UNIVERSAL REMOTE CONTROL

Abstract

This utility model pertains to electronics, specifically universal remote controls. The technical result is expanded functionality and application, simplified manufacturing and modification, and reduced wiring within the housing. This is achieved by creating a universal remote control comprising a portable housing, controls, a computing module, a display, a battery, and a motherboard with an integrated power supply subsystem and charge controller.According to the utility model, the motherboard carrier comprises a microcontroller for processing control signals and a data exchange interface with a computing module. The front panel controls include four analog joysticks and one modular button block, each of which contains an electronic means for expanding input or output lines, pass-through connectors for power supply and a digital serial communication bus, wherein the blocks are connected in series and connected to the motherboard carrier via this bus. The rear panel controls are connected via an input / output board connected to the motherboard carrier via a universal expansion interface with power supply lines, digital communication lines, and analog / digital input / output lines. The motherboard carrier is equipped with at least one standard connector for installing a replaceable communication module or expanding functionality. 6 pp. fils, 5 fig.

Description

[0001] The field of technology to which the utility model belongs.

[0002] The utility model relates to the field of electronics, and more specifically to universal remote controls containing a portable housing, controls, a computing module, a display, a battery, and a motherboard with a built-in power supply subsystem and a charge controller.

[0003] Prior art of the utility model.

[0004] A universal remote control is known under patent RU 2778574 C1 (published in 2022), comprising a portable housing; a monitor (display), control element(s) (joystick, button, on / off buttons) built into the housing; a microprocessor (computing module), a transmitting and receiving unit, connectors for connecting a cable and a charger; a battery and other elements (non-volatile memory, serviceability indicator, etc.). The remote control is designed for remote control of a complex technical object and displaying information to the operator.

[0005] Prototype disadvantages:

[0006] - the prototype is specialized for a specific class of objects (guided missiles) and is not oriented towards unified connection / reconfiguration for various technical devices (for example, UAVs, robots, etc.) without design modifications;

[0007] - the prototype does not provide for a modular design of controls (replaceable / pluggable blocks of buttons / input controls), which is why changing the layout / functions of the controls requires reworking the design / wiring / electronics;

[0008] - the prototype has a limited set of analog controls (a joystick is built in), and does not disclose the implementation of the remote control with four analog joysticks, which reduces the convenience and functionality when controlling complex objects with several degrees of freedom;

[0009] - the prototype does not describe a universal expansion interface for connecting additional input / output / communication modules (in your sense), which allows configuring the remote control for different objects without changing the base board.

[0010] Thus, the technical task of the utility model is to create a universal portable remote control, the design of which ensures adaptation to various remotely controlled technical devices (including robots, UAVs, etc.) without changing the basic hardware of the remote control and with the ability to implement various configurations / numbers of controls.

[0011] Disclosure of utility model.

[0012] The present utility model is primarily intended to provide a universal remote control comprising a portable housing, controls, a computing module, a display, a battery, and a motherboard with a built-in power supply subsystem and a charge controller, which allows for the expansion of the functionality and scope of application of the remote control due to modularity; simplification of manufacture and modifications (of different designs) due to modular button blocks and a unified rear panel connection interface; reduction of wiring inside the housing, which is the technical result of the present utility model.

[0013] To achieve this goal, the motherboard carrier contains a microcontroller for processing signals of control elements and an interface for exchanging data with a computing module, the front panel control elements include four analog joysticks and at least one modular block of buttons, each of which contains an electronic means for expanding input and / or output lines, pass-through connectors for power supply and a digital serial communication bus, wherein the blocks are connected in series and connected to the motherboard carrier via this bus, wherein the rear panel control elements are connected via an input / output board connected to the motherboard carrier via a universal expansion interface with power lines, digital communication and analog / digital input / output, and the motherboard carrier is provided with at least one standard connector for installing a replaceable communication module and / or expanding functionality.

[0014] Thanks to these advantageous characteristics, it becomes possible to quickly adapt the remote control to a wide range of different technical devices (robotic systems, UAVs, land and water platforms) without changing the basic hardware or redesigning the case.

[0015] Using four analog joysticks in combination with modular button blocks allows for intuitive control of complex objects with multiple degrees of freedom, while serial connection of blocks via a digital bus minimizes the number of wires inside the case, increasing the reliability and maintainability of the device.

