Arrangement and method for generating a multiple part audio playback

Abstract

The present invention relates to an arrangement for outputting multiple part audio play-back. The arrangement comprises a plurality of part units (2.1, 2.2, 2.3,...), each part unit comprising a unique identification element (3) attributable to a specific part in an audio playback (A.1, A.2, A.3,...) and each part unit (2.1, 2.2, 2.3,...) having a geometric form (4.1, 4.2, 4.3,...). It also comprises the base unit (5) of the placement area for receiving at least one part unit. It also comprises the sensing unit (7.1, 7.2,...) arranged in the base unit and adapted to detect and read the unique identification element(s) of any one of the plurality of part units. It also comprises a processing unit (8) adapted to attribute a unique identification element of any one of the plurality of part units to a specific part of a multiple part audio playback and an output unit for generating a multiple part audio playback reflective of the part units detected. The present invention also relates to a method and a set of parts accordingly.

Description

[0001] ARRANGEMENT AND METHOD FOR GENERATING A MULTIPLE PART AUDIO PLAYBACK

[0002] The present invention concerns an arrangement for outputting a multiple part audio playback as well as a method for generating a multiple part audio playback within such an arrangement and a set of parts comprising a plurality of said arrangements for generating a multiple part audio playback like a grand orchestra, all according to the preambles of the independent claims.

[0003] Technological background

[0004] Playback devices are well-known in the art and mostly function as entertainment tools. Some playback devices provide means for haptically controlling a playback, such as by placing three-dimensional figures which are indictive or associated with a type of content that is output from the device and are equipped with an identification tag, such as most frequently an RFID tag. The tags are brought into a sensor range of the device thereby starting or interrupting an output.

[0005] Such devices are shown and described for example in WO20151 / 04222A1 (Boxine GmbH). This document shows a device for playing back music and sound that is operated by means of a sensor that can detect an RFID tagged figurine within a detection range.

[0006] The interactivity of these devices is limited to a simple “on / off” control of the audio playback, though.

[0007] As of late, interest has arisen to enrich these types of devices with further, educationally valuable functions designed to address the children’s senses in a broader manner and, at the same time, to teach skills and sharpen the child’s understanding for complex processes, such as, for instance, computer programming and / or composition of music.

[0008] US 6’353’168 B1 (Neurosmith LLC) discloses in this regard an educational musical instrument for children. It is adapted to play musical sequences triggered by cuboid blocks being placed in a plurality of receiving portions. The cuboid blocks have different faces, each of which is adapted to interact with a specific receiving portion. The musical sequence played by the device is dependent on the face of the cube engaged with the receiving portion, and different cubes preferably cause different musical sequences to be played. Accordingly, the musical device can play numerous different musical sequences depending on the cube engaged with a receiving portion and the orientation of the cube within the receiving portion. The music itself can be stored on interchangeable cartridges.

[0009] This set is very adequate for small children, where form recognition is an important step in development. It is hardly upscaleable in complexity, though, and ultimately not so suitable for training musical awareness, as the output is limited to sequentially outputting single part tracks.

[0010] For musical education, it has been found advantageous to be exposed to music and rhythm from an early age. Besides developing an ear for music and sound, the arrangement and rearrangement of musical tones and sound effects provide an integrative and intuitive way for approaching children of all ages to creative musical expression. A very fast way to learn how to compose is to focus on small fragments of music and learn to change and rearrange those fragments in specific ways.

[0011] There is, therefore, a need to provide educational devices that are adapted to teaching and exploring musical composition in a playful and entertaining way.

[0012] Summary of the invention

[0013] It is an object of the present invention to provide an arrangement for outputting a multiple part audio playback and a respective method as initially defined that overcomes at least one disadvantage of the state of the art.

[0014] It is a particular object of the present invention to provide such an arrangement and method that is accessible and entertaining for children as well as for adults and that provides a rewarding interactive stimulus for using the arrangement and method of the present invention. In a further particular object, the arrangement and method should provide such a device that has a large number of modular possibilities.

[0015] At least one of these objects has been solved by an arrangement and a method according to the characterizing portions of the independent claims.

[0016] One aspect of the present invention is an arrangement for outputting multiple part audio playback. The arrangement comprises a plurality of part units, each part unit comprising a unique identification element attributable to a specific part in an audio playback. Each part unit also has a geometric form.

[0017] The arrangement further comprises a base unit with a placement area for receiving at least one part unit. In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the placement area is formed at least in part with an essentially complementary geometric form for receiving a corresponding geometric form of the at least one part unit. In particular, for a specific part unit it is meant to receive.

[0018] The arrangement further comprises a sensing unit arranged in the base unit and adapted to detect and read the unique identification element of any one of the plurality of part units.

[0019] The arrangement further comprises a processing unit adapted to attribute the unique identification element detected by the sensing unit to a specific part of a multiple part audio playback.

[0020] The arrangement further comprises an output unit for generating a multiple part audio playback reflective of the part unit detected.

[0021] In the context of the present invention, a multiple part audio playback can be understood as an audio playback that comprises a plurality of sub-tracks that, for instance, can be output simultaneously or in sequence. In a particular example of the present invention, the multiple part audio playback can comprise a variety of musical instruments or instrument groups recorded as an audio playback of a particular music piece. In this example, a multiple part audio playback can consist of a music piece that is played by, for instance, two or more groups of musical instruments. For the sake of the present example, a piece played with a guitar and two trumpets can be considered a multiple part audio playback. In this example, the multiple part audio playback can comprise tracks for the guitar and tracks for the trumpets. Each of these tracks can be output separately or simultaneously with each other. Additionally, and / or alternatively, the tracks can be output in sequence to each other. In this example, the guitar track could comprise a plurality of guitar tracks numbered 1 to 10, for instance, which follow a particular song sequence. Likewise, the two trumpets can be grouped together on one track and also comprise a series of 1 to 10 consecutive tracks of the same music piece. With the solution of the present invention, it becomes possible to rearrange or isolate different elements of a multiple part audio playback to provide an early and interactive experience with composing music.

[0022] In a particular embodiment, the generating of a multiple part audio playback reflective of the part unit detected comprises a recording of the multiple part audio playback reflective of the part unit(s) detected. This recording can result in an output file that can be output at a later time point and can comprise the step of at least temporarily saving an output file unto a memory unit.

[0023] In a particular embodiment of the present invention multiple part audio playback comprises a plurality of single parts. The single parts can be musical loops, i.e. repeating sections of sound material. In a particularly preferred embodiment, each part unit is attributable to a specific single part. In practice, once a specific part unit is detected by means of its unique identification element a musical loop output can be initiated reflective of said specific part. The musical loop can be output indefinitely, i.e. by seamlessly repeating. A plurality of part units placed on the placement area can then result in a plurality of musical loops being output simultaneously, each seamlessly repeating, and thereby result in a multiple part audio playback according to the present invention.

[0024] In a particular embodiment, the processing unit is adapted to arrange a plurality of single parts into the multiple part audio playback. This step can further comprise the synchronization of the single parts with respect to each other such as to generate a meaningful multiple part audio playback. In practice this can be performed by the processing units after attributing a unique identification element(s) of any one of the plurality of part units to a specific part of a multiple part audio playback and synchronizing the playback of this single part unit with any one or plurality of single part units already identified. In a further particular embodiment, the single part comprises tempo markings suitable for use by the processing unit in synchronizing the playback of a single part with a plurality of single parts and thus generating a multiple part audio playback.

