Patent Application
20210281938
The invention relates generally to portable speakers, such as for personal use. More particularly, but not exclusively, the invention relates to methods, systems, and/or apparatus for adapting a portable speaker for use with a portable smart device to provide a user interface and audio source for the portable speaker.
The background description provided herein gives context for the present disclosure. Work of the presently named inventors, as well as aspects of the description that may not otherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are neither expressly nor impliedly admitted as prior art.
Portable speaker systems have been used in the electronics industry to allow users to be increasingly mobile in where and when they are able to enjoy audio listening. For example, stationary speakers are generally confined to their initial placement for a variety of reasons. These include a need of a power supply, weight, size, etc. Portable speakers, however, are generally lighter and smaller in size than a traditional speaker system and may allow a user to play music without a need for connection to power.
Speaker systems are used to project audio. Bluetooth, internet, Wi-Fi, internal storage, radio broadcasting, an auxiliary cord, etc. are examples of ways in which a speaker system can process and stream audio from a music source. In some instances, a smart device, such as a smart speaker, may be used in conjunction with a speaker system. The speaker is able to amplify the audio from the smart device to project the sound better than the smart speaker.
However, smart devices are limited, in that they generally require Wi-Fi or other wireless inputs (local area networks, wide area networks, cellular networks, or the like) to operate, require a tethered power supply, do not provide optimal sound outputs, and are otherwise not portable. These issues, among others, limit the use of smart devices with portable speakers in an on-the-go manner.
Thus, there exists a need in the art for a system, method, and/or apparatus that overcomes the issues of pairing smart devices with a portable speaker for true, portable use.
The following objects, features, advantages, aspects, and/or embodiments, are not exhaustive and do not limit the overall disclosure. No single embodiment need provide each and every object, feature, or advantage. Any of the objects, features, advantages, aspects, and/or embodiments disclosed herein can be integrated with one another, either in full or in part.
It is a primary object, feature, and/or advantage of any aspects of any embodiments disclosed in the present specification to improve on or overcome the deficiencies in the art.
It is another object, feature, and/or advantage of any aspects of any embodiments disclosed in the present specification to combine a portable speaker with a portable smart device.
It is a further object, feature, and/or advantage of any aspects of any embodiments disclosed in the present specification to make a smart device portable.
It is still another object, feature, and/or advantage of any aspects of any embodiments disclosed in the present specification to provide a portable, connected interface and/or audio input for a speaker.
The apparatus, systems, and/or methods disclosed herein can be used in a wide variety of applications. For example, generally any portable speaker, audio device, fixed speaker, or the like could be incorporated with aspects disclosed to provide a smart interface for accessing generally hands-free usage of the interface combination.
It is preferred the apparatus be safe, cost effective, and durable.
At least one embodiment disclosed herein comprises a distinct aesthetic appearance. Ornamental aspects included in such an embodiment can help capture a consumer's attention and/or identify a source of origin of a product being sold. Said ornamental aspects should not impede functionality of the present invention.
The apparatus, systems, and/or methods disclosed can be incorporated into systems or kits which accomplish some or all of the previously stated objectives.
These and/or other objects, features, advantages, aspects, and/or embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art after reviewing the following brief and detailed descriptions of the drawings.
Several embodiments in which the present invention can be practiced are illustrated and described in detail, wherein like reference characters represent like components throughout the several views. The drawings are presented for exemplary purposes and may not be to scale unless otherwise indicated.
The following definitions and introductory matters are provided to facilitate an understanding of the present invention. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which embodiments of the present invention pertain.
The terms “a,” “an,” and “the” include both singular and plural referents.
The term “or” is synonymous with “and/or” and means any one member or combination of members of a particular list.
The terms “invention” or “present invention” as used herein are not intended to refer to any single embodiment of the particular invention but encompass all possible embodiments as described in the specification and the claims.
The term “about” as used herein refers to slight variations in numerical quantities with respect to any quantifiable variable. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize inadvertent error can occur, for example, through use of typical measuring techniques or equipment or from differences in the manufacture, source, or purity of components. The claims include equivalents to the quantities whether or not modified by the term “about.”
