Volume control over a shared trunk in intercom systems

Abstract

Systems and methods for volume control over intercom trunks. One example method includes receiving a call request from a first key panel coupled to a first intercom that identifies a remote key panel coupled to a second intercom. The method includes sending a trunk request based on the call request and receiving a trunk setup message. The method includes activating a first crosspoint to provide a bidirectional audio connection between the first and second intercom devices. The method includes applying a trunk gain value to the first crosspoint based on the remote key panel and transmitting an audio stream received from the first key panel with an audio gain based on the trunk gain value. The method includes receiving a gain adjustment value associated with the first key panel and the remote key panel from the second intercom and applying an adjusted trunk gain value to the first crosspoint based on the gain adjustment value.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Embodiments described herein relate to intercom systems, intercom devices, and methods of operating the same, and more particularly to systems and methods for sharing volume control over a trunk line. SUMMARY

[0002] An intercom system, such as a broadcast intercom system, can include a large number of audio ports (typically in the range of 100 to 1000 ports). Each port includes an audio input and an audio output. A smart device, such as a key panel, can be connected to each port. Each port can listen to a mix of other sources (ports) at a level of individual control.

[0003] A trunk can enable audio data to be transmitted between a port in one intercom and a port in a different intercom. As one example, this can enable a key panel user to call a user in a different intercom. The recipient hears the call and receives a tally (e.g., a flashing key) indicating who is calling. The recipient can then reply, enabling a two-way conversation. This is similar to a telephone trunk line connecting a telephone user connected to a telephone central office (CO) in one city to a telephone user connected to a CO in another city.

[0004] Some broadcast intercoms support "forking," in which multiple independent calls can be carried on the same trunk without interference, as long as all the calls have a common one port at one end. For example, a key panel Kl in intercom X can be connected to a key panel K2 in intercom Y via a trunk Tl. If key panel K3 (also in intercom Y) calls Kl, that audio can also be carried on the existing trunk Tl. Forking significantly reduces the number of trunks required in a system.

[0005] The trunk path is dynamically determined based on available resources. Note that each trunk is a simple bidirectional audio stream, which carries one audio signal (which can be a mix of sources). It is not a multiplexed channel; the audio stream cannot be split into its individual components.

[0006] Key panel users often monitor multiple audio streams, or participate in multiple audio conferences through a single key panel. As such, users want to be able to control the level at which they hear different audio sources. For example, a user can want to lower the volume for sources that they need to monitor in the background, while increasing the volume for more urgent conversations. With fixed patch cords, individual audio adjustments can be made by adjusting the audio level from the patch cord to the listener. However, this does not work with respect to intercom trunking. First, audio adjustments must be applied dynamically based on where the audio enters the intercom (i.e., which trunk line is selected). Second, if the trunk uses a patch, then local audio adjustments will be applied to all conversations carried over the trunk, whereas the user can want to adjust only one component of the conversation.

[0007] Accordingly, systems and methods for remote volume control over intercom system trunk lines are provided herein. Embodiments described herein can enable, among other things, remote volume adjustments to be applied persistently to trunk audio connections between key panels. Using such embodiments, a user can be able to balance the gain of multiple audio streams received over one or more trunk connections by remotely adjusting the gain in which audio is patched to the trunk.

[0008] One example embodiment provides an intercom device. The device includes a plurality of audio ports including a first port coupled to a first key panel and a second port coupled to a trunk line, the trunk line providing a bidirectional audio connection between the intercom device and a second intercom device; a plurality of crosspoints to interconnect the plurality of audio ports; a communication interface; and an electronic processor coupled to the plurality of crosspoints and the communication interface. The electronic processor is configured to receive a call request from the first key panel that identifies a remote key panel coupled to a second intercom. The electronic processor is configured to send a trunk request to a trunk controller via the communication interface based on the call request. The electronic processor is configured to receive a trunk setup message from the trunk controller via the communication interface. The electronic processor is configured to activate a first crosspoint of the plurality of crosspoints based on the trunk setup message, the first crosspoint being associated with the first port and the second port. The electronic processor is configured to apply a trunk gain value to the first crosspoint based on the remote key panel.

[0009] Another example embodiment provides a method for remote gain adjustment. The method includes receiving a call request from a first key panel coupled to a first intercom, the call request identifying a remote key panel coupled to a second intercom. The method includes sending a trunk request to a trunk controller based on the call request. The method includes receiving a trunk setup message from the trunk controller. The method includes activating a first crosspoint of a plurality of crosspoints based on the trunk setup message, the first crosspoint coupled to a first port coupled to the first key panel and a second port coupled to a trunk line, the trunk line providing a bidirectional audio connection between the first intercom device and the second intercom device. The method includes applying a trunk gain value to the first crosspoint based on the remote key panel. The method includes sending an audio stream received from the first key panel to the second intercom via the second port with an audio gain based on the trunk gain value. The method includes receiving a gain adjustment value associated with the first key panel and the remote key panel from the second intercom. The method includes applying an adjusted trunk gain value to the first crosspoint based on the gain adjustment value. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0010] The accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views and in which:

[0011] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an intercom system in accordance with some embodiments.

[0012] Figure 2 schematically illustrates a trunk controller of the system of Figure 1 in accordance with some embodiments.

[0013] Figure 3 schematically illustrates a key panel of the system of Figure 1 in accordance with some embodiments.

[0014] Figure 4 illustrates aspects of the operation of the system of Figure 1 in accordance with some embodiments.

