U.S. patent application number 13/540489 was filed with the patent office on 2012-10-25 for network addressible loudspeaker and audio play.
This patent application is currently assigned to Plantronics, Inc.. Invention is credited to Gunjan D. Bhow, John H. Hart.
Application Number | 20120269361 13/540489 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42934424 |
Filed Date | 2012-10-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120269361 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bhow; Gunjan D. ; et
al. |
October 25, 2012 |
Network Addressible Loudspeaker and Audio Play
Abstract
Methods and systems for network addressable loudspeakers and
audio play are presented. One or more network addressable
loudspeakers are registered at a server. An end user selects a
network addressable loudspeaker to output audio, and an audio file
is streamed from an audio source to the selected network
addressable loudspeaker.
Inventors: |
Bhow; Gunjan D.; (Menlo
Park, CA) ; Hart; John H.; (Saratoga, CA) |
Assignee: |
Plantronics, Inc.
Santa Cruz
CA
|
Family ID: |
42934424 |
Appl. No.: |
13/540489 |
Filed: |
July 2, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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12423232 |
Apr 14, 2009 |
8243949 |
|
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13540489 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
381/81 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 21/4108 20130101;
H04N 21/25891 20130101; H04R 2227/005 20130101; H04N 21/43615
20130101; H04N 21/4852 20130101; H04N 21/6377 20130101; H04N
21/6125 20130101; H04N 21/6587 20130101; H04R 2227/003 20130101;
H04N 21/44227 20130101; H04N 21/482 20130101; H04N 21/8106
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
381/81 |
International
Class: |
H04B 3/00 20060101
H04B003/00 |
Claims
1. A system for audio play comprising: a server; a network
addressable loudspeaker comprising: an audio output transducer; a
network interface; a processor; a computer readable memory storing
instructions which when executed by the processor cause the network
addressable loudspeaker to register with the server, receive an
audio signal via the network interface, and output the audio signal
through the audio output transducer; an audio source storing one or
more audio files; and a control device operable to communicate with
the server and select the network addressable loudspeaker from a
plurality of network addressable loudspeakers to receive a
streaming audio file from the audio source.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the audio source, the control
device, and the network addressable loudspeaker are decoupled from
one another and distributed at different network addresses within a
communications network.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the network addressable
loudspeaker are decoupled from both the audio source and the
control device at a different network address within a
communications network.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein the control device is a mobile
phone, portable computer, or desktop PC.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein the audio source is located on
the control device.
6. The system of claim 1, wherein the audio source is a
website.
7. A network addressable loudspeaker comprising: a network
interface; an amplifier; an audio output transducer; a processor; a
computer readable memory storing instructions which when executed
by the processor cause the network addressable loudspeaker to be
registerable with a remote server, receive an audio signal via the
network interface, and output the audio signal through the audio
output transducer; and a housing enclosure, the housing enclosure
including an access port for the audio output transducer, wherein
the amplifier, the processor, and the computer readable memory are
disposed within the housing enclosure.
8. The network addressable loudspeaker of claim 7, wherein the
network interface comprises a wireless transceiver.
9. The network addressable loudspeaker of claim 8, wherein the
wireless transceiver comprises a Bluetooth or 802.11
transceiver.
10. The network addressable loudspeaker of claim 7, further
comprising an electronic identifier used for addressing the network
addressable loudspeaker on a network.
11. The network addressable loudspeaker of claim 7, wherein the
electronic identifier used for addressing the network addressable
loudspeaker on a network is a Media Access Control (MAC)
address.
12. A system for audio play comprising: a first network addressable
speaker; and a second network addressable speaker, wherein an audio
is output or selectable to be output at the first network
addressable speaker or the second network addressable speaker
responsive to a proximity of an electronic device to the first
network addressable speaker or the second network addressable.
13. The system of claim 12, wherein the electronic device is a
wireless device.
14. The system of claim 13, wherein the wireless device is a
headset, a mobile phone, or a key FOB.
15. The system of claim 12, wherein the first network addressable
speaker or the second network addressable speaker is selected
automatically based on the proximity to the electronic device.
16. The system of claim 12, wherein the proximity of the electronic
device to the first network addressable speaker or the second
network addressable speaker is determined utilizing a wireless
link.
17. The system of claim 12, wherein the proximity of the electronic
device to the first network addressable speaker or the second
network addressable speaker is determined utilizing a received
signal strength indication.
18. The system of claim 12, wherein the electronic device is a
wearable device.
19. The system of claim 12, wherein the first network addressable
speaker has a first Internet Protocol address and the second
network addressable speaker has a second Internet Protocol
address.
