Portable speaker with automatic input channel detection

Abstract

We provide a portable speaker configured to adjust the audio output based on the detected input connection. [Solution] The portable speaker loudspeaker 10 comprises an enclosure 22 housing at least one electroacoustic transducer that provides audio output, a processor coupled to the electroacoustic transducer, an audio input module 110 coupled to the processor for receiving audio input signals, a battery that supplies power to at least one transducer, processor and audio input module, an input channel for receiving a wired audio input connection, and at least one wireless input channel for receiving audio input from a source device via a wireless connection. The processor adjusts the audio signal received by the wired audio input channel if a source device is already connected via a wireless connection.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] (Cross - reference to Related Applications) This application is related to U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 583,524 (Attorney Docket No. PS - 21 - 140 - US, Invention Title "Portable Speaker with Integrated Wireless Transmitter", Filing Date: January 25, 2022) and U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 583,529 (Attorney Docket No. PS - 21 - 142 - US, Invention Title "Portable Speaker with Dynamic Display Characteristics", Filing Date: January 25, 2022), and the entire disclosure of each of them is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] (Field of the Invention) This disclosure generally relates to portable speakers. More particularly, this disclosure relates to portable speakers such as portable public address (PA) speakers having a wireless transmitter.

Background Art

[0003] Portable loudspeakers such as portable PA systems can provide flexibility to users in various scenarios. However, conventional portable loudspeakers require a wired connection for a specific input, thereby limiting functionality.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] All examples and features mentioned below can be combined in any technically possible way.

[0005] Various implementations include a portable speaker configured to adjust an audio output based on a detected input connection.

[0006] In some particular embodiments, the portable speaker comprises an enclosure housing at least one electroacoustic transducer for providing an audio output, a processor coupled to the transducer, an audio input module coupled to the processor for receiving an audio input signal, and a battery configured to power at least one transducer, processor, and audio input module; an input channel for receiving a wired audio input connection; and at least one wireless input channel for receiving an audio input from a source device via a wireless connection, wherein the processor is configured to adjust the audio signal received from the wired audio input connection if the source device is already connected via the wireless connection.

[0007] In additional specific embodiments, a method for controlling a portable speaker includes the steps of: detecting a wireless connection to a first source device via at least one wireless input channel; detecting a wired connection to a second source device via a wired audio input connection, after detecting a wireless connection to the first source device; and adjusting an audio signal from the second source device.

[0008] The implementation may include one of the following characteristics, or any combination thereof.

[0009] In some cases, the processor switches the input channel to the effects loop in response to detecting a wired audio input connection while the source device is already connected via a wireless connection.

[0010] In certain embodiments, the step of adjusting the audio signal includes adjusting the preamplification sequence of the audio signal before providing the audio output.

[0011] In certain implementations, the processor is further configured to receive audio input from a source device via a wireless connection as a digital audio input and to convert the digital audio input into an analog audio signal.

[0012] In some embodiments, the wired audio input connection includes a tip-sleeve (TS) connection, a tip-ring-sleeve (TRS) connection, or an XLR connection.

[0013] In certain cases, at least one wireless input channel includes at least two wireless input channels.

[0014] In a particular implementation, the portable speaker further includes at least two wireless transmitters detachably housed within an enclosure, each wireless transmitter for enabling a wireless connection between a source device and one of the corresponding wireless input channels.

[0015] In some embodiments, each wireless transmitter is configured to connect the source device to a portable speaker in response to detecting a connection with the source device.

[0016] In certain implementations, the portable speaker further includes a series of docks for housing a wireless transmitter.

[0017] In some embodiments, the processor is configured to detect when at least one of the wireless transmitters is powered on and paired with a portable speaker, and to detect a wired input connection, and to adjust the audio input signal received from the wired audio input connection and play it back as an effects loop.

[0018] In certain cases, only when the wireless transmitter is powered on and paired with a portable loudspeaker, the processor is configured to adjust the audio input signal from the wired audio input connection for playback as an effects loop.

[0019] In certain implementations, the processor is configured to select an audio input based on commands from an application running on a connected smart device.

[0020] In some cases, adjusting the audio signal from the second source device includes switching the input channel to an effect loop in response to detecting a wired connection to the second source device while the first source device is already connected via a wireless connection.

[0021] In certain aspects, adjusting the audio signal includes adjusting the pre-amplification order of the audio signal before providing an audio output in a portable speaker.

[0022] In certain aspects, the portable speaker further includes a battery configured to power at least one transducer, a processor, and an audio input module, and a wired power connector for charging the battery and powering the portable speaker.

[0023] In additional implementations, the portable speaker is part of a public address (PA) speaker.

[0024] Two or more features described in this disclosure, including the features described in the summary section of the present invention, may be combined to form implementations not specifically described herein.

