Remote Control via Image Capture Unit USB Signal Transfer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional KVM switches require an Internet connection and have complex build processes and high costs, failing to meet user expectations for remote operation.

Innovation Solution

A method of remote control using an image capture unit with a USB connector, processor, and USB-C connector to transfer control signals between a controlling end and a controlled end without a network, utilizing a user interface and ports to simplify the process and reduce costs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a conventional KVM switch is used for remote operation, then the controlled end can be operated through the controlling end, but the system requires Internet connection and has high equipment cost and complicated build process

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveremote operation capabilityVSAvoidbuild process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the essential remote control functionality from the complex KVM switch system by using only the image capture unit and USB connection. The unnecessary components (network switches, Internet connection infrastructure, complex switching mechanisms) are removed, leaving only the core image capture and transmission function that enables remote operation without the associated complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces expensive, complex KVM switch equipment with a simple, inexpensive image capture unit that can be implemented using basic USB camera technology. This disposable-like approach uses readily available, low-cost components instead of dedicated, expensive remote control hardware.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

2Ease of operation

If a conventional KVM switch is used for remote operation, then the controlled end can be operated through the controlling end, but the equipment cost and implementation cost are high

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveremote operation capabilityVSAvoidimplementation cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces expensive, complex KVM switch equipment with a simple, inexpensive image capture unit that can be implemented using basic USB camera technology. This disposable-like approach uses readily available, low-cost components instead of dedicated, expensive remote control hardware.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Solution Approach 2:

The image capture unit serves multiple functions: capturing images from the controlled end, transmitting images to the controlling end, and enabling remote operation. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate expensive components, reducing overall implementation cost while maintaining remote operation capability.

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

3Reliability

If Internet connection is interrupted in conventional KVM switch, then the system fails to operate, but users expect continuous remote operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveremote operation continuityVSAvoidnetwork dependency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the essential remote control functionality from the complex KVM switch system by using only the image capture unit and USB connection. The unnecessary components (network switches, Internet connection infrastructure, complex switching mechanisms) are removed, leaving only the core image capture and transmission function that enables remote operation without the associated complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Data Source

PatentUS10860519B2Method remote control
Publication Date: 2020.12.08 YUAN HIGH TECH DEV CO LTD
  • US10860519B2 patent drawing
  • US10860519B2 patent drawing
  • US10860519B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of remote control is provided. A user interface of a controlling end inputs switching control signal. A first port of the controlling end transfers the control signal to a USB connector of an image capture unit. After being handled by a processor, the control signal is transferred to at least one controlled end through a second port by a USB-C connector of the image capture unit. Thus, the controlling end connects to and communicates with the controlled end, where the controlling end operates the controlled end with the user interface. Hence, the controlling end operates the controlled end with the connection of the image capture unit without switches and network. A simple method is obtained with cost effectively reduced.