Proximity-Based Call Audio Control for Privacy

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic devices face challenges in simplifying call function inputs and ensuring user privacy, particularly in environments where complex operations are performed simultaneously with calls, and in situations where external exposure of audio data may compromise privacy.

Innovation Solution

An electronic device that automatically adjusts call function settings based on user proximity and environmental conditions, using sensors to determine distance and noise levels to optimize audio output strength and directionality, thereby reducing user input complexity and enhancing privacy by controlling audio exposure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If automatic control based on device state is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecall function input simplicityVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically adjusts call functions (speakerphone activation, volume levels, microphone gain) based on sensor-detected device states without requiring user input. The device serves itself by monitoring its own state through sensors and autonomously making control decisions, eliminating the need for complex user interactions while managing system complexity through automated routines.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If speakerphone mode is activated for hands-free operation, then ease of operation is improved, but privacy protection deteriorates due to external audio exposure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehands-free operation capabilityVSAvoidprivacy violation from audio exposure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts the speakerphone state based on real-time sensor inputs. When sensors detect that the device is in a pocket or bag (through motion, orientation, or proximity sensors), the system automatically deactivates the speakerphone even if it was previously active. This dynamic adaptation allows hands-free operation when appropriate while preventing privacy violations in situations where the device is stored in personal items.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors device state through sensors and uses this feedback to adjust speakerphone activation and volume levels. When sensor data indicates the device is in a pocket or bag, the feedback loop triggers automatic speakerphone deactivation or volume reduction, preventing audio leakage while maintaining hands-free capability when the device is in normal usage positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Ease of operation

If automatic speakerphone control based on sensor data is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but loss of information occurs due to unintended audio exposure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic call controlVSAvoidprivacy information exposure
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary checks using sensors to determine appropriate speakerphone settings before activating call functions. By pre-assessing device state (whether in pocket, bag, or hand), the system prevents unintended audio exposure before it occurs, ensuring privacy protection is in place before any audio output begins.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP3565229B1Electronic device and method for controlling call function
Publication Date: 2021.07.14 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP3565229B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3565229B1 patent drawingFigure 2A
  • EP3565229B1 patent drawingFigure 2B

AI summary

An electronic device according to various embodiments in the present disclosure may comprise a modem, at least one sensor, and at least one processor which is connected with the modem and the at least one sensor and configured to control: determining the distance between the electronic device and a user thereof during the execution of a call application; determining the output intensity of sound data received from another electronic device connected through the call application, as an output intensity corresponding to the determined distance; and outputting the sound data at the determined output intensity.