Thomson Consumer Electronics Inc.

Timothy Curtis Mann

John Herbert Stevens

A battery charging apparatus anticipates usage and thus provides a charged battery available for use. In addition the charging regimen employed substantially eliminates memory effects in NICAD batteries. The battery charging apparatus comprises a power supply for generating a controllable battery charging current which is responsive to battery status. A plurality of calendars, stored in PROM, are user selectable to form a custom calendar. User specific event dates may be added to produce a composite calendar. A microprocessor maintains a real time clock calendar and executes a calendar algorithm. Upon the occurrence of a composite calendar event date, the microprocessor generates a control signal for initiating the battery charging current. The microprocessor also produces a status message display. Message data is stored in PROM and is used to generate a video signal for monitor display. The video signal is also coupled to an RF modulator for TV receiver display. Upon cessation of charging, due to completion or malfunction, battery identification and charging data are stored in memory to form a battery history.

Battery charger with calendar control

A docking and control apparatus for portable electronic entertainment devices comprises a power supply for generating a battery eliminating current. A plurality of calendars are stored in memory and are user selectable. An algorithm combines the selection to form a custom calendar. The algorithm also combines user specific event dates, names and control functions to produce a consolidated calendar. The control functions may include choices of message displayed upon event occurrence, and devices and functions to be triggered at event occurrence. The time of activation within the event day may be specified. The user may generate a specific message which may be stored for recall. The algorithm anticipates event occurrence and generates appropriate advisory messages. A microprocessor maintains a real time clock calendar and executes a calendar algorithm. Upon the occurrence of a consolidated calendar event date, and if specified at a time within the event day, the microprocessor generates a control signal specific to the control function stored with the event. The control signal may generate a message from a plurality stored in memory, or may recall a user generated message. The control signal may initiate operation of a device coupled to the docking apparatus. The microprocessor control functions may be manually initiated. The microprocessor also produces a status message display. Message data read from memory is formatted to generate a video signal for video monitor display. The video signal is also coupled to an RF modulator for TV receiver display.

Growing community of inventors

Morristown, IN, United States of America

Timothy Curtis Mann