20. The system of claim 12, wherein the audio is received from a
remote device having a network address different from a first
network addressable speaker network address and a second network
addressable speaker network address.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional application of application
Ser. No. 12/423,232, filed Apr. 14, 2009, entitled "Network
Addressible Loudspeaker and Audio Play". The full disclosure of
this application is incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] In recent years, end users of multimedia content including
music or video have begun to utilize a variety of electronic
devices to listen to listen to the audio and view the video
content. Furthermore, the available format by which the multimedia
content may be acquired and stored has increased. For example, in
addition to storage on compact disks (CDs) or digital video disks
(DVDs), audio and video content may also be stored in digital files
in memory at various electronic devices. Such electronic devices
may include, but are not limited to, web servers, desktop
computers, laptop computers, and portable multimedia electronic
devices such as smartphones and digital audio/video players.
[0003] In addition, delivery of multimedia content to end users via
communication networks such as the Internet has increased in
popularity. For example, end users may purchase and download
digital music or video from commercial websites such as Apple
iTunes. Multimedia content may also be streamed to the end user
whereby the user may listen to or view the streamed audio/video on
his device as the audio or video residing on a remote device is
being streamed. For example, an end user may listen to music on his
device streamed from an Internet radio station.
[0004] As the types of devices used to listen to, view, organize,
and store multimedia content increases, and the delivery of
multimedia content across communication networks increases,
improved methods and systems for listening to multimedia content
are needed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] The present invention will be readily understood by the
following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural
elements.
[0006] FIG. 1 illustrates a system for self registration of network
addressable loudspeakers.
[0007] FIG. 2 illustrates a system for audio play.
[0008] FIG. 3 illustrates a network addressable loudspeaker in one
example.
[0009] FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate web pages where a user identifies
a network addressable loudspeaker to add to his user profile.
[0010] FIG. 5 illustrates a web page where a user selects an audio
source for audio play.
[0011] FIG. 6 illustrates a web page where a user selects a network
addressable loudspeaker for audio play.
[0012] FIG. 7 illustrates the web page where a user identifies a
temporary network addressable loudspeaker to add to his user
profile as a guest user.
[0013] FIG. 8 illustrates a web page where a temporary network
addressable loudspeaker has been added to a user profile.
[0014] FIG. 9 illustrates automatic selection of a network
addressable loudspeaker from several network addressable
loudspeakers based on proximity.
[0015] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating a self registration
process for a network addressable loudspeaker.
[0016] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating a process for audio
play including audio source selection and loudspeaker
selection.
[0017] FIG. 12 is a flow diagram illustrating a process for
proximity detection and switching for network addressable
loudspeakers.
DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS
[0018] Methods and apparatuses for loudspeakers, selection of
loudspeakers, and audio play are disclosed. The following
description is presented to enable any person skilled in the art to
make and use the invention. Descriptions of specific embodiments
and applications are provided only as examples and various
modifications will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.
The general principles defined herein may be applied to other
embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and
scope of the invention. Thus, the present invention is to be
accorded the widest scope encompassing numerous alternatives,
modifications and equivalents consistent with the principles and
features disclosed herein. For purpose of clarity, details relating
to technical material that is known in the technical fields related
to the invention have not been described in detail so as not to
unnecessarily obscure the present invention.
[0019] In the prior art, end users of multimedia content using a
portable device such as a smartphone, portable music player, or
laptop computer are limited to using the loudspeakers on the
portable device when listening to or viewing multimedia content. By
tying the loudspeakers to either the source of the multimedia
content or to the control device being used to access, select, and
control playback of the multimedia content, the end user is limited
to the quality of the loudspeakers at the control device, which may
be of limited quality depending upon the control device.
[0020] In one example, a user-selectable network addressable
loudspeaker is provided that is decoupled from either the audio
source or the user control device. In a further example, a
user-selectable network addressable loudspeaker is provided that is
decoupled from both the audio source and the user control device.
The network addressable loudspeaker, audio source, and user control
device may be decoupled across the Internet. In one example
described herein, a software and hardware system to play
personalized audio sources from the Internet or home personal
computer to any desired selected loudspeaker using a mobile phone
or web browser enabled device. Although the singular term
"loudspeaker" may be used herein, such reference also applies to
multiple speakers, each of which may be outputting a channel of a
multi-channel audio performance, for example a pair of stereo
loudspeakers used to output the left and right channels of a stereo
audio signal. Similarly, the term "stream" is used herein in a
generic manner to denote the transmission of audio data for
subsequent reproduction, and is not limited to continuous, "real
time" transmission and reproduction of audio data.
