Universal Remote Control IR Code Auto-Assignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face inconvenience with separate remote controls for set-top boxes and TVs, requiring multiple devices for control, and existing solutions do not provide a straightforward method for assigning an IR code set to a remote control for TV control.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that allows a remote control to automatically assign an IR code set for a TV by entering a code set auto-scan mode, requesting and transmitting IR signals, and receiving the latest IRDB data from an external server, enabling minimal user manipulation for selecting and assigning IR code sets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate remote control is used for TV control, then TV control functionality is achieved, but the number of remote controls increases causing user inconvenience
Solution Approach 1:
The set-top box remote control is enhanced to perform both set-top box control and TV control functions. The remote control includes an IR transmitting unit that can send IR signals to the TV, and a processor that determines whether to control the set-top box or TV based on received signals. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a separate TV remote control while maintaining both control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the TV control functionality into the set-top box remote control by integrating an IR transmitting unit and a processor that can switch between set-top box and TV control modes. The remote control unit becomes a unified device that merges both control functions, reducing the total number of remote controls from two to one.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual IR code set assignment is used, then TV control is achieved, but complex user manipulation is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic IR code set assignment through self-service mechanisms. When the TV is powered on, the processor automatically receives manufacturer information from the TV, queries an external server for corresponding IR code sets, downloads the appropriate IRDB (infrared database), and assigns the correct IR code set to the IR transmitting unit without requiring manual user input. This eliminates complex manual manipulation while enabling TV control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically querying and downloading IR code sets from an external server before actual TV control is needed. The processor proactively retrieves manufacturer information, queries the server for matching IR code sets, and stores the IRDB in advance, so that when TV control is required, the appropriate IR codes are already assigned and ready for immediate use.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple IR code sets are stored, then compatibility with different TVs is improved, but the complexity of selecting the correct code set increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback mechanisms to automatically select the correct IR code set from multiple available sets. The processor receives manufacturer information from the TV as feedback, uses this information to query the external server for matching IR code sets, and automatically selects the appropriate code set based on the received feedback. This eliminates the need for manual selection and reduces complexity while maintaining compatibility with different TV brands.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes parameters by using TV manufacturer information as a key parameter to select the appropriate IR code set. Instead of requiring manual selection from multiple code sets, the processor changes the selection parameter from user-chosen to manufacturer-based automatic selection. The IRDB contains multiple code sets organized by manufacturer, and the system automatically changes to the correct code set based on the TV's manufacturer parameter.
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 the remote control to automatically assign an IR code set for TV control with minimal user interaction, ensuring seamless operation and eliminating the need for multiple remote controls.
Implementation Method 1
The communication module transmits remote control signals corresponding to the respective buttons when the the remote control buttons are manipulated
Data Source
AI summary
A method of assigning an IR code set of a TV using a remote control, and a system for supporting the method. the method includes entering, by the remote control, a code set auto-scan mode when a set button is manipulated, and transmitting a scan mode entry request signal to a set-top box; entering, by the set-top box, the code set auto-scan mode and transmitting a scan mode entry completion signal to the remote control; outputting, by the set-top box, the number of a plurality of the IR code sets of an IR database (IRDB) received from the remote control on the TV; transmitting, by the set-top box to the remote control, an IR code set transmission request signal for requesting transmission of an IR signal of any one particular IR code set among the IR code sets; and transmitting the IR signal by the remote control.