Remote Control Signal Quality Feedback Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wireless remote control systems face challenges in diagnosing communication quality issues between devices and remote controls, leading to unnecessary equipment replacements and increased customer service costs due to limited diagnostic capabilities.
Innovation Solution
Implementing systems and methods that measure and provide feedback on the quality of wireless communications between remote controls and controlled devices, allowing for adjustments in device positions and noise source identification to improve signal quality, using bi-directional wireless signal monitoring and feedback mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If RF technology is used for remote control communication, then mobility and freedom of device placement are improved, but the ability to diagnose communication quality issues deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the remote control measures the quality of received RF signals and transmits this measurement data back to the controlled device. This allows communication quality to be monitored and diagnosed even when the device is placed remotely, resolving the contradiction between placement freedom and diagnostic capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary measurement and communication mechanism between the remote control and controlled device. The remote control acts as an active participant that measures signal quality and relays this information back, enabling indirect diagnosis of communication quality without requiring direct inspection of the signal path.
2Loss of time
If simple go/no-go diagnostic tools are used, then troubleshooting speed is improved, but equipment replacement decisions become inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces simple binary diagnostic tools with an electronic measurement system that quantifies communication quality. The remote control measures actual signal quality parameters and transmits numerical data, replacing subjective go/no-go assessments with objective quantitative measurements while maintaining quick troubleshooting.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the diagnostic approach from binary states (go/no-go) to continuous parameter measurements (signal quality metrics). By measuring and reporting actual communication quality parameters, the system enables more accurate assessment while still allowing for rapid troubleshooting through automated measurement and transmission.
3Device complexity
If no signal quality measurement is implemented, then device complexity is reduced, but customer service costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service diagnostic system where the remote control automatically measures communication quality and transmits measurement data back to the controlled device without requiring external diagnostic equipment or expert intervention. This minimal addition to device complexity enables automated troubleshooting and reduces customer service costs.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems, devices and methods provide feedback about the quality of communication between a device and a remote control. A wireless signal is sent between a controlled device and the remote control. The quality of the signal can be measured and reported to a user, installer, troubleshooter, customer service agent or other person in any manner. Quality may be determined based upon the strength of the received signal as well as the amount of noise that is present. The quality measurements provide feedback that allows a user, installer, customer service representative or other person to change the positions of the device or the remote control, or to take other actions based upon the quality of the wireless signal that is received.