[0021] The methods and systems described herein provide end users
with an improved audio listening experience and listening
flexibility. By providing decoupled, network addressable
loudspeakers, end users are now able to listen to their
cloud-centric music and other audio/video using the network
addressable loudspeakers, which may be designed to be of higher
quality or audiophile quality relative to the loudspeakers on their
portable computer or other portable audio/visual device.
[0022] In one example, where decoupled from both the control device
and audio source, the loudspeakers are self-contained units not
containing unnecessary components such as a display, keyboard, or
other similar user interface. As such, where an owner such as a
hotel operator wishes to provide high quality loudspeakers in every
room, the owner may provide the loudspeakers without the need to
purchase additional components associated with a computer, control
device, or audio source.
[0023] In one use scenario, when a newly purchased network
addressable loudspeaker (also referred to herein simply as a
"loudspeaker" or "speaker") is first powered-on and connected to
the Internet, a self-registration process is executed by the
loudspeaker whereby the loudspeaker connects to a web server and
transmits identification information. The owner or user of the
loudspeaker logs onto a web application residing on the web server
and adds the loudspeaker to his or her profile. A password and
assign name may also be associated with the added loudspeaker.
[0024] During the audio play process, a user logs on to the web
server and chooses which source of audio to play. After choosing
the audio source, the user selects which loudspeaker to send the
audio to. This may be accomplished, for example, using a browser on
a PC, a dedicated PC or Mac application, a browser on a mobile
phone, SMS message, or a dedicated application on a mobile phone.
For loudspeakers on their profile or previously used speakers, a
displayed list of selectable loudspeakers is already populated with
the loudspeaker names. The web server also shows the "status" of
each speaker, e.g., whether it is turned off, available, or busy
playing other audio. Once the user selects the loudspeaker, the web
server instructs the loudspeakers to connect to the audio source or
to the web server and then the audio starts streaming to the
selected loudspeakers.
[0025] For new loudspeakers which the user would like to use as a
guest (such as in a hotel, at a friend's place, or a coffee shop),
the guest user is provided the name of the speakers by the host or
the facility, and the associated optional password. For example, a
user staying at a particular hotel in room 3015 may select to use
the speakers in the room, which could be named "HotelSF3015". The
speaker names may be globally unique to avoid conflicts, or could
be only proximity-based to create a LAN-type setup where only local
uniqueness is necessary. Alternatively, a subdomain type setup
could facilitate this. During playback, a user can log into the web
server service and change the selected output loudspeakers.
[0026] In order to prevent a user from playing audio on a
loudspeaker the user is not authorized for or not in close
proximity to, a variety of security techniques may be implemented.
In one example, the speakers must be approved by the "owner" from
the web server or a mobile application. To further control the
permission, the owner can indicate the duration of any approval. In
addition to password protection similar to that of a wireless LAN,
proximity detection can provide another layer of policy control on
this issue. Speakers can be selected for playback only upon
verification of the same LAN gateway (i.e., speakers and the
control device need to be in the same subnet). While this does not
address a multi-tenant situation arising in a hotel or a pre-wired
apartment building, it dramatically reduces the possibilities of
conflict without sacrificing usability. In a further example, the
speakers can utilize the Bluetooth ID of the control device to
ensure proximity.
[0027] In one example, a system for audio play includes a server, a
network addressable loudspeaker, an audio source storing one or
more audio files, and a control device. The network addressable
loudspeaker includes an audio output transducer, a network
interface, a processor, and a computer readable memory storing
instructions which when executed by the processor cause the network
addressable loudspeaker to register with the server, receive an
audio signal via the network interface, and output the audio signal
through the audio output transducer. The control device is operable
to communicate with the server and select the network addressable
loudspeaker from a plurality of network addressable loudspeakers to
receive a streaming audio file from the audio source.
[0028] In one example, a computer readable storage medium stores
instructions that when executed by a computer cause the computer to
perform a method for managing audio play. The method performed
includes receiving a plurality of registrations from a plurality of
network addressable loudspeakers, associating one or more
selectable network addressable loudspeakers with a user profile,
and associating one or more selectable audio sources with the user
profile. The method further includes receiving a first user
selection from a user associated with the user profile, the first
user selection comprising a selected audio source, and receiving a
second user selection from the user associated with the user
profile, second user selection comprising a selected network
addressable loudspeaker. The method further includes initiating
streaming of an audio file from the selected audio source to the
selected network addressable speaker.
