Flush Radio Audio Control via Separate Data Interfaces

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing audio arrangements for IP-based single speakers and multiroom systems require control through mobile devices with pre-installed apps, limiting control options when these devices are not available or accessible.

Innovation Solution

An audio arrangement with a flush-mounted radio connected to speakers via separate data interfaces for audio and control data transfer, allowing control of speakers via a radio interface, such as WLAN or Bluetooth, enabling control without mobile devices, and allowing integration into building automation systems for distributed audio control.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If IP-based single speakers and multiroom systems are controlled via mobile devices with pre-installed apps, then the control functionality is available, but the system becomes dependent on mobile devices and applications

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol functionalityVSAvoidindependence from mobile devices
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The flush-mounted radio is equipped with a control unit that can generate control signals independently without requiring mobile devices. The control unit includes input devices (push buttons, touch sensors) that allow direct local control, enabling the system to serve itself and eliminating dependency on external mobile applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit in the flush-mounted radio is designed to perform multiple functions: it can control local speakers, transmit control signals to remote IP-based speakers via data interfaces, and operate independently or in conjunction with building automation systems. This multi-functionality allows the same device to replace mobile device control while maintaining compatibility with existing systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a flush-mounted radio is integrated into building automation systems with separate data interfaces for audio and control data, then control of distributed speakers is enabled, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveintegration capabilityVSAvoiddata interface structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The data communication functionality is divided into separate data interfaces: one for audio data transmission and another for control signal transmission. This segmentation allows each interface to be optimized for its specific function and enables independent configuration and troubleshooting, managing complexity through functional separation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit acts as an intermediary between the flush-mounted radio and IP-based speakers. It generates control signals, transmits them via data interfaces to remote speakers, and coordinates communication between different system components, simplifying the overall system architecture by providing a centralized control point.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3696985B1Audio assembly with flush radio and at least one loudspeaker and a corresponding method
Publication Date: 2022.08.10 GIRA GIERSIEPEN GMBH & CO KG
  • EP3696985B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3696985B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

The invention relates to an audio arrangement comprising a flush-mounted radio and a loudspeaker, wherein the flush-mounted radio is connected to a first audio data source via a first data interface for transmitting audio data and to the loudspeaker via a second data interface for transmitting control commands, and wherein the loudspeaker is connected to a second audio data source via a third data interface for transmitting audio data. A corresponding method is further described.