U.S. patent application number 16/027346 was filed with the patent office on 2020-01-09 for media control devices, systems and methods.
The applicant listed for this patent is Jonathan S. Jensen, Kirk Lepchenske. Invention is credited to Jonathan S. Jensen, Kirk Lepchenske.
Application Number | 20200014786 16/027346 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 57775292 |
Filed Date | 2020-01-09 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200014786 |
Kind Code |
A9 |
Lepchenske; Kirk ; et
al. |
January 9, 2020 |
MEDIA CONTROL DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS
Abstract
Media control devices, methods and systems for communicating
with mobile devices and headsets are disclosed. At least one
control device may include a top surface, a bottom surface,
circuitry for communicating with mobile devices and headsets, at
least one button designed to be manipulated by users wearing
gloves; a microphone for receiving audio input from the users, and
a securement mechanism for securing the control device to the
users' person, clothing and/or equipment.
Inventors: |
Lepchenske; Kirk;
(Pocatello, ID) ; Jensen; Jonathan S.; (Pocatello,
ID) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Lepchenske; Kirk
Jensen; Jonathan S. |
Pocatello
Pocatello |
ID
ID |
US
US |
|
|
Prior
Publication: |
|
Document Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20190020753 A1 |
January 17, 2019 |
|
|
Family ID: |
57775292 |
Appl. No.: |
16/027346 |
Filed: |
July 4, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15209095 |
Jul 13, 2016 |
10063689 |
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16027346 |
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29533282 |
Jul 15, 2015 |
D772201 |
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15209095 |
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62192550 |
Jul 14, 2015 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45F 5/02 20130101; H04M
1/7258 20130101; H04M 1/72533 20130101; H04M 1/05 20130101; H04M
1/72558 20130101; H04M 2250/02 20130101; H04M 1/60 20130101; H04M
1/6058 20130101; H04M 1/7253 20130101; H04B 1/385 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H04M 1/725 20060101
H04M001/725; H04B 1/3827 20150101 H04B001/3827; H04M 1/05 20060101
H04M001/05; H04M 1/60 20060101 H04M001/60 |
Claims
1. A control device for communicating with a mobile device and a
headset, the control device comprising: a top surface; a bottom
surface; circuitry for communicating with a mobile device and a
headset, wherein the circuitry is adapted to enable a user to
control the volume of audio signals, to stop and play audio
signals, and to answer incoming phone calls; at least three buttons
situated on the top surface designed to be actuated by a user
wearing gloves; a microphone for receiving audio input from the
user; a securement mechanism for securing the control device to at
least one of the following: the user's person, clothing or
equipment; and wherein the control device is operable in wet
conditions.
2. The control device of claim 1, wherein three of the at least
three buttons are situated substantially in line relative to each
other.
3. The control device of claim 1, wherein the at least three
buttons comprises: a first button, a second button, and a third
button; wherein at least one of the at least three buttons allows
the user to control the volume of audio signals; wherein at least
one of the at least three buttons allows the user to stop audio
signals; wherein at least one of the at least three buttons allows
the user to play audio signals; and wherein at least one of the at
least three buttons allows the user to answer incoming phone
calls.
4. The control device of claim 1, further comprising a jack for
receiving a plug.
5. The control device of claim 4, wherein the headset comprises a
microphone alternate to the microphone of the control device; and
wherein the circuitry comprises a switch, which when articulated,
inactivates the microphone on the control device and allows a user
to use the headset's microphone.
6. The control device of claim 1, wherein the control device is
detachable from both the mobile device and the headset.
7. The control device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the at
least three buttons can only be actuated when about 1.7 Newton to
about 10 Newtons of force is exerted on at least one of the at
least three buttons.
8. The control device of claim 1, wherein the circuitry
automatically pauses, stops or mutes signals communicated from the
mobile device to the control device upon the arrival of an incoming
phone call to the mobile device; wherein the circuitry
automatically resumes playing signals communicated from the mobile
device to the control device upon the termination of an incoming
phone call to the mobile device.
9. The control device of claim 6, wherein the at least three
buttons comprises: a first button, a second button, and a third
button; wherein the first button allows the user to control the
volume of audio signals; wherein the second button allows the user
to control the volume of audio signals; wherein the third button
allows the user to stop and play audio signals and answer incoming
phone calls.
10. The control device of claim 1, wherein the circuitry comprises
a first signal path, a second signal path, and a third signal path;
wherein the first signal path facilitates the flow of signals from
the mobile device ultimately to either a right or left speaker of
the headset; wherein the second signal path facilitates the flow of
signals from the mobile device ultimately to a speaker alternate to
that of the first signal path; and wherein the third signal path
facilitates the flow of signals from the control device ultimately
to the mobile device.
11. The control device of claim 1, wherein the circuitry comprises
a volume control system that, in conjunction with at least one of
the at least three buttons, facilitates the control of the volume
of audio signals.
12. The control device of claim 3, wherein the circuitry comprises:
a first push button, a second push button, a third push button, and
a microphone system.
13. The control device of claim 12, wherein the first push button
facilitates the operation of the first button; wherein the second
push button facilitates the operation of the second button; wherein
the third push button facilitates the operation of the third
button; and wherein the microphone system facilitates the operation
of the microphone.
14. The control device of claim 6, wherein the at least three
buttons consist of exactly three buttons: a first button, a second
button and a third button.
15. The control device of claim 1, wherein the circuitry comprises
at least one microprocessor system and at least one wireless
communication system.
16. The control device of claim 1, further comprising an interface
and a volume control mechanism; wherein the interface is adapted to
allow the user to receive information from and input information
into the control device; wherein the circuitry comprises a
microprocessor system, a display system, a wireless communication
system, a power system, a microphone system, and a volume control
system; wherein the microprocessor system facilitates the
processing of communication from at least one of the following: the
control device, the mobile device or the headset; wherein the
display system facilitates the operation of the interface; wherein
the wireless communication system facilitates wireless
communication with the control device and at least one of the
following: the mobile device or the headset; wherein the power
system facilitates the management of power of at least one of the
following: the control device, the mobile device and the headset;
wherein the microphone system facilitates the operation of the
microphone; and wherein the volume control system, in conjunction
with the volume control mechanism, facilitates the control of the
volume of audio signals communicated to the headset.
17. The control device of claim 16, wherein the microprocessor
system comprises: a data packetization/de-packing and/or
merging/splitting system; an audio/video remote control protocol
and/or encode/decode system; a display interface system; a user
control inputs system; an advanced audio distribution profile
and/or decode/encode system; a digital output conditioning and/or
volume control system; a digital-to-analog conversion system; a
digital input conditioning system; an analog-to-digital conversion
system; and a local and/or boom microphone selector system.
18. The control device of claim 1, wherein the control device is
manufactured to be waterproof.
19. A method of using a control device for communicating with a
mobile device and a headset, wherein the control device comprising:
a top surface; a bottom surface; circuitry for communicating with a
mobile device and a headset, wherein the circuitry is adapted to
enable a user to control the volume of audio signals, to stop and
play audio signals, and to answer incoming phone calls; at least
three buttons situated on the top surface designed to be actuated
by a user wearing gloves; a microphone for receiving audio input
from the user; a securement mechanism for securing the control
device to at least one of the following: the user's person,
clothing or equipment; and wherein the control device is operable
in wet conditions; wherein the method of using the control device
comprising: listening to music communicated to the headset while
the user engages in a sport and/or other activity; automatically
stopping the music being communicated to the headset when an
incoming phone call arrives at the mobile device; actuating at
least one of the at least three buttons on the control device while
wearing gloves or other equipment to take the incoming phone call;
speaking into the microphone on the control device to communicate
with the caller; and terminating the call when the caller hangs up
or when the user actuates at least one of the at least three
buttons on the control device.
20. A method of using a control device for communicating with a
mobile device and a headset, wherein the control device comprising:
a top surface; a bottom surface; circuitry for communicating with a
mobile device and a headset, wherein the circuitry is adapted to
enable a user to control the volume of audio signals, to stop and
play audio signals, and to answer incoming phone calls; at least
three buttons situated on the top surface designed to be actuated
by a user wearing gloves; a microphone for receiving audio input
from the user; a securement mechanism for securing the control
device to at least one of the following: the user's person,
clothing or equipment; and wherein the control device is operable
in wet conditions; wherein the method of using the control device
comprising: listening to audio signals communicated to the headset
while a user engaging in a sport and/or other activity; and
actuating at least one of the at least three buttons on the control
device while wearing gloves or other equipment to modify the audio
signals being communicated to the headset.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present patent document claims the benefit of and
priority to:
[0002] U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 15/209,095,
entitled "MEDIA CONTROL DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS", filed on
Jul. 13, 2016, the entire contents of which is hereby incorporated
by reference as part of this application;
[0003] U.S. Design Patent Application Ser. No. 29/533,282, entitled
"CONTROL DEVICE", filed on Jul. 15, 2015, the entire contents of
which is hereby incorporated by reference as part of this
application, and U.S. Design Patent Serial No. D772,201 S, entitled
"CONTROL DEVICE", which issued from U.S. Design Patent Application
Ser. No. 29/533,282, on Nov. 22, 2016, the entire contents of which
is hereby incorporated by reference as part of this application;
and
[0004] U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/192,550,
entitled "CONTROL DEVICES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS", filed on Jul. 14,
2015, the entire contents of which is hereby incorporated by
reference as part of this application.
BACKGROUND
Technical field
[0005] The disclosure relates to control devices, systems and
methods for communicating with mobile devices and headsets.
Discussion of related field
[0006] Sports enthusiasts engage in a variety of activities that
make it difficult to wear and operate mobile devices while they are
engaged in activities and/or while wearing related clothing and/or
equipment. For example, individuals who are skiing may want to
listen to music from their MP3 or smartphone and/or answer a phone
call while skiing. Skiers often wear gloves which make it difficult
to handle and control mobile devices and/or remote controls.
Furthermore, it is inconvenient for skiers to have to stop skiing,
pull off at least one glove, and handle and operate a mobile device
and/or remote control and select the song they wish to listen to
and/or answer the phone. The same is true for motorcyclists, dirt
bike riders, snowboarders, snowmobilers, cross-country skiers,
cyclists (e.g. road bikers, mountain bikers, commuters, etc.),
hikers, snowshoe'ers, joggers, and any other activity in which
individuals may desire to listen to music and/or answer their phone
while participating and/or engaging in the activity (including for
example, while driving a car).
[0007] In light of the foregoing discussion, there may be a need
for control devices, systems and methods which may allow
individuals to operate mobile devices and/or take phone calls while
engaged in activities and/or while wearing related clothing and/or
equipment.
SUMMARY
[0008] In one aspect a control device for communicating with a
mobile device and a headset, the control device may include: a top
surface; a bottom surface; circuitry for communicating with a
mobile device and a headset; wherein audio signals may be
communicated from the mobile device to the control device which may
communicate the audio signals to the headset; wherein the circuitry
may be adapted to enable a user to control audio signals and answer
phone calls communicated to the control device from the mobile
device; at least one button which may be designed to be manipulated
by a user wearing gloves; wherein the circuitry may facilitate
communication with the control device and the mobile device when
the at least one button is manipulated by the user; a microphone
for receiving audio input from the user; and a securement mechanism
for securing the control device to the user's person, clothing
and/or equipment.
[0009] Implementations may include one or more of the following
features. The at least one button may facilitate at least one of
the following functions: play audio signals, pause audio signals,
stop audio signals, mute audio signals, fast forward audio signals,
rewind audio signals, skip audio signals, shuffle audio signals,
select audio signals, control the speed of audio signals, control
the volume of audio signals, answer incoming calls, initiate calls,
and/or terminate calls. The at least one button may include a first
button, a second button, and a third button. Said control device
may further include a volume control mechanism for facilitating the
control of the volume of audio signals communicated to the headset.
