Systems, methods, and apparatus for audio reproduction

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to systems, methods, and devices for audio reproduction. The system includes a media computing device and an electronic device that are connected so that their speakers can be used in combination when optimizing audio reproduction of media being played or streamed. Each device can be portable, and the audio reproduction can include virtual / surround / soundfield audio reproduction. When connected, the media computing device functions as the host for data communication, and the electronic device functions as the slave. In this way, the media computing device can process audio signals into any parts for reproduction on any speakers. Additionally, when connected and if needed, the electronic device functions as the host for power management, and the media computing device functions as the slave. Depending on the system configuration, the appropriate connection can be made via a wireless connection or a single-cable wired connection between the media computing device and the electronic device.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to audio processing. More specifically, the present invention relates to systems, methods, and devices for audio reproduction between media computing devices and electronic devices. BACKGROUND

[0002] There are various media computing devices that employ speaker systems that are not optimized for the audio reproduction of the media being played or streamed for the listening enjoyment of a user. For example, speaker systems with speaker drivers that are too small in size do not allow the low frequency audio range to be adequately reproduced. This is an even greater problem for media computing devices that have limited space to adequately accommodate a suitable speaker system for processing audio reproduction. The lack of optimization is further exacerbated when reproducing virtual / surround / sound audio.

[0003] Accordingly, there is a need for systems, devices, and methods for optimizing audio reproduction in media computing devices and / or utilizing media computing devices to optimize audio reproduction. SUMMARY

[0004] In one aspect of the present invention, a system for audio reproduction is provided. The system includes an electronic device and a portable media computing device. The electronic device includes: 1) a first interface configured to communicate with the media computing device and receive only low frequency components of an audio signal from the media computing device; 2) a first processing unit configured to process the low frequency components of the audio signal for reproduction; 3) a first speaker configured to audibly reproduce the low frequency components of the audio signal such that they complement other frequency components of the audio signal that are being simultaneously reproduced by a second speaker of the media computing device; and 4) a second interface configured to connect with a power source for powering the electronic device in order to audibly reproduce the low frequency components of the audio signal. The media computing device includes: 1) the second speaker; and 2) a second processing unit configured to: communicate with the electronic device using a third interface, process the audio signal such that the low frequency components and the other frequency components are extracted from the audio signal, provide the low frequency components to the electronic device for processing for reproduction on the first speaker, and process the other frequency components for reproduction on the second speaker. Each of the first and third interfaces is a wired data interface, a wired data and power combination interface, a wireless data interface, a wired data interface and a wireless power interface, or a wireless data interface and a wireless power interface. The second interface is a wired power interface or a wired data and power combination interface.

[0005] According to various embodiments, the media computing device is a mobile smartphone, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a TV, a PC, or a media player. Additionally, the wired data interface is associated with USB; the wired data and power combination interface is associated with USB Type-C; the wireless data interface is associated with Bluetooth, RF, IR, or Wi-Fi; the wireless power interface is associated with inductive coupling; and the wired power interface is associated with a detachable or fixed connection.

[0006] In another aspect of the application, an electronic device for audio reproduction is provided. The electronic device includes: 1) a first interface configured to communicate with a portable media computing device and to receive only low-frequency components of an audio signal from the media computing device; 2) a processing unit configured to process the low-frequency components of the audio signal for reproduction; 3) a first speaker configured to audibly reproduce the low-frequency components of the audio signal such that they complement other frequency components of the audio signal that are simultaneously reproduced by a second speaker of the media computing device; and 4) a second interface configured to connect with a power source for powering the electronic device in order to audibly reproduce the low-frequency components of the audio signal. The first interface is a wired data interface, a wired data and power combination interface, a wireless data interface, a wired data interface and a wireless power interface, or a wireless data interface and a wireless power interface. The second interface is a wired power interface or a wired data and power combination interface.

[0007] According to some embodiments, the power source is integrated within the electronic device or is independent of the electronic device. According to other embodiments, the first interface is a wired data and power combination interface that includes a link cable receptacle and a link cable controller; the processing unit includes a microprocessor, a digital-to-analog converter, and a power amplifier; and the power source is a power adapter that is also used to power the media computing device. However, according to other embodiments, the reproduced low-frequency components complement the reproduced other frequency components through synchronized timing, amplitude matching, phase matching, or any combination of the above.

[0008] In yet another aspect of the application, a method for audio reproduction is provided. The method includes: 1) connecting an electronic device having at least one supplemental speaker with a media computing device having at least one primary speaker, where each speaker has a corresponding location in a listening space of a user; 2) processing an audio signal via the media computing device to obtain at least one separated audio signal component; 3) reproducing the first separated audio signal component at the at least one supplemental speaker; and 4) reproducing any portion of the audio signal at the at least one primary speaker. The media computing device is portable. The reproduction of the first separated audio signal component at the at least one supplemental speaker and any portion of the audio signal at the at least one primary speaker are synchronized for the listening enjoyment of the user. The method can also include synchronizing vibrations / motions from a vibrating / moving device based on at least a portion of the first separated audio signal component being reproduced at the at least one supplemental speaker. The at least a portion of the first separated audio signal component is based on a separation of the first separated audio signal component. Further, reproducing the first separated audio signal component includes reproducing at least a portion of the first separated audio signal component at the at least one supplemental speaker.

