Media File Analysis for Flexible Building Appliance Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing building automation systems require pre-encoded video files with control information and specific device programs, limiting flexibility in controlling devices, as only predetermined programs can be started with these files.

Innovation Solution

A method and control device that analyze any media file to extract relevant control information, using algorithms like speech and image recognition, allowing flexible control of devices integrated into the system without pre-encoded data, enabling users to control devices directly from media files like videos or recipes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If video files are pre-encoded with control information and devices contain preset programs, then device control can be achieved, but system flexibility is limited and only predetermined programs can be started

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem flexibilityVSAvoidpre-encoded data requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by automatically analyzing media files to extract control information without requiring manual pre-encoding or user configuration. The analysis unit autonomously processes media files, identifies control-relevant information, and generates control commands, eliminating the need for predetermined programs and pre-encoded video files.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical system of pre-encoded control data and preset programs with an intelligent analysis system. Instead of relying on predefined control information embedded in media files, the system uses analysis units with algorithms to automatically extract control information from any media file, substituting rigid pre-programming with flexible automated content analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If manual data entry is required in the building automation system, then control precision can be maintained, but user convenience deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser convenienceVSAvoidcontrol information extraction accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback mechanisms where the analysis unit continuously monitors media file content and adjusts its analysis based on extracted information quality. The control device receives feedback from devices about their status and automatically adjusts control commands, creating a closed-loop system that maintains accuracy while automating the process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The analysis unit serves as an intermediary between media files and the building automation system. It automatically extracts control information from diverse media formats and translates it into system-compatible commands, eliminating the need for manual data entry while maintaining information accuracy through automated parsing and validation algorithms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Speed

If analysis of media files is performed in real-time, then responsiveness is improved, but processing time and computational resources increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol responsivenessVSAvoidcomputational resource consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary analysis by pre-processing media files to identify control-relevant segments before executing full analysis. The analysis unit scans media files for control information markers and prepares extraction routines in advance, enabling faster real-time processing when actual control actions are required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The analysis system dynamically adjusts its processing intensity based on real-time requirements. When control actions are needed, the system intensifies analysis to extract information quickly. Between control events, it reduces processing load by monitoring only for new control-relevant content, optimizing the balance between responsiveness and resource consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3458920B1Method and control device for controlling an apppliance on the basis of a media file, computer program product, and building automation system
Publication Date: 2021.09.08 AIZO GROUP
  • EP3458920B1 patent drawingFigure 1

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for controlling at least one appliance incorporated in a system by using a control device, comprising the steps: selection and/or retrieval of a media file by a user or the system, analysis of the media file and extraction of the information relevant to the control from the media file, transmitting control commands to the at least one appliance on the basis of the information extracted from the media file.