Display Device External IP Device Connection Verification

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing digital TV systems face challenges in identifying and controlling IP devices connected to a display device, particularly when multiple devices are connected through the same access point, leading to incorrect connections and inability to determine which device is connected to the TV.

Innovation Solution

A display device with a network interface and processor that acquires information on connected external devices, receives information sets from search devices through an access point, and displays a test screen to verify connections, allowing for proper device identification and control using a remote controller.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple IP devices are connected through the same access point, then the network coverage and device connectivity are improved, but it becomes impossible to determine which IP device is connected to the TV

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice connectivityVSAvoiddevice identification
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The system establishes a feedback loop where the display device sends test signals to connected IP devices and receives responses. This feedback mechanism allows the display device to verify which IP device is actually connected by checking for proper signal response, thereby resolving the identification problem among multiple devices on the same network

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary verification process through test signal transmission. Instead of directly identifying devices through IP addresses alone, the system uses test signals as an intermediary to establish confirmation of actual physical connection, bridging the gap between network presence and physical connectivity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If IP device search is performed through the access point, then the ability to find connected devices is improved, but unintended connection attempts may occur with devices not actually connected to the TV

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice search efficiencyVSAvoidconnection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary testing by transmitting test signals before establishing a confirmed connection. This preliminary action allows the display device to verify the actual connection status and device identity before proceeding with full operation, preventing unintended connections to wrong devices

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary anti-action by using test signals to prevent potential wrong connections. Before allowing full interaction with an IP device, the system first sends test signals to verify the connection is legitimate, thereby counteracting the risk of unintended connections to neighboring or incorrect devices

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

3Measurement precision

If connection information is acquired from the external device interface, then the ability to identify connected devices is improved, but additional processing steps and time are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice identification accuracyVSAvoidconnection verification time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs a partial verification process by sending test signals to confirm connection rather than requiring complete device characterization. This partial action approach provides sufficient verification to prevent wrong connections without requiring exhaustive device information gathering, thus balancing accuracy with time efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentEP3923590A1Display device and method of operating the same for checking connection of an external device
Publication Date: 2021.12.15 LG ELECTRONICS INC
  • EP3923590A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3923590A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3923590A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A display device includes a display, a network interface for connection with a access point, an external device interface configured to receive image data from an external device, and a processor configured to acquire information on the external device connected to the external device interface, receive an information set of a plurality of search devices connected through an Internet network from the access point, and display a test screen for checking connection of the external device on the display when any one of the plurality of search devices matches the external device based on the information on the external device and the information set.