  105 , a keypad  75 , and/or, as described in detail below, the remote control device  3  via a wireless Wi-Fi gateway  76  and/or a wireless Zigbee gateway  76 ′, or the remote control device  3  disposed in the docking station  2 , which is in wired communication with the home automation system  70 . In some embodiments, the remote control device  3  can be used to connect to the internet  100  via the home automation system  70  through either wired or wireless communication. In other embodiments the wireless Wi-Fi gateway  76  and the wireless Zigbee gateway  76 ′ are combined into a single wireless gateway device. 
         [0151]    Referring to  FIG. 6 , in one embodiment, an illustrative block diagram of the electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure  1  is shown. The electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure  1  include a processor  50 , a memory  43 , a USB switch  42 , a power supply  45 , the external docking connector  21 , which includes connections for USB communication and power, and the internal docking connector  12 , which also includes connections for USB communication and power. 
         [0152]    The processor  50  includes general purpose input/output (GPIO) interfaces that are in communication with one or more keypad matrices, which are in communication with the hard buttons  31 ,  32 ,  33 . The processor  50  further includes a USB interface in communication with the USB switch  42  via a USB wired connection  131 . The processor  50  is also in communication with the indicator lights  34  and the memory  43  (e.g., RAM, ROM, EPROM). In other embodiments, the processor  50  includes an on-board memory. The USB switch  42 , which is controlled by the processor  50 , is in communication with the internal docking connector  12  via a USB wired connection  133 , and the external docking connector  21  via a USB wired connection  132 . The external docking connector  21  is also in communication with the power supply  45 . In other embodiments, the USB interface on the processor  50  is a USB on-the-go (USB-OTG) interface. 
         [0153]    The power supply  45  includes a rechargeable battery and a charging circuit known to those skilled in the art and supplies power to all the circuitry disposed in the clam shell enclosure  1 . The power supply  45  (i.e., battery) can be recharged via the external docking connector  21  when connected to the docking station  2 . The power supply  45  also allows a charging current from the docking station  2  (and passing through the external docking connector  21 ) to pass through to the internal docking connector  12  and charge a battery disposed in the portable touch screen device  5 . Further, the power supply  45  can also draw power from the battery disposed in the portable touch screen device  5  (through the internal docking connector  12 ) to charge the battery in the power supply  45  and supply power to the circuitry disposed in the clam shell enclosure  1 . 
         [0154]    Still referring to  FIG. 6 , one part or component of a software application (first application component) for controlling a home or office automation system (e.g., automation system  70 ) is stored in the memory  43  or in a memory on the processor  50  and executes on the processor  50 . Additionally, another part or component of the software application (second application component) for controlling the automation system  70  resides and executes on the portable touch screen device  5 . The first and second components of the automation system control application execute independent of any other application that may be executing on the touch screen device  5 . Further, the first and second application components execute independent of each other. 
         [0155]    The first application component executing on the processor  50  interprets input from the hard buttons  31 ,  32 ,  33 , converts the hard button actuations into digital signals, and transmits the input (digital signals) to the touch screen device  5  or directly to the automation system  70 , as described below. In various embodiments, at least some of the hard buttons  31 ,  32 ,  33  are dedicated control buttons with fixed functions, such as volume up/down, channel up/down, lights on/off, home, guide, info, exit, and/or mute, for example. These hard buttons execute their respective control functions upon being pressed by a user regardless of the state of the touch screen device  5 . In other words, these hard buttons execute their respective control functions without the user having to navigate through control menus, or without the touch screen device  5  being involved in any way. 
         [0156]    Other of the hard buttons  31 ,  32 ,  33 , are user configurable to control various external devices (e.g., stereo, temperature, light dimmer, etc) and/or system control functions. In some embodiments, one or more of the other hard buttons are programmed to interact with a graphical user interface displayed on the touch screen device  5 , or control another application executing on the touch screen device  5 . 
         [0157]    The second application component provides the optional graphical user interface displayed on the touch screen device  5 , and includes soft buttons used for controlling additional components, devices, and/or functions. The second application component also receives input (digital signals from hard button actuation) from the first application component and transmits the status of the actuated hard button (e.g., pressed) and/or control instructions to the automation system or to a particular external device in communication with the automation system via a wired or wireless communication link. The second application component also returns response/status signals (via the docking connector  12 ) that are used to control (i.e., turn on/off) the indicator lights  34  disposed on the enclosure  1 . 