[0009] According to some embodiments, the media computing device serves as a host and the electronic device serves as a slave for data communication between the electronic device and the media computing device. According to other embodiments, the electronic device also serves as a host for power management between the electronic device and the media computing device and the media computing device also serves as a slave. According to other embodiments, processing the audio signal to obtain at least one separated audio signal component is performed in conjunction with virtualizing the audio signal. The audio signal is a multi-channel audio signal and the at least one separated audio signal component corresponds to a.1 channel extracted or derived from the multi-channel audio signal. Processing the audio signal to obtain at least one separated audio signal component can include separating the audio signal into audio signal components based on a frequency range corresponding to the at least one supplemental speaker determined by the media computing device.

[0010] Some advantages of the application include: 1) enhancing virtual / surround audio reproduction for portable media computing devices; 2) a space saving solution for optimizing or utilizing a media computing device to optimize audio reproduction in the media computing device; 3) an energy efficient solution for optimizing audio reproduction while providing the necessary power to the media computing device; 4) a flexible solution that accommodates various power adapters for different media computing devices; 5) optimizing or utilizing a media computing device to optimize audio reproduction; and 6) a scalable and / or dynamic solution for optimizing power management (e.g., dynamically matching power to adapt in real-time to the power needs of the media computing device and the electronic device). These and other features and advantages of the application are described below with reference to the drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 is a system for audio reproduction between a media computing device and an electronic device according to various embodiments of the application.

[0012] Figure 2 is a system for audio reproduction between a media computing device and an electronic device according to various embodiments of the application.

[0013] Figure 3 is a portion of a system for audio reproduction between a media computing device and an electronic device as shown in Figure 2

[0014] Figure 4A is a system for audio reproduction between a media computing device and an electronic device integrated with a power adapter according to various embodiments of the application.

[0015] Figure 4B is a system for audio reproduction between a media computing device and an electronic device with a separate power adapter according to various embodiments of the application.

[0016] Figure 5 is a flowchart of a system for audio reproduction between a media computing device and an electronic device according to various embodiments of the application.

[0017] Figure 6 A typical computer system that can be used in conjunction with one or more embodiments of the present application is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodiments of the application. Examples of the preferred embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. While the application will be described in conjunction with these preferred embodiments, it will be understood that they are not intended to limit the application to these preferred embodiments. On the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents, which can be included within the spirit and scope of the application as defined by the appended claims. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present application. The present application can be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, well known mechanisms have not been described in detail, so as not to unnecessarily obscure the present application.

[0019] ​It should be noted that like numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of the drawings. The various figures shown and described herein are used to illustrate various features of the present application. Where a particular feature is shown in one figure and not in another, it should be understood that such features can be adapted to be included in embodiments represented in the other figures, unless the context inherently prohibits such inclusion or the structure inherently prohibits such inclusion. The drawings are not necessarily to scale unless otherwise indicated. Any dimensions provided on the drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the present application, but are merely illustrative.

[0020] Systems, devices, and methods for audio reproduction are provided. The system includes a media computing device and an electronic device that are connected so that their speakers can be used in combination to optimize audio reproduction of media being played or streamed. Each device can be portable, mobile, and / or handheld. The audio reproduction can include virtual / surround / ambient audio reproduction. When connected, the media computing device functions as the host for data communication and the electronic device functions as the slave. In this way, the media computing device can process audio signals into any parts for reproduction on any speakers. Additionally, when connected and if needed, the electronic device functions as the host for power management and the media computing device functions as the slave. The electronic device can be integrated with or independent of a power adapter. Depending on the system configuration, the appropriate connection can be made via a wireless connection or a single-cable wired connection between the media computing device and the electronic device.

[0021] Advantageously, the present application addresses the technical problem of optimizing audio reproduction associated with a media computing device. The optimization can be achieved at different levels. The audio is processed at the media computing device so that any parts can be reproduced at the media computing device and the electronic device. The speaker(s) of the electronic device together with the speaker(s) of the media computing device can provide additional audio processing capability / capacity, increased audio sound field, and / or improved audio virtualization / surround / ambient; thereby optimizing the listening enjoyment of the user. For example, a low frequency part of an audio signal can be extracted or derived from a multi-channel audio signal and sent from the media computing device to the electronic device for reproduction on its supplemental speakers. The low frequency part of the audio signal can correspond to.1 channel of the multi-channel audio signal. If needed, the need to filter out the low frequency part at the electronic device can be eliminated. In this way, the system advantageously utilizes the existing audio processing and audio reproduction capabilities of the media computing device in utilizing the connected electronic device to supplement the audio reproduction.