[0025] In an even further particular embodiment, the processing unit is adapted to categorize a single part unit such as to synchronize it with the plurality of single part units already identified. In a preferred embodiment, this categorization is aided by machine learning algorithms, for instance by machine learning algorithms adapted at recognizing an audio playback.

[0026] In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the single parts are stored in a file format, preferably a file format selected from the group consisting of WAV, MP3, AAC, M4A, FLAG, AIFF, WMA or any other suitable audio file format, selected according to the needs of the skilled artisan.

[0027] In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the part units are designed as tokens. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the tokens have a pedestal that allows for the tokens to be placed on a placement area.

[0028] In a further particularly preferred embodiment, the part units have a plurality of geometric forms, a first geometric form that is somehow reflective of the specific part of a multiple part audio playback the part unit codes for, and / or a second geometric form that is adapted to fit a corresponding, preferably at least in part essentially complementary geometric form of the placement area.

[0029] In a particular embodiment, the placement area is an essentially flat surface arranged on the base unit. Particularly preferred, the placement area comprises markings and / or signaling elements facilitating the correct placement of any one of the part units and / or mode unit(s).

[0030] In a particular embodiment, a plurality of sensing units is arranged in the base unit. The plurality of sensing units can be adapted to detect the presence of any one part unit in a specific location of the placement area. In this example, for instance, the placement area can be sub-divided into a series of sub-areas that each are adapted at receiving at least one part unit. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the processing unit is adapted to detect and identify from which one of the sensing units a particular unique identification element has been detected. This can be achieved, for instance, by adding a specific sensor element and / or specific code fragment to the unique identification element which the processing unit can then attribute to the originating specific sensing unit.

[0031] This arrangement makes it possible to alter the playback output not only by identifying the specific token, i.e. part unit, but also by identifying a sub-area of the placement area the token was placed in. In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the placement area comprises specific sub-areas which are attributed to a mode of sound. The mode of sound could be used by the processing unit to alter the output of the specific part of the multiple part audio playback for a specific unique identification element, for instance by playing it faster, slower, and / or higher and / or by changing the harmony, melody, rhythm, etc.

[0032] In a particular embodiment, the arrangement further comprises at least one mode unit comprising a unique identification element attributable to a specific mode in an audio playback.

[0033] By means of such a mode unit, it is possible to not only alter and rearrange the sequence of specific parts of a multiple part audio playback by placement and / or removal of any one of the plurality of part units, but also to alter and arrange a mode, the latter reflective of a particular type of mode unit and its unique identification element.

[0034] This increases the possibilities of interacting with the output manifold. One advantage of making the mode unit a separate unit lies therein, that it can be used to increase the complexity of the arrangement for educational purposes. Without being bound to this theory, it can be helpful to first introduce the arrangement with a limited, easily manageable number of part units, that can in a first play step be used to experiment with a multiple part audio playback by arranging and rearranging the part units in a manageable framework. Complexity can then be increased stepwise by adding further part units and / or by providing access to one or more mode unit(s) that are adapted at providing a specific mode to the audio playback. This enables a gradual learning experience that is very rewarding and ensures that the arrangement of the present invention can be used for a large variety of ages and skill levels.

[0035] In a particular embodiment of the present invention, each mode unit has a geometric form. The placement area can be adapted to receiving the at least one mode unit. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the placement area is formed as being at least in part complementary to the said geometric form of the mode unit to receive the at least one mode unit in a predefined area. One of the advantages of having essentially complementary geometric forms in the placement area is that it adds a further educational function. The part units and / or mode units can come equipped with a variety of different geometric forms on their pedestals that need to be attributed to a correct complementary geometric form in the placement area. This can add a further visual and spatial thinking component.

[0036] Additionally and / or alternatively, the respective geometric forms can be used to distinguish between sub-areas in the placement area where part units can be arranged and sub-areas in the placement area where mode units can be arranged. One further practical advantage of having these essentially complementary geometric forms for receiving the at least one mode unit can be that it ensures that a respective sensor unit is nearby and / or assists in defining a detection area where a safe and stringent detection by a sensing unit can be ensured.

[0037] One further advantage which can be achieved, for instance by making the essentially complementary geometric form a recess, is that it provides a further element of stability when the part unit is placed. The essentially complementary geometric form in and / or on the placement area and the geometric forms of the part units and / or mode units can be arranged, for instance, such as to enter an essentially form fit connection when placed.

[0038] In an additional and / or alternative embodiment, the placement area comprises one or more holding means for engaging with a corresponding holding means in any one of the part units and / or mode units. Such holding means can, for instance, be magnets and / or Velcro™ like designs that provide a releasable connection between these two parts and can help with preventing the part units and / or mode units from accidentally being shifted or falling from the placement area.

[0039] In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the base unit has a further control means. In its most basic embodiment, such a control means can be a simple on / off switch for switching the electronic components of the base unit on or off. In an additional and / or alternative embodiment, the control elements can comprise a capacitive sensor that enables to give commands by touch to the processing unit by means of a capacitive sensing surface.

[0040] Alternative and / or additional control elements can, for instance, be volume controls that allow the increase or reduction of an audio output volume.

[0041] In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the mode unit is adapted to control any one of the following with respect to an output, selected from the group consisting of: voicing, melody, rhythm, volume, tempo and / or tonality.

[0042] In a further particular embodiment, it is understood that all of the above from the group of modes the mode unit is adapted to control, different variations can exist. In a particular example, for instance, a plurality of mode units can each be adapted to control a particular type of tonality. In practice, that would mean that if, for instance, a specific part unit is in the sensing unit range and, therefore, a specific part is output reflective of this specific part unit, a default can be used as a playback output. The mode unit can then, for instance, be used to alter this default and, with respect to the example of tonality, by conceptual changes made to the tone such as, for instance, by altering the tonality into “C MAJOR” or “G MAJOR”, etc, each alteration being made possible by a distinct type of mode unit.

[0043] In a particular embodiment, the mode unit is adapted to control a bar or measure with respect to an output.

[0044] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the mode unit is adapted to control the bar or measure of an output for a plurality of single parts, e.g. the multiple part audio playback or individually for anyone single part that is being output. In practice, a control of the bar or measure could for instance mean that a particular mode unit has information that instructs the processing unit to modify an output, for instance to be output as a three- quarter timed output.

[0045] Alternatively and / or additionally, the mode unit can be adapted to control the beat of a specific output in a similar manner. In practice this could be implemented with a unique identification element of the specific mode unit attributable to a specific mode of an audio playback, which is for instance a setting defining the beats per second of a multiple part audio playback and / or of a single part of a multiple part audio playback.

[0046] Alternatively, and / or additionally, the mode unit can be adapted to control the specific mode in an audio playback, whereby the specific mode comprises a function selected from the group consisting of: stop playback, start playback, repeat playback, end repeat playback, set cue (entrance and start of loops and / or single parts), record and / or end record. The specific modes relating to terminating a particular previously initiated mode, such as end repeat playback or end record can, of course, also be controlled by removing the mode unit adapted to control one of the specific modes record and repeat playback from the placement area.

