Mobile Device Loudspeaker Activation by Orientation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Mobile devices with multiple loudspeakers face challenges in speakerphone mode, as activating multiple loudspeakers can cause echoes, while using only one loudspeaker results in lower volume, making it difficult to maintain call quality in varying environments.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that allows mobile devices to selectively activate one or more loudspeakers based on user preference or device orientation, using sensors to detect orientation and control amplifiers to adjust loudspeaker usage during calls in speakerphone mode.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If multiple loudspeakers are activated in speakerphone mode, then audio volume is improved, but echo quality deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaudio volumeVSAvoidecho
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the loudspeaker activation by orientation: in portrait orientation, only the first loudspeaker is activated; in landscape orientation, both first and second loudspeakers are activated. This segmentation allows the system to provide higher volume when needed while avoiding echo problems in orientations where the microphone is closer to the loudspeakers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts the number of activated loudspeakers based on the detected orientation of the mobile device. The controller changes the configuration of active loudspeakers in real-time according to whether the device is held in portrait or landscape mode, optimizing both volume and echo prevention based on current usage conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Object-generated harmful factors

If only one loudspeaker is activated in speakerphone mode, then echo is reduced, but audio volume decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveechoVSAvoidaudio volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments loudspeaker activation by orientation: in portrait orientation where echo is less problematic, only one loudspeaker is activated to maintain call quality; in landscape orientation where higher volume is needed and echo is less of an issue, both loudspeakers are activated to provide sufficient audio output.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically switches between single and dual loudspeaker activation based on detected device orientation, allowing it to adapt volume output to match user needs while maintaining acceptable echo levels for each orientation scenario.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If the mobile device adapts to different environments, then call quality is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenvironmental adaptationVSAvoidcontrol system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses the mobile device's existing orientation detection capability (through sensors like accelerometers) to automatically determine whether to activate one or two loudspeakers. This self-service approach allows environmental adaptation without requiring additional sensors or complex user input, leveraging already-present device functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The orientation detection sensor serves multiple functions: it determines device orientation for user interface adjustments and simultaneously controls loudspeaker activation in speakerphone mode. This multi-functionality allows environmental adaptation without adding dedicated complexity for echo control.

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

Data Source

PatentUS9026183B2System and method for making a call via speakerphone in a mobile device
Publication Date: 2015.05.05 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US9026183B2 patent drawing
  • US9026183B2 patent drawing
  • US9026183B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method for making a call in a speakerphone mode in a mobile device including a number of loudspeakers are provided. The system includes a sensor for detecting an orientation of the mobile device, and a controller for activating part or all of the number of loudspeakers, according to a signal sensed by the sensor, when making a call in the speakerphone mode. The system and method can activate all of the number of loudspeakers in a case where the call is made in the speakerphone mode at a higher volume level or only one loudspeaker in a case where a high quality of audio sound is desired despite the volume level being low. The system and method can automatically activate part or all of the number of loudspeakers according to the orientation of the mobile device, sensed by a sensor, thereby enhancing user convenience.