The present invention generally relates to cordless microphones and, more particularly, to a novel wireless microphone system and method for voice augmentation and presentation which is particularly suitable for use with a dedicated touchscreen device utilizing a 6000A+ panel or an interface such as a NEXT Hub.
Educational institutions have transitioned over the past two generations away from chalk board use, first to marker boards and now to touchscreen displays. These touchscreens comprise a digital display with internal touch sensors and an on-board computer for operation.
While the touchscreens have continued to improve, little has improved with voice amplification and integration systems. Some classrooms and board rooms use a public address (PA) system that comprises a microphone, amplifier, and speakers. Few have any type of PA system integrated into the audio system used by projectors, touchscreens, and the like.
When audio enhancement is present in the classroom, it has been scientifically proven to improve student retention. In addition, having an audio enhancement solution removes teacher “voice fatigue” always present during the first few weeks of school. Unfortunately, adding an audio enhancement solution to every classroom is expensive. Although the benefits are widely recognized, it requires significant funding to place audio enhancement in every average size classroom.
What is needed is a complete upgrade solution that will integrate with interactive flat panels and/or interactive teaching devices. It also needs to be a low-cost device so that one can be purchased for every classroom.
The present invention, referred to as the NEXT Microphone, provides a complete system and method for integrating a wireless microphone into an dedicated touchscreen device or modern touchscreen panel. The invention comprises at least one wireless microphone which may be clipped, in typical fashion, to the presenter's shirt, worn around the speaker's neck with a collar adapter, or held like a standard microphone.
In a particularly preferred embodiment the NEXT Microphone is interfaced with a Universal Serial Bus (USB) adapter that connects to the dedicated touchscreen device such as an 6000A+ Integrated Flat Panel (IFP) or a NEXT Hub.
A particular feature of the invention is the ability to utilize the internal speakers of a dedicated touchscreen device to become immediate output for the NEXT Microphone.
In a preferred embodiment the invention routes the microphone audio through a dedicated touchscreen device and out of the speaker amplification system. The invention can do the same with common audio hubs and works best with a NEXT Hub.
A preferred embodiment of the invention operates with the latest 6000A+ series IFPs or a NEXT Hub utilizing an onboard Rock Chip 3588.
The instant invention preferably utilizes an on-board chip and a USB receiver to allow for voice overlay and integration along with voice augmentation and enhancement.
The invention provides voice augmentation and enhancements to project the speaker's voice more intelligibly to the audience allowing the speaker to use a normal speaking voice and volume.
A particular advantage of the invention is realized in remote learning environments which is now essential in modern classrooms and boardrooms particularly post COVID pandemic wherein the appreciation of remote learning escalated.
The invention integrates the speaker's voice with the audio output of the IFP to provide a modern audio/visual learning experience, without the poor audio, video, computing, and connectivity issues experienced by many during the pandemic.
Yet another advantage of the invention is its small size allowing it to be placed in a suitcase for travel and then connected to any available 6000A+ IFP or NEXT Hub, thereby avoiding the need for shipment of a touchscreen device or PA system, while simultaneously providing users the latest audio/video capabilities while traveling.
Another advantage of the invention is that it allows for use of the NEXT Hub, which provides exceptional audio/video connectivity and clarity in boardrooms, classrooms, auditoriums and the like.
These and other advantages, as will be realized, are provided in a NEXT microphone system for use with a touchscreen display. The NEXT Microphone comprises a microphone comprising a wireless transmitter capable of transmitting a wireless link, wherein the wireless link comprises a microphone audio signal and a wireless receiver capable of receiving the wireless link and transmitting a line out signal to a touchscreen display, wherein the line out signal comprises the microphone audio signal. The touchscreen display comprises an integral computer comprising an operating system in functional control of the integral computer wherein the operating system comprises a digital signal processing module. The touchscreen display comprises at least one speaker for transmitting a touchscreen audio output. The digital signal processing module is capable of receiving the microphone audio signal from the line out signal and transmitting the microphone audio signal through at least one speaker simultaneously with the touchscreen audio output.
Yet another embodiment is provided in a NEXT microphone system for use with a touchscreen display comprising a microphone comprising a wireless transmitter capable of transmitting a wireless link wherein the wireless link comprises a microphone audio signal. A NEXT Hub is provided comprising an integral computer comprising an operating system in functional control of the integral computer wherein the operating system comprises a digital signal processing module. A wireless receiver is provided which is capable of receiving the wireless link and transmitting the microphone audio signal to the touchscreen display. The touchscreen display comprises at least one speaker for transmitting a touchscreen audio output and the digital signal processing module transmits the microphone audio signal through at least one speaker simultaneously with the touchscreen audio output.
