PCB Light Array With Audio-Reactive Playback Synchronization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lighting systems lack interactivity and customization, failing to create engaging and memorable experiences, especially in entertainment settings, and do not synchronize with audio playback.

Innovation Solution

A light system integrated within a beverage container that includes a PCB with a light array and audio system, capable of synchronized audio-reactive animations, customizable modes, and removable memory for various audio files, with a multifunction button for mode transitions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional lighting systems are used, then the device complexity is low, but the interactivity and user engagement are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveinteractivityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functions (lighting, audio playback, synchronization control, and user interaction) into a single integrated device. The control system merges these previously separate components, allowing the device to function as both a light source and an audio player with synchronized output, thereby increasing interactivity without proportionally increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The lighting device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can play stored audio files, synchronize lights with audio playback, accept user inputs through buttons, and operate in different modes (synchronized mode, audio-only mode, light-only mode). This multi-functionality increases adaptability while managing complexity through integrated design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional lighting systems are used, then the device complexity is low, but the customization capability is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovecustomizationVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device incorporates dynamic control capabilities that allow users to switch between different operational modes (synchronized lighting mode, audio-only mode, light-only mode) and adjust lighting parameters. This dynamic adaptability enables customization of the lighting experience without requiring complex reconfiguration of the underlying system architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system allows modification of operational parameters such as lighting intensity, color, and synchronization timing through user inputs. The control system can adjust these parameters dynamically based on user preferences and selected modes, providing customization while managing complexity through parameter-based control rather than structural changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If audio-synchronized lighting effects are implemented, then user engagement is enhanced, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser engagementVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The synchronization mechanism incorporates feedback loops where the control system continuously monitors audio playback status and adjusts lighting output in real-time. This feedback-based synchronization enhances user engagement by creating a cohesive audio-visual experience while managing complexity through automated control algorithms rather than manual coordination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The device pre-loads and stores audio files in memory before playback, allowing the synchronization system to anticipate and prepare lighting sequences in advance. This preliminary action enables smooth audio-visual synchronization without requiring complex real-time processing during playback, thereby enhancing user engagement while managing system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Adaptability or versatility

If multiple operational modes are added, then the versatility is improved, but the ease of operation decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveversatilityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The device incorporates automatic mode selection and configuration features that reduce the burden on users. For example, the system can automatically detect the desired operational mode based on user inputs or environmental conditions, and automatically configure synchronization parameters, thereby maintaining versatility while improving ease of operation through automated self-service functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Enhances user engagement and creates a shared experience by providing immersive, audio-synchronized lighting effects, promoting a sense of community and enhancing the overall entertainment experience.

Implementation Method 1

a light array configured to display an animation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight Emitting Diode: Light Emitting Diode

Data Source

PatentUS12520407B2Light system with synchronized audio playback
Publication Date: 2026.01.06 THE DIFFERENCE LLC
  • US12520407B2 patent drawing
  • US12520407B2 patent drawing
  • US12520407B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A light system with synchronized audio playback is provided. The light system includes a printed circuit board having a light array and an audio system. The light array has a plurality of light sources disposed on a first side of the printed circuit board, wherein the plurality of light sources is able to display an animation, including an audio reactive animation. The audio system is able to stream audio from a local non-transitory memory through a digital-to-analog (DAC) amplifier for final playback through a speaker. The audio system is able to provide an analog signal to a microcontroller for sampling during the display of the audio reactive animations. A second audio channel from the DAC amplifier is used to sample the audio playback for performing audio reactive LED animations.