[0047] The skilled artisan readily understands that an almost limitless number of different tonality modes can be used to control the output of the specific part and is only subject to the required complexity of the embodied arrangement in question. It is also conceivable to provide different tonalities as a means of progressing in a learning schedule, such as to be initially provided with a limited set of mode units and part units and a specific adapted tutorial to experiment with. This preselection can be expanded later by increasing complexity and difficulty through the addition of further part units and / or mode units.

[0048] In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the mode unit is adapted to define a musical composition of the multiple part audio playback. In practice this could be implemented for instance by the mode unit defining a particular piece of music to be output, such as for instance a specific Bach-sonata. The part units still provide output attributable to specific parts and / or music instruments, but the nature of the output is defined by the identification of the specific musical composition the mode unit codes for. In practice, the processing unit could attribute specific musical parts to the part units, i.e. the violins, the brass instruments, etc. but the nature of the musical composition and the type of output generated as a multiple part audio playback is defined of a specific mode unit that has been detected. Its unique identification element has been attributed to a particular musical composition. In this embodiment, for instance, the respective part units could also still be coding for violins but different musical outputs are generated reflective of violins depending on the mode unit selected and detected on the placement area.

[0049] In a particular embodiment, the mode unit is adapted to enable machine learning supported algorithms. This can for instance be made possible by the processing unit being adapted for attributing this mode unit’s unique identification element to a command for activating machine learning algorithm support. This machine learning algorithm can, for instance, result in no longer a linear correspondence between unique identification elements of part unit(s) and / or further mode unit(s) to a specific single part. The machine learning algorithm can, for instance, be adapted at selecting single parts for generating a multiple part audio playback based on a current number of part units on the placement area, any one or a number of stored multiple part audio playback, the previous frequency and style of placement of part units and / or mode units by the user, a registered user profile, etc.

[0050] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the mode unit adapted to enable machine learning supported algorithms is also adapted to activate connectivity protocols for accessing one or more databases, for instance by means of a wireless communication protocol.

[0051] In an alternative and / or additional embodiment, the machine learning supported algorithms result in the mode unit adapted to enable machine learning supported algorithms to be interpreted by the processing unit via this machine learning protocol to act as any type of mode unit previously described depending on a current playback situation. The current playback situation can be assessed as follows: the machine learning algorithm analyzes the status of the arrangement, i.e., any one or all of the factors such as number and type of part units and / or mode units present, type of presently output multiple part playback, and thereupon sets the function of the mode unit adapted to enable machine learning supported algorithms to function as any type of mode units based on the result of this analysis.

[0052] The machine learning supported algorithms can affect the current multiple part audio playback and / or dynamically alter any interaction with the arrangement, such as by providing a machine learning supported change in the output upon placement and / or removal of part units.

[0053] In a particular embodiment, the processing unit is adapted to access a database with a multitude of musical audio files. Each of these musical audio files can, for instance, be attributable to one or more specific unique identification element(s).

[0054] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the musical audio files are defined as single parts of a multiple part audio playback. In an even more preferred embodiment, the musical audio files are defined as musical loops adapted as being output as repeating sections of a sound material. The processing unit is adapted to attribute the unique identification element of any one of the plurality of part units to a specific single part stored in said database.

[0055] In a further particular embodiment, the database is adapted to communicate with a file providing unit. The file providing unit can for instance be a server which can establish data connectivity with the database. This connectivity can, for instance, be used to add further specific part units, i.e. single parts for the database or to arrange the attribution of the present single parts to their unique identification element.

[0056] In a further particular embodiment, the database is adapted to record any type of multiple part output generated according to the present invention. This ever-growing database of multiple part audio playback can be accessed by machine learning supported algorithms, such as the ones described above, to assist in creating even more unique multiple part output and / or to provide sensible output regardless of user experience.

[0057] In a particular embodiment, each part unit has a unique geometric form. Particularly preferred, the geometric form is conceptually reflective of the specific part of a multiple part audio playback attributed to the unique identification element on the part, as then detected by a sensing unit. For instance, a harpsichord can be represented by a token that has a form reflective or almost miniaturized identical to a harpsichord. This can be done for any type of instrument group, even reflective of, for instance, a number of instruments within a group. If a specific part unit, for instance, has an output that is reflective of a trio of violins, the part unit can have a geometric form somehow symbolizing three violins. In the easiest variant this can be done by having modelled representations of three violins or by a violin with a figure “3” on it. The latter example can also further increase the functionality for educational purposes of the arrangement, as it can provide for a way to also teach numbers by providing, for instance, an output that is reflective of a specific number of instruments and this number being represented as an Arabic figure on the part unit. It thus takes advantage of the sonographic memory of the user, for instance a child, and helps in learning numbers.

[0058] In a further particular embodiment, each part unit has a haptically recognizable unique geometric form. In a further particular embodiment, the haptically recognizable unique geometric form comprises braille sign nubs. This embodiment is particularly useful for implementations that target visually impaired persons.

[0059] In a particular embodiment, each part unit has a haptically recognizable unique geometric form with improved tangibility. This embodiment is particularly useful for implementations targeting either younger children, the elderly or the impaired. Haptically recognizable unique geometric forms with improved tangibility can, for instance, be rings, loops, levers, handles, rubberized areas and / or materials, grooved areas, roughened areas etc., which can either be integrally formed on the part unit or attached as separate elements.

[0060] In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the output unit for generating the multiple part audio playback is adapted at generating audio by means of any one of the group consisting of: subtractive synthesis, additive synthesis, frequency modulation (FM) synthesis, phase distortion synthesis, wavetable synthesis, sample-based synthesis, vector synthesis, granular synthesis and physical modelling synthesis, or any combination thereof.

[0061] In a particular embodiment, the output unit comprises one or more loudspeakers for generating sound. Preferably, the one or more loudspeakers are integrated into the base unit.

[0062] In an alternative and / or additional embodiment, the base unit comprises means for connecting the processing unit with one or more external devices, such as, for instance, external loudspeakers and / or computing devices, such as personal computers, servers, smartphones, tablets etc. In a particular embodiment, the means for connecting the processing unit with one or more external devices is a wireless connection protocol, further in particular enabled by one or more connectivity means, such as, for instance, Bluetooth. The means for connecting the processing unit with one or more external devices can also be a wire-based connectivity protocol, such as a USB protocol of any suitable standard, such as, for instance, an Audio over Ethernet protocol.

[0063] In an even further alternative and / or additional embodiment, the base unit comprises means for connecting the processing unit with a musical instrument, such as an electronic musical instrument for instance. Suitable connection protocols and interfaces can be MIDI-protocols. In a particular embodiment, the unique identification elements are based on RFID. Particularly preferred, the unique identification elements are RFID tags with a unique embedded code.

[0064] In an alternative and / or additional embodiment, any type of near-field electromagnetic identification means that works with a sensor and a reciprocal, detectable periphery unit is workable. For the present invention, RFID has been found to provide an ideal combination of efficacy, reliability and cost effectiveness. Still, NFC protocols other than radio frequency can also be used, up to optical recognition means, for instance by providing a reading sensor on the placement area and respective visual identification elements on the part units and / or mode units; barcodes are the most well-known means to achieve this.

