Display Configuration via External Setup Device
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost of constructing a network to connect multiple display devices to a central computer for remote control and configuration in public settings like hotels and exhibition halls, where frequent changes in device settings are necessary.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that allows for the setup and control of display devices without a network, using a configuration setup device that downloads and uploads configuration data via cables like RS232C, IEEE1394, or USB, and wireless communication to automatically set up display devices with desired options such as channel, volume, and screen settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a network is constructed to connect display devices to a central computer for remote control and configuration, then the ability to control and restore functions/options is improved, but the construction cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the network communication requirement from the control system by implementing direct peer-to-peer communication between display devices. Each display device can independently download configuration data from an external device and upload it to other display devices without requiring a central computer or network infrastructure, thus eliminating the costly network while maintaining control capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an external device (such as a PC or configuration device) as an intermediary that temporarily stores configuration data. This external device acts as a mediator between the user and multiple display devices, allowing configuration data to be downloaded from the external device and uploaded to display devices without requiring direct network connections between display devices and a central computer
2Ease of operation
If a network is constructed to connect display devices to a central computer, then configuration restoration is enabled, but the operational cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the need for continuous network connectivity and central computer operation by enabling display devices to independently store and restore configuration data locally. The configuration data is stored in the external device and can be uploaded to display devices on-demand without requiring active network infrastructure, significantly reducing operational costs
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple display devices are connected to a central computer through a network, then centralized control is achieved, but the system complexity and cable infrastructure requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the centralized control function from the network infrastructure by implementing a distributed control model where each display device can independently communicate with the external device and other display devices. This eliminates the need for physical cable connections to a central computer while maintaining the ability to control and configure multiple devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical cable-based network infrastructure with wireless or direct digital communication mechanisms. Configuration data can be transferred between the external device and display devices through interfaces such as USB, IEEE 1394, or other direct connection methods, eliminating the need for extensive cable routing and network hardware
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus of setting-up configuration of a display device includes a display device and a configuration set-up device. The configuration set-up device downloads configuration data from an external device and stores the downloaded data. When the configuration set-up device uploads the configuration data to the display device, configuration of the display device is automatically set-up according to the uploaded configuration data, which define a set of options associated with operation of the display device.