Universal Remote Control Setup via Networked Appliance Intermediary
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of setting up and configuring a universal remote control is often complex and frustrating for users, as it requires manual entry of appliance codes from user manuals, which can be lost or outdated, leading to a need for a simplified and user-friendly system.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a networked appliance, such as a cable or satellite set-top box, or an Internet-enabled TV, to facilitate the setup of a universal remote control through interactive instructions and downloadable programming, allowing users to easily configure the remote control to command various appliances by selecting device types and brand codes, with visual feedback and automatic code testing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users manually enter appliance codes from user manuals, then the universal remote control can be configured to command appliances, but the setup process becomes complex and frustrating for users
Solution Approach 1:
A networked appliance acts as an intermediary between the universal remote control and the target appliance. The networked appliance receives the remote control's commands, executes them on the target appliance, and provides feedback to the remote control, thereby simplifying the setup process and reducing user burden.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements automatic code testing with feedback mechanisms. The remote control transmits test codes to the target appliance through the networked intermediary, receives feedback on whether the code was successful, and automatically selects alternative codes if needed, eliminating the need for manual code entry and testing by users.
2Reliability
If users manually enter appliance codes from user manuals, then the universal remote control can be configured to command appliances, but user manuals may be lost or outdated
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-programs a comprehensive database of appliance codes into the universal remote control before use. This preliminary preparation ensures that accurate, up-to-date codes are already available in the remote control, eliminating the need for users to refer to physical user manuals that may be lost or outdated.
Solution Approach 2:
The automatic code testing mechanism provides real-time feedback on code effectiveness. If a pre-programmed code does not work, the system receives feedback and automatically tries alternative codes from its database, ensuring reliable configuration without requiring users to verify code accuracy against physical manuals.
3Extent of automation
If preprogrammed codes are used, then setup can be automated, but the user must manually identify and select appliance codes from tabulations
Solution Approach 1:
The universal remote control performs self-service during the setup process. It automatically transmits test codes to the target appliance, evaluates the results, and selects appropriate codes without requiring user intervention. The system serves itself by autonomously completing the entire code selection and verification process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback loops during automatic code testing. The remote control monitors the target appliance's response to each test code and uses this feedback to determine whether to accept the code or try the next alternative, completely automating the code selection process without requiring users to manually search tabulations or make selections.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for enabling set up of a controlling device capable of controlling a plurality of appliances provides an interactive instruction set and associated programming which is downloadable to a controllable appliance having an associated display, such as an Internet enabled television. The programming is accessible by the controllable appliance and is configured to appropriately display interactive instructions from the interactive instruction set to a user during a user initiated set up procedure for setting up the controlling device to communicate commands to another controllable device (e.g., a DVD, VCR, DVR, etc).