Patent Publication Number: US-2003231131-A1

Title: Remote control apparatus and method

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION  
       [0001] The invention relates to controls, and more particularly to remote controls and remote control methods.  
       BACKGROUND  
       [0002] A number of different devices and methods exist for remotely controlling functions on various types of apparatus including televisions, VCRs, stereo equipment, lighting equipment, all types of doors and windows, and the like. For example, devices and methods exist for remotely controlling functions on wheeled vehicles, such as cars, vans, minivans, sport utility vehicles, trucks, semi tractor-trailers, busses and the like, other vehicles such as boats and aircraft, and many other devices that may or may not be configured or intended to carry one or more passengers.  
       [0003] Conventional remote control devices used in many applications can be found in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. Regardless of the application however, a number of problems and limitations are shared by several types of remote control devices. Accordingly, the following discussion is presented by way of example only with regard to remote control devices for controlling apparatus on wheeled vehicles. The following discussion is therefore applicable to any other remote control device, including remote control devices for audio or video equipment, appliances and other home and office electronics, lights, fans, HVAC equipment, and the like.  
       [0004] With respect to wheeled vehicles, an example of a remote control device is the remote key fob, although such key fobs can also be provided for boats, aircraft, and other apparatus. The remote key fob is typically hand held and in some embodiments is configured for convenient attachment to a key ring. The fob can include various buttons that control functions of the vehicle, such as locking and unlocking functions of vehicle doors.  
       [0005] Key fobs such as those described above often include multiple user-manipulatable buttons for controlling the various vehicle functions. For example, one button can be provided on the fob for locking the vehicle doors, and another button may be provided for unlocking the vehicle doors. Typically, these buttons are labeled, include icons, or are otherwise provided with indicators to show their respective purposes. Oftentimes, the buttons are uniformly positioned in an arrangement on the fob providing a desired look and feel to the key fob.  
       [0006] A major advantage of key fobs over conventional keys relates to their ability to unlock vehicle doors, open vehicle doors, turn a vehicle alarm system on and off, turn vehicle lights on or off, start and/or stop the engine of the vehicle, or perform other functions before reaching the vehicle. This is especially convenient when a vehicle operator desires to perform functions of the vehicle from a distance or without having to manually perform such functions. For example, a vehicle locking or unlocking function performed by a fob can be useful when a user is carrying large or bulky items or is otherwise unable to easily manually lock or unlock the vehicle. In this respect, it can sometimes be difficult for the operator to even see the fob he or she is operating. In such cases, the operator may have to rely upon tactile sensing of the various buttons that control the vehicle operations. Uniformly positioned buttons and smoothly contoured fobs are somewhat detrimental to a user&#39;s ability to tactilely locate an appropriate button for a desired function, and can require some trial and error before the correct operation is performed.  
       [0007] Remote key fobs such as those described above are also becoming more and more common. When such fobs were first introduced, they carried with them a certain exclusivity and sense of novelty. As the cost of these fobs continues to decrease and as more auto makers provide remote key fobs with more cars, the level of exclusivity and novelty of such fobs has gradually decreased.  
       [0008] In light of the problems and limitations of the prior art described above, a need exists for remote control devices that are relatively simple in construction, inexpensive, and provide buttons or other user-manipulatable controls performing functions that are intuitive for a user based upon the locations of the buttons. Each embodiment of the present invention achieves one or more of these results.  
       SUMMARY  
       [0009] The present invention provides a controller for controlling at least one device located in or on an apparatus. The controller includes a housing that has a shape resembling the apparatus and a switch, operable to activate the device and coupled to the housing. The switch is located on the housing in a position that corresponds to the location of the device on the apparatus. As used herein and in the appended claims, the term “on” (with respect to a device “on” an apparatus or a switch “on” a remote control device) is understood to encompass relationships between elements in which an element is located entirely inside or outside of another element as well as relationships between elements in which an element located only partially inside or outside of another element. The term “on” does not indicate or imply a particular location, orientation, or positional relationship of one element with respect to another other than the fact that one element is part of, connected to, or mechanically associated with another element or structure.  
       [0010] The present invention provides a remote control mechanism for remotely controlling an apparatus. The apparatus includes components having locations on the apparatus, and devices that are associated with the components and operable to change the configuration of the components. The control mechanism can include a housing that is shaped to resemble the apparatus and various switches that are coupled to the housing. The switches are operable to control devices on the apparatus, and are located on the housing in positions that correspond to locations of the corresponding devices on the apparatus.  
       [0011] An example of a remote control according to the present invention is a fob for operating a plurality of mechanisms occupying an area of a vehicle. The fob includes a body shaped to approximate the vehicle shape and a plurality of switches coupled to the housing. The switches are operable to operate the mechanisms of the vehicle, and at least some of the switches are positioned on the body at locations that correspond to the areas occupied by the mechanisms of the vehicle.  
       [0012] The present invention also provides a method for remotely changing the configuration of a component on an apparatus. For example, in embodiments of the present invention in which the present invention is employed to remotely control a component of a vehicle, the component can be a door lock or other device on the vehicle. In such cases, the method can include providing a remote controller that has a contour resembling the vehicle shape. A switch can be positioned on the controller in a position that corresponds to the location of the component on the vehicle and is remotely coupled to the component for operative communication therewith. Operation of the switch changes the configuration of the component.  
       [0013] The present invention also provides a remote controller for controlling devices on an apparatus. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a plurality of portions that each have a spatial relationship with respect to the apparatus, and each device includes a location on at least one of the portions of the apparatus. The remote controller can include a body that has portions corresponding respectively to portions of the apparatus, and each controller portion can have a spatial relationship with respect to the body that is similar to the spatial relationship of a corresponding apparatus portion with respect to the apparatus. In such embodiments, a switch can be located on a first body portion and can be operable to control a device on the apparatus, the device being located on a first apparatus portion that corresponds to the first body portion.  
