HDMI Switching Device Automates Port Selection and Remote Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Home entertainment systems are complex to set up and control due to the multitude of devices and HDMI port configurations, making it difficult for users to manage connections, switch between devices, and access content efficiently.

Innovation Solution

A system with a switching device that automatically identifies and maps electronic devices to HDMI ports, selects the appropriate ports based on user commands or content selection, and controls the devices to simplify setup and operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If manual configuration of HDMI ports is implemented, then device connectivity is established, but user operation complexity increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveHDMI port configuration complexityVSAvoidUser setup and device switching ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs automatic device identification and port mapping without requiring user intervention. The switching device autonomously detects connected devices, determines their types (source or sink), and configures port assignments automatically, eliminating the need for manual HDMI port configuration by the user.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses enhanced detection capabilities including camera-based visual identification and microphone-based audio analysis to rapidly identify devices and their orientations, accelerating the setup process beyond traditional manual methods.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #38Strong oxidants (Accelerated oxidation)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple remote controls are used for different devices, then device control functionality is achieved, but operational convenience deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveDevice control capabilityVSAvoidRemote control operation convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The switching device serves multiple functions: it acts as an HDMI switch, a universal remote control, and a content discovery interface. A single remote control application on the user's device can control all connected devices (TV, set-top box, game console, etc.) through the switching device, eliminating the need to switch between multiple device-specific remote controls.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The switching device acts as an intermediary between the user's control device and multiple connected entertainment devices. It receives control commands, identifies the target device, and relays appropriate control signals, simplifying the control architecture to a single point of interaction.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If devices are connected through crowded wiring, then system connectivity is established, but system reconfigurability becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveDevice connection reliabilityVSAvoidSystem reconfiguration flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically detects and maps device connections during the initial setup phase, creating a stored configuration database. When devices are added or removed, the system can automatically update the mapping based on current detection, minimizing the need for manual reconfiguration and maintaining reliability while enabling flexibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically updates device port mappings based on real-time detection of connected devices. The configuration is not static but adapts automatically when devices are added or removed, allowing easy system reconfiguration without manual intervention while maintaining reliable connections.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Loss of time

If automatic device identification is implemented, then setup time is reduced, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveSetup and configuration timeVSAvoidAutomatic identification system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces manual mechanical identification methods (visually locating HDMI ports, physically tracing cables) with automated electronic detection using camera imaging, microphone audio analysis, and digital device communication protocols. This substitution dramatically reduces setup time while the complexity is managed through integrated software processing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS10855935B2Seamless setup and control for home entertainment devices and content

Publication Date: 2020.12.01 CAAVO INC

AI summary

Embodiments described herein enable a switching device to automatically select AV port(s) coupled to electronic device(s) that a user would like to use to watch and/or listen to content. The AV port(s) may be automatically selected based on receiving a command, determining that a particular remote control device is being used, and/or determining that a particular piece of content has been selected. Upon detection of such events, a source device for providing content is identified from among a plurality of source devices. Thereafter, an AV port from among a plurality of AV ports to which the identified source device is connected is identified. The identified AV port is then selected so that the identified source device becomes connected to an AV port to which a sink device is connected. In this way, the switching device can provide content from the identified source device to the sink device for presentation thereby.