Programmable Multimedia Controller for Unified Device Interoperability
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity of consumer electronic devices has increased interoperability and control challenges, with users facing difficulties in connecting and controlling various devices due to compatibility issues and the need for multiple remote controls, often requiring professional configuration.
Innovation Solution
A programmable multimedia controller that integrates audio, video, telephony, data, security, and motor-operated devices, using a microcontroller and processing subsystem to switch and control signals in multiple formats, with embedded control techniques and expansion capabilities for customization and interconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate control devices and interfaces are used for different electronic devices, then each device can be controlled independently, but the overall system complexity increases and user operation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate control functions into a single integrated control device that can control audio, video, telephony, data, security, and motor-operated devices through a unified interface, eliminating the need for multiple remote controls and simplifying user operation
Solution Approach 2:
The control device is designed with universal multi-functionality, capable of interfacing with and controlling diverse electronic devices including audio components, video equipment, telephony systems, data devices, security systems, and motor-operated devices through a single platform
2Adaptability or versatility
If various connection formats and protocols are supported for different devices, then device compatibility improves, but interconnection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control device serves as an intermediary between various electronic devices with different connection formats and protocols, translating and mediating communications between devices using analog cables, digital interfaces, and multiple protocol formats, thereby simplifying interconnections
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates universal multi-functionality by integrating support for multiple connection formats including analog audio/video, digital interfaces, and various communication protocols within a single control platform, enabling compatibility across diverse devices
3Reliability
If professional configuration is required for device interoperation, then system functionality can be optimized, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The control device incorporates self-service capabilities through automated device detection, automatic configuration protocols, and intelligent system setup that reduces or eliminates the need for professional configuration assistance, allowing users to operate the system independently
Data Source
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AI summary
A programmable multimedia controller, including audio and video switches, controls audio video, telephony, data, security, motor-operated, relay-operated, and/or other types of devices. Modules of the controller receive and output audio and video in a number of analog and digital formats, allowing the system to be interconnected to a wide range of devices. Small form factor general purpose personal computers may be operatively connected to provide processing power for the system, and to execute application programs. Further, a personal DVD player, or another device capable of displaying data and generating an audio output in response to user selection, may be used to control the programmable multimedia controller as part of embedded control technique. Additionally, a video overlay feature which allows video images, still frames, graphics, and/or text to be overlaid at any desired location of a display screen, is provided in some embodiments.