Communication Device Pointing Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional communication devices require complex operations and multiple devices to function as a remote controller for target apparatuses, and they do not efficiently handle situations with multiple apparatuses or varying user preferences.
Innovation Solution
A communication device that uses an apparatus information obtainment unit, position information obtainment unit, and direction sensor to associate operation information with position information, allowing the device to select and control apparatuses by pointing, using proximity wireless communication for simplified operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional communication devices use multiple operation units and complex registration programs to control target apparatuses, then the device can function as a remote controller, but the operation complexity increases and user effort is excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The communication device automatically obtains apparatus information from IC tags and performs registration operations without requiring user intervention. The device self-services by autonomously reading apparatus information, storing it in the storage unit, and establishing control mappings, thereby eliminating complex manual registration procedures while maintaining remote controller functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts only the essential control functionality from complex remote control systems. By using a single operation unit that triggers automatic apparatus information retrieval and control signal transmission, the system removes unnecessary operation units and registration programs, keeping only the core remote control capability with minimal user interaction
2Extent of automation
If the communication device stores apparatus information and control information in association, then it can automatically control target apparatuses, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges apparatus information and control information into a unified storage structure where both types of information are stored in association within the same storage unit. This integration allows the device to automatically retrieve both apparatus identification and corresponding control signals together, enabling automatic control functionality while avoiding the complexity of separate, distributed information storage systems
Solution Approach 2:
The storage unit is designed to universally store multiple types of information (apparatus information and control information) in a single structure that serves multiple functions: apparatus identification, control signal storage, and automatic retrieval. This multi-functional storage approach enables automatic control capability without requiring separate specialized storage systems for each type of information
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional devices require selection of target apparatus through display units and multiple buttons, then they can control specific apparatuses, but the operation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the mechanical interaction system (display units, multiple buttons, and manual selection processes) with an automatic information retrieval system. The communication device uses proximity wireless communication to automatically obtain apparatus information from IC tags and transmit control signals without requiring users to navigate through display interfaces or press multiple buttons, thereby dramatically reducing operation time while maintaining the ability to control specific apparatuses
4Ease of operation
If the communication device uses proximity wireless communication to obtain apparatus information, then it can simplify operation, but it may have difficulty distinguishing between multiple apparatuses
Solution Approach 1:
The communication device employs feedback mechanisms where apparatus information obtained from IC tags is stored and used to distinguish between multiple apparatuses. The system receives feedback from the proximity wireless communication about which apparatus is present, stores this information in the storage unit, and uses it to accurately identify and control the correct target apparatus, thereby maintaining both operation simplicity and identification accuracy in environments with multiple devices
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 the communication device to serve as an extended user interface for apparatuses with minimal user effort, allowing single-button operation and accurate selection of target apparatuses, even in environments with multiple devices.
Implementation Method 1
a direction sensor unit configured to generate direction information indicating a direction in which the communication device is held, based on a direction of gravity
Implementation Method 2
a proximity wireless communication unit configured to perform proximity wireless communication; wherein the apparatus information obtainment unit is configured to obtain the apparatus information regarding the target apparatus via the proximity wireless communication unit
Data Source
AI summary
The communication device can easily serve as an extended user interface such as a remote controller of a target apparatus without causing any complicated operations to a user. The communication device includes the following units. An apparatus information obtainment unit (203) obtains apparatus information from an apparatus. A position information obtainment unit (206) obtains position information of the communication device (102). An operation information obtainment unit (212) obtains operation information based on the apparatus information. A storage unit (213) stores the position information as apparatus position information indicating as a position of the apparatus, in association with the operation information. A direction sensor unit (207) detects direction of the communication device (102). A directional space calculation unit (208) calculates a directional space of the communication device (102). A selection unit (209a) specifies the apparatus existing in the directional space based on the apparatus position information and selects the operation information associated with the specified apparatus. An operation information transmission unit (215) transmits, based on the selected operation information, a control signal to the specified apparatus so as to allow the communication device to operate the apparatus.