The volume control mechanism is a volume control wheel or a volume
control slide. The at least one button may be about 1/8 of an inch
to about 5 inches wide, about 1/8 of an inch to about 7 inches
long, and about 1/32 of an inch to about 2 inches thick. The at
least one button may only be manipulated when about 0.10 of a
Newton to about 10 Newtons of force is exerted on the at least one
button. The circuitry may automatically pause, stop and/or mute
signals communicated from the mobile device to the control device
upon the arrival of an incoming call to the mobile device. The
circuitry may automatically resume playing signals communicated
from the mobile device to the control device upon the termination
of an incoming call to the mobile device. The circuitry may include
a first signal path, a second signal path, and a third signal path;
the first signal path may facilitate the flow of signals from the
mobile device ultimately to either a right or left speaker of the
headset; the second signal path may facilitate the flow of signals
from the mobile device ultimately to either a right or left speaker
of the headset; and the third signal path may facilitate the flow
of signals from the control device ultimately to the mobile device.
The circuitry may include a volume control system that, in
conjunction with the volume control mechanism, may facilitate the
control of the volume of audio signals communicated to the headset.
The circuitry may include a first push button, a second push
button, a third push button, a microphone system, a volume control
system, and a volume control mechanism. The first push button may
facilitate the operation of the first button; the second push
button may facilitate the operation of the second button; the third
push button may facilitate the operation of the third button; the
microphone system may facilitate the operation of the microphone;
and the volume control system and the volume control mechanism may
facilitate the control of the volume of audio signals communicated
to the headset. The circuitry may include a switch which when
actuated inactivates the microphone. The circuitry may include at
least one microprocessor system and at least one wireless
communication system. The control device may include an interface
and a volume control mechanism. The interface may be adapted to
allow the user to receive information from and input information
into the control device; the circuitry may include microprocessor
system, a display system, a wireless communication system, a power
system, a microphone system, and a volume control system; the
microprocessor system may facilitate the processing of
communication from at least one of the following: the control
device, the mobile device and/or the headset; the display system
may facilitate the operation of the interface; the wireless
communication system may facilitate wireless communication with the
control device and at least one of the following: the mobile device
and/or the headset; the power system may facilitate the management
of power of at least one of the following: the control device, the
mobile device and/or the headset; the microphone system may
facilitate the operation of the microphone; and wherein the volume
control system, in conjunction with the volume control mechanism,
may facilitate the control of the volume of audio signals
communicated to the headset. The microprocessor system may include:
a data packetization/de-packing and/or merging/splitting system; an
audio/video remote control protocol and/or encode/decode system; a
display interface system; a user control inputs system; an advanced
audio distribution profile and/or decode/encode system; a digital
output conditioning and/or volume control system; a
digital-to-analog conversion system; a digital input conditioning
system; an analog-to-digital conversion system; and a local and/or
boom microphone selector system. The control device may be
manufactured from waterproof material.
[0010] In one aspect a method for using a control device for
communicating with a mobile device and a headset, may include:
listening to audio signals communicated from the mobile device to a
control device (which may include: a top surface; a bottom surface;
circuitry for communicating with a mobile device and a headset;
wherein audio signals may be communicated from the mobile device to
the control device which may communicate the audio signals to the
headset; wherein the circuitry may be adapted to enable a user to
control audio signals and answer phone calls communicated to the
control device from the mobile device; at least one button which
may be designed to be manipulated by a user wearing gloves; wherein
the circuitry may facilitate communication with the control device
and the mobile device when the at least one button is manipulated
by the user; a microphone for receiving audio input from the user;
and a securement mechanism for securing the control device to the
user's person, clothing and/or equipment) which communicates the
audio signals to the headset while a user engages in a sport and/or
other activity; an incoming call may arrive at the mobile device;
audio signals being communicated to the user prior to the arrival
of the incoming call may be automatically stopped, paused or muted;
manipulating the at least one button on the control device while
wearing gloves or other equipment to take the incoming call;
speaking into the microphone on the control device to communicate
with the caller; and terminating the call when the caller hangs up
or when the user manipulates the at least one button on the control
device.
[0011] In another aspect a method for using a control device for
communicating with a mobile device and a headset, may include:
listening to audio signals communicated from the mobile device to a
control device (which may include: a top surface; a bottom surface;
circuitry for communicating with a mobile device and a headset;
wherein audio signals may be communicated from the mobile device to
the control device which may communicate the audio signals to the
headset; wherein the circuitry may be adapted to enable a user to
control audio signals and answer phone calls communicated to the
control device from the mobile device; at least one button which
may be designed to be manipulated by a user wearing gloves; wherein
the circuitry may facilitate communication with the control device
and the mobile device when the at least one button is manipulated
by the user; a microphone for receiving audio input from the user;
and a securement mechanism for securing the control device to the
user's person, clothing and/or equipment) which communicates the
audio signals to the headset while a user engaging in a sport
and/or other activity; and manipulating the at least one button on
the control device while wearing gloves or other equipment to
modify the audio signals being communicated from the mobile device
to the control device which communicates the audio signals to the
headset.
[0012] In another aspect a control device for communicating with a
mobile device and a headset, the control device may include: a top
surface; a bottom surface; circuitry for communicating with a
mobile device and a headset, wherein the circuitry is adapted to
enable a user to control the volume of audio signals, to stop and
play audio signals, and to answer incoming phone calls; at least
three buttons situated on the top surface designed to be actuated
by a user wearing gloves; a microphone for receiving audio input
from the user; a securement mechanism for securing the control
device to at least one of the following: the user's person,
clothing or equipment; and wherein the control device may be
operable in wet conditions.
[0013] Implementations may include one or more of the following
features. Three of the at least three buttons may be situated
substantially in line relative to each other. The at least three
buttons may include a first button, a second button, and a third
button; wherein at least one of the at least three buttons may
allow the user to control the volume of audio signals; wherein at
least one of the at least three buttons may allow the user to stop
audio signals; wherein at least one of the at least three buttons
may allow the user to play audio signals; and wherein at least one
of the at least three buttons may allow the user to answer incoming
phone calls. The control device may further include a jack for
receiving a plug. The headset may include a microphone alternate to
the microphone of the control device; and wherein the circuitry may
include a switch, which when articulated, may inactivate the
microphone on the control device and allow a user to use the
headset's microphone. The control device may be detachable from
both the mobile device and the headset. At least one of the at
least three buttons may only be actuated when about 1.7 Newton to
about 10 Newtons of force is exerted on at least one of the at
least three buttons. The circuitry may automatically pause, stop or
mute signals communicated from the mobile device to the control
device upon the arrival of an incoming phone call to the mobile
device; wherein the circuitry may automatically resume playing
signals communicated from the mobile device to the control device
upon the termination of an incoming phone call to the mobile
device. The at least three buttons may include a first button, a
second button, and a third button; wherein the first button may
allow the user to control the volume of audio signals; wherein the
second button may allow the user to control the volume of audio
signals; wherein the third button may allow the user to stop and
play audio signals and answer incoming phone calls. The circuitry
may include a first signal path, a second signal path, and a third
signal path; wherein the first signal path may facilitate the flow
of signals from the mobile device ultimately to either a right or
left speaker of the headset; wherein the second signal path may
facilitate the flow of signals from the mobile device ultimately to
a speaker alternate to that of the first signal path; and wherein
the third signal path may facilitate the flow of signals from the
control device ultimately to the mobile device. The circuitry may
include a volume control system that, in conjunction with at least
one of the at least three buttons, may facilitate the control of
the volume of audio signals. The circuitry may include a first push
button, a second push button, a third push button, and a microphone
system. The first push button may facilitate the operation of the
first button; wherein the second push button may facilitate the
operation of the second button; wherein the third push button may
facilitate the operation of the third button; and wherein the
microphone system may facilitate the operation of the microphone.
The at least three buttons may consist of exactly three buttons: a
first button, a second button and a third button. The circuitry may
include at least one microprocessor system and at least one
wireless communication system. The control device may further
include an interface and a volume control mechanism; wherein the
interface is adapted to allow the user to receive information from
and input information into the control device; wherein the
circuitry may include a microprocessor system, a display system, a
wireless communication system, a power system, a microphone system,
and a volume control system; wherein the microprocessor system may
facilitate the processing of communication from at least one of the
following: the control device, the mobile device and the headset;
wherein the display system may facilitate the operation of the
interface; wherein the wireless communication system may facilitate
wireless communication with the control device and at least one of
the following: the mobile device and the headset; wherein the power
system may facilitate the management of power of at least one of
the following: the control device, the mobile device and the
headset; wherein the microphone system may facilitate the operation
of the microphone; and wherein the volume control system, in
conjunction with the volume control mechanism, may facilitate the
control of the volume of audio signals communicated to the
headset.
[0014] The microprocessor system may include: a data
packetization/de-packing and/or merging/splitting system; an
audio/video remote control protocol and/or encode/decode system; a
display interface system; a user control inputs system; an advanced
audio distribution profile and/or decode/encode system; a digital
output conditioning and/or volume control system; a
digital-to-analog conversion system; a digital input conditioning
system; an analog-to-digital conversion system; and a local and/or
boom microphone selector system. The control device may be
manufactured to be waterproof.
[0015] In another aspect a method for using a control device for
communicating with a mobile device and a headset, may include: a
control device which may include a top surface; a bottom surface;
circuitry for communicating with a mobile device and a headset,
wherein the circuitry is adapted to enable a user to control the
volume of audio signals, to stop and play audio signals, and to
answer incoming phone calls;--at least three buttons situated on
the top surface designed to be actuated by a user wearing
gloves;--a microphone for receiving audio input from the user; a
securement mechanism for securing the control device to at least
one of the following: the user's person, clothing or equipment; and
wherein the control device is operable in wet conditions; and
wherein the method of using the control device may include:
listening to music communicated to the headset while the user
engages in a sport or other activity; automatically stopping the
music being communicated to the headset when an incoming phone call
arrives at the mobile device; actuating at least one of the at
least three buttons on the control device while wearing gloves or
other equipment to take the incoming phone call; speaking into the
microphone on the control device to communicate with the caller;
and terminating the call when the caller hangs up or when the user
actuates at least one of the at least three buttons on the control
device.
[0016] In another aspect a method for using a control device for
communicating with a mobile device and a headset, may include: a
control device which may include: a top surface; a bottom surface;
circuitry for communicating with a mobile device and a headset,
wherein the circuitry is adapted to enable a user to control the
volume of audio signals, to stop and play audio signals, and to
answer incoming phone calls; at least three buttons situated on the
top surface designed to be actuated by a user wearing gloves; a
microphone for receiving audio input from the user; a securement
mechanism for securing the control device to at least one of the
following: the user's person, clothing or equipment; and wherein
the control device is operable in wet conditions; wherein the
method of using the control device may include: listening to audio
signals communicated to the headset while a user engaging in a
sport or other activity; and actuating at least one of the at least
three buttons on the control device while wearing gloves or other
equipment to modify the audio signals being communicated to the
headset.
[0017] These general and specific aspects may be implemented by
using systems, apparatuses, devices, methods and structures or any
combination thereof. Certain implementations may provide one or
more of the following advantages. Embodiments may not achieve any
or all of the listed advantages. Further, this is not an exhaustive
list of all possible advantages of the disclosure.
[0018] The disclosure may be configured to be and/or provide users
with the following: the ability to operate while wearing gloves
and/or other clothing and/or equipment; the ability to be secured
and/or attached to an operator's sleeve; the ability reduce the
likelihood of the disclosure from fall off during use; the ability
to see the disclosure while it is clipped onto your clothing and/or
equipment; the ability to feel when a button (and/or the like) on
the disclosure has been clicked; and the ability to be water
resistant.
[0019] Other features and advantages may be apparent from the
following detailed description, the accompanying drawings, and the
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] Various embodiments of the disclosure will now be discussed
with reference to the appended drawings. It is appreciated that
these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the disclosure
and are not to be considered limiting of its scope.