[0029] In one example, a network addressable loudspeaker includes a
network interface, an amplifier, an audio output transducer, a
processor, and a computer readable memory. The computer readable
memory stores instructions which when executed by the processor
cause the network addressable loudspeaker to register with a remote
server, receive an audio signal via the network interface, and
output the audio signal through the audio output transducer. The
network addressable loudspeaker further includes a housing
enclosure. The housing enclosure includes an access port for the
audio output transducer, wherein the amplifier, processor, and
computer readable memory are disposed within the housing enclosure.
Where the network interface is a wired interface, the housing
enclosure also includes an access opening for the network
interface.
[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates a system for self registration of network
addressable loudspeakers. Referring to FIG. 1, a server 2 executing
software capable of performing functions described herein is
coupled to the Internet 30. Server 2 includes a personalized sound
selection program 4 in communication with a database 6. The
database 6 includes user profiles 8 and registered speakers 10. A
loudspeaker 12 capable of connection to the Internet 30 via a
communication link 19 includes a self registration application 14.
A loudspeaker 16 capable of connection to the Internet 30 via a
communication link 21 includes a self registration application 14.
A loudspeaker 2Q capable of connection to the Internet 30 via a
communication link 23 includes a self registration application 14.
Although FIG. 1 only shows three loudspeakers in communication with
server 2 via Internet 30, in operation any number of loudspeakers
having self registration modules 14 may be in use. Communication
links 19, 21, 23 may be either wired or wireless links to the
Internet 30. In one example, a loudspeaker may include a unique
electronic identifier. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, loudspeaker
12 includes an electronic identifier 24.
[0031] In operation, during the self registration process each
loudspeaker 12, 16, 20 upon connection to the Internet 30
automatically sends identification information to server 2 to
indicate its presence and availability. Loudspeakers 12, 16, and 20
access Internet 30 utilizing a LAN router. For example, a speaker
may identify itself by sending an IP address or a unique electronic
identifier such as a globally unique electronic serial number. In
one example, the loudspeaker registers itself using its media
access control (MAC) address. Registered speakers 10 in database 6
include all loudspeakers which have self registered with the server
2. Each registered loudspeaker 12, 16, 20 is an Internet
addressable device following self registration. In one example,
loudspeakers 12, 16, 20 are stand alone independent speakers
without a keyboard or display user interface. Once registered, each
loudspeaker may receive commands and other messages from server 2,
operating as a client addressable over the Internet.
[0032] In further operation, following self registration, each
loudspeaker is claimed by a loudspeaker owner for use by the owner
and added to the owner's user profile in user profiles 8, as
discussed in a further detail with reference to FIG. 4. The
loudspeaker owner may also allow guest users access to such a
claimed loudspeaker, as discussed in further detail below with
reference to FIG. 7. During the audio play process, the user may
select from any of the registered loudspeakers associated with his
or her user profile.
[0033] FIG. 2 illustrates a system for audio play. The system
includes at least one registered Internet addressable loudspeaker,
at least one audio source storing one or more audio files, and at
least one control device connectable to server 2. An audio source
may be located at a variety of devices coupled to the Internet 30,
and is any source addressable on the web in one example. Thus, the
audio source may be remote from the user's current location and
control device.
[0034] The control device is operable to communicate with the
server and select the network addressable loudspeaker from a
plurality of network addressable loudspeakers to receive a
streaming audio file from the audio source. The control device may
be any device executing an application capable of communication
with server 2. For example, the control device may be a mobile
phone, portable computer, or desktop PC executing a micro web
browser or web browser.
[0035] In one sample configuration shown in FIG. 2, an audio source
32, a control device 44, and a network addressable loudspeaker 12
are decoupled from one another and distributed at different network
addresses within a communications network. In a further sample
configuration, a network addressable loudspeaker 12 is decoupled
from an audio source 36 at a control device 42 at a different
network address within a communications network.
[0036] Referring to FIG. 2, an audio source 32 is located at a
personal computer 38. For example, personal computer 38 may be at a
user's home or office. In one example, audio source 32 is the
user's library of digital music files. An audio source 34 is
located at a website 40. In one example, audio source 34 is an
Internet radio station or web based music subscription service.
[0037] A control device in communication with server 2 via the
Internet 30 is used during the audio play process, whereby the
audio play process may include selecting an audio source and
selecting a network addressable loudspeaker. In one example, a
control device 42 connects to the Internet 30 and server 2 via a
cellular network 54. For example, control device 42 may be a
cellular telephone or smartphone. Control device 42 includes a
micro web browser 47 for interaction with server 2. An audio source
may also be located at a control device. For example, control
device 42 includes an audio source 36.