[0065] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the unique identification element(s) is or are based on an Active Reader Passive Tag (ARPT) system. ARPT systems have been found particularly advantageous for an implementation of the present invention, as they minimize the technical requirements for the part unit(s) which only need to provide a readable tag and do not need any further power source. Suitable ARPT systems are known to the skilled artisan. As an alternative and / or additional embodiment, of course, active tag-based systems which comprise a power source for the tags can also be used. Suitable power sources can be batteries, such as exchangeable batteries or reloadable batteries, that either can be connected with a power source by means of a USB port or can be charged inductively, for instance directly on the placement area.

[0066] In a particular embodiment, the base unit comprises one or more sensing elements. The sensing elements can, for instance, be adapted to shaping a detection area in the vicinity of the placement area. In the particular embodiment, where a plurality of sensing units is incorporated, the shielding elements can be used to separate the detection areas of the plurality of sensing units. This can add the further advantage of providing different outcomes, depending on where on a placement area a specific mode unit and / or part unit has been detected.

[0067] Shielding elements for RFID are well-known in the art. Suitable are metal foils or metal co-sintered ceramics. In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the processing unit is further adapted at recording a sequence of unique identification element(s) of the plurality of part units and instruct the output unit to provide the multiple part audio playback reflective of that sequence. By means of practical application, this can be achieved, for instance, by first recording a sequence of part units as they are placed on the placement area and only after a certain delay then outputting the audio playback reflective of that sequence. In practice, this can lead to the possibility of using a specific part unit and / or mode unit more than once. In practice you could, for instance, place the guitar part unit onto the placement area whereby a guitar sound will begin to play. The guitar sound could continue even when you remove the guitar part unit and when it is placed again a second guitar will join the first. With this application it becomes possible to build a complete orchestra or shape a canon with a multitude of "voices".

[0068] Further advantageous implementations and applications around this recorded sequencing of part units and / or mode units lie therein that the output can vary depending on the sequence the instruments are placed, possibly even up to the time intervals between the different placements. It is, for instance, conceivable that mode units can be used to inform the processing unit that now a part unit will be placed that is to be output immediately, whereas a different mode unit can provide the command that an output is only started after a preset delay, for instance after a certain sequence has been recorded. The possibilities to alter, change and experiment with a particular audio track and a multitude of instruments are countless and again only restricted by the final complexity of the arrangement and the ultimate educational goal to be achieved.

[0069] In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the mode unit has a unique geometric form, in particular a geometric form that is conceptually reflective of the type of control the mode unit applies as chosen from the group listed above. This can for instance be achieved by having the mode units reshaped as different clefs, a musical symbol. One further advantage could be that this arrangement of the present invention can provide means for learning the different musical clefs by direct physical experimentation, for instance by actually directly hearing the effect of a clef on a specific playback output, simply by placing a mode unit with a particular clef on the placement area.

[0070] Alternatively and / or additionally, mode units can have geometric forms that represent the conducting of the musical performance (for instance by depicting batons), or reflective of a tempo marking, such as for instance representing a smiling face for "allegro". In a particular embodiment, the plurality of part units is adapted to form a group of part units which then again forms an instrumental ensemble, wherein each part unit in the group of part units has a unique identification element attributable by the processing unit to a section and / or type of instruments, such as selected from the group consisting of: string instruments, woodwinds, brass instruments, percussion instruments, piano(s), harpsichord(s), bow string instrument(s) and electronic instrument(s). In this embodiment the arrangement can be designed such as to represent an orchestra, with the part units representing the different parts of the instrumental ensemble of the orchestra. Accordingly, the multiple part audio playback can be a classical piece of music such as, for example, a piece of Haydn.

[0071] The present invention provides an arrangement with a multitude of applicational fields that can be designed with a varying degree of complexity, even with a gradually increasable level of complexity for approaching users to musical composing, notes and instruments in a playful and engaging way, which also activates the tactile and haptic sense of the user, thereby increasing learning and enjoyability.

[0072] Suitable technological means for detecting the presence or absence of a particular token, i.e. part unit or mode unit with an identification element, are disclosed, for instance, in the international application PCT / IB2022 / 054096 (Bulman, H.C.), included herein by reference.

[0073] One aspect of the present invention is a method for generating multiple part audio playback with a device as previously described.

[0074] The method comprises the step of providing at least one part unit in an effective range of the sensing unit in the base of the placement area. Particularly preferred, this step requires the providing of a plurality of part units in an effective range of the sensing unit arranged in the base of the placement area. In the context of the present invention, an effective range can be determined and shaped by means of choice of the RFID antenna or plurality of RFID antennas used for the sensing unit. Shielding elements can be integrated to shape the effective range and also to define the shape of detection range in a vicinity of the placement area.

[0075] The method of the present invention requires the reading of the unique identification element of the at least one, in particular plurality of part units. In the context of the present invention, the reading can, for instance, be performed by a sensing unit acting as an active sensor and activating any resting and passive RFID tag in any one of the part units, either consecutively or simultaneously, and receiving the respective unique identification elements in the form of digital codes.

[0076] The method of the present invention further has the step of attributing any unique identification element to a specific part of a multiple part audio playback.

[0077] Each of the unique identification elements is, for instance, reflective of a particular part of a multiple part audio playback, such as, for example, for a guitar part, a violin part, a vocal part, etc.

[0078] In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the attributing is done by means of comparing the unique identification element with a database of identification codes that are stored in a memory unit of the arrangement.

[0079] In a particular embodiment, the database can be updated in intervals with further identification codes or altered such as to provide a different output for a particular identification code. One advantage of having a database that can be altered is that it provides the possibility to add further music instruments in the form of additional part units later on, such that in an initial set, for example, only a particular number of part units is included, and a particular base unit is provided, and additional part units can be bought or procured separately. Also, it provides the possibility to patch any bugs or errors that might exist in the tracks. Also, it provides the possibility to amend tracks that due to the countless possibilities could not have been foreseeably tested for incompatibility with each other in advance.

[0080] The method of the present invention also comprises the step of generating multiple part audio playback. As described above, this can, for instance, be done by providing an output element which is suitable to act or to instruct a loudspeaker to output the audio playback.

[0081] In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises the step of providing at least one mode unit in an effective range of the sensing unit. The mode unit can be used to alter and / or control a mode of the multiple part audio playback. Particularly preferred, the altering and / or controlling is performed simultaneously with an output, such as to show an immediate effect upon placement of the mode unit. It is also conceivable, though, that a mode unit has a delayed effect. The programming of the processor with respect to the mode unit ultimately decides what kind of influence it will have on the output.

[0082] In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the method further comprises the step of repeating the providing of a part unit or a plurality of part units, such that the multiple part audio playback comprises a plurality of audio tracks that are output simultaneously. Each audio track is attributable to one unique identification element detected by the sensing element. This can result in a veritable orchestra being output by the arrangement of the present invention.

[0083] In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the providing of at least one or the plurality of part units in an effective range of the sensing unit comprises a matching and at least in part essentially complementary geometric form of the part unit and / or mode unit with an at least in part essentially complementary geometric form adapted for receiving the part unit and / or mode unit on the placement area.

[0084] In a particular embodiment of the present invention, a defined time window is initiated upon reading the unique identification element of the at least one, in particular a plurality of part units. Thereby, the reading of the unique identification element of a mode unit controls the mode of an audio playback attributed to the unique identification element of the at least one, in particular plurality of part units initiating the defined time window. With this, it is possible for a mode unit to specifically address a particular output that is generated by the detection of a part unit. The output is then kept in this altered state regardless of any further part units being added and can ultimately be altered for instance by the additional mode unit being placed. Again, this increases the possibilities to combine mode parts.

