Method and system for providing alarms for radio communications

Abstract

Method for providing alarms for the playback of received radio communications, the method comprising: Entertainment, by means of a radio device for playing back received audio streams to a user, a keyword database of a playback alarm of a received audio stream with one or more first keywords for matching with second keywords detected in a particular received audio stream, which are used to identify that the particular received audio stream is to be played back to the user of the radio device accompanied by an audio alarm when a match is found; Detection by the radio device of a change in context-dependent parameters associated with the radio device, and in response to the detection of the change in context-dependent parameters associated with the radio device, automatic updating of the keyword database of a playback alarm of a received audio stream, based on the detected change in the context-dependent parameters associated with the radio device, to include an additional first keyword that was not previously included in the one or more first keywords, or a modified first keyword of the one or more keywords, wherein the change in the context-dependent parameters includes one of the following: a change in the personal context-dependent parameters associated with the user of the radio device, a change in vehicle-related context-dependent parameters,which are linked to a vehicle that is linked to the user of the radio device, a change to context-dependent parameters relating to an event that is linked to an event that is linked to the user of the radio device, or a change to environment-related context-dependent parameters that are linked to the user of the radio device; , subsequent reception, via radio communications, of a first specific received audio stream for playback by a user at the radio device; Detection, by the radio device, of a match between a specific second keyword in the first specific received audio stream and the additional first keyword in the database of a playback alert of a received audio stream, or the modified first keyword in the keyword database of a playback alert of a received audio stream; and one of: prior to the subsequent playback of the first specifically received audio stream for the user, causing the radio device to provide an alarm for the first specifically received audio stream, and subsequently playing, by the radio device, the first specifically received audio stream for the user; and During playback, the radio device will cause the user to receive an alarm for the first specific audio stream received.

Description

Background of the invention

[0001] Users of radio devices, for example in a public safety communication system, frequently receive audio messages from radio communications sent to other users, which are not necessarily relevant to all users or any particular user. A large number of such radio messages can sometimes overwhelm a user, causing them to "tune out" the audio messages and miss important information.

[0002] Furthermore, audio messages from multiple radio communications can sometimes overlap, and other competing audio signals, such as background noise, a car radio, or a conversation, may be present in the user's environment. Therefore, the user may have to struggle to identify important audio messages among the overlapping messages, or struggle to distinguish important audio messages from competing audio signals in their surroundings.

[0003] A user, such as a civil servant, often turns down the volume of a radio device to avoid being distracted from other tasks. The user then frequently turns the volume up when they believe they have heard something important, such as a call sign, a name, or a familiar voice. However, this approach is manually intensive and can increase the likelihood of a user missing important radio communications. There is already established technology that offers various improvements for different problems in this technical environment. Examples include WO 01 / 45386A2, US 2011 / 0237217A1, US 2011 / 0237287A1, WO 2014 / 058824A1, US 2011 / 0276326A1, and US 2013 / 0301813A1.

[0004] However, there is still a need for an improved procedure and system for providing alarms for radio communications. Brief description of the different views of the drawings

[0005] The accompanying illustrations, in which the same reference numerals denote identical or functionally similar elements across the different views and which, together with the following detailed description, are included in the specification and form part of the specification, serve to further illustrate embodiments of concepts comprising the claimed invention and to explain various principles and advantages of such embodiments. Fig. Figure 1 is a flowchart of a procedure carried out in a radio device for providing alarms for radio communications, according to some embodiments. Fig. Figure 2 is a flowchart of a procedure carried out at a radio transmitter to provide alarms for radio communications at a radio receiver, according to some embodiments. Fig. 3 is a flowchart of a procedure that occurs in a radio receiver in conjunction with the in Fig. The method shown in section 2 is carried out according to some embodiments. Fig. Figure 4 is a diagram of a device, such as a radio transmitter or receiver, according to some embodiments. Fig. Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for providing alarms for radio communications, according to some embodiments.

[0006] Those skilled in the art will understand that elements in the illustrations are shown for the sake of simplicity and clarity and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the illustrations may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve understanding of embodiments of the present invention.

