Shared Music Playlist Editing via Access Code Mediation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing kitchen appliances lack user-friendly solutions for shared music playlist editing and playback across local networks, often requiring complex interactions and manual network access, which can be confusing and time-consuming for multiple users.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an appliance and a server that identifies accessible audio files over local networks, generates an access code for user devices to manage playlists, and streams music for playback, allowing multiple users to control the playlist without needing to join the home WiFi network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing systems allow multiple persons to control the playlist using the host's audio equipment, then music playback functionality is achieved, but the operation becomes confusing and time-consuming for guests who have never interacted with such equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a computing device (smartphone, tablet, or computer) as an intermediary between the guest and the audio equipment. The computing device provides a simplified user interface for playlist control, eliminating the need for guests to directly interact with complex audio equipment. The computing device communicates with the audio equipment over the network, acting as a mediator that translates simple user actions into equipment-specific commands.
2Ease of operation
If existing systems require guests to log-on to the home owner's home wireless network to control music, then network access is achieved, but manual entry of network information is time-consuming, tedious, and prone to error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the host's computing device automatically share network credentials with guests before they need to connect. The host device detects when a guest device is in proximity (via Bluetooth, NFC, or other wireless communication) and automatically transmits the network SSID and password, or provides a temporary access code. This eliminates the need for guests to manually enter network information, saving time and reducing errors.
3Ease of operation
If existing systems allow guests to access the home network for music control, then playlist management is achieved, but network security is compromised by allowing external devices to access the host's network
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a separate, isolated network environment for guest devices. Instead of allowing guests to access the host's primary network, the system creates a virtual network or isolated network segment specifically for music control. The host's audio equipment and computing devices communicate with guest devices through this controlled interface, allowing music playback and playlist control while preventing guests from accessing other resources on the host's network. This maintains network security while providing the necessary functionality.
4Productivity
If existing systems require each guest to operate the host's audio equipment directly, then music playback is achieved, but the host is distracted from entertaining guests due to instructional requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling guest devices to independently control the music system without host intervention. Once a guest device connects to the network and accesses the music service, it can autonomously browse playlists, select songs, adjust volume, and control playback. The system provides automatic discovery and connection capabilities, allowing guests to independently operate the music system throughout the event, freeing the host to entertain without providing continuous instruction.
Data Source
AI summary
Appliance systems providing user-friendly shared music playlist editing are provided. An example method of operating an appliance includes identifying a plurality of audio files accessible by the appliance over one or more local area networks. The method includes uploading data identifying the plurality of audio files to a server. The method includes providing an access code to a user computing device. The access code allows the user computing device to communicate with the server to select one or more of the plurality of audio files for playback. The method includes receiving from the server data identifying a first audio file selected for playback. The method includes causing one or more speakers to play the first audio file.