Universal Remote Control for Simultaneous Multi-Device Media Functions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing universal remote control devices are ineffective in simultaneously controlling media display functions across multiple entertainment centers, such as turning on or changing channels on multiple televisions in separate rooms.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that includes processing logic and memory to receive input for media display functions, determine the media devices to be controlled, and send control data to implement these functions concurrently across multiple media devices, using a remote control device that can transmit control data wirelessly and via a network to media devices like set-top boxes and display devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a universal remote control device is used to control multiple media devices of different device types at a single entertainment center, then the ease of operation is improved, but the ability to control media display functions at multiple entertainment centers simultaneously is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can control media devices at a single entertainment center using traditional infrared/RF signaling, and simultaneously control media devices at multiple entertainment centers using network-based control. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by making the device universally applicable to both single-device and multi-device control scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
A network connection (such as Wi-Fi or Ethernet) serves as an intermediary between the remote control device and media devices at multiple entertainment centers. This intermediary enables the remote control to extend its control capability beyond physical proximity, allowing simultaneous control of devices across different locations while maintaining ease of operation through a unified interface.
2Productivity
If control signals are sent to multiple media devices simultaneously, then the productivity is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple control operations into a single command. When a user presses a button on the remote control, the system can simultaneously send control signals to multiple media devices across different entertainment centers through network communication. This combining of operations improves productivity by allowing concurrent control of multiple devices while managing complexity through centralized processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system transitions from one-dimensional control (single device, direct signal) to multi-dimensional control (multiple devices, network-based). By adding the network communication dimension, the system can address multiple devices simultaneously without proportionally increasing the complexity at the user interface level, as the complexity is managed in the background through network protocols.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method to control media display functions is disclosed. A system includes a processing logic and memory accessible to the processing logic. The memory includes instructions executable by the processing logic to perform a method including receiving input associated with a media display function. The instructions are also executable by the processing logic to determine one or more media devices to be controlled. The instructions are also executable by the processing logic to send first control data adapted to cause the media display function to be implemented at a first media device when the first media device is to be controlled. The instructions are also executable by the processing logic to send second control data when the first media device and a second media device are to be controlled concurrently. The second control data is adapted to cause the media display function to be implemented at the first media device and at the second media device.