[0007] The apparatus and process components have, where appropriate, been represented by conventional symbols in the drawings, which show only such specific details as are relevant to an understanding of the present invention, so as not to obscure the disclosure with details which are readily apparent to the person skilled in the art in the field who benefits from the description given herein. Detailed description of the invention

[0008] The aforementioned problem is solved according to the invention by a method having the features of claim 1 and by a system having the features of claim 12. According to certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a method for providing alarms for radio communications, comprising the following steps: One or more keywords are generated based on one or more context-dependent parameters associated with a radio device. An audio stream is received by the radio device via radio communications. Then, one or more of the keywords in the audio stream are detected. An alarm from the audio stream is then made available to the user of the radio device.

[0009] According to some embodiments, a radio device receives and / or stores one or more context-dependent parameters. These one or more context-dependent parameters may include parameters associated with the radio device, such as one of the following: the user of the radio device; a role of the user of the radio device; an assignment of the user of the radio device; a location of the radio device or the user of the radio device; equipment of the user of the radio device; a group affiliation of the user of the radio device; an expertise of the user of the radio device; or another radio device associated with the radio device, for example, a radio device of another user in the same group as that of the user of the radio device; a user of the other radio device.and / or a context associated with any of the preceding context-dependent parameters, such as a context associated with the other radio device or the user of the other radio device.

[0010] According to some embodiments, one or more context-dependent parameters are dynamic and updated in real time. In some embodiments, one or more of the context-dependent parameters are determined by context-sensitive technologies located in, or communicating with, the radio device. For example, the location of the radio device can be determined using a Global Positioning System (GPS), Wi-Fi, beacons, sensors, or proximity technologies. In some embodiments, one or more of the context-dependent parameters can be manually entered by the user.

[0011] Fig. Figure 1 is a flowchart of a method 100 performed on a radio device, such as a radio receiver, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the radio device is a "dual-monitor radio device" in which several channels can be monitored simultaneously at any time, for example, by a single loudspeaker. The method 100 comprises the following steps.

[0012] In step 105, a radio communication, including an audio stream, is received by a radio device. The radio communication is then decoded if necessary.

[0013] In step 110, a check is performed to determine whether alarms, for example, for important messages, are enabled on the radio device. If no alarms are enabled, the procedure proceeds to step 115, in which the audio stream is played through the radio device. If alarms are enabled, the procedure proceeds to step 120, in which the audio stream is buffered through the radio device. In some embodiments, an alarm setting can be overridden based on one or more context-dependent parameters. For example, a dynamic context associated with the user of the radio device, such as an event related to the user's role, could automatically enable alarms.For example, the user of the radio device may be a police officer, and the police officer may be assigned to an event, and the radio device may automatically release alerts so that the police officer does not miss any important audio signals regarding the event.

[0014] In step 125, the audio stream is compared with one or more keywords. According to some embodiments, the comparison is performed by dynamically generating an audio signal for each of the one or more keywords and comparing the audio signal of each of the one or more keywords with the audio stream. However, in alternative embodiments, the audio stream can be compared with one or more keywords using other techniques, for example, by converting the audio stream to text via speech-to-text and subsequently comparing the text with the one or more keywords.

[0015] If a keyword is detected at step 130, the process proceeds to steps 160, 170, and / or 180 to provide the user with an alert. The alert can then prompt the user to focus their attention on the audio stream.

[0016] For example, in step 160, an alarm for the audio stream is provided by modifying all or part of the audio stream to produce a modified audio stream. Modifying all or part of the audio stream can include the following steps: increasing the volume of all or part of the audio stream; applying a frequency shift to all or part of the audio stream; and adding one or more sound effects to the audio stream, such as dynamic filtering, spectral shaping, volume leveling, a beep, distortion, equalization, modulation, reverb, delay, and the like.

[0017] Modifying all or part of the audio stream can enable the user to more easily identify or understand a specific audio stream from a multitude of simultaneously played streams. In step 165, the modified audio stream is then played back through the wireless device.

[0018] In steps 170 and 180, an alarm is provided on the radio device, or a linked device, before or during playback of the audio stream. For example, the linked device may be an accessory worn by the user, such as glasses, a watch, a phone, a belt, or a vest; alternatively, the linked device may be part of a vehicle with which the user is in contact, such as a seat, a steering wheel, or a user interface linked to the vehicle, for example, a heads-up display, dashboard lighting, an entertainment center, a horn, headlights, door chimes, or reminder tones.

[0019] For example, in step 170, haptic feedback is synchronized with the playback of the audio stream. In step 175, haptic feedback is then generated on the wireless device, or the linked device, before or during the playback of the audio stream to alert the user. The haptic feedback can be, for example, a vibration, a tap, or compression, such as compression of the user's vest.