Yet another embodiment is provided in a NEXT microphone system for use with a touchscreen display comprising a microphone comprising a wireless transmitter capable of transmitting a wireless link wherein the wireless link comprises a microphone audio signal. A NEXT Hub is provided comprising an integral computer comprising an operating system in functional control of the integral computer wherein the operating system comprises a digital signal processing module. A wireless receiver is provided which is capable of receiving the wireless link and transmitting the microphone audio signal to the touchscreen display. The touchscreen display comprises at least one speaker for transmitting a touchscreen audio output. The digital signal processing module transmits the microphone audio signal through at least one speaker simultaneously with the touchscreen audio output. The NEXT Hub provides for upgrade of legacy touchscreen digital displays by using existing touch process inputs and outputs of the legacy touchscreen digital displays.
The invention will be more readily understood with reference to the following specification in conjunction with the drawings herein:
The present invention relates to a NEXT Microphone, which is particularly suitable for use with a dedicated touchscreen device such as an interactive flat panel (IFP) or when interfaced through a NEXT Hub. More specifically, the present invention is related to a NEXT Microphone which allows for audio transmission through a dedicated touchscreen device wherein the audio from the NEXT Microphone can be augmented for volume or special effects such as overlay over audio emanating from a connected IFP.
A preferred embodiment of the invention operates with the latest 6000A+ series IFPs and particularly the NEXT Hub, both of which utilize a Rock Chip 3588 as an on-board chip. The on-board chip in concert with a USB receiver allows for voice overlay and integration along with voice augmentation and enhancement.
The voice augmentation and enhancements project the speaker's voice more intelligibly to the audience. Studies have shown that such voice augmentation and enhancement improves student comprehension because of the improved audio. The teacher's voice is more intelligible so students have a greater understanding of the subject matter. Studies have also shown that this greatly improves student retention. The invention also reduces vocal fatigue by allowing the speaker to use a normal voice and volume, rather than yelling.
In the prior art, if audio were to be routed through mounted or recessed speakers, the microphone/PA system would need a direct connection which is separate from the audio of the display. Without separation, audio/video output and microphone/voice output would be in conflict for the same amplification system. With the present invention, all the audio, video, touch sounds, and microphone input is routed through the USB receiver. The USB receiver allows for resolution of conflicts, thereby allowing audio output to occur simultaneously. A video can play and the presenter can talk, even allowing the audio of the video to be subservient in volume relative to the audio through the NEXT Microphone, such as of a speaker or lecturer, so the audio through the NEXT Microphone can take preeminence. This is also called audio ducking.
Audio ducking is preferably a function handled within a NEXT Hub. A digital signal processing (DSP) module integral to the NEXT Hub detects audio input from the line-out signal on the USB receiver. When this input is detected, the DSP module reduces the audio from the operating system of the NEXT Hub, allowing the NEXT Microphone to have priority with regards to volume and augmentation relative thereby allowing for audio ducking.
A particular problem associated with the prior art, particularly in audio ducking applications, is audio feedback. In an embodiment of the invention this is resolved by adding a magnetic loop to an adapter cable between the USB receiver and an audio visual input.
The invention will be described with reference to the figures which are an integral part of the instant disclosure provided for clarification of the description of the invention without limit thereto. As appropriate, similar elements will be numbered accordingly.
An embodiment of the invention is illustrated in schematic view in
Wireless links are common in the art and not particularly limited herein. Wireless links utilizing a signal over a carrier wave are well known and include Bluetooth and other wireless links carried over an ultrahigh frequency carrier wave as defined, for example, in legacy standard IEEE 802.15.1 and modernized equivalents thereof.
Though not limited thereto, I/O jacks in signal communication with the dedicated touchscreen device are referred to as device I/O jacks, and I/O jacks in signal communication with the touchscreen digital display are referred to as display I/O jacks for the purposes of clarity of discussion.
A NEXT Hub will be described with reference to
With further reference to
An embodiment of the NEXT Hub is illustrated schematically in
An embodiment of the NEXT Microphone is illustrated schematically in
An embodiment of the NEXT Microphone, 1010, is illustrated in schematic back view in
The NEXT microphone may be used with most modern IFPs and other audio visual hubs but is particularly well suited for use with a NEXT Hub, which comprises another aspect of the invention. The integral computer of the NEXT Hub preferably includes a 6000A+ series on-board chip that is capable of operation with all modern audio and video devices. A particularly preferred embodiment of the NEXT Hub comprises a 4k camera and a 6-array microphone to provide state of the art video capabilities for any touchscreen.
A particular advantage of the NEXT Hub is the ability to utilize different operating systems. Preferred operating systems include Windows loaded on the Intel Pluggable Specification (OPS), Smart Display Module (SDM), macOS or ChromeOS. Most preferably the operating system is Windows loaded on the Intel Pluggable Specification (OPS).
The NEXT Hub preferably comprises speakers thereby allowing full functionality as a sound bar. Most preferred are high-fidelity, high-volume amplifiers and speakers which provide clarity in larger environments such as those common in classrooms and boardrooms. Speakers which are 6-array speakers are preferable. Speakers coupled with an audio amplifier of at least 15 watts are preferable.