[0038] In a further example, a control device 44, such as a
notebook or desktop computer connects to the server 2 via the
Internet 30. Control device 44 includes a web browser 50 for
interaction with server 2. In FIG. 2, loudspeakers 12, 16, 20, 48,
and 58 have been registered at server 2 and are available in
registered speakers 10 as described above in reference to FIG. 1.
Server 2 includes a personalized sound selection program 4
utilizing database 6.
[0039] In one example, a control device 46, loudspeaker 48, and
loudspeaker 58 connect to Internet 30 via a local area network
(LAN) 56, thereby having a matching LAN gateway and having the same
public IP address, though control device 46, loudspeaker 48, and
loudspeaker 58 have different local IP addresses.
[0040] In operation, during the audio play process a user logs onto
his account on server 2 using the personalized sound selection
program 4. The personalized sound selection program 4 accesses the
user's profile from database 6 and displays a list of audio sources
the user may select from and a list of registered loudspeakers the
user may select from. Depending upon the audio source, such as if
the audio source is at a remote home PC, the home PC must be
powered on to be selected. In a further example the user need only
select the desired registered loudspeaker.
[0041] Once the audio source and registered loudspeaker are
selected, the personalized sound selection program 4 initiates
streaming of the selected audio source to the selected registered
loudspeaker upon user command. Streaming between the selected audio
source and the selected registered loudspeaker may be performed in
a peer-to-peer implementation. Playback control of audio from the
audio, source is performed at the control device using an
appropriate user interface.
[0042] Referring again to FIG. 2, in one example a website 40
includes an audio source 34. For example, website 40 is any website
capable of streaming audio source 34 to a selected client device.
In operation, upon selection of website 40 as the desired source by
the user, server 2 interacts with website 40 and instructs website
40 to stream audio source 34 to the user selected network
addressable loudspeaker 12, 16, 20, 48 or 58 rather than to the
user control device or server 2.
[0043] In another example illustrated in FIG. 2, a personal
computer 38 includes an audio source 32. Utilizing a control device
42, 44, or 46, a user may browse lists of audio files in audio
source 32 and select a desired music for playback. The lists of
audio files on audio source 32 are viewed at a web application
operating on server 2, whereby the web application has been
synchronized with personal computer 38 to contain the metadata of
the audio files in audio source 32. In operation, upon receiving
user playback commands from control device 42, 44, or 46, server 2
interacts with personal computer 38 to stream the selected audio
file to the user selected network addressable loudspeaker 12, 16,
20, 48, or 58.
[0044] In a further example illustrated in FIG. 2, an audio source
36 is stored on control device 42. During the play process, upon
selection of audio source 32 at a control device 42, the user may
browse the audio files contained an audio source 32 using any
suitable application residing either on control device 42 or server
2. In operation, upon receiving user playback commands from control
device 42, server 2 interacts with control device 42 to stream the
selected audio file to the user selected network addressable
loudspeaker 12, 16, 20, 48, or 58.
[0045] The list of network addressable loudspeakers which the user
may select from may also include registered loudspeakers for which
the user has not previously claimed to his user account. For
example, if the user is in a hotel room or at a friend's house,
registered loudspeakers at those locations may also appear on the
speaker list. These loudspeakers can be either private loudspeakers
in a private residence, or public speakers in a public location or
place of business. If the user selects one of these private or
public speakers, he may be prompted to enter a password prior to
use.
[0046] In a further example, the list of network addressable
loudspeakers which the user may select from may be limited to only
loudspeakers identified as having a matching LAN to the currently
used control device. In this example, referring to FIG. 2, a user
at control device 46 is limited to selecting either network
addressable loudspeaker 48 or network addressable loudspeaker 58
within the same LAN 56. In this manner, a measure of proximity
between the control device 46 and selectable loudspeakers is
provided to assure appropriate speaker selection and use.
[0047] FIG. 3 illustrates a simplified diagram of a network
addressable loudspeaker 12 in one example. Configurations for
loudspeakers 16, 20, 48, and 58 are similar. Network addressable
loudspeaker 12 includes a processor 60 operably coupled via a bus
80 to a network interface 62, output transducer 64, memory 66,
amplifier 74, and power source 76. In one example, network
addressable loudspeaker 12 also includes an additional near-field
wireless interface, such as a Bluetooth transceiver, utilized as
described below in reference to FIG. 9 and FIG. 12 to link with a
control device or wearable device.