[0020] In yet another example, step 180 synchronizes visual and / or aural feedback with the playback of the audio stream. In step 185, the visual and / or aural feedback is then generated on the radio device, or the linked device, before or during playback of the audio stream. The visual feedback can be, for example, a light, such as a light-emitting diode (LED), a strobe light, or a dashboard indicator in a vehicle. Alternatively, the visual feedback can be, for example, an output on a display. If the visual feedback is a light, the light can be color-coded to indicate the nature or priority of the alarm. The aural feedback can be, for example, an audio effect, such as an alarm tone or a beep.

[0021] In some embodiments, the alarm can be configured based on one or more context-dependent parameters, such as one or more of the specified parameters or other context-dependent parameters. For example, the volume and / or frequency shift can be based on the user's hearing frequency response, or the alarm can be selected based on the level of ambient noise in real time. For example, the alarm can be configured to automatically increase its volume in a noisy environment and provide a haptic or visual indication in a quiet environment where increasing volume is discouraged, such as in a courthouse.

[0022] In step 130, if no keyword is detected, method 100 proceeds to step 135, in which the audio stream is played back by the radio device. In some embodiments, all or part of the audio stream is modified before playback, for example, to mask all or part of the audio stream. Thus, an alarm is provided to one audio stream, or to a plurality of audio streams received by the radio device, by modifying all or part of one audio stream instead of, or by modifying one of the plurality of audio streams.For example, all or parts of one or more other audio streams can be modified in the following ways: by reducing the volume of all or parts of one or more other audio streams; applying a frequency shift to all or parts of one or more other audio streams; distorting all or parts of one or more other audio streams; filtering all or parts of one or more other audio streams; shaping all or parts of one or more other audio streams; leveling all or parts of one or more other audio streams; and muting all or parts of one or more other audio streams. For example, filtering can include dynamic filtering, shaping can include spectral shaping, and leveling can include volume leveling.

[0023] Modifying all or parts of one or more other audio streams can enable the user to hear or understand one audio stream more clearly from the majority of audio streams, especially when the majority of audio streams are played simultaneously.

[0024] In some embodiments, the modifications to the audio stream and / or one or more other audio streams are based on one or more context-dependent parameters. For example, an optimal modification is determined based on the dynamic context of the user or their current environment.

[0025] The one or more keywords can be generated based on one or more context-dependent parameters. In preferred embodiments, the one or more keywords are dynamically generated in real time based on the one or more context-dependent parameters. In some embodiments, a keyword database is read, and the one or more keywords are generated based on the keyword database. For example, the keyword database can be a dynamic database, and the keywords in the keyword database can be updated in real time based on the one or more context-dependent parameters when the one or more context-dependent parameters change.In some embodiments, the keyword database identifies relationships between keywords and context-dependent parameters, and one or more keywords are generated based on these relationships. The keyword database can be maintained and stored locally on the radio device and / or accessed from a remote device where the keyword database is maintained. In some embodiments, a local keyword database on the radio device is synchronized with a remote keyword database on a remote device, for example, via radio communications, wired communications, or another means of communication. The one or more keywords can be keywords intended to be relevant or important to the user.

[0026] In some embodiments, when one or more keywords are detected in a plurality of audio streams on the radio device, each of the plurality of audio streams is assigned a priority and modified accordingly. For example, the priority can be determined from a priority assigned to each of the one or more context-dependent parameters and / or to each of the one or more keywords, or a combination thereof.

[0027] According to certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a method for providing alarms for radio communications, comprising the following steps. One or more keywords are generated based on one or more context-dependent parameters associated with a radio receiver. An audio stream to be transmitted to the radio receiver is read from the radio transmitter. One or more of the keywords are then detected in the audio stream. The audio stream, with one or more modifications or additions, is then transmitted to the radio receiver to provide an audio stream alarm to a user of the radio receiver.

[0028] Fig. Figure 2 is a flowchart of a method 200 performed at a radio transmitter to provide alarms for radio communications to a radio receiver, according to some embodiments. In preferred embodiments, the radio transmitter receives and / or stores one or more context-dependent parameters, for example, the parameter(s) referenced to Fig. The described context-dependent parameter is described in section 1. Procedure 200 comprises the following steps.

[0029] In step 205, an audio stream is read from a radio transmitter. The audio stream is to be transmitted to a radio receiver. In some embodiments, the audio stream is received by the radio transmitter and forwarded to the radio receiver. For example, the radio transmitter is an amplifier and receives the audio stream from another radio transmitter. In some embodiments, the audio stream is input into the radio transmitter, for example, via a microphone, a computer, or another device.

