Audio Playback Control via Message-Based Source Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing media presentation systems lack a simple and unified control method for audio playback devices connected to multiple audio information sources, making it difficult for users to seamlessly switch between different audio sources and adjust volume settings across various devices.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a control method that allows audio playback devices to exchange messages with audio information sources to control settings such as volume and signal sources, using dedicated user input devices for both the playback device and the information source, enabling users to change audio sources and adjust volume settings across a networked system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If audio playback devices are connected to multiple audio information sources, then the versatility and functionality of the system is improved, but the complexity of controlling the system worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal control scheme where a single user input device can control multiple different audio information sources (set-top box, STB, cable box, satellite receiver, etc.) through a unified message exchange protocol. This allows one remote control to perform multiple functions across different device types, resolving the contradiction by making the control system multi-functional rather than requiring separate controls for each source.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary control mechanism where the audio playback device acts as a mediator between the user input device and multiple audio information sources. The playback device receives control messages from the user input device and translates them into appropriate commands for the active audio source, simplifying the control architecture by centralizing the control logic in one component rather than requiring direct control of each source.
2Ease of operation
If dedicated user input devices are provided for both playback device and information source, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control functions of multiple devices into a single user input device. Instead of requiring separate remote controls for the audio playback device and audio information source, the system allows one universal remote to control both through a unified message exchange protocol, reducing the number of physical control devices while maintaining full control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The user input device is designed with universal functionality to control multiple different types of audio information sources and the playback device through a standardized message format. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for device-specific controls while preserving ease of operation across the entire system.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture to control audio playback devices are disclosed. An example audio playback device includes an audio output device to generate audio signals based on a signal source, a device interface to receive a first message from a first audio information source, and a source selector to change the signal source from a second audio information source to the first audio information source based on the first message.