Toy Device Wireless Audio Signal Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional toy devices face limitations in interaction when physical interaction is not possible or when wired, infrared, microwave radio, or Bluetooth connections are unavailable, restricting their ability to communicate effectively with computing devices.
Innovation Solution
A toy device configured to communicate with a computing device through wireless audio signals at nearly inaudible frequencies, enabling the encoding and transmission of commands and interactions, allowing for bi-directional communication and varied interactions between the toy, computing devices, and human users.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wired, infrared, microwave radio, or Bluetooth connections are used for toy-device communication, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity and user setup requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses audio signals as an intermediary medium to enable communication between the toy device and computing device. Instead of requiring direct wireless connections or physical wiring, the system encodes data in audio signals that can be transmitted through the air and captured by microphones, simplifying the connection process while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical connection systems (wired connections, infrared ports, Bluetooth hardware pairing) with an acoustic field-based communication system. Data is transmitted through sound waves rather than electrical or electromagnetic connections, eliminating the need for complex connection setup and hardware interfaces
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional wireless connections (infrared, microwave radio, Bluetooth) are used, then communication capability is improved, but adaptability to different environments and usage scenarios deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the audio signal system universal by enabling it to perform multiple functions: transmitting commands, receiving responses, and adapting to various interaction modes (speech, physical manipulation, input devices). The same audio communication channel works across different environments without requiring alternative connection methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the frequency parameter of audio signals to nearly-inaudible ranges to improve adaptability. This allows the system to operate in environments where audible sounds might be distracting or interfere with user experience, while maintaining communication reliability through the same acoustic channel
3Adaptability or versatility
If audible frequency audio signals are used for communication, then interaction capability is improved, but user distraction and noise interference increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the frequency parameter of audio signals from the audible range to the nearly-inaudible range (ultrasonic frequencies just below human hearing threshold). This allows the system to maintain full interaction capability through audio signal transmission while eliminating the harmful effect of user distraction and noise interference, as the communication signals are inaudible to users
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables more versatile and varied interactions between toy devices and computing devices, including speech and physical manipulations, by using audio signals at both audible and inaudible frequencies, enhancing interaction capabilities beyond traditional connection methods.
Implementation Method 1
The toy device is configured to communicate with the computing device by transmitting an audio signal at a nearly-inaudible frequency
Implementation Method 2
The toy device may respond to the interactions by generating visual or auditory outputs. The toy device may also process the interaction, and, in response, transmit an audio signal to the computing device
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques are disclosed that enable a toy device to interact with a computing device through wireless transmissions. The toy device is configured to communicate with the computing device by transmitting an audio signal at a nearly-inaudible frequency. The toy device may encode commands in the audio signal that cause the computing device to generate visual or auditory outputs. The toy device is also configured to receive and process interactions from human users and/or computing devices. The interactions may be in the form of speech or physical manipulations of the toy device. The toy device may respond to the interactions by generating visual or auditory outputs. The toy device may also process the interaction, and, in response, transmit an audio signal to the computing device.