Multi-Device Remote Control Using Signal Strength Target Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Managing multiple display and media devices with numerous control devices leads to physical clutter, user confusion, and frustration due to the difficulty in remembering which device controls which function.
Innovation Solution
A single remote-control device controls multiple multimedia devices by measuring wireless signal strengths and using sensor data from embedded components like cameras, accelerometers, and gyroscopes to identify and communicate with the target device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control devices are used to manage multiple display and media devices, then each device can be controlled independently, but physical clutter and user confusion increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal remote control device that can control multiple different types of display and media devices through wireless communication. The remote control is configured to communicate with various multimedia devices using different wireless protocols (WiFi, Bluetooth, infrared), enabling a single device to perform multiple control functions across different device types, thereby eliminating the need for separate control devices for each media device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the control functions for multiple display and media devices into a single remote control unit. By integrating multiple wireless communication modules and control protocols into one remote control device, the system merges what would traditionally require multiple separate controls into a single unified control interface, reducing physical clutter while maintaining comprehensive control capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control devices are used to manage multiple display and media devices, then each device can be controlled independently, but user confusion and frustration increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic device identification and pairing functionality where the remote control automatically detects available multimedia devices through wireless signals and establishes connections without manual configuration. The system self-configures by scanning for devices, identifying them through device codes or QR codes, and automatically setting up communication parameters, thereby eliminating user confusion about device pairing and control assignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates visual feedback mechanisms such as LED indicators and display screens that show which device is currently selected and receiving control commands. The remote control provides real-time feedback to users about device status, connection state, and control target, making it immediately clear which device is active and what commands will affect, thereby reducing user confusion and frustration.
3Device complexity
If a single remote-control device controls multiple multimedia devices, then physical clutter is reduced, but device identification accuracy must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary device identification and pairing actions before actual control operations. The remote control pre-scans for available multimedia devices, stores their identification codes and communication parameters in memory, and establishes ready-to-use connection profiles. This preliminary setup ensures that when control is needed, the system can quickly and accurately identify the target device without confusion, maintaining high identification accuracy while using a single remote control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent assigns unique local identifiers and communication parameters to each multimedia device within the remote control's memory. Each device has a dedicated identification code, wireless address, and control profile stored locally in the remote control, enabling precise distinction between multiple devices. This local quality approach ensures that even though multiple devices are controlled by one remote, each device maintains its own unique identification characteristics for accurate targeting.
4Extent of automation
If wireless signal strength is used to identify target device, then automatic device selection is achieved, but signal interference may affect accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces device identification codes, QR codes, or visual markers as intermediary elements that mediate between the remote control and multimedia devices. Instead of relying solely on wireless signal strength for identification, the system uses these intermediary identifiers to establish reliable device selection. The remote control reads these identifiers to accurately determine which device should receive commands, even in environments with wireless signal interference or multiple devices at similar distances.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the disclosed technology provide solutions for controlling multiple displays (e.g., multiple display devices, multiple displays on a media device, etc.) using a remote-control device. An example method can include receiving, at a remote-control device, a first wireless signal from a first multimedia device and determining a first signal strength of the first wireless signal. The method includes receiving, at the remote-control device, a second wireless signal from a second multimedia device and determining a second signal strength of the second wireless signal. The method also can include identifying a target multimedia device among the first multimedia device and the second multimedia device based on the first signal strength and the second signal strength and selecting a wireless communication format for communication between the remote-control device and the target multimedia device.