[0015] Figure 5 illustrates aspects of the operation of the system of Figure 1 in accordance with some embodiments.

[0016] Figure 6 is a flowchart of a method for sharing volume control over a trunk line in accordance with some embodiments.

[0017] Figure 7 An example graphical user interface element is shown in accordance with some embodiments.

[0018] Figure 8 An example graphical user interface element is shown in accordance with some embodiments.

[0019] Those skilled in the art will understand that the elements in the figures are shown for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures can be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve the understanding of the embodiments of the application.

[0020] In the drawings, where appropriate, the use of certain elements of construction and arrangement of components is illustrated by conventional symbols, only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the application will be shown, so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] Before any embodiments are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the application as claimed is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. Other embodiments are capable of being practiced or being carried out in various ways.

[0022] For ease of description, each example system presented herein is illustrated with a single example of each component part of the system. Some examples can not describe or show all components of the system. Other example embodiments can include more or fewer of each illustrated component, can combine some components, or can include additional or alternative components.

[0023] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an example intercom system 100. Figure 1 One example of a networked configuration in which embodiments can be implemented is shown; other configurations are possible. In the example shown, the system 100 includes a relay controller 102, a first intercom 104, a second intercom 106, a relay editor 108, and an intercom editor 110. The relay controller 102, the first intercom 104, the second intercom 106, the relay editor 108, and the intercom editor 110 are communicatively coupled to one another via a communication network 112. The communication network 112 is a communication network including a combination of wireless connections, wired connections, or both. The communication network 112 can be implemented using a local area network (e.g., a Bluetooth TM network or a Wi-Fi network), a wide area network (e.g., the Internet), and combinations or derivatives thereof. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, Figure 1 is a simplified diagram, and the network is more complex than the schematic elements Figure 1 depicted.

[0024] The system 100 also includes a first key panel 114, a second key panel 116, and a third key panel 118. In some embodiments, one or more of the first key panel 114, the second key panel 116, and the third key panel 118 can be communicatively coupled to other components of the system 100 via the communication network 112. It will be appreciated that the system 100 is provided as one example, and in some embodiments, the system 100 can include fewer or additional components. In particular, it will be appreciated that although two intercoms and three key panels are shown, embodiments of the system 100 can include tens, hundreds, or thousands of intercoms and key panels interconnected in various ways. Figure 1

[0025] This document refers to a number of websites and other resources. The content of these websites and other resources is not part of the specification and is instead presented as examples of the state of the art. The content of the websites and other resources is not being incorporated by reference into this document. Figure 3 Each of the first key panel 114, the second key panel 116, and the third key panel 118 detailed herein provides a user with two-way audio communication with one or more other users and one-way audio monitoring of one or more audio sources. For example, a director in a news studio can use the first key panel 114 to communicate with a camera operator who is using the second key panel 116. As described herein, each key panel has a speaker (which plays audio from the intercom to which the key panel is connected) and a microphone (which sends audio to the same intercom). The key panel has various keys which can be used to talk and listen to other users.

[0026] To send and receive audio and control signals, the key panels are connected to ports on the intercoms. For example, as shown, the first key panel 114 and the second key panel 116 are communicatively coupled to ports of the first intercom 104, and the third key panel 118 is communicatively coupled to a port of the second intercom 106. For example, the intercom of the first intercom 104 (described in detail with reference to FIG. 2) includes a number of ports for sending and receiving audio and / or control signals. As described herein, by interconnecting the ports within the intercom at a crosspoint, audio is routed through the intercom system. In each of the first intercom 104 and the second intercom 106, one or more of the ports is audio-only (i.e., no key panel is attached). Such a port can be used to bring audio into and out of the intercom (e.g., an audio feed from an audio mixing console or to a stage announcement speaker). Figure 1 Figure 4 The intercoms detailed in the detailed description include a number of ports for sending and receiving audio and / or control signals. As described herein, by interconnecting the ports within the intercom at a crosspoint, audio is routed through the intercom system. In each of the first intercom 104 and the second intercom 106, one or more of the ports is audio-only (i.e., no key panel is attached). Such a port can be used to bring audio into and out of the intercom (e.g., an audio feed from an audio mixing console or to a stage announcement speaker).

[0027] In some embodiments, each of the first intercom 104 and the second intercom 106 can be an RTS Intercom or ​​​One of the intercoms. The first intercom 104 and the second intercom 106 are configured using an intercom editor 110. In some embodiments, the intercom editor 110 is software produced by RTS Intercom Software Products to configure, control, and monitor the operation of intercoms and keypanels, particularly crosspoint and remote volume settings.

[0028] As shown, the first keypanel 114 and the second keypanel 116 are connected to ports on the first intercom 104, and the third keypanel 118 is connected to a port on the second intercom 106. As described herein, the trunk controller 102, the first intercom 104, and the second intercom 106 operate to provide audio communication between the first keypanel 114, the second keypanel 116, and the third keypanel 118. For example, as described in detail with reference to Figure 1 Figure 4 To increase the capabilities of the intercom system, multiple intercoms can be bound together via trunks. The trunks can give a user in one intercom access to resources in another intercom (e.g., a call connected to a keypanel of a different intercom). For example, as described in detail with reference to

[0029] The first keypanel 114, the second keypanel 116, or both can send and receive audio communication to the third keypanel 118 via one or more of the first intercom 104, the second intercom 106, and the multiple interconnected trunks 120. A trunk is an audio-only connection from one port in one intercom to another port in a different intercom. Calls from the first intercom 104 to the second intercom 106 (i.e., trunked calls) are managed by the trunk controller 102. Figure 5