[0022] Additionally, the system can advantageously reproduce less directional low frequency portions of the audio signal at the electronic device and more directional portions of the audio signal (e.g., in addition to the low frequency portions of the audio signal) at the media computing device. Thus, a user of the media computing device can experience a more enhanced audio virtualization / spatialization / surround effect, especially when the speakers of the media computing device are located at an optimal distance and height from the user. However, the electronic device can be configured to further provide audio processing capabilities (e.g., splitting the low frequency portions into sub-portions). In this way, the system also advantageously provides an electronic device that supplements the audio processing of the media computing device by sharing the audio processing workload as needed.

[0023] For power management, the electronic device can further supplement the media computing device by providing power to the media computing device. In this case, the electronic device can be integrated with a power adapter for powering the electronic device and the media computing device. Since the media computing device can require the power adapter to receive its power, this integration advantageously minimizes the number of items that a user carries while supplementing the audio reproduction of the media computing device. Alternatively, in the case where the electronic device is adapted to be used in conjunction with various power adapters, the electronic device can be independent of the power adapter.

[0024] Figure 1 is a system 100 for audio reproduction between a media computing device 102 and an electronic device 122 according to various embodiments of the present invention. The system 100 includes the media computing device 102, the electronic device 122, and a wireless / wired link 115. The media computing device 102 and the electronic device 122 are typically both located in a user listening space 103 of a user 101. The media computing device 102 includes any device capable of processing data, including but not limited to audio data associated with video, telephony, or channel media types. For example, the media computing device 102 can be a smart phone 102a, a laptop computer 102b, a tablet computer 102c, a television / personal computer (TV / PC) 102d, or a media player. Typically, the media computing device 102 is also capable of sending the processed audio to primary speaker(s) 104 for audio reproduction. In this way, the media computing device 102 is associated with the primary speaker(s) 104.

[0025] The electronic device 122 includes supplemental speaker(s) 124, a power adapter 126, and a power plug 128. The electronic device 122 is powered by the power adapter 126, which is connected to an electrical outlet via the power plug 128. The electronic device 122 can be integrated with the power adapter 126 and the power plug 128, or independent of the power adapter 126 and the power plug 128.

[0026] The media computing device 102 and the electronic device 122 are capable of connecting together via a wireless / wired link 115 to communicate with each other. Both the media computing device 102 and the electronic device 122 can implement a common communication interface and protocol to facilitate the communication. The communication can include the media computing device 102 sending audio data to the electronic device 122. In some embodiments, portions of the audio signal can be sent. For example, only the low frequency audio components of the audio signal are sent from the media computing device 102 to the electronic device 122 for reproduction on the supplemental speaker(s) 124. However, any or other portions of the audio signal can be sent from the media computing device 102 for reproduction on the primary speakers 104. In this manner, the system 100 provides optimized audio reproduction for the user's listening enjoyment. The audio signal is any signal containing audio information, including but not limited to a multi-channel audio signal (e.g., a stereo audio signal). The system 100 can be associated with a multi-channel audio speaker system including but not limited to a 1.1, 2.1, 5.1, 5.1.2, 7.1, or 7.1.2 audio speaker system. In a preferred embodiment, the system 100 is a 2.1 audio speaker system.

[0027] The media computing device 102 can process data including audio processing and virtualization, which can be implemented based on Applicant's U.S. Patent Application No. 11 / 800,349, entitled "METHOD FOR SPATIALLY PROCESSING MULTICHANNEL SIGNALS, PROCESSING MODULE, AND VIRTUAL SURROUND-SOUND SYSTEMS," filed May 4, 2007, now U.S. Patent No. 8,705,748, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In portable media computing devices, the number and / or frequency response of the speakers can be limited. For example, the laptop computer 102b can only have two speakers (i.e., a stereo 2.0 audio speaker system), each with a frequency response that is insufficient to reproduce audio below 1000 Hz. As such, the electronic device 122 can be used to supplement the low frequency range of the audio signal by providing speaker driver(s) that are appropriately sized to reproduce the low frequency range of the audio signal. Additionally, the deficient speakers of the laptop computer 102b can not provide virtualization that is optimized for the user's listening enjoyment. For example, the two speakers of the laptop computer 102b can be used to virtualize the audio signal such that they resemble a 5.1 or 7.1 audio speaker system. However, due to the deficient speakers of the laptop computer 102, the virtualization is not optimized. For example, the two speakers are not able to adequately reproduce the low frequencies of the audio signal (e.g., the.1 channel of a multi-channel audio signal; bass) such that the virtualization is enhanced. Thus, the user's listening experience will be compromised. As such, the electronic device 122 can again be used to supplement the deficiency (e.g., the low frequency range of the audio signal; bass) by providing speaker(s) (e.g., bass reflex) and / or speaker driver(s) (e.g., bass speaker) that are appropriately sized to reproduce the deficiency with the virtualization optimized / enhanced. While it can be possible to appropriately size the speakers of the laptop computer 102b, the laptop computer 102b is often spatially constrained and not conducive to doing so. Audio processing can also include encoding / decoding audio signals and enhancing certain components of the audio signal.