[0021] FIG. 1 is a view of embodiments of various aspects of a
control device, a mobile device and a headset;
[0022] FIG. 2 is a bottom view of one embodiment of various aspects
of a control device;
[0023] FIG. 3 is a left side view of one embodiment of various
aspects of a control device;
[0024] FIG. 4 is a right side view of one embodiments of various
aspects of a control device;
[0025] FIG. 5 is rear view of one embodiment of various aspects of
a control device;
[0026] FIG. 6 is a front view of one embodiment of various aspects
of a control device;
[0027] FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of one embodiment of
various aspects of a control device;
[0028] FIG. 8 is a bottom perspective view of one embodiment of
various aspects of a control device;
[0029] FIG. 9 is a top view of one embodiment of various aspects of
a control device situated on a user's sleeve;
[0030] FIG. 10 is a top view of one embodiment of a control
device;
[0031] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of
circuitry and other components for a control device, as well as
embodiments of various devices;
[0032] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of
circuitry and other components for a control device, as well as
embodiments of various devices;
[0033] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of
circuitry and other components for a control device, as well as
embodiments of various devices;
[0034] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of
circuitry and other components for a control device, as well as
embodiments of various devices;
[0035] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of
circuitry and other components for a control device, as well as
embodiments of various devices;
[0036] FIG. 16 is an exploded schematic diagram of a microprocessor
system and other components for a control device, as well as
embodiments of various devices;
[0037] FIG. 17 is a flow diagram that depicts one embodiment of a
method for using a control device; and
[0038] FIG. 18 is a flow diagram that depicts one embodiment of
another method for using a control device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0039] The following description illustrates principles of the
disclosure which may be applied in various ways to provide
different embodiments. There may be many different forms of
embodiments of the disclosure, and as such, embodiments should not
be limited to those set forth herein and shown in the accompanying
drawings. While exemplary embodiments of the disclosure may be
shown and described herein, changes and modifications may be made
without departing from its scope and concepts. That which is set
forth herein and shown in the accompanying drawings is offered to
illustrate the principles of the disclosure and not as limitations.
Other variations of the disclosure may be included within the
principles of the disclosure.
[0040] In one or more embodiments, regardless if expressly stated
herein and/or illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the
disclosure may be configurable, adaptable and customizable to meet
the various needs of various users in various circumstances and/or
to be compatible and/or used in conjunction with various systems,
apparatuses, articles, devices, means, methods and/or
structures.
[0041] In one or more embodiments, the disclosure may be configured
in various ways, by various means and/or various methods, with
various components and/or various parts, to various dimensions
(such as but limited to shapes, lengths, widths, heights, depths,
and/or sizes) and/or with and/or from various materials, and/or any
combinations thereof. The specific parts, materials, members,
devices, systems and/or components of the disclosure may be
configured together and/or separate and/or with other materials,
members, devices, systems and/or components and/or any combinations
thereof.
[0042] The drawings herein may but do not necessarily illustrate
the disclosure to scale. The drawings herein may but do not
necessarily depict the exact positions, shapes, sizes, layouts,
designs, angles and/or other dimensions and/or configurations in
which the disclosure may be implemented. In one or more
embodiments, the components of the disclosures may be configured to
various positions, shapes, sizes, layouts, designs, angles and/or
other dimensions and/or configurations from various materials, for
various reasons.
[0043] In one or more embodiments, the disclosure may be used for
various uses and/or purposes.
[0044] FIG. 1 shows embodiments of a mobile device 10, a headset
20A and a control device 30. In one or more embodiments, control
device 30 may be used to control and/or coordinate the flow of
information, data and communication to and/or from mobile device 10
and ultimately to and/or from headset 20A. For example, in one or
more embodiments, a user may use control device 30 to select and
play music from the mobile device 10 and/or answer incoming calls
from the mobile device 10.
[0045] As shown in in FIG. 1, control device 30 may include a top
surface 32, a bottom surface 34 (not shown), and at least one
button (such as, a first button 36, a second button 38, and a third
button 40). In one or more embodiments, the functionality of at
least one button may vary. For example, in one or more embodiment,
first button 36 may be configured as the play button so that when a
user manipulates first button 36 it may facilitate the playing of
music and/or other media; second button 38 may be configured as the
stop and/or pause button so that when a user manipulates second
button 38 it may facilitate the stopping and/or pausing of music
and/or other media; and third button 40 may be configured as the
fast forward and/or rewind button so that when a user manipulates
third button 40 it may facilitate the fast forwarding and/or
rewinding of music and/or other media. In one or more embodiments,
the functionality of each button may be adapted, modified and or
changed to accommodate various circumstances and user needs. For
example, at least one button may facilitate more than one
functionality. In one or more embodiments, at least one button may
be facilitate and/or be manipulated to play music, pause music,
stop music, mute music, fast forward music, rewind music, skip a
song, shuffle music, select music, control the speed of audio
communication, control the volume of audio communication, answer
incoming calls, initiate calls, terminate calls, and/or other
functionality.
[0046] In one or more embodiments, the dimensions of at least one
button and/or other components of control device 30 may enable the
user to manipulate or otherwise operate at least one button while
wearing gloves and/or other clothing and/or equipment. For example,
in one or more embodiments, at least one button on control device
30 may be about 1/8 of an inch to about 5 inches wide, about 1/8 of
an inch to about 7 inches long, and about 1/32 of an inch to about
2 inches thick.
[0047] In one or more embodiments, control device 30 may be
designed to enable a user to manipulate control device 30 while
wearing one or more of the following: skis gloves, snow mobile
gloves, motorcycle gloves, mountain bike and other bicycle gloves
and/or other bulky gloves.
[0048] In one or more embodiments, control device 30 may be
designed to enable a user to manipulate control device 30 while
wearing one or more of the following brand name ski gloves: The
North Face, Hester, Rossignol, Black Diamond, Mountain Hardware,
Dakine, Arctertx, Outdoor Research, Burton, Marmot, Mammut,
Columbia, Gordini, etc.
[0049] In one or more embodiments, control device 30 may be
designed to enable a user to manipulate control device 30 while
wearing one or more of the following brand name snowmobile gloves:
Klim, HJC, Fly, Field Sheer, FXR, Gordini, etc.
[0050] In one or more embodiments, control device 30 may be
designed to enable a user to manipulate control device 30 while
wearing one or more of the following brand name motorcycle gloves:
Firstgear, Xelement, Icon, Harley Davidson, Alpinestar, Joe rocket,
Klim, REV IT, River Road, AGV, Cortech, Dainese, etc.
[0051] In one or more embodiments, control device 30 may be
designed to enable a user to manipulate control device 30 while
wearing one or more of the following brand name mountain bike
gloves: Specialized, Giro, Fox, Endura, ShengEn, Troy Lee Designs,
Bontrager, Sugoi, etc.
[0052] In one or more embodiments, control device 30 may be
designed to enable a user to manipulate control device 30 while
wearing one or more of the following brand name work gloves:
Mechanix Wear, Uline, Tillman, Craftsman, Full Force, Galeton,
Workwear, etc.
[0053] In one or more embodiments, control device 30 may be
designed to enable a user to manipulate control device 30 while
wearing one or more of the skis gloves disclosed in the following
patents: U.S. Pat. No. 5,443,287 A (entitled "Quick release ski
pole and strap system"), U.S. Pat. No. 4,698,851 A (entitled "Ski
glove"), U.S. Pat. No. 4,733,412 A (entitled, "Insulated ski
glove"), U.S. Pat. No. 4,757,555 A (entitled, "Ski racing glove"),
and U.S. Pat. No. 5,628,069 A (entitled, "Glove with bistable
spring element"). All of the subject matter relating to the ski
gloves in the aforementioned patents is incorporated herein by
reference. Alternatively and/or in addition, in one or more
embodiments, control device 30 may be designed to enable a user to
manipulate control device 30 while wearing one or more of the
gloves or equipment disclosed in the following patents and patent
applications: U.S. D722208 A (entitled, "Glove"), U.S. 20090000010
A1 (entitled, "High tactility glove system"), U.S. 20140215685 A1
(entitled, "Glove with palm hammock"), U.S. 20130318684 A1
(entitled, Glove"), U.S. 20140075639 A1 (entitled, "Protective
glove"), U.S. Pat. No. 3,918,096 A (entitled, "Flexible motorcycle
glove"), U.S. 20110289643 A1 (entitled, "Glove structure, in
particular for the motorcycling sector, and method for the
manufacture thereof"), U.S. Pat. No. 4,094,014 A (entitled,
"Workman's glove"), U.S. Pat. No. 4,224,692 A (entitled, "Freight
handling glove"), U.S. Pat. No. 6,715,152 B2 (entitled,
"Motorcycling glove"), and U.S. 20050034213 A1 (entitled, "Sports
glove").
[0054] In one or more embodiments, at least one button may be
configured so that at least one button cannot be manipulated unless
a user exerts a certain level of force on the button. For example,
in one or more embodiments, at least one button on control device
30 may only be fully manipulated when at least about 0.10 of a
Newton to about 10 Newtons of force is exerted on at least one
button. Such configuration may prevent at least one button from
inadvertently being actuated. Such configuration may enable the
user to receive tactile feedback and allow the user to know when at
least one button has been actuated. In one or more embodiments, at
least one button may be configured to click or produce a feel when
at least one button is actuated for the purpose of preventing
inadvertent manipulation, providing tactile feedback and/or
allowing the user to know when at least one button has been
actuated.
[0055] Although the control device 30 shown in FIG. 1 includes
three buttons (that is, first button 36, second button 38 and third
button 40) of particular shapes and sizes, in one or more
embodiments, the numbers, shapes and sizes of the buttons may vary.
For example, in one or more embodiments, first button 36 may be
configured into the shape of a square, second button 38 may be
configured into the shape of an oval, and third button 40 may be
configured into the shape of a triangle.
[0056] In one or more embodiments, control device 30 may include a
microphone (such as, microphone 42) for receiving audio input from
a user and/or transmitting audio to a user. In one or more
embodiments, if an incoming call arrives at the mobile device 10
while a user is listening to music, the mobile device 10 and/or the
control device 30 may automatically mute, pause or stop the music
and notify the user of the incoming call. If the user desires to
answer the incoming call, in one or more embodiments, the user may
press at least one button (such as first button 36, second button
38 and/or third button 40) on the control device 30 and speak into
the microphone (such as microphone 42) on the control device 30 and
communicate with the person on the other end of the call, all while
optionally continuing to engage in a sporting or other activity
and/or optionally while wearing gloves and/or other clothing or
equipment. For example, a person may be skiing down the slopes
listening to music when an incoming call is received. The control
device 30 and/or mobile device 10 may automatically pause or mute
the music and allow the user to answer the call. If the user
decides to take the call the user may manipulate at least one
button (or provide a verbal command or engage some other means) on
control device 30. The user may speak into the microphone 42 and
have a conversation with the person on the other end of the call
while continuing to ski. When the conversation is over, in one or
more embodiments, the control device 30 and/or mobile device 10 may
terminate the call when the person on the other end hangs up and/or
upon the user's manipulation of at least one button (and/or via a
voice command or manipulation of some other means), whereupon the
control device 30 and/or mobile device 10 may automatically play
and/or resume the music, all while the user optionally continues to
ski.
[0057] In one or more embodiments, the disclosure may be designed
to incorporate the technology and/or aspects and/or modifications
of the technology disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,650,145 B2 (entitled
"Telephone set, communication adaptor, home appliance control
method, and program recording medium") for enabling the control
device 30 to facilitate the aspects of the above described
functionality. All of the subject matter in the aforementioned
patent is incorporated herein by reference.
[0058] Although not shown in FIG. 1, in one or more embodiments,
control device 30 may be configured with alternative and/or
additional microphones. Although not shown in FIG. 1, in one or
more embodiments, control device 30 may be configured without a
microphone.
[0059] In one or more embodiments, control device 30 may include a
volume control mechanism for controlling the volume of audio
communication (such as, a volume control wheel 44). Although FIG. 1
and elsewhere, shows volume control mechanism as a wheel, in one or
more embodiments, the volume control mechanism may be in various
forms, such as a knob, a dial, a slide, a button, a switch, a pad,
a wheel, etc. In one or more embodiments, the size of the volume
control mechanism (such as, volume control wheel 44) may enable the
user to manipulate or otherwise operate the volume control
mechanism while wearing gloves and/or other clothing and/or
equipment. Although not shown in FIG. 1, in one or more
embodiments, control device 30 may be configured without a volume
control mechanism.
[0060] In one or more embodiment, control device 30 may communicate
with mobile device 10, headset 20A and/or other devices by various
means (including wirelessly, non-wirelessly and/or a combination of
both wirelessly and non-wirelessly), whether developed later or
known at the time of filing. For example, in one or more
embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, control device 30 may communicate
with mobile device 10 via a plug 46A, a cord 46B, and a plug 46C
and/or to headset 20A via plug 48A and a cord 48B.
