Responsive Speaker Volume Using Noise and Proximity Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing voice integration devices do not dynamically adjust their output volume based on environmental conditions, leading to potential disturbance of other users due to inconsistent volume levels.
Innovation Solution
An audio device that automatically adjusts its output volume based on ambient noise levels, user proximity, and detected environmental changes, such as the presence of additional speakers or occupants in the room.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the audio device uses a fixed high output volume to ensure clear communication, then the user can hear the device response clearly, but it disturbs other users in the space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic volume adjustment by continuously monitoring environmental conditions (ambient noise levels, user proximity via microphones, presence of other occupants) and automatically adapting the output volume accordingly. This resolves the contradiction by making the volume flexible rather than fixed, allowing clear communication when needed while reducing disturbance in quiet environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from environmental sensors and microphones to continuously adjust the output volume. The device monitors acoustic data, detects user presence and behavior, and adjusts volume in real-time based on this feedback, ensuring optimal clarity without causing disturbance to others in the space.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the audio device uses a low output volume to avoid disturbing other users, then other users are not disturbed, but the primary user cannot hear the device response clearly
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts volume based on real-time detection of user presence and environmental conditions. When a user is detected in close proximity or the environment is noisy, the device increases volume for clear communication. When no users are present or the environment is quiet, it reduces volume to avoid disturbance.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses feedback from microphones and environmental sensors to detect user presence, proximity, and ambient noise levels, then adjusts output volume accordingly to balance clarity for the primary user with minimal disturbance to others.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the audio device requires manual volume adjustment to adapt to different situations, then the volume can be customized, but it increases device complexity and user interaction steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service volume adjustment where the device automatically monitors environmental conditions (ambient noise, user presence via microphones, occupancy sensors) and adjusts its own output volume without requiring manual user intervention. This maintains adaptability while eliminating the need for complex manual adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically changes the volume parameter based on detected environmental conditions and user behavior, eliminating the need for manual adjustment while maintaining adaptability to different situations.
4Device complexity
If the audio device maintains a constant volume level, then the device operation is simple, but it cannot adapt to changing environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the volume parameter dynamic by continuously monitoring environmental conditions (ambient noise levels, user presence, occupancy) and automatically adjusting accordingly. This maintains simple operation for the user while achieving adaptability through automated environmental sensing and response.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses feedback from environmental sensors and microphones to automatically adjust volume in response to changing conditions, achieving adaptability without complicating user interaction.
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein is an audio device with a microphone which may adapt the audio output volume of a speaker by either increasing or decreasing output volume based on an audio input volume from a user and a distance from the user to the audio device. The audio device may also adapt its output volume to lower the audio output based on detecting one or more interruptions including occupancy and acoustic sounds.