Hands-free headset switching between corded and wireless modes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hands-free communication devices lack a seamless and convenient method to switch between corded and wireless connections, leading to limitations in mobility and audio quality, with wireless devices requiring recharging and potentially poor audio, while corded devices restrict movement due to entanglement.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a wireless kit with two transceivers that allow for easy switching between corded and wireless connections without interrupting communication, using a dedicated wireless link that can be activated upon disengagement of the wired connection, enabling stable and high-quality wireless communication.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a wireless connection is used for hands-free communication, then mobility and convenience are improved, but audio quality may deteriorate and the device requires recharging

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovemobilityVSAvoidaudio quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The headset is designed with dual functionality to support both wireless and wired connection modes. The wireless module enables mobility and convenience, while the wired module provides stable audio quality and power supply. Users can switch between modes depending on their needs, making the device universal for different usage scenarios.

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

2Reliability

If a corded connection is used for hands-free communication, then audio quality is maintained and the device is always ready for use, but mobility is restricted due to cord entanglement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaudio qualityVSAvoidmobility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The connection mode of the headset is made dynamic rather than static. The device can automatically or manually switch between wired and wireless modes based on usage context. When mobility is needed, wireless mode activates; when stable connection is prioritized, wired mode engages, making the system adaptable to different operational requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If switching between corded and wireless connections is implemented, then flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveflexibilityVSAvoidconnection switching mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The wireless and wired connection components are merged into a single integrated headset design. Both connection interfaces share common hardware resources such as the audio processing circuitry, microphone, and speaker. This integration reduces the overall complexity compared to having separate devices, while still providing flexible switching capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Reliability

If a dedicated wireless link is established between transceivers, then communication stability is improved, but setup complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication stabilityVSAvoidtransceiver configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The transceivers in the headset and base unit are designed to automatically establish and manage the wireless connection. The pairing process is simplified through automatic detection and connection establishment, eliminating the need for manual configuration of technical parameters. The system self-manages the communication link, reducing user burden while maintaining stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP2680550B1Hands-free communication devices for corded and wireless communication
Publication Date: 2018.10.03 GN AUDIO AS
  • EP2680550B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP2680550B1 patent drawingFigure 4~6
  • EP2680550B1 patent drawingFigure 7a~7c

AI summary

A wireless kit for wireless communication between a hands-free communication device and a telecommunication device is provided. Furthermore, a hands-free communication system and a method of enabling wireless communication between a telecommunication device (2) and a hands-free communication device (1), is provided wherein the hands-free telecommunication device (1) is connected to a first transceiver (8), and the telecommunication device (2) is connected to a second transceiver (9), the first transceiver (8) and the second transceiver (9) being connected by releasable connection (10), wherein the first transceiver and the second transceiver are activated upon disengagement of the releasable connection. The wireless kit (20') may comprise a first transceiver (8) configured to connect to the hands-free connector part, a second transceiver (9) configured to connect to the telecommunication device connector part, and a releasable connection (10) positioned between the first transceiver (8) and the second transceiver (9), the first transceiver (8) and the second transceiver (9) being configured to establish a wireless connection (14) there between upon activation.