Retrofit Video Interface Control System for Vehicle Multimedia

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing factory-installed in-car multimedia systems are difficult and expensive to modify to add additional video inputs, such as a rear camera feed, due to complex programming requirements.

Innovation Solution

A retrofit interfacing solution comprising a control system and wiring harness that allows 'plug and play' integration of additional video inputs without permanent modification to existing vehicle wiring, utilizing pre-existing video inputs and locked to a unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for security.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If factory-installed in-car multimedia systems are modified to add additional video inputs, then functionality is improved, but modification cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevideo input functionalityVSAvoidprogramming complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary device that interfaces between the aftermarket video source and the factory multimedia system. This intermediary handles the complex programming and communication protocols, allowing simple plug-and-play installation while managing the technical complexity internally through standardized adapters and protocol translators.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The solution segments the modification process into separate components: a control unit that interfaces with the factory system, a wiring harness that connects video sources, and a user interface module. This segmentation allows each component to be independently configured and installed, reducing overall system complexity and enabling incremental functionality addition.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If factory-installed in-car multimedia systems are modified to add additional video inputs, then functionality is improved, but modification cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevideo input functionalityVSAvoidmodification cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs cost-effective intermediary devices and wiring harnesses that can be easily manufactured and replaced. These components use standard connectors and common communication protocols, avoiding the need for expensive custom-engineered solutions while achieving the desired functionality through affordable aftermarket products.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Solution Approach 2:

The solution uses software-based virtual adapters and emulated communication protocols that replicate factory system behavior. This allows aftermarket devices to communicate with the multimedia system without requiring expensive hardware modifications or proprietary programming, reducing costs through software emulation of standard interfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

3Reliability

If permanent modification to existing vehicle wiring is performed, then integration is improved, but installation complexity and risk increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesignal communicationVSAvoidinstallation ease

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent utilizes flexible wiring harnesses with pre-configured connectors that can be easily routed and connected without permanent installation. These flexible cable assemblies allow installation technicians to connect video sources to the multimedia system through accessible connection points, eliminating the need to cut or splice factory wiring while maintaining reliable signal transmission.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

4Adaptability or versatility

If control system modifies vehicle configuration data, then compatibility is improved, but security risks increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem compatibilityVSAvoidsecurity vulnerability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The control system implements feedback mechanisms that verify configuration data modifications against predefined security parameters. Before applying any configuration changes, the system checks for proper authentication, validates the modification request, and logs the change for audit purposes. This feedback loop ensures compatibility improvements while maintaining security through continuous verification and control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS10647272B2Video/multimedia interface solution

Publication Date: 2020.05.12 UNITED RADIO INC

AI summary

A method for retrofitting a vehicle device, the method comprising the steps of: (i) providing an interface device with a wiring harness and a control system; (ii) connecting the wiring harness between a first input of a vehicle component and an input of the vehicle device, wherein the wiring harness is configured to communicate a signal from the first input to the vehicle device input, and further wherein the wiring harness is configured to communicate a signal from the first input to the control system; (iii) detecting, by the control system, one or more data settings of the vehicle device; and (iv) modifying, by the control system, the one or more data settings of the vehicle device such that the vehicle device can process the signal from the first input.