         [0158]    In one embodiment, during an initial device configuration and set-up operation, the enclosure  1  is seated in, and in communication with, the docking station  2 . The processor  50  then controls the USB switch  42  to establish a communication link between the processor  50  and the external docking connector  21 . In this configuration, the processor  50  communicates with an external computing device (not shown) through the docking connector  21  and the docking station  2 . This external computing device initially loads the first and second application components into memory  43 . Thereafter, the processor  50  controls the switch  42  to establish a communication link between the processor  50  and the internal docking connector  12 . The processor  50  then installs the second application component on the touch screen device  5 . In other embodiments, the second application component is installed directly onto the touch screen device  5  by means known to those skilled in the art. 
         [0159]    In normal wireless operation/mode (i.e., the enclosure  1  is not disposed in the docking station  2 ), the enclosure  1  is powered by the power supply  45 . Further, the processor  50  controls the USB switch  42  to establish the communication link between the processor  50  and the touch screen device  5  via the internal docking connector  12 . 
         [0160]    When a user wishes to control a function of a device that is in communication with the automation system  70 , such as muting the audio of the home theater  77 , for example (see  FIG. 4 ), the user simply presses the appropriate hard button  31 ,  32 ,  33  that is dedicated to, or programmed for, muting the audio. The processor  50  executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command created by the user pressing the mute hard button (e.g., hard button  31  or  32 ) to the touch screen device  5  (via the connector  12 ). The second application component transmits the mute audio command via a wireless communication link (e.g., wireless Wi-Fi gateway  76 ) to the automation system  70 , which in turn transmits the mute audio command to the home theater  77 . 
         [0161]    Upon receiving the mute audio command, the home theater mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to the automation system  70 . The automation system  70  then wirelessly transmits the response signal to the touch screen device  5  via the wireless Wi-Fi gateway  76 . The second application component executing on the touch screen device  5  transmits the response/status signal to the first application component executing on the processor  50 . The processor  50  uses the received response/status signal to illuminate an indicator light  34  corresponding to audio muting being activated. 
         [0162]    In normal wired operation/mode, the enclosure  1  is disposed in the docking station  2  and powered by an external power supply. Further, the processor  50  controls the USB switch  42  to establish the communication link between the processor  50  and the external USB docking connector  21 . In this configuration, the processor  50  executing the first application component bypasses the touch screen device  5  and communicates directly with the automation system  70 . In other words, all commands from the enclosure  1  are transmitted directly (via the docking connector  21 ) to the automation system  70 . Likewise, all response signals are transmitted directly to the processor  50 . Consequently, the enclosure  1  is capable of controlling external devices even if the touch screen device  5  is turned off. 
         [0163]    In diagnostic mode, the processor  50  controls the USB switch  42  to establish a communication link between the processor  50  and the external docking connector  21 . In this configuration, the processor  50  communicates with an external computing device (not shown) through the docking connector  21 . This external computing device emulates the operation of the second application component, which normally executes on the touch screen device  5 . In this configuration the digital signals transmitted by the processor  50  can be observed and first application component can be debugged. 
         [0164]    Referring to  FIG. 7 , in another embodiment, an illustrative block diagram of the electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure  1  is shown. The electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure  1  include a processor  51 , an authentication coprocessor  41 , the memory  43 , the USB switch  42 , a power supply  46 , a power over Ethernet (POE) interface  44 , the external USB connector  13 , an external docking connector  21 ′, which includes connections for Ethernet communication and power, and the internal docking connector  12 , which includes connections for USB communication and power. 
         [0165]    The processor  51  includes general purpose input/output (GPIO) interfaces that are in communication with one or more keypad matrices, which are in communication with the hard buttons  31 ,  32 ,  33 . The processor  51  further includes a USB interface in communication with the USB switch  42  via a USB wired connection  131 . The processor  51  further includes an inter-integrated circuit (I 2 C) (i.e., a digital bus) in communication with the authentication coprocessor  41  described below. In other embodiments, the USB interface on the processor  51  is a USB on-the-go (USB-OTG) interface. 
         [0166]    The processor  51  still further includes a fast Ethernet channel (FEC) in communication over the FEC wired connection  431  with the POE interface  44 , which is in communication with the power supply  46  and the external docking connector  21 ′. When the external docking connector  21 ′ is connected to the docking station  2 , the POE interface  44  allows the processor  51  to communicate with an external device over an Ethernet connection. 
