Systems, methods and apparatus for audio reproduction

Abstract

To provide a system, a device, and a method for low frequency audio range reproduction in a speaker system with a small speaker driver size.SOLUTION: A system 100 includes a media computing device 102, an electronic device 122, and a wireless / wired link 115. Both the media computing device 102 and the electronic device 122 are arranged in a user listening space 103 of a user 101. Transmission of various parts of an audio signal is performed. Only a low frequency audio component of the audio signal is transmitted from the media computing device 102 to the electronic device 122 and reproduced on an auxiliary speaker 124.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to audio processing, and more particularly to systems, methods and apparatus for audio playback between Media Computing Devices and electronic devices. [Background technology]

[0002] Various Media Computing Devices employ speaker systems that fail to optimize the audio playback of the media being played or streamed for the user's listening enjoyment. For example, speaker systems with small speaker driver sizes are unable to adequately reproduce the low frequency audio range. This is particularly problematic for Media Computing Devices that have limited space to adequately accommodate a suitable speaker system to handle the audio playback. This lack of optimization is exacerbated when playing virtual / spatial / surround audio. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 11 / 800,349 (U.S. Patent No. 8,705,748) Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Therefore, what is needed is a system, apparatus, and method for optimizing audio playback on and / or using a Media Computing Device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] One aspect of the present invention provides a system for audio reproduction, the system including an electronic device and a portable Media Computing Device, the electronic device including: 1) a first interface configured to communicate with the Media Computing Device and receive only low-frequency components of an audio signal from the Media Computing Device, 2) a first processing unit configured to process the low-frequency components of the audio signal for reproduction, 3) a first speaker configured to audibly reproduce the low-frequency components of the audio signal such that the low-frequency components complement other frequency components of the audio signal being simultaneously reproduced by a second speaker of the Media Computing Device, and 4) a second interface configured to connect to a power source for powering the electronic device for audibly reproducing the low-frequency components of the audio signal. The Media Computing Device includes: 1) a second speaker; and 2) a second processing unit configured to communicate with the electronic device using a third interface, process the audio signal to extract low-frequency and other frequency components from the audio signal, provide the low-frequency components to the electronic device for processing to be played on the first speaker, and process the other frequency components to be played on the second speaker. Each of the first and third interfaces is either a wired data interface, a wired data and power combination interface, a wireless data interface, a wired data interface and a wireless power interface, or a wireless data interface and a wireless power interface. The second interface is either a wired power interface or a wired data and power combination interface.

[0006] According to various embodiments, the Media Computing Device is either a mobile smartphone, a laptop, a tablet, a TV, a PC, or a media player. Furthermore, the wired data interface relates to USB, the wired data and power combo interface relates to USB Type-C, the wireless data interface relates to Bluetooth, RF, IR, or Wi-Fi, the wireless power interface relates to an inductive connection, and the wired power interface relates to a removable or fixed connection.

[0007] Another aspect of the present invention provides an electronic device for audio reproduction, including: 1) a first interface configured to communicate with a portable Media Computing Device and receive only low-frequency components of an audio signal from the Media Computing Device; 2) a processing unit configured to process the low-frequency components of the audio signal for reproduction; 3) a first speaker configured to audibly reproduce the low-frequency components of the audio signal such that the low-frequency components complement other frequency components of the audio signal being simultaneously reproduced by a second speaker of the Media Computing Device; and 4) a second interface configured to connect to a power source for powering the electronic device for audibly reproducing the low-frequency components of the audio signal. The first interface is one of a wired data interface, a wired data and power combination interface, a wireless data interface, a wired data interface and a wireless power interface, or a wireless data interface and a wireless power interface. The second interface is one of a wired power interface or a wired data and power combination interface.

[0008] According to some embodiments, the power supply is integrated within the electronic device or separate from the electronic device. According to other embodiments, the first interface is a wired data and power combo interface including a link cable receptacle and a link cable controller, the processing unit includes a microprocessor, a digital-to-analog converter, and a power amplifier, and the power supply is a power adapter that also provides power to the Media Computing Device. Furthermore, according to other embodiments, the reproduced low-frequency components complement the reproduced other frequency components by synchronous timing, amplitude matching, phase matching, or any combination thereof.

[0009] In yet another aspect of the present invention, an audio reproduction method is provided. The method includes connecting an electronic device having at least one auxiliary speaker to a Media Computing Device having at least one primary speaker, each speaker having a corresponding position in a user's listening space. The method further includes processing an audio signal via the Media Computing Device to obtain at least one separated audio signal component, playing the first separated audio signal component on the at least one auxiliary speaker, and playing any portion of the audio signal on the at least one primary speaker. The Media Computing Device is portable. The playback of the first separated audio signal component on the at least one auxiliary speaker and the playback of any portion of the audio signal on the at least one primary speaker are synchronized for the user's listening enjoyment. The method may further include synchronizing vibration / motion from a vibration / motion device based on at least one portion of the first separated audio signal component played on the at least one auxiliary speaker. The at least one portion of the first separated audio signal component is based on separating the first separated audio signal component. Also, playing the first separated audio signal component includes playing at least one portion of the first separated audio signal component on at least one auxiliary speaker.

