Remote Control with Optical Distance Measurer for Voice Amplification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current remote control devices for set-top boxes lack the ability to efficiently transmit voice commands and adjust audio amplification based on user proximity, leading to suboptimal user experience and functionality in controlling IPTV systems.
Innovation Solution
The remote control device incorporates a two-way audio transceiver, microphone, LED annulus, optical distance measurer, and infrared transmitter, allowing it to transmit voice commands and adjust audio amplification dynamically based on user distance through RF control signals, enabling improved interaction with set-top boxes and IPTV systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional infrared remote control is used, then the device structure remains simple, but the functionality for voice command transmission and dynamic audio amplification adjustment is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control device integrates multiple functions including voice command transmission via two-way audio transceiver, distance measurement via optical sensor, and dynamic audio amplification control. This multi-functional approach allows a single device to perform diverse operations (voice commands, distance-based amplification adjustment, traditional IR control) that would otherwise require separate devices, thereby improving adaptability while managing complexity through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines previously separate components (infrared transmitter, two-way audio transceiver, optical distance measurer, and processor) into a single integrated remote control unit. This merging enables the device to coordinate multiple functions (voice transmission, distance measurement, amplification control) simultaneously, resolving the contradiction by achieving enhanced functionality through component integration rather than through multiple separate devices.
2Ease of operation
If voice commands are transmitted without distance-based amplification adjustment, then the device operation remains simple, but the user experience quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control incorporates an optical distance measurer that continuously monitors the user's distance from the device and provides feedback to the processor. Based on this feedback, the system automatically adjusts the amplification of voice commands transmitted to the set-top box. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enhances user experience by ensuring optimal voice signal reception regardless of distance, while the automation reduces the operational complexity for the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs automatic amplification adjustment based on detected distance without requiring manual user intervention. The processor autonomously calculates the appropriate amplification level and adjusts the audio output accordingly, allowing the device to serve itself in optimizing performance. This self-service capability improves user experience while maintaining ease of operation, as users simply speak naturally without needing to manually configure amplification settings.
3Ease of operation
If audio amplification is adjusted based on user distance, then the interaction quality improves, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical distance measurer and audio amplification adjustment operate periodically rather than continuously. The system measures distance at relevant intervals (e.g., when voice commands are detected or at regular checkpoints) and adjusts amplification accordingly. This periodic operation reduces energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring and adjustment, while still maintaining high interaction quality by ensuring amplification is optimized at critical moments during user interaction.
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 solution enhances user interaction by allowing voice command transmission and real-time audio amplification adjustment, improving the functionality and user experience of remote control devices for IPTV systems.
Implementation Method 1
an optical distance measurer, allowing it to transmit voice commands and adjust audio amplification dynamically based on user distance
Implementation Method 2
The target device uses the IR control signal to determine what command function the user is requesting
Data Source
AI summary
A remote control device includes a digital audio storage device, a talk button, and an optical distance measurer. The digital audio storage device is configured to continually record an audio input for a specific amount of time. The talk button is coupled to the digital audio storage device and is configured to initiate a transmission of the audio input to a set-top box device. The optical distance measurer is coupled to the talk button and is configured to automatically measure a distance to a user in response to the talk button being pressed.