[0016] The presence of a universal expansion interface and standard connectors on the carrier board provides flexibility in the selection of communication channels and peripheral equipment (for example, the installation of various radio modems or navigation modules), which allows the production of various modifications of the remote control on a single technological platform, significantly reducing production costs and shortening the time to market for new product versions.

[0017] One standard connector is designed as a slot for installing replaceable expansion modules compatible with standard form factors. This ensures maximum flexibility in configuring the console to meet specific tasks and customer requirements. The use of standard form factors (e.g., M.2, MiniPCIe, or other unified connectors) allows for the integration of ready-made expansion modules from various manufacturers into the console without the need to develop specialized components.

[0018] This significantly reduces the development time for new remote control modifications, reduces the cost by using mass-produced components, and increases reliability by using proven and certified modules.

[0019] Furthermore, this approach allows for the upgrade of existing remote controls by simply replacing or adding expansion modules, which extends the product life cycle and increases its competitiveness in the market.

[0020] There is another possible embodiment of the utility model, in which the universal expansion interface contains at least four analog input channels and at least two digital input / output channels.

[0021] Thanks to these advantageous characteristics, it becomes possible to connect additional sensors and peripheral devices to the remote control without the need to modify its basic electronics.

[0022] Four analog input channels allow the integration of analog sensors (such as pressure, temperature, light sensors, or potentiometers for additional controls), while two digital input / output channels provide connection of digital sensors, buttons, relays, and other discrete devices.

[0023] This architecture expands the functionality of the remote control depending on the specific application (for example, robotic systems may require control of additional attachments).

[0024] This ensures the versatility and scalability of the design, allowing one basic remote control to be used to control various technical devices with different sets of sensors and peripherals.

[0025] There is also a possible version of the utility model in which each modular block of buttons additionally contains an electronic backlight control device.

[0026] Thanks to these advantageous characteristics, it becomes possible to implement adaptive backlighting of the controls, increasing the convenience and safety of using the remote control in low-light conditions or when working in the field.

[0027] The presence of an electronic backlight control device in each modular button block allows you to independently set the glow modes, brightness and backlight color for different button blocks depending on the functions performed or the current operating mode of the controlled device.

[0028] This approach improves ergonomics and control clarity, reduces the likelihood of accidentally pressing controls, and allows for quick reconfiguration of the remote control interface using software without making changes to its hardware design.

[0029] There is a possible embodiment of the utility model, in which the battery charge controller is designed with the ability to operate at various input voltages and provides both an increase and a decrease in the input voltage.

[0030] These advantageous characteristics ensure the universality of power supply of the remote control from a wide range of external power sources, which is critical for use in the field and when working with various types of robotic systems and unmanned systems.

[0031] The ability of the charge controller to operate at various input voltages (for example, from USB ports with a voltage of 5V, car sources of 12V or industrial sources of 24V) with the functions of increasing and decreasing voltage (buck-boost conversion) allows you to charge the remote control battery from any available source without the need for additional external adapters or converters.

[0032] This increases the autonomy and flexibility of the device's operation, simplifies logistics (no need for specialized chargers) and expands the scope of the remote control's application in conditions where only non-standard power sources are available.

[0033] There is another possible embodiment of the utility model, in which the power supply subsystem is designed with priority of supplying power from an external source over the battery.

[0034] Thanks to these advantageous characteristics, it becomes possible to conserve battery life and ensure continuous operation of the remote control for a long time in the presence of an external power source.

[0035] Implementing the power supply priority from an external source eliminates battery charge / discharge cycles when the remote control is connected to a power source or a vehicle's on-board electrical system. This not only extends the battery's lifespan by preventing premature wear, but also ensures that the battery has a full charge for autonomous operation when the external power cable is disconnected.

[0036] In general, the microcontroller-computer module data exchange interface is implemented as a standard peripheral communication interface and emulates the operation of a game controller. This ensures compatibility with various single-board computers without the need to develop specialized interface boards or drivers.

[0037] This approach reduces software development costs because developers can use ready-made libraries and code samples, speeds up the time to market for new remote control modifications, and increases reliability through the use of proven and standardized data exchange protocols.

