Audio Interface Configuration for Media Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern electronic devices without user interfaces, such as those without screens or keyboards, face difficulties in inputting network configuration data and account credentials for connecting to networks and accessing media content.
Innovation Solution
A configuration device sends network configuration data and account credentials to a target device via an analog audio interface, allowing the target device to connect to a network and access media content without requiring manual user input, using techniques like encoding information into sound or analog carrier signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual input methods (keyboard, screen) are used for configuring network and account settings, then configuration accuracy can be ensured, but the ease of operation deteriorates for devices without user interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
A configuration device acts as an intermediary between the user and the target device. The configuration device captures configuration data from the user (or retrieves stored data) and transmits it to the target device via audio communication, eliminating the need for a user interface on the target device while maintaining configuration capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical input methods (keyboard, touchscreen) with an acoustic communication system. Configuration data is transmitted through audio signals (speech recognition or audio transmission) rather than requiring physical interaction with the target device's interface.
2Loss of time
If configuration data is pre-stored on the configuration device, then configuration time is reduced, but the adaptability to different networks and accounts deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration device pre-stores multiple sets of configuration data (network credentials, account information) before the configuration process. During configuration, the appropriate pre-stored data can be quickly retrieved and transmitted to the target device, reducing configuration time while maintaining the ability to adapt to different networks through multiple pre-configured options.
Solution Approach 2:
The configuration system allows dynamic selection and transmission of different configuration data sets based on the target network or service. The configuration device can adapt which pre-stored credentials to use based on the situation, maintaining versatility while enabling quick configuration.
3Ease of operation
If audio interfaces are used for data transmission, then the ease of operation improves for devices without screens, but the measurement precision of data reception deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the target device confirms successful receipt and processing of configuration data. The configuration device can verify whether the audio transmission was successful and prompt for retransmission if needed, ensuring data accuracy despite the use of audio interfaces.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables easy and efficient configuration of devices without user interfaces, allowing seamless network connections and media access, while also enabling media control functions through remote devices like mobile phones.
Implementation Method 1
the configuration device can embed the connection information into an analog carrier signal, and send the signal to the target device using audio ports on both devices that are configured for sending and receiving analog audio signals
Implementation Method 2
by encoding the connection information into a sound that is emitted by the configuration device (e.g., with a speaker) and received by the target device (e.g., with a microphone)
Data Source
AI summary
A method for configuring a device is performed at a target device with a processor and memory storing instructions for execution by the processor. In some implementations, the target device is a media presentation device, such as a WiFi enabled speaker system. Connection information is received from a configuration device, such as a laptop computer or mobile telephone, via an analog audio interface. The connection information includes first account credentials. In some implementations, the connection information also includes network configuration data such as a name of wireless network and a security key. The target device connects to a server system remote from the target device using the first account credentials.