[0061] In one or more embodiment, control device 30 may be between
about 1/4 of an inch to about 6 inches wide (such as approximately
1 inch wide), between about 1/4 of an inch to about 9 inches long
(such as approximately 4 inches long), and between about 1/16 of an
inch to about 3 inches thick (such as approximately 1/4 of an inch
thick) which thickness may not include the thickness of a
securement mechanism (such as clip 50). In one or more embodiments,
the width, length and/or thickness of control device 30 may
adapted, modified and/or changed to accommodate various
circumstances and user needs. In one or more embodiments, control
device 30 may be made from one or materials, such as, for example,
metals, non-metals, metalloids, woods and natural products,
ceramics, polymers and plastics, alloys and/or the like and/or
other materials. In one or more embodiments, the materials may
possess various qualities making it operable in various conditions,
such as, for example, being water proof and/or water resistant
(which may allow control device 30 to function in wet conditions),
shatter proof or durable (which may allow control device 30 to
function in conditions where it may be subject to impact), heat
resistant (which may allow control device 30 to function in hot
conditions), etc. In one or more embodiments, control device 30 may
be configured in such a way that it may vibrate (such as, for
example, when calls are received and/or when control device 30 is
operated). In one or more embodiments, control device 30 may be
configured in such a way that it may generate sound (such as, for
example, when calls are received and/or when control device 30 is
operated).
[0062] Although mobile device 10 is shown in FIG. 1 as an iPhone,
in one or more embodiments, mobile device 10 could be various types
of mobile devices, including, for example, various tablets,
laptops, smartphones and other cellphones, MP3 players, portable
DVD and/or CD players, Personal Digital Assistants (PDA's),
cassette tape players, and/or other types of devices which may
transmit audio communications, whether developed later or known at
the time of filing. In one or more embodiments, mobile device 10
may be capable of storing, streaming, playing, and/or displaying
media of any kind, including, for example, images, audio, and/or
video, whether digital, non-digital and/or otherwise.
[0063] Although headset 20A is shown in FIG. 1 as headphones, in
one or more embodiments, various types of devices which allow users
to listen to audio (whether capable of wireless communication or
otherwise), including, for example, earbuds (binaural, monaural or
otherwise), ear pads and/or various other devices (which may
include various features, such as a headband, a microphone, an
earpiece, etc.) may be used instead of and/or in addition to
headphones.
[0064] Although plugs (that is, plugs 46A, 46C and 48A) are shown
in FIG. 1 as headset and mobile device connectors, in one or more
embodiments, other connectors may be used to connect various
devices to control device 30, such as, for example, RJ plugs (such
as, RJ9, RJ10, RJ22, RJ11, and RJ45 plugs), USB (including,
USB-mini) connectors, 3.5 mm plugs, 2.5 mm plugs, 6.35 mm plugs,
6.4 mm plugs, 1/4 inch plugs, RCA plugs, Two Prong connectors,
Nokia N3 adapters, Polaris connectors, QD (quick disconnect)
connectors, and/or the like and/or other connectors. In one or more
embodiments, control device 30 may modified to include jacks which
receive various connectors.
[0065] FIG. 2 shows a bottom view of the embodiment of control
device 30 illustrated in FIG. 1 including bottom surface 34 and a
securement mechanism (such as a clip 50) for securing the control
device to a user's person, clothing and/or equipment, as well as
volume control wheel 44, plug 46A and plug 48A. Although FIG. 2 and
elsewhere show the securement mechanism as clip 50, other variation
may be implemented, such as Velcro, straps, chains, belts, buckles,
snaps, buttons, loops, zippers, pins, holes, knots, fasteners,
ropes, clamps, clips, and any other materials and/or adhesives
desirable.
[0066] FIGS. 3 and 4 show alternative side views of the embodiment
of control device 30 illustrated in FIG. 1 including top surface
32, bottom surface 34, first button 36, second button 38, third
button 40, microphone 42, and clip 50. In one or more embodiments,
clip 50 may be designed to help secure control device 30 to the
user's clothing and/or equipment and/or to reduce the likelihood
that control device may fall off said clothing and/or equipment
once it is secured. In one or more embodiments, clip 50 may include
teeth-like configurations 52, a tip 54 and a base 56. In one or
more embodiments, clip 50 may be designed to resiliently bend so
that a user may pull tip 54 away from control device 30 (thereby
creating an opening through which the user's clothing and/or
equipment may be placed) and then release tip 54 to allow clip 50
to press down on the user's clothing and/or equipment towards
bottom surface 34 (thereby securing control device 30 to the user's
clothing and/or equipment). In one or more embodiments, the user
may not have to pull up on tip 54 but may simply slide his or her
clothing and/or equipment in between clip 50 and bottom surface 34.
In either case, in one or more embodiments, the amount of force in
which clip 50 presses the user's clothing and/or equipment toward
control device 30, may be sufficient to prevent control device 30
from falling off while the user engages in a sport or other
activity. In one or more embodiments, the disclosure may be
configured in such a way so as to allow a user to see the
disclosure while it is clipped onto their clothing and/or equipment
(see FIG. 9). FIG. 3 also shows one embodiment of control device 30
including plug 46A. FIG. 4 also shows one embodiment of control
device 30 including plug 48A and volume control wheel 44. As stated
above and although not shown in FIG. 3 or 4, control device 30 may
be configured with an alternative means for securing it to a user's
clothing and/or equipment and/or for preventing it from falling off
while the user engages in a sport or other activity. For example,
in one or more embodiments, control device 30 may be configured
with a strap which may wrap around the user's appendage, clothing
and/or equipment.
[0067] FIG. 5 shows a back view of the embodiment of control device
30 illustrated in FIG. 1 including top surface 32, bottom surface
34, microphone 42, volume control wheel 44, plug 46A, plug 48A,
clip 50, and base 56.
[0068] FIG. 6 shows a front view of the embodiment of control
device 30 illustrated in FIG. 1 including top surface 32, bottom
surface 34, first button 36, volume control wheel 44 and tip
54.
[0069] FIG. 7 shows a top perspective view of the embodiment of
control device 30 illustrated in FIG. 1 including top surface 32,
first button 36, second button 38, third button 40, microphone 42,
volume control wheel 44, plug 46A, and plug 48A.
[0070] FIG. 8 shows a bottom perspective view of the embodiment of
control device 30 illustrated in FIG. 1 including bottom surface
34, volume control wheel 44, plug 46A, plug 48A, clip 50, tip 54,
and base 56.
[0071] FIG. 9 shows one embodiment of control device 30 secured to
a user's sleeve 60. Although not necessarily illustrated in FIG. 9,
in one or more embodiments, control device 30 may be configured to
be secured to bulky coat sleeves and to be operated by a user
wearing bulky clothing and/or equipment (such as, for example, ski
gloves). In one or more embodiments, plug 46A may be configured to
and/or with cord 46B and plug 48A may be configured to and/or with
cord 48B. In one or more embodiments, plug 46A and plug 48A may
attached at one end of control device 30 as illustrated in FIGS. 1
through 9. However, in one or more embodiments, control device 30
may be configured so that plug 46A and plug 48A are on the other
side of control device 30 or on opposite sides of control device 30
or control device may not be configured to receive plugs (such as
plug 46A and plug 48A). In one or more embodiment, plug 46A and
plug 48A may run up user's sleeve (underneath or on top of said
sleeve), wherein one plug may be configured to headset 20A and the
other plug may be configured to mobile device 10. In one or more
embodiments, such configuration may help prevent control device 30
from falling off while being worn by the user because the length of
cord 46B and/or cord 48B may limit the distance control device 30
may move. Although not shown in FIG. 9, control device 30 may be
configured to communicate wirelessly with mobile device 10 and/or
control device 30 and/or other devices.
[0072] FIG. 10 shows one embodiment of control device 30 which may
include top surface 32, bottom surface 34 (although not shown in
FIG. 10), first button 36, second button 38, third button 40,
microphone 42, volume control wheel 44, and an interface 45. In one
or more embodiments, interface 45 and/or its associated hardware
and/or software may have the capacity to display various things to
users (such as, for example, text, lights, shapes, symbols, videos,
etc.) and/or to receive user input from users and/or other sources
via various means, such as, for example, via graphical user
interfaces ("GUI") which may include, for example, digital buttons
(for example, play, pause, stop, reverse, fast forward, etc.), text
fields, etc. In one or more embodiments, interface 45 and/or its
associated hardware and/or software may include and/or have the
capacity to utilize none, one or more than one of the following
technologies (and/or technologies other than as listed as follows):
liquid crystal display ("LCD"), Organic Light Emitting Diode
display ("OLED"), Active-Matrix Organic Light-Emitting Diode
display ("AMOLED"), Retina Display, Gorilla Glass, E-ink, and/or
touch screens and/or like or other means for displaying
information, data, and/or communication. In one or more
embodiments, various information, data and/or communication may be
displayed on the interface 45, such as, for example, .asf, .wma,
.wmv, .wm, .asx, .wax, .wvx, .wmx, .wpl, .dvr-ms, .wmd, .avi, .mpg,
.mpeg, .m1v, .mp2, .mp3, .mpa, .mpe, .m3u, .mid, .midi, .rmi, .aif,
.aifc, .aiff, .au, .snd, .wav, .cda, .ivf, .wmz, .wms, .mov, .m4v,
.mp4v, .3g2, .3gp2, .3gp, .3gpp, .m4a, .aac, .adt, .adt, and/or
.m2ts files and/or other files, and/or information, data and/or
communication related to such files.
[0073] In one or more embodiments, other components of control
device 30 may work in conjunctions with the interface 45, such as,
for example, microphone 42 and its associated hardware and/or
software may play the audio associated with the information, data
and/or communication the interface 45 communicates to the user. In
one or more embodiments, interface 45 and/or its associated
hardware and/or software may include and/or have the capacity to
utilize abilities, systems, devices, means, functionality, and/or
features not expressly and/or impliedly described herein and/or
illustrated in the drawings to this application but which may be
obvious to one skilled in the art, whether developed later or known
at the time of filing.
[0074] In one or more embodiments, control device 30 may include
circuitry (such as circuitry 80) for facilitating communication
with control device 30 and mobile device 10 and control device 30
and various headsets and/or other devices. FIGS. 11, 12 and 13
illustrate schematic diagrams of various embodiments of circuitry
80 and other components of control device 30, as well as
embodiments of various devices. Although FIGS. 11, 12 and 13 may
show circuitry 80 in particular configurations, in one or more
embodiments, alternative and/or additional configurations of
circuitry 80 may be implemented.
[0075] In one or more embodiments, circuitry 80 may include a
signal path 82, a signal path 84, a signal path 86, and/or a signal
path 88. In one or more embodiments, signal path 82 may be
configured to at least facilitate audio signals to ultimately flow
from mobile device 10 and/or other devices to either a right or
left speaker of various devices; signal path 84 may be configured
to at least facilitate audio signals to ultimately flow from mobile
device 10 and/or other devices to either a right or left speaker of
various devices; signal path 86 may be configured to at least
facilitate signals to flow from a microphone 42 to mobile device 10
and/or other devices and/or component of control device 30; and
signal path 88 may be configured to at least facilitate grounding
of various circuitry 80 components and/or other devices. In one or
more embodiments, signal path 82, signal path 84, signal path 86,
and/or signal path 88 may converge, be near each other, and/or be
bundled together via cord 46B which may be configured to a plug 46D
which may be inserted into mobile device 10. Alternatively and/or
in addition, in one or more embodiments, circuitry 80 may be
configured with a jack and/or port so that it may receive plug 46A
which may be configured to cord 46B which may be configured to plug
46C which may be inserted into mobile device 10.
[0076] In one or more embodiments, circuitry 80 may include a means
for controlling the volume of audio signals. In one or more
embodiments, said means for controlling the volume of audio signals
may include a volume control system 94 and its associated hardware
and/or software which may be associated with and/or facilitated the
operation of volume control wheel 44.
