Television Input Switching Control for Connected Device Settings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current television systems lack the ability to automatically adjust settings of connected devices, such as amplifiers, when switching between different input sources, leading to suboptimal audio experiences due to independent operation of devices.
Innovation Solution
A system that signals connected devices to change their operating parameters based on specific events, such as input changes, by using an interface between the television and external devices to store and transmit settings associated with each event, enabling seamless adjustments like volume or audio mode changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If connected devices operate independently without communication, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to automatically adjust settings when switching inputs is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary communication mechanism through existing interfaces (HDMI CEC, IR blaster, RF transmitter) that enables the television to signal connected devices about input changes. This mediator allows settings synchronization without requiring direct complex inter-device communication protocols, thus improving adaptability while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by having the television detect input changes and automatically transmit control signals to connected devices to adjust their settings accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables automatic adaptation to different input sources without user intervention, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.
2Ease of operation
If a two-way data path is created between television and connected devices, then control capability is improved, but the complexity of the interface and protocol increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages existing multi-functional interfaces (HDMI with CEC capability, IR blasters, RF transmitters) that are already present in modern televisions for other purposes. By repurposing these universal interfaces for input change notification, the system gains enhanced control capability without adding dedicated new interfaces, thus avoiding increased interface complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The television uses its own existing communication capabilities (CEC, IR, RF) to serve the additional function of controlling connected devices. This self-service approach allows the television to provide control signals without requiring external controllers or additional complex interface hardware, improving ease of operation while maintaining interface simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
A television includes at least two inputs and at least one connected device (component). Upon a system event such as changing from one input to another input, the television signals the at least one connected device to change at least one operating parameter of the device.