[0030] In step 210, a check is performed to determine whether alarms are enabled for the radio receiver. If no alarms are enabled, the procedure proceeds to step 215, in which the audio stream is transmitted to the radio receiver. If alarms are enabled, the procedure proceeds to step 220, in which the audio stream is buffered. In some embodiments, the alarm setting can be overridden based on one or more context-dependent parameters. For example, a dynamic context associated with the user of the radio device, such as an event related to the user's role, can automatically enable alarms.

[0031] In step 225, the audio stream is compared with one or more keywords. In some embodiments, the comparison is performed by dynamically generating an audio signal for each of the keywords and then comparing that audio signal with the audio stream. However, in alternative embodiments, the audio stream can be compared with the keywords using other techniques, for example, by converting the audio stream to text via speech-to-text and then comparing the text with the keywords.

[0032] The one or more keywords can be generated based on one or more context-dependent parameters. In preferred embodiments, the one or more keywords are dynamically generated in real time based on the one or more context-dependent parameters. In some embodiments, a keyword database is read, and the one or more keywords are generated based on the keyword database. For example, the keyword database can be a dynamic database, and the keywords in the keyword database can be updated in real time based on the one or more context-dependent parameters when the one or more context-dependent parameters change.In some embodiments, the keyword database identifies relationships between keywords and context-dependent parameters, and one or more keywords are generated based on these relationships. The keyword database can be maintained and stored locally on the radio transmitter and / or accessed from a remote device, such as the radio device of Method 100 or a base station where the keyword database is maintained. In some embodiments, a local keyword database on the radio transmitter is synchronized with a remote keyword database on a remote device, for example, via radio communications, wired communications, or another means of communication.The one or more keywords can be keywords that are intended to be relevant or important to the user.

[0033] In step 230, if no keyword is detected, the procedure proceeds to step 215, in which the audio stream is transmitted to the radio receiver. In step 230, if one or more keywords are detected, the procedure proceeds to steps 235 and 240, in which one or more modifications or additions are made to the audio stream to provide an audio stream alert to the radio receiver user. In step 245, the audio stream is then transmitted to the radio receiver with the one or more modifications or additions.

[0034] In some embodiments, in step 230, a priority can be assigned to the audio stream based on one or more keywords or the associated context-dependent parameters. A priority can also be manually assigned to the audio stream. In some embodiments, the modifications or additions made in steps 235 and 240 are based on or include the priority.

[0035] In some embodiments, in step 235, a tag is added to the audio stream to instruct the radio receiver to provide an alarm and / or priority for the audio stream. The tag can be transmitted with the audio stream, or as part of the audio stream, in step 245 to instruct the radio receiver to provide an alarm and / or priority for the audio stream. In some embodiments, the tag includes the priority.

[0036] In some embodiments, in step 240, an alarm is provided by modifying all or part of the audio stream to create a modified audio stream. For example, all or part of the audio stream is modified by increasing the volume of all or part of the audio stream, by applying a frequency shift to all or part of the audio stream, and / or by adding one or more sound effects to the audio stream. In some embodiments, the modification or additions can be configured based on one or more context-dependent parameters, such as one or more of the one or more context-dependent parameters or one or more other context-dependent parameters, as configured in step 160 of method 100.

[0037] Fig. 3 is a flowchart of a procedure 260, which is used in conjunction with a radio receiver in the Fig. The procedures shown in section 2 are carried out according to some embodiments. For example, procedure 260 can be provided in the radio receiver of procedure 100. Procedure 260 comprises the following steps.

[0038] In step 265, a radio communication, including an audio stream, is received by the radio receiver. The radio communication is decoded if necessary.

[0039] Step 267 performs a check to determine if the radio communication includes a tag. If no tag is present, the procedure proceeds to step 295, in which the audio stream is played back through the radio receiver. If a tag is present, the procedure proceeds to steps 270 and / or 280 to provide an alarm on the radio receiver, or a linked device, before or during the playback of the audio stream at step 290.For example, the linked device may be an accessory worn by the user, such as glasses, a watch, a telephone, a belt or a vest; or a part of a vehicle that is in contact with the user, such as a seat, a steering wheel or a user interface linked to the vehicle, for example a heads-up display, dashboard lighting, an entertainment center, a horn, headlights, door tones or reminder tones.