[0077] In one or more embodiments, circuitry 80 may include means
for converting mechanical actuations into electrical signals and/or
altering electrical circuitry based on mechanical actuations. In
one or more embodiments, circuitry 80 may include circuitry
associated with and/or to facilitate the operation of at least one
button and/or a microphone component(s) which may be included in
control device 30. For example, circuitry 80 may include a first
push button 102 (also labelled as PB.sub.1), a second push button
104 (also labelled as PB.sub.2) and a third push button 108 (also
labelled as PB.sub.3). As shown in FIGS. 11, 12 and 13, first push
button 102 (also labelled as PB.sub.1) may be associated with
and/or facilitate the operation of first button 36; second push
button 104 (also labelled as PB.sub.2) and first resister 106 (also
labelled as R.sub.1) may be associated with and/or facilitate the
operation of second button 38; third push button 108 (also labelled
as PB.sub.3) and second resister 110 (also labelled as R.sub.2) may
be associated with and/or facilitate the operation of third button
40; and so on; and microphone system 116 (also labelled as M.sub.1)
may be associated with and/or facilitate the operation of
microphone 42.
[0078] In one or more embodiments, theoretically a limitless number
of push buttons and resisters may be included in control device 30,
which notion in FIGS. 11, 12 and 13 is represented as "n+1" push
buttons 112 (also labelled as PB.sub.n+1) and "n" resisters 114
(also labelled as R.sub.n ) where "n" may equal the total number of
resisters which may be included in control device 30. Although 106,
110, and 114 are associated with and illustrated as resisters in
FIGS. 11, 12 and 13, in one or more embodiments, 106, 110, and 114
may be various devices (such as, for example, transistors, diodes,
integrated circuits, etc.) which may perform the function of a
resister and/or other functions. In one or more embodiments,
resisters and/or various devices may control the voltage across
signal path 86 and/or signal path 88 as a results of their
associated push buttons being actuated and/or other means. In one
or more embodiments, the voltage between signal path 86 and signal
path 88 may be set at different and/or the same voltage levels as
may be determined and/or effect by their respective push buttons
and/or other means. For example, in one or more embodiments, first
push button 102 may set the voltage between signal path 86 and
signal path 88 to zero and second push button 104 may set the
voltage level between signal path 86 and signal path 88 to a
different level as compared to the voltage level associated with
first push button 102.
[0079] In one or more embodiments, the components of circuitry 80
may have an electrical connection(s) or electrical path(s) to
signal path 88 and/or be grounded by various means whether
reflected in FIGS. 11, 12 and 13 or not. For example, in one or
more embodiments, first push button 102, second push button 104,
first resister 106, third push button 108, second resister 110,
"n+1" push buttons 112, "n" resisters 114, microphone system 116,
and/or other components may be configured to signal path 88 and/or
grounded by various means.
[0080] It should be noted that although the embodiments illustrated
in FIGS. 11, 12 and 13 show certain jacks and/or signal paths
configured on the opposite ends of control device 30, such
configuration, in one or more embodiments, may be modified in
various ways to various designs, including, for example, all and/or
some jacks and/or signal paths may be configured on the same or
similar end of control device 30, such as, for example, illustrated
in FIGS. 1 through 10, and/or other configurations. In one or more
embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 11, 12 and 13, circuitry 80 may be
configured to include at least one jack configured to receive at
least one plug from various devices, such as, for example, a
headset and/or earbuds. As shown in FIGS. 11, 12 and 13, in one or
more embodiments, the circuitry associated with the at least one
jack may be configured to allow signal path 82 and/or signal path
84 to come into contact with the at least one plug configured to
the device.
[0081] Although FIGS. 11, 12 and 13 may show signal flows and/or
signal paths in a particular configuration, in one or more
embodiments, alternative and/or additional configurations may be
implemented. In one or more embodiments, other modifications may be
made to the embodiment(s) illustrated in FIGS. 11, 12 and 13 which
may include and/or have the capacity to utilize abilities, systems,
devices, means, functionality, and/or features not expressly and/or
impliedly described herein and/or illustrated in the drawings to
this application but which may be obvious to one skilled in the
art, whether developed later or known at the time of filing.
[0082] FIG. 11 shows one embodiment of circuitry 80 including
signal path 82 and signal path 84 which may be configured to at
least facilitate audio signals to ultimately flow from mobile
device 10 and/or other devices to right and/or left speakers of
headset 20A, headset 20C, and/or other devices (such as earbuds
20B); signal path 86 which may be configured to at least facilitate
signals to flow from microphone 42 to mobile device 10 and/or other
devices and/or component of control device 30; and signal path 88
which may be configured to at least facilitate grounding of various
circuitry 80 components and/or other devices. FIG. 11 shows one
embodiment of circuitry 80 which may include a jack 100B (also
labelled as J.sub.2). Jack 100B may be configured to receive plug
48A and/or plug 48E from, for example, headset 20A and/or headset
20C, respectively. Although not shown in FIG. 11, jack 100B and its
related circuitry may be configured to receive and facilitate the
operation of various different types of earbuds and headsets. In
one or more embodiments, the circuitry associated with jack 100B
may be configured so as to allow signal path 82 and/or signal path
84 to come into contact with plug 48A and/or plug 48E which may be
respectively configured to headset 20A and/or headset 20C via cord
48B and/or cord 48F, respectively.
[0083] As shown in FIG. 11, circuitry 80 may include a switch 120
(also labelled as SW.sub.1). Switch 120 shown in FIG. 11 is in its
non-actuated state. In one or more embodiments, the circuitry
associated with jack 100B may be configured so as to allow switch
120 to be actuated and/or operated when plug 48A and/or other
devices are inserted into jack 100B. In one or more embodiments,
when switch 120 is actuated and/or operated, it may inactivate
microphone system 116 which may allow users to use a microphone
associated with headset 20A (rather than microphone 116) if headset
20A includes a microphone. Although the microphone attached to
headset 20A is shown in FIG. 11 as a boom microphone, any
configuration of a microphone, whether developed later or known at
the time of filing, may be used.
[0084] FIG. 12 shows one embodiment circuitry 80 including signal
path 82 and signal path 84 which may be configured to at least
facilitate audio signals to ultimately flow from mobile device 10
and/or other devices to either a right or left speaker of earbuds
20B and/or other devices (such as headset 20C); signal path 86
which may be configured to at least facilitate signals to flow from
microphone 42 to mobile device 10 and/or other devices and/or
component of control device 30; and signal path 88 which may be
configured to at least facilitate grounding of various circuitry 80
components and/or other devices. FIG. 12 shows one embodiment
circuitry 80 which may include a jack 100A (also labelled as
J.sub.1). In one or more embodiments, jack 100A may be configured
to receive plug 48C from, for example, earbuds 20B and/or other
devices. Although not shown in FIG. 12, jack 100A and its related
circuitry may be configured to receive and facilitate the operation
of various different types of earbuds and headsets. In one or more
embodiments, the circuitry associated with jack 100A may be
configured so as to allow signal path 82 and/or signal path 84 to
come into contact with plug 48C which may be configured to earbuds
20B via cord 48D.
[0085] FIG. 13 shows one embodiment of circuitry 80 including
signal path 82 and signal path 84 which may be configured to at
least facilitate audio signals to ultimately flow from mobile
device 10 and/or other devices to either a right or left speaker of
earbuds 20B and/or other devices (such as headset 20A); signal path
86 which may be configured to at least facilitate signals to flow
from microphone 42 to mobile device 10 and/or other devices and/or
component of control device 30; and signal path 88 which may be
configured to at least facilitate grounding of various circuitry 80
components and/or other devices. FIG. 13 shows one embodiment of
circuitry 80 which may including two jacks--jack 100A (configured
similar to jack 100A shown and described in relation to FIG. 12)
and jack 100B (configured similar to jack 100B shown and described
in relation to FIG. 11). In one or more embodiments, jack 100B may
be configured to receive plug 48A from, for example, headset 20A
and jack 100A may be configured to receive plug 48C from, for
example, earbuds 20B. Although not shown in FIG. 13, jack 100A and
jack 100B and their related circuitry may be configured to receive
and facilitate the operation of both, either and/or various
different types of earbuds and headsets. The embodiment of
circuitry 80 illustrated in FIG. 13 shows certain circuitry
associated with jack 100B which may be configured so as to allow
signal path 82 and/or signal path 84 to come into contact with plug
48A which may be configured to headset 20A via cord 48B, and
certain circuitry associated with jack 100A which may be configured
so as to allow signal path 82 and/or signal path 84 to come into
contact with plug 48C which may be configured to earbuds 20B via
cord 48D. The embodiment of circuitry 80 as illustrated in FIG. 13
may include a switch 120 (also labelled as SW.sub.1). Like the
embodiment shown in FIG. 11, switch 120 shown in FIG. 13 is in its
non-actuated state. In one or more embodiments, the circuitry
associated with jack 100B may be configured so as to allow switch
120 to be actuated and/or operated when plug 48A is inserted into
jack 100B. In one or more embodiments, when switch 120 is actuated
and/or operated, it may inactivate microphone system 116 which may
allow users to use a microphone configured to headset 20A (rather
than microphone 116) if headset 20A includes a microphone. Although
the microphone attached to headset 20A is shown in FIG. 13 as a
boom microphone, any configuration of a microphone, whether
developed later or known at the time of filing, may be used.
[0086] FIGS. 14, 15 and 16 illustrate schematic diagrams of various
embodiments of circuitry 80 and other components of control device
30 which may include, among other things, at least one
microprocessor and/or at least one wireless communication system.
Although FIGS. 14, 15 and 16 may show circuitry 80 in particular
configurations, in one or more embodiments, alternative and/or
additional configurations of circuitry 80 may be implemented. FIGS.
14, 15 and 16 also illustrate embodiments of various devices. In
one or more embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. 14, 15 and 16,
circuitry 80 may include a microprocessor system 130, a display
system 152, a wireless communication system 160, and a power system
170.
[0087] In one or more embodiments, microprocessor system 130 and
its hardware and/or software may be configured to perform various
conventional and/or non-conventional operations, such as, for
example: (1) receiving and/or processing (including computing)
communication, instructions, signals, streams, data, information,
input, etc. from various sources, including, for example,
components of control device 30, mobile device 10, headset 20A,
headset 20C, headset 20D, earbuds 20B, earbuds 20E, and/or other
devices and systems and (2) outputting, transferring, routing,
and/or signaling communication, instructions, signals, streams,
data, information, input, etc. to various destinations, including,
for example, components of control device 30, mobile device 10,
headset 20A, headset 20C, headset 20D, earbuds 20B, earbuds 20E,
and/or other devices and systems. In one or more embodiments,
microprocessor system 130 may be configured so as to make the
disclosure customizable and/or adaptable to meet various needs of
various users in various circumstances, to make the disclosure
operative, and/or to make the disclosure compatible with various
systems and/or devices, whether such configurations are developed
later or known at the time of filing. In one or more embodiments,
microprocessor system 130 may include circuitry which may process
digital signals and/or it may include an ASIC integrated
circuit(s), ALUs, registers, control units, buses, and/or
microprocessor(s) (also known as microcontroller), memory systems
(such as, for example, primary memory (e.g. RAM, etc.), secondary
memory (e.g. hard drives, CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, etc.), volatile (e.g.
flash memory, etc.), non-volatile (e.g. cache memory, etc.), and/or
any other device and/or means for storing data, and/or combination
thereof), and/or other devices, systems, functionalities, features
and/or components, whether developed later or known at the time of
filing. In one or more embodiments, although FIGS. 14, 15 and 16
illustrate circuitry 80 including one microprocessor system 130,
some or all of the functionality associated with microprocessor
system 130, as stated, implied, and/or obvious to one skilled in
the art, may be implemented by other devices (such as, for example,
resisters, transistors, diodes, integrated circuits, etc.) and/or
more than one microprocessors. In one or more embodiments,
microprocessor system 130 may include and/or have the capacity to
utilize abilities, systems, devices, means, functionality, and/or
features not expressly and/or impliedly described herein and/or
illustrated in the drawings to this application but which may be
obvious to one skilled in the art, whether developed later or known
at the time of filing.
