Dual-Control Networked Media Device via UPnP Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Networked digital media devices face challenges in providing advanced functionalities while maintaining interoperability with standard control devices, as compliance with standards like UPnP AV often limits the ability to offer non-standard features.
Innovation Solution
A networked digital media device is configured to advertise both a standard and a non-standard digital media playback device using a common open connectivity protocol, such as UPnP, allowing it to be discoverable and controllable by both standard and non-standard control devices, with non-standard devices providing advanced services like group and zone interoperability and surround sound functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a networked digital media device complies with standard media control protocols (e.g., UPnP AV), then interoperability with standard control devices is improved, but the ability to provide non-standard advanced functionalities is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The networked digital media device is configured to simultaneously advertise itself as both a standard digital media device (compliant with UPnP AV) and a non-standard digital media device (with advanced functionalities). This multi-functionality approach allows the device to serve multiple purposes: maintaining interoperability with standard control devices while also enabling advanced features through non-standard protocols when controlled by compatible control devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a networked digital media device implements non-standard advanced functionalities, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but interoperability with standard control devices deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device's control interface is segmented into two distinct advertising identities: a standard digital media device identity that ensures interoperability with UPnP AV compliant control devices, and a non-standard digital media device identity that provides access to advanced functionalities. This segmentation allows different control devices to connect to the appropriate interface, resolving the conflict between standard interoperability and advanced feature access.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a device advertises both standard and non-standard playback device identities, then both interoperability and advanced functionality access are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges the standard and non-standard control protocol implementations into a single unified device architecture. Both the standard UPnP AV compliant control interface and the non-standard advanced functionality interface share common hardware resources and are managed by a single control protocol management system, reducing the complexity that would otherwise arise from maintaining completely separate device instances.
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are systems and methods for providing dual control functionality in a networked digital media device. In overview, a networked digital media device advertises a standard digital media device, which is discoverable and controllable by a standard control device in accordance with a standard media control protocol (also referred to as a Device Control Protocol, or DCP). The networked digital media device also advertises a non-standard digital media playback device, the non-standard device being discoverable and controllable by a non-standard control device in accordance with a non-standard media control protocol. These two devices are manifested in the same device hardware, essentially allowing the device to implement dual-control such that it is able to be controlled both as a standard device and a non-standard device.