Programmable Multimedia Controller XML Profiles
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of interconnecting and managing various consumer electronic devices, such as audio and video components, due to the lack of industry standards for control interfaces and the requirement for technical expertise to customize systems, makes it difficult for users to achieve optimal performance and integration.
Innovation Solution
A programmable multimedia controller based on a general-purpose computer with a specialized embedded system, utilizing XML files for component profiles, zone configurations, and service rules, allowing users to create and customize services without extensive programming knowledge, and enabling easy integration of diverse devices through a user-friendly interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a central controller operating on high-level computer language is used to integrate disparate components, then device integration capability is improved, but system complexity and technical expertise requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a standardized control interface as an intermediary layer between the central controller and disparate electronic devices. This mediator translates between the controller's commands and device-specific protocols, enabling integration without requiring the controller to directly understand each device's proprietary interface. The standardized interface acts as a buffer that simplifies the controller's task while maintaining compatibility with diverse devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal control interface that can communicate with multiple types of electronic devices through a single standardized protocol. This multi-functional interface replaces the need for separate control mechanisms for each device type, allowing one controller to manage diverse components (audio receivers, cable TV boxes, DVD players, etc.) through unified commands and procedures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If source code is made available for customization, then user flexibility is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to technical expertise requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables users to customize system behavior through configuration files and parameter settings rather than requiring source code modification. The system provides self-service tools that allow users to adjust device profiles, service parameters, and integration settings through user-friendly interfaces, eliminating the need for programming expertise while maintaining customization capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-configures device profiles and service templates with default settings that work out-of-the-box for common scenarios. Users can deploy the system immediately with pre-prepared configurations, and only need to make minor adjustments when customizing for specific needs. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for users to write or understand source code while still allowing flexibility.
3Reliability
If proprietary communication protocols are used in devices, then device functionality is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to integration complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a standardized control interface as a mediator between the central controller and devices using proprietary protocols. This intermediary layer handles protocol translation and adaptation, allowing the controller to communicate with devices through a uniform interface while preserving each device's original communication methods. The mediator absorbs the complexity of proprietary protocols without exposing it to the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates standardized interface profiles that replicate the essential control functions of proprietary protocols in a universal format. Instead of requiring direct implementation of each proprietary protocol, the system copies the necessary control capabilities into standardized interface definitions, allowing seamless integration while maintaining device-specific functionality through the standardized layer.
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated multimedia, entertainment, communications and control system. The system is based on a general purpose computer and is capable of interfacing with, controlling or managing a wide variety of audio, video, telecommunications, data communications or other devices. The system includes a programming environment for creating services or user experiences that may incorporate features or functionalities of several devices that are conventionally operated as separate, standalone devices.