[0038] The remote control is designed to work with a standardized computing module, implemented in accordance with the SMARC standard, and installed in a corresponding socket on the motherboard. This reduces the complexity of the motherboard, increases its repairability, and improves its versatility.

[0039] Furthermore, this approach allows for the possibility of upgrading the computing module by simply replacing it with a more powerful platform without reworking the rest of the remote control electronics.

[0040] There is also a possible embodiment of the utility model, in which the motherboard carrier contains at least one wired communication interface for connecting a remotely controlled technical device.

[0041] Thanks to these advantageous characteristics, it becomes possible to directly control technical devices via wires in conditions where the use of a radio channel is impossible, impractical, or limited by safety requirements.

[0042] The presence of a wired communication interface (for example, Ethernet, RS-485, CAN or USB) directly on the motherboard allows you to use the remote control for setting up, diagnosing and controlling devices in conditions of strong electromagnetic interference, in shielded rooms or when it is necessary to ensure control secrecy (no radio emission).

[0043] This significantly expands the scope of application of the remote control, allowing it to be used not only as a wireless controller, but also as a stationary or remote control terminal for industrial equipment, underwater vehicles (connected by cable) or ground-based robotic systems operating in complex interference environments.

[0044] Furthermore, the wired interface provides high-speed and reliable data transfer, which is critical for broadcasting high-resolution video streams or transmitting real-time telemetry without the delays typical of wireless networks.

[0045] Finally, there is also a possible version of the utility model, in which the case is made dust- and moisture-proof and equipped with sealed connectors for external connections.

[0046] Thanks to these advantageous characteristics, it becomes possible to use the remote control in adverse and extreme environmental conditions typical for the operation of robotic systems outdoors, in emergency zones or at industrial facilities.

[0047] The dust- and moisture-proof housing (e.g. IP65, IP67 or higher) combined with sealed connectors prevents dust, dirt, moisture and water splashes from entering the device, which can lead to corrosion of electronics, short circuits or failure of the computing module and display.

[0048] This ensures high operational reliability and durability of the product, allowing the operator to perform tasks in the rain, in highly dusty conditions or with sudden temperature changes without the risk of losing control of the technical device.

[0049] Furthermore, the use of sealed connectors for external connections (charging, wired communication, expansion interfaces) ensures that the housing remains protected even when peripheral equipment is connected, making the remote control a fully-fledged professional tool for work in field and industrial conditions.

[0050] Brief description of drawings.

[0051] Other distinctive features and advantages of the utility model clearly follow from the description given below for illustration and not as limiting, with reference to the attached drawings, in which:

[0052] - Figure 1 depicts the connection options for the universal remote control, according to the utility model,

[0053] Wired connection option (1GbE, RS-485, CAN)

[0054] Wireless connection option (WiFi, BT, GSM, 3G / 4G / 5G)

[0055] Connection option using a specific interface block / communication channel installed outside or inside the remote control;

[0056] - Figure 2 depicts the functional (block diagram) structure of the universal remote control, showing the relationship of the main units and subsystems: controls (joysticks, buttons, switches), input-output board, remote control controller, power supply subsystem, battery charge controller, computing module (SMARC), built-in display, interface drivers (CAN, RS-485, USB), functionality expansion modules (M.2 Key E, M.2 Key B, PCIe MiniCard, video capture) and protection circuits;

[0057] - Figure 3 shows the layout (arrangement) of connectors and elements on the motherboard carrier with positions 1-8:

[0058] • Position 1 - expansion interface connector (universal interface for connecting external devices / modules of the PCIe MiniCard standard)

[0059] • Position 2 - Power supply subsystem

[0060] • Position 3 - Battery Charge Controller

[0061] • Position 4 - connector for connecting long-range wireless communication modules (LTE, GSM, 3G / 4G / 5G), navigation and other interface modules (M.2 standard)

[0062] • Position 5 - connector for connecting the short-range wireless communication module WiFi and Bluetooth (M.2 standard)

[0063] • Position 6 - solid-state drive connector (M.2 standard)

[0064] • Position 7 - Ethernet matching transformers (2×1GbE)

[0065] • Position 8 - connector for connecting a computing module that supports the SMARC 2.0 standard

[0066] - Figure 4 depicts the layout (assembly) of the remote control as a whole, showing the location of the main components inside the case:

