Networked Audio System Wireless Wired Topology Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for accessing and playing digital audio in out-loud settings are limited, and there is a need for technology that enhances the way consumers access and consume digital media across various devices and environments.
Innovation Solution
The development of a networked audio system that allows devices to connect via wireless and wired connections, using a mesh network with Spanning Tree Protocol and direct routing, enabling seamless playback and control of audio across multiple zones without the need for physical reconfiguration, and supporting both wireless and wired interfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If devices connect via wireless network only, then portability and ease of setup are improved, but network stability and audio synchronization are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables devices to perform multiple network connection functions - supporting both wireless connectivity for portability and wired connectivity for stability. The zone player can dynamically switch between wireless-only mode and hybrid wireless-wired mode based on availability, making the system universally adaptable to different connection scenarios without requiring separate systems for each mode.
2Adaptability or versatility
If wireless mesh network is used, then flexibility and ease of reconfiguration are improved, but connection reliability and audio synchronization are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its network topology by detecting the presence of wired connections and automatically reconfiguring the audio distribution path. When a wired connection is detected between devices, the system switches to using that wired path for audio transmission, thereby dynamically optimizing both flexibility and reliability based on real-time connection conditions.
3Reliability
If physical reconfiguration is required for network changes, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of operation and user convenience are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic network discovery and reconfiguration without requiring user intervention. The zone player autonomously detects wired connections, determines optimal audio paths, and reconfigures the network topology automatically. This self-service capability eliminates the need for users to physically reconfigure connections while maintaining high reliability through automatic use of stable wired paths when available.
Data Source
AI summary
A computing device may broadcast a first message via a wireless interface while operating according to a first network topology. After broadcasting the first message, the computing device may receive the first message via a wired interface. Based on receiving the first message via the wired interface, the computing device may broadcast a second message indicating a second network topology via the wireless interface. Based on receiving the first message via the wired interface, the computing device may operate according to the second network topology.