WiFi Bridge Remote Control for Smart Appliance Command Relay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional remote control devices lack the ability to seamlessly integrate with wireless networking capabilities, limiting their functionality in controlling appliances and configuring settings through smart devices and internet-based services.
Innovation Solution
A remote control device equipped with a WiFi transceiver and associated programming, allowing it to communicate with local appliances and internet-based services for setup and configuration, and act as a relay for appliance command requests from smart devices via a wireless network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional remote control devices are used, then the device structure remains simple, but the functionality and adaptability to smart devices are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a conventional remote control device with a wireless network interface (WiFi transceiver), merging two previously separate systems into a single integrated device. This allows the remote control to function both as a traditional infrared/RF controller and as a networked smart device, enabling communication with appliances and services through both traditional and network protocols simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote control device is designed to perform multiple functions: traditional appliance control via infrared/RF, wireless network communication via WiFi, and acting as a relay between smart devices and appliances. This multi-functionality transforms a single-device into a universal control hub that can interface with various types of devices using different communication protocols.
2Adaptability or versatility
If wireless network interface is added to remote control, then the adaptability and functionality are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control system into distinct functional modules: the traditional remote control portion (infrared/RF transmitter) and the networked portion (WiFi transceiver with processing capabilities). This segmentation allows each module to operate independently while communicating through standardized interfaces, making the overall system more manageable despite increased complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote control device with wireless network interface acts as an intermediary between smart devices (phones, tablets) and traditional appliances. It receives commands from smart devices via WiFi, processes them, and transmits appropriate commands to appliances using traditional protocols, thereby mediating between different communication paradigms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If remote control acts as relay for network commands, then the versatility is improved, but the processing requirements and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control device performs partial processing of network commands rather than full interpretation. It receives high-level commands from smart devices, translates them into appropriate appliance-specific protocols, and forwards them. This partial action approach reduces processing requirements compared to full command interpretation while maintaining versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A first remote control application is configured to cause a smart device to transmit at least one command for controlling at least one functional operation of a controllable appliance in response to a user interface element of the smart device being activated while a second remote control application of a bridge device is configured to cause the bridge device to transmit at least one command for controlling at least one functional operation of the controllable appliance in response to receiving at the bridge device the at least one command transmitted from the smart device. The at least one command is transmitted from the smart device using a first transmission protocol and the at least one command is transmitted from the bridge device using a transmission protocol recognized by the controllable appliance.