Mobile Device Pairing via Server Code for Hotel Entertainment Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hotel room entertainment systems do not effectively utilize mobile devices for control and content access, as they lack the necessary hardware for seamless communication and substitution with traditional remote controls does not enhance functionality.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for pairing a mobile device with an output device through a mobile application and a mobile connect server, using a pairing code to enable control and access to personalized content, where the mobile device can communicate over various networks to interface with interactive equipment, allowing users to control output devices and authorize payments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mobile devices are used to control entertainment systems, then user convenience and functionality are improved, but hardware compatibility and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mobile application as an intermediary layer between the mobile device and the entertainment system. The application handles communication protocols, device pairing, and control signal translation, thereby improving ease of operation while managing system complexity through software abstraction rather than hardware modification.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile application is designed to work with multiple entertainment systems and devices through a universal interface. It supports various control functions (volume, channel, playback) and communicates over different networks (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth), making the solution broadly applicable without increasing per-device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mobile devices substitute traditional remote controls, then functionality is enhanced, but hardware requirements and setup complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical remote control system with a software-based mobile application. Instead of using infrared or radio frequency hardware in the remote, the solution uses network communication protocols (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) and software applications to achieve control, thereby enhancing functionality while eliminating the need for additional hardware components.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile application replicates the functionality of a traditional remote control through software. It creates a virtual remote interface on the mobile device that mirrors the capabilities of physical remotes, allowing users to control entertainment systems without needing the original hardware remote or additional control devices.
3Reliability
If pairing codes are used for device association, then security and device identification are improved, but user interaction steps increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the entertainment system displays a pairing code, the user enters it into the mobile application, and the system provides immediate confirmation of successful pairing. This feedback loop ensures reliable device identification and association while keeping the process straightforward and quickly resolvable.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for associating or pairing a mobile device with a local output device via a central or mobile connect server system are provided. Pairing is performed by initiating a pairing request from an output device that is passed to the mobile connect server for processing. The mobile connect server responds to the request with a pairing code that is displayed by the output device. A user of the mobile device then enters the displayed pairing code in the mobile device. The mobile device transmits the entered pairing code to the mobile connect server and, in response to a match, the mobile device is paired to the output device. Pairing can enable various functions, including an ability to control programming or other information displayed by the output device in response to commands entered in the mobile device.