[0028] Figure 2is a system 200 for audio reproduction between a media computing device 202 and an electronic device 222 according to various embodiments of the present application. The system 200 includes the media computing device 202, the electronic device 222, and a wireless / wired link 215. Interconnections (e.g., for data, power, or both data and power) are shown connecting the different components of the system 200 together. Certain interconnections and / or components can be included or rearranged to implement the audio reproduction optimization of the present application, whether or not shown. The media computing device 202 includes a processing unit 208, a memory 210, a data-pwr interface 206, speakers 204a and 204b (similar to the primary speaker(s) 104), an optional display 213, and a power supply 212. The electronic device 222 includes a processing unit 229, a data-pwr interface 228, a data-pwr interface 230, a speaker 224 (similar to the supplemental speaker(s) 124), and a power supply 226. According to some embodiments, the components in the electronic device 222 are divided into two chambers. For example, the speaker 224, alone or with other components, has a sound chamber 232 that is separate from a power chamber 234 that houses the power components of the power supply. In other embodiments, the speaker 224, alone or with other components, has a sound chamber 232 that is shared with the power chamber 234 that houses the power components of the power supply.

[0029] For optimized audio reproduction, the media computing device is configured so that the processing unit 208 can access data 211 stored in the memory 210 or over the Internet, such as an audio stream 211a and virtual sound software 211b; process the audio stream 211a corresponding to an audio signal with audio processing software such as the virtual sound software 211b to generate an audio portion (e.g., any portion or portions of the audio signal, including a portion(s) that corresponds to the entire audio signal); and send the audio portion to the speakers 204a and 204b through a digital-to-analog converter and power amplifier and to the electronic device 222 via the data-pwr interface 206. The electronic device 222 is configured so that the processing unit 229 can receive the audio portion (e.g., only the low frequency components of the audio signal) from the data-pwr interface 206 via the corresponding data-pwr interface 228 (which supplements the data-pwr interface 206 when data communication between is established via the wireless / wired link 215); and process the audio portion through a digital-to-analog converter and power amplifier for audio reproduction at the speaker 224.

[0030] For optimized power management, the electronic device 222 can be configured such that the processing unit 229 can provide appropriate power from the power source 226 to the media computing device 202 via the data-pwr interfaces 228 and 230. For example, the processing unit 229 can coordinate with the processing unit 208 in providing or calibrating power from the power source 226 to match the needs of the media computing device 202 or the power source 212 (used to power the media computing device 202). The matching can include matching voltage and / or power to drive corresponding components (e.g., speakers 204a, 204b; processing unit 208; display 213). The power sources 212 and 226 can be associated with a rechargeable battery or an adapter. The power sources 212 and 226 can be from stored power (e.g., a battery) or continuous power (e.g., an AC-DC adapter). In this way, the electronic device 222 can function as an external mobile power bank or portable charger. Similarly, the processing unit 229 can provide appropriate power from the power source 226 to the electronic device 222 via the data-pwr interface 230.

[0031] As previously mentioned, the data-pwr interfaces 206 and 228 will complement each other according to the wireless / wired link 215 to allow for communication between the media computing device 202 and the electronic device 222. The data-pwr interfaces 206 and 228 can be nearly identical. According to implementation, the data-pwr interfaces 206 and 228 can be associated with a wired data interface, a wired data and power combination interface, a wireless data interface, a wired data interface and a wireless power interface, or a wireless data interface and a wireless power interface. Further, the data-pwr interface 230 can be associated with a wired power interface or a wired data and power combination interface. The wired data interface can include, for example, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Type-A connector and / or associated component(s); thus, the wired link 215 can be a USB cable. The wired data and power combination interface can include, for example, a USB Type-C connector and / or associated component(s); thus, the wired link 215 can be a USB Type-C cable. The wireless data interface can include a Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, radio frequency (RF), or infrared (IR) transmitter / receiver and / or associated component(s). The wired power interface can include a fixed soldered connection or a detachable power connection (e.g., pin connection, USB Type-C connection). The wireless power interface can include an inductive connection (e.g., wireless charging).