         [0167]    The processor  51  is also in communication with the indicator lights  34  and the memory  43  (e.g., RAM, ROM, EPROM). In other embodiments, the processor  51  includes an on-board memory. The USB switch  42  is in communication with the internal docking connector  12  via a USB wired connection  133 , and the USB connector  13  via a USB wired connection  132 . 
         [0168]    The power supply  46  includes a rechargeable battery and a charging circuit known to those skilled in the art and supplies power to all the circuitry disposed in the clam shell enclosure  1 . When the enclosure  1  is disposed in the docking station  2 , the POE interface  44  allows current from the Ethernet connection to pass to the power supply  46  and charge the battery therein. The POE interface  44  also allows current from the Ethernet connection to pass to the touch screen device  5  (via the internal docking connector  12 ) to charge a battery disposed therein. Further, the power supply  46  can also draw power from the battery disposed in the portable touch screen device  5  (through the internal docking connector  12 ) to charge the battery in the power supply  46  and supply power to the circuitry disposed in the clam shell enclosure  1 . 
         [0169]    The external USB connector  13  functions as a diagnostic port. When the second application component residing and executing on the touch screen device  5  needs to be installed, updated, or debugged, an external diagnostic computer is connected to the external USB connector  13 , and the processor  51  switches the USB switch  42  to establish a connection between the external diagnostic computer and the touch screen device  5  (through the internal docking connector  12 ). The external diagnostic computer can then install or update the second application component. The external diagnostic computer can also emulate the signals produced by the hard buttons  31 ,  32 ,  33  and the first application component executing on the processor  52  in the enclosure  1 , and transmit these signals to the touch screen device  5 , and receive responses from the touch screen device  5 . In this way, the second application component can be debugged. 
         [0170]    The authentication coprocessor  41  is an encryption chip licensed from Apple, Inc., that is included in devices that are officially licensed to communicate with Apple® products. Consequently, if the portable touch screen device  5  were an Apple® iPad™ or Apple® iPod™, then the enclosure  1  would need an authentication coprocessor  41  to function correctly with the iPad. In operation, after the portable touch screen device  5  (i.e., iPad) and the clam shell enclosure  1  were connected together (via the internal docking connector  12 ), the portable touch screen device  5  would interrogate the clam shell enclosure  1  to verify (by communicating with the authentication coprocessor  41 ) that the enclosure  1  was a product officially licensed to communicate with the portable touch screen device  5 . In this embodiment, the external USB connector  13  functions as a sync port through which the iPad or iPod can sync with Apple@ iTunes™. 
         [0171]    In one embodiment, during an initial device configuration and set-up operation, the enclosure  1  is seated in, and in communication with, the docking station  2 . In this configuration, the processor  51  communicates with an external computing device (not shown) through the docking connector  21 ′ and the docking station  2 . This external computing device initially loads the first and second application components into memory  43 . Thereafter, the processor  51  controls the switch  42  to establish a communication link between the processor  51  and the internal docking connector  12 . The processor  51  then installs the second application component on the touch screen device  5 . 
         [0172]    In another embodiment, the processor  51  can control the USB switch  42  to establish a communication link between the internal docking connector  12  and the external USB connector  13 . In this configuration, the touch screen device  5  communicates with an external computing device (not shown). This external computing device installs the second application component onto the touch screen device  5 . In still another embodiment, the second application component is installed directly onto the touch screen device  5  by means known to those skilled in the art. 
         [0173]    In normal wireless operation/mode (i.e., the enclosure  1  is not disposed in the docking station  2 ), the enclosure  1  is powered by the power supply  46 . Further, the processor  51  controls the USB switch  42  to establish the communication link between the processor  51  and the touch screen device  5  via the internal docking connector  12 . 
         [0174]    When a user wishes to control a function of a device that is in communication with the automation system  70 , such as muting the audio of the home theater  77 , for example (see  FIG. 4 ), the user simply presses the appropriate hard button  31 ,  32 ,  33  that is dedicated to, or programmed for, muting the audio. The processor  51  executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command created by the user pressing the mute hard button (e.g., hard button  31  or  32 ) to the touch screen device  5  (via the connector  12 ). The second application component transmits the mute audio command via a wireless communication link (e.g., wireless Wi-Fi gateway  76 ) to the automation system  70 , which in turn transmits the mute audio command to the home theater  77 . 
