Gesture Detection System for Universal Device Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for controlling controllable devices, such as lights and home multimedia equipment, are often cumbersome and inconvenient, especially for users with mobility or dexterity issues, as they require multiple device-specific remote controls or complex software setups, and do not provide intuitive operation.
Innovation Solution
A gesture detection system that uses a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium with instructions to emit signals, discover controllable devices, and detect predetermined gestures to control their operational states, allowing for simplified and intuitive operation without the need for device-specific remote controls or extensive setup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If device-specific remote controls are used for each controllable device, then each device can be controlled reliably, but the user must keep track of multiple remote controls and the operation becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple device-specific remote controls into a single universal remote control that can control multiple different devices. The system integrates control capabilities for various device types (lights, TV, stereo, etc.) into one unified remote interface, eliminating the need for users to manage multiple separate remotes while maintaining reliable control over each device type.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote control device is designed with universal functionality to control multiple types of controllable devices. It includes adaptable interfaces and protocols that can communicate with different device categories (lighting, entertainment, appliances), making a single remote sufficient for controlling diverse devices that previously required separate specialized remotes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If personal computing devices with software applications are used to control controllable devices, then control functionality can be achieved, but the setup process becomes complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary configuration and device discovery automatically during initial setup, storing control parameters and device identifiers in advance. This preliminary action captures all necessary control mappings before the user needs to operate the devices, eliminating the need for repeated complex setup procedures and enabling immediate use of control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote control system includes automatic device discovery and configuration capabilities that perform setup tasks autonomously without requiring extensive user programming. The system self-configures by detecting available controllable devices, establishing communication protocols, and storing control mappings automatically, reducing setup time from hours to minutes while maintaining versatile control functionality.
3Reliability
If power switches are located on cords behind furniture or under devices, then device control is possible, but accessibility becomes difficult for users with mobility issues
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless remote control acts as an intermediary device that transmits control signals to controllable devices without requiring physical contact with the devices or their power switches. Users can control devices from a distance by sending wireless commands, eliminating the need to physically reach behind furniture or under devices to access power switches, while maintaining full operational capability.
Data Source
AI summary
Gesture recognition systems that are configured to provide users with simplified operation of various controllable devices such as, for example, in-home controllable devices. In one implementation, the gesture recognition system automatically configures itself in order to determine the respective physical locations and/or identities of controllable devices as well as an operating mode for controlling the controllable devices through predetermined gesturing. In some implementations, the gesture recognition systems are also configured to assign boundary areas associated with the controllable devices. Apparatus and methods associated with the gesture recognition systems are also disclosed.