Directional Space Calculation for Multi-Apparatus Remote 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 scenarios with multiple apparatuses or varying environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
A communication device that includes an apparatus information obtainment unit, position information obtainment unit, operation information obtainment unit, storage unit, direction sensor unit, and directional space calculation unit, allowing it to associate position and operation information and transmit control signals based on direction, enabling operation of apparatuses by pointing the device without complex operations.
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 devices can serve as remote controllers, but the operation complexity increases and user effort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The communication device automatically obtains apparatus information through the apparatus information obtainment unit and autonomously performs position determination using the position information obtainment unit and directional space calculation unit. The device self-selects the target apparatus based on calculated directional space without requiring manual selection or complex registration operations by the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations (pressing buttons, navigating menus, registering devices) with automated electronic processes. The directional space calculation unit computes spatial relationships electronically, and the apparatus information obtainment unit automatically retrieves control information, substituting complex mechanical user interactions with streamlined electronic automation.
2Ease of operation
If conventional remote controllers require precise pointing and angle measurement to select buttons on display, then button selection is possible, but the device complexity and measurement requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The communication device integrates multiple functions into a single system: the direction sensor unit serves both for determining apparatus position and for calculating directional space. The position information obtainment unit and directional space calculation unit work together to perform both location identification and target selection, eliminating the need for separate button selection mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional display coordinate systems to three-dimensional spatial positioning. Instead of measuring angles on a flat display surface, the directional space calculation unit operates in 3D space using direction sensor data, allowing more intuitive and accurate target apparatus selection through spatial relationships rather than planar coordinates.
3Adaptability or versatility
If communication devices store and manage multiple apparatus information data files, then they can control multiple target apparatuses, but the information management complexity and storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The communication device extracts only the essential apparatus information needed for control from the apparatus information data file. The apparatus information obtainment unit retrieves specific control parameters and the position information obtainment unit extracts location data, storing only the necessary subset of information rather than complete apparatus databases, thereby reducing storage requirements while maintaining multi-apparatus control capability.
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 easy operation of apparatuses by pointing the device, simplifies control with proximity wireless communication, and accurately selects target apparatuses even in complex environments, reducing user effort and error.
Implementation Method 1
a direction sensor unit that generates direction information indicating a direction in which the communication device is held
Implementation Method 2
The communication device transmits, to the target apparatus, a control signal based on the selected operation information
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2(a)~2(c)
Figure 3
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.