Universal Remote Control Automatic Setup via Appliance Data Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual process of setting up and configuring universal remote controls is often demanding and frustrating for users, as it requires manual entry of appliance codes and identification, which can be complex and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for automatically setting up and configuring universal remote controls using appliance-activated setup (DAS) protocols, where appliances transmit device code data to the remote control upon power-on, allowing the remote control to automatically learn and configure commands for various types and manufacturers of appliances, including the use of RFID tags for data retrieval and two-way communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual code entry and identification methods are used for setting up universal remote controls, then the remote control can be configured to command appliances, but the setup process becomes demanding and time-consuming for users
Solution Approach 1:
The appliance automatically transmits its device code data to the universal remote control upon power-on, enabling the remote control to self-configure without requiring manual code entry by the user. This self-service mechanism eliminates the time-consuming manual setup process while maintaining proper appliance configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The appliance is pre-programmed with device code data that is automatically transmitted during the power-on sequence. This preliminary preparation of the code data eliminates the need for users to manually search and enter codes during setup, significantly reducing setup time and effort.
2Extent of automation
If appliance-activated setup protocols are used, then automatic configuration is achieved, but the system requires two-way communication capabilities between appliances and remote controls
Solution Approach 1:
The universal remote control incorporates a standardized two-way communication interface that can interact with multiple types of appliances from different manufacturers. This universal communication capability enables automatic setup across diverse device types without requiring manufacturer-specific custom protocols, managing complexity through standardization.
3Ease of operation
If RFID tags are used for data retrieval during setup, then device code data can be automatically obtained, but the system requires additional hardware components
Solution Approach 1:
An RFID tag attached to the appliance serves as an intermediary carrier of device code data. The universal remote control reads this data wirelessly through the RFID interface, eliminating the need for manual code entry. The RFID tag acts as a simple, passive intermediary that stores and transmits necessary configuration data without adding significant complexity to either the appliance or remote control.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for using an RFID tag to automatically setup and configure a universal remote control to command appliances of various types and various manufacturers.