Bluetooth Earbud Location Detection for Wireless Audio Zone Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conducted loop systems require physical installation of induction loop cables, limiting their configurability and flexibility in providing amplified audio to hearing-impaired individuals without distortion and background noise.
Innovation Solution
A Bluetooth-based system that determines the location of a wireless device relative to a source device using a wave signal and advertisement packets, allowing actions to be initiated or prevented based on predefined zones, thereby eliminating the need for physical induction loop cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conducted loop system with induction loop cable is used, then hearing-impaired patrons can receive amplified audio without distortion and background noise, but the system lacks configurability and flexibility due to physical installation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical induction loop cable system with a wireless Bluetooth-based system. The source device transmits audio signals wirelessly to wireless devices (hearing aids, headphones, etc.), eliminating the need for physical cable installation while maintaining audio quality. This substitution enables flexible reconfiguration and movement without being constrained by fixed cable routing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic zone-based control where the system can adapt to different spatial configurations. Predetermined zones can be defined and modified, allowing the audio transmission system to dynamically adjust its coverage areas and operational parameters based on user needs and environmental conditions, providing both reliability and adaptability.
2Reliability
If a conducted loop system with induction loop cable is used, then audio can be transmitted to wireless devices, but the physical installation limits the system's flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical induction loop cable system with a wireless Bluetooth-based system. The source device transmits audio signals wirelessly to wireless devices (hearing aids, headphones, etc.), eliminating the need for physical cable installation while maintaining audio quality. This substitution enables flexible reconfiguration and movement without being constrained by fixed cable routing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If Bluetooth-based location determination is implemented, then wireless devices can initiate actions based on location, but the system complexity increases compared to conducted loop systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a zone management system where a single Bluetooth infrastructure serves multiple functions: audio transmission, location determination, and action initiation. The same Bluetooth connection and signal processing capabilities are reused across different functions, reducing overall system complexity despite the enhanced adaptability and location-based control features.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides flexible and configurable audio amplification by allowing wireless devices to initiate actions, such as playing audio or forming connections, based on their location relative to the source device, enhancing user experience without the limitations of physical cabling.
Implementation Method 1
based on a wave signal transmitted from one of the first device or the second device to the other of the first device or the second device
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, devices, and methods for initiating an action based on location of a first device are provided. The first device, such as an earbud, includes a Bluetooth receiver. The Bluetooth receiver is configured to receive a wave signal transmitted by a second device, such as a smartphone. The first device further includes a processor. The processor is configured to calculate a location of the first device relative to the second device based on the wave signal. The processor is further configured to determine a zone status of the first device based on the location of the first device relative to the second device and a predetermined zone. The processor is further configured to initiate the action based on the zone status.