Universal Control System Automated Programming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Programming a universal remote control for complex home entertainment systems is time-consuming and requires specific knowledge of device configurations, making it frustrating for users to set up activities correctly.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method generates programming for a universal control system by creating a list of devices based on configuration and statistical data, allowing for automated or semi-automated programming with minimal user input, using an activity server that connects to client devices via a network to implement device configurations for specific activities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual programming of programming sequences is performed, then control functionality is achieved, but programming time and user effort increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically detecting devices on the network, gathering their configuration information, and pre-generating programming sequences before the user needs them. The activity server proactively creates device profiles and programming options based on detected device configurations, so when users want to control devices, the programming work has already been done in the background.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal remote system performs self-service by automatically detecting the presence and configuration of electronic devices on the network, generating appropriate programming sequences without requiring manual user input. The system uses activity servers to autonomously create device profiles, identify device capabilities, and formulate control commands based on observed device responses and network information.
2Loss of time
If automated programming is implemented, then programming time is reduced, but accuracy of device configuration may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the activity server sends test commands to detected devices and observes their responses to verify correct identification and configuration. The system continuously monitors device responses, compares expected versus actual behavior, and adjusts programming sequences accordingly. User feedback loops allow verification and correction of automatically generated programming to ensure accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The programming generation process is dynamic and adaptive, adjusting to actual device responses in real-time. The system begins with automated detection and generates initial programming sequences, then refines these sequences based on observed device behavior and user feedback. The configuration accuracy improves over time as the system learns from interactions with specific devices and users.
3Manufacturing precision
If detailed device configuration information is required from users, then programming accuracy improves, but user interface complexity and difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts configuration information directly from the devices themselves rather than requiring users to manually input it. The activity server automatically queries devices for their capabilities, connections, and settings, pulling this information directly from the device responses and network configuration data, thereby eliminating the need for users to provide detailed technical specifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The activity server acts as an intermediary between the universal remote and the electronic devices, handling all complex configuration information exchange. Instead of users directly interacting with device configuration details, the activity server mediates by automatically gathering, processing, and translating device information into usable programming sequences, shielding users from technical complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method for programming a universal control system includes generating a list of devices associated with a network; based on configuration data and statistical data associated with a first set of devices included in the list of devices, generating programming for a first activity to be performed via the network, wherein first activity is associated with the first set of devices included in the list of devices, and the programming is associated with a device configuration for the first set of devices and includes commands for transmission to the first set of devices by the universal control system; and causing the programming for the first activity to be stored, wherein, when the first activity is selected, the device configuration for the first set of devices is implemented.