[0088] In one or more embodiments, display system 152 and its
associated hardware and/or software may be associated with and/or
facilitate the operation of the interface 45 (see FIG. 10). In one
or more embodiments, display system 152 may include and/or have the
capacity to utilize abilities, systems, devices, means,
functionality, and/or features not expressly and/or impliedly
described herein and/or illustrated in the drawings to this
application but which may be obvious to one skilled in the art,
whether developed later or known at the time of filing.
[0089] In one or more embodiments, wireless communication system
160 and its associated hardware and/or software may be configured
to include various technologies which transfers information between
two or more points by wireless means, such as, for example, radio,
electromagnetic, light, magnetic, electricity, sound, etc., and
which may incorporate communication standards, such as, for
example, Bluetooth, Zigbee, NFC, IEEE, DECT, DECT 6.0 standards,
etc. and/or combinations or variants thereof, and/or other
technologies, whether developed later or known at the time of
filing. FIGS. 14, 15 and 16 show embodiments of wireless
communication system 160 comprising a Bluetooth interface system
which may include hardware and/or software which may engage in
bi-directional Radio Frequency (RF) communications with various
components of control device 30, mobile device 10, headset 20D,
earbuds 20E, and/or other devices. In one or more embodiments,
wireless communication system 160 may include abilities, systems,
devices, means, functionality, and/or features not expressly and/or
impliedly described herein and/or illustrated in the drawings to
this application but which may be obvious to one skilled in the
art, whether developed later or known at the time of filing.
[0090] In one or more embodiments, power system 170 and its
associated hardware and/or software may perform various
conventional and/or non-conventional operations, such as, for
example, obtaining, storing, controlling, conditioning, managing,
and/or facilitating the transfer of power from various sources,
such as, for example, battery (such as, for example, rechargeable
and/or non-rechargeable), plug-in, solar, etc., and to various
destinations, such as, for example, control device 30 components
and/or other systems and/or devices via, for example, signal paths
173. In one or more embodiments, power system 170 may include none,
one, or more than one (such as shown in FIGS. 14, 15 and 16) of the
following systems: a power conditioning and/or management system
172, a battery 174, and/or a charger controller 176. In one or more
embodiments, power system 170 may include abilities, sources,
systems, devices, means, functionality, and/or features not
expressly and/or impliedly described herein and/or illustrated in
the drawings to this application but which may be obvious to one
skilled in the art, whether developed later or known at the time of
filing.
[0091] FIGS. 14, 15 and 16 show embodiments of circuitry 80
including embodiments of volume control system 94 and microphone
system 116. In one or more embodiments, volume control system 94
and its associated hardware and/or software may be associated with
and/or facilitate the operation of volume control wheel 44. In one
or more embodiments, the level of volume of audio signals
communicated to components of control device 30, mobile device 10,
headset 20A, headset 20C, headset 20D, earbuds 20B, earbuds 20E,
and/or other devices, may be facilitated and/or controlled by a
user via (1) volume control wheel 44 and/or (2) interface 45. In
one or more embodiments, other signals besides and/or in addition
to audio signals, may be managed, controlled and/or effected by a
user operating volume control wheel 44 and/or interface 45. In one
or more embodiments, volume control wheel 44 may interact with
circuitry 80 (such as, via volume control system 94) to alter other
types of circuitry 80 functionality (not only controlling the
volume of audio signals) and/or the functionalities of other
components of control device 30, mobile device 10, headset 20A,
headset 20C (not shown), headset 20D, earbuds 20B, earbuds 20E,
and/or other device interfacing with mobile device 10 and/or
control device 30. In one or more embodiments, interface 45 may
interact with circuitry 80 (such as via display system 152) to
alter other types of circuitry 80 functionality (not only
controlling the volume of audio signals) and/or the functionalities
of other components of control device 30, mobile device 10, headset
20A, headset 20C (not shown), headset 20D, earbuds 20B, earbuds
20E, and/or other device interfacing with mobile device 10 and/or
control device 30. In one or more embodiments, microprocessor
system 130 may manage, control, facilitate, process, receive and/or
produce communication, information, data and/or signals via volume
control system 94 and/or interface 45. In one or more embodiments,
volume control system 94 and/or interface 45 may include abilities,
systems, devices, means, functionality, and/or features not
expressly and/or impliedly described herein and/or illustrated in
the drawings to this application but which may be obvious to one
skilled in the art, whether developed later or known at the time of
filing.
[0092] In one or more embodiments, microphone system 116 and its
associated hardware and/or software may be associated with and/or
facilitate the operation of microphone 42. In one or more
embodiments, a user may communicate information into microphone 42
which may be communicated to microphone system 116 and ultimately
to microprocessor system 130. In one or more embodiments,
microprocessor system 130 may communicate information out to a user
through microphone 42 via microphone system 116, mobile device 10,
headset 20A, headset 20C (not shown), headset 20D, earbuds 20B,
earbuds 20E, and/or anything other devices interfacing with mobile
device 10 and/or control device 30. In one or more embodiments,
microprocessor system 130 may manage, control, facilitate, process,
receive and/or produce communication, information, data and/or
signals via microphone system 116, mobile device 10, headset 20A,
headset 20C (not shown), headset 20D, earbuds 20B, earbuds 20E,
and/or anything other devices interfacing with mobile device 10
and/or control device 30. In one or more embodiments, microphone
system 116 may include abilities, systems, devices, means,
functionality, and/or features not expressly and/or impliedly
described herein and/or illustrated in the drawings to this
application but which may be obvious to one skilled in the art,
whether developed later or known at the time of filing.
[0093] In one or more embodiments, circuitry 80 such may include
various signal paths. In one or more embodiments, microprocessor
system 130 may manage, control, facilitate, process, receive and/or
produce communication, information, data and/or signals via such
signal paths. In one or more embodiments, signal paths may include
various technologies, such as, for example, wires and/or other
means for communicating signals, whether developed later or known
at the time of filing, but which may be obvious to one skilled in
the art.
[0094] Although FIGS. 14, 15 and 16 may show signal flows and/or
signal paths in a particular configuration, in one or more
embodiments, alternative and/or additional configurations may be
implemented. In one or more embodiments, various signal paths
and/or other means may connect various components of microprocessor
system 130 to each other and/or to other components, devices and/or
systems.
[0095] In one or more embodiments, control device 30 may include
abilities, systems, devices, means, and/or features which may alter
electrical circuitry and/or system behavior and/or functionality
based on user input. In one or more embodiments, circuitry 80 may
include means for converting mechanical actuations into electrical
signals and/or alter electrical circuitry based on mechanical
actuations. In one or more embodiments, microprocessor system 130
may manage, control, facilitate, process, receive and/or produce
communication, information, data and/or signals to and/or from
control device's 30 abilities, systems, devices, means, and/or
features which may alter electrical circuitry and/or system
behavior and/or functionality based on user input. In one or more
embodiments, user input may be accomplished by various means, such
as, for example, mechanical means (such as, for example, knobs,
dials, slides, buttons, switches, wheels, pads, etc.), electrical
means (such as, for example, GUI nodes including text fields,
buttons, toggles, etc.), audio means (such as, for example, voice
recognition, etc.) and/or other means. In one or more embodiments,
control device's 30 abilities, systems, devices, means, and/or
features which may alter electrical circuitry and/or system
behavior and/or functionality based on user input and types of user
input may include abilities, systems, devices, means,
functionality, and/or features not expressly and/or impliedly
described herein and/or illustrated in the drawings to this
application but which may be obvious to one skilled in the art,
whether developed later or known at the time of filing.
[0096] In one or more embodiments, control device 30 may include
various means of interfacing and/or for facilitating
interoperability with various devices (such as, for example, mobile
device 10, headset 20A, headset 20C, earbuds 20B, headset 20D,
earbuds 20E, and/or other devices), whether said means and/or
accessory devices are developed later or known at the time of
filing. For example, in one or more embodiments, the means by which
control device 30 may interface and/or facilitate interoperability
with various devices may include one or more jacks of various kinds
and types (such as, for example, jack 100A, jack 100B, and/or jack
100C) which may be configured to receive and/or be associated with
one or more plugs of various kinds and types, such as, for example,
2-conductor plugs, 3-conductor plugs (such as, for example, as
illustrated in FIG. 11 in plug 48E associated with headset 20C and
as illustrated in FIG. 14 in plug 48C associated with earbuds 20B),
4-conductor jacks (such as, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 14
in plug 48A associated with headset 20A), etc., whether with or
without microphone or other features. In one or more embodiments,
the means by which control device 30 may interface and/or
facilitate interoperability with various accessory devices may
include, wireless connectivity (such as, for example, mobile device
10, headset 20D, earbuds 20E, wireless communication system 160,
and/or other devices). Whether via jacks, wirelessly and/or other
means, in one or more embodiments, the means by which control
device 30 may interface and/or interoperate with various accessory
devices, may include stereophonic audio signals, visual and/or
audio information signals, the reception of audio signals via
accessory mounted microphone(s), the reception of additional
control signals from the accessory, radio frequency communications,
and various other ways.
[0097] In one or more embodiments of circuitry 80, various means
may be employed between and/or among systems, circuitry, signal
paths, optional signal conditioning or amplification devices,
microprocessors, microphones, jacks, and other elements and/or
components, such that the type or style or nature or condition or
components of an accessory device, may be ascertained and/or
detected; and once ascertained and/or detected, circuitry 80 may be
configured to alter and/or modify its functionality (such as for
example, enabling or disabling the use of microphone 42 and/or
alter displays on the interface 42) and/or circuitry 80 may be
configured to alter and/or modify the behavior of accessory
devices, such as, for example, mobile device 10, headset 20A,
headset 20C, earbuds 20B, etc.
[0098] In one or more embodiments, control device 30 may be
configured to receive and process wireless communication from
various sources by various means. For example, in one or more
embodiments, circuitry 80 may communicate wirelessly to mobile
device 10 and other devices (such as, for example, wireless headset
20D, wireless earbuds 20E and/or other devices) via wireless
communication system 160. In addition and/or alternatively, in one
or more embodiments, circuitry 80 may communicate wirelessly to
mobile device 10 and mobile device 10 may communicate wirelessly to
other devices (such as, wireless headset 20D, wireless earbuds 20E,
and/or other devices). In one or more embodiments, circuitry 80 may
be configured to wirelessly communicate with various types of
mobile devices, headsets and earbuds. In one or more embodiments,
circuitry 80 may be able to detect whether devices (such as headset
20D, or some other headset or earbuds) have a microphone and then
inactivate microphone 116. In one or more embodiments, once control
device 30 receives and processes wireless communication from
various sources by various means it may ultimately provide it to
users to hear, modify, control, visualize, and/or for other
purposes and/or uses. For example, once control device's 30
wireless communication system 160 receives and processes wireless
communication from mobile device 10 and/or other devises (such as,
headset 20D and/or earbuds 20E), the wireless communication system
160 may then communicate the processed wireless communication to
its microprocessor system 130. In one or more embodiments,
microprocessor system 130 may manage, control, facilitate, process,
receive and/or produce communication, information, data and/or
signals to and/or from various components of control device 30.
[0099] In one or more embodiments, the components of circuitry 80
may have an electrical connection(s) or electrical path(s)
grounded.
[0100] In one or more embodiments, other modifications may be made
to the embodiment(s) illustrated in FIGS. 14, 15 and 16 which may
include and/or have the capacity to utilize abilities, systems,
devices, means, functionality, and/or features not expressly and/or
impliedly described herein and/or illustrated in the drawings to
this application but which may be obvious to one skilled in the
art, whether developed later or known at the time of filing.
[0101] FIG. 14 shows one embodiment of control device 30 which may
be configured to communicate with mobile device 10, headset 20D,
earbuds 20E, headset 20A, earbuds 20B and/or other devices via
wireless communication and/or via at least one jack-plug
combination.
[0102] FIG. 14 shows one embodiment of circuitry 80 which may
include various signal paths, such as, for example, signal path 82,
signal path 84, signal path 86, signal path 88, signal path 90,
signal path 153, signal path 161, and/or signal paths 173. In one
or more embodiments, microprocessor system 130 may manage, control,
facilitate, process, receive and/or produce communication,
information, data and/or signals via signal path 82, signal path
84, signal path 86, signal path 88, signal path 90, signal path
153, signal path 161, signal paths 173 and/or other signal paths.