[0032] To optimize audio signal reproduction for the user's listening experience, the audio reproduction of the audio portions from speakers 204a, 204b, and 224 should be complementary. For example, this can be achieved by utilizing synchronization timing, amplitude matching, phase matching, normalization, or any combination of these techniques during audio signal processing to complement the reproduction of the audio signal at the primary speakers 204a and / or 204b, excluding the low-frequency components, and the reproduction of the low-frequency components of the audio signal at the supplementary speaker 224. In some embodiments, since the positions of the primary speakers 204a and / or 204b and the supplementary speaker 224 can be arbitrary relative to the user, system calibration is required. Calibration can be performed manually or automatically. For example, manual calibration may include allowing the user to input the relative positions of the speakers of the media computing device 202 and the electronic device 222. As another example, a microphone may be placed on the media computing device 202 or the electronic device 222 to pick up the audio calibration tone generated from the media computing device 202 or the electronic device 222 during automatic calibration.

[0033] Figure 3 According to various embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 2 Part 300 of a system for audio reproduction between media computing device 202 and electronic device 222 is shown. Interconnections (e.g., for data, power, or both) connecting different components of part 300 are shown. Certain interconnections and / or components may be included or rearranged, whether shown or not, to achieve the audio reproduction optimization of the present invention. Specifically, part 300 shows an exemplary data-pwr interface 228 and processing unit 229 of electronic device 222, wherein the data-pwr interface 228 is associated with a wired data and power combined interface. A corresponding link cable 315 provides a pwr 315a and data 315b interconnection between the data-pwr interface 206 at media computing device 202 and the data-pwr interface 228 at electronic device 222. Link cable 315 may correspond to wired link 215. Data-pwr interface 228 includes a link cable receptacle 228a and a link cable controller 228c. Link cable receptacle 228a is configured to communicate with media computing device 202 via data-pwr interface 206 and to deliver power (e.g., receive from power supply 226) to media computing device 202. Link cable receptacle 228a is connected via interconnect 228b to link cable controller 228c, which is configured to facilitate connections (e.g., establishing, maintaining, or terminating) between media computing device 202 and electronics device 222 via link cable 315. Link cable controller 228c is also connected via interconnect 228d to processing unit 229.

[0034] The processing unit 229, which can be similar to the processing unit 208 and / or vice versa, includes a microprocessor 229a, a digital-to-analog converter 229c, and a power amplifier 229e. The microprocessor 229a is connected to the digital-to-analog converter 229c via an interconnection 229b, which is then connected to the power amplifier 229e via an interconnection 229d. The microprocessor 229a is configured to control / process / manage any data communication, data processing, and power management aspects in the electronic device 222 and with the media computing device 202. For example, the microprocessor 229a can receive any audio portion from the data-pwr interface 228, process the audio portion if necessary (e.g., no processing, audio enhancement processing, further separation of any audio portion, processing a supplement to processing performed at the media computing device 202, etc.), and send the audio portion through the digital-to-analog converter 229c and the power amplifier 229e for reproduction at the speaker 224 via an interconnection 229f. The microprocessor 229a can also communicate with the power source 226 and the media computing device 202, and regulate the power needs of the electronic device 222 and the media computing device 202. As shown, a data-pwr interface 230 is associated with the wired data and power combination interface. The data-pwr interface 230 is configured to facilitate connection (e.g., establishment, maintenance, and termination) from the power source 226 (via a link cable 317 having a pwr 317a and data 317b interconnection) to the data-pwr interface 228 (via an interconnection 230a) and the processing unit 229 (via an interconnection 230b) for powering the electronic device 222 and the media computing device 202 as needed. The link cable 317 can be similar to the link cable 315. The link cable 317 and the power source 226 can be integrated within the electronic device 222 or independent of the electronic device 222.

[0035] Figure 4Ais a system 400 for audio reproduction between a media computing device 202 and an electronic device 222 integrated with a power adapter 426, in accordance with various embodiments of the present application. The media computing device 202 includes primary speakers 204a and 204b for audio reproduction. The electronic device 222 includes a power adapter 426, a link cable 315, a power plug 428, a vibration / motion device 425, and a supplemental speaker 224. The electronic device 222 can replace or be used as a power adapter for the media computing device. As such, the primary speakers 204a and 204b in combination with the supplemental speaker 224 are configured for optimized audio reproduction. For example, the primary speakers 204a and 204b can be left and right channels for reproducing mid to high frequency audio components (typically with more directionality) and are positioned in a listening space of a user (e.g., height and distance from the user's ears based on more directionality) to optimize the user's listening enjoyment. Similarly, the supplemental speaker 224 can be used to reproduce low frequency audio components (typically with less directionality) and is also positioned in a listening space of a user (e.g., height and distance from the user's ears based on less directionality) to optimize the user's listening enjoyment. Thus, the system 400 is used for optimized audio reproduction.

