Power Status Detection for Analog A/V Devices via Current Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing audio/video network systems face difficulties in centrally controlling conventionally wired, IR signal-controlled analog devices due to the inability to detect their power status, leading to complex and inefficient control processes.
Innovation Solution
A power detection system that includes a current sensor, current-to-voltage converter, voltage comparator, reference voltage output circuit, and micro-controller, which detects AC power current levels and sends 'Power On' commands to analog A/V devices if necessary, allowing for effective control by comparing input voltage to device-specific threshold voltages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional control systems are used to control analog A/V devices, then central control capability is achieved, but the system cannot detect power status of analog devices leading to complex and inefficient control processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a power status detection circuit as an intermediary component connected to the power cord of analog A/V devices. This circuit includes a current sensor, current-to-voltage converter, voltage comparator, and micro-controller that work together to detect power status and communicate it to the central control system, enabling centralized control without increasing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical/physical control methods with electrical signal-based detection. Instead of using complex remote controls with multiple buttons for each device, the system uses electrical current detection through the power cord to automatically determine power status and send control commands, simplifying the user interface and control process
2Productivity
If power status detection is implemented for analog devices, then control efficiency is improved, but additional detection components and circuitry are required
Solution Approach 1:
The power status detection circuit is designed to be universally applicable to all analog A/V devices through a standardized interface that connects to the existing power cord. The same circuit architecture works for different device types (TVs, VCRs, DVD players), eliminating the need for device-specific detection systems and reducing overall complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The detection circuit uses the existing power cord and current flow to determine power status without requiring additional separate detection mechanisms. The current sensor detects the presence and level of current already flowing through the power cord, turning the power connection itself into the detection medium and avoiding extra complexity
3Speed
If the system sends control commands without checking power status, then response time is reduced, but control commands cannot be effectively executed by powered-off devices
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs a preliminary power status check before sending control commands. The micro-controller detects whether the device is powered on through the current sensor and voltage comparator, and only sends control commands if the device is powered on. This preliminary action ensures reliable command execution without significantly impacting overall response time
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient detection and processing of A/V device power status, facilitating centralized control of both digital and analog devices within the network by ensuring devices are powered on before receiving control commands, thereby simplifying the control process.
Implementation Method 1
a current sensor coupled to the power cord of an A/V device... detects the AC power current being drawn by the A/V device through the cord
Implementation Method 2
The current level is then converted to an input voltage signal by the voltage converted
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided that facilitate detection and processing of A/V device power status in A/V networks. Preferably, a power detection system includes a current sensor coupled to the power cord of an A/V device, a current-to-voltage converter coupled to the sensor, a voltage comparator coupled to the converter, a reference voltage output circuit coupled to the comparator, and a micro-controller coupled to the comparator and the reference voltage output circuit. In operation, the current being drawn by the A/V device through its power cord is detected and converted to an input voltage, which is then compared to a device specific threshold voltage. If the input voltage is not greater than the threshold voltage, a “Power On” command is sent to the A/V device and the detection, conversion and comparison process is repeated. If the input voltage is greater than the threshold voltage, desired commands and/or instructions are sent to the A/V device.