         [0175]    Upon receiving the mute audio command, the home theater mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to the automation system  70 . The automation system  70  then wirelessly transmits the response signal to the touch screen device  5  via the wireless Wi-Fi gateway  76 . The second application component executing on the touch screen device  5  transmits the response signal to the first application component executing on the processor  51 . The processor  51  uses the received response signal to illuminate an indicator light  34  corresponding to audio muting being activated. 
         [0176]    In normal wired operation/mode, the enclosure  1  is disposed in the docking station  2  and powered by an external power supply. In this configuration, the processor  51  executing the first application component bypasses the touch screen device  5  and communicates directly with the automation system  70  via the Ethernet connection on the external docking connector  21 ′. In other words, all commands from the enclosure  1  are transmitted directly (via the docking connector  21 ′) to the automation system  70 . Likewise, all response signals are transmitted directly to the processor  51 . In this configuration, since controlling the external device does not involve using the touch screen device  5 , the enclosure  1  can control the external device even if the touch screen device  5  is turned off. 
         [0177]    Alternatively, the processor  51  can control the USB switch  42  to establish the communication link between the processor  51  and the external docking connector  21 ′. In this configuration, the processor  51  and the touch screen device  5  function as described above with respect to normal wireless mode. 
         [0178]    Referring to  FIG. 8 , in still another embodiment, an illustrative block diagram of the electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure  1  is shown. The electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure  1  include a processor  52 , the authentication coprocessor  41 , the memory  43 , the USB switch  42 , a power supply  65 , a Zigbee interface  64  in communication with a Zigbee antenna  63 , the USB connector  13 , the internal docking connector  12 , which also includes connections for USB communication and power, and an external docking connector  21 ″, which includes connections for power. 
         [0179]    The processor  52  includes general purpose input/output (GPIO) interfaces that are in communication with one or more keypad matrices, which are in communication with the hard buttons  31 ,  32 ,  33 . The processor  52  further includes a USB interface in communication with the USB switch  42  via a USB wired connection  131 . The processor  52  further includes an inter-integrated circuit (I 2 C) (i.e., a digital bus) in communication with the authentication coprocessor  41 . The processor  52  still further includes a serial peripheral interface (SPI) in communication with the Zigbee interface  64 . In other embodiments, the USB interface on the processor  52  is a USB on-the-go (USB-OTG) interface. 
         [0180]    The processor  52  is also in communication with the indicator lights  34  and the memory  43  (e.g., RAM, ROM, EPROM). In other embodiments, the processor  52  includes an on-board memory. The USB switch  42  is in communication with the internal docking connector  12  via a USB wired connection  133 , and the USB connector  13  via a USB wired connection  132 . The authentication coprocessor  41  and the external USB connector  13  both function as previously described above with respect to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 7 . 
         [0181]    The power supply  65  includes a rechargeable battery and a charging circuit known to those skilled in the art and supplies power to all the circuitry disposed in the clam shell enclosure  1 . When the enclosure  1  is disposed in the docking station  2 , current passes to the power supply  65  (via connector  21 ″) and charges the battery therein. Current also passes to the touch screen device  5  (via the internal docking connector  12 ) to charge a battery disposed therein. The power supply  65  can also draw power from a battery disposed in portable touch screen device  5  (through the internal docking connector  12 ) in order to recharge the battery (in power supply  65 ) and supply power to the circuitry disposed in the clam shell enclosure  1 . 
         [0182]    In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 8 , a wired connection to the automation system  70  is not envisioned. Therefore, during the initial device configuration and set-up operation, an external computing device (not shown) wirelessly communicates (via the Zigbee gateway  76 ′) with the processor  52  (via the Zigbee interface  64 ) to load the first and second application components into memory  43 . Thereafter, the processor  52  controls the USB switch  42  to establish a communication link between the processor  52  and the internal docking connector  12 . The processor  52  then installs the second application component on the touch screen device  5 . 
         [0183]    In another embodiment, the processor  52  can control the USB switch  42  to establish a communication link between the internal docking connector  12  and the external USB connector  13 . In this configuration, the touch screen device  5  communicates with an external computing device (not shown). This external computing device installs the second application component onto the touch screen device  5 . In still another embodiment, the second application component is installed directly onto the touch screen device  5  by means known to those skilled in the art. 