[0036] Figure 4B is a system 420 for audio reproduction between a media computing device 202 and an electronic device 222 having a separate power adapter 427, in accordance with various embodiments of the present application. The media computing device 202 includes primary speakers 204a and 204b for audio reproduction. The electronic device 222 is a separate device having a link cable 315 and a supplemental speaker 224. The electronic device 222 can supplement the link cable 317, the power adapter 427, and the power plug 428 of the media computing device. As such, the primary speakers 204a and 204b in combination with the supplemental speaker 224 are configured for optimized audio reproduction. For example, the primary speakers 204a and 204b can be left and right channels for reproducing mid to high frequency audio components and are positioned in a listening space of a user (e.g., optimized height and distance from the user's ears or based on user's preferences) to optimize the user's listening enjoyment. Similarly, the supplemental speaker 224 can be used to reproduce low frequency audio components and is positioned in a listening space of a user (e.g., optimized height and distance from the user's ears or based on user's preferences) to optimize the user's listening enjoyment. Thus, the system 420 is used for optimized audio reproduction.

[0037] Figure 5is a flowchart 500 for audio reproduction between a media computing device and an electronic device according to various embodiments of the present application. At step 502, connecting an electronic device having at least one supplemental speaker with a media computing device having at least one primary speaker is performed. Typically, each speaker has a corresponding location in a user's listening space. In preferred embodiments, the media computing device is a portable device. Connecting the electronic device with the media computing device can include initializing data communication between the electronic device and the media computing device. In this case, the data communication is bidirectional between the electronic device and the media computing device. Connecting the electronic device with the media computing device can be performed via a wired connection or a wireless connection.

[0038] Connecting the electronic device with the media computing device can also include initializing power management between the electronic device and the media computing device such that power is provided from the electronic device to the media computing device. Typically, the media computing device acts as a host for the data communication and the electronic device acts as a slave. However, the electronic device can act as a host for the power management and the media computing device can act as a slave. The host and the slave can perform any necessary actions for establishing, maintaining, or terminating the data communication and / or the power management, including but not limited to negotiation or request-response. According to preferred embodiments, connecting the electronic device with the media computing device can be performed using a single-cable wired connection.

[0039] At step 504, processing the audio signal via the media computing device to obtain at least one separated audio signal component is performed. Various processing techniques can be used, including filtering / extraction techniques, such as applying a high-pass filter or a low-pass filter or an all-pass filter. For example, a low-pass filter can be used to obtain only a low frequency signal component of the audio signal. Processing the audio signal to obtain at least one separated audio signal component can be performed in conjunction with virtualizing the audio signal. For example, a low frequency effects (LFE) channel from the virtualization can be used as a separated audio signal component while virtualizing the audio signal. Processing the audio signal to obtain at least one separated audio signal component can include extracting a.1 channel from a multi-channel audio signal (e.g., 5.1) or deriving a.1 channel from a multi-channel audio signal (e.g., stereo audio signal; left and right audio signals). Processing the audio signal to obtain at least one separated audio signal component includes separating the audio signal into audio signal components based on a frequency range. The frequency range can correspond to an acceptable frequency response range of the at least one supplemental speaker determined or obtained by the media computing device (e.g., the media computing device can query and / or receive technical specifications and requirements of the at least one supplemental speaker from an electronic device and cause the at least one separated audio signal component to at least match / fit it). Separating the audio signal into audio signal components can be based on any technical requirements of the at least one supplemental speaker. The first separated audio signal component can correspond to a low frequency range below 1000 Hz or any subset thereof (e.g., 20-60 Hz; 60-250 Hz; 250-500 Hz; 500-1000 Hz). However, any portion of the audio signal can include a second separated audio signal component that corresponds to any frequency range other than or in addition to the low frequency range or any subset thereof.

[0040] At step 506, reproducing the first separated audio signal component at the at least one supplemental speaker is performed. Similarly, at step 508, reproducing any portion of the audio signal at the at least one primary speaker is performed. The reproducing of the first separated audio signal component at the at least one supplemental speaker and any portion of the audio signal at the at least one primary speaker are synchronized for the user's listening enjoyment. The reproducing at steps 506 and 508 can include any processing necessary to reproduce any portion of the audio signal at the at least one primary speaker or the at least one supplemental speaker. Such processing can include, but is not limited to, utilizing a microprocessor, a digital-to-analog converter, or a power amplifier. The processing can also include normalization. For example, the reproducing of the first separated audio signal component at the at least one supplemental speaker and any portion of the audio signal at the at least one primary speaker are normalized such that any playback volume discrepancies introduced by the relative positions of the at least one supplemental and primary speakers with respect to the user are optimized for the user's listening enjoyment. By way of further example, the reproducing of the first separated audio signal component at the at least one supplemental speaker and any portion of the audio signal at the at least one primary speaker are synchronized in time such that any time delays introduced by the relative positions of the at least one supplemental and primary speakers with respect to the user are optimized for the user's listening enjoyment through audio calibration.