       [0014] The present invention also provides a method for remotely controlling a device on an apparatus. This method can include the following steps: identifying a portion of an apparatus to be controlled, in which the portion to be controlled has a first spatial relationship with respect to other portions of the apparatus, selecting a portion of a remote control from a plurality of portions of the remote control, wherein the selected portion of the remote control has a second spatial relationship with respect to other portions of the remote control that is similar to the first spatial relationship, operating a switch on the selected portion of the remote control, transmitting at least one signal from the remote control to the apparatus in response to operation of the switch, receiving the at least one signal at the apparatus, and activating a device associated with the portion of the apparatus.  
       [0015] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following detailed description, claims, and drawings.  
     
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
     [0016] The present invention is further described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show certain embodiments of the present invention. However, it should be noted that the invention as disclosed in the accompanying drawings is illustrated by way of example only. The various elements and combinations of elements described below and illustrated in the drawings can be arranged and organized differently to result in embodiments which are still within the spirit and scope of the present invention.  
     [0017] In the drawings, wherein like reference numerals indicate like parts:  
     [0018]FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an embodiment of the present invention;  
     [0019]FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of an alternative embodiment of the present invention;  
     [0020]FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of another alternative embodiment of the present invention;  
     [0021]FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of an integrated key according to an embodiment of the present invention;  
     [0022]FIG. 5 is a bottom perspective view of the integrated key of FIG. 4;  
     [0023]FIG. 6 is a top view of the integrated key of FIG. 4;  
     [0024]FIG. 7 is a side view of the integrated key of FIG. 4;  
     [0025]FIG. 8 is a left perspective view of a vehicle that is suitably configured for operation with the integrated key of FIG. 4; and  
     [0026]FIG. 9 is a right perspective view of the vehicle of FIG. 8. 
    
    
     [0027] Before the various embodiments of the invention are described in detail, it is to be understood that the present invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or being carried out in various ways. Also, it is understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including” and “comprising” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. The use of “consisting of” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass only the items listed thereafter.  
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION  
     [0028] FIGS.  1 - 3  schematically illustrate three embodiments of the present invention. In each illustrated embodiment, a remote control  2   a - 2   c  is operable to control one or more devices  6   a - 6   e  and  6   g - 6   j  of an apparatus  4   a - 4   c . The apparatus can be any apparatus having one or more devices that can be adapted to be remotely controlled. By way of example only, the apparatus can be a TV, VCR, DVD player, stereo, fan, door, window, computer, light, toy, appliance, answering machine, furnace, air conditioner, HVAC equipment, alarm system for auto, home, or office, and the like. In some cases, the apparatus can even be a home, building, vehicle, assembly, or other large structure that has devices adapted to be remotely controlled. For example, a home can have doors and/or windows that can be opened or closed remotely, lights that can be turned on or off remotely, an alarm system that can be remotely armed and disarmed, a heating and air conditioning system that can be changed remotely, a garage door that can be opened and closed remotely, and the like.  
     [0029] The remote control  2   a - 2   c  can be employed to control any such device, mechanism, or system  4   a - 4   c  in one or more different manners, such as the operational state of the device, mechanism, or system  4   a - 4   c  (e.g., speed, powered or armed state, position, orientation, brightness, loudness, and the like), one or more functions or operations of the device, mechanism, or system  4   a - 4   c , and the like.  
     [0030]FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a control mechanism  2   a  and associated apparatus  4   a  that is configured and operates according to an embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated, the apparatus  4   a  has a generally rectangular shape or contour and includes two schematically illustrated devices and/or mechanisms  6   a ,  6   b  that perform a function associated with operation of the apparatus  4   a . The control mechanism  2   a  has a shape that resembles the apparatus  4   a  (in the illustrated example, a generally rectangular shape or contour). Note that the control mechanism  2   a  need not necessarily have exactly the same shape or contour as the apparatus  4   a  in order to “resemble” the apparatus  4   a , and in some embodiments has a somewhat modified representation thereof. In some embodiments, the control mechanism  2   a  resembles the apparatus  4   a  only with such sufficiency to help a user identify the proper orientation of the control mechanism  2   a  and portions of the control mechanism  2   a  that correspond to portions of the apparatus  4   a . In some cases, the resulting control mechanism shape is significantly different from the shape of the apparatus  4   a , but still enables a user to readily identify the corresponding portions of the control mechanism  2   a  and the apparatus  4   a.    
     [0031] It should be noted that for an apparatus  4   a  having a relatively simple shape, e.g. a VCR or television, the degree to which the control mechanism  2   a  resembles the apparatus can be heightened. Alternatively, if the apparatus  4   a  has a more complex shape or contour (such as a house or a vehicle), the resemblance between the apparatus  4   a  and the control mechanism  2   a  can decrease. In this respect, the degree to which the control mechanism  2   a  resembles the apparatus  4   a  is generally a function of the specific application and can vary widely. In some embodiments, the control mechanism  2   a  resembles the apparatus  4   a  from a single direction or from only a few viewing directions, while in other embodiments, the control mechanism  2   a  can resemble the apparatus  4   a  from substantially any viewing direction.  
     [0032] Schematically illustrated on the control mechanism  2   a  are two switches  8   a ,  8   b  that remotely communicate with an associated one of the devices  6   a ,  6   b  on the apparatus  4   a . The switches  8   a ,  8   b  are positioned on the control mechanism  2   a  at locations that substantially correspond to the positions of the devices  6   a ,  6   b  on the apparatus  4   a . In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the switches  8   a ,  8   b  can be substantially any type or style of user-manipulatable control (i.e., “switch” as described below), such as push-buttons, toggle switches, rotary dials, joysticks, and the like.  
