Remote Controller Power Management via Set-Top Box State Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Achieving a balance between power consumption and efficiency in remote controllers is challenging, as existing methods struggle to dynamically adjust settings to optimize performance and reduce power usage while maintaining functionality.
Innovation Solution
A multimedia system comprising a set-top box and a remote controller with integrated power management modules that detect current applications and adjust power modes and connection parameters dynamically, allowing the remote controller to synchronize with the set-top box to optimize power usage based on usage scenarios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If power consumption settings are adjusted to reduce energy usage, then power efficiency is improved, but operational efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power management by continuously monitoring the operational state of the set-top box and adjusting the remote controller's power consumption settings in real-time. When the STB is in high-activity states (playing video, processing signals), the RC maintains higher power levels for responsive control. When the STB is in low-activity states (standby, no signal), the RC automatically reduces power consumption. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by making power efficiency dependent on actual operational needs rather than using fixed settings.
2Device complexity
If fixed power settings are used in the remote controller, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different usage scenarios deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes a feedback mechanism where the set-top box communicates its current operational state to the remote controller, and the remote controller adjusts its power settings based on this feedback. The STB monitors its own state (video playback, signal processing, standby) and sends appropriate control signals to the RC. This feedback loop enables the RC to adapt to different usage scenarios automatically without requiring complex user configuration, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the remote controller continuously monitors and adjusts power modes, then adaptability to current applications is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power management functionality into the existing communication protocol between the set-top box and remote controller. Rather than adding a separate complex power management system, the invention utilizes the existing infrared or radio frequency communication channel to transmit power state information and control commands. The STB's processor handles the monitoring and decision-making logic, while the RC executes the power adjustment commands. This merging approach enables dynamic adaptability while minimizing additional system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for reducing power consumption of a controller remotely controlling a set-top box (STB) is executed by the STB. The STB comprises an STB-power-management table comprising multiple STB-power-management modes and multiple STB-connection parameters corresponding to the multiple STB-power-management modes. At least one remote controller (RC) is in communication with the STB. The method comprises the detection of a currently activated application or currently played contents within the STB. A mode and connection status between the STB and the RC is updated according to the detected information.