[0048] In one example, the network interface 62 is a wireless
transceiver and accompanying antenna for communications with a
wireless router or access point. For example, the wireless
transceiver is a Bluetooth or 802.11 transceiver. In a further
example, network interface 62 is a wired interface, such as that an
Ethernet jack used to connect to server 2 over the Internet or a
local area network. Processor 60 allows for processing data,
including managing registration information and streamed audio over
network interface 62. Processor 60 may include a variety of
processors (e.g., digital signal processors), with conventional
CPUs being applicable.
[0049] Memory 66 may include a variety of memories, and in one
example includes RAM, ROM, flash memory, or a combination thereof.
Memory 66 may further include separate memory structures or a
single integrated memory structure. Memory 66 stores an IP client
application 68 executed by processor 60 for client/server
communications with server 2. Memory 66 also stores a
self-registration application 14 executed by processor 60 to
register loudspeaker 12 at server 2. Memory 66 also includes an
audio application 72 executed by processor 60 to receive streamed
digital audio over the network interface 62 and output the audio
through output transducer 64.
[0050] The network addressable loudspeaker 12 further includes a
housing enclosure 78. The housing enclosure 78 may include an
access opening for the network interface 62 where network interface
is a wired interface, and an access opening 79 (also referred to
herein as a port) for the audio output transducer 64. The amplifier
74, processor 60, network interface 62, output transducer 64, and
memory 66 are disposed within the housing enclosure 78.
[0051] In one example, the network addressable loudspeaker 12 has a
unique electronic identifier 24 used for addressing network
addressable loudspeaker 12 on Internet 30. For example, the
electronic identifier 24 used for addressing the network
addressable loudspeaker 12 is a Media Access Control (MAC) address.
Where loudspeaker 12 includes an electronic identifier 24, in one
example the electronic identifier 24 is stored in memory 66 or at
network interface 62.
[0052] FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate web pages where a user identifies
a network addressable loudspeaker to add (also referred to herein
as "claim") to his user profile. Referring to FIG. 4A, a web page
400 is displayed to the user following user login. In one example,
user login to server 2 is performed utilizing a conventional name
and password entry system. Web page 400 includes a list 402 of
previously claimed speakers associated with the user's profile, a
list 404 of registered, but unclaimed loudspeakers, and a list 406
of nearby public loudspeakers available for free association. List
404 includes all unclaimed loudspeakers that have previously been
registered and are currently located on the same LAN as the user
control device. In this manner, by including only unclaimed
loudspeakers on the same LAN, the user is advantageously presented
with a limited subset of unclaimed speakers which are likely to be
the user's desired speaker. Furthermore, security is enhanced in
preventing the user from claiming speakers owned by others.
[0053] Upon selection by the user of a loudspeaker appearing in
list 404, a web page 450 illustrated in FIG. 4B is sent to the user
from server 2. Web page 450 includes an input field 408 where the
user enters the password associated with the desired registered
speaker he would like to claim to his user profile.
[0054] During the audio play process, a user accesses his user
profile from server 2, and selects an audio source and selects a
desired output loudspeaker. FIG. 5 illustrates a web page 500 where
a user selects an audio source for audio play during the audio play
process. Web page 500 is received from personalized sound selection
program 4 at server 2 and displayed at a user control device, and
includes a list 502 of audio sources which the user would like to
select audio files to play. In one example, each audio source in
list 502 may also include a status indicating whether the audio
source is currently available for selection. For example, where the
audio source is located at a personal computer that is currently
powered down, the audio source may be identified as unavailable.
Audio sources appearing list 502 may be added by the user via
personalized sound selection program 4.
[0055] As used herein, the term "audio source" also encompasses
video having corresponding audio. For example, selecting an audio
source file may include selecting a video file to view, whereby the
audio content corresponding to the video is streamed to the
selected network addressable loudspeaker and the video content is
displayed on the user control device or other selected display
device. The display device may itself be network addressable and
selected in a manner similar to selection of the audio source and
loudspeaker.
[0056] FIG. 6 illustrates a web page 600 where a user selects a
network addressable speaker for audio play. Web page 600 is
received from personalized sound selection program 4 at server 2
and displayed at a user control device, and includes a list 602 of
claimed registered speakers which the user would like to output the
audio from the audio source selected at web page 500. In the
example shown in web page 600, each loudspeaker in list 602 may
include a location descriptor 604 previously entered by the user,
and a status descriptor 606 indicating whether the loudspeaker is
currently available for selection. For example, status descriptor
606 may identify a loudspeaker as available, busy, or off. One of
ordinary skill in the art will recognize that other status
descriptors may be used in further examples. The loudspeaker name
may be previously assigned and correlated to a unique
identification code by the user during the claiming process.
