Infrared output device and control system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control systems for infrared remote controllers are inadequate in recognizing operation failures, leading to apparatuses being left in undesired states, and there is a need for a system that can reliably control a variety of apparatuses, including those operable via infrared and network communication.
Innovation Solution
An operating system comprising an input receiving device, first and second information processing devices, and an infrared output device that analyze operation information to determine control instructions for apparatuses operable via infrared or network communication, ensuring consistent operation by transmitting appropriate control signals to either type of apparatus.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single infrared remote controller is used to control multiple apparatuses, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability deteriorates because operation failures cannot be recognized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the control system transmits control instructions to apparatuses and receives response information to verify whether the operations were successfully executed. This feedback loop allows the system to detect operation failures and distinguish between infrared-controlled apparatuses and network-controlled apparatuses based on their response characteristics, thereby maintaining reliability while using a unified remote controller interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the control system into different communication channels (infrared and network) with distinct verification mechanisms. By analyzing the response information from each apparatus type separately, the system can determine which apparatuses were successfully controlled and which operations failed, enabling reliable operation verification across multiple apparatus types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the variety of operation input methods and apparatus management methods increases, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal remote controller that can control both infrared-operable apparatuses and network-operable apparatuses through a single device. The control system includes a unified interface that automatically selects the appropriate communication method based on the target apparatus type, eliminating the need for users to manage multiple separate remote controllers and simplifying the overall system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a control system is designed to control any apparatus via network, then the adaptability is improved, but the reliability deteriorates for apparatuses not operable via network
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary control system that acts as a mediator between the user and the apparatuses. This intermediary automatically determines the appropriate communication method (infrared or network) based on the apparatus type, ensuring that infrared-operable apparatuses are controlled reliably through infrared communication while network-operable apparatuses are controlled through network communication, thus maintaining high reliability across different apparatus types.
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
The system effectively manages and controls a wide range of apparatuses, reducing the likelihood of operation failures and enhancing reliability by accurately determining and executing control instructions for both infrared and network-operable devices.
Implementation Method 1
an infrared output device that outputs infrared rays to the controlled apparatus
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided is an infrared output device (2070, 2070S), wherein the infrared output device is installed in a fixed apparatus (2020F) whose position is fixed in a predetermined space and configured to, when an input receiving device (2060, 2060S), which is configured to receive, through voice input, a control command to a first-type apparatus (2010) controllable by infrared ray, has received the control command, output infrared ray to the first-type apparatus. The fixed apparatus may be fixedly mounted on a ceiling or wall of a room. The fixed apparatus may be an air-conditioning device. The infrared output device may be mounted on an upper-half region of a body of the fixed apparatus.