[0025] The details of one or more implementations are described in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other features, objectives, and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026] [Figure 1A] FIG. is a perspective view of a portable power supply public address (PA) loudspeaker system oriented in a first position according to various implementations. [Figure 1B]A perspective view of the portable power supply PA loudspeaker system of FIG. 1A, oriented in the second position. [Figure 1C] A perspective view of the portable power supply PA loudspeaker system of FIGS. 1A and 1B, oriented in the third position. [Figure 2A(1)] A diagram showing the acoustic range of the PA loudspeaker system, oriented in the first position shown in FIG. 1A. [Figure 2A(2)] A diagram showing the acoustic range of the PA loudspeaker system, oriented in the first position shown in FIG. 1A. [Figure 2B(1)] A diagram showing the acoustic range of the PA loudspeaker system, oriented in the second position shown in FIG. 1B. [Figure 2B(2)] A diagram showing the acoustic range of the PA loudspeaker system, oriented in the second position shown in FIG. 1B. [Figure 2C(1)] A diagram showing the acoustic range of the PA loudspeaker system, oriented in the third position shown in FIG. 1C. [Figure 2C(2)] A diagram showing the acoustic range of the PA loudspeaker system, oriented in the third position shown in FIG. 1C. [Figure 3] A perspective view of the interior of the PA loudspeaker system, according to various implementations. [Figure 4] Another perspective view of the PA loudspeaker system of FIGS. 1A - 3, oriented in the first position, including a diagram of a series of control knobs and switches arranged on one or more sides of the PA loudspeaker system, according to various implementations. [Figure 5] A signal flow diagram showing the audio path and bus path within the loudspeaker, according to various implementations. [Figure 6] An end view showing a series of docks within the loudspeaker, according to various implementations. [Figure 7] A side view showing a series of wireless transmitters for the loudspeaker, according to various implementations. [Figure 8]This is an end view showing a series of wireless transmitters for loudspeakers in various implementation configurations. [Figure 9] This is a perspective cutaway view of a loudspeaker showing the antenna position in various implementation configurations. [Figure 10] This is a flowchart illustrating the processing within a method, based on various implementation configurations. [Figure 11] This is a magnified view of the display in the first orientation, with various implementation configurations. [Figure 12] This is a magnified view of the display in a second orientation, using various implementation configurations. [Figure 13] These are magnified views of a portion of a display, representing various implementation configurations.

[0027] Please note that the drawings of various implementation configurations are not necessarily to scale. The drawings are intended to show only typical embodiments of this disclosure and should not be considered to limit the scope of implementation configurations. In the drawings, similar numbering represents similar elements between drawings. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] This disclosure is at least in part based on the recognition that portable speakers, such as public address (PA) speakers, can benefit from automatically detecting audio source inputs to improve the user experience. For example, a portable speaker may be configured to adjust an audio signal received from a wired audio input connection, for example, to trigger an effects loop, if the source device is already connected via a wireless connection.

[0029] Commonly labeled components in the diagram are considered substantially equivalent for illustrative purposes, and redundant descriptions of those components are omitted for clarity. The numerical ranges and values ​​described according to various implementations are merely examples of such ranges and values ​​and are not intended to limit these implementations. In some cases, the term “approximately” is used to modify values, in which case these values ​​may refer to a margin of error, such as measurement error, which may range from up to 1 to 5 percent.

[0030] In some examples, PA loudspeaker systems are constructed with a specific target customer segment in mind. For example, the primary use of a PA loudspeaker system may be for a solo musician who needs an amplifier for voice or instrument (e.g., guitar or drums) to perform on the street, or for a disc jockey playing music for a small audience. In another embodiment, a PA loudspeaker system may be a general-purpose electroacoustic driver for amplifying sound, e.g., voice and / or instrument, in a classroom, a karaoke event at home, or other event involving a small group of people. In yet another embodiment, a PA loudspeaker system may be required for a larger audience, such as an auditorium. While certain embodiments of loudspeakers, such as PA loudspeakers, are described herein, additional features of such loudspeakers are also described and illustrated in U.S. Patent No. 10,555,101 (filed April 2, 2019) and U.S. Patent No. 10,524,042 (filed June 27, 2017), each of which is incorporated in whole by reference.

[0031] As shown in Figures 1A to 1C, the portable motorized loudspeaker (e.g., a PA speaker system) 10 may include an enclosure 22 (also called a housing or cabinet) having a top 51, a base 52, and a number of sides extending between the top 51 and the base 52. For example, as shown in Figures 1A to 1C, the sides may include a first side 53, a second side 54, a third side 55, a fourth side 61, a fifth side 62, a sixth side 63, and a seventh side 64. Each side extends along a common extending direction in the periphery between the top 51 and the base 52 to form the interior of the enclosure 22, where a series of mounted transducers are arranged, for example, as shown in Figure 3. In other embodiments, the enclosure 22 may have a different number of sides having varying widths or other dimensions, for example, fewer than or more than seven sides. The enclosure 22 is configured to be oriented vertically, horizontally, or diagonally, for example, tangentially or non-vertically with respect to the ground on which the loudspeaker 10 is placed.

[0032] The upper section 51 may include a plurality of inclined wall sections 121, 122, 123, 124, 125, 126, and 127, each of which inclines, tapers, or slopes from the bottom region of the upper section 51 that abuts the side surface towards the upper region, providing robustness and portability to the loudspeaker 10. Each upper wall section 121 to 127 has an upper horizontal boundary section 131, a bottom vertical boundary section 132, and an inclined or sloped section 133 extending between the upper section 131 and the bottom section 132. Therefore, the periphery of the bottom region of the upper section 51, formed by the bottom section 132 of the upper wall sections 121 to 127, may include a lip and thus may have larger parameters than the periphery of the upper region formed by the upper horizontal boundary section 131. The lip formed by the vertical bottom portion 132 of the upper wall portions 121-127 of the upper part 51 of the enclosure 22 may also have a width greater than the width of the portion formed by the sides 53, 54, 55, 61, 62, 63, and 64 of the enclosure 22.

[0033] The upper regions of the combined wall sections 121-127 may include a horizontal upper boundary forming a cavity or recess within the upper section 51, where the handle 72 may be positioned. The handle 72 can enable the portable loudspeaker 10 to be easily carried and transported with one hand.