[0010] According to some embodiments, data communication between the electronic device and the Media Computing Device involves the Media Computing Device acting as a host and the electronic device acting as a slave. According to other embodiments, power management between the electronic device and the Media Computing Device involves the electronic device acting both as a host and as a slave. According to yet other embodiments, processing the audio signal to obtain at least one separated audio signal component is performed in conjunction with audio signal virtualization. The audio signal is a multi-channel audio signal, and the at least one separated audio signal component corresponds to a channel extracted or derived from the multi-channel audio signal. Processing the audio signal to obtain at least one separated audio signal component can include separating the audio signal into audio signal components based on frequency bands corresponding to at least one auxiliary speaker determined by the Media Computing Device.

[0011] Some of the advantages of the present invention include: 1) enhanced virtual / spatial / surround audio playback for portable Media Computing Devices, 2) a space-saving solution for optimizing audio playback in or with a Media Computing Device, 3) an energy-efficient solution for optimizing audio playback while providing the necessary power for the Media Computing Device, 4) a flexible solution for accommodating various power adapters for different Media Computing Devices, 5) optimizing audio playback in or with a Media Computing Device, and 6) a scalable and / or dynamic solution for optimizing power management (e.g., dynamically matching power to meet the power needs of the Media Computing Device and electronic devices in real time). These and other features and advantages of the present invention are described below with reference to the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a system for audio playback between a Media Computing Device and an electronic device, according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 illustrates a system for audio playback between a Media Computing Device and an electronic device, according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 3] 3 is a system portion for audio playback between a Media Computing Device and an electronic device, such as that shown in FIG. 2, according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4A] 1 is a system for audio playback between a Media Computing Device and an electronic device integrated with a power adapter, according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4B] 1 is a system for audio playback between a Media Computing Device and an electronic device having a separate power adapter, according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a flow diagram for audio playback between a Media Computing Device and an electronic device, according to various embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary computer system that can be used in connection with one or more embodiments of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Reference will now be made in detail to preferred embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. While the present invention will be described in conjunction with these preferred embodiments, it will be understood that there is no intention to limit the invention to such preferred embodiments. Rather, the intention is to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as may be included within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. The present invention may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In certain instances, well-known mechanisms have not been described in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present invention.

[0014] It should be noted that, in this specification, like parts are designated by like numerals throughout the various views. The various views shown and described herein are used to illustrate various features of the present invention. Unless particular features are shown in one drawing and not in another, it is understood that these features may be adapted to be included in the embodiments shown in those other views as if fully shown, unless otherwise indicated or unless the structure inherently prohibits incorporation of the feature. Unless otherwise indicated, the drawings are not necessarily to scale. Any dimensions shown in the figures are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting on the scope of the invention.

[0015] A system, device, and method for audio playback are provided. The system includes a Media Computing Device and an electronic device connected to optimize the audio playback of playing or streaming media using a combination of their speakers. Each device can be portable, mobile, and / or handheld. The audio playback can include virtual / spatial / surround audio playback. When connected, the Media Computing Device acts as a host for data communication and the electronic device acts as a slave. Thus, the Media Computing Device can process audio signals in either part for playback on either speaker. Furthermore, when connected, the electronic device acts as a host for power management and the Media Computing Device acts as a slave, as needed. The electronic device can be integrated with or separate from a power adapter. A suitable connection between the Media Computing Device and the electronic device can be made via a wireless connection or a single-cable wired connection, depending on the system configuration.

[0016] The present invention advantageously addresses the technical challenge of optimizing audio playback associated with a Media Computing Device. Optimization can be achieved at different levels. Audio is processed on the Media Computing Device side so that every portion can be played back on both the Media Computing Device and the electronic device. The electronic device's speaker(s) and the Media Computing Device's speaker(s) together can provide additional audio processing power / capacity, a higher audio sound stage, and / or improved audio virtualization / spatialization / surround sound, thus optimizing the user's listening enjoyment. For example, a low-frequency portion of the audio signal can be extracted or derived from a multi-channel audio signal and transmitted from the Media Computing Device to the electronic device for playback on its auxiliary speakers. The low-frequency portion of the audio signal can correspond to the a.1 channel of the multi-channel audio signal. If desired, the need to filter out the low-frequency portion at the electronic device can be eliminated. This system therefore advantageously leverages the existing audio processing and audio playback capabilities of the Media Computing Device in supplementing audio playback using a connected electronic device.

