Smart Media Audio Routing by AV Power State Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing smart media devices (SMDs) require manual user selection to route default audio output, regardless of the power state of attached output devices like TVs, leading to inefficient audio routing in residential networks.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method and system within SMDs that automatically route audio output based on the power state of AV output devices using HDMI CEC messaging, automatically switching between local speakers and external devices like TVs for optimal audio delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual user selection is used to route audio output, then user control is maintained, but operation convenience deteriorates and time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects the power state of connected AV devices and autonomously routes audio output without requiring user intervention. The SMD monitors device states and makes routing decisions independently, eliminating manual selection operations and time consumption while maintaining appropriate audio delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the power state of connected AV devices through feedback signals and dynamically adjusts audio routing based on real-time device availability. This feedback mechanism enables automatic adaptation to changing device states without user input.
2Adaptability or versatility
If audio is always routed to the same output destination, then system simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different device states deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The audio routing configuration transitions from static to dynamic, automatically adjusting the output destination based on real-time detection of AV device power states. The system adapts its routing behavior dynamically without requiring complex user configuration, maintaining simplicity while improving adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The routing system serves multiple functions: it automatically detects device states, determines appropriate output destinations, and manages audio routing across different scenarios (TV on/off, various device types). This multi-functional approach enhances adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.
3Ease of operation
If automatic routing based on power state is implemented, then operation convenience is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The SMD performs self-service by automatically monitoring AV device power states and autonomously making routing decisions. This eliminates the need for complex user-facing controls while the underlying system handles the complexity of power state detection and routing logic independently.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus, system, method, and computer-readable recording medium for automatic routing of an audio output using a smart media device (SMD), which includes receiving a request for audio content or audio and visual content, obtaining the audio content or the audio and visual content requested, and determining a power state of an audio/video (AV) output device. If the power state is determined to be ON, the audio content or the audio and visual content is automatically routed to the AV output device, and if the power state is determined to be OFF, the audio content is automatically routed to the SMD for output. If the power state is determined to be OFF and the request is for audio and visual content, the power state of the AV output device is controlled ON, and the audio and visual content is routed to the AV output device.