     [0033] The apparatus  4   a  illustrated in FIG. 1 is an apparatus that has a generally rectangular shape when viewed at least from one viewing angle. Accordingly, the remote control  2   a  also has a generally rectangular shape when viewed at least from one viewing angle. By way of example only, the apparatus  4   a  can be a stereo receiver having a volume control knob  6   a  located at a left vertically centered front location on the receiver and a tuner control knob  6   b  located at a right vertically centered front location on the receiver. The remote control  2   a  can have controls (e.g., dials, buttons, levers, or any other user-manipulatable devices) located in corresponding positions on the rectangular face of the remote control  2   a . Therefore, a user-manipulatable control  8   a  corresponding to and operable to adjust the volume control  6   a  of the receiver can be located at a left vertically centered location on the remote control  2   a , while a user-manipulatable control  8   b  corresponding to and operable to adjust the tuner control  6   b  of the receiver can be located at a right vertically centered location on the remote control  2   a . A user can therefore quickly identify a particular control on the remote control  2   a  needed to change a device of the apparatus  4   a  by identifying or knowing the location of the device on the apparatus.  
     [0034] In some embodiments, a user&#39;s intuition regarding the location of the device to be remotely controlled is not the actual location of the device, but rather the location of a user-manipulatable control on the device. For example, in the remotely-controlled stereo receiver described above, a user intuitively knows to manipulate the left control  8   a  on the remote control  2   a  to adjust the receiver volume by knowing or identifying the location of a volume control knob  6   a  on the receiver  4   a , even though the device that actually generates the change in volume can be located elsewhere in the receiver (e.g., amplification and control circuitry coupled to the volume control knob  6   a  and located elsewhere inside the housing of the receiver  4   a ).  
     [0035] Accordingly, in some embodiments of the present invention, it is more intuitive for a user-manipulatable control  8   a ,  8   b  on the remote control  2   a  to be located in a position corresponding to a control on the apparatus rather than to the actual device itself. Therefore, elements  6   a  and  6   b  in FIG. 1 can refer to controls used to operate devices on the apparatus  4   a  or to the devices themselves. In this regard, it should be noted that in some cases, the location of the control on the apparatus  4   a  is the same location as the device that the control operates. Also, in some cases the device to be remotely controlled has no other control associated with it, in which case the physical location of the device on the apparatus can be used to determine where the corresponding user-manipulatable control  8   a ,  8   b  should be located on the remote control  2   a.    
     [0036]FIG. 2 illustrates a second embodiment of the present invention that incorporates additional aspects of the present invention. As illustrated, the apparatus  4   b  and control mechanism  2   b  of FIG. 2 are generally triangularly shaped and the control mechanism  2   b  is shaped to resemble the apparatus  4   b . The devices  6   c ,  6   d ,  6   e  of the apparatus  4   b  are remotely controlled by respective switches  8   c ,  8   d ,  8   e  of the control mechanism  2   b . As with the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the switches  8   c ,  8   d ,  8   e  are positioned on the control mechanism  2   b  in locations corresponding to the positions of the devices  6   c ,  6   d ,  6   e  on the apparatus  4   b , and can be any type of user-manipulatable control. An additional switch  8   f  is provided on the control mechanism  2   b  and communicates with one or more of the devices  6   c ,  6   d ,  6   e  (e.g. all three devices as illustrated) to simultaneously or substantially control, adjust, or otherwise operate the devices  6   c ,  6   d ,  6   e , or to control all three devices  6   c ,  6   d ,  6   e  in a coordinated manner (i.e., one after the other in succession, two at once followed by a third, and the like). In this respect, multiple devices can be controlled using a single switch, and with a single operation (e.g. depressing the switch  8   f ), and a single device can be controlled by more than one switch. Because the switch  8   f  controls several devices  6   c ,  6   d ,  6   e , the switch  8   f  can be positioned in a generic location on the control mechanism  2   b  that does not necessarily correspond to the location of the devices  6   c ,  6   d ,  6   e  on the apparatus  4   b . Like the other switches  8   c ,  8   d ,  8   e , the switch  8   f  can be substantially any type or style of user-manipulatable control.  
     [0037]FIG. 3 illustrates a third embodiment of the present invention that incorporates still further aspects of the present invention. By way of example only, the apparatus  4   c  and control mechanism  2   c  are shown as having similar oblong shapes (although any other shape can be employed as desired). As with the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the control mechanism  2   c  has a shape resembling the apparatus  4   c . The devices  6   g ,  6   h ,  6   i ,  6   j  are controlled or otherwise operated by respective switches  8   g ,  8   h ,  8   i ,  8   j  positioned on the control mechanism  2   c  in locations corresponding to the positions of the devices  6   g ,  6   h ,  6   i ,  6   j  on the apparatus  4   c . An additional switch  8   k  is provided in a generic location on the control mechanism  2   c  and communicates with the devices  6   g ,  6   i  for simultaneous or substantially simultaneous control thereof or for any desired coordinated control of the devices  6   g ,  6   i . Alternatively, the additional switch  8   k  can communicate with any or all of the devices  6   g - 6   j  in accordance with the above teachings.  
     [0038] The embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 3 provides an example regarding how a particular motion or function of a user-manipulatable control  6   g ,  6   h ,  6   i ,  6   j  on the control mechanism  2   c  can mimic or otherwise be similar in one or more manners to the motion or function of a device  6   g ,  6   h ,  6   i ,  6   j  on the apparatus  4   c . For example, the device  6   g  on the apparatus  4   c  is configured to translate with respect to the apparatus  4   c . As other examples, the device  6   i  is rotatable with respect to the apparatus  4   c , while the device  6   j  is movable between first and second positions on the apparatus  4   c . It will be appreciated that the ranges of mobility of the devices  6   g ,  6   i ,  6   j  illustrated in FIG. 3 are provided as schematic representations of possible motions and functions associated with substantially any apparatus.  