[0085] One further aspect of the present invention is a computer program product workable on a processor. The computer program product is in particular workable on a processor of an arrangement according to the present invention and adapted at performing the method described above.

[0086] One further aspect of the present invention is a set of parts. A set of parts comprises a plurality of such arrangements and is used for generating multiple part audio playback like a grand orchestra with a multitude of arrangements as previously described. For this end, the arrangement can come equipped with a communication unit that enables wireless and / or direct cable communication with other arrangements. The arrangements can be adapted to either individually output audio playback according to the part units and / or mode units present on their placement area, or they can be adapted at simultaneously output the part units and / or mode units present on one arrangement from all the output units of the arrangement connected in a respective set of parts.

[0087] The present arrangement and method provide a concept with high interactivity to approach complex musical topics, sharpen the musical ear and in a playful manner introduce the teaching of notes and instruments. The arrangement of the present invention and its method of operation provide a high degree of modularity and can be adapted to suit various degrees of complexity, up to being scalable by gradually increasing the number of part units and / or mode units. The interactivity is further increased by providing haptic means of controlling the arrangement, such as by placement and / or removing of different tokens in the form of part units and / or mode units.

[0088] The present arrangement is, thus, suited for use by children, young and older adults, and even seniors, either as entertainment device, or even for therapeutic or training purposes.

[0089] The arrangement is particularly useful for the therapeutic accompaniment of special educational measures, for example in the case of ADHD, autism spectrum disorders or dyscalculia and / or dyslexia. Other areas of application can be found in geriatrics, where the concentration-enhancing and at the same time calming effect of music, combined with the haptic experience during use, can have beneficial effects for persons afflicted with a form of Alzheimer’s disease.

[0090] In the following, the present invention shall be further outlined by means of specific examples and figures without being restricted thereto. It is evident to the skilled artisan that further advantageous embodiments can be derived from this description.

[0091] For ease of reference, the same items have been given the same number in the following figures, which are to be considered schematic only. Figures

[0092] The figures show schematically:

[0093] Figure 1 an implementation of an arrangement according to the present invention;

[0094] Figure 2 a functional representation of the inside of the arrangement according to Figure 1;

[0095] Figure 3a a mode unit for use in an arrangement according to Figure 1 ;

[0096] Figure 3b a part unit for use in an arrangement according to Figure 1 ;

[0097] Figure 4 a graphical representation of a use in practice of an arrangement according to the present invention;

[0098] Figure 5 an alternative arrangement;

[0099] Figure 6a a further alternative arrangement, and

[0100] Figure 6b a variety of mode units for use in the alternative arrangement of Figure 6a;

[0101] Figure 7 a schematic representation of a process according to the present invention;

[0102] Figure 8 a further alternative arrangement;

[0103] Figure 9a a further alternative arrangement with capacitive sensors

[0104] Figure 9b details of the arrangement for figure 9a.

[0105] Detailed Description

[0106] In Figure 1, an arrangement 1 is shown for outputting multiple part audio playback.

[0107] The arrangement 1 is designed as a multiple part arrangement, with a plurality of part units 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4 and a base unit 5. For the sake of the present example, the part units 2.1 , 2.2, 2.3, 2.4 are designed to represent musical instruments, and the present arrangement 1 can be used for playfully exploring an orchestra and its constituent parts. For that end, a further mode unit 20 is included. All the units, i.e. part units 2.1 , 2.2, 2.3, 2.4 and mode unit 20, are designed to be placeable and, thus, comprise geometric forms 4.1 , 4.2, 4.3, 4.4 and 20.1 that can act as a pedestal foot. For the part units, the pedestal foot is designed cylindrical in shape, whereas the pedestal foot 20.1 is designed as a cuboid to distinguish the special nature of the mode unit 20.

[0108] Common to both is an essentially planar lower surface suitable to be placed on a placement area 6 of the base unit 5. In the present example the placement area 6 comprises a series of recesses 6.1 , 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 50.1 suitable for receiving an essentially complementary form of the pedestal foot of any one of the part units and / or mode unit. The recess helps at securing the respective unit on the pedestal, provides a form-fit against lateral shift on the placement area 6 and further ensures that the units with different function types, i.e. the part units 2.1 , 2.2, 2.3 and the mode units 20, respectively, find their proper place in the placement area 6.

[0109] For the present example, a part unit 2.1 , 2.2, 2.3, 2.4 shall be defined as being reflective of a single strand or melody or harmony of a music piece within the ensemble that is construed by the whole set of instruments. In this present context, the part unit can indeed be understood as being reflective to a particular part of a music piece in a musical sense, as understood by a musician. This can mean for a practical implementation of the arrangement 1 that each one of the part units, for instance the first part unit 2.1 , which is formed such as to represent a string instrument, has a unique identification code that by a processor inside the arrangement (not shown in Figure 1) is attributed to a part belonging to string instruments. This can be just one string instrument or a multitude of string instruments. This can, for instance, mean that the first part unit 2.1 be reflective of either all the string instruments in an ensemble, i.e. all the violins, or just one particular string instrument of the ensemble, i.e. a contrabass in a jazz ensemble, for instance.

[0110] It is understood by the skilled artisan that this definition need not be permanent. As the identification of the unique identification code and the attribution to a particular part is done by a processor and can be performed by resorting to a particular database of music tracks, the definitions can be altered, and the particular unique identification code can be attributed to one particular part in one implementation or another particular part in another implementation. This variability can be managed, for instance, by downloading different setting types, that allow the arrangement of the present invention to be used with a special type of music, such as, for instance, a particular concert, or for a special music genre, i.e. jazz, classical music, folk etc.

[0111] For outputting the audio, the base unit 5 further comprises a loudspeaker 14 that is accessed by the output unit (behind the loudspeaker) to physically output the music.

[0112] In a playful use of the arrangement, the various part units 2.1 , 2.2, 2.3, 2.4 can be placed onto the placement area 6 in the respective recesses, thereby triggering the output of the multiple part audio playback that is reflective of the specific part or summary of parts thus placed. Removal of any one of these parts from the base unit 5 subtracts that specific part of the multiple part audio playback.

[0113] This allows for an experimentation with various instruments and / or parts. To add complexity, the mode unit 20 can be used to apply a mode onto the multiple part audio playback while it is being output. This can for instance be used to control or alter any one of the voicing, the melody, the rhythm, the volume, the tempo, and / or the tonality of the output.

[0114] In an alternative embodiment, the respective part units 2.1 , 2.2, 2.3, 2.4 and / or mode units 20 comprise the specific part of a multiple part audio playback by themselves. In this implementation, these units would be wirelessly read by the base unit, and the respective specific part would be downloaded from a memory element inside these units into the base unit and processed to generate an output from the output unit.

