Unified Control Panel for Multi-Protocol Home Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing home control systems struggle to manage multiple devices, such as set-top boxes and home alarms, using a single interface, especially when these devices employ different communication protocols like IP and DOCSIS, making it difficult to control and interact with them seamlessly.
Innovation Solution
A control panel system that allows users to control multiple devices, including set-top boxes with or without IP capabilities, using a single interface by communicating through a network gateway for non-IP capable devices, enabling features like scheduled recording management, device activation/deactivation, and unified device control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single control interface is used to manage multiple devices with different communication protocols, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases due to protocol compatibility requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a control panel as an intermediary device that mediates between the user and multiple home devices with different communication protocols. The control panel includes a processor that receives user inputs and automatically determines the appropriate communication protocol (IP or DOCSIS) to use for each target device, thereby simplifying user operation while managing protocol complexity internally.
Solution Approach 2:
The control panel is designed as a universal control interface capable of managing multiple types of home devices (set-top boxes, DVRs, alarm systems) through a single user interface. It supports both IP-based and DOCSIS-based communication protocols, allowing one device to perform multiple control functions across different device types without requiring separate control mechanisms for each protocol.
2Adaptability or versatility
If protocol conversion and compatibility layers are added to support both IP and DOCSIS devices, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control panel serves as a mediator that handles protocol conversion and compatibility internally. It includes a processor capable of communicating with both IP-based devices (through network interfaces) and DOCSIS-based devices (through cable modems), automatically selecting and using the appropriate protocol for each device without requiring the user to understand or configure protocol details.
Solution Approach 2:
The control panel automatically determines which communication protocol to use for each target device without user intervention. The processor autonomously manages protocol selection, conversion, and compatibility handling, making the system self-sufficient in managing multi-protocol environments while presenting a simplified interface to users.
3Device complexity
If multiple separate control interfaces are used for different devices, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation worsens due to multiple controls
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges control functions for multiple home devices into a single control panel interface. Instead of requiring separate remote controls or interfaces for set-top boxes, DVRs, and alarm systems, the control panel consolidates all control capabilities into one device with a unified user interface, making operation easier while the internal processor handles the complexity of communicating with each device type.
Solution Approach 2:
The control panel is designed as a universal remote control system that can operate multiple different types of home devices through a single interface. It provides multi-functional control capabilities including video recording management, alarm system control, and device activation/deactivation, all accessible through one unified control mechanism rather than multiple separate controls.
4Use of energy by moving object
If automated control features are implemented for energy savings, then energy efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control panel implements automated energy-saving features that operate autonomously without requiring user configuration or intervention. The processor automatically monitors device states, determines when devices should be activated or deactivated based on user presence and usage patterns, and executes control commands to optimize energy consumption. This self-service approach improves energy efficiency while keeping the user interface simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automated feedback mechanisms where the control panel receives information about device states and user behavior, processes this information through its processor, and automatically adjusts device activation and deactivation accordingly. This feedback-driven automation enables energy savings through intelligent control decisions while managing the complexity internally within the control panel's processing capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for controlling a home alarm and supporting various control functions including STB recording functions are described. In some embodiments, e.g., where the STB is a DOCSIS capable device, communications between the control panel and STB is through a gateway and/or server which allow the IP based control panel to interact with the STB via a communications network and other devices located external to the customer premise where the control panel is located. In embodiments where the STB supports IP capability, communication between the control panel and STB is via a home network. In some embodiments upon selecting an alarm activation option a user is provided an opportunity to select at least one of: recordings, which are scheduled for deletion, to be preserved, or suggestions for programs for recording. Upon alarm deactivation, a list of new recordings made in user's absence and a missed call log is presented.