     [0039] The switches  8   g ,  8   i ,  8   j  in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3 are configured such that operation of the switches  8   g ,  8   i ,  8   j  includes manipulating the switches  8   g ,  8   i ,  8   j  in a way that is similar to or mimics the movement or function of their respective devices  6   g ,  6   i ,  6   j . In this respect, the switch  8   g  is translatable with respect to the control mechanism  2   c , the switch  8   i  is rotatable with respect to the control mechanism  2   c , and the switch  8   j  is movable with respect to the control mechanism  2   c  between first and second positions. Thus, the location and operation of each switch  8   g ,  8   h ,  8   i ,  8   j  is somewhat intuitive to an operator who is familiar with the operation of the apparatus, but who may be unfamiliar with the control mechanism  2   c . The intuitive placement and operation of the switches can be highly advantageous in situations where it is unreasonable to expect an operator to learn the nuances of a complicated control mechanism.  
     [0040] An example of a remote control according to the present invention is illustrated in FIGS.  4 - 7 . Although a remote control according to the present invention can be used to control one or more devices on any apparatus as discussed above, the remote control illustrated in FIGS.  4 - 7  is a remote control for a vehicle. Specifically, FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate a control mechanism in the form of a remote control unit and optional key integrated into a single assembly (hereinafter an “integrated key”)  10  for controlling various devices, mechanisms, and operations of an apparatus such as, for example, a passenger vehicle. The integrated key  10  can include a housing  14 , an optional key protrusion  18  (illustrated in phantom), and a plurality of switches  22   a - 22   g  on the housing  14 . The housing  14  substantially comprises a remote key fob for remotely controlling the devices and mechanisms which perform or otherwise carry out operations and functions on the passenger vehicle. It will be appreciated that the key protrusion  18  is an optional feature of the remote control device illustrated in FIGS.  4 - 7 . In other embodiments, the device illustrated in FIGS.  4 - 7  is a fob having no key directly coupled to the housing  14 . In this respect an additional, otherwise conventional key including a key protrusion could be provided along with the integrated key  10  if required.  
     [0041] If With reference also to FIGS. 6 and 7, the illustrated housing  14  includes an outer surface that is generally shaped to resemble a passenger vehicle, and more can be generally shaped to resemble a passenger vehicle similar to the vehicle associated hi with the integrated key  10  or sharing features similar to those of the vehicle. In the illustrated embodiment for example, the housing  14  includes portions resembling or corresponding to a hood  26 , a windshield  30 , front doors  34 , rear doors  36 , a lift gate  38 , wheel wells  42  and a roof  46 . If desired, the housing  14  can include a hook portion  50 , aperture, or other feature suitable for securing the housing  14  to a key ring, chain, or other connecting element. The hook portion  50  can be integral with the housing  14  or can be a separate element attached to the housing  14  in any manner, such as by one or more conventional fasteners, adhesive or cohesive bonding material, a snap-fit, inter-engaging elements, and the like.  
     [0042]FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate a passenger vehicle  100  that is adapted to be controlled by the integrated key  10 . While the vehicle  100  forms no part of the present invention, it is further described herein to clarify the operation and configuration of the integrated key  10 . The illustrated passenger vehicle  100  is a vehicle generally known as a “mini-van” although the key  10  is suitable for use with substantially any vehicle including without limitation cars, buses, motorcycles, trucks, tractors, heavy equipment, and any of the other vehicles or devices described in the Background above.  
     [0043] The illustrated vehicle  100  includes various components that are common among automobiles, including a hood  126 , a windshield  130 , front doors  134 , rear doors  136 , a lift gate  138 , wheel wells  142  and a roof  146 . As mentioned above, the housing  14  of the integrated key  10  can be shaped to resemble the vehicle  100 . Accordingly, one or more of the various housing portions  26 ,  30 ,  34 ,  36 ,  38 ,  42 , and  46  can correspond to and resemble respective components  126 ,  130 ,  134 ,  136 ,  138 ,  142 , and  146  of the vehicle. Thus, reference numerals assigned to the vehicle portions in the present application are the same as those assigned to their corresponding housing portions, increased by one hundred.  
     [0044] Certain components of the vehicle  100  are movable or otherwise adjustable between various states or configurations. For example, the rear doors  136  can be of the sliding type such that they are slidable between an open configuration and a closed configuration (see FIGS. 8 and 9). Similarly, the front doors  134  and the lift gate  138  can be adjustable between open and closed configurations (also shown in FIGS. 8 and 9). In general, the front doors  134 , the rear doors  136 , and the lift gate  138  provide access to the interior of the vehicle  100 .  
     [0045] As is well known in the vehicle industry, it is preferred for each of the vehicle doors and the lift gate to be lockably securable in their closed configuration. In this respect, each component, e.g. both front doors  134 , both rear doors  136 , and the lift gate  138  may include a locking mechanism  122   a - 122   e  that is operable to selectively lock, latch, or otherwise secure the component in the closed configuration. In many applications, the locking mechanisms  122   a - 122   e  (which can sometimes include locking latches) are electromechanical devices that are operable by push buttons or other controls located within the vehicle  100 . Such locking mechanisms are commonly referred to as power locks. In this respect, the mechanisms  122   a - 122   e  are generally also operable to unlock or unlatch their respective components, such that the components may be opened. Although the mechanisms  122   a - 122   e  are typically positioned on or near their respective components (e.g. the doors  134 ,  136  and the lift gate  138 ), it will be appreciated that the mechanisms  122   a - 122   e  can be positioned completely or partially on or in other portions of the vehicle interior or exterior, or completely or partially within other vehicle components that are remote from their respective components.  