[0115] In Figure 2, the internal workings of the arrangement according to Figure 1 are depicted schematically. Inside a casing and below the recesses, sensing units 7.1 , 7.2 are arranged such as to create a detection area F, G in a space above the placement area. Depending on whether the detection area F, G is to be narrowly defined or can be left to form a larger detection area F, shielding units 10 can be provided in the vicinity of the sensing units 7.1 , 7.2 such as to shape the detection area G. Suitable sensing units can, for instance, be RFID antennas, and shielding units can comprise metallic foil elements, that wrap around the antenna, such as to provide a muzzle, which shields the electromagnetic radiation from the antenna into the respective shapes. The sensing unit(s) 7.1 , 7.2 are adapted at detecting and reading unique identification elements in any part unit and / or mode unit within the detection area F, G. The information is then forwarded to a processing unit 8 that is adapted to attribute unique identification elements detected by the sensing units 7.1 , 7.2 to a specific part of a multiple part audio playback. To this end, the processing unit can access a memory unit 11 that stores a multitude of specific parts of a multiple part audio playback, each identifiable by a matching unique identification code that the processing unit can match with the unique identification element. The whole arrangement is powered by a power unit 12, which in the present example can take the form of a rechargeable battery that can be connected with a power supply by means of a USB plug. The use of a USB plug has the further advantage that it allows for the device to be connected, through the USB port, with a further device, such as a personal computer and / or smartphone or tablet, for information exchange. This can provide access to firmware on the arrangement to provide updates and / or to change the programming of the attributions or to download further multiple part audio playbacks with the specific parts into a memory unit 11 .

[0116] The processing unit 8 can be further connected with a communication unit 15. The communication unit 15 can also work as an alternative to the memory unit 11 , whereby the communication unit 15 has a wireless internet protocol capability that is suitable for streaming multiple part audio playback and / or can work as an auxiliary function for the instance of downloading further multiple part audio playback into the memory unit 11. The communication unit 15 can also be used to establish a connection with a tablet or smartphone for accessing further device settings and functions.

[0117] The processing unit 8, once it has matched a unique identification element with a unique identification code of a specific part of a multiple part audio playback, provides this specific part to an output unit 13 that then again outputs the sound by means of, for instance, a loudspeaker.

[0118] The memory unit 11 can also serve for at least temporarily storing a generated output, either simultaneously when an output is generated and output from the speakers, or first in a mute mode, while no audible output is generated, but only an output file.

[0119] It is also conceivable, though, that a cache memory (not shown), such as a CPU cache is present with the processing unit to at least temporarily store a generated output.

[0120] The mode unit 20.1 as shown in Figure 3a can comprise a multitude of geometric forms, each with functional and structural properties. Some of the functional and structural properties aid in the educational element that is intrinsic to the arrangement of the present invention, whereas some provide practical benefits in their use. In the present example, the mode unit 20.1 comprises a foot pedestal 21.1 which has a geometric form that is adopted to be fitted neatly into a respective recess in the placement area and in the present example is cuboid in shape. The foot pedestal 21.1 is, in the present example, hollow and comprises a passive RFID tag 24.1 in the inside.

[0121] This passive RFID tag 24.1 comprises the unique identification element and can be addressed by a sensing unit in the base unit which activates the tag and reads out the respective code. The foot pedestal 21.1 has a pedestal stand 22.1 extending from the center of the top part of the cuboid shape onto which a geometric form is placed that is reflective of a conductor's score and batons thereby reflecting the scope of this unit as a mode unit 20.1 to bring a modification, for instance in the beat, the temp, dynamics, etc., onto the multiple part audio playback while being placed and identified by the sensing unit.

[0122] In Figure 3b, an exemplary part unit 2.1 is depicted which has a foot pedestal 4.1 which is essentially cylindrical and from which also extends a stand element 31.1 from the center top part onto which a three-dimensional miniature representation of a string instrument 30.1 is placed. Inside of the foot pedestal 4.1 is a passive RFID 32.1 which can be accessed by the sensing unit.

[0123] In Figure 4, a schematic representation of a mode of use of the present invention is depicted graphically. The horizontal line represents the lapse of time period, whereas the vertical line is indicative of the various parts that are output. Each one of the parts A.1 , A.2, A.3 correspond to a part unit 2.1 , 2.2, 2.3. This means that a first part unit 2.1 has a unique identification element that results in an output of a specific part A.1 of a multiple part audio playback. The whole of Figure 4 can be considered a multiple part audio playback as in the context of the present invention. B.1 instead shows a modulation of the output that is performed by the presence or absence of a mode unit 20.1.

[0124] In the present example, the mode unit 20.1 does not incur an abrupt change, but a gradual increase, respectively decrease of a particular modulation, such as, for instance, tonality of the output. In the present example, at the starting of the output, two part units 2.1 , 2.2 are on the placement area. This results in two specific parts of a multiple part audio playback to be output, namely a first specific part A.1 , reflective of a first part unit 2.1 , and a second specific part A.2, reflective of a second part unit 2.2. At the same time, i.e. right at the beginning of the output, a mode unit 20.1 is also placed in the correct spot on a placement area and is detected and begins a modulation of the output that increases gradually and reaches its zenith eventually. Then the mode unit is removed from the placement area and the effect the mode unit had on the output is gradually reversed to a base state. Before it reaches the base state, the second part unit 2.2 is removed, which terminates the output of the specific part A.2 of the multiple part audio playback. At this point in time, a third part unit 2.3 is placed onto the placement area and a third specific part A.3 of a multiple part audio playback begins the output. Once the modulation by the mode element 20.1 reaches its base point, the mode unit 20.1 is again placed onto the placement area, which then begins a gradual increase in the reflective modulation of this specific mode unit up to a zenith. At this zenith point, the first part unit 2.1 is removed from the placement area. The mode unit 20.1 is also removed, which again gradually removes the modulation, i.e. change in tone that has been induced by the mode unit. While this happens, the third part unit 2.3 is removed and, at the same time, the second part unit 2.2 is again placed onto the placement area. This results in the third specific part A.3 seizing the output and the output of the second specific part A.2 initiating again. From this point in time, only the second specific part A.2 is output for the rest of the track, whereby the mode units are sequentially added and removed to experiment with the tonality of this second specific part A.2.

[0125] This is but one specific example with a limited number of units in use and with a schematic representation of a modulating effect by the mode unit. The skilled artisan readily understands that the combinations are almost limitless and only limited by number of units and manageable complexity of the arrangement in question. In this example, each of the part units 2.1 , 2.2, 2.3 can be reflective of a specific instrument as above or of a specific part in an ensemble of instruments that represents an orchestra.

[0126] As an additional feature a second mode unit (not shown) can be used to apply a second specific mode B.2 to the multiple part audio playback.

[0127] Figure 5 shows an alternative embodiment of the arrangement 1 of the present invention. The arrangement 1 has a base unit 5 with an essentially rectangular shape. This arrangement 1 can be used for more advanced users or, for instance, for older children or young adults where the complexity of the use is more important than the physical representation of the various placed items and tokens. In the present example, for instance, all the recesses 6.1 , 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.5 on a placement area 6 of the base unit 5 are of an identical shape and form, even identical to respective recesses 50.1 , 50.2, 50.3, 50.4, 50.5 for mode units.

[0128] In this example, the number of part units that can be used is identical to the number of mode units. The mode units do not affect, for instance, the complete multiple part audio playback, but individually act on a specific part that is output from the identification of a specific part unit. In the present example, for instance, a first part unit can be placed into a first recess 6.1. The first recess 6.1 has a neighboring second recess 50.1 which is suitable for receiving a mode unit. This repeats itself for each of the respective recesses, i.e. second recess 6.2 has a neighboring second recess for mode unit 50.2 and so on. To aid in the selection of part units, pictorial representations 40.1 , 40.2, 40.3, 40.4, 40.5 can be placed on the placement area. Alternatively, these spaces can also be used with capacitive sensors.