[0057] FIG. 7 illustrates the web page 700 where a user identifies
a guest network addressable loudspeaker to add to his user profile
as a guest user. Web page 700 is received from server 2 and
displayed at a user control device, and includes a user input field
702 where the user enters the name or identification code of the
registered speaker which the user would like to add to his or her
user profile as a guest user. Web page 700 also includes a user
input field 704 where the user enters the password associated with
the desired loudspeaker. For example, the desired loudspeaker may
be a private or public loudspeaker as described above. The password
is provided to the user by the owner of the private or public
loudspeaker. At server 2, the personalized sound selection program
4 identifies whether the password entered by the user matches a
previously stored password associated with the entered loudspeaker
name or identification code. If there is a match, the loudspeaker
name or identification code is added to the user profile list of
selectable loudspeakers.
[0058] The owner of a registered loudspeaker may set various usage
policies for guest users. For example, the owner may allow his
registered loudspeaker to be selected for output only if the
control device has the same matching public IP address as his
registered loudspeaker. For example, where the owner is a hotel
with registered loudspeaker in each guest room, a guest user with
the correct speaker identification code and password may select a
hotel registered loudspeaker only if the guest users control device
has the same public IP address as the hotel loudspeakers. In this
manner, only a user within the hotel can utilize the hotel
loudspeakers. In a further example, the owner may set an expiration
date and time for any guest loudspeaker added to a user profile.
Upon reaching the expiration date, the guest loudspeaker is
automatically deleted from the user profile.
[0059] FIG. 8 illustrates a web page 800 where a user selects a
network addressable speaker for audio play. Web page 800 is
received from personalized sound selection program 4 at server 2
and displayed at a user control device, and includes a list 802 of
registered loudspeakers which the user may select from to output
audio. In web page 800, a guest network addressable loudspeaker 804
has been added to a user profile. For example, the guest network
addressable loudspeaker 804 may have been previously added using
web page 700 described above in reference to FIG. 7. In one
example, recently added loudspeakers to the user's profile or
loudspeakers which the user has added as a guest user may appear in
bold or otherwise highlighted text to assist the user in making a
predicted desired selection.
[0060] FIG. 9 illustrates automatic selection of a network
addressable loudspeaker from several network addressable
loudspeakers located in a floor plan 900 based on proximity. Floor
plan 900 includes a first room 902, a second room 904, a third room
906, and a fourth room 908. For example, where floor plan 900
corresponds to the home of a user 916, first room 902 may be the
user's kitchen, second room 904 may be the user's living room, and
third room 906 may be the user's bedroom. Located in first room 902
is a network addressable speaker 910. Located in second room 904 is
a network addressable speaker 912. Located in third room 906 is a
network addressable speaker 914. Network addressable speakers 910,
912, and 914 have been registered at server 2 and claimed by a user
916.
[0061] In the example illustrated in FIG. 9, rather than having a
user select the desired loudspeaker as illustrated in FIG. 6,
personalized sound selection program 4 automatically selects the
output loudspeaker based on physical proximity of the user to a
nearest loudspeaker. The user in his user profile at server 2 may
indicate that the nearest available loudspeaker should be
automatically selected as the default output loudspeaker. In one
example, the automated selection is based on the proximity of a
user control device 918 to loudspeakers 910, 912, and 914.
[0062] The proximity detection can be based on a Bluetooth link
between the user control device 918, such as a mobile phone, and a
Bluetooth enabled loudspeaker. The Bluetooth discovery protocol may
be utilized to identify Bluetooth enabled Loudspeakers within range
of user control device 918. Where the user control device 918 is
within Bluetooth range of a Bluetooth enabled loudspeaker, the
loudspeaker is automatically selected. As the user 916 with control
device 918 moves between rooms 902, 904, and 906, the selected
output loudspeaker is automatically switched to speaker 910, 912,
and 914, respectively. Where the user control device 918 is within
detectable wireless range of multiple loudspeakers 910, 912, and
914, proximity detection techniques such as received signal
strength indication (RSSI) may be used to identify the nearest
loudspeaker among several detected loudspeakers.
