Remote Control Pairing via Identification Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
In households with multiple electronic components, there is a common issue of misplaced remote controls, as existing systems lack an effective method to correlate a remote control with its corresponding electronic component, especially in environments where multiple devices have identical or similar remote controls.
Innovation Solution
A system and method where a remote control can be reprogrammed to associate with a set-top box by transmitting a pairing signal, which triggers the set-top box to emit a unique identifying signal displayed on connected televisions, allowing the remote to sense and reconfigure itself to control the correct device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electronic components use identical or similar remote controls, then the versatility and adaptability of remote controls is improved, but the reliability of correct remote-component pairing deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary pairing actions by having the remote control transmit its identification signal to the electronic component before actual use. The component stores this signal and uses it to verify subsequent control commands, ensuring correct pairing is established in advance.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic component provides feedback by transmitting an acknowledgment signal back to the remote control when it receives the identification signal. This two-way communication confirms successful pairing and allows the remote to verify it is correctly associated with the intended component.
2Device complexity
If no identification system is implemented, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to user burden of determining remote-component correspondence
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control and electronic component perform the pairing operation autonomously through self-service. The remote automatically transmits its identification signal when activated, and the component automatically receives and stores it, eliminating the need for manual configuration or complex setup procedures by the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical pairing methods with an automated electronic identification system. Instead of physically matching remotes to components through user judgment, the system uses electronic signal transmission and storage to automatically establish and verify pairings.
3Reliability
If a pairing system with identification signals is implemented, then the reliability of remote-component association is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional signaling mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control serves multiple functions: it acts as both a control device for operating the electronic component and as an identification device for establishing the pairing relationship. The electronic component similarly functions as both the controlled device and the verification device, reducing the need for separate dedicated identification hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The identification signal acts as an intermediary that mediates the pairing relationship between the remote control and electronic component. This signal carries the necessary information to establish association without requiring direct physical connection or complex communication protocols between the devices.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and device for associating a remote with a component. The method and system may include receiving a control command from the remote. Upon receiving the control command, an identification signal may be transmitted to a display. The identification signal may include information for identifying the component. The remote may be associated with the component based on the identification signal.