[0034] The top 51 may have a pentagonal shape formed from the walls 121, 123, 124, 125, and 126. However, the walls may be of different lengths, and other walls may extend between the sides of the five pentagons, so the top 51 does not have to be a perfect pentagon (i.e., all five sides are of the same length). For example, as shown, the top may include a wall 122 between walls 121 and 123 and a wall 127 between walls 121 and 126, which would otherwise provide bevels or cutoffs in the areas that are the corners between walls 121 and 123 and between walls 121 and 126, respectively. In some embodiments, the top walls 121-127 and the corners formed between them may be aligned along a common extending direction with the sides 53, 54, 55, 61, 62, 63, and 64, and the corners between them. For example, the corner region C' between wall portions 121 and 122 may extend along the same axis as the corner region C'' between sides 53 and 61, as shown in Figure 1A. In some embodiments, the base side, e.g., side 142, may have the same width as the enclosure side, e.g., 61. In other embodiments, the width of the base side may differ from the width of the corresponding enclosure surface.

[0035] The base 52 of the enclosure 22, opposite to the upper 51, includes sides extending at a predetermined angle, for example, 30 degrees, from the wall portions 141-147, or from the flat bottom portion 66 and the inclined bottom portion 67 of the base 52. The flat bottom portion 66 is coupled to, integrated with, or otherwise aligned with the sides 52, 53, and 54. The inclined bottom portion 67 is coupled to, integrated with, or otherwise aligned with the sides 63 and 64, each having a tapered surface that allows for the tapering of the bottom portion 67.

[0036] The base walls 141-147 of the base may include a first portion that slopes, tapers, or inclins from the bottom surfaces 66, 67, and a second portion that extends vertically along a parallel plane identical to or parallel to the corresponding side wall. The combined first base wall forms a boundary having parameters smaller than those of the second base wall. The boundary formed from the second base wall may include a lip that is wider than the outer circumferential surface of the enclosure 22 formed by the sides 53, 54, 55, 61, 62, 63, and 64.

[0037] Therefore, each of the upper 51 and the bottom 52 may have a width, contour, perimeter, or related dimensions greater than the width, contour, perimeter, or related dimensions of the peripheral side wall region formed by the sides 53, 54, 55, 61, 62, 63, and 64. As a result, part or all of the sides are recessed relative to the upper 51 and the base 52, preventing elements from the walls, i.e., control elements 24, handles 72, etc., from protruding beyond the outermost surfaces of the upper 51 and the base 52, and thus allowing the walls of the upper 51 and the base 52 to be positioned on a flat surface without interference from such elements.

[0038] In some embodiments, the enclosure 22 may be formed and molded from a single material such that the upper 51 and base 52 are integrated with or incorporated with at least some of the sides, for example, to form a single piece. In some embodiments, all sides except the first side 53 are integrated with the upper 51 and base 52, for example, as shown in Figure 3. In some embodiments, one or more panels may be placed on top of the enclosure 22, with at least one panel forming or covering one of the sides. For example, a front grille, screen, or panel 71 may form the first side 53, or be placed on top of another layer of material forming the first side 53, or simply cover the opening of the enclosure. In some embodiments, the front grille 71 extends from the first surface 53 to at least a portion of the adjacent sides 62, 62, 54, and / or 55. In other embodiments, instead of a frame, the panels forming the sides are directly joined to each other to form a perimeter around the interior of the enclosure 22.

[0039] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 3, the electroacoustic transducer is arranged to provide an audio output. For example, a horn-type woofer 82 and tweeters 84A-84C (generally 84) may be arranged to output sound waves from the first side 53 through the front grille 71. Behind the front grille 71, there may be two or more acoustic ports 92A, 92B (generally 92) to allow air and / or sound to flow through the inside of the enclosure 22, for example, behind the woofer 82. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 3, a sub-enclosure 90 may be coupled to the system frame to receive and hold the woofer 82, tweeter 84, and acoustic ports 92 in place. Multiple panels and / or sides, for example sides 53, 61, and 62, may be arranged to cover the sub-enclosure 90.

[0040] Figure 4 shows one of the sides (e.g., side 63) that includes one or more control elements 24, such as interfaces, connectors, knobs, and switches. In certain implementations, the control elements 24 can be located on the same side of the speaker 10, e.g., side 63. In other implementations, the control elements 24 can be distributed across two or more surfaces of the enclosure 22. Various additional embodiments of the loudspeaker 10 are described in the following sections, and their features can be implemented separately or in any combination that is technically feasible.

[0041] Detachable wireless transmitters (multiple units possible) Figure 5 is a system diagram showing the signal flow paths to and from the loudspeaker 10 in various implementation configurations. In a particular case, the signal flow path shows the flow of audio signals and / or control signals to and from the loudspeaker 10, and / or between components contained in the enclosure 22. Specific control components are not shown but can be deployed similarly to those described in U.S. Patent No. 10,555,101. For example, the loudspeaker 10 may include one or more orientation sensors (e.g., inertial measurement unit, magnetometer / gyroscope / accelerometer, etc.) to detect changes in the orientation of the loudspeaker 10 and adjust the audio output equalization settings based on the detected changes in orientation.

[0042] In various implementations, the loudspeaker 10 includes a processor 100 (e.g., a system processor which may include one or more microcontrollers) coupled with an audio input module 110 for receiving audio input signals from one or more source devices. In various implementations, the audio input module 110 may include an audio processor module (not shown) for communicating with the system processor 100. In certain implementations, the audio input module 110 may include a wireless communication module, such as a Bluetooth or BLE module, for communicating with one or more devices via a wireless communication protocol. The processor 100 may be configured to control amplifier inputs and outputs, including sensor inputs, outputs to fans and other temperature control components, and inputs / outputs to driver (converter) connectors such as low-frequency, medium-frequency, and high-frequency driver outputs. The processor 100 may also be configured to send and receive audio and control signals, for example, via the amplifier module connector.

