Trainable Transceiver Single Channel Multi-Function Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing transceivers require multiple physical buttons to control different functions of remote electronic devices, limiting the number of functions that can be controlled and occupying additional buttons or channels.

Innovation Solution

A trainable transceiver with a single channel that uses a training module and comparator module to determine message similarity between control signals, allowing multiple functions to be controlled using a single button by training the channel to actuate both similar functions based on frequency, pulse count, or symbol sequence.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple physical buttons are used to control different functions, then each function can be controlled independently, but the number of available buttons for other functions is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of controllable functionsVSAvoidnumber of physical buttons
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling a single physical button to control multiple functions through software-based function assignment. The transceiver can be programmed to associate different functions with the same button, allowing one button to perform multiple roles depending on the assigned functions, thereby reducing the total number of physical buttons needed while maintaining control over multiple functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges multiple function control capabilities into a single physical button by combining multiple control signals or command sequences into one button press event. The system integrates multiple functions that would traditionally require separate buttons into a unified control mechanism, where a single button can trigger different functions based on programming or context.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Ease of operation

If separate buttons are assigned to each function, then control precision is maintained, but the transceiver requires more buttons or channels

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol precisionVSAvoidnumber of buttons or channels
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies multi-functionality by designing a single button capable of executing multiple precise control functions. Through programming, the button can be assigned to different functions with specific control precision requirements, maintaining accurate control while reducing the physical button count.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a software intermediary layer between the physical button and the control functions. This intermediary processes the button press and determines which specific function to execute, maintaining control precision through programmed logic while allowing one button to manage multiple functions that would otherwise require separate physical controls.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If multiple channels are used to control different functions, then function control is simplified, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunction control simplicityVSAvoidnumber of channels
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple channel functions into a single communication channel by consolidating the control paths. Instead of requiring separate channels for different functions, the system combines them into one channel that can carry multiple control signals or command types, simplifying the hardware while maintaining ease of function control through software management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent makes the single communication channel universal by enabling it to handle multiple function control tasks. The channel is programmed to recognize and execute different control commands for various functions, allowing one channel to perform the work of multiple specialized channels while keeping the system easier to operate through unified communication.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3555873B1Trainable transceiver for training and controlling multiple functions with a single channel
Publication Date: 2020.11.11 GENTEX CORP
  • EP3555873B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3555873B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3555873B1 patent drawingFigure 3A

AI summary

The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods training and controlling multiple functions of a remote device with a single transceiver channel. A trainable transceiver may detect a button, press an a command button corresponding to a channel. The trainable transceiver may identify the channel as trained to control a first function of the remote device. The trainable transceiver may determine that a second function of the remote device satisfies a. message similarity condition with the first function. The trainable transceiver may train the channel to control both the first function and the second function, responsive to determining that the second function satisfies the message similarity condition with, the first function. The trainable transceiver may configure the command button to transmit control signals to alternately actuate the first function and the second function of the remote device responsive to successive button presses.