Single Controller Audio Signal Processing for Compact Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Audio devices with multiple controllers for volume adjustment and playback functions occupy significant space, making it challenging to achieve a compact design, especially in portable devices where limited surface space is available.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a single controller, such as a key or button, that can handle multiple functions by varying the pressing time to toggle between play/pause modes and adjust volume levels, utilizing a processor to interpret commands and manage the Volume Control Counter to control audio output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple controllers are used to control different audio functions, then the control functionality is comprehensive, but the device occupies significant space
Solution Approach 1:
The single controller is designed to perform multiple audio control functions including volume adjustment, playback control, and mode switching. By making the controller universal and multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for multiple separate controllers, thereby reducing the device surface space while maintaining comprehensive control functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple control functions that were previously handled by separate controllers into a single controller interface. This merging of functions allows the device to maintain full control capabilities while significantly reducing the space occupied by control elements on the device surface
2Area of stationary object
If a single controller handles multiple functions, then the device size is compact, but the operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller employs dynamic operation modes including short pressing, long pressing, and continuous pressing, where the function changes based on the duration and pattern of the press. This dynamic behavior allows a single controller to handle multiple functions while maintaining intuitive and simple operation, as users can easily distinguish between different operations through timing variations
Solution Approach 2:
The controller uses periodic action patterns such as short presses for one function, long presses for another function, and continuous presses for a third function. This periodic variation in press duration creates clear operational distinctions that simplify user interaction while enabling comprehensive control through a single button
Data Source
AI summary
An audio device includes an audio output, a single controller, and a processor. The audio output is operable to output at a volume level. The controller is operable to receive a command from a user. The processor is operable to process the received command to provide one of multiple audio control functions that control the audio output. The multiple audio control functions include: a play mode, a pause mode, and a volume change mode. One of the multiple audio control functions is selected in response to comparing a pressing time of the controller with a first predetermined time period. The audio output is operable to output at a volume level during the play mode, to mute during the pause mode, and to the output volume level to be adjusted during the volume change mode.