Wireless Headset Program Activation via Integrator Bridge

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wireless headset systems lack the ability to automatically launch software programs on attached processor-based hosts without manual intervention, limiting user convenience and efficiency in hands-free operations.

Innovation Solution

A wireless audio headset system that includes a headset base and a wireless headset capable of transmitting a key code to activate a target application program on a processor-based host via a headset integrator application, using DECT technology and USB communication to facilitate automatic program launch.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a wireless headset system is used without program activation capability, then the device structure remains simple, but user convenience and operational efficiency are reduced due to lack of automatic program launching

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser convenienceVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The wireless headset is enhanced with program activation capability, allowing it to perform both audio functions and application launching functions. The programmable buttons on the headset can be configured to launch different applications, making the headset a multi-functional device that combines audio output with system control capabilities.

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

Solution Approach 2:

A host computer with integrator software acts as an intermediary between the wireless headset and the target application programs. The integrator software receives activation signals from the headset buttons and automatically launches the corresponding applications, providing a bridge that enables program activation without requiring direct integration between the headset and each application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If manual program launching is required, then the headset system remains simple, but productivity and operational efficiency are reduced due to lack of automatic program activation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Application programs are pre-configured and associated with specific headset buttons through the integrator software. This preliminary configuration allows the system to automatically launch the correct application when a button is pressed, eliminating the need for manual navigation and improving operational efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables automatic program activation where the headset and integrator software work together to self-activate applications without requiring user intervention. When a user presses a programmed button, the system automatically detects the input and launches the corresponding application, providing a hands-free operational experience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If program activation mechanisms are integrated into the wireless headset, then hands-free operation capability is enhanced, but the complexity of the headset system increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehands-free operation capabilityVSAvoidheadset system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The wireless headset integrates program activation functionality alongside its audio functions, allowing it to serve as both an audio output device and a system control interface. The programmable buttons can be configured for different applications, enhancing the headset's versatility and hands-free operation capability.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The integrator software on the host computer serves as an intermediary that manages the complexity of program activation. It handles the mapping between headset buttons and target applications, reducing the burden on the headset hardware while enabling sophisticated hands-free operation capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS8755845B2Wireless headset systems and methods for activating application programs on processor-based host
Publication Date: 2014.06.17 HEWLETT PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LP
  • US8755845B2 patent drawing
  • US8755845B2 patent drawing
  • US8755845B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Wireless audio headset systems and methods for automatically activating target application programs on an attached processor-based host are disclosed. The system generally includes a headset base to communicate with the host executing a headset integrator application, a wireless headset in wireless communication with the headset base and configured to transmit audio signals to and from the headset integrator application via the headset base, and a program activation mechanism provided by the wireless headset that, upon activation of the mechanism, activates a target application program on the processor-based host via the headset base and the headset integrator application.