Audio Effect Apparatus Single Control Switching and Level Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional audio effect applying apparatuses require separate controls for switching connections between effectors and adjusting signal levels, leading to increased operational complexity and space requirements on the control panel.
Innovation Solution
An audio effect applying apparatus that uses a single control unit to switch connections between effectors and adjust signal levels by displacing a control unit from its reference position, allowing for intuitive operation without expanding the control panel space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate controls are provided for switching connections between effectors and adjusting signal levels, then the functionality and versatility of the effect applying apparatus is improved, but the device complexity and control panel space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the connection switching function and signal level adjustment function into a single control unit. The control unit has a reference position where both functions are inactive, and when displaced in a first direction, it simultaneously establishes the connection between effectors while adjusting the signal level, eliminating the need for separate controls and reducing panel space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it can switch connections between effectors, adjust signal levels, and maintain an inactive state at its reference position. This multi-functional design allows a single control element to replace what would traditionally require separate controls, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining full functionality.
2Ease of operation
If multiple controls are provided on the operating panel for connection switching and level adjustment, then the ease of operation for each function is improved, but the operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the connection switching and level adjustment operations into a single control unit, the patent reduces the number of control elements the user must interact with. The unified control mechanism simplifies the operational workflow while maintaining the ability to perform both functions independently and simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit's ability to perform multiple functions (switching and level adjustment) through a single interface reduces operational complexity. Users interact with one control element rather than coordinating multiple separate controls, making the system easier to operate despite its enhanced functionality.
3Device complexity
If a single control unit is used for both connection switching and level adjustment, then the device complexity and control panel space are reduced, but the ease of operation may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit's operation is segmented into distinct directional movements: displacement in the first direction activates connection switching, while displacement in the second direction activates level adjustment. This segmentation allows independent control of each function through directional differentiation, maintaining ease of operation despite the unified control structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit employs dynamic directional displacement to differentiate between functions. By allowing the control element to move in different directions (first direction for connection, second direction for level), the system maintains intuitive and easy operation while achieving functional integration and reduced complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
When a knob is at a center position, transmission levels of first volumes of signals input to a first effector (32c) and of second volumes of signals input to a second effector (32e) are both zero: first effector (32a) and second effector (32b) operate independently. When the knob is displaced to right side from the center position, the transmission level of the second volumes (32e) is controlled according to the displacement amount, but the transmission level of the first volumes (32c) stays at zero: the second effector (32b) is connected in series to the first effector (32a). When the knob is displaced to left side from the center position, the transmission level of the first volumes (32c) is controlled according to the displacement amount, but the transmission level of the second volumes (32e) stays at zero: the first effector (32a) is connected in series to the second effector (32b).