Universal Stage Control Console With Mimicked Local Interfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing theatrical control systems face inefficiencies and economic challenges in managing multiple discrete theatrical objects due to the need for individual control interfaces and lack of integration with centralized automation, leading to incomplete control capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A universal control console that integrates with multiple theatrical objects through a remote control system, including actuators, indicators, and displays, mimicking local interfaces, and enables centralized control via a distributed control network architecture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If individual control interfaces are provided for each theatrical object, then control capability for each object is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal control interface that can control multiple different theatrical objects (lights, sound equipment, machinery) through a single console. The interface uses standardized communication protocols and configurable control elements that can be adapted to various object types, eliminating the need for separate dedicated control interfaces for each object while maintaining full control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a control bridge or intermediary device that connects the universal control interface to theatrical objects with proprietary or non-standard control protocols. This intermediary translates universal control commands into object-specific commands, enabling centralized control without requiring each object to have its own dedicated interface while maintaining compatibility with diverse object types.
2Ease of operation
If centralized control is implemented, then operational consistency is improved, but integration complexity with existing automated systems increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control system into modular components: a universal control interface, configurable control elements, communication interfaces, and optional control bridges. Each module can be independently configured and integrated, allowing gradual implementation and easier integration with existing automated systems without requiring complete system replacement or complex monolithic integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs configurable control elements whose parameters (control type, protocol, mapping) can be adjusted to match different theatrical objects and existing automated systems. This configurability allows the same universal interface to integrate with various systems by changing software parameters rather than requiring hardware modifications, reducing integration complexity.
3Reliability
If full-node capability is provided at every control interface, then control autonomy is achieved, but system cost and processing load increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control intelligence into a centralized universal control interface rather than distributing full processing capability to every control point. The universal interface consolidates the processing load for managing multiple theatrical objects, reducing the need for expensive full-node capabilities at each interface while maintaining system reliability through centralized coordination and optional local control bridges.
Data Source
AI summary
A universal remote control console for managing operation of a plurality of theatrical objects that includes a plurality of remote user interfaces configured to mimic local user interfaces at the plurality of theatrical objects. The remove control console includes a remote controller with a remote interface communicatively coupled with interfaces for local controllers at the respective theatrical objects. By mimicking controls on the remote control console, theatrical object users are presented with familiar interfaces at the remote console location.