[0063] In a further example, a user 916 wearing a wearable device
920, such as a Bluetooth headset or Personal Authentication Link
(PAL) device, may move within room 902, 904, and 906. More
information on the PAL device can be found in U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/277,226 entitled "Portable Network Device
For The Discovery Of Nearby Devices And Services" filed on Nov. 24,
2008, attorney docket no. 01-7481, the disclosure of which is
incorporated by reference herein as if explicitly set forth. The
automated selection is based on the proximity of the user wearable
device 920 to loudspeakers 910, 912, and 914. A direct wireless
link between a wearable device 920 and loudspeakers 910, 912, and
914 is utilized. The wearable device 920 is logged into the server
2 using a web browser on a control device such as a laptop
computer, and the server 2 identifies the nearest proximity
loudspeaker speaker. In this example, the proximity detection is
through the wearable device 920 rather than the control device. In
a further example, the wearable device 920 is a key FOB.
[0064] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating a self registration
and claiming process for a network addressable loudspeaker. At
block 1002, a registration is received from a network addressable
loudspeaker. This registration may include an IP address of the
network addressable loudspeaker and/or a unique electronic
identifier, such as a MAC address, associated with the network
addressable loudspeaker. At block 1004, a user input is received to
add the registered network addressable loudspeaker to the user's
profile. At block 1006, the registered network addressable
loudspeaker is associated with the user' profile.
[0065] In one example, receiving the user input at block 1004
includes receiving a loudspeaker identifier from the user, the
loudspeaker identifier associated with a previously registered
network addressable loudspeaker not listed on the user profile, and
receiving a password associated with the loudspeaker identifier
from the user. Prior to adding the loudspeaker identifier to the
user profile of the user or automatically selecting the loudspeaker
identifier, it is identified whether the password received from the
user matches a previously stored password associated with the
loudspeaker identifier. In a further example, the user input need
only be a unique identification code.
[0066] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating an audio play process
for audio selection and playback including audio source selection
and loudspeaker selection. At block 1100, a communications link is
established with a user control device. At block 1102, a user
profile is accessed. At block 1104, a user selection comprising a
selected audio source is received. At block 1106, a user selection
comprising a selected network addressable loudspeaker is received.
At block 1108, streaming of an audio file from the selected audio
source to the selected network addressable speaker is
initiated.
[0067] The process may also include receiving or identifying an
availability status from each network addressable loudspeaker in
the user's profile. The process may also include receiving or
identifying an availability status from each audio source in the
user's profile.
[0068] In one example, a close proximity is detected between the
user control device and a network addressable loudspeaker. The
close proximity may be detected based upon a matching LAN gateway
or 1P address, or based on physical proximity determination. Upon
detecting the close proximity between the user control device and
the network addressable loudspeaker, the network addressable
loudspeaker is automatically selected and streaming of an audio
file from the selected audio source to the network addressable
speaker is initiated.
[0069] In a further example, when a user selection comprising a
selected network addressable loudspeaker is received at block 1106,
the selected network addressable loudspeaker is limited to one or
more identified network addressable loudspeakers having a desired
physical proximity to the user control device.
[0070] FIG. 12 is a flow diagram illustrating a process for
proximity detection and switching for network addressable
loudspeakers. At block 1202, a close proximity is detected between
a control device or a wearable device and one or more local network
addressable loudspeakers. At block 1204, the nearest network
addressable loudspeaker is identified. At decision block 1206, it
is determined whether the nearest network addressable loudspeaker
is currently selected as the output loudspeaker. If Yes at decision
block 1206, the process returns to block 1202. If No at decision
block 1206, at block 1208 the nearest network addressable
loudspeaker is automatically selected as the output loudspeaker. At
block 1210, steaming of the audio file is switched to the
automatically selected nearest network addressable loudspeaker from
the selected audio source.
[0071] The various examples described above are provided by way of
illustration only and should not be construed to limit the
invention. Based on the above discussion and illustrations, those
skilled in the art will readily recognize that various
modifications and changes may be made to the present invention
without strictly following the exemplary embodiments and
applications illustrated and described herein. Such changes may
include, but are not necessarily limited to: the type of
communication link between devices, either wired or wireless, the
types of computing devices used as control devices, the types of
computing devices storing audio sources, the specific method of
addressing a network addressable loudspeaker, and the proximity
detection techniques to identify a nearest loudspeaker.
Furthermore, the functionality associated with any blocks described
above may be centralized or distributed. It is also understood that
one or more blocks of the system may be performed by hardware,
firmware or software, or some combinations thereof. Such
modifications and changes do not depart from the true spirit and
scope of the present invention that is set forth in the following
claims.
[0072] While the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are
described and illustrated herein, it will be appreciated that they
are merely illustrative and that modifications can be made to these
embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. Thus, the scope of the invention is intended to be
defined only in terms of the following claims as may be amended,
with each claim being expressly incorporated into this Description
of Specific Embodiments as an embodiment of the invention.
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