Infrared Receiver Attenuation for Plasma TV Noise Rejection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Newer display technologies like plasma TV screens emit strong infrared radiation, causing interference with two-way infrared communication between controlling devices and appliances, leading to signal noise issues.
Innovation Solution
The use of optical or electrical attenuation at the IR receiver of the controlling device, combined with a commensurate increase in the output of the IR transmitter of the appliance, improves the signal-to-noise ratio by reducing background infrared radiation interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two-way infrared communication is implemented between controlling device and appliance, then communication functionality is improved, but interference from plasma TV infrared radiation increases
Solution Approach 1:
An optical filter is introduced as an intermediary component between the infrared receiver and the incoming infrared radiation. This filter selectively transmits the communication signal wavelengths while blocking the plasma TV's infrared radiation, thereby mediating the interaction between the communication system and the interference source
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the infrared communication by using specific wavelength bands that are less susceptible to plasma TV interference. The optical filter is designed to pass specific infrared wavelengths while attenuating others, effectively changing the spectral parameters of the communication signal
2Reliability
If optical or electrical attenuation is applied at the IR receiver, then signal-to-noise ratio is improved, but received signal intensity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The aperture size of the optical filter is optimized to provide the precise amount of attenuation needed. By carefully controlling the physical dimensions and material properties of the filter, the system achieves the required noise reduction while preserving sufficient signal intensity for reliable communication
Solution Approach 2:
The patent provides both optical (passive filter) and electrical (active gain control) approaches. The electrical substitution involves using electronic amplification to compensate for the signal attenuation caused by the optical filter, replacing the need for a larger mechanical aperture
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances the reliability of bi-directional infrared communication by maintaining a consistent signal intensity while reducing noise from plasma TV screens, ensuring more effective data transfer and device control operations.
Implementation Method 1
optical or electrical attenuation at the IR receiver of the controlling device
Implementation Method 2
optical or electrical attenuation at the IR receiver of the controlling device
Implementation Method 3
increase in output of the IR transmitter of the appliance
Data Source
AI summary
Optical or electrical attenuation is provided at the infrared (IR) receiver of a first device, such as a remote control, together with a commensurate increase in output of the IR transmitter of an appliance, such as a set top box, to improve the signal-to-noise ratio of IR communications with respect to any background infrared radiation, such as radiation from a plasma display screen.