Piezoelectric Cord Controller for Headsets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control cords for auxiliary devices like headsets with portable electronic devices require bulky housing for remote controls and rely on externally supplied power to generate control signals, which is inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a self-powered controlling sensor, such as a piezoelectric material, within the cord that generates control signals by deformation independent of power supplied to the headset or device, eliminating the need for a separate housing and external power supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate housing is used for the remote control, then control functionality is provided, but device complexity and bulkiness increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control sensor directly into the cord itself, eliminating the need for a separate housing. The cord serves dual purposes: both as the electrical connection medium and as the structural support for the control interface, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining remote control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the control housing from the traditional headset design and integrates only the essential sensing function directly into the cord. This extraction eliminates unnecessary structural components while preserving the core control capability.
2Ease of operation
If externally supplied power is used for control signals, then control functionality is enabled, but power consumption and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a self-powered sensor that generates control signals through its own inherent mechanism (piezoelectric effect) without requiring external power supply. The sensor converts mechanical deformation directly into electrical signals, making the control system independent of external power sources and reducing overall power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional electrical power-based control system with a mechanical-to-electrical conversion system. Instead of using powered actuators or buttons requiring electricity, the system uses mechanical deformation of the cord to generate control signals through piezoelectric materials, substituting a powered system with a passive mechanical sensing system.
3Ease of operation
If traditional control buttons are used, then control functions are provided, but manufacturing cost and component count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control interface directly into the cord structure, eliminating the need for separate button components, housings, and associated assembly processes. This integration simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces component count while maintaining full control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental operating parameter of the control interface from electrical actuation (buttons requiring power and movement mechanisms) to mechanical deformation sensing. This parameter change enables the use of simpler, more cost-effective materials and manufacturing techniques while achieving the same control objectives.
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 remote control of portable electronic devices without external power, reducing component complexity and cost, while providing a flexible and reliable control mechanism that is less sensitive to power variations.
Implementation Method 1
A self-powered controlling sensor may be arranged to control the electronic device using a generated control signal. The controlling sensor may comprise a sensor material. The control signal may be generated by deformation of the sensor material independent of power supplied to the headset and independent of power supplied to the portable electronic device.
Data Source
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AI summary
A cord-based controller for an auxiliary device, such as a headset, is provided for use with a portable electronic device. A pressure-sensitive, and preferably bendable, material such as a piezoelectric pressure sensor is placed within or on an or cord of a headphone lead, such as by wrapping it within the outer shielding of the cord. A self-powered controlling sensor is arranged to control the electronic device using a generated control signal. The controlling sensor comprises a sensor material. The control signal is generated by deformation of the sensor material independent of power supplied to the headset and independent of power supplied to the portable electronic device. This is achieved without requiring a separate housing for the controller, which typically protrudes from the cord. A plurality of control sensor elements can be provided, each producing a different control signal voltage transmitted along a single control signal electrical connector.