[0067] • Motherboard carrier assembly

[0068] • Modular pushbutton blocks (BK1-BK5)

[0069] • I / O board

[0070] • Built-in display

[0071] • Battery

[0072] • Cooling system (radiator, fan)

[0073] • Video capture module

[0074] • Front panel of the case

[0075] • Back cover

[0076] • External sealed connectors

[0077] • Controls on the back cover of the case;

[0078] - Figure 5 depicts the elements of the front panel of the remote control:

[0079] • Built-in display (with or without touch screen)

[0080] • Two-coordinate analog joysticks

[0081] • Toggle switch

[0082] • Protective membranes for front panel buttons

[0083] The figures also indicate:

[0084] • BK1-BK5 - modular button blocks (control blocks)

[0085] • Portable case - remote control case

[0086] • Front panel of the case - front panel of the remote control

[0087] • Rear case cover - rear cover of the remote control

[0088] • Built-in display - display module (with or without touch screen)

[0089] • Two-coordinate joysticks - analog controls (including a set of 4 joysticks on the front panel)

[0090] • Single-axis joysticks - analog controls (6 connectors on the motherboard)

[0091] • Toggle switch (control)

[0092] • Protective membranes for front panel buttons - membranes / protective elements for buttons

[0093] • External sealed connectors - external connection connectors

[0094] • Controls on the back cover of the case - controls located on the back cover

[0095] • Motherboard carrier - the main board containing the microcontroller, power subsystem, charge controller, computing module and interface circuits

[0096] • Input / output board - a board for connecting controls located on the back cover

[0097] • Computing module (SMARC) - a data processing and operating system management module

[0098] • Remote controller (microcontroller) - a unit for processing signals from control elements and coordinating them with the computing module

[0099] • Power supply subsystem (PS) - a unit for converting and distributing power to consumers

[0100] • Battery charge controller - battery charge control unit

[0101] • Battery (Li-ion) - rechargeable battery

[0102] • Video capture module - video capture module for expanding functionality

[0103] • Cooling system - cooling unit (radiator, fan)

[0104] • CAN Driver - CAN Interface Driver

[0105] • RS-485 Driver - RS-485 Interface Driver

[0106] • M.2 Key E connector - connector for installing WiFi+BT modules (interfaces: USB2.0, PCIe x1, SDIO)

[0107] • M.2 Key B connector (for modems) - connector for installing wireless modems 3G / 4G / 5G, GPS / GLONASS (interfaces: USB3.0, PCIe x1, SIM)

[0108] • M.2 Key B connector (for SSD) - connector for installing SSD drives (interface: SATA)

[0109] • PCIe MiniCard slot - slot for installing expansion modules (interfaces: PCIe x1, USB2.0)

[0110] • External display inverter - power supply / backlight unit for built-in display

[0111] • Ethernet Matching Transformers - Transformers for matching 1GbE port signals

[0112] • DP-LVDS Converter - a chip for converting a DisplayPort video signal to LVDS for connecting an integrated display

[0113] • Filtering and protection circuit - hardware filtering and protection of signals from interference and static electricity

[0114] • I / O board - board with I2C interface for connecting modular button blocks

[0115] • Wired interfaces: 1GbE (Ethernet), RS-485, CAN

[0116] • Wireless interfaces: WiFi, Bluetooth, GSM, 3G / 4G / 5G

[0117] • Expansion interfaces: M.2 Key E, M.2 Key B, PCIe MiniCard

[0118] • Display connection interfaces: LVDS (built-in), micro-HDMI (external)

[0119] • Module control interfaces: I2C (for modular button blocks), USB (for remote controller)

[0120] • Power interfaces: USB Type-C, external power supply connector

[0121] Implementation of a utility model.

[0122] The universal remote control works as follows.

[0123] The remote control controller processes signals from the controls and coordinates overall device operation. The controller connects to the SMARC module via a USB interface. Using a built-in analog-to-digital converter, it digitizes signals from the analog joysticks, reads the button block (BB) state via the I2C interface, and inputs signals from the I / O board. Using this data, it generates and sends information packets to the operating system installed on the SMARC module. These packets are processed by the driver for "HID-compliant game controller" devices. Any program can then access this information using standard libraries for working with game controllers (gamepads).Additionally, the remote controller provides the ability to emulate a mouse-type manipulator in a special mode using a two-coordinate joystick (cursor movement) and two buttons (right and left keys), generating and sending corresponding standard data packets to the operating system via the USB interface.

