Remote Video Device Controller via IP Network Intermediary
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for controlling and monitoring remote video devices, such as set-top boxes, require physical presence and manual input, making it labor-intensive and inefficient to manage multiple devices over distance, especially for testing and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A computer method and remote video device controller that enables remote access and control of video devices through IP-based networks, allowing administrators to send local inputs, receive video data, and compare images to predetermined patterns for automated recovery actions, eliminating the need for direct physical connections and line-of-sight operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical presence at the video device is required for operation and monitoring, then direct control is achieved, but labor intensity increases and management efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a control server as an intermediary between the user and remote video devices. The control server receives control commands from users, translates them into appropriate device-specific commands, and sends them to the target video devices. This intermediary enables remote operation without requiring physical presence at the device location, resolving the contradiction between ease of remote operation and management efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system captures video output from remote video devices and transmits it back to users' display devices. This creates a visual copy of the remote device's display, allowing users to monitor and verify device operation remotely. The copying mechanism enables effective remote management without physical presence, improving both ease of operation and productivity.
2Reliability
If manual monitoring and control of each video device is performed, then device operation is verified, but time consumption increases for multiple devices
Solution Approach 1:
The control server is designed to handle multiple video devices simultaneously through a universal interface. A single control command can be broadcast to multiple devices, and the server manages connections to numerous devices through one centralized system. This multi-functionality allows verification of multiple devices' operation without the time consumption of individual manual monitoring, while maintaining reliable operation verification through the same control and feedback mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If direct physical connection and line-of-sight operation are required, then control accuracy is maintained, but remote access capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical line-of-sight control system with an electronic communication system based on IP networks. Instead of requiring direct physical connection and visual line-of-sight between user and device, the system uses network protocols to transmit control commands and video data. This substitution enables remote access capability while maintaining operational control through digital communication channels.
Data Source
AI summary
A control server receives a local input to control a remote video device and sends an indication of the local input to the remote video device to control, access, or operate the remote video device. Video data indicative of images provided by the remote video device in response to the local input are relayed to the control server by the remote video device or associated components. A plurality of remote video devices can be simultaneously controlled, accessed, or operated. Control code sets for remote video devices are mapped to a local interface control set. Local input is translated to a remote video device command based on such mappings.