Protocol Translator for Universal Remote Control Interoperability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Consumer electronics devices like computers and smartphones lack infrared interfaces, making it difficult to control devices like televisions and media players using infrared remote controllers, and existing protocol translators do not facilitate communication between devices with different communication protocols.
Innovation Solution
A control device with a first device interface for transmitting infrared signals, a user interface for input, a second device interface for receiving input signals from a computer using a different protocol, and a protocol translator to convert signals between protocols, enabling control of devices with different communication protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If protocol translators are used to enable communication between devices with different protocols, then interoperability is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protocol translator is designed with multi-functionality to reduce overall system complexity. It can connect to multiple types of devices through different interfaces (USB, Bluetooth) and translate to multiple infrared protocols, consolidating what would otherwise require multiple separate translation devices into a single universal solution.
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 remote control of devices with different communication protocols, allowing users to control devices like televisions and media players from computers and smartphones, providing interoperability and extending device functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The first device interface may comprise an infrared transmitter for transmitting infrared control signals to a remote device that comprises an infrared receiver
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a control device for remotely controlling other devices. The control device comprises a first device interface for transmitting control signals to a first device that is remote from the control device, a second device interface for receiving an input signal from a second device, a user interface corresponding to a function of the first device, and a protocol translator. The control signal is in accordance with a first communication protocol. The input signal is in accordance with a second communication protocol. The user interface is operable by a user so as to cause a control signal to be transmitted by the first device interface, for use by the first device. The protocol translator is configured to convert signals received by the second device interface from being in accordance with the second communication protocol to being in accordance with the first communication protocol.