Remote Control Configuration via Matrix Code Decoding

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for configuring remote control devices are burdensome, requiring users to manually enter information such as address details and selection element configurations, which can be complex and time-consuming, especially when dealing with multiple devices or advanced functionalities.

Innovation Solution

The method involves generating and transmitting matrix codes, such as QR codes, from an electronic device to a display device, which are then detected and decoded by a remote control device to configure it for controlling the electronic device, including user proficiency level-based feature subsets, enabling pairing and configuring selection elements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual configuration methods are used for remote control devices, then users can configure the devices, but the process becomes burdensome and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration processVSAvoidconfiguration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses matrix codes (visual copies of configuration data) to transfer device identification and configuration information from the electronic device to the remote control device. Instead of manual entry, the remote control device captures and decodes the matrix code displayed on the electronic device's screen, automatically obtaining all necessary configuration data including device ID, communication protocols, and feature sets.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical/manual process of typing configuration data with an optical system. The electronic device displays a matrix code visually, the remote control device's camera or optical sensor captures the image, and image processing algorithms automatically extract and decode the information, eliminating the need for manual keyboard entry.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If comprehensive configuration information is provided for all features, then advanced functionalities are supported, but the configuration process becomes more complex for basic users

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefeature supportVSAvoidconfiguration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent dynamically adapts the configuration process based on user proficiency level. The system detects whether the user is basic or advanced and automatically adjusts the matrix code content and remote control interface accordingly. Basic users receive simplified matrix codes with only essential configuration data, while advanced users receive comprehensive codes including all feature sets and technical parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies different levels of configuration detail to different user groups. The matrix code generation system selectively includes or excludes certain configuration fields based on the detected user proficiency level, providing localized quality of information - basic users get only necessary minimal information, while advanced users receive complete technical specifications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Reliability

If matrix codes include all configuration information, then complete device control is achieved, but the matrix code size and complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice pairing accuracyVSAvoidmatrix code complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The matrix code structure is dynamically adjusted based on user proficiency level. The system generates compact matrix codes for basic users containing only essential pairing information, while generating more comprehensive codes for advanced users who need complete configuration data. This dynamic adaptation maintains reliability while minimizing unnecessary complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

This approach simplifies the configuration process by eliminating manual data entry, allowing users to easily pair and configure remote control devices with electronic devices, enabling full or subset feature sets based on proficiency levels, thus enhancing user experience and reducing complexity.

Implementation Method 1

a remote control device may optically capture the matrix code, decode the configuration information

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical detection: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentEP2666304B1Configuring remote control devices utilizing matrix codes
Publication Date: 2019.04.03 ECHOSTAR TECH LLC
  • EP2666304B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2666304B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2666304B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An electronic device determines information for configuring control of the device by a remote, generates a matrix codes including the information, and transmits the matrix code to a display device. The remote then captures the displayed matrix code, decodes the information, and configures itself to control the electronic device. Configuration of the remote may include pairing, configuring selection elements of the remote, and so on. In some implementations, the electronic device may interact with another device and the information may be for configuring the remote to control the electronic device in the context of the other device. Additionally, in various implementations, the remote may transmit identifying information to the electronic device which may configure itself to further communicate with the remote utilizing such information. Moreover, in various implementations, the remote may capture matrix codes generated by other devices in order to configure the remote to control those devices as well.