         [0184]    In normal wireless operation/mode (i.e., the enclosure  1  is not disposed in the docking station  2 ), the enclosure  1  is powered by the power supply  65 . Further, the processor  52  controls the USB switch  42  to establish the communication link between the processor  52  and the touch screen device  5  via the internal docking connector  12 . 
         [0185]    When a user wishes to control a function of a device that is in communication with the automation system  70 , such as muting the audio of the home theater  77 , for example (see  FIG. 4 ), the user simply presses the appropriate hard button  31 ,  32 ,  33  that is dedicated to, or programmed for, muting the audio. 
         [0186]    In one embodiment, the processor  52  executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command created by the user pressing the mute hard button (e.g., hard button  31  or  32 ) to the touch screen device  5  (via the connector  12 ). The second application component transmits the mute audio command via a wireless communication link (e.g., wireless Wi-Fi gateway  76 ) to the automation system  70 , which in turn transmits the mute audio command to the home theater  77 . Upon receiving the mute audio command, the home theater mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to the automation system  70 . The automation system  70  then wirelessly transmits the response signal to the touch screen device  5  via the wireless Wi-Fi gateway  76 . The second application component executing on the touch screen device  5  transmits the response signal to the first application component executing on the processor  52 . The processor  52  uses the received response signal to illuminate an indicator light  34  corresponding to audio muting being activated. 
         [0187]    In another embodiment, the processor  52  executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command directly to the automation system  70  via the Zigbee interface  64  and the wireless Zigbee gateway  76 ′. The automation system  70  then transmits the mute audio command to the home theater  77 . Upon receiving the mute audio command, the home theater mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to the automation system  70 . The automation system  70  then wirelessly transmits the response signal to the touch screen device  5  via the wireless Zigbee gateway  76 ′. The second application component executing on the touch screen device  5  transmits the response signal to the first application component executing on the processor  52 . The processor  52  uses the received response signal to illuminate an indicator light  34  corresponding to audio muting being activated. 
         [0188]    In still another embodiment, the processor  52  executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command directly to the automation system  70  via the Zigbee interface  64  and the wireless Zigbee gateway  76 ′. The automation system  70  then transmits the mute audio command to the home theater  77 . Upon receiving the mute audio command, the home theater mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to the automation system  70 . The automation system  70  then wirelessly transmits the response signal directly to the processor  52  via the wireless Zigbee gateway  76 ′ and the Zigbee interface  64 . The processor  52  uses the received response signal to illuminate an indicator light  34  corresponding to audio muting being activated. In this configuration, since controlling the external device does not involve using the touch screen device  5 , the enclosure  1  can control the external device even if the touch screen device  5  is turned off. 
         [0189]    Referring to  FIG. 9 , in yet another embodiment, an illustrative block diagram of the electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure  1  is shown. The electronic components disposed in the clam shell enclosure  1  include a processor  53 , an authentication coprocessor  41 , the memory  43 , a power supply  47 , the USB connector  13 , a Wi-Fi interface  66  in communication with a Wi-Fi antenna  68 , an infrared (IR) interface  67 , the external docking connector  22 , which includes connections for Ethernet communication and power, and the internal docking connector  12 , which also includes connections for USB communication and power. 
         [0190]    The processor  53  includes general purpose input/output (GPIO) interfaces that are in communication with one or more keypad matrices, which are in communication with the hard buttons  31 ,  32 ,  33 . The processor  53  further includes an inter-integrated circuit (I 2 C) (i.e., a digital bus) in communication with the authentication coprocessor  41 . The processor  53  further includes a serial peripheral interface (SPI) in communication with the Wi-Fi interface  66  in communication with a Wi-Fi antenna  68 . 
         [0191]    The processor further includes a universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter (UART) in communication with the IR interface  67 . The infrared (IR) interface  67  is in communication with the IR emitter  17  (shown in  FIG. 1 ). In various embodiments, the IR interface  67  includes one of IrDA, RC-5, and a proprietary infrared protocol. 
         [0192]    The processor  53  still further includes a transmit/receive (TX 1 /RX 1 ) interface in communication with the touch screen device  5  over a wired digital interface  731  through the internal docking connector  12 . In various embodiments, the wired digital interface  731  is one of a CAN bus, Ethernet, IEEE-1394 (Firewire), RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, and USB. 