[0030] In this regard, the trunk controller 102, the first intercom 104, and the second intercom 106 operate to provide audio communication between the first keypanel 114, the second keypanel 116, and the third keypanel 118. For example, as described in detail with reference to Figure 2 ​​​The detailed relay controller 102 operates to configure and select connections between the first intercom 104 and the second intercom 106. Relays (e.g., using the relay editor 108) are predefined. The relay controller 102 knows what relays are and what they connect. When a call is placed from one intercom to a user in the other intercom, the relay controller 102 decides which predefined relay to use, and that relay is then used to pass audio between the local and remote users (i.e., their respective keypanels). As described in detail herein, the relay controller 102 can also send control messages (e.g., using a suitable communication protocol) to the first intercom 104 and the second intercom 106 to adjust gain settings for the crosspoints within the intercoms. In some embodiments, the relay editor 108 is implemented by the RTS Intercom Trunk and Trunk software products to configure, control, and monitor the operation of the relay controller 102, particularly the setup and use of relays between intercoms and keypanels.

[0031] Figure 2 One example embodiment of the relay controller 102 is shown in more detail. In the example provided, the relay controller 102 includes an electronic processor 205, a memory 210, a communication interface 215, and a display 220. The illustrated components, along with other various modules and components (not shown), are coupled to one another by or via one or more control or data buses (e.g., a communication bus 250) that enable communications therebetween. The use of control and data buses for interconnection and exchange of information between various modules and components should be apparent to those of skill in the art in view of the descriptions provided herein. In some embodiments, the relay controller 102 is a network-attached computer server. Figure 2 Only one example embodiment of the relay controller 102 is shown. The relay controller 102 can include fewer or additional components, and can perform functions other than those explicitly described herein. In some embodiments, the relay controller 102 is one of the Trunk series of products produced by RTS Intercom Corporation (e.g., model ).

[0032] The electronic processor 205 obtains and provides information, e.g., from the memory 210 and / or the communication interface 215, and processes the information by executing one or more software instructions or modules, which can be stored in a random access memory ("RAM") region of the memory 210, or in a read only memory ("ROM") of the memory 210, or in another non-transitory computer readable medium (not shown), for example. The software can include firmware, one or more applications, program data, filters, rules, one or more program modules, and other executable instructions. The electronic processor 205 is configured to retrieve from the memory 210, and to execute, inter alia, software related to the control processes and methods described herein.

[0033] The memory 210 can include one or more non-transitory computer-readable media, and include program storage and data storage regions. The program storage and data storage regions can include a combination of different types of memory, as described herein. In the illustrated embodiment, the memory 210 stores, inter alia, relay definitions 225 (described in detail herein).

[0034] The communication interface 215 is configured to receive input and provide system output. The communication interface 215 obtains information and signals from devices internal and external to the relay controller 102, and provides information and signals thereto, e.g., through one or more wired and / or wireless connections. The communication interface 215 can include a wireless transmitter or transceiver for wireless communication over the communication network 112. The communication interface 215 can include, instead of or in addition to a wireless transmitter or transceiver, a port for receiving an electrical cable, e.g., an Ethernet cable, for communication over the communication network 112 or a dedicated wired connection. It will be appreciated that, in some embodiments, the relay controller 102 communicates with other devices through one or more intermediate devices, e.g., routers, gateways, relays, etc.

[0035] The display 220 is a suitable display such as, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) touchscreen or an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) touchscreen. In some embodiments, the relay controller 102 implements a graphical user interface (GUI) (e.g., generated by the electronic processor 205 according to instructions and data stored in the memory 210, and presented on the display 220) that enables a user to interact with the relay controller 102. In some embodiments, the relay controller 102 implements a display remotely, e.g., using a display of the relay editor 108 or a display of another remote computer terminal (not shown) (via one or more intermediate networks).

[0036] In some embodiments, the relay editor 108 and the intercom editor 110 are or include computer servers that include similar components and are generally constructed and configured similarly to the relay controller 102.

[0037] Figure 3 One exemplary construction of the first key panel 114 is shown. In the illustrated example, the first key panel 114 includes a number of electrical and electronic components that provide power, operational control, and protection to components and modules within the first key panel 114. The first key panel 114 includes an electronic controller 305 that also includes an electronic processor 310 (e.g., a programmable electronic microprocessor, microcontroller, or similar device) and a memory 315 (e.g., a non-transitory machine-readable memory). The electronic processor 310 is communicatively coupled to the memory 315 and executes instructions stored on the memory 315. The electronic processor 310 is configured to retrieve and, among other things, execute instructions related to the control processes and methods described herein from the memory 315. In other embodiments, the first key panel 114 can include fewer or additional components and can perform functions other than those explicitly described herein. In some embodiments, the first key panel 114 is a KP Series key panel manufactured by RTS Intercom Systems, Inc. KP Series One of the KP Series intercom key panels (e.g., model KP-4) ) manufactured by RTS Intercom Systems, Inc.

[0038] In the illustrated embodiment, the first key panel 114 also includes a human-machine interface 317. The human-machine interface 317 includes a microphone 320, a speaker 325, a display 330, and an input mechanism 335. The microphone 320 and the speaker 325 can be constructed in various configurations. For example, the speaker 325 and the microphone 320 can be integrated into a single headset, or can be separate, standalone components. The speaker 325, the microphone 320, the display 330, and the input mechanism 335 are electrically coupled to the controller 305 and provide input and output functionality for a user of the first key panel 114. In some embodiments, the first key panel 114 generates an audio stream (e.g., a voice message) from the microphone 320. In other embodiments, the audio stream can be generated by other sources and received by the first key panel 114. The audio stream can also be stored in the memory 315. User-selectable entry selections from the input mechanism 335 direct the transmission and reception of the audio stream by the first key panel 114, as described below.

