Dynamic Audio Device Selection Based on User Location
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing personal assistant applications require users to be relatively close to the listening device to provide audible input, which is inconvenient in many situations.
Innovation Solution
A system that determines the most appropriate device to participate in audio communication based on user location, using a processor to receive location information and activate the necessary apparatuses for receiving and providing audio data, such as microphones and speakers, while deactivating unnecessary devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a personal assistant application uses a fixed listening device for audio input, then the system structure is simple, but the user must be relatively close to the listening device which reduces convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the audio communication function across multiple devices (listening device, output device, and intermediate devices). Each device is selected dynamically based on user location, allowing the system to segment the audio pathway into optimal segments rather than using a single fixed device for both input and output.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects which devices to activate for audio communication based on real-time user location data. The processor determines the user's position and automatically activates the most appropriate listening and output devices, making the system adaptive rather than static.
2Ease of operation
If multiple apparatuses are activated for audio communication, then user convenience is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system activates only the necessary subset of devices required for optimal audio communication based on user location, rather than keeping all devices continuously active. The processor evaluates user position and selectively activates the minimum number of devices needed for effective audio input and output.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically manages device activation without requiring user intervention. The processor monitors user location and autonomously determines which devices to activate or deactivate, allowing the system to self-optimize its energy consumption based on actual usage requirements.
3Productivity
If the system automatically selects devices based on location, then audio communication efficiency is improved, but the complexity of device coordination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The processor performs multiple functions: it tracks user location, determines optimal device selection, and coordinates activation/deactivation of audio devices. This multi-functionality is consolidated in the processor, simplifying the overall system architecture despite the complexity of device coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors user location and uses this feedback to dynamically adjust device activation. The processor receives location information, processes it to determine optimal device selection, and adjusts the audio communication pathway accordingly, creating a closed-loop system that adapts to changing conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, a first device includes a processor and storage accessible to the processor. The storage bears instructions executable by the processor to receive information pertaining to a location of a user and, based at least in part on the information, determine an apparatus to actuate from among plural apparatuses to participate in communication concerning audio data. The instructions are also executable to, based at least in part on the determination, participate in communication with the apparatus concerning audio data.