NFC Mobile Remote Control for Proximity Object Identification
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current remote control systems for mobile devices face challenges in synchronization, the need for multiple controls for different objects, difficulties in updating user interfaces, and a lack of real-time feedback when controlling objects.
Innovation Solution
A near-field communication (NFC) enabled mobile device that detects and communicates with NFC element-associated objects, presenting object-relevant remote control user interfaces for user input, and wirelessly facilitates actions on the objects, enabling real-time feedback through proximity-based identification and communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional remote control systems are used, then direct wireless communication with objects is enabled, but synchronization and setup difficulties arise
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically detecting the remote control device and establishing communication channels before the user needs to control the object. The mobile device scans for and identifies the remote control device in advance, pre-configures the communication interface, and loads the appropriate control application, eliminating the need for manual synchronization setup during actual use.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple remote controls are provided for different objects, then each object can be controlled specifically, but device complexity and quantity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile device serves as a universal remote control that can interface with multiple different types of objects through a single device. The system uses a universal communication protocol that can adapt to different object types (televisions, audio equipment, lighting, climate control), allowing one mobile device to perform the functions that previously required multiple dedicated remote controls.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of providing physical copies of multiple specialized remote controls, the system creates virtual copies of remote control functionality through software applications on the mobile device. Each object type has a corresponding control application that replicates the control interface and functionality, allowing the user to access different control modes through software rather than physical devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If remote control user interfaces are updated, then control functionality improves, but update difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service updates by automatically detecting when control applications need updating and downloading the latest versions without user intervention. The mobile device monitors the remote control system, identifies available updates, and installs them automatically in the background, eliminating the need for users to manually check for or install interface updates.
4Ease of operation
If real-time feedback is implemented, then user experience improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by establishing bidirectional communication channels between the mobile device and the controlled object. The object can send status information, operational feedback, and system state data back to the mobile device in real-time, allowing the user interface to display current object states and provide immediate response to user actions without adding complex hardware or processing systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and effective remote control of objects with improved synchronization, single-device multi-object control capabilities, dynamic user interface updates, and real-time feedback, enhancing user experience and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a NFC reader (e.g., RFID tag reader) capable of wirelessly receiving a transmitted signal from a tag
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to systems and methods that enable a mobile device to be approximated with an object in order to enable control of the object. In one possible embodiment of a method of the invention, a mobile device is brought in physical proximity with an object, the identity of the object is determined wirelessly, based on such determination, a remote control user interface is presented by the mobile device, the mobile device receives input relating to a desired control action for the object, and the mobile device wirelessly communicates with a remote computer to facilitate control of the object. Various embodiments of the invention are possible to address a wide range of practical applications.