Movable Audio Output Module for Terminal Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional terminal devices, such as televisions, have fixedly arranged speakers that do not meet user needs, leading to potential blockage of audio output and increased risk of damage when not in use, while occupying unnecessary space.

Innovation Solution

A terminal device with an audio output module that can move between a housed position and an external position based on its audio output state, driven by a motor and rotating mechanism, allowing optimal exposure for audio output and protection when not in use, and incorporating a limiting module for precise movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If the audio output module is fixedly arranged inside the housing, then the device structure is simple and compact, but the audio output is blocked and the audio output effect is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice structureVSAvoidaudio output blockage
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The audio output module is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically change position between inside and outside the housing based on operational needs. This dynamic configuration resolves the contradiction by enabling the module to be compact during storage and exposed during audio output operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The audio output module transitions from a two-dimensional planar arrangement inside the housing to a three-dimensional external positioning. By moving the module outside the housing boundary, the patent creates additional spatial dimension for audio output, eliminating blockage while maintaining a compact overall device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Object-generated harmful factors

If the audio output module is exposed outside the housing, then the audio output effect is improved, but the device occupies more space and the module is vulnerable to external damage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaudio output blockageVSAvoidexternal damage risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The movable design allows the audio output module to dynamically transition between protected (inside housing) and functional (outside housing) states. This resolves the contradiction by providing space-efficient protection when audio is not in use, while enabling optimal audio output performance when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The audio output module periodically transitions between retracted and extended positions based on operational requirements. During non-operational periods, the module remains protected inside the housing; during operational periods, it extends outside for optimal audio output, creating a periodic cycle that balances protection and performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

3Device complexity

If the audio output module is fixedly arranged, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot adapt to different usage scenarios and user needs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule arrangementVSAvoidusage scenario adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The movable audio output module transforms the static, simple structure into a dynamic system that can adapt to different usage scenarios. The added movement capability enables versatility in positioning and orientation while maintaining relative structural simplicity through the use of straightforward mechanical actuation mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

This solution enhances audio output quality by reducing blockage, protects the device from external damage, and optimizes space usage by intelligently adjusting the audio output module's position based on usage, thereby improving user experience.

Implementation Method 1

a driving module, connected to the audio output module to drive the audio output module to move between a first position and a second position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Data Source

PatentEP3823302B1Terminal device and method for outputting audio
Publication Date: 2023.05.10 BEIJING XIAOMI MOBILE SOFTWARE CO LTD
  • EP3823302B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3823302B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3823302B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A terminal device and a method for outputting audio are provided. The terminal device at least includes: a housing; an audio output module; and a driving module, connected to the audio output module and configured to drive the audio output module to move between a first position and a second position. The first position is located inside the housing, and the second position is located outside the housing. When the audio output module is in an audio output state, the audio output module is driven to move to the second position. When the audio output module exits the audio output state, the audio output module is driven to move to the first position.