[0129] The capacitive sensors are adapted at detecting the presence of a finger, for instance on top of them. This can have a further modulating effect or an attenuating effect onto the specific part output of the neighboring part unit. In use, for instance, a first part unit would be present in a first recess 6.1 , and a first mode unit would be present in the first mode unit recess 50.1 . This would result in a specific part output that is reflective of this first part unit and is modulated by this first mode unit. The capacitive sensor 40.1 can add a further element of complexity to this setup by being able to, for instance, mute this specific part output, to make it louder, make it less loud, to dampen it or to apply any way of electronic modification onto the output. The capacitive sensor can for instance also be used to recognize a gesture by recognizing a shift in the touch detection.

[0130] Capacitive sensors that are suitable for this application are known to the skilled artisan and function on the principle that they can detect a change in a conductivity of anything that is close to or touches the sensor surface.

[0131] Figure 6a depicts another alternative embodiment of the arrangement 1 according to the present invention. The arrangement 1 for outputting a multiple part audio playback comprises a base unit 5 with a placement area 6 and, in the presently depicted example, 4 units, in total three-part units 2.1 , 2.2, 2.3 and one mode unit 20.1. The placement area 6 has a specially designated mode area 6.1 , which has a recess adapted at receiving the mode unit 20.1. The rest of the placement area 6 has three further recesses, each adapted at receiving a part unit 2.1 , 2.2, 2.3. The act of placing a unit a, b, c, d results in an identification of the respective part unit by means of the sensing unit 7.1 , which is designed as an RFID active antenna.

[0132] The identification code of the unique identification element situated within the respective unit are forwarded to a processing unit 8, which attributes unique identification element to a specific part of a multiple part audio playback or to a particular modulation that is initiated by the mode unit 20.1. The arrangement 1 is powered by means of a power source 12, which can be attached to a charging unit by means of a USB connection 12.1 , which can also serve at connecting the arrangement 1 with a personal computer, tablet, or smartphone. An output unit 13 is present to deliver an output reflective of any combination of units present and detected on the placement area 6 of the arrangement 1 .

[0133] A set of different mode units 20.1, 20.2, 20.3 are depicted schematically in Figure 6b and can be used as replacement parts for the mode unit 20.1 of Figure 6a. The mode units are essentially cuboid blocks with an interior volume which houses an RFID tag. On the surface of the cuboid, a depiction is present that is indicative of the type of modulation. The mode unit 20.1 , 20.2, 20.3 is adapted at performing on a multiple part audio playback of the arrangement. The depiction can be a clef, in the case of the first mode unit 20.1 , a baton, in the case of the second mode unit 20.2, or a mask depicting either a sad or happy face, in the case of the third unit 20.3, for mode units that change the tonality, i.e. into "allegro" "adagio" "presto" etc.

[0134] To make these cuboid blocks, suitable molding processes can be used, such as injection molding or thermoplastic forming. Alternatively, the cuboid blocks can be formed of wood, for example two wood pieces that are adhesively connected and have an interior volume for receiving the RFID tag. Cardboard would also be a suitable and sustainable material for the manufacture of the base unit and / or the part units / mode units, respectively.

[0135] Figure 7 depicts schematically an implementation of a method according to the present invention. A sensing unit performs a reading 100 and repeats this reading continuously or within a predetermined time set, to either identify a part unit 140 or identify a mode unit 150 in a placement area of the device. If one such unit has been detected and the unique identification element therein read, it is forwarded to a processing unit 110. The processing unit attributes a unique identification element to a specific part of the multiple part audio playback 120 each and thereby consults a database with multiple audio playback output tracks. Ultimately, the selection of specific parts of the multiple part audio playback that has been detected is output 130.

[0136] In fig. 8 an alternative embodiment of an arrangement 1 according to the present invention is shown. This arrangement 1 has a base unit 5 that is essentially designed as a tablet with a placement area 6. The placement area 6 comprises a plurality of visually or structurally defined fields, which are adapted at receiving part units 2.1 , 2.2, 2.3 or mode units (not shown in fig. 8).

[0137] In the presently shown example, the base unit 5 has an essentially flat tablet shaped form with a flat placement area 6 with the total of 48 recesses 6.1 , 6.2, 6.3 ... 6.n adapted each at receiving a part unit 2.1 , 2.2, 2.3. Also, the illustration of fig. 8, that should be understood as being purely schematic, depicts a total of three part units 2.1 , 2.2, 2.3. It is understood, that a total of 48 part units can come with an implementation of the arrangement 1 according to this present example.

[0138] In this example the recesses 6.1 , 6.2, 6.3 ... 6.n are not specifically adapted at receiving one particular part unit 2.1 , 2.2, 2.3 but can receive any one part unit.

[0139] In the present example, an act of placement is depicted by means of arrows pointing from the three exemplarily depicted part units 2.1 , 2.2, 2.3 onto some of the recesses 6.1 , 6.2, 6.3, ... 6.n.

[0140] Also, in the present example each one of the recesses is equipped with one sensor for detecting a unique identification code in a part unit 2.1 , 2.2, 2.3 once it has been placed on top of it. In the present example, a detection area is defined by a placement, where the part unit(s) 2.1 , 2.2, 2.3 fits into the respective recess 6.1 , 6.2, ... 6.n. This example is particularly useful for implementing an embodiment of the present invention where each of the part units 2.1 , 2.2, 2.3 have a unique identification code which a processor (not shown in fig. 8) integrated in the base unit 5 Is designed to attribute to a particular single part of a multiple part audio playback.

[0141] In the present example, each single part is a musical loop. Upon placement, the musical loop is initiated as playback as soon as placement of the respective part unit has been detected on any one of the recesses 6.1 , 6.2, 6.3 ... 6.n. In practice, if any two part units are placed at the same time, the output of two single parts can begin simultaneously. If placed consecutively though, the part units are defined to begin their individual musical loops each at different time points, i.e. at the time when placed on a recess of the placement area 6.

[0142] The part units 2.1 , 2.2, 2.3 are shown as simple cuboid blocks in this example. They can be visually augmented with visual depictions indicative of the single part they code for with their unique identification element or by having a particular form or geometric structure to make them distinguishable.

[0143] In a basic embodiment, each one of the part units 2.1 , 2.2, 2.3 has a different color.

[0144] The whole set of part units provides a multiple part audio playback comprising up to 48 different single parts. These single parts are available in this example for a user of this arrangement to compose a music piece.

[0145] By placing any one number of the part units onto the placement area in a recess 6.1 , 6.2, 6.3 ... 6.n an output is generated with a multitude of musical loops that are output simultaneously. The combinations and the possibilities to generate unique musical compositions are almost unlimited. In addition, there are further elements for this arrangement, such as a further recess 50.1 which is adapted at receiving a mode unit (not shown) that can be used to create even more combinations.

[0146] In a present example, a further special recess 50.2 is implemented for a further, possibly different type of mode unit from the first. In practice, this can be implemented by having a mode unit for recess 50.1 which sets the type of musical composition that is output. Such a mode unit can for instance define that the output is set as synthesizer music. The processing unit recognizes this mode unit and then based on this mode unit attributes the unique identification codes of any part unit that has been placed under the placement area to a particular output that has been stored in a database as belonging to this type of mode unit and having a single part that outputs thematically corresponding to synthesizer music. Furthermore, a second type of mode unit can be placed in the other specific placement area 50.2, for instance, to change parameters of the output, such as beats per second, tonality, volume, speed etc. A person of ordinary skill in the art readily recognizes that the modes of combination are almost limitless and even further enhanced by using the two additional mode units.