[0040] In step 270, haptic feedback is synchronized with the playback of the audio stream in step 295. In step 275, the haptic feedback is then generated on the radio receiver, or the linked device, before or during playback of the audio stream to alert the user. The haptic feedback can be, for example, a vibration, a tap, or compression, such as compression of the user's vest.

[0041] In step 280, visual and / or aural feedback is synchronized with the playback of the audio stream in step 295. In step 285, the visual and / or aural feedback is then generated on the radio receiver, or the linked device, before or during playback of the audio stream. The visual feedback can be, for example, a light, such as an LED, a strobe light, or a dashboard indicator in a vehicle, or it can be, for example, an output on a display. If the visual feedback is a light, the light can be color-coded to indicate the nature or priority of the alarm. The aural feedback can be, for example, an audio effect, such as an alarm or beep.

[0042] Procedure 260 may additionally include further functions of Procedure 100. For example, Procedure 260 may include: a check to determine whether alarms are enabled on the radio receiver, and / or a modification of all or part of the audio streams, or one or more other audio streams, being played on the radio receiver to provide an alarm. For example, if multiple audio streams are being played simultaneously on the radio receiver, the radio receiver may modify all or part of one or more of the multiple audio streams to emphasize or mask all or part of the audio streams based on their priority.

[0043] According to certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a system for providing alarms via radio communications. The system comprises a radio transmitter for transmitting an audio stream and a radio receiver for receiving the audio stream. The system further comprises a processor in the radio transmitter or the radio receiver and a memory coupled to the processor.

[0044] Fig. Figure 4 is a diagram of a device 300 according to some embodiments. The device 300 can be a radio transmitter or the radio receiver mentioned above. The device 300 comprises a processor 320 and a memory 330 coupled to the processor 320. The memory 330 comprises the instruction code 335 for performing the following steps: generating one or more keywords based on one or more context-dependent parameters associated with the radio receiver; reading an audio stream; detecting one or more of the keywords in the audio stream; and providing an alarm for the audio stream to the user of the radio receiver. In some embodiments, the memory 330 includes an instruction code for performing the steps of method 100, method 200, and / or method 260.

[0045] The processor 320 processes the computer-readable program code components stored in the memory 330 and implements various procedures and functions of the radio receiver 100, as described herein.

[0046] Memory 330 comprises a data memory 340. Data memory 340 contains data, such as one or more context-dependent parameters and the keyword database, which identifies links between keywords and context-dependent parameters. It is clear to those skilled in the art that a single memory, such as memory 330, can be used to store both dynamic and static data.

[0047] The structure of the 330 memory is well known to those skilled in the field and may include: A Basic Input / Output System (BIOS) stored in a read-only memory (ROM), and one or more program modules, such as operating systems, application programs and program data, stored in a read / write memory (RAM).

[0048] One or more interfaces 310 are connected to the processor 320. The one or more interfaces 310 comprise, for example, an antenna for transmitting or receiving one or more radio communications, and one or more other communication devices for receiving, for example, one or more context-dependent parameters. In some embodiments where the device is a radio receiver, the one or more context-dependent parameters are received at the radio receiver from one or more connected devices. In some embodiments where the device is a radio transmitter, radio communications are received at an antenna of the device 300 for transmission by the same or a different antenna of the device 300.

[0049] Fig.Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating a method 400 for providing alarms for radio communications, according to some embodiments.

[0050] Block 405 generates one or more keywords based on one or more context-dependent parameters associated with the radio device. For example, if a user of the radio device is a police officer, one of the keywords might be "shot fired," and another keyword might refer to the officer's current location.

[0051] Block 410 involves receiving an audio stream via radio communication at a radio device. For example, the radio device could be that of a public official, such as a police officer, and the audio stream could be received by a radio transmitter, such as another radio device or a base station.

[0052] Block 415 detects one or more of the following keywords in the audio stream. For example, the audio stream might contain the words "shot fired" and a location near the current location of the police officer.

[0053] Block 420 provides an audio stream alert to the radio operator. For example, the alert can identify to the police officer that the audio stream is important and / or highlight one or more detected keywords so that the officer does not miss them. This helps the officer to pay attention to and distinguish the audio stream from other, less important audio streams.