[0124] The motherboard contains a total of four connectors for two-axis analog joysticks and six connectors for single-axis joysticks. Additionally, four analog signals, two digital signals, and I2C devices can be input via the expansion interface. To eliminate noise and pulse interference, signals are hardware filtered before being sent to the controller. The use of specific signals is determined in the controller firmware.

[0125] The front panel buttons are divided into BK1-BK5 blocks, each corresponding to a separate electronic module. Each button module is based on a 16-bit I / O signal expander with an I2C interface. Each button module contains a pass-through connector that supplies power and the SDA and SCL lines of the I2C interface. These connectors connect the modules in series and connect them to the motherboard. This solution significantly reduces the number of wiring connections, regardless of the number of buttons, and simplifies the button placement within the remote control housing. In addition to processing the buttons, each module contains a controlled LED backlight switch. When implementing remote control versions with different button layouts and numbers, only the BK1-BK5 modules are modified (with the option to increase or decrease their number), without requiring changes to the motherboard circuitry.

[0126] The I / O board connects to the rear case controls and connects to the motherboard via a universal expansion interface. It includes four analog inputs, four digital inputs / outputs (depending on configuration), two power outputs for button backlighting, power lines, and an I2C interface line. This also allows for the implementation of various universal control panel designs without changing the motherboard's circuitry.

[0127] The motherboard contains a battery charge controller subsystem. The controller maintains the required charging cycle parameters (voltage and current) for lithium-ion batteries. It operates independently of whether the remote control is turned on or off; when power is supplied from an external adapter, the controller always attempts to charge the battery. The voltage converter in the charge controller uses a BUCK-BOOST design (meaning it can both step up and step down voltage), allowing the remote control to operate over a wide range of input supply voltages (from 5 to 27 V). When the remote control is turned on, the charge controller simultaneously charges the battery and supplies power to the entire system. A charge meter circuit is also implemented in this subsystem to monitor the battery's charge level.The indicator on the power button serves as a charging status indicator when the remote control is turned off: if the battery is still charging, the indicator lights up; if the battery charging cycle is complete, the indicator turns off.

[0128] The motherboard supports SMARC 2.0-compliant computing modules. The high-speed module interfaces are equipped with dedicated circuitry for interference and static protection, as well as signal level matching and switching. Matching transformers are also installed to support the Ethernet interfaces. External connectivity includes three USB 2.0 interfaces, two 1GbE Ethernet ports, and one USB Type-C port (with USB 2.0 and USB 3.0). Additionally, for wired communication with robots, the motherboard includes galvanically isolated RS485 / RS422 and CAN2.0 full-duplex interface converters. The RS485 interface is connected to the SMARC module via a USB-UART interface converter installed on the motherboard. The CAN interface can be connected directly to the SMARC module via a switch, if supported.Alternatively, the remote controller can perform the CAN interface conversion function using the SLCAN protocol for a SMARC module without native CAN support.

[0129] The integrated display is connected via a dual-channel LVDS interface, supporting screen resolutions up to 1920x1200. This interface is received from the SMARC module's DisplayPort via a DP-to-LVDS converter chip. The matrix is ​​connected via a flat FFC cable. An additional display can be connected via the micro-HDMI connector on the motherboard.

[0130] To provide the possibility of expanding functionality, the motherboard carrier is equipped with the following standard connectors for expansion boards and modules:

[0131] - PCIe MiniCard module slot, which provides PCIe x1 and USB 2.0 interfaces. It can accommodate a variety of standard and special modules for various purposes;

[0132] - M.2 Key B connector, which carries USB 3.0 and PCIe x1 interfaces, as well as lines from the SIM card slot on the drive. This connector is primarily intended for installing 3G / 4G / 5G wireless modems, navigation modules (GPS / GLONASS), and any other modules that meet the M.2 specification and have a 30x42 mm form factor;

[0133] - M.2 Key E connector, which provides USB 2.0, PCIe x1, and SDIO interfaces. This connector is designed for installing Wi-Fi+BT modules;

[0134] - M.2 Key B connector with a SATA interface. This connector is designed for installing 22 x 42 mm SSDs to expand the system's available storage capacity.

