Headset Proximity Sensor Mode Switching via Wearing Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing headset systems, such as the Jabra Supreme, rely on magnetic sensors to determine the position of the microphone arm, but these systems lack flexibility in mode switching when the detachable wearing device is attached, limiting functionality and battery conservation.
Innovation Solution
A headset system where the proximity sensor on the microphone arm or housing detects different sensor targets depending on the position of the headset unit relative to the wearing device, allowing for mode switching between use and rest positions, and utilizing a magnetic sensor or Hall sensor with magnet targets for position detection, enabling power management and audio property adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a magnetic sensor is used to detect the position of the microphone arm, then the position detection is reliable, but the system lacks flexibility in mode switching when the wearing device is attached
Solution Approach 1:
The proximity sensor is designed to serve multiple functions: it detects both the first sensor target (magnet) on the housing for microphone arm position detection, and the second sensor target (magnet) on the wearing device for mode switching. This multi-functionality allows the same sensor to handle both position detection and mode switching without requiring additional sensors, thereby improving adaptability while maintaining simplicity.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the headset unit is kept in active mode for continuous use, then functionality is maintained, but battery life is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of the wearing device attachment status before transitioning to rest mode. The proximity sensor continuously monitors for the presence of the second sensor target, and upon detection, the system proactively switches to rest mode in advance, conserving battery power while maintaining the ability to quickly resume functionality when needed.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the microphone arm is kept in extended position for optimal audio, then audio performance is improved, but portability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The microphone arm is designed with dynamic positioning capability, allowing it to transition between extended and compact positions. The proximity sensor detects the user's presence and the state of the wearing device, and the system dynamically adjusts the microphone arm position accordingly - extended when the user is present and audio performance is prioritized, compact when portability is needed and the user is absent.
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 seamless mode switching and power management based on the headset's position relative to the wearing device, optimizing battery life and audio performance by using the same proximity sensor for both detached and attached states.
Implementation Method 1
A magnetic sensor in the microphone arm and a magnet in the headset housing are used to sense whether the microphone arm is in the compact position or extended position
Implementation Method 2
the wearing device comprises a second sensor target, which is sensed by the proximity sensor of the headset unit, when the headset unit is moved into the rest position
Implementation Method 3
the proximity sensor is a magnetic sensor, such as a Hall sensor
Data Source
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AI summary
A headset system (10) comprising a headset unit (1) and a detachable wearing device (4). The headset unit (1) comprises a microphone arm (3), which is movable between a compact position and an extended position. A proximity sensor (29; 33) in the headset unit (1) detects whether the microphone arm (3) is in the compact position or the extended position. The headset unit (1) and the wearing device (4) are adapted to be movably attached to each other, so that the headset unit (1) can be moved between a use position and a rest position. The proximity sensor (29; 33) detects, when the headset unit (1) is moved into the rest position.