Pulse-Based Volume Control with Earphone-Aware Modulation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current notebook volume control methods using variable resistors are inconvenient and prone to breakdown due to the need for simultaneous software and hardware adjustments, with limited rotation time and range, and lack integration with digital audio functions.

Innovation Solution

A volume control device for mobile electronic devices comprising a signal generating unit, detection unit, and control unit that generates pulse signals based on user input and detects earphone connection to switch between two volume modulation modes, allowing for faster and more convenient volume control with adjustable ranges.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If variable resistors are used for volume control, then analog volume control is achieved, but the device complexity increases and reliability decreases due to mechanical wear and error contact

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevolume control convenienceVSAvoidvariable resistor reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical variable resistor system with a digital pulse signal system. Instead of using a mechanical potentiometer that requires physical rotation and contact, the invention uses a digital encoder that generates pulse signals through electronic means. This substitution eliminates mechanical wear, contact errors, and the need for simultaneous software-hardware coordination, thereby improving reliability while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a digital copy of the volume control function. Rather than directly controlling analog signal levels through a variable resistor, the system generates digital pulse signals that represent volume levels. These pulse signals are then processed by software to achieve the desired volume control effect, separating the mechanical input from the signal processing and improving overall system reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Ease of operation

If variable resistors are used for volume control, then analog volume adjustment is possible, but the rotation time limit and range limit reduce productivity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevolume adjustment capabilityVSAvoidvolume control speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical rotation system with an electronic pulse generation system. The digital encoder can generate pulse signals instantaneously without mechanical inertia or rotation time limits. This allows for faster volume adjustment responses and eliminates the rotation range limitations inherent in mechanical potentiometers, thereby improving productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses periodic pulse signals to control volume. Instead of continuous mechanical rotation, the system generates discrete pulse signals at specific frequencies and durations. This periodic action allows for precise, rapid volume adjustments without the time constraints of mechanical systems, enabling faster and more efficient volume control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

3Adaptability or versatility

If software manner is used for volume control, then digital integration is achieved, but user convenience decreases due to lack of direct hardware control

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesoftware integrationVSAvoiduser control convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the advantages of both hardware and software control systems. The digital encoder provides a hardware interface that users can physically interact with (similar to traditional volume knobs), while the pulse signal generation and processing are handled by the software system. This combination maintains user convenience through direct hardware interaction while achieving full digital integration and software control capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces pulse signals as an intermediary between user input and software processing. The digital encoder converts user actions into pulse signals that serve as a bridge, allowing users to control the system through a simplified hardware interface while the software handles the complex processing. This intermediary mechanism maintains ease of operation while enabling comprehensive software integration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Device complexity

If single volume modulation mode is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability decreases when earphone is connected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevolume modulation system complexityVSAvoidearphone connection adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic volume modulation system that automatically adapts its behavior based on detection signals. The control unit monitors whether an earphone is connected and dynamically switches between different modulation modes (first mode for speaker, second mode for earphone). This dynamic adaptation allows the system to handle different output devices appropriately without requiring complex manual configuration, improving versatility while maintaining manageable complexity through automated detection and switching.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9112469B2Volume control device and method thereof
Publication Date: 2015.08.18 INVENTEC PUDONG TECH CORPOARTION
  • US9112469B2 patent drawing
  • US9112469B2 patent drawing
  • US9112469B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A volume control device and a method thereof are provided. The volume control device adapted to a mobile electronic device comprises a signal generating unit generating a plus pulse signal and a minus pulse signal according to user's rotation operation, a detection unit detecting a connecting state between the volume control device and an earphone to generate a detection signal, and a control unit selecting one of a first volume modulation mode and a second volume modulation mode according to the detection signal. Under the first volume modulation mode, the control unit generates a first control signal according to the plus pulse signal or the minus pulse signal. Under the second volume modulation mode, the control unit generates a second control signal according to the plus pulse signal or the minus pulse signal. The mobile electronic device controls volume according to the first or second control signal.