Wireless Earphone Network Switching for Extended Audio Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wireless headphones are either cumbersome due to cords or large in size, and lack the ability to seamlessly transition between ad hoc and infrastructure wireless networks, limiting their range and usability.
Innovation Solution
A wireless earphone design that includes a transceiver circuit capable of receiving streaming audio via ad hoc and infrastructure wireless networks, automatically transitioning between them without user intervention, using a host server for connectivity when out of range, and featuring adjustable shape and dual speaker elements for improved fit and sound quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If wireless headphones use ad hoc network for direct connection, then audio quality is improved, but connection range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an infrastructure network (Wi-Fi router/access point) as an intermediary between the audio source and headphones. When direct ad hoc connection is not available or for extended range, the system routes audio through the infrastructure network, enabling both high-quality audio transmission and extended connection range beyond line-of-sight limitations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If wireless headphones support both ad hoc and infrastructure networks, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless headphone device incorporates a universal transceiver system capable of operating in multiple wireless network modes (ad hoc and infrastructure). This multi-functional design allows the same hardware to seamlessly switch between direct peer-to-peer connection and router-mediated connection, providing broad adaptability without requiring separate dedicated systems for each mode.
3Ease of operation
If conventional wireless headphones are made cordless, then ease of operation is improved, but device size is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the physical cord from the headphone system, extracting the connection constraint and replacing it with wireless communication technology. This extraction eliminates the need for cable management and physical connectors, significantly improving ease of operation and portability while the compact wireless transceiver design keeps the overall device size manageable.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus comprises adapter and speaker system. Adapter is configured to plug into port of personal digital audio player. Speaker system is in communication with adapter, and comprises multiple acoustic transducers, programmable processor circuit, and wireless communication circuit. In first operational mode, processor circuit receives, via adapter, and processes digital audio content from personal digital audio player into which adapter is plugged, and the multiple acoustic transducers output the received audio content from the personal digital audio player. In second operational mode, wireless communication circuit receives digital audio content from a remote digital audio source over a wireless network, processor circuit processes the digital audio content received from remote digital audio source, and the multiple acoustic transducers output the audio content received from the remote digital audio source.