[0017] Additionally, the system may advantageously reproduce the less directional, low-frequency portion of the audio signal on the electronic device side and the more directional portion of the audio signal (e.g., other than the low-frequency portion of the audio signal) on the Media Computing Device side. Thus, a user of the Media Computing Device may experience an enhanced audio virtualization / spatialization / surround effect, especially when the speakers of the Media Computing Device are positioned at an optimal distance and height from the user. Furthermore, the electronic device may be configured to provide additional audio processing capabilities (e.g., separating the low-frequency portion into sub-portions). Thus, the system further advantageously provides the electronic device with the ability to complement the audio processing of the Media Computing Device by sharing the audio processing workload as needed.

[0018] With regard to power management, the electronic device can further complement the Media Computing Device by providing power to the Media Computing Device. In this case, the electronic device can be integrated with a power adapter to power both the electronic device and the Media Computing Device. Because the Media Computing Device may require a power adapter to receive its own power, this integration has the advantage of minimizing the number of items a user must carry while also complementing the audio playback of the Media Computing Device. Alternatively, the electronic device can be separate from the power adapter if the electronic device is adapted to be used with a variety of power adapters.

[0019] 1 illustrates a system 100 for audio playback between a Media Computing Device 102 and an electronic device 122, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. The system 100 includes a Media Computing Device 102, an electronic device 122, and a wireless / wired link 115. The Media Computing Device 102 and the electronic device 122 are typically both located within a user listening space 103 of a user 101. The Media Computing Device 102 includes any device capable of processing data, including, but not limited to, audio data associated with video, telephony, or soundtrack media types. For example, the Media Computing Device 102 may be a smartphone 102a, a laptop 102b, a tablet 102c, a television / personal computer (TV / PC) 102d, or a media player. Generally, the Media Computing Device 102 may also transmit the processed audio to primary speaker(s) 104 for audio playback. Thus, the Media Computing Device 102 is associated with the primary speaker(s) 104.

[0020] Electronic device 122 includes auxiliary speaker(s) 124, a power adapter 126, and a power plug 128. Electronic device 122 is powered by power adapter 126, which connects to a power outlet via power plug 128. Electronic device 122 can be integrated with power adapter 126 and power plug 128 or can be separate from power adapter 126 and power plug 128.

[0021] The Media Computing Device 102 and the electronic device 122 may be connected together via a wireless / wired link 115 to communicate with each other. Both the Media Computing Device 102 and the electronic device 122 may implement a common communication interface and protocol to facilitate communication. Communication may include the Media Computing Device 102 transmitting audio data to the electronic device 122. In some embodiments, various portions of the audio signal may be transmitted. For example, only low-frequency audio components of the audio signal may be transmitted from the Media Computing Device 102 to the electronic device 122 for playback on the auxiliary speaker(s) 124. Furthermore, any or other portions of the audio signal may be transmitted from the Media Computing Device 102 for playback on the primary speaker 104. In this manner, the system 100 provides audio playback optimized for the user's listening enjoyment. An audio signal may be any signal containing audio information, including, but not limited to, a multi-channel audio signal (e.g., a stereo audio signal). System 100 may be associated with a multi-channel audio speaker system, including but not limited to a 1.1, 2.1, 5.1, 5.1.2, 7.1, or 7.1.2 audio speaker system. In a preferred embodiment, system 100 is a 2.1 audio speaker system.

[0022] The Media Computing Device 102 can process data including audio processing and virtualization that can be implemented in accordance with commonly-assigned U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 11 / 800,349, now U.S. Patent No. 8,705,748, filed May 4, 2007, entitled "METHOD FOR SPATIALLY PROCESSING MULTICHANNEL SIGNALS, PROCESSING MODULE, AND VIRTUAL SURROUND-SOUND SYSTEMS," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Portable Media Computing Devices may be limited in the number of speakers and / or the frequency response of the speakers. For example, a laptop 102b may only have two speakers (i.e., a stereo 2.0 audio speaker system), each with a frequency response that is insufficient for audio reproduction below 1000 Hz. Therefore, the electronic device 122 can be used to compensate for these low-frequency bands by providing a speaker driver(s) of an appropriate size to reproduce these low-frequency bands of the audio signal. Furthermore, insufficient speakers in the laptop 102b may not provide optimized virtualization for the user's listening enjoyment. For example, two speakers in the laptop 102b can be used to virtualize the audio signal to resemble a 5.1 or 7.1 audio speaker system. However, the virtualization is not optimized due to the insufficient speakers in the laptop 102b. For example, these two speakers may not be able to reproduce the low frequencies of the audio signal (e.g., the bass, which is one channel of a multi-channel audio signal) sufficiently to enhance the virtualization. Therefore, the user's listening experience is degraded.Thus, when optimizing / enhancing virtualization, electronic device 122 can again be used to complement deficient portions (e.g., bass, the low frequency range of the audio signal) by providing speaker(s) (e.g., bass reflex) and / or speaker driver(s) (e.g., woofer) of an appropriate size to reproduce these portions. While it is possible to appropriately size the speakers in laptop 102b, the limited space in laptop 102b often does not facilitate this. Audio processing can further include encoding / decoding the audio signal to enhance certain components of the audio signal.