         [0193]    The processor  53  still further includes a fast Ethernet channel (FEC) in communication over the FEC wired connection  431  with the external docking connector  22 . 
         [0194]    The processor  53  is in communication with the indicator lights  34  and the memory  43  (e.g., RAM, ROM, EPROM). In other embodiments, the processor  53  includes an on-board memory. The USB connector  13  is in communication with the touch screen device  5  via a fourth USB wired connection  134  to the internal docking connector  12 . The authentication coprocessor  41  and the external USB connector  13  both function as previously described above with respect to  FIG. 7 . 
         [0195]    The power supply  47  includes a rechargeable battery and a charging circuit known to those skilled in the art and supplies power to all the circuitry disposed in the clam shell enclosure  1 . The power supply  47  can be recharged via the external docking connector  22  when connected to the docking station  2 . The power supply  47  also allows a charging current from the docking station  2  (through the external docking connector  22 ) to pass through to the internal docking connector  12  and charge a battery disposed in the portable touch screen device  5 . Further, the power supply  47  can draw power from the battery disposed in portable touch screen device  5  (through the internal docking connector  12 ) in order to supply power to the circuitry disposed in the clam shell enclosure  1 . 
         [0196]    In one embodiment, during an initial device configuration and set-up operation, the enclosure  1  is seated in, and in communication with, the docking station  2 . In this configuration, the processor  53  communicates with an external computing device (not shown) through the docking connector  22  and the docking station  2 . This external computing device initially loads the first and second application components into memory  43 . Thereafter, the processor  53  then installs the second application component on the touch screen device  5  over the wired digital interface  731  via the docking connector  12   
         [0197]    In another embodiment, during the initial device configuration and set-up operation, the external computing device (not shown) wirelessly communicates with the processor  53  via the Wi-Fi interface  66  to load the first and second application components into memory  43 . Thereafter, the processor  53  then installs the second application component on the touch screen device  5  over the wired digital interface  731  via the docking connector  12 . 
         [0198]    In still another embodiment, the touch screen device  5  communicates with the external computing device (not shown) via the external USB connector  13  and the docking connector  12 . The external computing device installs the second application component onto the touch screen device  5 . In yet another embodiment, the second application component is installed directly onto the touch screen device  5  by means known to those skilled in the art. 
         [0199]    In operation, when a user wishes to control a function of a device that is in communication with the automation system  70 , such as muting the audio of the home theater  77 , for example (see  FIG. 4 ), the user simply presses the appropriate hard button  31 ,  32 ,  33  that is dedicated to, or programmed for, muting the audio. 
         [0200]    In one embodiment, in normal wireless operation/mode, the processor  53  executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command created by the user pressing the mute hard button (e.g., hard button  31  or  32 ) to the second application component executing on the touch screen device  5  (via the wired digital interface and the connector  12 ). The second application component transmits the mute audio command via a wireless communication link (e.g., wireless Wi-Fi gateway  76 ) to the automation system  70 , which in turn transmits the mute audio command to the home theater  77 . Upon receiving the mute audio command, the home theater mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to the automation system  70 . The automation system  70  then wirelessly transmits the response signal to the touch screen device  5  via the wireless Wi-Fi gateway  76 . The second application component executing on the touch screen device  5  transmits the response signal to the first application component executing on the processor  53 . The processor  53  uses the received response signal to illuminate an indicator light  34  corresponding to audio muting being activated. 
         [0201]    In another embodiment, the processor  53  executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command directly to the automation system  70  via the Wi-Fi interface  66  and the wireless Wi-Fi gateway  76 . The automation system  70  then transmits the mute audio command to the home theater  77 . Upon receiving the mute audio command, the home theater mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to the automation system  70 . The automation system  70  then wirelessly transmits the response signal to the touch screen device  5  via the wireless Wi-Fi gateway  76 . The second application component executing on the touch screen device  5  transmits the response signal to the first application component executing on the processor  53 . The processor  53  uses the received response signal to illuminate an indicator light  34  corresponding to audio muting being activated. 