[0039] The input mechanism 335 can have a plurality of inputs, including a plurality of buttons, toggles, triggers, and the like. Each of these inputs can activate communication with one or more particular intercom devices. When one of the inputs of the input mechanism 335 is activated (e.g., by being pressed, toggled, held, etc.), the controller 305 selects the particular intercom device selected by the activated input for communication, and can send addressing information associated with the selected intercom device to the first intercom 104. The first intercom 104 can then activate a communication link between the first keypanel 114 and the selected intercom device. The first keypanel 114 can be preconfigured with the address of each particular intercom device associated with each particular input.

[0040] In some embodiments, the second keypanel 116 and the third keypanel 118 include similar components, and are generally constructed and configured similarly to the first keypanel 114. In some embodiments, the second keypanel 116, the third keypanel 118, or both are substantially identical to the first keypanel 114.

[0041] As noted above, the first intercom 104 is configured to provide audio communication between the first keypanel 114 and the second keypanel 116. As Figure 4 As shown, the first intercom 104 includes a plurality of audio ports 402 (each including an input and an output). The audio ports 402 are configured to create a switching structure 404. The switching structure 404 can be implemented physically (e.g., using solid state circuitry) or digitally. Regardless of its construction, the switching structure 404 provides crosspoints (including crosspoints 405-408) for interconnecting audio inputs and outputs in order to, among other things, provide audio connectivity between the keypanels. The first intercom 104 includes an electronic controller 410 (e.g., including at least an electronic processor, memory, and a communication interface) to control the switching structure 404 to activate and deactivate the crosspoints. For example, the electronic controller 410 connects the audio input of port 2 to the audio output of port 6 at crosspoint 405, and connects the audio input of port 6 to the audio output of port 2 at crosspoint 408, to provide connectivity between the first keypanel 114 and the second keypanel 116. In this way, audio emitted with the microphone 425 of the second keypanel 116 is routed to the speaker 320 of the first keypanel 114. Likewise, audio emitted with the microphone 325 of the first keypanel 114 is routed to the speaker 420 of the second keypanel 116. The electronic controller 410 controls the gain of each crosspoint. The default gain of each crosspoint is 0 dB.

[0042] Similar to an audio mixing console, a keypanel can listen to a mix of different audio inputs. For example, as Figure 4As shown, the second key panel 116 receives audio from the input ports 4 and 5 in addition to the audio from the first key panel 114, which is patched to the output port 6 at the crosspoint 406 and 407, respectively. Thus, the output port 6 carries a mix of three audio signals to the speaker 420 of the second key panel 116. Since each crosspoint has its own gain, the user of the second key panel 116 can adjust (e.g., using the input mechanism 335) the relative loudness of the inputs.

[0043] Figure 4 Two key panels are shown communicating via a single intercom. However, as noted above, some intercom systems utilize relays to provide audio connections across multiple intercoms. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the first key panel 114, the second key panel 116, and the third key panel 118 communicate via the first intercom 104 and the second intercom 106. The second intercom 106 is configured similarly to the first intercom 104 and includes a plurality of audio ports 502 configured to create a switching structure 504 controlled by an electronic controller 506. The first intercom 104 is connected to the second intercom 106 via a relay 508 (one of the plurality of interconnected relays 120). The relay can be a physical connection (e.g., a wired connection) or a virtual connection (e.g., using an internet protocol connection). Figure 5

[0044] When the user of the first key panel 114 inputs a request to call the user of the third key panel 118, the electronic controller 410 sends a request to establish a connection to the relay controller 102. In response, the relay controller 102 sends a message to the first intercom 104 and the second intercom 106 to establish audio via the relay 508 and to give the second key panel 116 an indication that there is an incoming call from the first key panel 114. In response to receiving the message, the electronic controller 410 of the first intercom 104 activates the crosspoint 510 to patch the input port 1 to the output port 2 (the relay port) and the electronic processor 506 of the second intercom 106 activates the crosspoint 512 to patch the input port 4 (the relay port) to the output port 3. In this way, audio input received from the microphone 325 of the first key panel 114 is routed to the speaker 520 of the third key panel 118. Although a one-way audio connection is shown for ease of description, it should be noted that the audio connection can be two-way.

[0045] In some cases, more than one key panel can wish to connect to a remote key panel on another intercom. In this case, the relay controller 102 will utilize a patching to connect multiple users via a single relay, thus reducing the number of relays required in the system. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the first key panel 114, the second key panel 116, and the third key panel 118 communicate via the first intercom 104 and the second intercom 106. The second intercom 106 is configured similarly to the first intercom 104 and includes a plurality of audio ports 502 configured to create a switching structure 504 controlled by an electronic controller 506. The first intercom 104 is connected to the second intercom 106 via a relay 508 (one of the plurality of interconnected relays 120). The relay can be a physical connection (e.g., a wired connection) or a virtual connection (e.g., using an internet protocol connection). Figure 5 ​As shown, if the second keypad 116 requests a call from the third keypad 118, the relay controller 102 will instruct the first intercom 104 and the second intercom 106 to establish the connection via the existing relay 508. In response, the electronic controller 410 of the first intercom 104 will activate the crosspoint 514 to plug the input port 5 into the output port 2 (relay port). When this is complete, the speaker 520 of the third keypad 118 will now receive audio from the microphone 325 of the first keypad 114 via the relay 508, which is mixed with the audio from the microphone 425 of the second keypad 116.