[0023] 2 illustrates a system 200 for audio playback between a Media Computing Device 202 and an electronic device 222, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. System 200 includes a Media Computing Device 202, an electronic device 222, and a wireless / wired link 215. Also shown are interconnects (e.g., for data, power, or both) connecting different components of system 200 to one another. Whether or not shown, particular interconnects and / or components may be included or rearranged to achieve the audio playback optimization of the present invention. Media Computing Device 202 includes a processing unit 208, memory 210, a data-power (data-pwr) interface 206, speakers 204a and 204b (similar to primary speaker(s) 104), an optional display 213, and a power source 212. Electronic device 222 includes processing unit 229, data-pwr interface 228, data-pwr interface 230, speaker 224 (similar to auxiliary speaker(s) 124), and power supply 226. According to some embodiments, the components within electronic device 222 are separated into two chambers. For example, speaker 224 has an acoustic chamber 232 that is separate from a power chamber 234 that houses the power components of the power supply, alone or together with other components. In other embodiments, speaker 224 has an acoustic chamber 232 that is shared with power chamber 234 that houses the power components of the power supply, alone or together with other components.

[0024] The Media Computing Device is configured such that the processing unit 208 can access data 211, such as audio stream 211a and virtual sound software 211b, stored in memory 210, directly or via the internet, for optimized audio playback, and use audio processing software, such as virtual sound software 211b, to process the audio stream 211a corresponding to the audio signal to generate audio portions (e.g., any portion or portions of the audio signal, including portion(s) corresponding to the entire audio signal), and transmit the audio portions through digital-to-analog converters and power amplifiers via data-pwr interface 206 to speakers 204a and 204b and electronic device 222. The electronic device 222 is configured to receive an audio portion (e.g., only low frequency components of the audio signal) from the data-pwr interface 206 via a corresponding data-pwr interface 228 that complements the data-pwr interface 206 in establishing data communication between the processing unit 229 and the data-pwr interface 206 via the wireless / wired link 215, and to enable the processing unit 229 to process the audio portion through a digital-to-analog converter and a power amplifier for audio playback on the speaker 224.

[0025] The electronic device 222 can be configured such that the processing unit 229 can provide appropriate power from the power source 226 to the Media Computing Device 202 via the data-pwr interfaces 228 and 230 for optimized power management. For example, the processing unit 229 can coordinate with the processing unit 208 to provide or calibrate power from the power source 226 to match the needs of the Media Computing Device 202 or the power source 212 used to power the Media Computing Device 202. This matching can include adapting the voltage and / or power to drive the corresponding components (e.g., speakers 204a, 204b, processing unit 208, display 213). The power sources 212 and 226 can be associated with rechargeable batteries or adapters. The power sources 212 and 226 can be from stored power (e.g., batteries) or constant power (e.g., AC-DC adapters). Thus, the electronic device 222 can be used as an external power bank or portable charger. Similarly, the processing unit 229 can provide appropriate power to the electronic device 222 from the power supply 226 via the data-pwr interface 230 .

[0026] As described above, the data-pwr interfaces 206 and 228 complement each other to enable communication between the Media Computing Device 202 and the electronic device 222, relying on the wireless / wired link 215. The data-pwr interfaces 206 and 228 may be substantially identical. Depending on the implementation, the data-pwr interfaces 206 and 228 may relate to a wired data interface, a wired data and power combo interface, a wireless data interface, a wired data interface and a wireless power interface, or a wireless data interface and a wireless power interface. Additionally, the data-pwr interface 230 may relate to a wired power interface or a wired data and power combo interface. The wired data interface may include, for example, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Type-A connector and / or associated component(s), such that the wired link 215 may be a USB cable. The wired data and power combo interface can include, for example, a USB Type-C connector and / or associated component(s), such that the wired link 215 can be a USB Type-C cable. The wireless data interface can include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, radio frequency (RF) or infrared (IR) transmitter / receiver and / or associated component(s). The wired power interface can include a fixed solder connection or a removable power connection (e.g., pin connection, USB Type-C connection). The wireless power interface can include an inductive connection (e.g., wireless charging).