The term “configured” describes structure capable of performing a task or adopting a particular configuration. The term “configured” can be used interchangeably with other similar phrases, such as constructed, arranged, adapted, manufactured, and the like.
Terms characterizing sequential order, a position, and/or an orientation are referenced according to the views presented. Unless context indicates otherwise, these terms are not limiting.
Mechanical, electrical, chemical, procedural, and/or other changes apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
A smart device is an electronic device, generally connected to other devices or networks via different wireless protocols such as Bluetooth, Zigbee, NFC, Wi-Fi, Li-Fi, mobile or cellular telecommunications technology, etc., that can operate to some extent interactively and autonomously. Several notable types of smart devices are smartphones, smart cars, smart thermostats, smart doorbells, smart locks, smart refrigerators, phablets and tablets, smartwatches, smart bands, smart key chains, smart speakers, and others. The term can also refer to a device that exhibits some properties of ubiquitous computing, including—although not necessarily—artificial intelligence.
Smart devices are typically composed of a hardware layer (including a radio that transmits signals), a network layer (through which devices communicate with each other), and an application layer (through which end users deliver commands). These layers often include the following characteristics, a set of system hardware and software ICT resources—this set is usually static fixed at design time; dynamic component-oriented resource extensions and plug-ins (Plug and play) of some hardware resources; remote external service access and execution; local, internal autonomous service execution; access to specific external environments: human interaction, physical world interaction and distributed ICT/virtual computing interaction; and ubiquitous computing properties (processing units).
One example of a smart device is a smart speaker, which may be generally referred to as a type of wireless speaker and voice command device with an integrated virtual assistant that offers interactive actions and hands-free activation with the help of one “hot word” (or several “hot words”). Some smart speakers can also act as a smart device that utilizes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and other wireless protocol standards to extend usage beyond audio playback, such as to control home automation devices. This can include, but is not limited to, features such as compatibility across a number of services and platforms, peer-to-peer connection through mesh networking, virtual assistants, and others. Each can have its own designated interface and features in-house, usually launched or controlled via application or home automation software. The smart speakers include one or more speakers for projecting audio as well as a user interface. The user interface may be a graphical or other interface that requires a touch to activate (e.g., a smart display), or may include one or more microphones wherein the user interface involves a “hot word” and/or command to operate. Examples of such smart speakers may include, but are not limited to, the Amazon Echo lineup (Echo, Dot, Plus, Show, Spot), Apple HomePod, Google Home series, Harman Kardon INVOKE, Galaxy Home Bixby, and the like.
One issue with at least some of the smart speakers, as well as other smart devices, is that they are limited in use by one or both of a tethered power source and the need for a network for the smart speaker/device to connect to be able to utilize the full functionalities of the device. For example, the device may require a wired plug-in for power. Other examples may require that the smart device requires a separate device to generate a wireless network that the smart device can connect, such as to be able to communicate with remote servers, satellites, other devices, or the like, in which one or more applications may reside. Such application can include, but are not limited to, weather reports, news, peer-to-peer communications, music, movies, audio books, games, and other general information.
Additional issues may include that the built-in speakers of the smart speakers or other devices may be insufficient for producing and/or projecting an adequate or otherwise desired audio output. This could be the level of sound, quality of sound, projection of sound in an area, acoustic resonance, clarity, accuracy, fidelity, or other output from the smart device. Thus, the smart device/speaker may be paired with another speaker system to enhance the audio output of the smart device/speaker. In such a situation, the smart speaker may be similar to a conduit or interface to connect to an application, such as a music source, and then to convey at least the audio output to the separate speaker. The connection between the smart device/speaker and the separate speaker can be wired or wirelessly, such as via WiFi, Bluetooth, near field communication (NFC), cellular or mobile communication, LAN, WAN, or the like. Such a connection may be referred to as “pairing” the smart device and the speaker.
