Grid Pattern Remote Control for Video Device Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Remote controls for audio and video devices become overly complex with numerous buttons due to increased functions, making navigation time-consuming and confusing, especially when using directional pads for menu navigation.
Innovation Solution
A remote control system with a grid pattern of buttons that corresponds to user-selectable options on a video device's interface, allowing users to select options by pressing corresponding buttons, with the ability to switch between grid mode for option selection and standard mode for pre-set functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a directional pad is used for menu navigation, then the number of controllable functions increases, but the time required for navigation and selection increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control buttons are segmented into a grid pattern that corresponds to the menu structure on the display screen. Each button in the grid represents a specific menu item or category, allowing users to directly access functions without sequential navigation through a directional pad.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional directional pad navigation (up, down, left, right) to a two-dimensional grid system where buttons are arranged in rows and columns that map to menu categories and items. This dimensional change enables direct access to multiple functions simultaneously, reducing navigation time while maintaining versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more buttons are added to control increased functions, then the number of controllable functions increases, but the remote control complexity and confusion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The grid-pattern buttons serve multiple functions: they act as directional indicators, category selectors, and direct access buttons for menu items. Each button can represent different functions depending on the current menu context, reducing the total number of buttons needed while maintaining comprehensive control over device functions.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the grid pattern are assigned different functions based on their position. For example, outer buttons may represent category navigation while inner buttons represent item selection. This spatial organization creates an intuitive layout where button position conveys functional information, reducing complexity without limiting versatility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a directional pad is used for navigation, then alternate functionality beyond item-by-item navigation is not provided, but additional buttons are added to already filled remote controls
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of directional pad navigation, category selection, and item confirmation into a unified grid button system. Each button in the grid simultaneously provides directional context and direct access to corresponding menu items, eliminating the need for separate directional pad buttons and reducing the total button count while enhancing navigational versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A remote control system and related method for controlling a video device are presented. The remote control system contains a plurality of buttons arranged in a grid pattern that correspond to user selectable options displayed on a display screen arranged in the same grid pattern. The user selects options on the screen by pressing the corresponding button on the remote control.