UMS UPnP Remote User Interface - Help!

[michaelt]

I would like to revisit the idea floated by DeFlanko in the thread [CLOSED] Client Application (viewtopic.php?t=109).

It was the line:

But wouldn't it be nice to have a Windows/Mac/iOS/Android built app made specifically for the UMS?

and the reference to a Control Point which caught my attention.

Currently we are using Collectorz to catalog and it has a few very good features:

• simple, clear GUI; UPC driven input
  computer: a line for each Title in one pane, details in a second pane
  iOS device : simple downloaded Title lines, tap one for details

I am putting together a Video Media System to replace a wall of DVD's and my up/down loading/unloading.
It has four main components:

• the Renderer (any TV, Projector, …)
  the Server: UMS with a few fixes and tweaks (most already done)
  the Manager app to create/download the index & feed UMS on the fly (I'll handle this)
  the Remote User Interface/Control Point - the missing piece

Although the Remote User Interface/Control Point could be combigned with other functions, I chose not to, so as to keep each major component independent, focused and simple. Also the Remote part of the spec will be ignored - no playing movies at home from the office!

After a few hours searching for User Interfaces/Control Points, I found a lot but nothing with just the basic UI/control functions. I am looking for help in finding or implementing this. Since all (most) of todays components are DLNA compliant, it may become be a Universal DLNA Remote Control later. Open source and free of course.

An off-the-shelf solution would be best but most were too complex and pricey.
Second would be a multi-function app which could be limited to just a Remote Control.
Last is to develop one from scratch.
Anyone know a good iOS/Android developer who might be interested?

A few more system details:

• Network: LAN only, no internet
  UMS: sees only a few titles (much faster!)
  Manager app: create/download index; feed playlist to UMS; misc housekeeping chores
  UI/Control Point: media index is downloaded; handles vol+-, pause, play, stop, skip, ...

[michaelt]

Bump
A few hours of research answered a few details and presented a few more. The main post was rewritten to update.