[0054] The one or more context-dependent parameters mentioned herein may include, for example: personal context-dependent parameters, vehicle-related context-dependent parameters, event-related context-dependent parameters, and / or environment-related context-dependent parameters. The context-dependent parameters can be entered into the radio device automatically or manually, and the keyword database can be reconfigured automatically or manually. The context-dependent parameters can be detected by linked sensors, image processing, and audio technologies, which are then automatically and dynamically updated in real time in the keyword database.

[0055] Personal context-dependent parameters may include, for example: parameters relating to the user, such as a weapon being used / unloaded, the user's indoor / outdoor location, proximity to a dangerous entity, combat, personal pursuit / run, automatic man-down function, drawn weapon, drawn handcuffs or drawn pepper spray, and / or emergency button detection. Other personal context-dependent parameters relating to the user may include: the user's job role, job assignment, group affiliation, expertise, gender, religion, color, size, biophysical status, emotional status, or health condition; whether the user is on or off duty; languages ​​spoken or understood by the user; and equipment and / or accessories associated with the user.

[0056] Vehicle-related context-dependent parameters may include, for example: vehicle-related parameters linked to the radio device or the user, such as vehicle tracking, a vehicle moving without a responder, the vehicle's outdoor location, opening / closing a door / trunk with / without the user nearby, tampering with the vehicle, a dog released from the vehicle, the vehicle occupants, the occupancy of the passenger seat, the vehicle status, a weapon removed from the vehicle, proximity to other vehicles, proximity to landmarks and events of interest, and / or accessories available in the vehicle.

[0057] Context-dependent parameters relating to an event may include, for example: parameters that relate to an event, such as the threat level of an event, the type of event, groups that are assigned to an event, and / or the threat level of an event at a location.

[0058] Context-dependent parameters relating to the environment may include, for example: parameters relating to the environment, such as detection of a gunshot, detection of an explosion, detection of radiation, detection of a toxic gas, detection of glass breakage, aggression, person of interest nearby, building access control data, weather, ambient noise, a vehicle of interest nearby and / or an object of interest nearby.

[0059] Specific embodiments have been described in the preceding specification. However, it is clear to those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention, as set out in the claims below. Accordingly, the specification and the figures are to be understood in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and all such modifications are intended to be in keeping with the spirit of the present teachings.

[0060] The benefits, advantages, problem solutions, and any conceivable element that leads to or enhances any benefit, advantage, or solution shall not be construed as critical, necessary, or essential features or elements of any claim or all claims. The invention is defined exclusively by the attached claims, including any amendment made during the pendency of the present application and all equivalents of such claims as published.

[0061] The terms "includes," "comprising," "has," "having," "include," "containing," "containing," or any variation thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, procedure, article, or device that includes, has, includes, or contains a list of elements may not only include such elements but may also include other elements not expressly listed or inherent in such processes, procedures, articles, or devices. An element that continues with "includes... a," "has... a," "includes... a," or "contains... a" does not, without further stipulations, exclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, procedure, article, or device that the element includes, has, includes, or contains. The terms "a" and "a" are defined as one or more unless explicitly stated otherwise herein.The term "coupled," as used herein, is defined as "connected," although not necessarily directly and not necessarily mechanically. A device or structure that is "configured" in a particular way is configured at least in that way, but may also be configured in at least one other way not listed.

[0062] It is desired that some embodiments include one or more generic or specialized processors (or “processing devices”), such as microprocessors, digital signal processors, custom processors and freely programmable field-gate arrays (FPGAs) and unique stored program instructions (comprising both software and firmware) that control the one or more processors to implement, in conjunction with certain non-processor circuitry, some, most or all of the functions of the method and / or device described herein.Alternatively, some or all functions can be implemented by a state machine that has no stored program instructions, or in one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) where each function, or some combinations of certain functions, are implemented as custom logic. Naturally, a combination of the two approaches can be used.

[0063] Furthermore, an embodiment can be implemented as a computer-readable storage medium containing computer-readable code stored thereon for programming a computer (which, for example, includes a processor) to perform a method described and claimed herein. Examples of such computer-readable storage media include, but are not limited to: a hard disk, a CD-ROM, an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, a ROM (read-only memory), a PROM (programmable read memory), an EPROM (erasable programmable read memory), an EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read memory), and flash memory.Furthermore, it can be expected that a person skilled in the art, regardless of possible considerable effort and a large selection of designs, which is justified, for example, by available time, current technology and economic considerations, guided by the concepts and principles disclosed herein, will be able to produce such software instructions, programs and ICs with minimal experimental effort.