[0027] To optimize the audio reproduction of the audio signal for the user's listening enjoyment, the audio reproduction of the audio portions from the speakers 204a, 204b, and 224 should be complementary. For example, during processing of the audio signal, the reproduction of non-low frequency components of the audio signal on the primary speakers 204a and / or 204b can be complemented with the reproduction of low frequency components of the audio signal on the auxiliary speaker 224 by utilizing synchronous timing, amplitude matching, phase matching, normalization, or any combination of these techniques. In some embodiments, the positions of the primary speakers 204a and / or 204b and the auxiliary speaker 224 can be arbitrary to the user, requiring calibration of the system. This calibration can be performed manually or automatically. For example, manual calibration can include having the user input the relative positions of the speakers of the Media Computing Device 202 and the electronic device 222. In another example, a microphone may be placed on either the Media Computing Device 202 or the Electronic Device 222 to pick up audio calibration tones emitted from either the Media Computing Device 202 or the Electronic Device 222 when automatically calibrating the system.

[0028] FIG. 3 illustrates a system portion 300 for audio playback between a Media Computing Device 202 and an electronic device 222, such as that shown in FIG. 2, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. Also shown are interconnects (e.g., for data, power, or both) connecting different components of portion 300 to one another. Whether or not shown, specific interconnects and / or components may be included or rearranged to achieve the audio playback optimizations of the present invention. Among other things, portion 300 illustrates an exemplary data-pwr interface 228 and processing unit 229 of electronic device 222, where data-pwr interface 228 relates to a wired data and power combo interface. A corresponding link cable 315 is used to provide a pwr 315a and data 315b interconnection between the data-pwr interface 206 on the Media Computing Device 202 and the data-pwr interface 228 on the electronic device 222. Link cable 315 may correspond to wired link 215. The data-pwr interface 228 includes a link cable receptacle 228a and a link cable controller 228c. The link cable receptacle 228a is configured to communicate with the Media Computing Device 202 via the data-pwr interface 206 and provide power (e.g., received from the power supply 226) to the Media Computing Device 202. The link cable receptacle 228a is connected via interconnect 228b to a link cable controller 228c configured to facilitate (e.g., establish, maintain, or terminate) a connection between the Media Computing Device 202 and the electronic device 222 via the link cable 315. The link cable controller 228c is also connected to the processing unit 229 via interconnect 228d.

[0029] Processing unit 229, which may be similar to processing unit 208 and / or vice versa, includes a microprocessor 229a, a digital-to-analog converter 229c, and a power amplifier 229e. Microprocessor 229a is connected to digital-to-analog converter 229c via interconnect 229b, and digital-to-analog converter 229c is connected to power amplifier 229e via interconnect 229d. Microprocessor 229a is configured to control / operate / manage all data communication, data processing, and power management aspects of electronic device 222 and with Media Computing Device 202. For example, microprocessor 229a may receive any audio portion from data-pwr interface 228, process the audio portion as needed (e.g., no processing, audio enhancement processing, isolating any further audio portions, processing complementary to that performed in Media Computing Device 202, etc.), and send the audio portion through digital-to-analog converter 229c and power amplifier 229e over interconnect 229f for playback on speaker 224. Microprocessor 229a may also communicate with power supply 226 and Media Computing Device 202 to regulate the power needs of electronic device 222 and Media Computing Device 202. As shown, data-pwr interface 230 is associated with a wired data and power combo interface. Data-pwr interface 230 is configured to facilitate (e.g., establish, maintain, and terminate) connections from power source 226 (via link cable 317 with pwr 317a and data 317b interconnects) to data-pwr interface 228 (via interconnect 230a) and processing unit 229 (via interconnect 230b) for powering electronic device 222 and Media Computing Device 202 as needed. Link cable 317 can be similar to link cable 315. Link cable 317 and power source 226 can be integrated within electronic device 222 or separate from electronic device 222.

[0030] 4A illustrates a system 400 for audio playback between a Media Computing Device 202 and an electronic device 222 integrated with a power adapter 426, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. The Media Computing Device 202 includes primary speakers 204a and 204b for audio playback. The electronic device 222 includes a power adapter 426, a link cable 315, a power plug 428, a vibration / motion device 425, and an auxiliary speaker 224. The electronic device 222 can replace or be used as the power adapter for the Media Computing Device. Thus, the combination of the primary speakers 204a and 204b and the auxiliary speaker 224 is configured for optimized audio playback. For example, the primary speakers 204a and 204b can be left and right channels for reproducing mid- to high-frequency audio components (which are generally highly directional) and can be positioned within the user's listening space (e.g., at a height and distance from the user's ears based on their high directivity) to optimize the user's listening enjoyment. Similarly, auxiliary speakers 224 may be for reproducing low-frequency audio components (which generally have low directivity) and may be positioned within the user's listening space (e.g., at a height and distance from the user's ears based on low directivity) to also optimize the user's listening enjoyment. Thus, system 400 is for optimizing audio reproduction.

