Voice-Controlled Multimedia Device for TV-AVR Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing voice-controlled multimedia devices struggle to reliably control multiple electronic devices in a home environment without physical manipulation, especially in complex topological setups, as they often require direct pointing and cannot seamlessly switch between audio and video content playback across different devices.
Innovation Solution
A voice-controlled multimedia device equipped with infrared LEDs for wireless communication and HDMI ports for controlling TV-AVR systems, capable of detecting user voice commands, determining device states, and switching between audio and video outputs based on user requests, allowing for voice-controlled playback on multiple devices without direct manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If voice recognition technology is used to control multimedia devices, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability of control in complex home environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a voice-controlled device as an intermediary that mediates between the user and multiple electronic devices. The device includes a processor that receives voice inputs, identifies target devices, and sends control signals through intermediate communication protocols (infrared, radio frequency, wired connections) to achieve reliable control across complex home entertainment systems without requiring direct user manipulation of each device
2Adaptability or versatility
If the device controls multiple electronic devices, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal control device that can operate with multiple types of electronic devices (set-top boxes, cable boxes, satellite receivers, video game consoles, personal computers, televisions, audio systems). The device achieves this through multiple communication interfaces (infrared LEDs, radio frequency transceivers, wired network connections) and a processor that can identify and communicate with different device types using appropriate protocols, eliminating the need for separate remote controls for each device
Solution Approach 2:
The control functionality is segmented into distinct communication modules within the device: infrared communication circuitry for IR-based devices, radio frequency transceivers for wireless control, and wired network interfaces for Ethernet-connected devices. This segmentation allows the device to handle different communication protocols independently while providing unified voice-controlled access to multiple device types
3Ease of operation
If voice commands are used to switch between audio and video playback, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision of user intent deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the processor analyzes voice inputs for specific keywords and intent indicators to determine whether the user wants audio or video playback. The system provides confirmation or clarification when intent is ambiguous, and adjusts control signals based on the current state of connected devices (whether audio or video is currently playing) to ensure accurate execution of user intent
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables seamless voice-controlled playback of audio and video content across multiple devices in a home environment, improving user experience by eliminating the need for physical device manipulation and enhancing compatibility with complex home audio-video systems.
Implementation Method 1
A voice-controlled multimedia device is disclosed that plays audio and/or video content on a TV-AVR (television/audio-video receiver) system without requiring a user to physically manipulate the devices
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method includes receiving, at a microphone of a voice-controlled device, a speech input from a user and determining, by the voice-controlled device, that a power state of an AV display device that is coupled to the voice-controlled device is an ON or OFF state. Based on the user intent determined from the speech input and the power state of the AV display, the voice-controlled device sends data to the AV display device to switch the AV display device ON or OFF. The method can further include receiving, by the voice-controlled device, content from a content source location and sending the content to the AV display device via an AV port.