Ultrasonic Echolocation for Mobile Notification Context
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile devices face challenges in minimizing distractions from notifications in various environments, as users may not want to be disturbed in certain situations, such as in transit or in close proximity to others, despite the need for important communications.
Innovation Solution
An acoustic transducer capable of generating and detecting both audible and ultrasonic sounds, allowing for echolocation to determine surroundings and modify device behavior, such as notification settings, using ultrasonic signals that do not interfere with audio communications and provide additional resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If the mobile device sends notifications to keep users connected and informed, then connectivity and information delivery are improved, but user distraction and inconvenience increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the acoustic parameters by using ultrasonic frequencies (above 20 kHz) for echolocation signals, which are inaudible to humans. This allows the device to perform environmental sensing without causing auditory distraction, while still delivering notifications through audible channels when appropriate
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces ultrasonic echolocation signals as an intermediary mechanism to sense the environment and determine appropriate notification contexts. This intermediary system allows the device to understand surroundings (e.g., proximity to others, location) and intelligently control notification delivery, reducing distraction while maintaining connectivity
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the mobile device operates in silent mode to reduce distractions, then user distraction is reduced, but the ability to receive important notifications is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses feedback from ultrasonic echolocation sensing to dynamically control notification behavior. The device continuously monitors environmental parameters (distance to objects, presence of people, location context) and uses this feedback to intelligently determine when to deliver notifications, even in silent mode, ensuring important information is received without constant distraction
3Adaptability or versatility
If the mobile device uses location information to modify behavior, then adaptability to environment is improved, but precision in determining appropriate notification contexts is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces GPS-based location sensing with ultrasonic echolocation technology. Instead of relying on imprecise location data alone, the device uses acoustic wave reflection to precisely measure distances to surrounding objects and surfaces, providing accurate real-time context about proximity to people, walls, and other environmental features for better notification control
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 the electronic device to determine its environment and adjust its behavior to minimize distractions, ensuring users can receive important notifications while avoiding unnecessary interruptions in inappropriate settings.
Implementation Method 1
An acoustic transducer capable of generating and detecting both audible and ultrasonic sounds, allowing for echolocation to determine surroundings
Implementation Method 2
using ultrasonic signals that do not interfere with audio communications and provide additional resolution
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus comprises an echolocation module configured to determine a distance to the object based on the received sound signal reflected from an object. The echolocation module determines surroundings based on the determined distance. A processor is configured to modify one or more attributes of the apparatus based on the determined surroundings.