Modular Speaker Network Map and Mode Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional speaker systems lack configurability and functionality, making them inflexible for different use cases, as they are often large, difficult to move, and limited in connectivity and audio processing capabilities, forcing users to purchase multiple speakers for various applications.
Innovation Solution
A modular audio system comprising interconnected modules that can detect and map their network, determine operational modes, and output audio signals based on their configuration, allowing for flexible arrangement, positioning, and scaling to various form factors and functionalities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If fixed-installation speakers are used for stationary installations, then audio output capability is improved, but portability and ease of repositioning deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The speaker system is divided into multiple independent modular units, each capable of functioning as a complete speaker. These modules can be individually moved and repositioned while maintaining their audio output capability, resolving the contradiction between power and portability.
Solution Approach 2:
Each speaker module is designed to be universally functional, capable of operating independently or in combination with other modules. The modules can serve multiple purposes including standalone speakers, components of multi-speaker systems, and can be reconfigured for different audio setups, maintaining full functionality across all portability scenarios.
2Reliability
If conventional speaker systems are designed for specific functionality, then reliability for that function is improved, but adaptability to different use cases deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The speaker system transitions from a static, fixed-configuration design to a dynamic, reconfigurable architecture. Modules can be added, removed, and repositioned to create different system configurations (mono, stereo, surround, etc.), allowing the system to adapt to various use cases while maintaining reliable audio performance through consistent module design.
Solution Approach 2:
Each module is designed with universal functionality, incorporating all necessary audio processing, connectivity, and output capabilities within a single unit. This universality allows any module to fulfill any role in the system, enabling reliable performance across diverse configurations and use cases without sacrificing adaptability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate speakers are purchased for different use cases, then adaptability to various applications is improved, but device complexity and expense deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring multiple complete speaker systems for different use cases, the system segments audio functionality into modular units. A single purchase of multiple identical modules provides all necessary configurations (mono, stereo, surround, etc.) through different arrangements of the same components, reducing overall system complexity and expense.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple identical speaker modules are combined in various configurations to create different audio systems. The same physical modules can be merged to form stereo pairs, surround setups, or distributed audio systems, eliminating the need to purchase and manage multiple different speaker types for different applications.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure set forth a system that includes an audio system module. The audio system module includes a speaker, a connector, and one or more processing units. The one or more processing units are configured to detect a second audio system module connected to the connector; determine a network map of audio system modules, wherein the network map comprises at least the first audio system module and the second audio system module; determine a mode of operation based on the network map; receive an audio signal; and via the speaker, output audio corresponding to the audio signal based on the mode of operation.