Headset Application Mode Switching for Audio Playback Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic devices are cumbersome to use, leading to irritation for users when controlling multimedia services, particularly when interrupted while using audio or video services, resulting in potential loss of information due to the need for manual manipulation to pause or resume playback.

Innovation Solution

A device with a headset application that switches between two active modes based on physical contact: full contact enables full operation, while less than full contact modifies the operation to prevent information loss, such as muting the microphone or recording audio, ensuring seamless playback resumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the user manually controls the device to pause or resume playback, then the user can stop or resume the service, but the user experience becomes cumbersome and information may be lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of useVSAvoidinformation loss
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically detects headset removal and pauses playback without user intervention. The device monitors the physical state of the headset and autonomously controls playback state transitions, eliminating the need for manual pausing operations and preventing information loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors the physical contact state of the headset with the user and uses this feedback to automatically adjust playback behavior. When the headset is detected as removed, the system pauses playback; when reinserted, it resumes playback, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to user actions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Ease of operation

If the user takes out the device from pocket or bag to control playback, then the user can manipulate the device, but the process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of useVSAvoidtime consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The device automatically detects when the headset is removed from the user's ear and pauses playback without requiring the user to take out the device or manually interact with controls. This eliminates the time-consuming process of device manipulation entirely.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system proactively pauses playback upon detecting headset removal before the user needs to resume it. This preliminary action prevents the need for subsequent manual intervention to pause or manage playback state, saving user time and effort.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If the headset is removed during playback, then the user can engage in another activity, but the playback cannot be resumed easily and information is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoidinformation loss
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The system monitors headset presence and uses this feedback to automatically pause playback when removed and resume when reinserted. This creates an adaptive system that responds to user behavior, allowing the user to engage in other activities while preserving the playback position and preventing information loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The playback system dynamically adjusts its state based on the physical condition of headset insertion. The system transitions between play and pause states in response to changing physical conditions, making the service adaptable to user needs while preserving information.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP2508007B1Arrangement in a device and method for use with a service involving play out of media
Publication Date: 2015.01.07 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • EP2508007B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2508007B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

An arrangement in a device 100 for use with a service involving play out of audio from a headset 140 is provided. The arrangement comprises an application 110 for providing the play out of audio to a user of the device, and the application has at least two modes of operation including a first active mode 111, 220 and a second active mode 112, 240. The first active mode corresponds to the headset being in full physical contact with the user and the second active mode corresponds to the headset being in less than full physical contact with the user. The detection of full physical contact of the headset with the user causes the application to be in the first active mode and detection of less than full physical contact of the headset with the user causes the application to switch to the second active mode. The first active mode entails full use and/or operation of the service and the second active mode entails modified use and/or operation of the service. A method for controlling play out of audio from a headset connected to a user device.