Modular Smartphone Voice Call Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

Modular portable communication devices face challenges in determining a default mode for handling incoming and outgoing voice calls when modules are separated, leading to uncertainty about whether to initiate a speakerphone or handheld session.

Innovation Solution

A modular portable device system that includes two modules, where the first module handles cellular connectivity and audio during docking, and transitions to speakerphone mode on the second module if undocked, or maintains simultaneous audio routing between both modules, ensuring seamless call management across different configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the device uses a modular architecture with separable modules, then the device can be customized and expanded with additional functionality, but it becomes difficult to establish a default mode for handling voice calls when modules are separated

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemodular configuration flexibilityVSAvoidcall handling确定性

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically determines call handling mode based on the docking status of modules. When modules are docked, the system uses the first module's earpiece speaker and microphone for handheld mode. When the second module is undocked, the system automatically switches to speakerphone mode using the second module's loudspeaker and microphone, ensuring appropriate call handling adapts to the current physical configuration

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors the docking status between modules and uses this feedback to automatically adjust call handling behavior. The processor detects whether modules are docked or separated and相应ly switches between handheld and speakerphone modes, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains optimal call handling based on real-time device state

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Ease of operation

If the device automatically switches between handheld and speakerphone modes based on module docking status, then call handling becomes seamless, but the system complexity increases due to dynamic mode switching requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecall handling seamlessnessVSAvoidmode switching control logic

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by automatically detecting module docking status and autonomously switching call handling modes without requiring user intervention. The processor monitors the physical connection state and automatically configures the appropriate audio routing and speaker/microphone selection, eliminating the need for manual mode selection by the user

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS10506404B2Voice call management in a modular smartphone

Publication Date: 2019.12.10 MOTOROLA MOBILITY LLC

AI summary

In an embodiment of the disclosed principles, a modular portable device includes a first module acting as a traditional high-function phone or “smartphone” and a second module that adds enhanced functionality to the first module. When the modules are separated, they may operate independently of each other. In an embodiment, when the first module and the second module are docked together and a voice call is placed with the first module, the earpiece speaker, microphone, and cellular connection of the first module are utilized. During the voice call, a Bluetooth connection between the first module and the second module may be established in anticipation of an undocking event to eliminate a delay in audio transfer from the first module to the second module.