[0064] The abstract of the disclosure is provided to allow the reader to quickly grasp the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it is not to be used to interpret or limit the spirit or meaning of the claims. Furthermore, it is clear from the preceding detailed description that various features in different embodiments are grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This method of disclosure should not be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly stated in each claim. Rather, as is evident from the following claims, an inventive subject matter is present in fewer than all the features of any single disclosed embodiment.Thus, the following claims are integrated into the detailed description, with each claim standing alone as a separately claimed subject matter.

Claims

[1] Method for providing alarms for the playback of received radio communications, the method comprising: Entertainment, by means of a radio device for playing back received audio streams to a user, a keyword database of a playback alarm of a received audio stream with one or more first keywords for matching with second keywords detected in a particular received audio stream, which are used to identify that the particular received audio stream is to be played back to the user of the radio device accompanied by an audio alarm when a match is found; Detection by the radio device of a change in context-dependent parameters associated with the radio device, and in response to the detection of the change in context-dependent parameters associated with the radio device, automatic updating of the keyword database of a playback alarm of a received audio stream, based on the detected change in the context-dependent parameters associated with the radio device, to include an additional first keyword that was not previously included in the one or more first keywords, or a modified first keyword of the one or more keywords, wherein the change in the context-dependent parameters includes one of the following: a change in the personal context-dependent parameters associated with the user of the radio device, a change in vehicle-related context-dependent parameters,which are linked to a vehicle that is linked to the user of the radio device, a change to context-dependent parameters relating to an event that is linked to an event that is linked to the user of the radio device, or a change to environment-related context-dependent parameters that are linked to the user of the radio device; , subsequent reception, via radio communications, of a first specific received audio stream for playback by a user at the radio device; Detection, by the radio device, of a match between a specific second keyword in the first specific received audio stream and the additional first keyword in the database of a playback alert of a received audio stream, or the modified first keyword in the keyword database of a playback alert of a received audio stream; and one of: prior to the subsequent playback of the first specifically received audio stream for the user, causing the radio device to provide an alarm for the first specifically received audio stream, and subsequently playing, by the radio device, the first specifically received audio stream for the user; and During playback, the radio device will cause the user to receive an alarm for the first specific audio stream received. [2] Method according to claim 1, wherein the detected change in context-dependent parameters is the change in personal context-dependent parameters and comprises one or more of the following: a detected change in the user of the radio device; a detected change in a role of the user of the radio device; a detected change in an assignment of the user of the radio device; a detected change in the equipment of the user of the radio device; a detected change in the location of the user of the radio device; a detected change in a user's group affiliation of the radio device; and a detected change in an expertise of the user of the radio device. [3] Method according to claim 1, wherein one or more context-dependent parameters are dynamic and are updated in real time. [4] Method according to claim 1, wherein causing the alarm to be provided for the first specified received audio stream comprises modifying all or parts of the one or more specified received audio streams for playback by the user, which are to be played on the radio device substantially simultaneously with the first specified received audio stream. [5] Method according to claim 4, wherein the modification comprises the whole or parts of one or more other specified received audio streams: Reduction of the volume of all or parts of one or more other specific received audio streams; Application of a frequency shift to all or parts of one or more other specific received audio streams; Distortion of all or parts of one or more other specific received audio streams; Filtering of all or parts of one or more other specific received audio streams; Shaping the entirety or parts of one or more other specific received audio streams; Leveling of all or parts of one or more other specific received audio streams; and / or Muting all or parts of one or more other specific received audio streams. [6] Method according to claim 1, wherein causing the alarm to be provided for the first specified received audio stream comprises providing one or more of the following, on the radio device or a linked device, prior to a subsequent playback of the first specified received audio stream or during the playback of the first specified received audio stream: additional audio effects to indicate the importance of the first specific audio stream received; visual feedback to indicate the significance of the first specific audio stream received; and / or Haptic feedback to indicate the significance of the first specific audio stream received. [7] Method according to claim 1, wherein the detected change in context-dependent parameters is the change in context-dependent parameters relating to a vehicle and includes one or more of the following: a detected change in the tracking status of the vehicle linked to the user of the radio device; a detected change in the location of the vehicle linked to the user of the radio device; a detected change in the occupants of the vehicle linked to the user of the radio device; a detected release of a dog from the vehicle linked to the user of the radio device; a detected removal of a weapon from the vehicle linked to the user of the radio device; a detected change in the proximity of the vehicle linked