[0043] In certain cases, the audio input module 110 is configured to receive audio input signals from two or more source devices, which may include source devices of different types. The loudspeaker 10 is shown with at least one input channel (two shown as 120A and 120B) for receiving a wired audio input connection in the enclosure 22. Corresponding input connectors 130A and 130B for channels 120A and 120B are shown in Figure 4. In addition, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the loudspeaker 10 may further include at least one wireless transmitter 140 (two transmitters 140A and 140B are shown) that is detachably housed in the enclosure 22 and communicates with corresponding wireless input channels 150 (an example of two input channels 150A and 150B is shown in Figure 5) for receiving audio input from source devices (e.g., musical instruments, microphones, etc.). In a specific implementation, each wireless input channel 150 corresponds to input channels 120A and 120B for receiving wired input connections (for example, in connectors 130A and 130B). That is, the loudspeaker 10 allows the user to connect a source device wirelessly or via a wired connection to the same input channels (e.g., channel 1, channel 2, etc.). In the example shown in Figures 4 and 5, two wireless transmitters 140A and 140B are shown, corresponding to separate wireless input channels 150A and 150B, and enabling separate wireless connections between the source device and channels 150A and 150B.

[0044] Figure 5 shows additional components within the loudspeaker circuit for performing audio and / or control processing, including, for example, an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 152 and stereo digital-to-analog converters 154A, 154B, and 154C. Specific data flow and signal flow paths are shown for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit various implementations. In specific cases, wireless connection flow paths are contrasted with wired connection flow paths by the term "wireless".

[0045] Figure 6 is an enlarged view showing a dock(s) 160 housing transmitter(s) 140 with the transmitter(s) 140 detached. In various configurations, the transmitter(s) 140 are configured to mechanically engage and disengage from the loudspeaker(s) 10 in the dock(s) 160. According to a particular configuration, the dock(s) 160 has a depth greater than its width or height, allowing it to accommodate connectors for each transmitter(s) 140. In certain cases, the transmitter(s) 140 are detachable from the loudspeaker(s) 10 in the dock(s) 160 and attachable to the loudspeaker(s) 10 without tools or other external devices. For example, the transmitter(s) 140 can be configured to connect to the dock(s) 160 via interlocking arms(s) or hooks(s), spring mounts, pressure-fit connectors, etc. In these cases, the user can manually connect and disconnect the transmitter(s) 140 from the loudspeaker(s) 10.

[0046] Figure 7 is a side view of a set of transmitters 140 removed from dock 160. Figure 8 is a view of the end face of transmitter 140 in Figure 7. Referring to Figures 6 to 8, the transmitters 140 can be configured to slide in and out of dock 160 on one or more rails 170 or other guide members within dock 160. In some cases, each dock 160 has a pair of rails 170 for aligning the corresponding transmitters 140 when docked. In certain implementations, as shown in Figure 8, the transmitters 140 may include recesses 180 (two shown in this embodiment) that complement the rails 170. In other cases, the recesses may be located within dock 160 and the rails (or similar projections) may be located on the transmitters 140. That is, any form of complementary alignment function can be utilized to align the transmitters 140 within dock 160. In additional implementations, the transmitters 140 include a flexible material 190 at the interface with dock 160. This flexible material 190 may be different from the harder material placed in other parts of the transmitter 140, and may allow for a desirable consistent mating between the body of the transmitter 140 and the dock 160.

[0047] In some implementations, each transmitter 140 may include a command button 195 for controlling one or more functions of the transmitter 140. For example, as shown in Figure 7, the transmitter 140 may include a power button 200 for turning the transmitter 140 on and / or off. In some implementations, as optionally indicated by dashed lines, the transmitter 140 may also include a mute button 210 for muting the output from the transmitter 140.

[0048] In certain implementations, as shown in Figure 7, one of the transmitters 140A includes a chip-sleeve (TS) audio connector 220 for coupling with a source device. As illustrated, the TS audio connector 220 is configured to be nested within the body of the transmitter 140A or otherwise housed, which protects the connector 220 while allowing docking and detachment from the dock(s) 160. Figure 7 shows the connector in an intermediate state where a portion of the TS audio connector 220 is located outside the body of the transmitter 140. It should be understood that in certain implementations, the TS audio connector 220 may be replaced with a chip-ring sleeve (TRS) audio connector. The TS audio connector 220 can be configured to couple with a source device such as an electric musical instrument (e.g., guitar, keyboard, etc.) or any other output device having a corresponding TS mating connection. In additional implementations, one of the transmitters 140B includes an XLR audio connector 230 for coupling with a source device. The XLR audio connector 230 may be configured to connect to a source device such as a microphone or other line-level source(s). In various implementations, each dock 160 is configured to accept one of the transmitters 140. That is, the first dock 160A may be configured to accept either transmitter 140A or transmitter 140B, and the second dock 160B may be configured to accept either transmitter 140A or transmitter 140B. Furthermore, it should be understood that the input connector 130 may be configured to make physical connections to TS, TRS, and / or XLR audio connectors.

[0049] As described herein, a dock(s) 160 may provide both physical and electrical connections to a transmitter(s) 140 for storage, power supply / charging, and communication. For example, referring to Figures 7 and 8, each dock 160 may include an electrical and / or data connector 240 for coupling with a corresponding connector 240' on the transmitter 140 (shown as being located inside the main body). In certain cases, the electrical and / or data connector 240 may include a USB connector. In certain embodiments, the connector 240 (e.g., a USB connector, or a variation thereof such as a USB-C connector) enables software updates of the transmitter 140 or debug accessory mode (DAM) operation in the transmitter 140.

