Universal Remote Control Command Set Definition via Keystroke Entry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing universal controlling devices face challenges in upgrading to control new appliances without additional hardware, as they require tedious and error-prone initial teaching processes or additional hardware components like modems and IR receivers.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that allows consumers to manually enter a short sequence of keystrokes on the keypad to define new command code sets for appliances not previously supported, using a Web server to match existing data within the device and encode the necessary keystrokes for entry, minimizing hardware requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If preprogrammed libraries of command codes are used in universal controlling devices, then the ease of operation is improved, but the adaptability deteriorates because unknown appliances cannot be controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The controlling device transitions from a static preprogrammed library to a dynamic system where command codes can be automatically learned and stored. The device dynamically adapts its command code library by capturing signals from unknown appliances during a learning process, enabling it to control both known and unknown devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary learning action by capturing and storing command codes from original equipment remote controls before actual use. This preliminary acquisition of command codes through automated learning eliminates the need for manual entry while maintaining ease of operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple methods for upgrading preprogrammed controlling devices are provided, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional hardware requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The controlling device is designed with universal functionality to support multiple upgrade methods including preprogrammed libraries, learning capabilities, and manual entry. This multi-functional design allows the same device to adapt to different scenarios without requiring separate specialized hardware for each method.
Solution Approach 2:
The controlling device performs self-upgrading by automatically learning command codes from appliances during an initial teaching process. This self-service capability eliminates the need for external programming equipment or complex upgrade hardware, reducing device complexity while maintaining adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional hardware components are added to enabling upgrading, then the adaptability is improved, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates due to increased expense and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the upgrade capability from complex additional hardware components and implements it through software-based learning and manual entry methods. By removing the requirement for built-in modems, IR receivers, and external cables, the device maintains adaptability while significantly simplifying manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses simple, inexpensive methods for upgrading including manual key entry and basic learning protocols that do not require expensive persistent hardware additions. These minimal-cost approaches enable adaptability without compromising ease of manufacture.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system and method for configuring a controlling device to allow the controlling device to generate commands for commanding operations of a new appliance which new appliance was previously unable to be supported by the controlling device. The system and method uses a definition input into the controlling device to create a new device data set for use in generating commands to command operations of the new appliance. The new device data set is a new combination of elements selected from device data sets already stored within a memory of the controlling device.