Audio Playback Group Switching With Unified Volume Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current media presentation systems lack a simple and unified method for users to control audio playback devices connected to multiple audio information sources, such as TVs and network-based sources, which complicates volume adjustments and source switching.
Innovation Solution
The system enables audio playback devices to exchange messages with audio information sources to control volume and source settings using dedicated user input devices, allowing users to manage multiple sources and volumes seamlessly through a network connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users control each audio source separately, then each source can be managed independently, but the control process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines control of multiple audio sources into a single unified interface. The media presentation system integrates TV audio, network-based audio sources, and other sources under one control mechanism, allowing users to adjust volume and switch sources without managing each device separately. This merging of control functions directly reduces operational complexity and time required.
Solution Approach 2:
The control mechanism is designed to be universal across different audio sources. A single volume control and source selection interface works with TV audio, network streams, and other audio inputs, making the system adaptable to multiple functions without requiring source-specific controls. This multi-functionality simplifies user interaction while maintaining comprehensive source management.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the system supports multiple audio sources, then audio versatility is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a media presentation system as an intermediary layer between the user and multiple audio sources. This mediator handles source selection, volume control, and signal routing centrally, shielding users from the underlying complexity of managing multiple audio inputs. The intermediary consolidates control functions while maintaining compatibility with diverse audio sources including TV and network-based sources.
3Ease of operation
If volume settings are maintained across source switches, then user convenience is improved, but system coordination complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the media presentation system monitors active source changes and automatically adjusts volume settings to maintain consistency. When a source switch occurs, the system receives feedback about the new source and actively maintains the user's preferred volume level across different audio inputs. This feedback loop ensures volume continuity while the underlying coordination complexity is managed within the system architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture to control audio playback devices are disclosed. An example first playback device includes a speaker driver, a processor, and a computer readable medium including a set of instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the first playback device to implement a method. The example method includes receiving, from a first audio information source, first audio information. The example method includes playing back the first audio information. The example method includes receiving, from a second audio information source, (i) a first message, and (ii) second audio information. Based on the received first message, the example method includes (i) determining that the first playback device and a second playback device are to playback the second audio information; (ii) stopping play back of the first audio information; (iii) playing back, via the speaker driver, the second audio information; and (iv) sending the second audio information to the second playback device.