Universal Remote Control via Proxy Service for Cross-Brand Device Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote control systems for program receiving devices, such as set-top boxes and smart TVs, are limited by manufacturer constraints and require direct configuration, making it difficult for users to control devices seamlessly across different brands and types without proprietary software.
Innovation Solution
A program delivery system that includes a mobile device, a program network interface device, and a program receiving device, allowing remote control through a proxy service or direct communication, enabling users to control devices via a mobile app without manufacturer limitations, using protocols like TCP and JSON notification messages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manufacturer-specific remote control configuration is used, then device compatibility is limited, but device complexity and proprietary software requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a universal remote control device that acts as an intermediary between the user and multiple program receiving devices. This mediator device communicates with different devices (set-top boxes, televisions, DVD players) using standardized protocols, eliminating the need for manufacturer-specific proprietary software while maintaining compatibility across various device types and brands.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote control device is designed with universal functionality to control multiple types of program receiving devices through a single unified interface. It supports various device types (televisions, set-top boxes, audio systems) and brands without requiring separate configuration for each, thereby reducing device complexity while enhancing adaptability.
2Ease of operation
If direct configuration between remote control and device is required, then setup simplicity is maintained, but ease of operation across different brands is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The universal remote control device serves as an intermediary that handles all configuration and communication protocols automatically. Users simply point and press buttons without needing to perform direct configuration between the remote and each device, while the mediator manages the complexity of brand-specific protocols in the background.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote control device automatically detects and configures itself when paired with different program receiving devices. It self-configures the communication parameters and protocols without requiring manual user intervention for configuration, thereby maintaining ease of operation while reducing the apparent complexity to the user.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manufacturer constraints are imposed on remote control functionality, then device-specific optimization is achieved, but versatility and user flexibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control device implements universal functionality that allows it to control multiple types of program receiving devices through a single unified interface. It supports various device types (televisions, set-top boxes, audio systems) and brands without requiring separate configuration for each, thereby reducing device complexity while enhancing adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote control device dynamically adapts its communication protocols and control parameters based on the detected device type and brand. This dynamic configuration allows the same physical device to optimize its operation for different manufacturers while maintaining user flexibility and versatility across all supported devices.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, devices, and storage mediums provide for selecting a remote control mode of operation for a mobile device to allow the mobile device to remotely control a program receiving device. Additionally, methods, devices, and storage mediums provide for a proxy service to allow the mobile device to remotely control a program receiving device, an over-the-top service to allow the mobile device to remotely control a program receiving device, and a direct link service to allow the mobile device to remotely control a program receiving device. Methods, devices, and storage mediums also provide for a notification protocol.