Connectivity is not particularly limited by the NEXT Hub. Particularly preferred are USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, VGA and other conventional cables due to widespread availability.
Typical IFPs and soundbars cannot receive a microphone input from an 4-pole TRRS jack and output the audio from the speaker. Conventional 4-pole TRRS jacks, illustrated schematically in
To provide further functionality, this embodiment of the invention even allows connection of the OPS computer from an IFP or a separate laptop. In this way, all former and current computing functionality is provided through the invention. For example, when connected in this manner, this embodiment of the invention allows for screen capturing, annotation, and touchscreen capability, using the existing glass screen, but all managed by the upgraded computer in the invention.
In a preferred embodiment, the NEXT Hub utilizes the chipset, software, and EDLA Android 13 ecosystem of 6000A+ panels. This means older touchscreens panels can get a software update, OS update, and feature set upgrade all within a device that is far more economical than full replacement of the touchscreen. It will also save on E-waste/disposal costs of old technology. Particularly preferred chips for interface with touchscreen devices are RK3588 available commercially from Rockchip Electronics Co. LTD.
This embodiment of the invention provides the latest software suite to all users. Prior art touchscreens typically did not provide for software upgrades and, when they did, the upgrades were time-consuming and cumbersome. The NEXT Hub is Internet connected and allows for seamless upgrades.
The shape and size of the inventive NEXT Hub is not particularly limited with the exception of having sufficient size to allow for the desired number of I/O jacks and, if employed, sufficient facial area for speaker performance. A particular embodiment is sufficiently small to fit into a conventional suitcase for travel. This allows the NEXT Hub to be mobile and connectible to any available video screen upon arrival, avoiding the need for shipment of a modern touchscreen, while simultaneously providing users the latest audio/video capabilities while traveling.
This aspect of the present invention is compatible with Enterprise Device Licensing Agreement (EDLA) certification requirement which allows for 16 points of touch. EDLA is a collaboration between Google and Android developers to certify a device according to a set of standards. Achieving EDLA has become a standard in and of itself for the IFP industry allowing for the panels to have a complete review by a third party. EDLA certification of the NEXT Hub allows older touchsource digital displays to be updated to a newer operating system, such as Android OS without prior vulnerabilities.
A touchscreen display manufacturer may provide many proprietary applications and functions that require a specific match between hardware and software, so they design and manufacture their own OPS computers to maximize the functionality of their touchscreens. If a user were to upgrade with a generic OPS computer, the result may be reduced functionality or even complete system failure due to mismatched hardware and software. Unscrupulous users may even upgrade a touchscreen display with a faster but less compatible computer and then attempt to pass it off as a newer model for sale.
In some cases, therefore, the solution is to upgrade the computer using a proprietary adapter to install a new OPS computer. But, where the touchscreen is very old or simply has little to no functionality beyond the glass itself, simply upgrading the computer only provides part of the solution.
Touch points are the number of touch points a screen can recognize simultaneously. A single touch point, for example, would only allow for simple control such as tap, scroll or swipe using a single stylus or finger, for example. With more simultaneous touch points more complex actions can be used such as multiple-finger scrolling, multiple finger expand or zoom, and more complex actions involving multiple fingers, or stylus points, on the screen simultaneously. The number of touch points is not particularly limited herein with the understanding that advances in the number of touch points on a screen will likely continue to grow and therefore the NEXT Hub allows compatibility with increased touch points which was previous difficult to provide.
Elements of the NEXT Hub not otherwise specified are well known in the art and not necessarily limited herein including memory storage, touch screen technology, power systems and the like. A particular feature of this aspect of the instant invention is the ability to interface and function with any system compatible with the generic operating system used such as Intel OPS.
Once the USB Receiver is connected to the device, all audio from the display is then routed through the Receiver including: the microphone, android OS audio, PC module audio, and external devices. The invention routes audio from the microphone through the audio system of the display, which allows the speaker's voice to “duck” audio already playing on the display. This means that a teacher, for example, may play an educational video on the display and then speak over the audio from that video in key portions to point out significant facts.
The wireless microphone already has a “clip” that allows it to be clipped to the presenters clothes. The microphone can also attached to a Collar adapter to be worn around the neck or connected to a handheld adapter. Again, the USB Receiver must be connected to a modern IFP, preferably one using a 6000A+ panel or the NEXT Hub.
The invention has been described with reference to the preferred embodiments without limit thereto. Those of skill in the art may realize additional improvements and embodiments which are not specifically stated but which are within the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims appended hereto.
This application claims priority to pending U.S. Patent Application No. 63/603,452 filed Nov. 28, 2023, which is incorporated by reference.
Number | Date | Country | |
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63603452 | Nov 2023 | US |