Remote Controller Angle Detection for Mode Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users face difficulties in recognizing and distinguishing the functions of various remote controllers for different AV devices due to their unique button configurations, leading to confusion and inefficiency in controlling multiple devices with universal remote controllers.

Innovation Solution

A remote controller equipped with an angle detection unit, such as an Earth magnetic field sensor and angular velocity sensor, sets a reference axis and detects rotational angles to determine the operating mode, allowing the device to change functions and control signals accordingly, enabling seamless operation across multiple host devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a universal remote controller is used to control various AV devices, then the number of remote controllers is reduced, but it becomes difficult to distinguish different operating modes and button functions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to control multiple AV devicesVSAvoiddifficulty in distinguishing operating modes and button functions

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The remote controller dynamically changes button functions and operating modes based on the detected gripping angle. The control unit identifies different gripping postures (e.g., horizontal vs. vertical orientation) and automatically switches between corresponding operating modes (e.g., TV mode vs. audio mode), allowing the same physical buttons to serve different purposes in different contexts without requiring mode selection buttons

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the functional parameter of buttons based on the gripping angle parameter. By detecting the orientation angle of the remote controller, the system maps different angle ranges to different operating modes, thereby changing the meaning and function of button presses without altering the physical button configuration

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If different remote controllers are used for various AV devices with unique button configurations, then each device can be controlled with dedicated buttons, but it becomes difficult to recognize and distinguish the functions of various remote controllers

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvededicated button control for each deviceVSAvoiddifficulty in recognizing and distinguishing remote controller functions

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The remote controller is designed with universal functionality to control multiple AV devices through a single controller. By incorporating angle detection capabilities, the same physical remote can reliably control different devices (TV, audio system, etc.) by detecting the user's gripping posture and switching to the appropriate operating mode, eliminating the need for multiple device-specific remotes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If angle detection is added to determine operating mode, then button functions can be dynamically changed, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveintuitive operation through angle-based mode switchingVSAvoidadded sensors and control logic

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical mode-selection mechanisms (such as mode buttons, switches, or manual configuration) with an automated angle detection system. By using sensors to detect the gripping angle and automatically switching operating modes, the system eliminates the need for complex mechanical interfaces and manual mode selection, reducing overall system complexity despite adding sensing capabilities

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

The solution allows for intuitive operation of remote controllers by changing button functions and control modes based on detected angles, simplifying the control of various AV devices with a single remote controller, enhancing user experience and reducing complexity.

Implementation Method 1

an angle detection unit to set a direction of an end of the remote controller to be a reference axis if a manipulation is input, and to detect a rotational angle between the reference axis and a front end axis of the remote controller

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectEarth magnetic field sensing: Magnetic Field

Implementation Method 2

The angle detection unit may be at least one of an Earth magnetic field sensor and an angular velocity sensor

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAngular velocity sensing: Angular Momentum

Data Source

PatentUS8217825B2Remote controller to set operating mode using angles, method of setting operating mode thereof, and method of determining host device

Publication Date: 2012.07.10 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

A remote controller, a method of setting an operating mode thereof, and a method of determining a host device. The remote controller includes an angle detection unit to set a direction of an end of the remote controller to be a reference axis if a manipulation is input, and to detect a rotational angle between the reference axis and the front end axis of the remote controller if the remote controller rotates, and a controlling unit to control the remote controller to operate in an operating mode corresponding to the rotational angle.