     [0046] In some vehicles  100 , mechanism  122   a  is operable to lock and unlock a left front door  134 , and mechanism  122   b  is operable to lock and unlock a right front door  134 . Similarly, mechanisms  122   c  and  122   d  can be operable to lock and unlock the rear doors  136  in some vehicles. Also in some vehicles  100 , mechanisms  122   c  and  122   d  are further operable to automatically open and close their respective rear doors  136 . In the illustrated vehicle  100  for example, opening the rear doors  136  generally comprises sliding the doors  136  rearwardly to permit access to the vehicle  100  interior. In this respect, mechanisms  122   c  and  122   d  can comprise both a locking mechanism for door locking and/or unlocking functions and an actuating mechanism for door opening and/or closing functions. Accordingly, each such mechanism (or their combination) can comprise multiple operating components for performing such functions. With further reference to the mini-van illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, one or more mechanisms  122   e  are operable to lock and unlock a lift gate  138 , to automatically open and close the lift gate  138 , or to perform both functions. In this regard, such mechanism(s) can be used to open, close, lock, or unlock a trunk or another type of rear door, or to perform any combination of these functions.  
     [0047] The user-manipulatable elements  22   a - 22   g  illustrated in FIGS.  4 - 7  and described herein are referred to as “switches”. As will be described in greater detail below, the elements  22   a - 22   g  can take a number of different forms, each one of which is operable by a user to input a command to the integrated key  10 . By way of example only, the elements  22   a - 22   g  can be buttons, keys, slides, toggle or throw-switches, knobs, levers, dials, joysticks, or any other type of element, device, or structure (or any combination of such elements, devices, or structures) that can be manipulated by a user to input a command to the integrated key  10 . The term “switch” as used herein and in the appended claims is intended to encompass all such elements, devices, and structures, including those listed above with respect to FIGS.  1 - 3 .  
     [0048] With continued reference to the illustrated embodiment of FIGS.  4 - 7 , each switch  22   a - 22   e  is configured to remotely activate or control a respective one of the locking mechanisms  122   a - 122   e . The remaining switches  22   f  and  22   g  remotely activate or control multiple or alternate mechanisms or devices of the vehicle  14 , as will be described further below. As used herein and in the appended claims, the terms “control”, “activate” and “activating” refer to operation of a device, element, or structure regardless of the complexity involved in such operation. For example, such operation can include the initiation or implementation of single-function operations (such as on/off operations, open/close operations, and the like), or can instead include more complicated operations requiring the execution, initiation, or implementation of a plurality of steps, instructions, or operations (such as the movement, adjustment, and reconfiguration of multiple devices, items, or mechanisms in specific or nonspecific order). In addition, the term “control” includes the termination or halting of such operations at any time.  
     [0049] In the embodiment of FIGS.  4 - 7 , the switches  22   a ,  22   b  are positioned on the housing  14  on or generally near the portions  34  that resemble or represent the front doors  134  of the vehicle  100 . Accordingly, the switches  22   a ,  22   b  are configured to remotely communicate with the mechanisms  122   a  and  122   b  such that in response to operation of one of the switches  22   a ,  22   b , a respective one of the mechanisms  122   a ,  122   b  locks or unlocks a corresponding front door  134  of the vehicle  100 . In this way, the left and right front doors  134  can be individually locked or unlocked using the integrated key  10 . In the illustrated embodiment, the switches  22   a ,  22   b comprise push buttons that are operable by depressing the switches  22   a ,  22   b . However, as discussed above, other types and configurations of switches can instead be employed as desired.  
     [0050] The switches  22   a ,  22   b  can be configured to operate in a mode wherein depressing a switch (switch  22   a , for example) unlocks the left front door  134 , and depressing the switch  22   b  unlocks the right front door  134 . Of course, many alternative operating sequences are possible, such as prolonged depression, double-depression, rapid sequential depression, or any other manner of operating either or both switches  22   a ,  22   b  either alone or in combination. By way of example only, the key  10  can be configured so that depressing the switch  22   a  twice within a relatively short period of time generates unlocking of both front doors  134  as well as the rear doors  136 . As another example, the key can also or instead be configured so that brief depression of either switch  22   a ,  22   b  causes only the corresponding front door  134  to unlock, while continued depression of either switch  22   a ,  22   b  causes both front doors  134  to unlock. Still other switch configurations and manners of switch operation are possible, some of which are well known to those skilled in the art. All such switch configurations and manners of switch operation fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention.  
     [0051] With continued reference to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIGS.  4 - 7 , switches  22   c  and  22   d  are positioned on the housing  14  and are configured in accordance with the teachings set forth above with respect to switches  22   a  and  22   b . As such, the switches  22   c  and  22   d  are positioned on the housing  14  in the vicinity of the housing portions  36  that resemble the rear doors  136  of the vehicle  100 . Like the switches  22   a ,  22   b  above, each switch  22   c ,  22   d  communicates with a respective one of the door mechanisms  122   c ,  122   d , such that in response to operation of one of the switches  22   c ,  22   d , a respective one of the mechanisms  122   c ,  122   d  locks or unlocks a corresponding rear door  136 . Furthermore, because the mechanisms  122   c ,  122   d  (which can each comprise several mechanisms performing different door functions) can also be operable to open and close the rear doors  136 , the switches  22   c ,  22   d  in some embodiments are configured to provide control for such operations as well.  
     [0052] In contrast to the button-type switches  22   a ,  22   b  described above and illustrated in the figures, some embodiments of the present invention (for example, those embodiments configured for use with a minivan) include switches  22   c  and  22   d  that are slidable with respect to the housing  14 . In this respect, sliding movement of the switches  22   c  and  22   d  corresponds to and can even mimic the sliding movement required to manually open and close the rear doors  136  of the vehicle  100 . In some embodiments, the switches  22   c  and  22   d  are biased toward a central position with respect to the housing  14  (such as by an internal leaf, coil, torsion, or other spring attached to the switches  22   c ,  22   d , by a resilient mount, pad, substrate, or other resilient element beneath each switch  22   c ,  22   d  or otherwise oriented with respect to each switch  22   c ,  22   d  to provide a biasing force thereagainst, and the like).  
