Audio-Based TV Power State Detection Without HDMI-CEC
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of synchronizing the power states of multiple consumer electronic devices in a home entertainment system, particularly when using an HDMI switch without HDMI-CEC, leads to control inefficiencies and user frustration.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for automatically determining the power state of consumer electronic devices by transmitting a reference audio signal, capturing the playback audio, and comparing it to a threshold to identify if the device is powered on, off, or in standby, using techniques such as cross-correlation, signature analysis, or machine learning-based audio signal analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If HDMI switch does not have HDMI-CEC, then device complexity is reduced, but power state detection capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical HDMI-CEC protocol-based detection system with an acoustic detection system using microphones and audio signal processing. The system captures audio signals from devices, processes them through cross-correlation and spectral analysis, and determines power states based on acoustic characteristics rather than electrical control signals.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple remote controls are used for different devices, then control flexibility is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables devices to automatically detect and report their own power states through acoustic signals. The HDMI switch autonomously monitors device states by processing audio feedback from connected devices, eliminating the need for users to manually control or track each device's state through multiple remotes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where devices emit acoustic signals that indicate their operational state. The HDMI switch captures these signals, processes them to determine device status, and uses this information to automatically control device power states, creating a closed-loop system that reduces manual intervention.
3Measurement precision
If audio signal processing is used for power state detection, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the audio processing functionality from the main HDMI switch control logic into separate dedicated components: audio signal capture modules, cross-correlation processing units, and spectral analysis modules. This modular extraction allows precise power state detection while isolating complexity into manageable, specialized subsystems.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments are provided for automatically determining the power state of a consumer electronic device, such as a television. For instance, a switching device may transmit a reference audio signal to a consumer electronic device for playback thereby. An audio signal captured by a microphone is compared to a reference audio signal. If a level of similarity between the captured audio signal and the reference audio signal meet a threshold condition, then a determination is made that the consumer electronic device is powered on. Otherwise, a determination is made that the consumer electronic device is powered off, in a standby state or muted.