DMX Channel Control for Selective Media Device Parameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control systems for media devices, such as DMX-512 protocol controllers, often require users to manage all parameters, including those not needed, leading to unintended adjustments, and require multiple library files for different device brands, limiting user flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A control device with a central processing unit and memory that selectively enables or disables control of media device parameters via state-based protocols like DMX-512, while continuing to transmit signals, and supports multiple communication protocols including RS232, RS422, and Ethernet, allowing for customizable parameter control through a graphical interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If all parameters are controlled through DMX-512 protocol, then comprehensive control capability is achieved, but unintended parameter adjustments occur and user flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control parameters into enabled and disabled channels. The controller divides the 512 DMX channels into selectable groups, allowing users to enable only the specific parameters they need (e.g., intensity, color) while disabling others (e.g., zoom, focus). This segmentation prevents unintended adjustments while maintaining comprehensive control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system dynamically adjusts which parameters are controllable based on user configuration. The enabled/disabled channel settings are not fixed but can be modified through software configuration, allowing the system to adapt to different usage scenarios and user preferences while preventing unintended changes to critical parameters.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple library files are used to support different device brands, then device compatibility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal control system that can handle multiple device brands and protocols through a single integrated architecture. Rather than requiring separate library files for each device type, the system uses a unified protocol implementation that automatically adapts to different devices, reducing complexity while maintaining broad compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system manages device compatibility through configurable parameters and settings rather than separate library files. By allowing users to configure channel mappings, parameter names, and device-specific settings within the universal system, the patent reduces the need for multiple predefined libraries while maintaining support for various device brands.
3Device complexity
If fixed channel mapping is used in DMX-512 protocol, then protocol simplicity is maintained, but user customization capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the channel mapping dynamic and configurable rather than fixed. Users can assign different parameters to different channels based on their specific needs, and these mappings can be changed without modifying the protocol itself. This maintains protocol simplicity while enabling extensive customization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides pre-configured channel mappings for common scenarios, allowing users to start with a simple, ready-to-use configuration. Users can then customize the mappings as needed, combining the benefits of protocol simplicity with customization capability through a layered approach.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is a control device for a serial network protocol controller configured to selectively disable control of a parameter of a controllable media device by at least one channel while the serial network protocol controller continues to transmit the at least one channel to the at least on serial network protocol controllable media device.