[0041] At step 510, synchronizing the vibration / motion from the vibration / motion device based, optionally, on at least a portion of the first separated audio signal component being reproduced at the at least one supplemental speaker is performed. The at least a portion of the first separated audio signal component can be based on the separation of the first separated audio signal component, wherein reproducing the first separated audio signal component includes reproducing the at least a portion of the first separated audio signal component at the at least one supplemental speaker. For example, the first separated audio signal can be further processed by the processing unit 208 and / or the processing unit 229 to obtain the at least a portion of the first separated audio signal component (e.g., first and second portions of the first separated audio signal component) and reproduce them on the first and second supplemental speakers with synchronized vibration / motion from the vibration / motion device. Alternatively, synchronizing the vibration / motion from the vibration / motion device based on the first separated audio signal component being reproduced at the at least one supplemental speaker can be performed. Advantageously, when the vibration / motion is synchronized with a particular portion of the audio signal (e.g., a low frequency signal component, an LFE channel, a subset of the separated audio signal component), the vibration / motion will enhance the user's listening enjoyment. Additionally, the at least one supplemental speaker can be downward-facing to enhance the reproducing effect of the first separated audio signal component or the at least a portion of the first separated audio signal component for improved user listening enjoyment.

[0042] Figure 6A typical computer system 600 that can be used in conjunction with one or more embodiments of the present application is shown. The computer system 600 includes one or more processors 602 (also referred to as central processing units or CPUs) coupled to a storage device that includes a main memory 606 (typically random access memory or RAM) and another memory 604 (typically read-only memory or ROM). As is well known in the art, the main memory 604 is used for storing data and instructions that the CPU single-directionally transfers from the main memory 604 to the CPU, and the main memory 606 is typically used for transferring data and instructions in a bi-directional manner. Both of these main memory devices can include any suitable non-transitory computer-readable medium, including a computer program product that includes a machine-readable medium on which is provided program instructions according to one or more embodiments of the present application.

[0043] A mass storage device 608 is also bi-directionally coupled to the CPU 602 and provides additional data storage capacity and can include any non-transitory computer- readable medium, including a computer program product that includes a machine-readable medium on which is provided program instructions according to one or more embodiments of the present application. The mass storage device 608 can be used to store programs, data and the like and is typically a secondary storage medium such as a hard disk or a flash drive. It will be appreciated that the information retained in the mass storage device 608 can, in appropriate cases, be incorporated in standard fashion as part of the main memory 606 as virtual memory. Particular mass storage devices such as CD-ROM or external flash drives can also transfer data to the CPU uni-directionally or bi-directionally, respectively.

[0044] The CPU 602 is also coupled to an interface 610 that includes one or more input / output devices such as a video monitor, trackball, mouse, keyboard, microphone, touch-sensitive display, transducer card reader, magnetic or paper tape reader, tablet computer, stylus, voice or handwriting recognizer, or other well-known input devices such as those used in conjunction with natural user interfaces. Finally, the CPU 602 optionally can be coupled to a computer or telecommunications network using a network connection as generally illustrated at 612. With such a network connection, it is contemplated that the CPU might receive information from the network, or might output information to the network in the course of performing the above-described method steps. The above-described devices and materials will be familiar to those skilled in the computer hardware and software arts.

[0045] Advantageously, various embodiments of the present application also provide: 1) improved audio virtualization / spatialization / surround sound for portable media computing devices; 2) compensation for lack of optimal audio reproduction in media computing devices; 3) single-cable wired links for data and power solutions to facilitate optimal audio reproduction; 4) smart intelligence for easy and quick connectivity; 5) configurable systems for optimizing user's audio listening preferences.

[0046] While the foregoing application has been described in some detail for purposes of clarity and understanding, it will be apparent that certain changes and modifications can be practiced within the scope of the appended claims. Accordingly, the present embodiments are to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive, and the application is not to be limited to the details given herein, but can be modified within the scope and equivalents of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A system for audio reproduction, comprising: Electronic devices, including: A first interface is configured to communicate with a media computing device, provide power to the media computing device, and receive only the low-frequency component of an audio signal from the media computing device, which is portable; A first processing unit is configured to process the low-frequency component of the audio signal for reproduction; A first speaker, configured to audibly reproduce the low-frequency components of the audio signal, such that they complement other frequency components of the audio signal being simultaneously reproduced by a second speaker of the media computing device; and A second interface is configured to connect to a power adapter for powering the electronic device to audibly reproduce the low-frequency component of the audio signal, wherein the power adapter also powers the media computing device, and wherein the electronic device is integrated with the power adapter; and The media computing device includes: The second speaker; and The second processing unit is configured to: communicate with the electronic device using a third interface and receive power from the electronic device; process the audio signal to extract the low-frequency component and the other frequency components from the audio signal; provide the low-frequency component to the electronic device for processing so as to reproduce it on the first speaker; and process the other frequency components so as to reproduce it on the second speaker. Each of the first interface and the third interface is selected from the group consisting of: a wired data and power combined interface, a wired data interface and a wireless power interface, and a wireless data interface and a wireless power interface; and The second interface is either a wired power interface or a wired data and power combined interface.