[0031] 4B illustrates a system 420 for audio reproduction between a Media Computing Device 202 and an electronic device 222 with a separate power adapter 427, in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention. The Media Computing Device 202 includes primary speakers 204a and 204b for audio reproduction. The electronic device 222 is a separate device with a link cable 315 and an auxiliary speaker 224. The electronic device 222 can complement the Media Computing Device's link cable 317, power adapter 427, and power plug 428. Thus, the combination of the primary speakers 204a and 204b and the auxiliary speaker 224 is configured for optimized audio reproduction. For example, the primary speakers 204a and 204b can be left and right channels for reproducing mid- to high-frequency audio components and can be positioned within the user's listening space (e.g., at an optimal height and distance from the user's ears or based on the user's preferences) to optimize the user's listening enjoyment. Similarly, auxiliary speakers 224 may be for reproducing low frequency audio components and may be positioned within the user's listening space (e.g., at an optimal height and distance from the user's ears or based on the user's preferences) to optimize the user's listening enjoyment. Thus, system 420 is for optimizing audio reproduction.

[0032] 5 is a flow diagram 500 for audio playback between a Media Computing Device and an electronic device, according to various embodiments of the present invention. In step 502, a step of connecting an electronic device having at least one auxiliary speaker to a Media Computing Device having at least one primary speaker is performed. Typically, each speaker has a corresponding position within the user's listening space. In a preferred embodiment, the Media Computing Device is a portable device. Connecting the electronic device to the Media Computing Device may include initializing data communication between the electronic device and the Media Computing Device. In this case, the data communication is bidirectional between the electronic device and the Media Computing Device. Connecting the electronic device to the Media Computing Device may be performed via a wired or wireless connection.

[0033] The step of connecting the electronic device to the Media Computing Device may further include initializing power management between the electronic device and the Media Computing Device such that power is provided from the electronic device to the Media Computing Device. Typically, in data communication, the Media Computing Device acts as a host and the electronic device acts as a slave. Also, in power management, the electronic device may act as a host and the Media Computing Device may act as a slave. The host and slave may perform any operations necessary to establish, maintain, or terminate data communication and / or power management, including, but not limited to, negotiation or request-response. According to a preferred embodiment, the step of connecting the electronic device to the Media Computing Device may be performed using a single-cable wired connection.

[0034] In step 504, processing the audio signal to obtain at least one separated audio signal component is performed via a Media Computing Device. Various processing methods can be used, including filtering / extraction methods such as applying a high-pass filter, a low-pass filter, or an all-pass filter. For example, a low-pass filter can be used to obtain only low-frequency signal components of the audio signal. Processing the audio signal to obtain at least one separated audio signal component can be performed in conjunction with virtualization of the audio signal. For example, the audio signal can be virtualized while a low-frequency effect (LFE) channel from the virtualization can be used as the separated audio signal component. Processing the audio signal to obtain at least one separated audio signal component can include extracting an a.1 channel from a multi-channel audio signal (e.g., 5.1) or deriving an a.1 channel from a multi-channel audio signal (e.g., a stereo audio signal, a left and right audio signal). Processing the audio signal to obtain at least one separated audio signal component can include separating the audio signal into audio signal components based on frequency bands. These frequency bands may correspond to an acceptable frequency response range of the at least one auxiliary speaker determined or obtained by the Media Computing Device (e.g., the Media Computing Device may query and / or receive technical specifications and requirements of the at least one auxiliary speaker from an electronic device and at least match / adapt the at least one separated audio signal component thereto). The separation of the audio signal into audio signal components may be based on any technical requirements of the at least one auxiliary speaker. The first separated audio signal component may correspond to a low frequency band below 1000 Hz or any subset thereof (e.g., 20-60 Hz, 60-250 Hz, 250-500 Hz, 500-1000 Hz). Additionally, any portion of the audio signal may include a second separated audio signal component corresponding to any frequency band excluding the low frequency band or any subset thereof.

[0035] In step 506, a step of playing the first separated audio signal component on at least one auxiliary speaker is performed. Similarly, in step 508, a step of playing any portion of the audio signal on at least one primary speaker is performed. The playback of the first separated audio signal component on the at least one auxiliary speaker and the playback of any portion of the audio signal on the at least one primary speaker are synchronized for the user's listening enjoyment. The playback in steps 506 and 508 may include any processing necessary to play any portion of the audio signal on the at least one primary speaker or the at least one auxiliary speaker. Such processing may include, but is not limited to, utilizing a microprocessor, a digital-to-analog converter, or a power amplifier. Processing may also include normalization. For example, the playback of the first separated audio signal component on the at least one auxiliary speaker and the playback of any portion of the audio signal on the at least one primary speaker are normalized such that any playback volume variances introduced by the relative positions of the at least one auxiliary speaker and the primary speaker with respect to the user are optimized for the user's listening enjoyment. In another example, the playback of the first separated audio signal component on the at least one auxiliary speaker and the playback of any portion of the audio signal on the at least one primary speaker are time-synchronized such that any delay time introduced by the relative positions of the at least one auxiliary speaker and the primary speaker with respect to the user is optimized for the user's listening enjoyment by audio calibration.