[0046] In some configurations, the keypad can receive one or more remote audio sources on the trunk line (e.g., as discussed in this article). Figure 5 (As described). Because adjusting the gain used for the trunk line in the local radio also adjusts the gain used for all audio sources received on the trunk line, it is impossible to balance the volume used for mixing the audio signals. Therefore, the gain used for each audio source must be adjusted at its corresponding input crossover point. Therefore, Figure 6 An exemplary method 600 for remote volume control over a shared trunk line is shown. Although method 600 is described in conjunction with system 100 as described herein, method 600 can also be used with other systems and devices. Furthermore, method 600 can be modified or performed differently from the specific example provided.

[0047] As an example, method 600 is described as being performed by a first walkie-talkie 104 and specifically by an electronic controller 410. However, it should be understood that in some embodiments, portions of method 600 may be performed by other devices, including, for example, a second walkie-talkie 106 and a repeater controller 102. An additional electronic controller may also be included in the first walkie-talkie 104, which performs all or part of method 600. For ease of description, method 600 is described as consisting of three keypads and two walkie-talkies connected by a single repeater line. However, method 600 can be applied to systems comprising three or more walkie-talkies, four or more keypads, two or more repeaters, and combinations thereof.

[0048] In block 602, the first intercom 104 receives a call request from the first keypad 114, the identifier of which is coupled to the remote keypad of the second intercom. For example, a user of the first keypad 114 can activate a toggle switch of the input mechanism 335 to make a call to the third keypad 118. This input generates a call request control signal to the first intercom 104. The call request specifically identifies the remote keypad.

[0049] When the first intercom 104 receives the call request, it establishes a connection between the call key panel and the called key panel (e.g., activates a crosspoint). The first intercom 104 stores (e.g., in a memory of the electronic controller 410) the locations of the key panels in the intercom system 100. When a call request is received for a key panel connected to another intercom, the first intercom 104 must first establish a connection to the other intercom before connecting the call key panel. At block 604, in response to receiving a call request from the first key panel 114 requesting a connection to a remote key panel, the first intercom 104 sends (e.g., via a communication interface) a trunk request to the trunk controller 102 (e.g., using a suitable electronic communication protocol) based on the call request. The call request can include information about the call, such as an identifier of the first key panel, an identifier of the remote key panel, an identifier of the second intercom 106, etc.

[0050] The trunk controller 102 receives the call request and selects one or more trunks and / or intermediate intercoms (e.g., from a table containing the trunk definitions 225 stored in the memory 210) that can establish a trunk connection between the first intercom 104 and the intercom to which the remote key panel is connected (in this example, the second intercom 106). The trunk controller 102 generates a trunk setup message including information needed by the intercoms to establish the trunk and sends the trunk message to its respective intercoms.

[0051] At block 606, the first intercom 104 receives the trunk setup message from the trunk controller (e.g., via a communication interface). For example, the trunk message can indicate that the first intercom 104 should connect a first port coupled to the first key panel 114 to a second port coupled to a trunk line (e.g., connecting input port 1 to output port 2 as shown in Figure 5

[0052] As described above, the ports of the intercoms are arranged such that any port can be patched to any other one or more ports. At block 608, the first intercom 104 activates a first crosspoint (e.g., crosspoint 510 in Figure 5 The first crosspoint is associated with the first port and the second port, and activating it (e.g., by actuating an electronic relay, triggering a solid state switch, or implementing a digital connection) patches the ports so that audio signals can flow between them. Similarly, the second intercom 106 receives the trunk setup message, which indicates that the second intercom 106 should connect a port coupled to the third key panel 118 to another port coupled to the same trunk line (e.g., connecting input port 2 to output port 3 as shown in Figure 5 ​The diagram shows input port 4 connected to output port 3. A relay is established between the two keypads when two walkie-talkies plug their trunk lines into their respective keypads. In some embodiments, the first walkie-talkie 104, the second walkie-talkie 106, the relay controller 102, or a combination thereof, will start a relay timer and monitor signals passing through the relay. In such embodiments, when the relay remains inactive for a period defined by the relay timer, the relay is disconnected, thereby freeing the relay for use by other users.

[0053] As described above, an audio gain (volume level) is applied at the crossover point. By default, the crossover gain is set to 0dB, so that any signal received at the crossover point passes through at its existing gain level. To allow remote keypad users to adjust the relative volume of the mixed audio signal received at the remote keypad, a relay gain value is applied.

[0054] In block 610, the first intercom 104 applies a relay gain value to the first crossover point based on a remote keypad. In some embodiments, in response to receiving a request to connect a remote keypad via a relay, the first intercom 104 retrieves the relay gain value based on the first keypad and the remote keypad (e.g., from the memory of the electronic controller 410). For example, the memory of the electronic controller 410 may store the relay gain value to be applied whenever the first keypad 114 is plugged into a remote keypad (e.g., a third keypad 118). In some embodiments, the first intercom 104 applies the relay gain value to the first crossover point based on a relay establishment message. For example, the relay establishment message may include the relay gain value to be applied when establishing a relay to link the first keypad and the remote keypad.

