Set Top Box Audio Decoder Standby Mode Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional set top boxes (STBs) cannot utilize their standby mode effectively, as they deactivate audio and video decoders, limiting their functionality and user experience, and there is a need to transform them into smart assistant devices without requiring additional hardware from third-party vendors.
Innovation Solution
The STB is configured to detect standby mode and selectively toggle or maintain the audio decoder in an ON state, allowing it to function as a smart audio streaming device, receiving inputs for playback and performing assistant functions, such as audio content retrieval and playback, without external hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the STB enters standby mode to save power by turning off audio and video decoders, then energy consumption is reduced, but the device loses all functionality and cannot decode audio or video content
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the STB's operational modes into distinct states: full functionality mode, audio-only standby mode, and deep standby mode. By selectively activating only the audio decoder during audio-only standby mode while keeping the video decoder off, the system divides the functionality into separable components that can be independently controlled based on power savings needs versus functionality requirements.
2Loss of energy
If the STB turns off both audio and video decoders in standby mode, then power consumption is minimized, but the device cannot serve as a multi-purpose assistant device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic operational modes where the STB can transition between different states of functionality. The audio decoder can be selectively activated during standby mode based on user needs, allowing the device to dynamically adjust its operational state between power-saving mode and assistant device mode, providing adaptability without requiring full power consumption.
3Ease of operation
If the STB maintains full functionality during standby mode, then user experience is enhanced with assistant functions, but power consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing enhanced user experience features selectively rather than universally. During audio-only standby mode, the STB provides assistant functions and audio playback capabilities when needed, while maintaining the option to enter deeper standby mode for maximum power savings. This localized enhancement of functionality appears only in specific operational contexts rather than continuously.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the STB activates the audio decoder during standby mode, then audio streaming and assistant functions are enabled, but power consumption increases compared to deep standby
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the STB universal by enabling it to perform multiple functions across different operational modes. The audio decoder's selective activation during standby mode allows the device to serve both as a power-efficient standby unit and as an audio streaming/assistant device, consolidating the need for separate dedicated devices and providing multi-functionality within a single system.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure describes techniques for effectively utilizing a standby mode of a set top box (STB). The techniques according to the present disclosure comprise detecting a standby mode of the STB and in response to detecting the standby mode of the STB, selectively toggling an audio decoder of the STB to an ON state or selectively maintaining an ON state of the audio decoder. Accordingly, the techniques according to the present disclosure enable audio only playback from the STB in the standby mode.