Although FIG. 14 shows signal flow only in one direction in
relations to signal path 82, signal path 84, signal path 86, signal
path 90, and signal paths 173, signal path 82 may be configured to
facilitate the communication of audio signals from and/or to
microprocessor system 130 to and/or from one or more speakers
and/or microphones in headset 20A, earbuds 20B, and/or other
devices; signal path 84 may be configured to facilitate the
communication of audio signals from and/or to microprocessor system
130 to and/or from one or more speakers and/or microphones in
headset 20A, earbuds 20B, and/or other devices; signal path 86 may
be configured to facilitate the communication of signals from
and/or to microprocessor system 130 to and/or from microphone 42
via microphone system 116; signal path 90 may be configured to
facilitate the communication of signals from and/or to
microprocessor system 130 to and/or from headset 20A, earbuds 20B,
and/or other devices; and/or signal paths 173 may be configured to
facilitate the communication of signals from and/or to power system
170 to and/or from components of control device 30, mobile device
10, headset 20A, earbuds 20B and/or other devices. As shown in FIG.
14, signal path 153 may be configured to facilitate the
communication of signals from and/or to microprocessor system 130
to and/or from interface 45 via display system 152; and signal path
161 may be configured to facilitate the communication of signals
from and/or to microprocessor system 130 to and/or from wireless
communication system 160. Although FIG. 16 shows signal flows and
signal paths in a particular configuration, in one or more
embodiments, alternative and/or additional configurations may be
implemented. In one or more embodiments, various signal paths
and/or other means may connect various components of microprocessor
system 130 to each other and/or to other components, devices and/or
systems. In one or more embodiments, signal paths in circuitry 80
may be affected by signal conditioning and/or amplification
devices. For example, as shown in FIG. 14, signal path 82 may be
effected by signal conditioning and/or amplification device 92A,
signal path 84 may be effected by signal conditioning and/or
amplification device 92B, signal path 86 may be effected by signal
conditioning and/or amplification device 92D, and signal path 90
may be effected by signal conditioning and/or amplification device
92C. Although shown in FIG. 14 only in relation to components
associated with jack 100C, signal path 88 may be configured to
facilitate a ground path for one or more components of control
device 30.
[0103] FIG. 14 shows one embodiment of circuitry 80 which may
include hardware and/or software associated with and/or to
facilitate the operation of mechanical means, electrical means,
audio means, and/or other means, such as, for example, first push
button 102 (also labelled as PB.sub.1 in FIG. 14) and related
hardware and/or software may be associated with and/or facilitate
the operation of first button 36; second push button 104 (also
labelled as PB.sub.2 in FIG. 14) and related hardware and/or
software may be associated with and/or facilitate the operation of
second button 38; third push button 108 (also labelled as PB.sub.3
in FIG. 14) and related hardware and/or software may be associated
with and/or facilitate the operation of third button 40; volume
control system 94 and related hardware and/or software may be
associated with and/or facilitate the operation of volume control
wheel 44; microphone system 116 (also labelled as M.sub.1 in FIG.
14) and related hardware and/or software may be associated with
and/or facilitate the operation of microphone 42; display system
152 and related hardware and/or software may be associated with
and/or facilitate the operation of a interface 45; and so on. In
one or more embodiments, theoretically a limitless number of
mechanical means, electrical means, audio means and/or other means
may be included in control device 30, which notion is represented
on FIG. 14 as "n" push buttons 112 (also labelled as PB.sub.n in
FIG. 14) where "n" may equal the total number of push buttons
included in control device 30. Although FIG. 14 illustrates
circuitry 80 including push buttons, other mechanical means,
electrical means, audio means, display means and/or other means may
be substituted.
[0104] FIG. 14 shows one embodiment of circuitry 80 which may
include a jack 100C (also labelled as J.sub.3 in FIG. 14). In one
or more embodiments, jack 100C may be configured to receive plug
48A and/or plug 48C from, for example, headset 20A and/or earbuds
20B, respectively. Although not shown in FIG. 14, jack 100C and its
related circuitry may be configured to receive and/or facilitate
the operation of various different types of earbuds and headsets.
In one or more embodiments, the circuitry associated with jack 100C
may be configured so as to allow signal path 82 and/or signal path
84 to come into contact with plug 48A and/or plug 48C which may be
respectively configured to headset 20A and/or earbuds 20B via cord
48B and/or cord 48D, respectively.
[0105] FIG. 14 shows one embodiment of control device 30 which may
be configured to receive and process wireless communication from
various sources by various means. For example, FIG. 14 shows one
embodiment of circuitry 80 which may communicate wirelessly to
mobile device 10 and wireless headset 20D, wireless earbuds 20E
and/or other devices, via wireless communication system 160. In
addition and/or alternatively, FIG. 14 shows one embodiment of
circuitry 80 which may communicate wirelessly to mobile device 10
and mobile device 10 may communicate wirelessly to wireless headset
20D, wireless earbuds 20E, and/or other devices. Although not shown
in FIG. 14, circuitry 80 may be configured to wirelessly
communicate with various types of mobile devices, headsets and
earbuds. In one or more embodiments, circuitry 80 may be able to
detect whether, for example, headset 20D, or some other headset or
earbuds, has a microphone and then inactivate microphone 116. For
example, in one or more embodiments, the microprocessor system 130
of FIG. 14 may be able to detect whether, for example, headset 20A,
or some other headset or earbuds, has a microphone via a signal
path 90 (which signal may be effected by conditioning and/or
amplifying device 92C) and inactivate microphone 116 via signal
path 86 (which signal may be effected by conditioning and/or
amplifying device 92D).
[0106] In one or more embodiments, once control device 30 receives
and processes wireless communication from various sources by
various means it may ultimately provide it to users to hear,
modify, control, visualize, and/or for other purposes and/or uses.
For example, as shown in FIG. 14, once control device's 30 wireless
communication system 160 receives and processes wireless
communication from mobile device 10, headset 20D, earbuds 20E
and/or other devices, the wireless communication system 160 may
then communicate the processed wireless communication to its
microprocessor system 130. In one or more embodiments,
microprocessor system 130 may manage, control, facilitate, process,
receive and/or produce communication, information, data and/or
signals to and/or from various components of control device 30. For
example, as shown in FIG. 14, microprocessor system 130 may be
configured to manage, control, facilitate, process, receive and/or
produce communication, information, data and/or signals to and/or
from: headset 20A and/or earbuds 20B via signal path 82 and/or
signal path 84, respectively; wireless communication system 160 and
signal path 161; mobile device 10 via wireless communication system
160 and signal path 161; headset 20D and/or earbuds 20E via
wireless communication system 160 via signal path 161; volume
control wheel 44 via volume control system 94; interface 45 via
display system 152 and signal path 153; microphone 42 via
microphone system 116 and signal path 86; power system 170 via
signal paths 173; signal path 90; jack 100C; first button 36 via
first push button 102; second button 38 via second push button 104;
third button 40 via third push button 108, and/or other sources
and/or combinations of sources, whether components of control
device 30 and/or accessory devices, whether expressly stated herein
or not; and/or whether illustrated in the drawings or not, but
which may be obvious to one skilled in the art.
[0107] Whether reflected in FIG. 14 or not, in one or more
embodiments, the components of circuitry 80 may have an electrical
connection(s) or electrical path(s) to signal path 88 and/or
otherwise be grounded.
[0108] FIG. 15 shows one embodiment of control device 30 which may
be configured to communicate with mobile device 10, headset 20D,
earbuds 20E and/or other devices via wireless communication means
and without a jack-plug combination.
[0109] FIG. 15 shows one embodiment of circuitry 80 which may
include various signal paths, such as, for example, signal path 86,
signal path 153, signal path 161, and/or signal paths 173. In one
or more embodiments, microprocessor system 130 may manage, control,
facilitate, process, receive and/or produce communication,
information, data and/or signals via signal path 86, signal path
153, signal path 161, signal paths 173 and/or other signal paths.
Although FIG. 15 shows signal flow only in one direction in
relations to signal path 86 and signal paths 173; signal path 86
may be configured to facilitate the communication of signals from
and/or to microprocessor system 130 to and/or from microphone 42
via microphone system 116; and/or signal paths 173 may be
configured to facilitate the communication of signals from and/or
to power system 170 to and/or from components of control device 30,
mobile device 10, headset 20D, earbuds 20E and/or other devices. As
shown in FIG. 15, signal path 153 may be configured to facilitate
the communication of signals from and/or to microprocessor system
130 to and/or from interface 45 via display system 152; and signal
path 161 may be configured to facilitate the communication of
signals from and/or to microprocessor system 130 to and/or from
wireless communication system 160. Although FIG. 16 shows signal
flows and signal paths in a particular configuration, in one or
more embodiments, alternative and/or additional configurations may
be implemented. In one or more embodiments, various signal paths
and/or other means may connect various components of microprocessor
system 130 to each other and/or to other components, devices and/or
systems. In one or more embodiments, signal paths in circuitry 80
may be affected by signal conditioning and/or amplification
devices. For example, as shown in FIG. 15 signal path 86 may be
affected by signal conditioning and/or amplification device 92D.
Although not necessarily show in FIG. 15, signal path 88 may be
configured to facilitate a ground path for one or more components
of control device 30.
[0110] FIG. 15 shows one embodiment of circuitry 80 which may
include hardware and/or software associated with and/or to
facilitate the operation of mechanical means, electrical means,
audio means, and/or other means, such as, for example, first push
button 102 (also labelled as PB.sub.1 in FIG. 15) and related
hardware and/or software may be associated with and/or facilitate
the operation of first button 36; second push button 104 (also
labelled as PB.sub.2 in FIG. 15) and related hardware and/or
software may be associated with and/or facilitate the operation of
second button 38; third push button 108 (also labelled as PB.sub.3
in FIG. 15) and related hardware and/or software may be associated
with and/or facilitate the operation of third button 40; volume
control system 94 and related hardware and/or software may be
associated with and/or facilitate the operation of volume control
wheel 44; microphone system 116 (also labelled as M.sub.1 in FIG.
15) and related hardware and/or software may be associated with
and/or facilitate the operation of microphone 42; display system
152 and related hardware and/or software may be associated with
and/or facilitate the operation of a interface 45; and so on. In
one or more embodiments, theoretically a limitless number of
mechanical means, electrical means, audio means and/or other means
may be included in control device 30, which notion is represented
on FIG. 15 as "n" push buttons 112 (also labelled as PB.sub.n in
FIG. 15) where "n" may equal the total number of push buttons
included in control device 30. Although FIG. 15 illustrates
circuitry 80 including push buttons, other mechanical means,
electrical means, audio means, display means and/or other means may
be substituted.
[0111] FIG. 15 shows one embodiment of control device 30 which may
be configured to receive and process wireless communication from
various sources by various means. For example, FIG. 15 shows one
embodiment of circuitry 80 which may communicate wirelessly to
mobile device 10 and wireless headset 20D, wireless earbuds 20E
and/or other devices, via wireless communication system 160. In
addition and/or alternatively, FIG. 15 shows one embodiment of
circuitry 80 which may communicate wirelessly to mobile device 10
and mobile device 10 may communicate wirelessly to wireless headset
20D, wireless earbuds 20E, and/or other devices. Although not shown
in FIG. 15, circuitry 80 may be configured to wirelessly
communicate with various types of mobile devices, headsets and
earbuds. In one or more embodiments, circuitry 80 may be able to
detect whether, for example, headset 20D, or some other headset or
earbuds, has a microphone and then inactivate microphone 116. For
example, in one or more embodiments, the microprocessor system 130
of FIG. 15 may be configured to be able to detect whether, for
example, headsets or earbuds interfacing with control device 30
have a microphone and then inactivate microphone 116 via signal
path 86 (which signal may be affected by conditioning and/or
amplifying device 92D).
[0112] In one or more embodiments, once control device 30 receives
and processes wireless communication from various sources by
various means it may ultimately provide it to users to hear,
modify, control, visualize, and/or for other purposes and/or uses.