     [0053] When either slidable switch  22   c ,  22   d  of the embodiment illustrated in FIGS.  4 - 7  is actuated to slide rearwardly with respect to the housing  14 , a corresponding rear door  136  of the vehicle  100  is opened. Specifically, such sliding movement results in operation of the switch  22   c ,  22   d  and subsequent unlocking and opening of the corresponding rear door  136 . Similarly, when either slidable switch  22   c ,  22   d  is actuated to slide forwardly with respect to the housing  14 , a corresponding rear door  136  of the vehicle  100  is closed (e.g. by an electric motor, a suitable mechanical, pneumatic, or hydraulic actuator, or a combination thereof, and the like). Of course the rear door  136  can also be opened and closed manually if so desired. In addition, some embodiments of the invention may be slidable in a single direction corresponding to opening or closing of the rear doors  136 .  
     [0054] In alternative embodiments of the present invention, the switches  22   c ,  22   d  are dual-position switches, such that each switch  22   c ,  22   d  is detently engageable in a forward position corresponding to closure of the corresponding rear door  136  and/or in a rearward position corresponding to opening of the corresponding rear door  136 . In still further embodiments, the switches  22   c ,  22   d  can be combination sliding/push button switches. In this respect, such switches  22   c ,  22   d  are slidable in substantially the same manner and achieve substantially the same result as the various sliding switches described above. In addition however, when such switches  22   c ,  22   d  are in their centrally biased, forwardly biased, or detently engaged positions, the switches  22   c ,  22   d  can also be depressed, in which case the switches  22   c ,  22   d  can be operable similarly to the switches  22   a ,  22   b  described above in order to lock and unlock the rear doors  136 . Also or alternatively, if a rear door  136  is open, depression of a corresponding switch  22   c ,  22   d  can result in operation of the corresponding device  122   c ,  122   d  to move the rear door  136  to its closed position and to subsequently lock the rear door(s)  136 . One having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that still other manners of switch actuation and operation are possible, each one of which falls within the spirit and scope of the present invention.  
     [0055] Of course, not all vehicles are configured like the vehicle  100  (mini-van) illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9. Accordingly, a number of alternative manners of operating the switches  22   c ,  22   d  are possible to control locking and unlocking operations and/or to open and close the corresponding rear door(s)  136  of the vehicle  100 . For example, 4-door vehicles, which have doors generally only opened and closed manually, can also be controlled by the switches  22   c ,  22   d , in which case the switches would likely only control the locking and unlocking of the doors. Control of 4-door vehicles having mechanisms for automatically opening and closing the doors are also contemplated. In the event the vehicle is a 2-door vehicle, the switches  22   c ,  22   d  can be eliminated from the housing  14  altogether. Furthermore, rear-door switches  22   c ,  22   d  can be actuated in any number of different manners (as described above with reference to switches  22   a ,  22   b ) to perform a number of different functions associated with the rear doors  136  of the vehicle  100 . For example, the switches  22   c ,  22   d  can be actuated rapidly, can be depressed for a prolonged period, or can be operated in a number of other manners to perform different functions upon the vehicle.  
     [0056] With continued reference to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIGS.  4 - 7 , the switch  22   e  is positioned on the housing  14  on or in the vicinity of the portion  38  of the housing  14  that resembles the vehicle lift gate  138 . Accordingly, and in keeping with the above teachings, the switch  22   e  can communicate with the mechanism  122   e  to control the lift gate  138 . Much like the mechanisms  122   c  and  122   d , the device  122   e  (which can comprise several mechanisms performing different lift gate functions) can also be operable to lock, unlock, open, and/or close the lift gate  138 . As such, the specific operation of the switch  22   e  can be such that the motion associated with switch operation corresponds to and can even mimic or resemble the resultant motion of the lift gate  138 .  
     [0057] In some embodiments of the present invention, the switch  22   e  is slidably mounted to the housing  14  such that the switch  22   e  is operable in a manner similar to the switches  22   c  and  22   d . In this respect, sliding the switch  22   e  upwardly and forwardly can result in operation of the device  122   e  to unlock and subsequently open the lift gate  138 . As previously mentioned with respect to the switches  22   c  and  22   d , the switch  22   e  can be biased toward one position, or can include a detent arrangement to detently secure the switch  22   e  in one or more certain positions corresponding to the positions of the lift gate  138 . In other embodiments, the switch  22   e  can be pivotable with respect to the housing such that pivoting the switch  22   e  in one direction unlocks and subsequently opens the lift gate  138 , and pivoting the switch  22   e  in an opposite direction closes and subsequently locks the lift gate  138 .  
     [0058] Of course, if the vehicle  100  is a conventional automobile rather than a minivan as illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, the switch  22   e  can be configured to operate another device of the automobile (e.g., the automobile trunk or hatchback), or can be eliminated altogether. In other embodiments of the invention, the switch  22   e  can comprise a push button and can be operable simply to unlock and/or open the lift gate  138 . In such an embodiment, the switch  22   e  can be configured to be depressed once to unlock the lift gate  138  and depressed a second time to open the lift gate  138 , can be configured to be depressed once to unlock the lift gate  138  and depressed a prolonged time to open or unlock and open the lift gate  138 , or can be configured in a variety of other operating manners and sequences to generate different results and to control the lift gate  138  in other ways.  
