Audio Device Parameter Selection via Control Locking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional digital mixers face inefficiencies in parameter selection due to large selection lists and the need for individual parameter setting for each channel, leading to time-consuming and labor-intensive tasks.

Innovation Solution

An audio device that allows intuitive parameter selection by locking control settings and visually indicating selected parameters, enabling users to select desired parameters through direct control operation and display interface, while maintaining current settings and allowing fine parameter selection not available in conventional lists.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conventional selection list is used to select parameters for storage, then parameters can be selected and stored, but the selection process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive due to the large number of channels (256 or 512) and parameter items

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveparameter selection accuracyVSAvoidparameter selection time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the parameter selection process by dividing it into two distinct modes: a first mode for intuitively selecting parameters through control operations, and a second mode for individually setting parameters via a selection list. This segmentation allows users to choose the appropriate mode based on their needs, thereby reducing overall selection time while maintaining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent inverts the conventional approach by allowing users to select parameters through direct control operations (first mode) rather than requiring them to search through a large selection list. This inversion makes the selection process more intuitive and significantly reduces the time and effort required, while still providing the option for individual parameter setting when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Ease of operation

If individual parameter selection is required for each channel, then specific parameters can be precisely selected, but the task becomes labor-intensive and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveparameter selection easeVSAvoidparameter selection efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces dynamic switching between two operational modes for parameter selection. The first mode enables intuitive selection through control operations, significantly improving ease of operation. The second mode provides individual parameter setting capability when precise control is needed. This dynamic approach balances ease of operation with selection precision, eliminating the need for labor-intensive individual setting in all cases.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent makes the parameter selection system multi-functional by incorporating both intuitive control-based selection and traditional list-based individual selection within the same device. This universality allows the system to adapt to different user needs and task requirements, improving overall productivity by providing the most efficient selection method for each specific situation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If controls are allowed to move freely during parameter selection, then users can adjust settings, but the current setting states may be accidentally changed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol adjustment flexibilityVSAvoidsetting state stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by acquiring and storing the positions of controls before enabling their movement during parameter selection. This allows the system to restore controls to their original positions if needed, ensuring that current setting states are not accidentally changed while still providing users with the flexibility to adjust controls when intended.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms that provide visual or tactile indication when controls are operated during parameter selection. This feedback helps users understand which control operations will affect parameter selection versus which operations might change setting states, thereby maintaining reliability while preserving adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS8170240B2Audio device

Publication Date: 2012.05.01 YAMAHA CORP

AI summary

An audio device has controls for setting parameters. In the audio device, a selection mode setting part sets a selection mode in which a parameter to be stored is selected. A position acquisition part acquires positions of the controls and locks setting states of the parameters that are set by the controls, when the selection mode is set by the selection mode setting part. A parameter selection part detects one or more control operated by a user among the controls and selects each parameter corresponding to each operated control among the controls as a parameter to be stored, after the setting states of the parameters are locked by the position acquisition part. A reset part returns positions of the controls to the positions acquired by the position acquisition part and memorizes a selection status of each parameter which indicates whether each parameter is selected or not, when the selection mode is completed.