         [0202]    In still another embodiment, the processor  53  executing the first application component captures and transmits the digital signal corresponding to the mute audio command directly to the automation system  70  via the Wi-Fi interface  66  and the wireless Wi-Fi gateway  76 . The automation system  70  then transmits the mute audio command to the home theater  77 . Upon receiving the mute audio command, the home theater  77  mutes the audio and transmits a response or status signal to the automation system  70 . The automation system  70  then wirelessly transmits the response signal directly to the processor  53  via the wireless Wi-Fi gateway  76  and the Wi-Fi interface  66 . The processor  53  uses the received response signal to illuminate an indicator light  34  corresponding to audio muting being activated. In this configuration, since controlling the external device does not involve using the touch screen device  5 , the enclosure  1  can control the external device even if the touch screen device  5  is turned off. 
         [0203]    In yet another embodiment, in normal wired operation/mode, the enclosure  1  is disposed in the docking station  2  and powered by an external power supply. In this configuration, the processor  53  executing the first application component bypasses the touch screen device  5  and communicates directly with the automation system  70  via the Ethernet connection on the external docking connector  22 . In other words, all commands from the enclosure  1  are transmitted directly (via the docking connector  22 ) to the automation system  70 . Likewise, all response signals are transmitted directly to the processor  53 . In this configuration, since controlling the external device does not involve using the touch screen device  5 , the enclosure  1  can control the external device even if the touch screen device  5  is turned off. 
         [0204]    Alternatively, the processor  53  and the touch screen device  5  can communicate control and response signals back and forth as described above with respect to normal wireless mode. 
         [0205]    In still another embodiment, the processor  53  transmits control signals to the automation system  70  or directly to the individual devices (e.g., television, DVD player, etc) via the IR interface  67  and IR emitter  17 . In this embodiment, response or status signals are received by the processor  53  from the controlled devices by the various means described above. 
         [0206]    As mentioned above, in various embodiments, the enclosure  1  includes one of IEEE-802.11 (Wi-Fi) and IEEE-802.15.4 (Zigbee) wireless digital interfaces in communication with the processor  52 ,  53 . In other embodiments, the wireless digital interface in communication with the processor includes one of IEEE-802.15.1 (Bluetooth), infiNET™, and a proprietary protocol in the ultra high frequency band. 
         [0207]    In still other embodiments, the wireless digital interface and/or the infrared interface  67  provides a communication link between the processor in the enclosure  1  and the touch screen device  5 . 
         [0208]    In yet another embodiment, when the enclosure  1  is seated in, and mated with, the docking station  2 , the docking station  2  is configured for transmitting streaming media received from an external device to the touch screen device  5 . 
         [0209]    In still another embodiment, when the enclosure  1  is seated in, and mated with, the docking station  2 , the docking station  2  transmits control signals received from the processor  50 ,  51 ,  52 ,  53  to an external device as Cresnet® control signals. 
         [0210]    Referring to  FIG. 10 , in another embodiment, the portable touch screen device  5  is encased within a circular enclosure  1 ′ that includes dedicated hard buttons  31 ′,  32 ′,  33 ′. In this embodiment, the portable touch screen device  5  is envisioned to be a smart phone with a touch screen. 
       LIST OF ACRONYMS USED IN THE DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0211]    The following is a list of the acronyms used in the specification in alphabetical order.
       A amperes   AV audio visual   CAN controller area network (data transfer protocol)   CPU central processing unit   DVD digital video disc   EPROM electronically programmable read only memory   FEC fast Ethernet channel   GPIO general purpose input/output   HVAC heating, ventilation, and air conditioning   I 2 C inter-integrated circuit (digital bus)   IEEE Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers   IR infrared   IrDA Infrared Data Association (data protocol)   OFN optical finger navigation   PC personal computer   POE power over Ethernet   RAM random access memory   ROM read only memory   RSI repetitive strain injury   RF4CE Radio Frequency for Consumer Electronics   RX receiver   SEL select   SPI serial peripheral interface   TTL transistor-transistor logic (data transmission voltage level)   TX transmitter   UART universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter   UHF ultra-high frequency   USB Universal Serial Bus   USB-OTG USB on-the-go   V volt   VDC volts, direct current       
 
       Alternate Embodiments 
       [0243]    Alternate embodiments may be devised without departing from the spirit or the scope of the invention. For example, in alternative embodiments the first control button and the second control button may be joysticks. 
       INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY 
       [0244]    To solve the aforementioned problems, the present invention is a unique portable smart touch screen device disposed in, and in communication with, a clam shell enclosure that includes one or more dedicated hard buttons, processing, and communications.