     [0059] Although several of the switches ( 22   a - 22   e ) of the illustrated embodiment described above are actuatable to unlock, lock, open and/or close a door  134 ,  136  or lift gate  138 , other switches can be provided on the housing  14  to communicate with additional mechanisms for opening, closing, locking, unlocking, activating, deactivating, or otherwise controlling other vehicle components. One example of such an additional switch is a switch configured to control the state and position of the hood  126  of the vehicle  100 . Such a switch could be located on the portion  26  of the housing  14  that resembles the hood  126  of the vehicle  100 . Another example of such an additional switch is a switch configured to lock, unlock, open and/or close a fuel door on the vehicle  100 . Such a switch could be located on the portion of the housing  14  resembling a fuel door. Still another example of an additional switch is a switch configured to remotely start the vehicle&#39;s engine. Such a switch might also be located on the portion  26  of the housing  14  that resembles the hood  126  of the vehicle  100 . In general, any type or style of switch can be positioned on the housing  14  in an area that generally corresponds to the position on the vehicle  100  of the component that the switch controls. All such switches and their location upon the integrated key  10  fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention.  
     [0060] With reference again to the illustrated embodiment of FIGS.  4 - 7 , switch  22   f  is configured to communicate with each device  122   a - 122   e  and is operable to simultaneously lock the front doors  134 , the rear doors  136 , and the lift gate  138 . Switch  22   f  differs from switches  22   a - 22   e  in that switch  22   f  is not positioned on the housing  14  in a position corresponding to the location of the device the switch  22   f  controls. As illustrated, the switch  22   f  in the embodiment of FIGS.  4 - 7  is positioned on the portion  46  that substantially resembles the vehicle roof  146 . Although the switch  22   f  (or any other switch that has no identifiable position on the housing  14  corresponding to a particular device or location on the vehicle  100 ) can be positioned substantially anywhere on the housing  14 , the illustrated switch  22   f  is in a location that does not create unnecessary confusion with respect to the vehicle operation the switch  22   f  is configured to control.  
     [0061] In the illustrated embodiment for example, the switch  22   f  simultaneously locks the various vehicle components, although in some embodiments switch  22   f  can also be operable to unlock the vehicle components. The switch  22   f  can also or instead be configured to initiate various other vehicle operations based upon the manner in which the switch  22   f  is manipulated (e.g., repeated depressions, a prolonged depression, sliding of the switch  22   f  in one or more different directions, and the like). For example, in some embodiments, depressing the switch  22   f  once locks the vehicle doors  134 ,  136  and lift gate  138 , while depressing the switch  22   f  a second time arms a vehicle security system. Such arming of the security system can be signaled to the operator by, for example, a short blast of the vehicle horn and/or flashing of the vehicle lights.  
     [0062] Although any or all of the switches  22   a - 22   f  of the integrated key  10  can be unlabeled or can otherwise be void of indicia or other information for a user, each switch  22   a - 22   f  described above can instead or in addition be shaped and/or include an icon printed thereon such that the vehicle operation that the particular switch controls is relatively apparent to an operator. Alternatives to icons include text, other graphics, and the like. By way of example only, the switches  22   a  and  22   b  illustrated in the figures include icons representative of an unlocking operation. Similarly, the switches  22   c  and  22   d  illustrated in the figures include icons representative of a door-opening operation, while the switches  22   e  and  22   f  illustrated in the figures include icons that also make the associated vehicle operation relatively clear to an operator. Thus, the integrated key  10  can include a plurality of switches that are positioned, configured, and labeled to afford intuitive operation of the switches in order to control various vehicle components.  
     [0063] As indicated above, in some embodiments, the integrated key can include one or more switches that do not have a single associated location on a vehicle  100  or that have no associated location on a vehicle  100 . For example, switch  22   g  in the illustrated embodiment does not generally correspond to the vehicle location of the component that switch  22   g  controls. Switch  22   g  is what is known in the art as a “panic button.” Specifically, switch  22   g  is configured such that depression or activation of the switch  22   g  causes the vehicle lights to flash and the vehicle horn to sound repeatedly. The panic button is intended to allow an operator to draw attention to the vehicle if the operator so desires. Because the panic button controls vehicle components that are located throughout the vehicle, positioning the switch  22   g  on the housing  14  in a location generally corresponding to the location of the components on the vehicle  100  is somewhat precluded.  
     [0064] Accordingly, the switch  22   g  in the illustrated embodiment is positioned on the housing  14  on or in the vicinity of the housing portion  42  that resembles one of the vehicle wheel wells  142 . Such position is generally chosen for aesthetic and/or design reasons. In some embodiments, the word “PANIC” is displayed on the housing  14  near the switch  22   g  to clarify the function and operation of the switch  22   g . While the illustrated switch  22   g  does not carry an icon or other indicia, the switch  22   g  could instead be configured to display such an icon or indicia, such as, for example, an exclamation mark or a horn.  
     [0065] In some embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in FIGS.  4 - 7 , the housing  14  and the switches  22   a - 22   g  are configured so that the switches  22   a - 22   g  are at least partially recessed with respect to the outer surface of the housing  14 . In this respect, the likelihood of unintentional operation of the switches is reduced. In addition, such a recessed configuration also generally improves the overall aesthetic appeal of the integrated key  10 . It should be appreciated that any or all of the above described switches may be provided on a single housing  14  as desired for a particular application. In addition to the examples presented above, other vehicle components or features that can or could otherwise be controlled by various types of switches include vehicle lights (both interior and/or exterior), vehicle windows, vehicle seats, vehicle mirrors, vehicle climate control systems, vehicle suspension systems (e.g. to lower the vehicle for entry), vehicle sunroofs and convertible tops, vehicle sound systems, and substantially any other vehicle component, function, or operation, without limitation.  
