Remote Control Custom Button Display Operating State
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote control devices for air-conditioning apparatuses do not allow users to check the operating state of the apparatus before activating a function, requiring users to look at the apparatus itself, which decreases convenience.
Innovation Solution
A remote control device with a display unit showing the operating state and a touch panel that allows users to operate custom buttons assigned with specific functions while viewing the state, enabling function activation without needing to check the apparatus directly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If functions are assigned to custom buttons in accordance with user request, then operability in selecting a function is improved, but the user cannot check the operating state of the apparatus before activating the function
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the custom button for function activation with the display of operating state information into a single integrated interface element. When the user touches the custom button area on the display, it simultaneously shows the operating state (such as whether the air conditioner is running, temperature settings, or mode) and allows function activation, merging information display and control functions into one interaction point.
Solution Approach 2:
The display screen acts as an intermediary between the user and the apparatus state. Instead of requiring direct visual inspection of the apparatus or separate display elements, the touch display mediates by showing operating state information in response to user interaction with the custom button, providing indirect but sufficient information about the apparatus condition.
2Measurement precision
If the user needs to look at the main body of the apparatus to check the operating state, then accurate state information is obtained, but convenience is decreased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a visual copy or representation of the apparatus operating state directly on the remote control's display screen. Instead of requiring the user to view the actual apparatus, the display shows a replicated view of the operating state (temperature, mode, runtime status) that accurately reflects the apparatus condition, allowing verification without physical inspection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functions are available on the remote control, then versatility is improved, but the complexity of selecting functions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the custom button's function and appearance context-dependent on the displayed operating state. The button's label, icon, or visual characteristics change based on the current apparatus state (e.g., showing different information for cooling vs. heating mode), allowing the interface to adapt its local properties to the global system state and reduce selection complexity.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
A remote control device includes a display unit 13 configured to display various screens including at least one main screen indicating an operating state of an apparatus to be operated, a touch panel 15 disposed over the display unit 13, and a controller 11 configured to cause at least one custom button 201 to be displayed on the main screen along with the operating state. The custom button 201 is assigned with one of a plurality of functions of the apparatus in accordance with a user operation.