Home Network Input Processing with Collision Prevention

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for processing input data from multiple input devices in a network environment, such as UPnP, face challenges including input collisions and the inability to handle diverse input types, leading to inflexibility and limitations in wireless or network environments.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that allow for setting and changing processing schemes for multiple inputs from various UPnP input devices, automatically selecting a preset reference to manage and process inputs from multiple senders, including a control point for session setup, a receiving part for signal processing, and a transmitting part to handle inputs according to user intention and device configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a host device includes all types of device drivers to support various input devices, then the host device can recognize and process inputs from any input device, but the device complexity and storage requirements increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinput device compatibilityVSAvoiddriver management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal driver architecture where a single driver can handle multiple types of input devices through standardized interfaces and protocols. The system uses abstracted device models and configuration files to adapt to different device types without requiring separate dedicated drivers for each device, thus reducing complexity while maintaining versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary layer between the host device and various input devices, consisting of standardized communication protocols and abstraction interfaces. This intermediary enables the host to communicate with diverse input devices through a unified interface, eliminating the need for the host to directly manage multiple specific device drivers

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If conventional UPnP methods process inputs from multiple input devices, then network input capability is enhanced, but input collisions occur and the system cannot handle diverse input types flexibly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork input processing capabilityVSAvoidinput signal reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the input processing system into distinct functional modules including input reception, input identification, collision detection, and input routing components. Each module handles specific aspects of input processing independently, allowing the system to manage multiple input sources systematically and prevent collisions through structured processing pipelines

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary input validation and registration mechanisms that check for potential collisions before inputs are fully processed. The system pre-configures input handling rules and device priorities, establishing a framework that prevents conflicts before they occur rather than resolving them after collision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If a single processing scheme is used for all input devices in a network, then the system is simpler to implement, but the system lacks flexibility to handle different input types and user intentions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing scheme implementationVSAvoidinput handling flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic processing scheme where the system automatically adapts input handling methods based on the specific input device type, user preferences, and current operational context. The processing scheme can be dynamically configured and modified without requiring complete system reconfiguration, allowing flexibility while maintaining ease of operation through automated adaptation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9344293B2Apparatus and method for processing multiple inputs of users of a home network
Publication Date: 2016.05.17 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US9344293B2 patent drawing
  • US9344293B2 patent drawing
  • US9344293B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed is a method and apparatus for processing multiple inputs from a plurality of users in a home network. A control point requests electronic devices in the home network to transmit input capability information, receives the input capability information as a response to the request from the electronic devices, and performs session setup using the input capability information by determining a receiver for receiving input signals and at least two senders for sending input signals. The control point transmits input signals transmitted by the at least two senders to the receiver.