Position-Dependent Attenuation Control for Handsfree Echo Cancellation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile handsfree devices face challenges in maintaining optimal signal decoupling and echo cancellation, especially when positioned unfavorably, leading to suboptimal handsfree operation and increased attenuation, which affects voice quality and duplex communication.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a position-detection unit, such as an acceleration sensor or multi-axis position sensor, coupled with an attenuation control unit and echo canceller, adjusts attenuation and echo cancellation based on the device's position to minimize unnecessary decoupling and maintain high voice quality, even in unfavorable positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high attenuation is applied to ensure sufficient decoupling in unfavorable positions, then echo and feedback are avoided, but voice quality and duplex communication deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The attenuation value is dynamically adjusted based on the detected position of the handsfree device. The system transitions from static high attenuation to dynamic position-dependent attenuation, allowing optimal voice quality in favorable positions while maintaining sufficient decoupling in unfavorable positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The attenuation parameter is changed according to the device position. Different attenuation values are applied for different positions (e.g., favorable vs. unfavorable positions), resolving the contradiction between maintaining reliable decoupling and preserving voice quality.
2Ease of manufacture
If position-dependent attenuation control is implemented, then voice quality improves in favorable positions, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms with an electronic position detection system using acceleration sensors and a microcontroller. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while achieving position-dependent attenuation control through electronic means.
Solution Approach 2:
The microcontroller serves multiple functions: detecting device position, determining attenuation values, and controlling the attenuation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
3Device complexity
If manual position input is required for attenuation control, then system simplicity is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects the device position using acceleration sensors and adjusts attenuation without requiring manual user input. This self-service approach eliminates the need for users to manually specify position, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining reasonable system simplicity through automated sensing.
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 ensures that only necessary decoupling is applied, enhancing handsfree quality and enabling true full-duplex communication without sacrificing volume, while also optimizing power usage by adjusting display lighting and call acceptance based on device position.
Implementation Method 1
an acceleration sensor, in particular a capacitively operating acceleration sensor and/or a sensor fabricated on a silicon basis in integrated technology
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for position-dependent control has a control unit, where the control unit takes the position of the apparatus as a basis for: a) controlling damping and/or echo cancellation for the apparatus, and/or b) switching a summit of the apparatus on or off or to a power saving mode, and/or c) prompting call acceptance.