Remote Control Multipurpose Key Duration Logic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote control systems for digital video playback apparatus, such as PVRs, are overly complex due to separate keys for reverse, replay, skip, and forward functions, which becomes even more complicated when combined with other devices like DVD burners and televisions.
Innovation Solution
A digital video playback apparatus that responds to the duration of control signals from a remote control, using multipurpose keys for replay-reverse and skip-forward functions, where the duration determines the invoked action, allowing for integrated and simplified control of playback speeds and modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate keys are used for reverse, replay, skip, and forward functions, then each function can be controlled independently and reliably, but the remote control device becomes overly complex with many keys
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by designing remote control keys that perform multiple functions based on signal duration. The replay-reverse key and skip-forward key can each invoke different playback functions (replay, reverse, skip, forward) depending on whether the signal duration is short or long, eliminating the need for separate dedicated keys for each function while maintaining reliable control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If more functions are integrated into the PVR (cable receivers, VCRs, satellite television, Internet), then the device becomes more versatile, but the remote control unit becomes even more complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces remote control complexity by implementing multi-functional keys that adapt their behavior based on signal characteristics. The replay-reverse and skip-forward keys can control various playback functions across different integrated devices (PVR, VCR, cable receiver, satellite television) without requiring separate dedicated keys for each device or function, thus maintaining versatility while simplifying the remote control interface.
Data Source
AI summary
A video playback apparatus receives a control signal from a remote control device having a multipurpose key and assigns alternative functions to the received signal depending on the duration of time the control signal is received. For example, the remote may have a combination skip-forward multipurpose key which when pressed for less than a predetermined period such as one second, causes the video playback apparatus to invoke its skip mode, and when pressed for more than the predetermined period causes the video playback apparatus to invoke its forward, fast forward, or super fast forward mode, depending on the duration of time the key is pressed beyond invocation of the forward mode.