[0147] The mode units, depending on the programing, can be used to control the output of the whole multiple part audio playback or also single parts of the multiple part audio playback. To control a single part of a multiple part audio playback, for instance, a placement of a mode unit can be recorded within a particular time frame from a detection of a part unit. In practice, if you would want to control the beats per second of a particular single part that is encoded by means of a part unit, you could place the part unit into a recess of the placement area and place a mode unit onto the specific recess 50.2 within a specific time frame that is predefined, for instance, between three and five seconds. This could be understood by the processor as instruction to change the beats per second of the output reflective of previously detected part unit.

[0148] In this specific example, sensing and detection is solved by means of Radio Frequency Identification. The sensors (not shown) are Radio Frequency antennas adapted at activating passive tags within the part units 2.1 , 2.2, 2.3.

[0149] An alternative to Radio Frequency detection is shown in an otherwise analogous example of an arrangement 1 according to the present invention depicted in fig. 9a.

[0150] This arrangement 1 uses capacitive sensors and a specific coding of the capacitive sensors on the part units 2.1 , 2.2 as they are placed onto respective recesses 6.1 , 6.2, 6.n, 50.1 , 50.2 for a means of detection.

[0151] This is depicted in even further detail in fig. 9b. Each of the recesses 50.1 , 6.1 , 6.2, ... 6.n, 50.2 has a capacitive field 50.1 with a plurality of contact points 55.

[0152] The part units 2.1 have a bottom side 2.12 with a capacitive field 2.13 which have a unique arrangement of capacitive sensor pins. Upon placement of the part unit 2.1 onto the recess 50.1 this unique arrangement of pins 2.14 is detected.

[0153] Therewith a processing unit can attribute this unique identification element to a particular single part of a multiple part audio playback. The present invention provides an arrangement and a method for providing a means to educate users in the musical arts and to provide a playful approach to complex issues, such as composing and knowledge of musical instruments, as well as different modes of sound, such as tone, rhythm, harmony, melody, etc. The arrangement thus provided is highly customizable and provides means to adapt and gradually increase the level of difficulty and provides an entertaining source of play for children and adults of any age.

Claims

Claims1 . Arrangement (1) for outputting a multiple part audio playback, comprising: a. A plurality of part units (2.1, 2.2, 2.3, ...), each part unit comprising a unique identification element attributable to a specific part in an audio playback (A.1 , A.2, A.3, ...) and each part unit (2.1 , 2.2, 2.3, ...) having a geometric form (4.1 , 4.2, 4.3, ...); b. A base unit (5) with a placement area (6) for receiving at least one part unit (2.1 , 2.2, 2.3, ...), preferably the placement area (6) being formed as at least in part (6.1 , 6.2, 6.3, ...) essentially complementary geometric (4.1 , 4.2, 4.3,...) form for receiving at least one part unit; c. A sensing unit (7.1 , 7.2, ...) arranged in the base unit and adapted to detect and read the unique identification element(s) of any one of the plurality of part units, d. A processing unit (8) adapted to attribute the unique identification elements) of any one of the plurality of part units to a specific part of a multiple part audio playback; e. An output unit for generating a multiple part audio playback reflective of the part unit(s) detected.

2. Arrangement according to claim 1 , further comprising at least one mode unit (20) comprising a unique identification element attributable to a specific mode (B.1 ; B.2; ...) in an audio playback.

3. Arrangement according to claim 2, wherein each mode unit has a geometric form, and wherein the placement area is adapted to receiving the at least one mode unit, preferably the placement area being formed as at least in part essentially complementary geometric form for receiving the at least one mode unit.

4. Arrangement according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the mode unit is adapted to control any one of the following with respect to an output: voicing, melody, rhythm, volume, tempo and / or tonality.

5. Arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein each part has a unique geometric form, in particular a geometric form that is conceptually reflective of the specific part of a multiple part audio playback attributed the unique identification element(s) of the part.

6. Arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the output unit for generating the multiple part audio is adapted to generating audio by means of any one of the group consisting of: subtractive synthesis, additive synthesis, frequency modulation (FM) synthesis, phase distortion synthesis, wavetable synthesis, sample-based synthesis, vector synthesis, granular synthesis and physical modelling synthesis, or a combination thereof.

7. Arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the unique identification element(s) is or are based on RFID, in particular RFID-tags.

8. Arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the unique identification element(s) is or are based on an active reader passive tag (ARPT) system.

9. Arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the processing unit is further adapted to record a sequence of unique identification element(s) of any one of the plurality of part units and instruct the output unit to provide the multiple part audio playback also reflective of that sequence.

10. Arrangement according to any one of claims 2 to 9, wherein the mode unit has a unique geometric form, in particular a geometric form that is conceptually reflective of the type control(s) the mode unit applies as chosen from the group listed in claim 3.

11. Arrangement according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the plurality of part units is adapted to form a group of part units which forms an instrumental ensemble wherein each part unit in the group of part units has a unique identification element attributable by the processing unit to a section and / or type of instruments, such asselected from the group consisting of: bow string instruments, woodwinds, brass instruments, percussion instruments, piano(s), harpsichord(s), pull string instruments) and electronic instrument(s).

12. Method for generating a multiple part audio playback with a device according to any one of claims 1 to 11 , comprising the steps of: a. providing at least one, in particular a plurality of, part unit(s) in an effective range of the sensing unit arranged in the base of the placement area; b. reading the unique identification element(s) of the at least one, in particular a plurality of, part unit(s); c. attributing any unique identification element to a specific part of the multiple part audio playback each; d. generating the multiple part audio playback.

13. Method according to claim 12, further comprising the step of: e) providing at least one mode unit in an effective range of the sensing unit arranged in the base of the placement area and thereby controlling a mode of the multiple part audio playback.

14. Method according to any one of claims 12 to 13, whereby the method comprises the step of: f) repeating step a) to d) with a second part unit or a second plurality of part unit(s), such that the multiple part audio playback comprises a plurality of audio tracks that are simultaneously output, wherein each audio track is attributable to one unique identification element detected in step c) of any one of the plurality of part units.

15. Method according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the providing of at least one, in particular a plurality of, part unit(s) in an effective range of the sensing unit and / or the providing of at least one mode unit in an effective range of the sensing unit comprise(s) a matching of an at least in part essentially complementarygeometric form of the part unit and / or mode unit with an at least in part essentially complementary geometric form for receiving the said unit(s) on the placement area.

16. Method according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein a defined time window is initiated upon reading the unique identification element(s) of the at least one, in particular a plurality of, part unit(s), wherein a reading the unique identification element of a mode unit controls the mode of the audio playback attributed to the unique identification element(s) of the at least one, in particular a plurality of, part unit(s) initiating the defined time window.

17. Computer program product workable on a processor, in particular on a processor of an arrangement according to claim 1, for performing a method according to any one of claims 12 to 16.

18. Set of parts comprising a plurality of arrangements according to claim 1 for generating a multiple part audio playback like a grand orchestra.

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