Multi-Audio Volume Synchronization Using Fixed Amplifier Gain

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sound output systems struggle to appropriately control the volume of sound across multiple connected audio devices, such as speakers, leading to inconsistent volume levels during output.

Innovation Solution

A sound output device with first and second circuitry, where the second circuitry amplifies sound and sets a fixed volume value, receiving sound output data and volume data from the first circuitry to synchronize sound output across connected audio devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple audio devices are connected to a sound output device, then the sound output capability is enhanced, but the volume control consistency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesound output capabilityVSAvoidvolume control consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a sound output control unit as an intermediary between the host device and multiple audio devices. This control unit receives volume information from the host device and distributes it to all connected audio devices, ensuring consistent volume control across all devices while maintaining the ability to connect multiple audio devices simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If each audio device has independent volume information, then the device autonomy is maintained, but the coordinated volume control becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevice autonomyVSAvoidcoordinated volume control

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the volume control function into a centralized sound output control unit that manages all audio devices. Instead of each device having independent volume control, the control unit consolidates volume information distribution, making coordinated control easy while allowing each audio device to maintain its operational autonomy through the standardized control interface.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Ensures consistent and controlled sound volume across multiple audio devices, enhancing the management of sound output in systems like electronic whiteboards and other information processing systems.

Implementation Method 1

including an amplifier that amplifies sound to be output from the second audio device according to second sound volume data

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical amplification:

Data Source

PatentUS11625218B2Sound output device, sound output system, and output sound control method with appropriately controllable volume, and recording medium

Publication Date: 2023.04.11 RICOH CO LTD

AI summary

A sound output device includes: first circuitry, connected to a first audio device, that outputs sound based on sound output data via the first audio device according to first sound volume data; and second circuitry connected to a second audio device, including an amplifier that amplifies sound to be output from the second audio device according to second sound volume data. The second circuitry controls a value of the second sound volume data to be a fixed value, receives, from the first circuitry, the sound output data and the first sound volume data, and outputs sound based on the sound output data that is received, via the second audio device, according to the first sound volume data that is received.