[0036] In step 510, optionally, a step of synchronizing vibration / movement from the vibration / movement device based on at least one portion of the first separated audio signal component played on at least one auxiliary speaker is performed. The at least one portion of the first separated audio signal component can be based on separating the first separated audio signal component, and playing the first separated audio signal component includes playing the at least one portion of the first separated audio signal component on at least one auxiliary speaker. For example, either processing unit 208 and / or processing unit 229 can further process the first separated audio signal to obtain at least one portion of the first separated audio signal component (e.g., first and second portions of the first separated audio signal component) and play them on the first and second auxiliary speakers with synchronized vibration / movement from the vibration / movement device. Alternatively, a step of synchronizing vibration / movement from the vibration / movement device based on the first separated audio signal component played on at least one auxiliary speaker can be performed. The vibration / movement has the advantage of enhancing the user's listening enjoyment when synchronized with a particular portion of the audio signal (e.g., low frequency signal component, LFE channel, subset of isolated audio signal components). Furthermore, at least one auxiliary speaker can be directed downwards to enhance the playback effect of the first isolated audio signal component or at least one portion of the first isolated audio signal component to improve the user's listening enjoyment.

[0037] 6 illustrates a typical computer system 600 that may be used in connection with one or more embodiments of the present invention. Computer system 600 includes one or more processors 602 (also referred to as central processing units, or CPUs) coupled to storage devices including primary storage 606 (typically random access memory, or RAM) and another primary storage 604 (typically read-only memory, or ROM). As is known in the art, primary storage 604 functions to transfer data and instructions unidirectionally to the CPU, while primary storage 606 is typically used to transfer data and instructions bidirectionally. Both of these primary storage devices may include any suitable non-transitory computer-readable media, including a computer program product, including a machine-readable medium on which program instructions according to one or more embodiments of the present invention are provided.

[0038] A mass storage device 608 is coupled bidirectionally to CPU 602 to provide additional data storage capacity and may include any non-transitory computer-readable medium, including a computer program product, including a machine-readable medium on which program instructions according to one or more embodiments of the present invention are provided. Mass storage device 608 may be used to store programs, data, and the like, and is typically a secondary storage medium such as a hard disk or flash drive. It will be understood that information maintained within mass storage device 608 may, where appropriate, be typically incorporated as virtual memory that is part of primary storage 606. A particular mass storage device, such as a CD-ROM or external flash drive, may also pass data unidirectionally or bidirectionally, respectively, to the CPU.

[0039] CPU 602 is also coupled to an interface 610 that may include one or more input / output devices, such as a video monitor, trackball, mouse, keyboard, microphone, touch-sensitive display, transducer card reader, magnetic or paper tape reader, tablet, stylus, voice or handwriting recognizer, or other well-known input devices, such as, of course, other computers. Finally, CPU 602 may optionally be coupled to a computer or communications network using a network connection, generally indicated as 612. It is contemplated that the CPU may use such a network connection to receive information from or output information to the network in the course of performing the method steps described above. The devices and materials described above are well known to those skilled in the computer hardware and software arts.

[0040] Various embodiments of the present invention further have the advantage of providing: 1) improved audio virtualization / spatialization / surround sound for portable Media Computing Devices; 2) compensation for lack of optimal audio playback in Media Computing Devices; 3) a single cable wired link for data and power solutions that facilitate optimal audio playback; 4) smart intelligence for easy and fast connectivity; and 5) a configurable system that optimizes a user's audio listening preferences.

[0041] Although the present invention has been described in detail for purposes of clarity of understanding, it will be apparent that certain changes and modifications can be practiced within the scope of the appended claims. The present embodiments are therefore to be considered illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention is not to be limited to the details given herein, but may be modified within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. 1. A method for audio reproduction, comprising: connecting an electronic device having a first processing unit and at least one auxiliary speaker to a Media Computing Device having a second processing unit and at least one primary speaker, wherein each speaker of the at least one auxiliary speaker and the at least one primary speaker has a corresponding position in a listening space of a user, and wherein the Media Computing Device is portable; The method further comprises: processing an audio signal via the Media Computing Device to obtain a first separated audio signal component; reproducing the first separated audio signal component on the at least one auxiliary speaker; playing any portion of the audio signal on the at least one primary speaker; wherein the playback of the first separated audio signal component on the at least one auxiliary speaker and the playback of any portion of the audio signal on the at least one primary speaker are synchronized; the first processing unit and the second processing unit are each configured to cooperate with the other to manage data communications and to provide power from the electronic device to the Media Computing Device using a power source of the electronic device; the Media Computing Device is selected from the group consisting of a mobile smartphone, a laptop, a tablet, a TV, a PC, and a media player; A method characterized by:

2. wherein said Media Computing Device acts as a host and said electronic device acts as a slave for data communication, and wherein said electronic device acts as a host and said Media Computing Device acts as a slave for power management, and optionally wherein connecting said electronic device to said Media Computing Device is performed using a single cable wired connection; The method of claim 1.