2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The media computing device is selected from the group consisting of: mobile smartphones, laptop computers, tablet computers, TVs, PCs, and media players.

3. The system as described in claim 2, wherein, The media computing device is handheld and includes a display.

4. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The wired data interface is associated with USB; the wired data and power combo interface is associated with USB Type-C; the wireless data interface is associated with Bluetooth, RF, IR, or Wi-Fi; the wireless power interface is associated with an inductive connection; and the wired power interface is associated with a detachable or fixed connection.

5. An electronic device for audio reproduction, comprising: A first interface is configured to communicate with a media computing device, provide power to the media computing device, and receive only low-frequency components of audio signals from the media computing device, which is portable. A processing unit configured to process the low-frequency component of the audio signal for reproduction; A first speaker is configured to audibly reproduce the low-frequency components of the audio signal, such that they complement other frequency components of the audio signal being simultaneously reproduced by the second speaker of the media computing device. as well as A second interface is configured to connect to a power adapter for powering the electronic device in order to audibly reproduce the low-frequency component of the audio signal, wherein the power adapter is also used to power the media computing device, and the electronic device is integrated with the power adapter; The first interface is selected from the group consisting of: a wired data and power combined interface, the wired data interface and the wireless power interface, and the wireless data interface and the wireless power interface; and The second interface is either a wired power interface or a wired data and power combined interface.

6. The electronic device as claimed in claim 5, wherein, The first interface is a wired data and power combination interface including a link cable socket and a link cable controller; wherein, the processing unit includes a microprocessor, a digital-to-analog converter, and a power amplifier.

7. The electronic device as claimed in claim 5, wherein, The first loudspeaker has a sound chamber, and the power supply has a power chamber separate from the sound chamber, the power chamber encapsulating the power components of the power supply.

8. The electronic device as claimed in claim 5, wherein, The reproduced low-frequency components are supplemented by synchronized timing, amplitude matching, phase matching, or any combination of the above to reproduce other frequency components.

9. A method for audio reproduction, comprising: An electronic device having at least one supplementary speaker is connected to a media computing device having at least one main speaker, each speaker having a corresponding position in the user's listening space, the media computing device being portable; The audio signal is processed via the media computing device to obtain at least one separate audio signal component; The first separate audio signal component is reproduced at the at least one supplementary speaker; and Reproduce any portion of the audio signal at the at least one main speaker. Wherein, the reproduction of the first separate audio signal component at the at least one supplementary speaker and any portion of the audio signal at the at least one main speaker is synchronized for the user's listening enjoyment; and The electronic device is used to provide power to the media computing device, and the electronic device is integrated with a power adapter for powering the electronic device and the media computing device.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein, Connecting the electronic device to the media computing device includes: initializing data communication between the electronic device and the media computing device.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein, Connecting the electronic device to the media computing device further includes: initializing power management between the electronic device and the media computing device to enable power to be supplied from the electronic device to the media computing device.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein, The media computing device serves as a host for data communication and the electronic device serves as a slave device; and wherein the electronic device serves as a host for power management and the media computing device serves as a slave device.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein, The connection between the electronic device and the media computing device is performed using a single-cable wired connection.

14. The method of claim 9, wherein, Processing the audio signal to obtain at least one separate audio signal component is performed together with virtualizing the audio signal, wherein the audio signal is a multi-channel audio signal and the at least one separate audio signal component corresponds to a .1 channel extracted or obtained from the multi-channel audio signal.

15. The method of claim 9, wherein, Processing the audio signal to obtain at least one separate audio signal component includes: dividing the audio signal into audio signal components based on a frequency range corresponding to the at least one supplementary speaker, as determined by the media computing device.

16. The method of claim 9, wherein, The first separated audio signal component corresponds to a low-frequency range below 1000Hz, and wherein any part of the audio signal includes a second separated audio signal component corresponding to any frequency range other than the low-frequency range.

17. The method of claim 9, wherein, The reproduction of the first separate audio signal component at the at least one supplementary speaker and any portion of the audio signal at the at least one primary speaker is normalized so that any playback volume differences introduced by the relative positions of the at least one supplementary speaker and the at least one primary speaker with respect to the user are optimized for the user's listening enjoyment.

18. The method of claim 9, wherein, Reproducing the first separated audio signal component includes: reproducing at least a portion of the first separated audio signal component at the at least one supplementary speaker, wherein the at least a portion of the first separated audio signal component is based on the separation of the first separated audio signal component, the method further comprising: Based on at least a portion of the first separated audio signal component being reproduced at the at least one supplementary loudspeaker, the vibration / motion from the vibration / motion device is synchronized.

19. The method of claim 9, wherein, The first separate audio signal component at the at least one supplementary speaker and any portion of the audio signal at the at least one main speaker are synchronized in time so that any time delay introduced by the relative positions of the at least one supplementary speaker and the at least one main speaker relative to the user is optimized for the user's listening enjoyment through audio calibration.

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