Integrator Merging Video Signals for Multi-Subsystem Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current systems for monitoring and controlling multiple disparate computer systems are limited in their ability to integrate display information and control inputs, often requiring users to manage separate systems with different operating systems and display devices, lacking real-time functionality and customization options.

Innovation Solution

A system that includes an integrator interfacing between a workstation and multiple subsystems, translating incompatible display signals and commands into a common form for integrated monitoring and control, featuring a display processor for generating composite display signals and a command processor for managing input devices and access limitations, allowing customization of the display layout and saving of user-defined configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple separate computer systems are used to monitor and control different subsystems, then each system can be optimized for its specific function, but the operator must manage multiple workstations and display devices increasing operational complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem functionalityVSAvoidnumber of workstations
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple separate computer systems into a single integrated workstation. The display processor merges video signals from multiple subsystems into a single composite display, while the command processor consolidates control inputs from keyboard and mouse into unified commands that can be directed to any connected subsystem. This merging eliminates the need for multiple separate workstations while maintaining full functionality for monitoring and controlling diverse subsystems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated control system provides universal functionality by enabling a single workstation to monitor and control multiple different subsystems simultaneously. The display processor can handle various video signal formats and the command processor can translate different input device commands into subsystem-specific control signals, making the system adaptable to diverse subsystems without requiring separate dedicated workstations for each.

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

2Ease of operation

If display integrators are used to combine multiple images on a single display, then the user can monitor multiple systems from one display device, but the number of control input devices is not reduced and command inputs cannot be redirected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay monitoringVSAvoidcontrol input devices
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges both display monitoring and control input functions into a single integrated system. Unlike display integrators that only combine images, this system combines multiple video inputs with multiple control inputs (keyboard and mouse) into unified processing. The command processor consolidates control signals from the keyboard and mouse, enabling single-device control of multiple subsystems while the display processor integrates multiple video feeds into one composite display.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The command processor acts as an intermediary between the control input devices (keyboard and mouse) and the multiple subsystems. It receives commands from the input devices, translates them into appropriate subsystem-specific commands, and redirects them to the intended target subsystem. This intermediary function enables seamless control of multiple subsystems through a single set of control devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If personal computers are used to monitor and control subsystems with custom display configurations, then the user can customize display layouts, but real-time control of multiple diverse systems is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay customizationVSAvoidreal-time control capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The display processor dynamically adjusts and integrates video signals from multiple subsystems in real-time based on their different refresh rates and resolutions. The system continuously processes and composite multiple video feeds without requiring manual reconfiguration, enabling flexible display customization while maintaining real-time control capability across all connected subsystems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS7353458B2Computer presentation and command integration method
Publication Date: 2008.04.01 ROSS VIDEO LIMITED
  • US7353458B2 patent drawing
  • US7353458B2 patent drawing
  • US7353458B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for integrating the monitoring and control of multiple subsystems. The method may include receiving a plurality of display signals, generating a composite display signal defining a plurality of windows, and transmitting the composite display signal to a display. Typically, within the composite display signal, each display signal corresponds to at least one window. The method may further include receiving commands from a user, forming a layout by controlling, according to the commands, the relative size, position, etc. of each window, and saving the layout for recall and future use.