Communication Device Automatic Mode Switching via Photodetector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile phones require manual switching between handsfree and non-handsfree modes during phone calls, which is inconvenient for users who need to check information while maintaining the call.
Innovation Solution
A communication device equipped with a photodetector module, processing module, and CODEC module that automatically switches between audio channels based on light variations from an object's position, determining whether to switch to handsfree or non-handsfree mode by converting optical signals to electric current signals and adjusting audio settings accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual switching between handsfree and non-handsfree modes is implemented, then the device structure remains simple, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to inconvenient manual mode switching
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects user actions (covering the microphone with hand or ear) and autonomously switches between handsfree and non-handsfree modes without requiring manual user input. The photodetector module detects light blockage caused by these actions and triggers automatic mode switching, making the system serve itself rather than requiring continuous user control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical switching operations with an optical detection system. Instead of requiring users to physically press buttons or toggle switches, the system uses a photodetector to sense light changes caused by user actions (hand or ear covering the microphone) and automatically triggers mode transitions, substituting mechanical user interaction with optical sensing and automated control.
2Ease of operation
If automatic mode switching is implemented, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases due to additional photodetector and processing modules
Solution Approach 1:
The photodetector module, while adding a new sensing capability, is integrated into the existing communication device architecture and works in conjunction with the processor and CODEC module that already exist for basic phone functionality. This multi-functional integration means the additional component serves the automatic mode switching function while working within the existing system framework, reducing the relative impact of increased complexity.
3Productivity
If manual mode switching is required, then the device complexity remains low, but the productivity deteriorates due to time loss from manual switching operations
Solution Approach 1:
The system proactively detects user actions (such as bringing the phone to the ear or covering the microphone) and preemptively switches modes before the user would need to manually change them. This preliminary detection and automatic response eliminates the time delay associated with manual mode switching, improving productivity by anticipating user needs rather than merely responding to explicit commands.
4Adaptability or versatility
If automatic detection of user actions is implemented, then the adaptability improves, but the measurement precision requirements increase for accurately detecting hand or ear position
Solution Approach 1:
The system monitors changes in light detection parameters (intensity, duration, pattern) to distinguish between different user actions such as hand covering versus ear placement. By analyzing multiple parameters of the light blockage signal rather than relying on a single threshold, the system achieves reliable adaptability to different user behaviors while maintaining reasonable measurement precision requirements.
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
Enables seamless and convenient automatic mode switching during phone calls, allowing users to easily transition between handsfree and non-handsfree modes without manual intervention, enhancing user experience by simplifying operations.
Implementation Method 1
The photodetector module is configured to sense variation of light from an object to obtain an optical signal, and is configured to convert the optical signal to an electric current signal
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a communication device for automatically switching its communication modes and an operating method thereof. The communication device includes a photodetector module, a processing module, and a coder-decoder (CODEC) module. The photodetector module is configured to sense variation of light from an object to obtain an optical signal, and is configured to convert the optical signal to an electric current signal, wherein the light varies with a position of the object from the communication device. The processing module is connected to the photodetector module and is configured to direct the CODEC module to switch between audio channels of the communication device according to the electric current signal so as to change a communication mode of the communication device in a phone call.