Media Playback Device Proximity-Based Networked Device Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Media playback devices struggle to select the most suitable networked device for media content streaming due to the lack of physical distance data in network connections, resulting in devices appearing as options even when they are too far away, and an overwhelming number of devices on the same network making selection difficult.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that generate lists of device metadata based on proximity and signal strength, with a media playback device scanning for devices within a predefined range and displaying only the overlapping devices that are both connected to the network and physically close, using techniques like Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) or Ultra-Wideband (UWB) to determine proximity, and ordering them by signal strength for user selection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If devices are listed based on network connectivity alone, then all networked devices are visible to users, but devices too far away appear in the list making selection difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-dimensional network-based device listing to a multi-dimensional filtering system that incorporates both network connectivity and physical proximity dimensions. By combining network discovery protocols with proximity sensing capabilities, the system creates a two-dimensional selection criteria that simultaneously considers network availability and physical closeness, thereby improving device selection accuracy while reducing the number of irrelevant distant devices displayed.
2Productivity
If all networked devices are displayed to users, then comprehensive device availability is shown, but user selection becomes time-consuming and frustrating
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-filtering and pre-sorting devices based on proximity and signal strength before presenting them to the user. The system proactively identifies and ranks the most relevant devices (those closest to the user and capable of reliable connection) so that the most suitable options are already positioned at the top of the list, eliminating the need for users to manually search through all available devices and significantly reducing selection time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by customizing the device listing based on the user's local environment and preferences. Instead of presenting a uniform list of all networked devices, the system adapts the display to show devices sorted by their local proximity and signal characteristics, creating a personalized, context-aware device list that prioritizes the most relevant options for the current user situation.
3Measurement precision
If devices are listed without proximity information, then network connectivity is sufficient for selection, but physical distance cannot be determined
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer in the form of a proximity detection service that mediates between the network discovery protocol and the user interface. This intermediary component handles the complex proximity measurement tasks independently, providing simplified distance or proximity information to the device listing system without exposing the underlying complexity of proximity detection mechanisms to the user or requiring direct integration of complex sensing hardware.
Data Source
AI summary
An architecture is provided for displaying a list of connected devices by generating a first list of devices connected to the same local network and scanning for devices within a defined physical range of a media playback device. A second list of devices within the defined physical range is generated and compared to the first list to create a third list of devices with overlapping identifiers. The media playback device then displays the third list of devices on its interface according to proximity for the user to select an appropriate device for media playback.