[0050] The dock 160 may also include a spring coupling 250 and magnets 260 (or more magnets). In certain cases, the spring coupling 250 allows the user to push to engage and / or push to disengage, respectively, thereby coupling the transmitter 140 to and disengaging it from the dock 160. In certain cases, when the transmitter 140 is docked, the outer surface of the transmitter 140 is substantially coplanar with the outer surface of the enclosure 22. This position can be maintained by the spring coupling and magnets 260. In certain cases, the spring coupling 250 allows the transmitter 140 to be released so that the user can grasp the transmitter 140 and remove it from the dock 160. In certain cases, the connector 240 (e.g., a USB connector) is maintained in an intermediate position, and as a result, the transmitter 140 remains connected to the magnets 260 and connector 240 even after the spring coupling 250 has been released. In other words, a force greater than the spring force of the coupling portion 250 is required to overcome the coupling between the transmitter 140 and the connector 240 and magnet 260. In this sense, the connector (e.g., a USB connector) 240 has the minimum holding force necessary to maintain the data connection with the loudspeaker 10.

[0051] In some cases, each wireless transmitter 140 has a battery and is configured to begin charging the battery in response to being engaged with one of the docks 160. For example, in response to the detection of a connection (e.g., a USB connection) at the connector 240, the processor in the loudspeaker 10 is configured to begin charging the transmitter 140.

[0052] In additional implementations, each transmitter 140 is configured to connect a source device (e.g., a musical instrument, microphone, etc.) to a corresponding wireless input channel (e.g., channel 1, channel 2, etc.) in response to detecting a connection with a source device. In certain implementations, when a user connects transmitter 140 to a source device, transmitter 140 automatically pairs the source device with an input channel (e.g., channel 1, channel 2, etc.). In certain implementations, if transmitter 140 is in a sleep or standby state before connecting to a source device, transmitter 140 is configured to wake up in response to detecting a connection with a source device. In certain cases, a transmitter 140 in a sleep or standby state wakes up in response to detecting a connection and then connects the source device to an input channel.

[0053] As described herein, in a scenario where the loudspeaker 10 has multiple transmitters 140 for transmitting signals to multiple input channels (e.g., channel 1, channel 2), the processor in the loudspeaker 10 is configured to receive audio input from each of the radio input channels. In certain cases, each radio input channel has a separate radio antenna. In some cases, the separate antennas are dedicated to the corresponding radio input channel. Figure 9 shows a partial perspective cutaway of the loudspeaker 10, illustrating an example of two separate radio antennas 300A, 300B (e.g., radio frequency (RF) antennas) along with a Bluetooth (BT) antenna 310. In certain implementations, each antenna 300A, 300B is positioned and oriented to provide substantially uniform omnidirectional sensitivity along a plane to radio signals from the corresponding radio transmitters 140. In other words, along a given plane, such as a height relative to the ground or floor, each of the antennas 300A and 300B exhibits substantially uniform sensitivity to the radio signal from the corresponding transmitter 140 in all directions. This allows the user to connect the radio transmitter 140 for any channel to a source device (e.g., a microphone, musical instrument, etc.) and move around the loudspeaker 10 in the plane without significant differences in radio signal quality. In a particular case, as described herein, the loudspeaker 10 is configured to operate in multiple orientations, and each antenna 300A and 300B maintains substantially uniform omnidirectional sensitivity along the plane to the radio signal from the corresponding transmitter (e.g., transmitter 140A, transmitter 140B), regardless of the orientation of the loudspeaker 10.

[0054] In certain implementations, the audio input to the loudspeaker 10 can be controlled by one or more control elements 24 (Figure 4), such as via a command interface, GUI, dial, or buttons. In additional implementations, the audio input to the loudspeaker 10 can be controlled by commands from an application running on a connected smart device. That is, the user can control the selection of audio inputs (e.g., from a Bluetooth device, transmitter 140A, transmitter 140B, etc.) using commands from an application running on a connected smart device such as a smartphone, tablet, or dedicated controller.

[0055] In additional implementations, the loudspeaker 10 is configured to wirelessly connect to a first additional portable speaker via one of the wireless input channels. For example, the loudspeaker 10 can connect to an additional similar loudspeaker via a Bluetooth connection (e.g., via the BT antenna 310) or via another wireless communication protocol (e.g., Wi-Fi). In specific cases of these, the loudspeaker 10 can provide audio output to the first additional portable speaker via the wireless connection.

[0056] In further implementations, the loudspeaker 10 is configured to wirelessly connect to a second additional portable speaker (for example, a speaker similar to the loudspeaker 10) via a wireless input channel and a line-out connection in the second additional portable speaker. In these cases, the loudspeaker 10 is configured to receive audio input from the second additional portable speaker via one of the wireless transmitters 140 coupled to the line-out connector 350 (Figure 4) to form a wireless daisy-chain between the loudspeakers 10.

[0057] As referred to herein, the loudspeaker 10 is configured for both wired (wired) and portable (e.g., battery-powered) use. That is, as shown in Figure 4, the enclosure 22 may include a wired power connector 360 for charging an onboard battery (housed in the enclosure 22) that can power a converter(s), processor(s), audio input module(s), etc. The wired power connector 360 may also provide power for charging a wireless transmitter 140, including onboard power storage (e.g., a battery(s)), as described herein. In various implementations, the battery(s) in the loudspeaker 10 and / or transmitter 140 are rechargeable and / or replaceable.

[0058] Automatic detection of input channels In certain implementations, the loudspeaker 10 is configured to automatically detect the input channel and adjust the audio input signal accordingly. In certain cases, the processor 100 is configured to adjust the audio signals received from the wired input connection 130 and / or the wireless transmitter 140 based on one or more of the connection status or connection order. Figure 10 illustrates how the processor 100 manages input connections in various implementations. For example, in certain cases, the processor 100 is configured to detect the status of the wired audio input connection at connector 130 (process P1) and the wireless connection with transmitter 140 (decision D1). If the wireless connection precedes the wired connection at connector 130 (Yes to D1), the processor 100 adjusts the audio signal from the wired connector 130 (process P2). If the wireless connection does not precede the wired connection (No to D1), the processor 100 outputs the audio input from the wired connector 130 as the primary audio (process P3).

