Network Media Controller for Multi-Device Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional remote controls and universal remote controls are limited in controlling multiple media devices of different makes and models over a local network without prior configuration and require visual proximity, leading to user frustration in managing media content across various devices.

Innovation Solution

A device controller with a device control module that identifies and selects media devices in a local network, allowing it to control and display content on multiple media devices of different makes and models without prior configuration, and can switch content playback between media devices and itself based on location, using a network interface to transmit commands and display content on demand.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If conventional remote controls are used to control multiple media devices, then each device can be controlled, but multiple remote controls are required and they may be lost or misplaced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of controlling media devicesVSAvoidnumber of remote controls

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device controller is designed as a universal remote control system that can control multiple types of media devices (televisions, set-top boxes, media players) through a single device. The controller identifies available media devices on the network and allows selection of different devices to control, eliminating the need for multiple specialized remote controls.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If universal remote control is pre-programmed to control multiple media devices, then control capability is improved, but the remote control must be constantly updated with new makes and models

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompatibility with media devicesVSAvoidtime for updating remote control

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The device controller automatically identifies media devices on the local network without requiring manual programming or user configuration. The controller scans the network, detects available media devices, and presents them for selection, eliminating the need for users to manually update the remote control with new device makes and models.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs automatic device identification and network scanning in advance before the user needs to control a media device. By pre-identifying available devices on the network, the system is ready to control any media device immediately without requiring updates or configuration at the moment of use.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If conventional remote controls are used to control media devices, then media content can be displayed on media devices, but the content cannot be transferred to and displayed on the remote control itself

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedisplay capabilityVSAvoidcontrol functionality

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device controller is designed with dual functionality: it can both control external media devices and display media content on its own built-in display. The controller includes a display device and can receive and play media content, making it a multi-functional device that combines remote control capabilities with media playback capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Reliability

If remote control must be located in visual vicinity of media device to control it, then control signal transmission is reliable, but user mobility is restricted when managing multiple devices

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol signal transmissionVSAvoiduser mobility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces the mechanical/optical line-of-sight control method with network-based communication. The device controller communicates with media devices over a local network (wired or wireless), eliminating the requirement for visual proximity or line-of-sight. Users can control media devices from any location within network range, significantly improving mobility while maintaining reliable control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS11297370B1Media content controller

Publication Date: 2022.04.05 CSC HLDG LLC

AI summary

A system and method for controlling media devices are provided. A device controller includes a device control module. The device control module identifies media devices in a local network, such as a LAN. The device control module selects a media device from the identified media devices. Next the device control module selects content to be displayed on the selected media device. The device control module uses the local network to cause the selected media device to display the selected content.