Similar to that disclosed, there are limitations in that only one of the smart device or the speaker may be a mobile or portable device that is free from tethering (such as a wired power source). This limits the ability to use the devices in an on-the-go manner, or without a network projecting device (handheld, laptop, modem, router, server, cell phone, mobile hotspot, or the like). This creates a wireless tether that can limit the use of the portable speaker or smart device, such as in remote areas or times when a mobile hotspot is not available.
Therefore, according to any of the aspects and/or embodiments disclosed in the present disclosure, a portable system 10 provides for the portability of a smart device that untethers the smart device/speaker for greater use in more locations, such as remote locations, outdoor locations, or other situations in which a network or mobile hotspot is not available.
As shown in
The smart device 12 may be any smart device, such as those previously disclosed. However, for purposes of disclosure, the exemplary smart device 12 shown in the figures is a smart speaker 12, such as an Amazon Echo Dot™. It should be appreciated that this is not to be limiting on the disclosure, and generally any type, shape, brand, size, or otherwise for a smart speaker or device is contemplated to be utilized with any of the aspects of any of the embodiments disclosed herein. Still further, the term smart device should be considered to include the components of a smart device as has been included herein. The shape of the device, including the housing making up the smart system 10 can vary from that shown such that any shape, size, and/or orientation of components be included and considered as part of the present disclosure.
Accordingly, the smart speaker 12 shown in the figures includes a speaker housing 14 that houses the electronics, speakers, processors, memory, wireless modules (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, cellular, or similar), and/or any ports (such as input and/or output I/O ports). The ports may include a power input, such as an auxiliary port or the like for connecting a power source. Traditionally, the port may be a wired power input connected to a power outlet or portable power source (i.e., a battery). In addition, it should be appreciated that the power source may be integral with the smart device, such as housed in the housing in the form of a rechargeable battery. There may still be a port for connecting to a battery charging cord, stand, or the like. Also shown in the figures is a user interface 16 for the smart speaker 12. The interface shown is in the form of buttons that are activated to access controls, such as sound controls (volume and/or mute), activation buttons, and/or buttons to activate the wireless connectivity features to connect to a network. Still other smart devices may include additional interfaces, such as graphical user interfaces, displays, and the like. Still further, the interface may include a microphone in the housing, in which a hot word or words activates the smart speaker/device, and additional voice inputs cause activation of the speaker. For example, the voice inputs may indicate the smart speaker to play a song, songs, playlist, station, radio station, news, weather, trivia, jokes, or other audio output, which is played through the speaker of the smart speaker. However, as disclosed, the size and capabilities of the speaker may be limited due to, in part, the size constraints of the smart speaker.
The adapter 20 is included to provide additional capabilities to the smart speaker 12. Such capabilities include, but are not limited to, portable power, portable network creation and/or connection, as well as a housing for connecting to/with or otherwise associating with a secondary output, such as a speaker 30.
As shown in
In addition, as noted, it should be appreciated that the adapter or housing 20 may be formed integrally with the smart device, such that the components of the adapter 20 (e.g., the components shown in
As shown in the figures, the base 23 and upstanding wall 24 are generally circular, with the height of the wall being such that smart device is able to be received within a recess 25 formed by the base and wall. This is considered to be varied as needed. The housing comprises generally a rigid or semi-rigid material, such as, but not limited to, a plastic or thermoplastic, metal, rubber, silicone, or some combination thereof, such as with various components of the housing comprising the different materials.
In addition, as shown in
The housing 22 of the adapter 20 is configured to house additional components, such as electronic components. These may include various modules, wires, and the like. The components may be housed in any portion of the housing 22, including the base 23 and/or wall(s) 24.
One or more embodiments described herein can be implemented using programmatic modules, engines, or components. A programmatic module, engine, or component can include a program, a sub-routine, a portion of a program, or a software component or a hardware component capable of performing one or more stated tasks or functions. A module or component can exist on a hardware component independently of other modules or components. Alternatively, a module or component can be a shared element or process of other modules, programs, or machines.
