Mobile Terminal Audio Path Switching via Movement Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for an efficient method to control mobile terminals when an external terminal configured to assist audio output is connected, as existing solutions do not effectively manage audio output switching during calls or music playback.

Innovation Solution

A mobile terminal with a wireless communication unit, sensing unit, and audio output unit that detects movement to switch audio output between internal and external terminals, allowing seamless call handling and music playback.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If audio output is performed via an external terminal when connected, then audio quality and output capability are improved, but the ability to switch to internal audio output for calls is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaudio output configurationVSAvoidcall handling
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The audio output configuration is made dynamic by detecting terminal movement states. When the terminal is stationary, audio outputs via the external terminal for enhanced quality. When movement is detected (indicating the user is carrying the terminal), the system automatically switches to internal audio output, enabling seamless call handling without manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If the terminal is carried by the user during a call, then portability is improved, but audio output via external terminal cannot be maintained

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveportabilityVSAvoidaudio output configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The sensing unit continuously monitors the terminal's movement state and provides feedback to the controller. This feedback mechanism enables the system to automatically adjust the audio output configuration based on whether the terminal is being carried or placed on a surface, ensuring appropriate audio routing without user input.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Ease of operation

If automatic switching based on movement is implemented, then user convenience is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaudio switchingVSAvoidcontrol mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by automatically detecting its own movement state and autonomously switching audio output configurations. The sensing unit and controller work together to manage the switching logic without requiring user intervention, simplifying the user interface while adding intelligent automation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 efficient audio output management by switching between internal and external audio paths based on user intent, improving user experience during calls and music playback.

Implementation Method 1

a sensing unit configured to detect a movement of the mobile terminal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAcceleration sensing: Accelerometer

Data Source

PatentUS10917508B2Mobile terminal that switches audio paths based on detected movement of the terminal
Publication Date: 2021.02.09 LG ELECTRONICS INC
  • US10917508B2 patent drawing
  • US10917508B2 patent drawing
  • US10917508B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a mobile terminal capable of efficiently controlling reception of an incoming call in a state that an external terminal capable of assisting audio output is connected with the mobile terminal and a method of controlling therefor. Specifically, the present invention relates to the mobile terminal including a wireless communication unit configured to communicate with the external terminal, a sensing unit configured to detect a movement of the mobile terminal, an audio output unit and a controller, if a first movement is detected by the sensing unit in the middle of receiving the incoming call in a first configuration state of which an audio output is performed via a first external terminal, configured to accept the incoming call and switch to a second configuration outputting an calling signal for the accepted incoming call via the audio output unit instead of the first external terminal.