System module for detecting the use of playback devices via power difference measurement with wireless communication
A modular system with power measurement modules and wireless communication accurately distinguishes between active and standby modes of playback devices, addressing the challenge of differentiation in television research systems.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- DE202025002029
- Authority / Receiving Office
- DE · DE
- Patent Type
- Utility models
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-07-21
- Publication Date
- 2025-11-27
- Estimated Expiration
- 2035-07-31
AI Technical Summary
Existing television research systems struggle to accurately differentiate between the active use and standby mode of playback devices, and lack solutions for detecting external devices.
A modular system with power measurement modules connected between playback devices and power outlets, using wireless communication to a central module, which processes data via cable connection to a measuring device, accurately distinguishes between standby and active states based on power consumption differences.
Automated and accurate detection of playback device activity, enabling real-time monitoring and differentiation between active and standby modes, with reliable wireless communication and cable data transmission.
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Abstract
Description
Title of the invention
[0001] System module for detecting the use of playback devices via power difference measurement with wireless communication Technical field
[0002] The invention relates to a modular current measurement system, in particular for the automated detection of the operating status of playback devices (e.g. media players, game consoles, receivers) in the field of television research.
[0003] The measurement is performed via socket modules with wireless communication. State of the art
[0004] In existing television research systems, it is often unclear whether a playback device is actually being used or is only in standby mode.
[0005] Furthermore, some measuring devices generally lack solutions for detecting external devices. Object of the invention
[0006] The object of the invention is to provide a modular system that reliably detects the actual operating state of playback devices and transmits this wirelessly to a central module, which in turn communicates with a measuring device via a cable connection.
[0007] The goal is automated, accurate detection of the active use of individual devices. Solution to the task
[0008] The solution is achieved through the following characteristics: • Power measurement modules that are connected between the power outlet and the respective playback device and record the power consumption • The modules analyze the difference between standby and operating power (start-up) • Each current measurement module has an interface for wireless communication. • All modules connect to a central module that processes the received data. • This central module communicates with a measuring device in real time via a cable connection. Example of implementation
[0009] Several adapter plugs with built-in current sensors are plugged into the wall socket. The playback device (e.g., streaming box) is plugged into the adapter. The modules continuously measure the current flow. Based on stored threshold values, it is detected whether the device is active or in standby mode.
[0010] This information is transmitted wirelessly to a central module that monitors all power meters. The central module then forwards the status data via a cable connection to a higher-level measuring device, which automatically detects which input devices are currently in active use.
Claims
[1] System module for detecting the operating state of playback devices, characterized by , that - several current measurement modules are connected between the power outlet and the playback device, - each current measurement module measures the current power consumption of the connected device, - usage is determined by comparing standby power consumption and active power consumption, - the communication between the current measurement modules and a central module is wireless, - the central module is connected to a measuring device via an interface. [2] System module according to claim 1, characterized by , that each current measurement module has an internal memory for storing individual threshold values for different device types. [3] System module according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the central module evaluates status information from all connected power meters in real time and transmits it to the measuring device. [4] System module according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that multiple current measurement modules can be connected to the central module simultaneously. [5] System module according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the system is calibratable for different types of playback devices.