As shown in
With respect to batteries, a dry cell battery may be used. Additionally, the battery may be rechargeable, such as a lead-acid battery, a low self-discharge nickel metal hydride battery (“LSD-NiMH”) battery, a nickel—cadmium battery (“NiCd”), a lithium-ion battery, or a lithium-ion polymer (“LiPo”) battery. Careful attention should be taken if using a lithium-ion battery or a LiPo battery to avoid the risk of unexpected ignition from the heat generated by the battery. While such incidents are rare, they can be minimized via appropriate design, installation, procedures and layers of safeguards such that the risk is acceptable.
The power supply could also be driven by a power generating system, such as a dynamo using a commutator or through electromagnetic induction. Electromagnetic induction eliminates the need for batteries or dynamo systems but requires a magnet to be placed on a moving component of the system.
The power supply may also include an emergency stop feature, also known as a “kill switch,” to shut off the machinery in an emergency or any other safety mechanisms known to prevent injury to users of the machine. The emergency stop feature or other safety mechanisms may need user input or may use automatic sensors to detect and determine when to take a specific course of action for safety purposes.
Additionally, the adapter 20 includes at least one wireless communication module 28 and can also include additional communication modules 29. The communication modules are provided to create a network for the smart speaker/device 12. In some embodiments, the network is, by way of example only, a wide area network (“WAN”) such as a TCP/IP based network or a mobile or cellular network, a local area network (“LAN”), a neighborhood area network (“NAN”), a home area network (“HAN”), or a personal area network (“PAN”) employing any of a variety of communication protocols, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, near field communication (“NFC”), etc., although other types of networks are possible and are contemplated herein. The network typically allows communication between the communications module and the central location during moments of low-quality connections. Communications through the network can be protected using one or more encryption techniques, such as those techniques provided in the IEEE 802.1 standard for port-based network security, pre-shared key, Extensible Authentication Protocol (“EAP”), Wired Equivalent Privacy (“WEP”), Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (“TKIP”), Wi-Fi Protected Access (“WPA”), and the like. According to at least some embodiments, the wireless module is a 4G LTE or 5G module for connecting to a cellular network.
The first and/or second communication module 28, 29 can also be used to connect to the smart speaker 12 and/or secondary output 30. In addition, additional wireless connection modules may be included to connect to the secondary output 30 or other devices. For example, the output may be a speaker system 30. A first wireless module 28 of the adapter 20 creates or otherwise connects to a network, such as a cellular network in a remote location. The smart speaker 20 connects to the cellular network to provide smart features and/or functionalities. The smart speaker can connect, either to the adapter or directly to the speaker 30 via the same cellular network or via a separate network, such as via Bluetooth, Airplay, NFC, or other wireless streaming protocol. Thus, the speaker 30 can be used to receive an output from the smart speaker 12 to enhance the audio output therefrom.
Additional aspects that may be included as part of the adapter 20 include a memory 32, processing unit(s) 34, display 36, and/or ports 38.
The memory includes, in some embodiments, a program storage area and/or data storage area. The memory can comprise read-only memory (“ROM”, an example of non-volatile memory, meaning it does not lose data when it is not connected to a power source) or random access memory (“RAM”, an example of volatile memory, meaning it will lose its data when not connected to a power source). Examples of volatile memory include static RAM (“SRAM”), dynamic RAM (“DRAM”), synchronous DRAM (“SDRAM”), etc. Examples of non-volatile memory include electrically erasable programmable read only memory (“EEPROM”), flash memory, hard disks, SD cards, etc. In some embodiments, the processing unit, such as a processor, a microprocessor, or a microcontroller, is connected to the memory and executes software instructions that are capable of being stored in a RAM of the memory (e.g., during execution), a ROM of the memory (e.g., on a generally permanent basis), or another non-transitory computer readable medium such as another memory or a disc.
