Audio Playback Source Switching With Consistent Volume Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current media presentation systems lack a simple and unified method for controlling audio playback devices connected to multiple audio information sources, making it difficult for users to seamlessly switch between different audio sources and adjust volume settings across various devices.
Innovation Solution
The system enables audio playback devices to exchange messages with audio information sources to control settings such as volume and signal source, allowing users to interact with both devices using dedicated user input devices, and maintains consistent volume settings when changing sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If audio playback devices are connected to multiple audio information sources, then the system provides more audio source options and versatility, but the control complexity increases and user operation becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a control device as an intermediary between the user and multiple audio playback devices. This control device receives user input and automatically determines which audio source to switch to, eliminating the need for users to manually navigate through multiple devices and sources. The intermediary handles the complexity of source selection while providing a simple user interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device is designed to work with multiple types of audio playback devices and audio sources simultaneously. It provides a universal control interface that can manage different device types (speakers, headphones, soundbars) and source types (streaming services, local files, Bluetooth devices) through a single unified system, reducing operational complexity.
2Ease of operation
If users can control both audio playback devices and audio information sources with dedicated user input devices, then the control precision and functionality are improved, but the system complexity and difficulty of operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control functions for both audio playback devices and audio information sources into a single control device. Instead of requiring separate input devices for each function, the unified control device handles both device control and source selection through integrated controls, simplifying the user experience while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the control device receives status information from both audio playback devices and audio information sources. This feedback allows the control device to automatically adjust settings and coordinate between devices, reducing the manual control burden on users while maintaining precise control functionality.
3Ease of operation
If the system automatically maintains volume settings when changing audio sources, then the user experience and convenience are improved, but the automation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control device is programmed with pre-configured volume settings for different audio sources and devices. When a source switch is detected, the system automatically applies the appropriate volume setting without requiring user intervention. This self-service approach maintains consistency while minimizing the need for complex real-time automation logic.
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.