[0055] When the first intercom 104 receives an audio stream from the first keypad 114, the first intercom 104 transmits the audio stream to the second intercom via a second port coupled to the repeater at an audio gain based on the repeater gain value. For example, if the repeater gain value is -3dB, the gain of the received audio stream is adjusted to -3dB at the crossover point before transmitting the audio stream via the repeater. This way, even if the audio stream is mixed with other audio streams for transmission via the repeater, the remote keypad will receive the audio stream at the crossover point gain level.

[0056] Using method 600, a user of the remote keypad (e.g., a user of the third keypad 118) is able to adjust the volume of a signal received from a remote source via a relay. In one exemplary embodiment, the first intercom 104 receives a gain adjustment value associated with the first keypad and the remote keypad from the second intercom 106. For example, a user of the remote keypad can activate the input mechanism of the remote keypad to adjust the volume of a call from the first keypad by +1 dB.

[0057] When the first intercom 104 receives the gain adjustment value, it applies an adjusted relay gain value to the first crosspoint based on the gain adjustment value. In this example, the adjusted relay gain value is generated by adding 1 dB to the relay gain value of the first crosspoint. The first intercom 104 transmits the audio stream with an audio gain based on the adjusted relay gain value. To maintain the gain settings for future connections of the same key panel, the first intercom 104 stores (e.g., in the memory of the electronic controller 410) the adjusted relay gain value, the identifier associated with the first key panel, and the identifier associated with the remote key panel. In some embodiments, the first intercom 104 transmits this information to the relay controller 102 for storage.

[0058] As described above, in some embodiments, a relay timer is used. In such embodiments, in response to activating the first crosspoint, the first intercom 104 starts the relay timer and monitors the relay audio. When the relay timer expires without receiving audio input from the first key panel or the remote key panel, the first intercom 104 deactivates the first crosspoint, thereby tearing down the relay. In some embodiments, when a relay is reestablished for the same two key panels, the previously adjusted volume is applied to the relay. In such embodiments, the first intercom 104 receives a second call request from the first key panel identifying the remote key panel. The second call request is substantially similar to the call request described above. In response, the first intercom 104 sends a second relay request to the relay controller based on the second call request. The first intercom 104 receives a second relay setup message from the relay controller and activates the first crosspoint based on the second relay setup message, as described above with reference to the first relay setup message. The first intercom retrieves the adjusted relay gain value based on the first key panel and the remote key panel (e.g., from the memory of the electronic controller 410). For example, the identifiers of the first key panel and the remote key panel are used to query a lookup table and the adjusted relay gain value matching those identifiers is returned. The first intercom 104 then applies the adjusted relay gain value to the first crosspoint. As a result, the reestablished relay transmits audio from the first key panel with the same gain requested by the remote key panel during the previous relay call.

[0059] In some configurations, more than one trunk line can be used to connect two intercoms. Since the relay gain value is stored in relation to the first key panel and the remote key panel, in some embodiments, the first intercom 104 applies the adjusted relay gain value to any relay connection between the first key panel and the remote key panel, regardless of which trunk line is used to connect the two.

[0060] As described above with reference to Figure 5Some walkie-talkies use a forklift to connect more than one local keypad to a remote keypad via the same trunk line. In some embodiments, the gain is adjusted at its respective intersection point for each keypad.

[0061] For example, the second key panel of the first walkie-talkie 104 coupled to the third port of the first walkie-talkie 104 (e.g., the second key panel 116 coupled to the input port 5, such as...) Figure 5 (As shown) The first walkie-talkie 104 receives a second call request, identified by a remote keypad coupled to the second walkie-talkie. In response, the first walkie-talkie 104 sends a second trunk request to the trunk controller based on the second call request. The first walkie-talkie 104 receives a second trunk establishment message from the trunk controller. The first walkie-talkie 104 activates the second crossover point (e.g., based on the second trunk establishment message) based on the second trunk establishment message. Figure 5 (See intersection 514 shown). The first walkie-talkie 104 applies a second relay gain value to the second intersection based on the second key panel and the remote key panel. For example, as described above, the first walkie-talkie 104 can retrieve the second relay gain value from the memory of the electronic controller 410 using the identifiers of the second key panel and the remote key panel.

[0062] In some embodiments, audio gain adjustment for remote assignment can be performed in any one or more intercoms that form a relay connection between key panels. For example, when... Figure 5 As shown, when adjusting the audio level from the first key panel 114 to the third key panel 118, the audio gain can be adjusted in the first walkie-talkie 104 or the second walkie-talkie 106 (or even in a combination thereof). For example, when relaying in the first walkie-talkie 104 (such as... Figure 5 As shown, the audio gain must be adjusted in the first intercom 104 for the appropriate crossover point. Similarly, if the relay crossovers in the second intercom 106 (not shown), the audio gain must be adjusted in the second intercom 106 for the appropriate crossover point. When the relay is not crossovered at either end, the gain can be adjusted in either the first intercom 104 or the second intercom 106. In some embodiments, the relay controller 102 determines where to adjust the gain and sends a message to the affected intercom. For example, in response to a request for a -6dB gain adjustment, the relay controller 102 may send a message to the first intercom 104 instructing it to apply a -6dB gain at the appropriate local crossover point. In another example, the relay controller 102 may send a message to the first intercom 104 and the second intercom 106 instructing each to apply a -3dB gain at their respective local crossover points, resulting in a total requested path gain of -6dB.