In computing, a processing unit, also called a processor, is an electronic circuit which performs operations on some external data source, usually memory or some other data stream. Non-limiting examples of processors include a microprocessor, a microcontroller, an arithmetic logic unit (“ALU”), and most notably, a central processing unit (“CPU”). A CPU, also called a central processor or main processor, is the electronic circuitry within a computer that carries out the instructions of a computer program by performing the basic arithmetic, logic, controlling, and input/output (“I/O”) operations specified by the instructions. Processing units are common in tablets, telephones, handheld devices, laptops, user displays, and other computing devices capable of allowing input, providing options, and showing output of electronic functions.
The adapter 20 according to the aspects of the present disclosure may also include components such as an intelligent control (i.e., a controller) and communication components. Examples of such a controller may be processing units alone or other subcomponents of computing devices. The controller can also include other components and can be implemented partially or entirely on a semiconductor (e.g., a field-programmable gate array (“FPGA”)) chip, such as a chip developed through a register transfer level (“RTL”) design process.
A user interface is how the user interacts with a machine. While the smart device 12 may include its own user interface that is used when the device is combined with an adapter, according to some embodiments, such as when the smart device does not include an interface, the adapter could be provided with a user interface. The user interface can be a digital interface, a command-line interface, a graphical user interface (“GUI”) or any other way a user can interact with a machine. For example, the user interface (“UI”) can include a combination of digital and analog input and/or output devices or any other type of UI input/output device required to achieve a desired level of control and monitoring for a device. Examples of input and/or output devices include computer mice, keyboards, touchscreens, knobs, dials, switches, buttons, etc. Input(s) received from the UI can then be sent to a microcontroller to control operational aspects of a device.
The user interface module can include a display, which can act as an input and/or output device. More particularly, the display can be a liquid crystal display (“LCD”), a light-emitting diode (“LED”) display, an organic LED (“OLED”) display, an electroluminescent display (“ELD”), a surface-conduction electron emitter display (“SED”), a field-emission display (“FED”), a thin-film transistor (“TFT”) LCD, a bistable cholesteric reflective display (i.e., e-paper), etc. The user interface also can be configured with a microcontroller to display conditions or data associated with the main device in real-time or substantially real-time. In some embodiments, the adapter 20 could include one or more communications ports such as Ethernet, serial advanced technology attachment (“SATA”), universal serial bus (“USB”), or integrated drive electronics (“IDE”), for transferring, receiving, or storing data. The ports could also be ports for an external power supply or charger, or even connecting to a secondary output 30, to transfer the audio and/or video from the smart device to the secondary output 30.
The adapter can be connected to or otherwise associated with a secondary output, such as a speaker, in a number of ways. There could be a fastener, adhesive, friction fit, knurl, seat, or the like. The adapter could be a separate component/system that is not attached to the secondary output, and may be positioned near or adjacent the output as well.
For exemplary purposes, the portable smart system 10 as shown and/or disclosed including the smart speaker 12 and adapter 20 can be used with a speaker system 30, such as shown in
As shown in
A first side portion 52 of the housing 50 extends generally upwardly from the base 51. The first side portion 52 includes, at a lower portion, external speaker openings 60A that are adapted to receive outward facing speakers. While two such openings 60A are shown, any number of openings may be provided. At an upper portion of the first or front wall 52 is an opening or recess 59 for receiving the adapter 20 or combined system 10 including the adapter 20 and smart speaker 12. As noted, the smart system 10 can be housed with, in, or to the speaker in a number of ways. For example, the adapter housing 22 or the all-in-one smart system 10 can be fit, such as friction fit, in or at least partially in the recess 59. An adhesive, such as glue, tape, hook and loops, snap, or the like could aid in holding, at least temporarily, the adapter to the speaker housing 50. In addition, it is noted that the front wall 52 of the speaker 30 is curved from the base towards the top. A handle recess 58 may be provided near the top edge of the first side portion 52 to facilitate carrying and placing a speaker system that uses the housing 50.
The rear wall 53 of the housing 50, shown throughout the figures, is of a similar upward extension and curvature as the front wall 52. The rear wall 53 also includes a handle portion 58 at or near the upper portion thereof.
