Universal Remote Control Setup With Guided STB Instructions
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The process of setting up and configuring a universal remote control is often demanding and frustrating for users due to lost or outdated user manuals, evolving brand and model names, and the complexity of manually entering appliance codes.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for simplifying the setup of a universal remote control using a cable or satellite set-top box (STB) equipped with data and an application that guides users through the setup process, allowing for easy selection of device type, brand, and code entry, with visual feedback and automatic code testing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users manually enter appliance codes using traditional methods, then the universal remote control can be configured to command appliances, but the setup process becomes demanding and frustrating for users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a television and its microprocessor as an intermediary system to facilitate the setup process. The television receives setup codes from the universal remote control and uses its own microprocessor to automatically test and validate the codes, eliminating the need for users to manually test each code. This mediator approach resolves the contradiction by making the setup process easier for users while maintaining the ability to configure the remote control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing the television's microprocessor to automatically test and validate the setup codes without requiring user intervention. The television itself performs the testing function, serving the remote control setup process autonomously. This reduces the burden on users and simplifies the overall setup procedure.
2Reliability
If users follow traditional setup procedures with printed manuals, then appliance codes can be entered into the universal remote control, but user frustration increases due to lost or outdated manuals
Solution Approach 1:
The television acts as a reliable intermediary that stores and processes setup codes digitally, eliminating dependence on physical printed manuals. The television's microprocessor systematically tests codes from its memory, ensuring reliable setup even when manuals are lost or outdated. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining setup reliability through digital storage while improving user friendliness through automated testing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of printed manuals and manual code entry with an electronic/digital system. The television's microprocessor electronically stores and automatically tests setup codes, substituting the manual paper-based process with an automated electronic process. This increases both reliability (digital storage prevents loss) and user friendliness (automated testing reduces effort).
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for enabling set up of a controlling device capable of controlling a plurality of appliances, via an interactive instruction set and associated programming. The programming is accessible by a STB or other controllable appliance and is configured to appropriately display interactive instructions and prompts to a user during a user initiated set up procedure for configuration of another controllable device (e.g., DVD, VCR, DVR, etc) available to the user.