[0059] In certain implementations, decision D1 (the step of detecting the state of the wireless connection with the transmitter) includes checking whether the wireless transmitter 140 is present in the corresponding dock 160 before determining whether the audio input from the source device is detected via the wireless connection 150. In certain of these cases, the processor 100 can first determine whether the wireless transmitter 140 is powered on, and if so, whether the transmitter 140 is paired with the corresponding channel (e.g., channel 1 or channel 2). In further cases, the processor 100 determines whether the audio input is received via the paired wireless transmitter 140. According to some implementations, if the wireless transmitter 140 is powered on and paired with the corresponding input channel (e.g., channel 1 or channel 2), the loudspeaker 10 adjusts only the audio signal from the wired connector 130 (process P2). In a further implementation, the loudspeaker 10 adjusts only the audio signal from the wired connector 130 if the wireless transmitter 140 is paired and an audio input is being received from the transmitter 140 (process P2). If the processor 100 determines that the transmitter 140 is powered on but not paired or is not providing an audio input, the processor 100 prioritizes the wired connection and outputs the audio input from the connector 130 as the primary audio (process P3).

[0060] In certain embodiments, the step of adjusting the audio signal in process P2 includes switching the input channel 120 for the wired connector 130 to the effects loop. In certain cases of these embodiments, the step of adjusting the audio signal in process P2 includes adjusting the pre-amplification order of the audio signal (from the wired connector 130) before providing an audio output, for example by prioritizing the amplification of the radio signal from the transmitter 140 over the signal from the wired connector 130. In various implementations, the audio input from a source device (e.g., a microphone, instrument, additional connected speaker, or audio gateway) received via the wired connector 130 is received as a digital audio input and converted to an analog audio signal. In certain cases, the transmitter 140 transmits at a frequency of approximately 2.4 gigahertz (GHz).

[0061] Returning to Figure 4, in a particular implementation, the processor 100 is configured to select an audio input (e.g., between transmitters 140A, 140B and connector 130) based on commands from an application running on a connected smart device 400 (e.g., a smartphone, smartwatch, tablet, controller, etc.). In a particular case, the smart device 400 runs or otherwise accesses a program (e.g., an application) configured to control the functions of the loudspeaker 10, such as input selection, volume and / or equalization settings adjustment, power settings (e.g., on / off / standby), etc. In a particular case, the functions of the application may be run on a dedicated controller in addition to or instead of the smart device 400.

[0062] As further shown in Figure 4, the loudspeaker 10 may include a wired power connector 360 for charging the onboard battery and supplying power to the loudspeaker 10 (for example, for connecting to an external power source).

[0063] Dynamic display characteristics Figure 11 shows an enlarged view of a display 500 that may include one or more control elements 24 as shown in Figure 4. The display 500 can be placed on any surface of the loudspeaker 10 and, in certain cases, adjacent to the control elements 24. An example of a control element 24 shown in Figure 11 includes a volume control unit (e.g., a knob) 505 for each of a plurality of inputs (e.g., channel 1, channel 2, and BT input). In certain implementations, the display 500 may include a plurality of sub-displays 510A, 510B, 510C. One or more embodiments of the display 500 may include digital display elements such as digital screens or windows, as shown in, for example, sub-displays 510A, 510B, 510C. In some cases, the sub-displays include organic light-emitting diodes (oLEDs).

[0064] In various implementations, as shown in Figures 11 and 12, the orientation of the display 500 is configured to adjust between a first orientation (Figure 11) and a second orientation (Figure 12) in response to detecting a change in the orientation of the loudspeaker 10. That is, when the orientation of the loudspeaker is adjusted between two or more orientations, the display 500 (including, for example, one or more sub-displays 510A, 510B, 510C) is adjusted between at least two orientations. Figure 11 shows the first orientation of the display 500 relative to the loudspeaker 10, and Figure 12 shows the second orientation of the display 500 relative to the loudspeaker 10. In certain implementations, the orientation of the display 500 is intended to be easily identifiable to the user in a given loudspeaker orientation, and can be read, for example, from left-right and vertical orientations. As described herein, the loudspeaker 10 can be configured to operate in at least three distinct predetermined playback orientations (for example, as shown in Figures 1A, 1B, and 1C). In certain embodiments, a first orientation of the display 500 corresponds to two or more of the playback orientations (for example, as shown in Figures 1A and 1B), and a second orientation of the display 500 corresponds to a distinct playback orientation (for example, in Figure 1C).

[0065] As described herein, the processor 100 is coupled with an orientation sensor 520 (Figure 5) for indicating the orientation of the loudspeaker 10. The orientation sensor 520 may include a gyroscope, magnetometer, accelerometer, and / or inertial measuring unit (IMU) and may be configured to provide the processor 100 with data regarding the change in orientation in response to the detection of a change, such as being corrected by a threshold and / or hysteresis coefficient. In certain examples as shown in Figures 11 and 12, the display 500 includes a set of visual signal indicators 530 corresponding to input channels (e.g., wired channel connections 130A, 130B and / or wireless connections 150A, 150B). As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the visual signal indicators 530 may provide visual feedback regarding signals received in each of the input channels (e.g., via wired connections 130A, 130B and / or wireless connections 150A, 150B). In one embodiment, as shown in the enlarged view of the visual signal indicator 530 in Figure 13, each of the visual signal indicators 530 has a low-signal end 600 and a high-signal end 610 extending between an input channel (connector) 130A, 130B or dock 160A, 160B and a corresponding display screen 510A, 510B associated with one of the channels. According to some implementations, each visual signal indicator 530 is configured to show one or more of the following: i) no signal (e.g., no fill as shown in Ch.2), ii) sufficient signal (e.g., green as shown in Ch.1), or iii) clipping (e.g., inconsistent signal or high signal level, sampled at intervals of up to 50 ms and shown in red as shown in the BT channel, for example). In certain cases, for example, when the loudspeaker 10 is oriented upright (Figures 12 and 13), the visual signal indicator 530 extends from the lower signal end 600 on the left side of the display 500 to the higher signal end 610 on the right side of the display 500.

