Universal Controller Rapid Configuration via Pre-programmed Command Libraries
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing universal controlling devices require tedious and error-prone initial configuration processes, necessitating a more convenient and user-friendly method for configuring these devices to communicate with various appliances.
Innovation Solution
A universal controlling device equipped with pre-selected command data sets and abbreviated keystroke sequences, allowing rapid configuration via activation of specific buttons, which can be preset based on intended use, geographic region, or appliance type, facilitating quick setup for a wide range of appliances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If preprogrammed libraries of command data are used, then the device can control multiple appliances, but the configuration process becomes tedious and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-programming libraries of command data for multiple appliances into the controlling device before use. The device comes pre-configured with command sets for various appliance types, eliminating the need for users to manually program commands during initial setup. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining versatility through pre-loaded appliance-specific command libraries while simplifying the configuration process to merely selecting the appropriate appliance type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism in the form of a configuration interface that mediates between the user and the complex command data library. This intermediary presents users with simplified appliance type selections rather than requiring direct interaction with detailed command parameters, thereby maintaining the device's ability to control multiple appliances while making the configuration process user-friendly and error-free.
2Adaptability or versatility
If users manually key in setup codes, then the device can be configured for specific appliances, but the process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-organizing command data into appliance-type categorized libraries within the device. Instead of requiring users to manually search and input setup codes, the device presents pre-sorted categories of appliances, allowing users to instantly access the correct command set by simply selecting the appliance type, thereby reducing setup time while maintaining configuration versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the comprehensive command data library into distinct categories organized by appliance type. This segmentation allows the device to present only the relevant subset of command data corresponding to the selected appliance category, eliminating the need for users to manually search through all possible codes and significantly reducing the time required for configuration while preserving the ability to control diverse appliance types.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a comprehensive library of command data is stored, then the device can control more appliance types, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by organizing the comprehensive command data library into discrete, appliance-type-specific modules or categories. This modular segmentation allows the device to manage a large volume of command data for multiple appliance types without creating a monolithic complex structure. The segmented architecture enables efficient storage and retrieval of relevant command sets while maintaining manageable internal organization, thus supporting versatility without proportionally increasing perceived device complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A universal controlling device is provided with one or more buttons which, when activated in a set up mode, serves to initiate a rapid configuration of the universal controlling device to adapt the universal controlling device to communicate with an intended target appliance.