Multi-Button Headset Control via Standard Jack Encoding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing headsets for mobile communication devices are typically individualized and require non-standard jacks, necessitating additional hardware in the device and limiting functionality to single-button controls, which are insufficient for multi-purpose devices like MP3 players.
Innovation Solution
A headset with a multi-button control unit using a standard jack, incorporating a processor and multiple buttons that transmit control signals via the microphone wire using encoding control signal modes, allowing for execution of various commands without requiring additional hardware in the mobile communication device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a nonstandard jack is used in the headset, then multiple control functions can be achieved, but additional hardware is required in the mobile communication device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling the standard jack to perform multiple functions. The existing standard jack, originally designed for audio only, is made multi-functional by using it to transmit both audio signals and control signals. This allows the headset to provide multiple control functions (play, pause, volume, etc.) through a standard jack without requiring additional hardware in the mobile device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/hardware approach with an electronic/software approach. Instead of adding physical hardware components to the mobile device to support multiple control functions, the solution uses software decoding to interpret control signals transmitted through the existing audio jack's electrical connections. This substitution eliminates the need for additional mechanical hardware while maintaining control functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single button control is used in the headset, then the standard jack can be used, but only two control signals can be transmitted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the single button's functionality dynamic and context-dependent. The single button can perform different functions (mute, voice dialing, play, pause, etc.) depending on the current state and context. This dynamic behavior allows one physical button to effectively provide multiple control signals and functions, overcoming the limitation of single-button controls while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of button functionality from static to variable. Instead of each button having a fixed function, the button's function changes based on software interpretation and context. This parameter change allows a single button to transmit multiple control signals by varying its operational state and the interpretation of its presses, thereby increasing control signal versatility without adding physical buttons.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple buttons are added to the headset, then more control signals can be transmitted, but additional conductors are required in the headset
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing conductors multi-functional. The standard jack's conductors, originally designed only for audio transmission, are made capable of carrying control signals as well. By encoding control information in the audio signal path, the same physical conductors serve dual purposes: audio transmission and control signal transmission, thereby providing multiple control signals without adding conductors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the audio signal path and control signal path into a single communication channel. Control signals are encoded and transmitted through the same conductors used for audio, combining two functions into one physical infrastructure. This merging allows multiple control signals to be transmitted using the existing conductor set, eliminating the need for additional conductors while expanding control capability.
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 advanced control functions like music playback and volume adjustment without updating the mobile device hardware, using a standard jack and software decoding, providing flexibility and universal compatibility.
Implementation Method 1
a first speaker wire, a second speaker wire, a ground wire and a microphone wire; wherein the control signal is transmitted to the jack plug using the microphone wire with an encoding control signal mode comprising a series of voltage pulses, each pulse representing a difference in voltage across the microphone wire relative to the ground wire
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention is directed at a headset for a mobile communication device having a multi-button control and is implemented with a standard headset jack. The multi-button control is decoded by a microprocessor after which an encoded signal is then transmitted from the processor to the handset. In this manner, by using the standard jack, no additional hardware is required on the handset.