[0066] In additional implementations, the display 500 further includes a series of visual battery level indicators 620 (Figures 11 and 12) associated with each wireless input channel 150 and corresponding to each of the detachably housed wireless transmitters 140. In certain cases, the battery level indicators 620 may indicate (e.g., in percentage, level, and / or time) the remaining battery level of a transmitter 140 that is not present in the corresponding dock 160. In addition, the battery level indicators 620 may display an indicator that the battery is charging and / or (when applicable) fully charged when the transmitter 140 is in a given dock 160. The battery level indicators 620 may also indicate the battery level of a connected Bluetooth device, connected via the BT channels shown in Figures 11 to 13.

[0067] In certain implementations, the processor 100 is further configured to communicate with an application running on the smart device 400 (Figure 4) to provide additional visual or audible signal indicators. For example, the visual signal indicator on the smart device 400 may be displayed, for example, progressively via an application interface to provide the user with information about the signals received through the input channels. The visual signal level indicator on the smart device 400 may be in a similar format and / or style to the visual signal indicator 530 on the display of the loudspeaker 10, or it may be in a different format and / or style. In various implementations, the visual signal level indicator on the smart device 400 is part of a digital display. Furthermore, the application may initiate an audible signal indicator, such as an audible beep, chime or tone, or clipping sound, via the speaker of the smart device 400 to indicate the characteristics of the signals received on the channel(s). Furthermore, the visual and / or audible signal indicators may include information about adjustments(s) suggested to improve the signals received by the speaker 10. For example, the suggested adjustments may include a message (e.g., visual and / or audible) suggesting that the user adjust a physical connection (e.g., in a wired connector 130) or move the transmitter 140 closer to the speaker 10 (e.g., in the case of a wireless transmitter 140).

[0068] In additional implementations, the processor 100 is configured to provide an error indicator on the display 500 in response to detecting that the speaker 10 is oriented incorrectly for a given playback orientation. For example, the processor 100 may provide an error indicator (e.g., a visual indicator on the display 500 and / or an audible indicator via the transducer(s) 82, 84) indicating that the speaker 10 is tilted or upside down. In certain implementations, a tilted arrangement is indicated by the speaker 10 being between a given playback orientation or in an unstable arrangement. In additional implementations, a tilted arrangement is defined by the speaker 10 being in an orientation other than the three predefined orientations shown in Figures 1A, 1B, and 1C. An upside-down orientation can be defined as any arrangement in which the top surface (e.g., top 51) of the speaker 10 is below the bottom surface (e.g., bottom 52).

[0069] Returning to Figures 11 and 12, in some examples, the display 500 may include three separate sub-displays 510A, 510B, and 510C, each associated with an operable button, knob, switch, etc. In some cases, the operable button includes a control unit 505. Although the button(s) 505 are shown as separate from the associated sub-display(s) 510, in certain implementations, the sub-displays 510 may receive push-button commands in addition to, or instead of, the button(s) 505. That is, the display(s) 510 may include a touch interface (e.g., a capacitive touch interface) for receiving touch commands from the user. In any case, the button(s) 505 (and / or the display(s) 510) may be configured to receive one or more commands, and in certain cases, a long-press command on a given button(s) 505 presents a configuration menu on the associated display(s) 510. The configuration menu may include configuration selection and / or adjustment options for multiple loudspeaker configurations, such as a battery mode (e.g., low power mode), settings (e.g., audio settings such as equalization, or sleep timer settings), and / or a shutdown menu that allows shutting down the loudspeaker 10. In certain implementations, as shown in Figure 4, the display 500 further includes tone matching preset switches 630 for enabling tone matching for each of the input channels, including the radio channel input from the transmitter 140.

[0070] As described herein, the loudspeaker 10 can provide several practical and beneficial configurations for the user, including, but not limited to, the connection of wireless instruments and / or microphones, automatic channel detection and audio adjustment, and dynamic display characteristics. Compared to conventional portable loudspeakers, such as portable PA loudspeakers, the loudspeaker 10 can improve the user experience and offer many benefits.

[0071] One or more components within the loudspeaker 10 may be formed from any conventional loudspeaker material, such as heavy plastics, metals (e.g., aluminum, or alloys of aluminum), composite materials, etc. It will be understood that the relative proportions, sizes, and shapes of the loudspeaker 10 and its components and their functional parts, as shown in the figures included herein, may be merely illustrative of the physical attributes of these components. That is, these proportions, shapes, and sizes can be modified by various implementations to suit various products.

[0072] As used herein, the controller and / or control circuit(s) may include, where applicable, a processor and / or microcontroller, which may include electromechanical control hardware / software, and decoders, DSP hardware / software, etc., for playing (rendering) audio content in the loudspeaker 10 and for communicating with other components within the loudspeaker 10. The control circuit(s) may also include one or more digital-to-analog (D / A) converters for converting digital audio signals to analog audio signals. This audio hardware may also include one or more amplifiers for providing amplified analog audio signals to the loudspeaker(s) 10. In additional implementations, the controller / control circuit(s) may include sensor data processing logic for processing data from sensors.