     [0066] The optional key protrusion  18  is conventional in nature, and is machinable to provide any desired key profile. The key protrusion  18  is insertable into the locks and ignition of the vehicle  100  in order to lock and unlock the various doors  134 ,  136 , lift gate  138 , or other parts of the vehicle  100  as well as to activate and deactivate the ignition of the vehicle  100  as is well known in the art. In some embodiments, the key protrusion  18  is retractable or foldable with respect to the housing  14  such that the housing  14  substantially surrounds the key protrusion  18  in one state of the key protrusion  18 , or such that the key protrusion  18  lies generally adjacent to the housing  14  in one state of the key protrusion  18 . Such foldability and/or retractability can reduce the size of the integrated key  10 , thereby making the key  10  easier to carry and store. In some embodiments of the invention, the key protrusion  18  is completely removed from the housing, such that the housing  14  and an additional, separate key are provided for operation of the vehicle  100 .  
     [0067] As described above, the integrated key  10  can be employed to remotely control devices on a number of different vehicle types. For example, the integrated key  10  can be employed to remotely control devices on automobiles (2 and 4-door, convertible or non-convertible, and the like), trucks (e.g., pick-up trucks, utility trucks, flat-beds, extended cabs having one or more rear doors, etc.), vans, mini-vans, sport utility vehicles, and the like. In this regard, the number, types, and functions of switches  22  on the housing  14  can be significantly different than that illustrated in FIGS.  4 - 7 . By way of example, a two-door automobile or a two-door pickup truck can have two door switches  22   a ,  22   b  for unlocking and/or locking the vehicle doors  134 , a van having a single side door, two front doors, and two rear doors can have five dedicated door switches for unlocking and/or locking each door, and the like. The integrated key  10  can therefore be provided with any number of switches  22  in different locations on the housing  14  to reflect the corresponding locations of vehicle devices operable by such switches  22 . If desired, one or more additional switches can be located in other areas of the housing  14 , each of such additional switches capable of controlling two or more devices on the vehicle (e.g., in a manner similar to the switch  22   f  in the illustrated embodiment).  
     [0068] In addition, the various switches  22  on the housing  14  can be adapted to operate any number of different devices on the vehicle. For example, a switch  22  can be located on the front or rear of the housing  14  for controlling the front and/or rear lights of the vehicle  100 , a switch  22  can be located on the top of the housing  14  for controlling an interior light of the vehicle  100  or a sunroof of the vehicle  100 , a switch can be located on the rear of the housing  14  for locking, unlocking, opening, and/or closing a trunk, tailgate, or hatchback of the vehicle  100 , one or more switches  22  can be located on the sides of the vehicle  100  for controlling one or more windows of the vehicle  100 , a switch  22  can be located on the top front of the housing (i.e., corresponding to the location of the vehicle&#39;s engine or to the ignition of the vehicle  100 ) for starting or stopping the vehicle&#39;s engine, a switch  22  can be located on the front of the housing  14  for operating the vehicle&#39;s horn, and the like. The housing  14  can have any number of other switches  22  positioned in locations corresponding to any device on or in the vehicle  100  for remotely controlling such device(s).  
     [0069] Although the integrated key  10  in the illustrated embodiment has several switches  22  for remotely operating several devices  122  on a vehicle  100 , other embodiments can have can have fewer or more switches  22  for operating any number of devices  122  of the same or different type. For example, the housing  14  can have a single button for unlocking and/or locking all doors  134 ,  136  of a vehicle  100 . In other embodiments, the housing  14  can have more switches  22  than shown in FIGS.  4 - 7  for controlling more devices  122  on the vehicle  100 .  
     [0070] In some embodiments (such as the illustrated embodiment described above), the housing  14  of the integrated key  10  has the shape of a vehicle  100 . This shape can be the shape of any vehicle  100 , and need not necessarily match the shape of the vehicle  100  which is associated with the integrated key  10 . However, in some embodiments, the housing  14  resembles the vehicle  100  associated with the integrated key  10 , and can be a modified or simplified version of the shape of the vehicle  100  (e.g., streamlined, flatter, sleeker, and the like). In other embodiments, the housing  14  does not resemble the shape of a vehicle  100  or the vehicle  100  associated with the integrated key  10 . In some of these embodiments, the various switches  22  can still be in locations on the housing  14  corresponding to the locations of devices  122  controlled by the switches  22  as described above. By way of example only, a round or rectangular housing  14  can have switches  22  on opposite sides corresponding to and controlling door locks and/or door windows on opposite sides of the vehicle  100 . As another example, such a housing  14  can have a switches  22  on opposite ends of the housing  14  for operating a rear door lock and headlights of the vehicle, respectively. Therefore the housing  14  according to the present invention can have any shape desired while still having switches  22  located in positions thereon corresponding to positions of devices  122  on the vehicle  100 .  
     [0071] While the exemplary drawings and description above have thus far been directed toward a vehicle and a corresponding integrated remote key, the teachings of the invention are applicable to substantially any device that remotely controls any apparatus, as discussed above with respect to FIGS.  1 - 3 . By way of example only, a remote system for controlling various operations of a house might be provided. The system can include a hand-held controller contoured to resemble the house and having switches located in accordance with the above teachings. The switches can be operable to control opening and closing of garage doors, locking and unlocking of doors and windows, switching on and off of lights, as well as additional functions, all of which fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention. As another example, a remote system for controlling various household electronic devices or appliances might be provided. One specific example of such a system might include a housing contoured to resemble a stove-top/oven combination. Switches operable to control the heat level of the burners could be provided in appropriate locations on the housing, as could switches to control the heat level of the oven. Other household appliances or home electronics could be controlled by a similarly configured device.  
     [0072] As presented above, the invention may take the form of substantially any object, device, or mechanism that could have functions, operations, or configurations suitable for remote control. As such, the descriptions above are provided for exemplary purposes only and should not be regarded as limiting.  
     [0073] Various features of the invention are set forth in the following claims.