Stand-by Mode Selection for Video Signal Receivers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern apparatuses like digital set-top boxes and personal computers face challenges in managing two different stand-by modes when off, balancing fast start-up times with power consumption, as existing methods either consume unnecessary power or require long wait times for start-up.
Innovation Solution
A method allowing users to select from three options for each time period of the day, choosing between a power-consuming stand-by mode for fast start-up, a power-efficient mode, or a statistical mode based on past viewing habits, using a processor and memory to store user selections and control the apparatus via an on-screen interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the apparatus stays in the stand-by mode that provides faster start-up time, then the start-up time is reduced, but power consumption increases unnecessarily
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between two stand-by modes (first stand-by mode with faster start-up but higher power consumption, and second stand-by mode with slower start-up but lower power consumption) based on real-time conditions. The microprocessor controls the switching automatically or via user input, making the system adaptable rather than static. This resolves the contradiction by allowing the apparatus to optimize between speed and energy efficiency depending on the situation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the microprocessor monitors various conditions (user input, current operational state, time of day) and adjusts the stand-by mode accordingly. User preferences can be stored and recalled, and the system can learn from usage patterns to automatically select appropriate modes. This feedback loop enables the system to balance start-up time and power consumption based on actual usage scenarios rather than fixed settings.
2Loss of energy
If the apparatus switches to the more energy-efficient stand-by mode after a certain time period, then power is conserved, but users may have to wait a relatively long time for start-up
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts between stand-by modes based on temporal factors and usage patterns. Rather than a simple timer-based switch, the microprocessor evaluates multiple conditions including time of day, user preferences, and historical usage data to determine the optimal mode. This allows the system to maintain energy efficiency while being ready to switch to fast start-up mode when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system can preliminarily switch to the faster stand-by mode in anticipation of upcoming usage needs. By analyzing user patterns and scheduling, the apparatus can proactively transition to the appropriate stand-by mode before a usage event occurs, ensuring both energy efficiency during idle periods and fast response when the user actually needs the device.
3Loss of energy
If the apparatus uses a timer to switch between stand-by modes, then power consumption is reduced, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically managing stand-by mode selection based on pre-configured user preferences and stored usage patterns. The microprocessor autonomously evaluates conditions and makes decisions without requiring complex external control systems or continuous user intervention. This keeps the control logic manageable while achieving energy efficiency through intelligent automation rather than simple timing mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for operating an apparatus, such as a video signal receiver, having first and second stand-by modes when the apparatus is in an off state, wherein the first stand-by mode provides a different start-up time and consumes a different amount of power than the second stand-by mode, is capable of saving power without requiring a user to wait a long time for a start-up sequence. According to an exemplary embodiment, the method includes enabling display of a user interface allowing user selections for a plurality of different time periods of a day; and enabling a user to select, via the user interface, one of at least three different options for each one of the different time periods, wherein a first one of the options includes setting the apparatus to the first stand-by mode for the time period, a second one of the options includes setting the apparatus to the second stand-by mode for the time period, and a third one of the options includes setting the apparatus to a statistical mode for the time period, wherein the statistical mode includes setting the apparatus to one of the first and second stand-by modes for the time period based on a user's past viewing habits during the time period.