Computing Device Playback Control via Dynamic Configuration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users face difficulties in controlling multiple playback devices due to the need for separate remote controllers, limited code storage in universal remote controllers, and the inability of these controllers to support latest devices.

Innovation Solution

A computing device with display, input, and communication means generates control information based on device configuration, allowing users to control playback devices through a user-friendly interface on the computing device, eliminating the need for separate remote controllers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a separate remote controller is required for each playback device, then each device can be controlled precisely, but the number of controllers increases and users find it difficult to learn how to use them

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of controlVSAvoidnumber of controllers
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The computing device performs multiple functions including display, input reception, control information generation, and communication with playback devices. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate remote controllers by integrating all control capabilities into a single device that users are already familiar with.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The computing device autonomously generates control information by receiving device configuration information, processing user inputs, and transmitting control signals to playback devices. This self-service capability allows the system to manage control functions independently without requiring external remote controllers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Device complexity

If a universal remote controller is used to control multiple playback devices, then the number of controllers is reduced, but the number of codes that can be stored is limited and the controller cannot support latest playback devices

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of controllersVSAvoidsupport for latest devices
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The computing device dynamically generates control information based on real-time device configuration information received from playback devices. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to support the latest playback devices without requiring pre-programmed codes, as the control information is generated on-demand based on the actual device state.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical/code-based remote controller system with an information-processing system. Instead of storing and transmitting fixed codes, the computing device processes configuration information and generates control signals dynamically, substituting the mechanical code storage mechanism with an intelligent information processing approach.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a universal remote controller is used, then multiple devices can be controlled, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The computing device serves as a universal control platform that can interface with multiple types of playback devices. By leveraging the existing computing device's capabilities for display, input processing, and communication, the system avoids the need to manufacture specialized remote controllers for each device type, thereby reducing overall manufacturing costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8910047B2Device-specific and application-specific computing device, playback device and method for controlling playback device using computing device
Publication Date: 2014.12.09 SK PLANET CO LTD
  • US8910047B2 patent drawing
  • US8910047B2 patent drawing
  • US8910047B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device-specific and application-specific computing device, a playback device and a method for controlling the playback device using the computing device is disclosed. In accordance with the present invention, a user may control the playback device using a control information generated according to a device configuration information of the computing device in his/her possession.