to the user of the radio device in relation to other vehicles; and a detected change in the proximity of the vehicle linked to the user of the radio device with respect to landmarks of interest. [8] Method according to claim 1, wherein the detected change in context-dependent parameters is the change in context-dependent parameters of an event and includes one or more of the following: a detected change in the threat situation of an event associated with the user of the radio device; a detected change in the event type of the event associated with the user of the radio device; and a detected change in groups associated with the event linked to the user of the radio device. [9] Method according to claim 1, wherein the detected change in context-dependent parameters is the change in context-dependent parameters of the environment and includes one or more of the following: a detected shot in an environment linked to the user of the radio device; a detected explosion in an environment associated with the user of the radio device; a detected radiation in an environment associated with the user of the radio device; a detected toxic gas in an environment associated with the user of the radio device; a detected person of interest in an environment associated with the user of the radio device; a detected ambient noise in an environment associated with the user of the radio device; and a detected weather in an environment linked to the user of the radio device. [10] Method according to claim 1, wherein the detected change in context-dependent parameters is detected by the radio device via one or more communicatively coupled sensors. [11] Method according to claim 1, wherein the automatic updating of the received audio stream playback alarm keyword database based on the detected change in context-dependent parameters associated with the radio device comprises accessing a database that maps context-dependent parameters to associated keywords, wherein the change in context-dependent parameters associated with the radio device is used to identify the one additional first keyword that was not previously included in the one or more first keywords and the modified first keyword of the one or more first keywords. [12] System for providing alarms for playing back received radio communications, the system comprising: a radio receiver device for receiving audio streams and for playing back the received audio stream to a user of the radio receiver device; a processor, in the radio receiver device; and a memory coupled to the processor, wherein the memory comprises an instruction code which, when executed by the processor, performs a set of functions comprising: Maintaining a keyword database of a playback alarm of a received audio stream with one or more first keywords for matching with second keywords detected in a particular received audio stream, which are used to identify that the particular received audio stream should be played back to the user of the radio device accompanied by an audio alarm when a match is found; Detection of a change in context-dependent parameters associated with the radio receiver device, and in response to the detection of the change in context-dependent parameters associated with the radio receiver device, automatic updating of the keyword database of a playback alarm of a received audio stream, based on the detected change in the context-dependent parameters associated with the radio receiver device, to include an additional first keyword that was not previously included in one or more first keywords, or a modified first keyword of one or more keywords, wherein the change in the context-dependent parameters includes one of the following: a change in the personal context-dependent parameters associated with the user of the radio device, a change in vehicle-related context-dependent parameters associated with a vehicle,that is linked to the user of the radio device, a change to context-dependent parameters relating to an event that is linked to the user of the radio device, or a change to context-dependent parameters relating to the environment that are linked to the user of the radio device; subsequent reception of a first specific received audio stream for playback by a user; Detection of a match between a specific second keyword in the first specific received audio stream and the additional first keyword in the keyword database of a playback alert of a received audio stream, or the modified first keyword in the keyword database of a playback alert of a received audio stream; and one of: To cause an alarm to be made available to a user of the radio receiver for the first specific audio stream received by the radio receiver, prior to the subsequent playback of the first specific audio stream received by the radio receiver for the user of the radio receiver; and To cause an alarm to be provided to a user of the radio receiver device for the first specified audio stream received at the radio receiver device, while the first specified audio stream received at the radio receiver device is being played back to a user of the radio receiver device. [13] System according to claim 12, wherein the detected change in context-dependent parameters is the change in personal context-dependent parameters and comprises one or more of the following: a detected change in the user of the radio receiver; a detected change in a role of the user of the radio receiver; a detected change in an assignment of the user of the radio receiver; a detected change in the equipment of the user of the radio receiver; a detected change in the location of the user of the radio device; a detected change in the group membership of the radio receiver user; and a detected change in the expertise of the user of the radio receiver. [14] System according to claim 12, wherein one or more context-dependent parameters are dynamic and are updated in real time. [15] System according to claim 12, wherein the instruction code for causing an alarm to be provided for the first specified received audio stream comprises an instruction code for providing one or more of the following on the radio receiver device, or an associated device, before or during the playback of the first specified received audio stream: additional audio effects to emphasize the importance of the first specific audio stream received; visual feedback to indicate the significance of the first specific audio stream received; and / or Haptic feedback to indicate the significance of the first specific audio stream received.

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