Universal Controlling Device Rapid Configuration via Pre-Selected Command Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing universal controlling devices require tedious and error-prone initial teaching processes for configuration, and users often need to consult reference manuals or look up setup codes to configure the devices for specific appliances.
Innovation Solution
A universal controlling device with pre-selected command data sets and abbreviated keystroke sequences allows for rapid configuration by activating specific buttons, which correspond to preset numeric setup codes, enabling quick setup for a subset of target appliances based on intended use, geographic region, or equipment type.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users manually key in setup codes from reference manuals to configure universal controlling devices, then the device can be configured for specific appliances, but the process becomes tedious and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the controlling device with a library of command data sets corresponding to multiple appliances before the user needs to use it. The device automatically retrieves and applies the appropriate command data set based on appliance identification, eliminating the need for users to manually key in setup codes from reference manuals. This significantly reduces setup time and eliminates manual configuration errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The controlling device performs self-service configuration by automatically identifying the target appliance and selecting the appropriate command data set from its internal library without requiring user intervention to manually input setup codes. The system autonomously completes the configuration process, making it both easier to operate and faster than manual methods.
2Productivity
If universal controlling devices include preprogrammed libraries of command data, then configuration becomes faster, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controlling device achieves universality by incorporating a comprehensive library of command data sets that can control multiple different types of appliances. A single device can be configured to control various appliances (televisions, stereos, VCRs, etc.) by automatically selecting from the preprogrammed library, eliminating the need for multiple separate remote controls while maintaining manageable complexity through automated selection mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If early universal controlling devices used learning processes to capture original equipment commands, then adaptability is achieved, but the initial teaching process becomes tedious and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring users to perform the learning process during initial setup, the patent applies preliminary action by pre-programming the device with comprehensive command data libraries before delivery. The device automatically performs the adaptation function by retrieving appropriate command data sets from its internal library based on appliance identification, eliminating the tedious and error-prone manual teaching process while maintaining full adaptability to various appliances.
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 controlling device to utilize one of a group of pre-selected command data sets.