Universal Remote Control Network Programming via Digital Marks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Universal remote control devices are difficult to reconfigure when the controlled equipment changes, requiring complex and time-consuming processes.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for configuring universal remote controls over a multimedia content distribution network, using digital marks such as bar codes or text messages to retrieve programming codes and wirelessly configure the remote control devices, enabling them to operate new equipment by establishing communication links and sending configuration instructions through client-premises equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional manual programming methods are used for universal remote controls, then the remote control can be configured to operate new equipment, but the process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service programming by allowing the universal remote control to automatically retrieve and apply programming codes through the network infrastructure. The CPE automatically communicates with the network server to obtain device-specific codes and configures the remote control without requiring manual user input, thus eliminating the complexity and time associated with traditional manual programming methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The programming codes are pre-stored in the network server's database for various equipment models. When a user wants to configure a new device, the system performs preliminary retrieval of the appropriate codes from the database before actual configuration occurs. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for users to manually search for or input complex programming sequences during the configuration process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If universal remote control devices are designed to control multiple pieces of equipment, then versatility is improved, but reconfiguration difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides universal programming capability through a centralized database that stores programming codes for multiple equipment types and manufacturers. The CPE and network server work together to retrieve appropriate codes based on the target equipment's digital mark, enabling a single universal remote control to be configured for various different devices without requiring device-specific programming hardware or complex user procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The network server and CPE act as intermediaries between the user and the programming process. Instead of directly programming the remote control through complex manual procedures, the user simply provides equipment identification information, and the intermediary system automatically retrieves the appropriate programming codes and applies them, thereby simplifying the reconfiguration process while maintaining versatility.
3Productivity
If automated network-based programming is implemented, then programming time is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical programming operations with automated electronic communication. Instead of users physically inputting codes or following complex manual procedures, the CPE uses network communication protocols to automatically retrieve programming data from the server and electronically transfer it to the universal remote control, dramatically increasing programming speed while the complexity is managed through standardized communication interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for programming a universal remote control (URC) to operate with a new remote controlled device having a digital mark is disclosed. A digital representation of the mark is generated and sent to a multimedia content distribution network (MCDN) server, along with MCDN account information. The digital mark may be used to retrieve programming codes, which are sent to client-premises equipment (CPE) at an MCDN client identified by the MCDN account information. The CPE may be instructed to reprogram the URC to control the new device using the programming codes. The digital mark may be scanned and sent to the server using wireless telephony service provided by the MCDN service provider.