[0135] The power button activates the remote control's power subsystem. This first supplies power to the remote control controller and the SMARC module. Then, signals from the SMARC module activate the peripheral devices. The power button has a built-in indicator, which the remote control controller can use to signal various system operating states. The motherboard circuitry includes a power-off delay and a button-off sensor. This ensures that when the user deactivates the button, the remote control controller sends a signal to the SMARC module to initiate a proper shutdown. After this, or after the delay, the power is reliably turned off.

[0136] The motherboard carrier is a multilayer printed circuit board (Fig. 3) with single-sided component placement, primarily surface-mounted. External connection ports are located around the perimeter of the board. Functionality expansion modules are installed in corresponding connectors 1, 4, 5, and 6 distributed across the board. The SMARC computing module is installed in connector 8. Immediately adjacent are matching transformers 7 for the Ethernet interface, as well as a DisplayPort to LVDS converter for connecting the integrated display, and a microHDMI connector for connecting an additional external display. Battery charge controller 3 is located at the bottom of the board, and components of the power supply subsystem 2 fill the space between the remaining circuit nodes on the board.The motherboard is equipped with stands for mounting a cooling radiator and a fan connector to improve heat dissipation from the processor through the radiator.

[0137] According to Figs. 3-5, the assembled motherboard is mounted on the front panel on a support plate (Fig. 4). Most of the remote control controls (joysticks, toggle switches, operator button blocks) and the built-in display (Fig. 5) are also mounted on this panel. The input / output board is located on the rear cover of the remote control housing and serves to combine signals from additional buttons and joysticks mounted there. Sealed connectors and the power button are attached to a specially designated end of the rear cover niche and are connected to the motherboard using wires with connectors. The battery is also attached below the cover.

[0138] Industrial applicability.

[0139] The universal remote control is capable of practical implementation by a skilled person and, when implemented, ensures the fulfillment of the stated purpose. This practical implementation follows from the fact that for each feature included in the utility model formula based on the description, a material equivalent is known, allowing a conclusion to be reached regarding compliance with the "industrial applicability" criterion for the utility model and the "completeness of disclosure" criterion for the utility model.

[0140] In accordance with the proposed solution, the applicant manufactured a prototype of a universal remote control.

[0141] Tests of the prototype have shown that it ensures the achievement of the achievable technical result - to create a universal portable remote control, the design of which ensures adaptation to various remotely controlled technical devices (including robots, UAVs, etc.) without changing the basic hardware of the remote control and with the ability to implement various layouts / numbers of controls.

Claims

1. A universal remote control comprising a portable housing, controls, a computing module, a display, a battery, and a motherboard carrier with a built-in power supply subsystem and a charge controller, characterized in that the motherboard carrier contains a microcontroller for processing signals from the controls and an interface for exchanging data with the computing module, the front panel controls include four analog joysticks and five modular button blocks, each of which contains an electronic means for expanding input and output lines, feed-through connectors for power and a digital serial communication bus, wherein the modular button blocks are connected in series and connected to the motherboard carrier via the said bus, and the rear panel controls are connected via an input-output board connected to the motherboard carrier via a universal expansion interface with power lines,digital communications and analog and digital input / output, and the motherboard is equipped with a standard M.2 Key E connector designed for installing a Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless communication module.

2. The remote control according to claim 1, characterized in that the universal expansion interface contains at least four analog input channels and at least two digital input / output channels.

3. The remote control according to paragraph 1, characterized in that each modular block of buttons additionally contains an electronic means for controlling the backlight.

4. The remote control according to paragraph 1, characterized in that the battery charge controller is designed with the ability to operate at different input voltages and provides both an increase and a decrease in the input voltage.

5. The remote control according to paragraph 1, characterized in that the power supply subsystem is designed with priority of supplying power from an external source over the battery.

6. The remote control according to paragraph 1, characterized in that the motherboard carrier contains at least one wired communication interface for connecting a remotely controlled technical device.

7. The remote control according to paragraph 1, characterized in that the housing is made dust- and moisture-proof and is equipped with sealed connectors for external connections.

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