[0073] The functionalities or parts thereof described herein, and various modifications thereof (hereinafter referred to as "the Functionalities") may be implemented, at least in part, through computer program products (for example, computer programs tangibly embodied in information carriers such as non-temporary machine-readable media for execution by or control of the operation of one or more data processing devices (e.g., programmable processors, computers, multiple computers, and / or programmable logical components, etc.)).

[0074] Computer programs can be written in any form of programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, and can be deployed as standalone programs or in any form, including modules, components, subroutines, or other units suitable for use in a computing environment. Computer programs can be deployed to run on one computer or on multiple computers at one location, or they can be distributed across multiple locations and interconnected by a network.

[0075] The operations associated with implementing all or part of this function can be performed by one or more programmable processors that execute one or more computer programs to perform this function of the calibration process. All or part of this function can be implemented as a special-purpose logic circuit, such as an FPGA and / or ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit). Suitable processors for executing computer programs include, for example, both general-purpose microprocessors and special-purpose microprocessors, as well as any one or more processors of any type of digital computer. Generally, the processor will receive instructions and data from read-only memory, random-access memory, or both. The components of a computer include a processor for executing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data.

[0076] The elements of the drawing are illustrated and described as individual elements of a block diagram. These can be implemented as one or more analog or digital circuits. Alternatively, or additionally, they may be implemented by one or more microprocessors performing software instructions. The software instructions may include digital signal processing instructions. Operation can be performed by the analog circuit or by a microprocessor performing software that performs operation equivalent to the analog operation. Signal lines can be implemented as individual analog or digital signal lines, as individual digital signal lines that perform appropriate signal processing capable of processing distinct signals, and / or as elements of a wireless communication system.

[0077] When a process is represented or suggested in a block diagram, the steps may be performed by one or more elements. These steps may be performed collectively or at different points in time. The elements performing the activities may be physically the same, in close proximity to each other, or physically separate. One element may perform more activities than one block. Audio signals may be encoded or unencoded, and may be transmitted in either digital or analog form. Conventional audio signal processing and arithmetic operations may be omitted from the diagram.

[0078] In various implementations, electronic components described as "connected" can be linked via conventional wired and / or wireless means so that these electronic components can communicate data with one another. Furthermore, subcomponents within a given component can be considered to be linked via conventional paths, although this is not necessarily illustrated.

[0079] Other embodiments not specifically described herein are also within the scope of the following claims. Elements of different implementations described herein may be combined to form other embodiments not specifically described above. Elements may be removed from the structures described herein without adversely affecting the operation of the structures described herein. Furthermore, various distinct elements may be combined into one or more individual elements to perform the functions described herein.

Claims

1. It is a portable speaker, It is an enclosure, At least one electroacoustic transducer for providing an audio output, A processor coupled to at least one of the converters, An audio input module coupled to the processor for receiving an audio input signal, An enclosure housing the at least one converter, the processor, and a battery configured to supply power to the audio input module, An input channel for receiving wired audio input connections, The processor includes at least one wireless input channel for receiving audio input from a source device via a wireless connection, and the processor A portable speaker configured to adjust the audio signal received from the wired audio input connection when the source device is already connected via the wireless connection.

2. The portable speaker according to claim 1, wherein the processor switches the input channel to an effects loop in response to the detection of the wired audio input connection while the source device is already connected via the wireless connection.

3. The portable speaker according to claim 2, wherein adjusting the audio signal includes adjusting the preamplification sequence of the audio signal before providing the audio output.

4. The aforementioned processor further, Receiving the audio input from the source device as a digital audio input via the aforementioned wireless connection, A portable speaker according to claim 1, configured to convert the aforementioned digital audio input into an analog audio signal.

5. The portable speaker according to claim 1, wherein the wired audio input connection includes a chip-sleeve (TS) connection.

6. The portable speaker according to claim 1, wherein the at least one wireless input channel includes at least two wireless input channels.

7. The portable speaker according to claim 7, further comprising at least two wireless transmitters detachably housed within the enclosure, each wireless transmitter for enabling the wireless connection between the source device and a corresponding one of the wireless input channels.

8. The portable speaker according to claim 7, wherein each of the wireless transmitters is configured to connect the source device to the portable speaker in response to detecting a connection with the source device.

9. The portable speaker according to claim 7, further comprising a series of docks for housing the wireless transmitter.

10. The aforementioned processor, The portable speaker according to claim 9, wherein at least one of the wireless transmitters is configured to adjust the audio input signal received from the wired audio input connection to be played back as an effects loop in response to detection that it is powered on and paired with the portable speaker, and detection of the wired input connection.

11. The portable speaker according to claim 10, wherein the processor is configured to adjust the audio input signal from the wired audio input connection and play it back as an effects loop only when the wireless transmitter is powered on and paired with the portable speaker.

12. The portable speaker according to claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to select the audio input based on a command from an application running on a connected smart device.

13. The portable speaker according to claim 1, further comprising a wired power connector for charging the battery and supplying power to the portable speaker.

14. A public address (PA) speaker comprising the portable speaker described in claim 1.

15. A method for controlling a portable speaker having an input channel for receiving a wired audio input connection and at least one wireless input channel for receiving audio input from a source device via a wireless connection, wherein the method is: The steps include detecting a wireless connection with a first source device via the at least one wireless input channel, The steps include detecting the wireless connection with the first source device, and then detecting the wired connection with the second source device via the wired audio input connection, A method comprising the step of adjusting an audio signal from the second source device.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the step of adjusting the audio signal from the second source device includes the step of switching the input channel to an effects loop in response to the detection of the wired connection to the second source device while the first source device is already connected via the wireless connection.

17. The method according to claim 15, wherein the step of adjusting the audio signal includes adjusting the preamplification sequence of the audio signal before providing an audio output in the portable speaker.

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