Multi-Screen Display Control for Same-Protocol IR Source Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Display devices struggle to separately control multiple source devices using the same infrared (IR) protocol, leading to unintended control of devices when a common IR protocol is used.
Innovation Solution
A display device with processors that can identify and selectively control individual source devices using the same IR protocol by transmitting IR signals through transmitters, utilizing Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) lines and Ethernet hubs, and managing IR functions of other devices to ensure precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a common IR protocol is used for multiple source devices, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases and separate control becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control system by introducing unique identifiers (device IDs) for each source device. The display device divides the control process into two stages: first, receiving and storing device IDs from multiple source devices; second, using these IDs to selectively route IR signals to the intended target device. This segmentation allows separate control of devices using the same IR protocol by adding device ID verification to the control flow.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple source devices use the same IR protocol, then adaptability is improved, but reliability of control decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where source devices send their device IDs to the display device during initialization. The display device stores these IDs and uses them to verify the intended target before transmitting IR control signals. This feedback loop ensures that control signals are reliably directed to the correct device, preventing unintended control while maintaining compatibility with multiple devices using the same IR protocol.
3Ease of operation
If integrated remote control is used for multiple source devices, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision of control target decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having source devices pre-register their device IDs with the display device before control operations begin. This preliminary registration creates a lookup table in the display device that maps device IDs to specific source devices. When control is needed, the system simply queries this pre-established mapping, ensuring precise identification of the control target without requiring complex real-time detection.
Data Source
AI summary
A display device and a control method therefor are disclosed. The display device includes: a display; a transmitter configured to transmit an infrared (IR) signal; and one or more processors configured to: control the display to display a multi-screen including a plurality of images based on a plurality of image signals received from a plurality of source devices, each of the plurality of source devices using a same IR protocol; perform, based on a user command indicating a first image from among the plurality of images, a process for selectively controlling a first source device, from among the plurality of source devices, which provides the first image; and transmit an IR signal for selectively controlling the first source device through the transmitter.