Glove-Operated Remote Control Device for Mobile Audio Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sports enthusiasts face difficulties in operating mobile devices and answering calls while engaging in activities due to the challenges of handling devices with gloves or equipment, requiring a solution that allows for convenient control of audio and call management without removing gloves.
Innovation Solution
A control device with a top surface, bottom surface, and circuitry for communicating with mobile devices and headsets, featuring buttons and a microphone that can be manipulated by users wearing gloves, enabling control of audio signals and phone calls, and a securement mechanism for attachment to clothing or equipment, allowing operation in wet conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users operate mobile devices directly while wearing gloves, then device control is possible, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in handling small buttons and interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the mobile device into two separate components: the mobile device itself and a remote control device. The remote control device has larger buttons and controls that are easier to operate while wearing gloves, while the mobile device retains its original functionality. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by providing a dedicated control interface optimized for gloved operation without modifying the original mobile device.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote control device acts as an intermediary between the user and the mobile device. It receives user inputs through its optimized controls and transmits these commands to the mobile device via wireless communication. This intermediary resolves the contradiction by bridging the gap between the user's gloved hands and the mobile device's small interface elements.
2Ease of operation
If users remove gloves to operate mobile devices, then ease of operation improves, but loss of time increases due to stopping activity and removing/putting on gloves
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control device is prepared in advance with larger, easier-to-press buttons and controls that are specifically designed for gloved operation. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need to remove gloves during activities, as the control device is already optimized for the intended usage condition. The user can immediately operate the remote control without any preparation or time loss.
3Adaptability or versatility
If mobile devices are made smaller and more portable, then adaptability improves for sports activities, but ease of operation worsens due to smaller buttons and controls
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control functionality into two devices: a compact mobile device that maintains portability and adaptability for sports activities, and a separate remote control device that provides larger, easier-to-operate controls. The mobile device remains small and portable, while the remote control compensates for the reduced size by offering a more ergonomic interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension to the control system by introducing a separate remote control device that operates in parallel with the mobile device. This additional dimension provides an alternative control interface that is optimized for ease of operation, while the original mobile device maintains its compact form factor for portability.
Data Source
AI summary
Media control devices, methods and systems for communicating with mobile devices and headsets are disclosed. At least one control device may include a top surface, a bottom surface, circuitry for communicating with mobile devices and headsets, at least one button designed to be manipulated by users wearing gloves; a microphone for receiving audio input from the users, and a securement mechanism for securing the control device to the users' person, clothing and/or equipment.