[0063] Due to the size of some walkie-talkie systems, remote gain adjustment capabilities are limited to conserving limited memory resources. Figure 7An example graphical user interface element 700 is shown. Element 700 is generated by intercom editor 110 to allow a user to configure, for example, first intercom 104 and second intercom 106. The user can specify a maximum panel quantity 704 ("Panels with Gain") that limits how many ports in the system are allowed to request remote gain adjustment. The user can also specify a maximum gain quantity per panel 706 ("Gains per Panel") that limits the number of individual gain values that can be specified by an individual key panel.

[0064] In some embodiments, remote gain adjustment must be enabled for a remote key panel before method 600 can be used to adjust the remotely assigned gain. Figure 8 An example graphical user interface element 800 is shown. Element 800 is generated by intercom editor 110 to allow a user to configure, for example, first key panel 114, second key panel 116, and third key panel 118. Using check boxes 802, the user can enable remote assigned gain on a key panel. The quantity of remote assigned gain is limited, as described herein with reference to Figure 7 .

[0065] When remote assigned gain has been enabled for a key panel, the user can adjust the gain for the remote assignment. For example, the gain can be adjusted for the remote assignment as for a local assignment. For example, on a KP-5032 key panel, the user moves a lever key for assignment left or right to adjust the gain. In another example, the remote assignment gain can be pre-set using software on intercom editor 110 (e.g., AZedit).

[0066] In some embodiments, an intercom supports multiple independent party lines. For example, in a digital intercom, a party line is a resource that does not have any specific hardware such as a physical line. Multiple users (key panels) all talk and listen to the same party line, and because the controller has closed the necessary crosspoints, they will all hear each other. Using a party line, a connected key panel can listen (not talk), talk (not listen), or can do both at the same time. Using the embodiments described herein, a key panel can adjust the level at which it listens to a remote party line.

[0067] One or more embodiments are described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are not limited to the specific details provided herein and can be modified in various ways. In addition, other embodiments can exist that are not described herein. Furthermore, functions described as being performed by one component can be performed by multiple components in a distributed manner. Likewise, functions that are described as being performed by multiple components can be consolidated and performed by a single component. Similarly, a component described as performing a particular function can also perform additional functions that are not described herein. For example, a device or structure that is "configured" in a certain way is configured in at least that way, but can also be configured in ways that are not listed. Furthermore, some embodiments described herein can include one or more electronic processors that are configured to perform the described functions by executing instructions stored in non-transitory computer-readable media. Similarly, embodiments described herein can be implemented as non-transitory computer-readable media storing instructions that are executable by one or more electronic processors to perform the described functions. As used in this application, "non-transitory computer- readable media" includes all computer-readable media, except for a transitory propagating signal. Thus, non-transitory computer-readable media can include, for example, a hard disk, a CD-ROM, an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a register, processor cache, or any combination thereof.

[0068] In addition, the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. For example, "including," "comprising," "having," "containing," "involving," and variations thereof, are meant to encompass the item listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. The terms "connected" and "coupled" are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect connections and couplings. In addition, "connected" and "coupled" are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings and can include electrical connections or couplings, whether direct or indirect. Furthermore, electronic communications and notifications can be performed using wired connections, wireless connections, or combinations thereof, and can be transmitted directly or through one or more intermediary devices over various types of networks, communication channels, and connections. The terms "a" and "one" are defined as one or more, unless explicitly stated otherwise herein. The terms "substantially," "essentially," "approximately," "about," or any other version thereof, are defined as being close to as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, and in one non-limiting embodiment the term is defined to be within 10% of the value, in another embodiment within 5%, in another embodiment within 1%, and in another embodiment within 0.5%. In addition, relational terms, such as first and second, top and bottom, and the like can be used herein solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions.

[0069] Various features and advantages of some embodiments are set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A walkie-talkie device, comprising: Multiple audio ports, including a first port coupled to a first key panel and a second port coupled to a trunk line, the trunk line providing a bidirectional audio connection between the walkie-talkie device and the second walkie-talkie device; Multiple intersection points for interconnecting the multiple audio ports; Communication interface; as well as An electronic processor is coupled to the plurality of intersections and the communication interface; The electronic processor is configured to: A call request is received from the first key panel, and its identifier is coupled to the remote key panel of the second walkie-talkie device; Based on the call request, a relay request is sent to the relay controller via the communication interface; Receive relay establishment message from the relay controller via the communication interface; The first cross point among the plurality of cross points is activated based on the relay establishment message, and the first cross point is associated with the first port and the second port; The relay gain value is applied to the first intersection point based on the remote key panel; Using the audio gain based on the relay gain value, the audio stream received from the first key panel is transmitted to the second walkie-talkie device via the second port; Receive gain adjustment values ​​associated with the first keypad and the remote keypad from the second walkie-talkie device; and The adjusted relay gain value is applied to the first crossover point based on the gain adjustment value.

2. The walkie-talkie device according to claim 1, wherein, The electronic processor is also configured to apply the relay gain value to the first intersection based on the relay establishment message.

3. The walkie-talkie device according to claim 1 further includes: Memory; The electronic processor is coupled to the memory and configured to retrieve the relay gain value from the memory based on the first key panel and the remote key panel.

4. The walkie-talkie device according to claim 1, wherein, The electronic processor is also configured to transmit the audio stream using an audio gain based on the adjusted relay gain value.

5. The walkie-talkie device according to claim 1, further comprising: Memory; The electronic processor is coupled to the memory and configured to store in the memory the adjusted relay gain value, the identifier associated with the first key panel, and the identifier associated with the remote key panel.

