Tactile Remote Control with Redundant Wireless Link
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of programmable multimedia systems prefer tactile feedback for selecting functions on devices like TVs and DVDs, and there is a need for a system that allows portable control devices to interface with programmable multimedia controllers using both wireless and redundant communication paths.
Innovation Solution
A specialized remote control device with tactile buttons and a redundant wireless connection to a portable control device, which is mechanically and electrically coupled to the portable control device, allowing for gesture control and load sharing in data transmission, and using the ROSIE software for compatibility with programmable multimedia controllers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a planar touch screen is used for control, then the device is programmable and can interface with the system, but the user cannot make selections with tactile feedback without looking away from the screen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a planar touch screen with a tactile remote control unit into a single integrated device. The tactile remote control unit includes raised buttons that provide tactile feedback, while the touch screen provides programmable control capability. This merging allows the device to offer both tactile feedback for selection and programmable control functionality simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device is segmented into two distinct functional sections: a tactile remote control unit with raised buttons for tactile feedback, and a planar touch screen for programmable control. This segmentation allows each section to optimize its specific function while working together as a unified control system.
2Device complexity
If a single wireless communication path is used between the portable control device and the programmable multimedia controller, then the system is simpler, but the reliability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a redundant wireless communication path as a preventive measure against communication failures. The second wireless communication path stands by as a backup, ready to take over if the primary path fails, thus cushioning against potential communication disruptions and enhancing system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the communication parameter from a single wireless path to multiple wireless paths. By introducing an additional wireless communication path with different spatial or frequency parameters, the system increases reliability while managing complexity through intelligent path selection and management.
Data Source
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AI summary
A remote control for use in conjunction with a portable electronic device is provided. The remote control is configured in such a manner that it is adapted to couple to it, a portable control device both mechanically and electrically. The portable control device is configured to receive signals from the remote control based upon button presses by the user. The remote control is configured with a set of surface enhanced buttons that provide a user with tactile feedback, allowing the user to experience a touch sensation when pressing the buttons. The remote control device and the portable communication device are wirelessly coupled in a bi-directional manner to a programmable multimedia controller. The programmable multimedia controller is interfaced with many components thus providing audio, video, telephony, data, security, motor-driven and relay driven parts. The remote control and portable communication device allow a user to make selections regarding components that are interfaced with the PMC. A second redundant dedicated wireless receiver provides a secondary interface between the component and the portable communication device.