Audio Output Gain Control for Varying Sound Source Impedance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing information processing apparatuses fail to adequately adjust voice signal output levels based on the varying impedance of different sound sources, leading to inconsistent volume levels and potential discomfort in public settings.

Innovation Solution

The apparatus includes a controller that measures the output level of a test signal when a sound source is connected, determining the output gain of the voice signal based on the sound source's impedance, rated power consumption, and internal resistance to adjust the volume accordingly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the information processing apparatus outputs voice signal to different sound sources with varying impedance, then the voice can be presented to users, but the output level becomes inconsistent across different sound sources

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with different sound sourcesVSAvoidoutput level consistency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically adjusts the output gain parameter based on the detected impedance of the connected sound source. By measuring the impedance and selecting an appropriate gain value from a predetermined table, the system maintains consistent output levels across different sound sources with varying impedance characteristics

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs impedance detection to acquire feedback information about the connected sound source characteristics. Based on this feedback, the system automatically adjusts the output gain to achieve optimal and consistent output levels, creating a closed-loop control system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If the output gain is increased to compensate for high impedance sound sources, then the output level improves, but excessive voltage may damage the sound source

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutput levelVSAvoidvoltage damage to sound source
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs impedance detection and gain adjustment before actual voice output. By preliminarily determining the appropriate gain value based on detected impedance, the system ensures optimal output level while preventing excessive voltage that could damage the sound source

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The impedance detection mechanism acts as an intermediary between the audio output and the sound source. It provides critical information about the sound source characteristics, enabling the system to select an appropriate gain value that balances output level and safety

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS20250238188A1Information processing apparatus and control method
Publication Date: 2025.07.24 LENOVO (SINGAPORE) PTE LTD
  • US20250238188A1 patent drawing
  • US20250238188A1 patent drawing
  • US20250238188A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing apparatus includes: a controller; and an audio system. The controller is configured to, when connection between the audio system and a sound source is detected, measure an output level of a test signal output to the sound source, and determine an output gain of a voice signal output from the audio system to the sound source based on the output level.