Cross-Firing IR Emitter Array for Playback Device Signal Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current entertainment systems face design constraints due to the need for redundant IR repeater systems in soundbars, which require extensive hardware space and power for multiple IR emitters to account for various display IR receiver locations, compromising the physical design and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A compact control signal repeater system for playback devices, utilizing two IR emitters positioned in a cross-firing arrangement on the back side, directed towards opposite ends, to relay IR control signals, reducing hardware requirements and power consumption while maintaining functional coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple IR emitters are used to account for various display IR receiver locations, then control signal coverage is improved, but hardware space and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the IR emitter array into multiple independently controllable segments. Each segment can be selectively activated based on the detected position of the display IR receiver, rather than having all emitters always active. This segmentation allows the system to maintain comprehensive coverage capability while reducing the number of active emitters at any given time, thereby reducing hardware space requirements and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic IR emitter control system that adjusts which emitters are active based on real-time detection of the display IR receiver location. The system dynamically selects and activates only the necessary subset of emitters to maintain control signal coverage, rather than using a fixed configuration of multiple emitters. This dynamic approach reduces the required hardware space while maintaining adaptability.
2Reliability
If multiple IR emitters are used to ensure control signal coverage, then reliability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the IR emitter array into multiple zones and activates only the relevant segments based on display position detection. This ensures reliable control signal coverage for the actual display location while avoiding power consumption from activating unnecessary emitters in other zones, thereby reducing overall power consumption while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by activating only the minimum necessary number of IR emitters required to maintain control signal coverage, rather than activating all emitters. The system detects the display IR receiver location and activates only the subset of emitters that will effectively reach the display, reducing power consumption while maintaining sufficient reliability for control operations.
3Reliability
If redundant IR repeater systems are implemented, then control signal reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements segmentation of the IR emitter array into controllable segments, allowing the system to achieve control signal reliability through selective activation of segments rather than through redundant hardware. This approach maintains reliability while reducing the total number of emitters and associated hardware, thereby lowering manufacturing costs and simplifying production.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses dynamic control of IR emitters based on display position detection to achieve reliability without redundant hardware. The system adaptively activates the appropriate emitters in real-time, providing reliable control signal transmission while reducing the overall hardware count compared to static redundant systems, thus lowering manufacturing complexity and cost.
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
This solution allows for a more efficient and aesthetically focused design by consolidating IR emitters with other ports, providing effective IR signal retransmission with fewer emitters, thus enhancing mechanical design flexibility and reducing power usage.
Implementation Method 1
an infrared (IR) receiver positioned on the front side of the housing to receive control signals
Implementation Method 2
a first IR emitter positioned on the back side of the housing and oriented such that a first IR signal emitted from the first IR emitter
Data Source
AI summary
An example playback device includes a housing having a front side, a back side, a first end, and a second end. The playback device also includes an IR receiver positioned on the front side of the housing, a first IR emitter positioned on the back side of the housing and oriented such that a first IR signal emitted from the first IR emitter is directed toward the second end of the housing, and a second IR emitter positioned on the back side of the housing and oriented such that a second IR signal emitted from the second IR emitter a) is directed toward the first end of the housing and b) crosses the first IR signal emitted from the first IR emitter. The first and second IR emitters are communicatively coupled to the IR receiver within the housing and configured to retransmit an IR control signal received by the IR receiver.