Handheld Device Sound Module Orientation Switching

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Handheld electronic devices with integrated multimedia functions face challenges in determining the correct orientation for call operations, leading to potential failed calls when held upside down due to ambiguous design cues.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a motion detecting module, such as an acceleration detector or gyro, to automatically switch between different sound outputting and receiving modules based on the device's orientation, ensuring proper call functionality even when held inverted, and adjusting power and mode for various operation demands like audio-visual playback.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the device uses a single set of sound outputting and receiving modules disposed on specific sides, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot function properly when held in different orientations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecall function adaptability to different orientationsVSAvoidstructure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device divides the sound outputting and receiving modules into multiple sets (first set on first side, second set on second side), with each set independently capable of functioning. This segmentation allows the device to adapt to different holding orientations by activating the appropriate set, while maintaining relatively simple individual module structures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The device makes different sides of the body universal by placing complete sets of sound outputting and receiving modules on each side. Each side can independently serve as a functional interface for calls, allowing the device to be used in multiple orientations without requiring additional components or complex switching mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If the device provides clear orientation indicators on the appearance, then the user can easily identify the correct holding direction, but the appearance design becomes more complex and less versatile

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveorientation identification easeVSAvoidappearance design flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The device uses its own functional components (sound outputting and receiving modules) to provide orientation indication. When a user holds the device, the side with the active modules naturally indicates the correct orientation through the device's operational state, eliminating the need for separate visual indicators while maintaining design flexibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If the device activates sound modules based on detected orientation, then call functionality is maintained in any orientation, but the control system becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecall function reliabilityVSAvoidcontrol system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The motion detecting module continuously monitors the device's orientation and provides feedback to the control module. Based on this feedback, the control module automatically activates the appropriate set of sound modules (first set or second set), ensuring reliable call functionality in any orientation while using a relatively simple feedback-based control mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

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 successful phone calls when the device is held upside down and optimizes operation modes for different orientations, enhancing user experience and product functionality by ensuring correct sound module activation and power management.

Implementation Method 1

a motion detecting module, such as an acceleration detector or gyro

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGravitation: Gravitation

Implementation Method 2

a motion detecting module, such as an acceleration detector or gyro

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAccelerometer: Accelerometer

Data Source

PatentUS8374595B2Handheld electronic device and operating method thereof

Publication Date: 2013.02.12 HTC CORP

AI summary

A handheld electronic device and an operating method thereof are provided, in which at least two sets of sound outputting modules and sound receiving modules are disposed in the handheld electronic device. The operating method detects an orientation of the handheld electronic device by a motion detecting module and enables different sets of the sound outputting modules and the sound receiving modules according to a variation of the orientation of the handheld electronic device, so as to change a direction of a call operation, and thus a user can successfully make a phone call, even if the handheld electronic device is held upside down. Furthermore, the operating method can control the sound outputting modules and the sound receiving modules individually or collectively according to actual demands to achieve a multifunctional product design.