Preset Audio Control for Grouped Speakers and Synchronized Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing home automation systems lack efficient integration and control of multiple electrical and audio devices, particularly in response to user commands and operational feedback.
Innovation Solution
A control system comprising audio output devices and a remote control device with presets for unified command execution, along with a system bridge for dynamic grouping and feedback signaling, and load control devices like dimmers for synchronized lighting adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple audio output devices are controlled individually, then each device can be optimized for its specific location and function, but the control complexity and number of separate control interfaces increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple individual control interfaces into a single unified remote control device that can issue commands to multiple audio output devices simultaneously. The remote control includes multiple buttons that can be programmed to control different devices or groups of devices, consolidating what would otherwise require multiple separate controllers into one unified interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote control device is designed with multi-functionality to control various types of audio output devices (speakers, soundbars, home theater systems) and can operate them in different configurations (stereo, surround sound, channel switching). This universal control capability eliminates the need for device-specific control interfaces.
2Ease of operation
If audio output devices are controlled through multiple separate control interfaces, then each interface can be simplified for its specific function, but the user experience and convenience deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple control interfaces into a single remote control device. Users interact with one unified controller rather than multiple separate devices, simplifying the user experience while maintaining the ability to control various audio devices through a consolidated interface.
3Adaptability or versatility
If audio output devices are dynamically grouped, then the system can provide unified control and coordinated operation, but the system complexity and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic grouping where audio output devices can be assigned to different groups based on operational requirements. The remote control can programmatically define different groups (e.g., left channel, right channel, surround speakers) and switch between them, allowing flexible unified control without requiring permanent complex system architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A control system may comprise a plurality of audio output devices (e.g., controllable speakers), and a remote control device having at least one button for selecting a preset, where the preset defines different commands for at least two of the audio output devices. The at least two audio output devices may be configured to be controlled according to the different commands (e.g., starting, pausing, or stopping playback, adjusting volume, etc.) in response to an actuation of the button of the remote control device. The control system may also comprise a load control device, such as a dimmer configured to control an intensity of a lighting load to a predetermined intensity in response to the actuation of the button of the remote control device to select the preset. The audio output device may be configured to play a feedback signal indicating an operational characteristic of the dimmer.