The housing 50 may be formed from injection molded plastic pieces that snap together and may be secured with additional fasteners, such as threaded screws or the like in a known manner. For example, the housing may comprise, in some embodiments, four injected molded pieces that are put together. However, fewer or more components are also to be contemplated.
It is contemplated that the housing 50 can take a variety of different forms and is not limited to the raindrop or teardrop shape as shown in the figures. It is also contemplated that the housing can be made from a variety of materials or combination of materials. Exemplary examples include a type of wood or a thermoset plastic coated with rubber, but the housing material is not limited to these. Foams, rubbers, silicones (e.g., coatings), vinyl, leather, metals, or some combination of the same may be used. As will be understood, according to at least some aspects of the disclosure, the invention may be buoyant such that the material chosen allows for the speaker to float. Thus, it is further contemplated that the speaker housing comprises or otherwise be covered in a generally waterproof material. To aid in keeping the housing generally upright, a weight or weighted member may be included in a lower portion of the housing to maintain a desired orientation of the speaker or speaker housing system.
As shown throughout
The tunnel 56 may be formed by the shape of the housing 50 itself or may be a separate tube having the desired cross-sectional shape, effective diameter, and length. The effective diameter and length of the tube can be used to control the acoustic resonance of the tube in order to enhance and amplify desired sound frequencies. For example, it is noted that the invention may amplify the low frequency nodes and/or antinodes produced by the subwoofer output. The material of the tube or housing 50 may also affect the sound quality depending upon its sound reflecting and absorbing properties. The tube may also be chosen to have a different and complementary color as compared to the color of the housing 50 to provide a desired and aesthetically pleasing accent.
Still further, two speakers 62 are shown to be positioned in and through the front wall 52 at the speaker ports 60A. The speakers shown are 3-inch full range speakers, but any suitable speaker is considered. Still further, an inward facing speaker 63 is exploded from, but shown to be positioned in and through the wall 57 of the tunnel 56 at the speaker port 60B. The speaker is shown to be a 3-inch woofer, but other suitable speakers are considered. As noted, the cone of the speaker 63 is configured to be oriented into the tunnel through the wall 57, such that the sound from the speaker 63 will be directed into the tunnel, which creates an enhanced acoustic resonance.
While a particular and/or exemplary speaker has been shown and described, it should be appreciated that generally any type of speaker, and not the specific speaker shown, can be used with the portable system 10 comprising the smart device 12 and the adapter 20. For example, the connectivity of the smart device itself, or in conjunction with the adapter 20, allows for the portable system 10 to be connected to generally any external device (speaker, smart device, TV, computer, phone, handheld, or the like capable of being paired with a smart device in a wired or wireless manner.
The combination of the smart device 12 and the adapter 20 allows for an otherwise non-portable smart device to be utilized in an on-the-go manner, regardless of connectivity to a local network. Furthermore, as the adapter includes its own network module, the portable system 10 can be used without any external device, such as a cellular device, WiFi device, external speaker, power source, or the like.
It should be appreciated that the all-in-oneness of the portable system 10 allows the smart device to be used in many more locations than it otherwise would. This includes remote locations, such as camping, boating, on the water, biking, swimming, hiking, or in other circumstances where there is not a local network and where one may not wish to take their cellular or mobile phone. The adapter provides for a reduction of the number of devices needed, which is advantageous for on-the-go people who wish to take the bare minimum of equipment, but still wish to have some connectivity, such as for music, news, weather, or other information.
The present disclosure is not to be limited to the particular embodiments described herein. The scope of the invention is further qualified as including any possible combination of any of the aspects of any of the embodiments disclosed to result in additional embodiments, combinations, subcombinations, or the like that would be obvious to those skilled in the art.
This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to provisional patent application U.S. Ser. No. 62/986,231, filed Mar. 6, 2020. The provisional patent application is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety, including without limitation, the specification, claims, and abstract, as well as any figures, tables, appendices, or drawings thereof.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62986231 | Mar 2020 | US |
