Browser Audio Controls for Independent Source Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing web browsers lack the ability to independently control audio signals from websites, forcing users to adjust all audio simultaneously, including both desirable and undesirable sounds, using desktop controls.
Innovation Solution
Integrating audio controls within the browser application that allow users to mute or adjust volume levels for specific audio sources, with settings remembered and applied automatically upon detection, using a data structure to store user preferences for audio sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If desktop audio controls are used to adjust all audio signals, then volume control functionality is provided, but both desirable and undesirable audio signals are adjusted together
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the audio control system into separate controls for each audio source. Instead of a single desktop control affecting all audio, the browser presents individual audio controls (mute button, volume slider) for each web page's audio signal, allowing users to segment control by source and adjust each independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by providing customized audio control functionality specifically within the browser interface for web-based audio sources. Each audio source receives tailored controls (mute, volume) that are locally adapted to that source, rather than applying a universal control mechanism to all audio systemically.
2Adaptability or versatility
If browser-specific audio controls are implemented, then selective control of audio sources is enabled, but additional interface elements are added to the browser
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges audio controls with the existing browser interface by integrating them into the browser window and tab structure. The audio controls are combined with the address bar and navigation elements, creating a unified interface rather than adding completely separate control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates multi-functional browser elements that serve both navigation and audio control purposes. The tab bar and address bar area are designed to simultaneously display URL information and audio control buttons, allowing these interface elements to perform multiple functions and reducing overall interface complexity.
3Ease of operation
If audio control settings are remembered and automatically applied, then user convenience is improved, but data storage and retrieval mechanisms are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by automatically recalling and applying previously stored audio control settings when a user revisits a web page. The system proactively retrieves stored mute and volume preferences and applies them without requiring user input, performing the setting restoration action in advance of the user needing it.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a feedback loop where user audio control actions (muting, volume adjustment) are stored and then fed back to the user when they return to the same audio source. The system monitors user interactions, stores the settings associated with each audio source identifier, and automatically reapplies them, creating a closed-loop feedback system that improves ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
One or more audio controls are presented in a browser application to allow a user to adjust one or more audio signals (e.g., mute, adjust volume) provided by one or more audio sources (e.g., websites). In some aspects, the browser application remembers the user's audio control settings for audio sources and automatically applies those settings to the audio controls when audio signals from the audio sources are detected.