3. The step of processing the audio signal to obtain a first separated audio signal component is performed in conjunction with the step of virtualizing the audio signal, the audio signal being a multi-channel audio signal, and the first separated audio signal component corresponds to a. one channel extracted or derived from the multi-channel audio signal.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2.

4. processing the audio signal to obtain first separated audio signal components includes separating the audio signal into audio signal components based on a frequency band corresponding to the at least one auxiliary speaker determined by the Media Computing Device; The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. the first separated audio signal component corresponds to a low frequency band below 1000 Hz, and any portion of the audio signal includes a second separated audio signal component corresponding to any frequency band other than the low frequency band; The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. the reproduction of the first separated audio signal component on the at least one auxiliary speaker and the reproduction of any portion of the audio signal on the at least one primary speaker are normalized to optimize any reproduction volume variations introduced by relative positions of the at least one auxiliary speaker and the primary speaker with respect to the user. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. the playback of the first separated audio signal component on the at least one auxiliary speaker and the playback of any portion of the audio signal on the at least one primary speaker are synchronized in time such that any delay time introduced by the relative positions of the at least one auxiliary speaker and the primary speaker with respect to the user is optimized by audio calibration; The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. wherein the step of playing the first separated audio signal component comprises playing at least one portion of the first separated audio signal component on the at least one auxiliary speaker, the at least one portion of the first separated audio signal component being obtained by separating the first separated audio signal component, and the method further comprises synchronizing vibration and / or movement from a vibration and / or movement device with the at least one portion of the first separated audio signal component played on the at least one auxiliary speaker. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. 1. An electronic device for audio reproduction, comprising: a first processing unit configured to communicate with a Media Computing Device using a first interface of the electronic device and to receive a first separated audio signal component from the Media Computing Device; an auxiliary speaker configured to audibly reproduce the first separated audio signal component to complement any portion of an audio signal simultaneously reproduced by at least one primary speaker of the Media Computing Device; a second interface configured to connect to a power source of the electronic device, the first processing unit configured to manage data communications in cooperation with a second processing unit of the Media Computing Device and to provide power from the electronic device to the Media Computing Device using the power source; Equipped with the first interface is selected from the group consisting of a wired data interface, a wired data and power combo interface, a wireless data interface, the wired data interface and a wireless power interface, and the wireless data interface and the wireless power interface; the second interface is selected from the group consisting of a wired power interface, a wired data, and a power combo interface; the Media Computing Device is selected from the group consisting of a mobile smartphone, a laptop, a tablet, a TV, a PC, and a media player; An electronic device characterized by:

10. the first interface is a wired data and power combo interface including a link cable receptacle and a link cable controller, the first processing unit and the second processing unit include a microprocessor, a digital-to-analog converter, and a power amplifier, the power source is a power adapter that also supplies power to the Media Computing Device, and / or optionally the power source is integrated within or separate from the electronic device; 10. An electronic device according to claim 9.

11. the auxiliary speaker having an acoustic chamber, and the power supply having a power chamber separate from the acoustic chamber, the power chamber enclosing power components of the power supply; 11. An electronic device according to claim 9 or 10.

12. the first separated audio signal component reproduced on the auxiliary speaker complements any portion of the audio signal reproduced on the at least one primary speaker by synchronous timing, amplitude matching, phase matching, or any combination thereof, of any portion of the audio signal; 12. An electronic device according to claim 9, 10 or 11.

13. 1. A system for audio reproduction, comprising: An electronic device according to any one of claims 9 to 12; the portable Media Computing Device; Equipped with the Media Computing Device: the at least one primary speaker; the second processing unit; Including, the second processing unit is configured to communicate with the electronic device using a third interface, process the audio signal such that the first separated audio signal component is extracted from the audio signal, provide the first separated audio signal component to the electronic device for playback on the auxiliary speaker, and process any portion of the audio signal for playback on the at least one primary speaker; the second processing unit and the first processing unit are each configured to cooperate with the other to manage data communications and to provide power from the electronic device to the Media Computing Device using the power source; the third interface is selected from the group consisting of a wired data interface, a wired data and power combo interface, a wireless data interface, the wired data interface and a wireless power interface, and the wireless data interface and the wireless power interface; A system characterized by:

14. the Media Computing Device is handheld and includes a display; The system of claim 13.

15. the wired data interface comprises a USB connector, the wired data and power combo interface comprises a USB Type-C connector, the wireless data interface comprises a Bluetooth, RF, IR, or Wi-Fi transceiver, the wireless power interface comprises an inductive connection, and the wired power interface comprises a removable connection or a fixed connection; 15. A system according to claim 13 or 14.

Images