Universal Audio Dock for Multi-Platform Wireless Headsets

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current audio systems for gaming headsets require frequent and cumbersome reconnection to different gaming platforms, as they typically have separate wired connectors for game audio and chat audio, necessitating duplication of electronics for each platform, which is costly and inconvenient.

Innovation Solution

A low-cost audio system comprising a dock with multiple input and output ports connected via conductive traces and a wireless dongle that connects to a headset, allowing seamless transfer of audio signals between various gaming and PC platforms without the need for reconnection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separate wired connectors are used for game audio and chat audio on each gaming platform, then audio functionality is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase due to duplication of electronics for each platform

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompatibility with multiple gaming platformsVSAvoidnumber of connectors and electronics
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal audio receiving device that can function with multiple gaming platforms (PlayStation, Xbox, PC) through a single unified design. The device incorporates multiple input connectors (USB, RCA, HDMI) and a wireless module in one unit, eliminating the need for separate electronics for each platform while maintaining compatibility across all of them.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines multiple previously separate components into a single integrated device. Specifically, it merges the audio receiving functionality, wireless communication module, and multiple connector types (USB, RCA, HDMI) into one unified audio receiving device, thereby reducing overall system complexity while enhancing versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate connectors are used for different audio streams on different platforms, then audio functionality is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to frequent reconnection when switching platforms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecross-platform compatibilityVSAvoidconvenience of switching between platforms
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal audio receiving device that works across multiple gaming platforms without requiring users to disconnect and reconnect. The single device with multiple built-in connectors can interface with different platforms directly, eliminating the need for repeated reconnection operations when switching between PlayStation, Xbox, or PC.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If dedicated electronics are duplicated for each gaming platform, then platform-specific functionality is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesupport for multiple gaming consolesVSAvoidproduction cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs a single universal audio receiving device that can support multiple gaming platforms through standardized connectors and wireless communication capabilities. This universal design eliminates the need to manufacture separate dedicated electronics for each platform, significantly reducing production costs while maintaining multi-platform support.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the functionality of multiple platform-specific audio receiving devices into a single unified device. By combining all necessary connectors (USB, RCA, HDMI) and the wireless module into one unit, the manufacturing cost is reduced compared to producing separate dedicated electronics for each gaming platform.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 easy and cost-effective switching of wireless headsets between multiple gaming and PC platforms by using a dock and dongle configuration that wirelessly communicates with headsets, eliminating the need for reconnection and reducing the complexity of managing multiple connectors.

Implementation Method 1

The dongle may be configured to be wirelessly connected to a headset

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWireless communication: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS9369795B2Console compatible wireless gaming headset
Publication Date: 2016.06.14 LOGITECH EUROPE SA
  • US9369795B2 patent drawing
  • US9369795B2 patent drawing
  • US9369795B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of the disclosure may provide a low cost audio system including a dock and a dongle. The dock may be passive and may include a plurality of inputs and a plurality of outputs. The outputs of the plurality of outputs may be connected to a single output port, which may be configured to be communicatively coupled with the dongle. The plurality of inputs of the dock may be connected to one or more audio outputs of one or more gaming consoles. The dongle may be configured to be wirelessly connected to a headset and may include a plurality of contacts that are configured to be connected to the plurality of outputs when the dongle is communicatively coupled to the port. The dongle may be also configured to be communicatively coupled to gaming platforms other than the gaming consoles that are connected to the dock.