Two-Way Communication Remote Control Data Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Complex audiovisual systems face issues with remote control device failures, battery power depletion, communication obstacles, and customer education, leading to inefficiencies in controlling multiple entertainment devices.
Innovation Solution
A two-way communication system comprising a remote and a base device with transmitters, receivers, processors, and memory, enabling data synchronization, power conservation through sleeping modes, and seamless communication across multiple devices and locations, with integration of external systems for maintenance and customer support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If remote control devices are programmed to communicate with multiple entertainment devices, then control functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the control functionality between two separate devices: a base unit that stores all programming information and a remote control that serves as a portable interface. This segmentation allows the remote to remain simple while providing access to comprehensive control capabilities through communication with the base.
Solution Approach 2:
The base device acts as an intermediary between the remote control and the entertainment devices. The base stores the programming information and relays commands from the remote to the appropriate entertainment devices, allowing the remote to control multiple devices without containing all programming data itself.
2Adaptability or versatility
If battery-operated remotes are made more complex, then control capabilities are improved, but battery power depletes faster
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the power-intensive processing and data storage functions into the base unit, which remains stationary and powered, from the battery-operated remote. The remote serves primarily as a wireless input device, minimizing its power consumption while maintaining full control capabilities through communication with the base.
3Ease of operation
If data is stored only in the remote control, then portability is maintained, but data loss occurs when remote fails
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements different data storage characteristics at different locations: the base maintains a permanent, authoritative copy of all programming data, while the remote maintains a synchronized copy for offline operation. This ensures data preservation at the base while maintaining remote functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes bidirectional communication between the base and remote, allowing the remote to receive programming data from the base and transmit operational status back to the base. This feedback mechanism ensures data synchronization and prevents data loss.
4Area of stationary object
If communication range is extended to overcome obstacles, then system coverage is improved, but signal interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The base device serves as an intermediary communication hub that receives signals from the remote and translates them to the entertainment devices. This intermediary architecture allows the use of lower-power, shorter-range wireless communication between remote and base, reducing the need for high-power transmissions that would be more susceptible to interference.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and devices for controlling at least one entertainment device include at least one remote in two-way communication with a base device. Memories of the remote and the base device are operable to store substantially the same data as the other such that if the remote or base device fails, data in the memory of the non-failing device is loaded into a memory of a replacement device. A memory of a second remote may also store the same data as the remote memory such that if either the first remote or the base device fails, data in the memory of the second remote is loaded into a memory of a replacement device.