Communication Device Proxy for Set-Top Box Voice Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication systems lack seamless integration of voice communication services with media services, particularly in IPTV and satellite broadcast systems, where users face difficulties in making telephone calls while accessing media content without the need for separate devices or complex setups.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that enables voice communication services by using a communication device as a proxy for a set-top box, allowing users to initiate and manage voice calls through a remote control device, with the communication device communicatively coupled to a base station, providing voice services and presenting them on media devices like TVs, using protocols like DECT and WiFi.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate communication device is used for voice calls, then voice communication services can be provided, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to requiring multiple devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines voice communication functionality with the media device (set-top box) by using the communication device as a proxy. The set-top box initiates calls and the communication device executes them, merging two previously separate functions (media playback and voice communication) into an integrated system that operates through coordinated interaction between components.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication device serves multiple roles: it acts as a proxy for the set-top box to initiate and execute voice calls, while also maintaining its primary communication functions. This multi-functionality allows the system to provide voice services without requiring a dedicated separate communication device for the user.
2Ease of operation
If voice communication services are integrated with media services, then ease of operation improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the voice communication function into a separate proxy role performed by the communication device, while the set-top box retains its media service functions. This segmentation allows integration of services without requiring the set-top box to handle all communication protocols directly, distributing complexity across specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication device acts as an intermediary or proxy between the set-top box and the communication network. It receives call initiation requests from the set-top box, translates them into appropriate communication protocols, executes the calls, and reports back to the set-top box, thereby mediating the integration between media services and voice communication.
Data Source
AI summary
A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a device including a base station communicatively coupled to a communication system, and a communicative device communicatively coupled to the base station for providing voice communication services to a user, wherein the communicative device serves as a proxy to make telephone calls on behalf of a set-top box presenting media services to a presentation device. Other embodiments are disclosed.