Vehicle Audio Control Plate for Sound Position Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing audio systems in vehicles require complex and numerous operating elements to set sound location parameters, such as balance and fader values, making the process cumbersome and difficult to operate efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A device and method that allow users to set sound location parameters, specifically balance and fader values, using a single, simple control element like a rotary adjuster, where switching between parameter settings is automatic, eliminating the need for additional selections and confirming inputs, and utilizing a graphical display for easy adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple separate control elements are used to set balance and fader parameters, then each parameter can be set independently, but the number of operating elements increases and operation becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control functions into a single control element that can sequentially adjust both balance and fader parameters. This single element integrates the functionality of what would traditionally require separate controls, reducing the total number of operating elements while maintaining full parameter adjustment capability through time-sequenced operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control element is designed with multi-functionality to perform multiple parameter adjustments. It can operate in different modes or sequences to adjust balance, fader, or both parameters, making a single element universal for multiple control tasks that would otherwise require dedicated separate controls.
2Device complexity
If a single control element is used to set both parameters, then the number of operating elements is reduced, but additional selection steps are required to switch between parameter modes
Solution Approach 1:
The control element is pre-configured with multiple operational modes or sequences that correspond to different parameter adjustments. The system anticipates the user's needs by having preset modes for adjusting balance, fader, or both, eliminating the need for complex real-time selection processes and simplifying the operation sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The control element dynamically switches between different adjustment modes based on user interaction patterns or preset conditions. This dynamic behavior allows the single element to adapt its function during operation, providing different parameter adjustment capabilities at different times without requiring manual mode selection, thus reducing operational complexity.
3Loss of time
If separate control elements are used for balance and fader, then parameter selection is explicit, but the setting process takes more time
Solution Approach 1:
The single control element maintains continuous useful action by seamlessly transitioning between parameter adjustment modes without interruption or idle time. When adjusting from one parameter to another, the system maintains operational continuity, eliminating the time loss associated with switching between separate controls or modes, thus speeding up the overall setting process.
Solution Approach 2:
The control element operates in periodic cycles, sequentially adjusting different parameters in a predetermined sequence. This periodic operation allows the system to efficiently cycle through balance and fader adjustments without requiring separate continuous control actions, reducing the total time needed to set both parameters while maintaining structured control.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2c
Figure 2d~2e
AI summary
The device (23) has an audio system (21) arranged in the interior of a motor vehicle (1). A display (27) is coupled to a controller (25) with a graphical representation provided on the display device. A controller is provided having a control plate (35) and the control unit (25). A parameter is provided for position values (37) of the plate (35) and arranged automatically into a setting for other parameters to change the values on another position (43) and which are ascertainable. An independent claim is included for a method.