Unified Interface for Multiple Signal Sources
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Solution Overview
Problem
The operation of multiple signal sources in an entertainment electronics environment is cumbersome due to each device having its own operating philosophy and look and feel, leading to discomfort for users.
Innovation Solution
A device and method that utilize a memory unit for storing configuration data, a functional feature determination unit to combine individual functional features, and a processing unit to generate a unified functional feature, allowing for standardized operation and control of multiple signal sources through a unified interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If each device operates with its own independent interface and operating philosophy, then device functionality is maintained, but user comfort deteriorates due to the need to learn and operate multiple different interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a control device as an intermediary between the user and multiple signal sources. This control device provides a unified remote control interface that mediates access to various devices (satellite receiver, cable receiver, terrestrial receiver, video recorder) without requiring users to learn each device's individual operating philosophy. The intermediary translates user commands into device-specific operations while maintaining a consistent user experience.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device is designed with universal functionality to control multiple types of signal sources through a single unified interface. It can identify and control different devices (satellite receiver, cable receiver, terrestrial receiver, video recorder) using standardized commands, eliminating the need for separate remote controls or interface knowledge for each device type.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple signal sources are integrated into a unified system, then user comfort improves through standardized operation, but system complexity increases due to the need for device identification and coordination
Solution Approach 1:
The control device employs feedback mechanisms to identify and track the current operational state of each signal source. When a user presses a device button, the control device receives feedback from the targeted device to confirm identification and current state, then provides appropriate feedback to the user. This feedback loop enables automatic device identification and coordination without requiring complex manual configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service operation where devices automatically identify themselves and their capabilities to the control device. The control device autonomously manages device identification, command routing, and coordination without requiring user intervention for system configuration or complex coordination tasks.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an apparatus and a method for standardized use of a multiplicity of useful signal sources (G1 to Gx), where configuration data (K1 to Kx) are first of all stored for the multiplicity of useful signal sources and then individual function features (F(G1) to F(Gx)) of the useful signal sources (G1 to Gx) are ascertained on the basis of the configuration data. A function feature conditioning unit (3) then produces a standardized function feature (F(G*)) for all of the useful signal sources (G1 to Gx). This allows a significant improvement in user convenience.