6. The walkie-talkie device according to claim 5, wherein, The electronic processor is also configured to: In response to activating the first intersection, a relay timer is started; and When the relay timer expires and no audio input is received from the first key panel: Deactivate the first intersection; Receive a second call request identifying the remote key panel from the first key panel; Based on the second call request, a second trunk request is sent to the trunk controller via the communication interface; Receive a second relay establishment message from the relay controller via the communication interface; The first intersection is activated based on the second relay establishment message; The adjusted relay gain value is retrieved from the memory based on the first key panel and the remote key panel; as well as The adjusted relay gain value is applied to the first crossover point.

7. The walkie-talkie device according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of audio ports includes a third port coupled to the second key panel; and The electronic processor is also configured to: A second call request is received from the second key panel, the identifier of which is coupled to the remote key panel of the second walkie-talkie device; Based on the second call request, a second trunk request is sent to the trunk controller via the communication interface; Receive a second relay establishment message from the relay controller via the communication interface; The second cross point among the plurality of cross points is activated based on the second relay establishment message, and the second cross point is associated with the second port and the third port; as well as The second relay gain value is applied to the second intersection based on the second key panel and the remote key panel.

8. The walkie-talkie device according to claim 7, further comprising: Memory; The electronic processor is coupled to the memory and configured to retrieve the second relay gain value from the memory based on the second key panel and the remote key panel.

9. The walkie-talkie device according to claim 7, wherein, The electronic processor is also configured to: Receive a second gain adjustment value associated with the first key panel and the remote key panel from the second walkie-talkie; The second adjusted relay gain value is applied to the second crossover point based on the second gain adjustment value; as well as The audio stream received from the first key panel is sent to the second walkie-talkie device via the second port, and is mixed with the second audio stream received from the second key panel; The audio stream has an audio gain based on the adjusted relay gain value, and the second audio stream has a second audio gain based on the second adjusted relay gain value.

10. The walkie-talkie device according to claim 1, further comprising: Memory; The plurality of audio ports include a third port coupled to the second key panel and a fourth port coupled to a second trunk line, the second trunk line providing a second bidirectional audio connection between the walkie-talkie device and the second walkie-talkie device; and The electronic processor is coupled to the memory and is further configured to: A second call request is received from the second key panel, the identifier of which is coupled to the remote key panel of the second walkie-talkie device; Based on the second call request, a second trunk request is sent to the trunk controller via the communication interface; Receive a second relay establishment message from the relay controller via the communication interface; The second cross point among the plurality of cross points is activated based on the second relay establishment message, and the second cross point is associated with the third port and the fourth port; Retrieve the second relay gain value from the memory based on the second keypad and the remote keypad; and Apply the second relay gain value to the second crossover point.

11. A method for operating a walkie-talkie system, the method comprising: A call request is received from a first key panel coupled to a first walkie-talkie device, the call request identifying a remote key panel coupled to a second walkie-talkie device; A trunk request is sent to the trunk controller based on the call request; Receive a relay establishment message from the relay controller; Based on the relay establishment message, a first crosspoint among a plurality of crosspoints is activated. The first crosspoint is coupled to a first port coupled to a first key panel and a second port coupled to a trunk line, the trunk line providing a bidirectional audio connection between the first walkie-talkie device and the second walkie-talkie device. The relay gain value is applied to the first intersection point based on the remote key panel; Using the audio gain based on the relay gain value, the audio stream received from the first key panel is transmitted to the second walkie-talkie device via the second port; Receive gain adjustment values ​​associated with the first keypad and the remote keypad from the second intercom; and The adjusted relay gain value is applied to the first crossover point based on the gain adjustment value.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein, Applying the relay gain value to the first crossover point includes applying the relay gain value based on the relay establishment message.

13. The method of claim 11, further comprising: The relay gain value is retrieved from the memory based on the first key panel and the remote key panel.

14. The method of claim 11, further comprising: The audio stream is transmitted using an audio gain based on the adjusted relay gain value.

15. The method of claim 11, further comprising: The adjusted relay gain value, the identifier associated with the first key panel, and the identifier associated with the remote key panel are stored in the memory.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising: In response to activating the first intersection, a relay timer is started; as well as When the relay timer expires and no audio input is received from the first key panel: Deactivate the first intersection; Receive a second call request identifying the remote key panel from the first key panel; Based on the second call request, a second trunk request is sent to the trunk controller; Receive a second relay establishment message from the relay controller; The first intersection is activated based on the second relay establishment message; The adjusted relay gain value is retrieved from the memory based on the first key panel and the remote key panel; as well as The adjusted relay gain value is applied to the first crossover point.

17. The method of claim 11, further comprising: A second call request is received from a second key panel coupled to a third port, the second call request identifying the remote key panel coupled to the second walkie-talkie device; Based on the second call request, a second trunk request is sent to the trunk controller; Receive a second relay establishment message from the relay controller; The second cross point among the plurality of cross points is activated based on the second relay establishment message, and the second cross point is associated with the second port and the third port; as well as The second relay gain value is applied to the second intersection based on the second key panel and the remote key panel.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: The second relay gain value is retrieved from the memory based on the second key panel and the remote key panel.

19. The method of claim 17, further comprising: Receive a second gain adjustment value associated with the first key panel and the remote key panel from the second walkie-talkie; The second adjusted relay gain value is applied to the second crossover point based on the second gain adjustment value; as well as The audio stream received from the first key panel is sent to the second walkie-talkie device via the second port, and is mixed with the second audio stream received from the second key panel; The audio stream has an audio gain based on the adjusted relay gain value, and the second audio stream has a second audio gain based on the second adjusted relay gain value.

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