Mobile Device Virtual Remote Control for Entertainment Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face complexity and difficulty in navigating entertainment systems due to the need to manage multiple remote controls for various devices, and the frequent misplacement of remote controls complicates the navigation of video viewing systems.
Innovation Solution
A mobile communication device is used to remotely control entertainment devices, enabling users to control audio/video content presentation through a virtual remote control interface that communicates wirelessly with the entertainment device, allowing for navigation and control of content using user input and positional data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple remote controls are used for different entertainment devices, then each device can be controlled independently, but the complexity of managing multiple remote controls increases and users frequently misplace them
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple remote control functions into a single mobile communication device. The mobile device receives commands from the user and transmits them to multiple different entertainment devices (television, DVD player, cable box, etc.), eliminating the need for users to manage multiple separate remote controls while maintaining the ability to control each device independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile communication device is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as a remote control for various entertainment devices, provides navigation assistance, and displays information about available content. This universal device replaces multiple specialized remote controls with a single multi-functional tool that users already possess.
2Ease of operation
If remote controls are easily misplaced, then users lose access to control functions, but carrying multiple remote controls increases the burden of tracking them
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the universality of mobile communication devices that users already carry in their pockets or bags for communication purposes. By making this existing device also function as a remote control, the system eliminates the need to locate or carry separate remote controls, as users naturally have their mobile devices with them at all times.
3Ease of operation
If advanced navigation tools are provided in remote controls, then users can navigate complex video viewing systems, but the remote controls become more complex and harder to manage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device (the mobile communication device) that handles the complex navigation and control functions. The mobile device communicates with entertainment devices through standardized protocols, translating user input into appropriate control signals. This intermediary approach allows advanced navigation capabilities without increasing the complexity of what users directly interact with.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of apparatus and/or methods are described for remotely controlling an entertainment device using a mobile communication device. A user utilizes a mobile communication device to input information that requests manipulation of playback of content outputted for presentation by an entertainment device. The mobile communication device transmits the user input to the entertainment device, and responsive to receiving the user input, the mobile communication device manipulates playback of the video content.