Dynamic Audio Jack Color Coding for Retasking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional color coded connectors for multimedia systems are inflexible in handling dynamically changing use and assignments of HD audio devices, which complicates user experience and does not support dynamic retasking of functions.
Innovation Solution
An HD audio system with an audio codec and a light source that automatically adjusts the color code of the I/O port based on the task performed, allowing for dynamic retasking without user intervention, by identifying plugged-in multimedia devices and changing the task and color code accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional color coded connectors are used for multimedia systems, then the initial connection setup is simplified, but the system cannot dynamically adapt to changing device assignments and functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the color coding system changeable rather than fixed. The audio codec dynamically adjusts the color of connectors based on real-time device assignments and functional changes, allowing the system to adapt to varying multimedia configurations without requiring physical reconfiguration or user intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent directly implements color changes as the core mechanism for indicating functional changes. Different colors represent different task assignments or connection states, providing visual feedback to users about the current system configuration and enabling intuitive understanding of dynamic retasking operations.
2Reliability
If multiple cables are used for 5.1 or 7.1 channel surround sound audio output, then audio quality is improved, but the complexity of cable connections increases and causes user confusion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color-coded connectors to differentiate between various audio channels and connection types. Each connector is assigned a specific color corresponding to its function (e.g., front left, front right, center, surround), making it easier for users to correctly connect multiple cables without confusion, thereby maintaining audio quality while improving ease of operation.
3Loss of information
If color coded connectors are used to indicate task assignments, then user understanding is improved, but the system cannot signal errors or unsupported functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the color coding system to include error signaling. Specific colors or color combinations indicate unsupported functions or incorrect device connections, providing immediate visual feedback to users about configuration errors. This enhances the system's ability to communicate both valid and invalid states, improving both information clarity and adaptability.
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
This solution enhances user experience by simplifying the connection of HD audio components, automatically disabling unused components and signaling errors, thus improving usability and reducing confusion.
Implementation Method 1
a corresponding light source being controlled by the audio codec to emit a color in accordance with a task performed by the I/O port
Data Source
AI summary
For dynamically adjusting a color code corresponding to a task performed by an input/output (I/O) port, a retasking request for the I/O port is received. The retasking request may be generated in response to detecting a plugging in of a multimedia device into the I/O port. The retasking request includes switching the task from a first task to a second task. In response to the retasking request the task performed by the I/O port is automatically reconfigured from the first task to the second task. The color code is automatically changed from a first color code corresponding to the first task to a second color code corresponding to the second task in response to the reconfiguring, without user intervention.