For example, as shown in FIG. 15, once control device's 30 wireless
communication system 160 receives and processes wireless
communication from mobile device 10, headset 20D, earbuds 20E
and/or other devices, the wireless communication system 160 may
then communicate the processed wireless communication to its
microprocessor system 130. In one or more embodiments,
microprocessor system 130 may manage, control, facilitate, process,
receive and/or produce communication, information, data and/or
signals to and/or from various components of control device 30. For
example, as shown in FIG. 15, microprocessor system 130 may be
configured to manage, control, facilitate, process, receive and/or
produce communication, information, data and/or signals to and/or
from: wireless communication system 160 and signal path 161; mobile
device 10 via wireless communication system 160 and signal path
161; headset 20D and/or earbuds 20E via wireless communication
system 160 via signal path 161; volume control wheel 44 via volume
control system 94; interface 45 via display system 152 and signal
path 153; microphone 42 via microphone system 116 and signal path
86; power system 170 via signal paths 173; first button 36 via
first push button 102; second button 38 via second push button 104;
third button 40 via third push button 108, and/or other sources
and/or combinations of sources, whether components of control
device 30 and/or accessory devices, whether expressly stated herein
or not; and/or whether illustrated in the drawings or not, but
which may be obvious to one skilled in the art.
[0113] Whether reflected in FIG. 15 or not, in one or more
embodiments, the components of circuitry 80 may have a grounded
electrical connection(s) or electrical path(s).
[0114] In one or more embodiment, the circuitry 80 of FIG. 15 may
be designed to include each and every aspect, feature and
functionality as describe and/or associated with the embodiment as
illustrated, described and/or related to FIG. 14 in anyway, all of
which are hereby incorporated herein to the description relating to
FIG. 15 by reference as if set forth in full, excepting only those
pertaining to the following devices and signal paths: jack 100C,
signal path 82, signal path 84, signal path 90, signal conditioning
and/or amplification device 92A, signal conditioning and/or
amplification device 92B, signal conditioning and/or amplification
device 92C and/or signal path 88. Notwithstanding said devices and
signal paths are not expressly illustrated in FIG. 15, in one or
more embodiments, the aspects, features and/or functionality
associated with said devices and signal paths may be available in
the embodiments illustrated in FIG. 15, albeit, in one or more
embodiments, such may be provide by different means. For example,
in one or more embodiments, microprocessor system 130 may process
and send and/or receive communication which may have been
accomplished via jack 100C, signal path 82, signal path 84, signal
path 90, signal conditioning and/or amplification device 92A,
signal conditioning and/or amplification device 92B, signal
conditioning and/or amplification device 92C and/or signal path 88,
to and/or from other systems which may perform the same and/or
similar functions, such as, for example, wireless communication
system 160 and ultimately to and/or from mobile device 10, headset
20D, earbuds 20E and/or other devices.
[0115] FIG. 16 shows an expanded view of one embodiment of
microprocessor system 130. The embodiments of microprocessor system
130 as illustrated and described in relation to FIGS. 14 and/or 15
may be implemented in whole, in part, or not by the microprocessor
system 130 illustrated and described in relation to FIG. 16.
Although not shown in full, the microprocessor system 130 of FIG.
16 may be designed to interact with various accessory devices (such
as mobile device 10, headset 20D, earbuds 20E, headset 20A, earbuds
20B and/or other devices) via at least one jack-plug combination
and/or via at least one wireless communication system and/or other
means.
[0116] FIG. 16 shows one embodiment of microprocessor system 130
which may include various conventional and/or non-conventional
components, such as, the following: a data packetization/de-packing
and/or merging/splitting system 132, an audio/video remote control
protocol and/or encode/decode system 134, a display interface
system 136, a user control inputs system 138, an advanced audio
distribution profile and/or decode/encode system 140, a digital
output conditioning and/or volume control system 142, a
digital-to-analog conversion system 144, a digital input
conditioning system 146, an analog-to-digital conversion system
148, and/or a local and/or boom microphone selector system 150.
Although processes mentioned in the previous sentence may be
labelled in FIG. 16 to indicate possible functionality, in one or
more embodiments, other functionality may be performed by such
processes and the labels in FIG. 16 (and elsewhere) should not be
interpreted to limit any systems functionality. In one or more
embodiments, implementation of microprocessor system 130 may
include none, one, more than one of the above stated and
illustrated processes/systems and/or other processes/systems and
may be configurable, adaptable and customizable to meet the various
needs of various users in various circumstances. Microprocessor
system 130 may include abilities, systems, devices, means,
functionality, and/or features not expressly and/or impliedly
described herein and/or illustrated in the drawings to this
application but which may be obvious to one skilled in the art,
whether developed later or known at the time of filing.
[0117] Referring to FIG. 16, in one or more embodiments, wireless
communication may be transmitted between and/or among wireless
communication system 160 (which may be accomplished by various
means, including, for example, Bluetooth interface bi-directional
Radio Frequency ("RF") communication technology or some other
technology) and various devices (such as, for example, mobile
device 10, headset 20D (not shown), earbuds 20E (not shown), and/or
other devices) and various components of control device 30 (such
as, for example, microprocessor system's 130 data
packetization/de-packing and/or merging/splitting system 132). In
one or more embodiments, wireless communication system 160 may
handle Bluetooth protocol, encrypt data, correct error, and/or
otherwise process communication for various purposes and send
and/or receive communication to and/or from various systems,
including, for example, various devices (such as, for example,
mobile device 10, headset 20D (not shown), earbuds 20E (not shown),
and/or other devices) and various components of control device 30
(such as, for example, microprocessor system's 130 data
packetization/de-packing and/or merging/splitting system 132).
Although not shown in FIG. 16, in one or more embodiments,
circuitry 80 may communicate wirelessly to mobile device 10 and
mobile device 10 may communicate wirelessly to wireless headset
20D, wireless earbuds 20E, and/or other devices. Although not shown
in FIG. 16, in one or more embodiments, circuitry 80 may be
configured to wirelessly communicate with various types of mobile
devices, headsets and earbuds. Although not shown in FIG. 16, in
one or more embodiments, circuitry 80 may be able to detect
whether, for example, headset 20D, or some other headset or
earbuds, has a microphone and then inactivate microphone 116. For
example, in one or more embodiments, the microprocessor system 130
of FIG. 16 may be able to detect whether, for example, headset 20A
(not shown), or some other headset or earbuds, has a microphone via
a signal path 90 (which signal may be effected by conditioning
and/or amplifying device 92C) and inactivate microphone 116 via
signal path 86 (which signal may be effected by conditioning and/or
amplifying device 92D). In one or more embodiments, once control
device 30 receives and processes wireless communication from
various sources by various means it may ultimately provide it to
users to hear, modify, control, visualize, and/or for other
purposes and/or uses. For example, as shown in FIG. 16, once
control device's 30 wireless communication system 160 receives and
processes wireless communication from mobile device 10, headset 20D
(not shown), earbuds 20E (not shown) and/or other devices, the
wireless communication system 160 may then communicate the
processed wireless communication to its microprocessor system 130.
In one or more embodiments, microprocessor system 130 may manage,
control, facilitate, process, receive and/or produce communication,
information, data and/or signals to and/or from various components
of control device 30. For example, as shown in FIG. 16,
microprocessor system 130 may be configured to manage, control,
facilitate, process, receive and/or produce communication,
information, data and/or signals to and/or from: headset 20A (not
shown) and/or earbuds 20B (not shown) via signal path 82 and/or
signal path 84, respectively; wireless communication system 160 and
signal path 161; mobile device 10 via wireless communication system
160 and signal path 161; headset 20D (not shown) and/or earbuds 20E
(not shown) via wireless communication system 160 via signal path
161; volume control wheel 44 via volume control system 94;
interface 45 via display system 152 and signal path 153; microphone
42 via microphone system 116 and signal path 86; power system 170
via signal paths 173; signal path 90; jack 100C; first button 36
via first push button 102; second button 38 via second push button
104; third button 40 via third push button 108, and/or other
sources and/or combinations of sources, whether components of
control device 30 and/or accessory devices, whether expressly
stated herein or not; and/or whether illustrated in the drawings or
not, but which may be obvious to one skilled in the art.
[0118] In one or more embodiments, data packetization/de-packing
and/or merging/splitting system 132 may de-pack, split, packetize,
merge and/or otherwise process communication for various purposes
and send and/or receive communication to and/or from various
systems, including, for example, wireless communication system 160,
audio/video remote control protocol and/or encode/decode system 134
and/or advanced audio distribution profile and/or decode/encode
system 140.
[0119] In one or more embodiments, audio/video remote control
protocol and/or encode/decode system 134 may encode, decode and/or
otherwise process communication for various purposes (such as, for
example, in order to facilitate a user's remote control of other
devices) and send and/or receive communication to and/or from
various systems, including, for example, data
packetization/de-packing and/or merging/splitting system 132,
display interface 136, user control inputs systems 138, and/or
volume control system 94.
[0120] In one or more embodiments, display interface 136 may
generate displays, interface with other systems, and/or otherwise
process communication for various purposes and send and/or receive
communication to and/or from various systems, including, for
example, display system 152. In one or more embodiments, display
system 152 may process communication for various purposes and send
and/or receive communication to and/or from various systems and/or
be associated with and/or facilitate the operation of interface 45
wherein a user may view, manipulate and/or perform various
functions such as, for example, selecting media controls (such as,
for example, volume control, title selection, play, pause, stop,
fast forward, next, rewind, previous, etc.), phone functionalities
(such as, for example, answer, hang-up, dial, call, hold, mute,
etc.) and/or other functions.
[0121] In one or more embodiments, user control inputs systems 138
may convert mechanical actuations into electrical signals and/or
alter electrical circuitry based on mechanical actuations and/or
otherwise process communication for various purposes and send
and/or receive communication from various systems, such as, for
example, elements of circuitry 80 which may include hardware and/or
software associated with mechanical means, electrical means, audio
means, and/or other means, such as, for example, first push button
102 (also labelled as "Button 1" in FIG. 16) which may be
associated with and/or facilitate the operation of first button 36;
second push button 104 (also labelled as "Button 2" in FIG. 16)
which may be associated with and/or facilitate the operation of
second button 38; third push button 108 (also labelled as "Button
3" in FIG. 16) which may be associated with and/or facilitate the
operation of third button 40; and/or various other buttons and/or
means (in one or more embodiments, theoretically a limitless number
of mechanical means, electrical means, audio means and/or other
means may be included in control device 30, which notion is
represented on FIG. 16 as "Button n", where "n" may equal the total
number of push buttons included in control device 30). Although
FIG. 16 illustrates circuitry 80 including push buttons, other
mechanical means, electrical means, audio means, display means
and/or other means may be substituted.
[0122] In one or more embodiments, volume control system 94 may
convert mechanical actuations into electrical signals and/or alter
electrical circuitry based on mechanical actuations and/or
otherwise process communication for various purposes and send
and/or receive communication to and/or from various systems (such
as, for example, audio/video remote control protocol and/or
encode/decode system 134 and/or digital output conditioning and/or
volume control system 142) and/or be associated with and/or
facilitate the operation of volume control wheel 44 wherein a user
may control the level of audio signals and/or other functions.
[0123] In one or more embodiments, advanced audio distribution
profile and/or decode/encode system 140 may decode and/or encode
communication, manage signal streams, and otherwise process
communication for various purposes and send and/or receive
communication to and/or from various systems, such as, for example,
data packetization/de-packing and/or merging/splitting system 132,
digital output conditioning and/or volume control system 142 and/or
digital input conditioning system 146.
[0124] In one or more embodiments, digital output conditioning
and/or volume control system 142 may condition communication,
perform compression, amplification, equalization, filter, and/or
noise reduction related functions, and otherwise process
communication for various purposes and send and/or receive
communication to and/or from various systems, such as, for example,
volume control system 94, digital-to-analog conversion system 144
and/or advanced audio distribution profile and/or decode/encode
system 140.
[0125] In one or more embodiments, digital-to-analog conversion
system 144 may convert digital signals to analog signals and
otherwise process communication for various purposes (such as, for
example, preparing signals to ultimately be heard by a user) and
send and/or receive communication to and/or from various systems,
such as, for example, digital output conditioning and/or volume
control system 142, signal path 82, signal path 84, and/or
ultimately headset 20A (not shown in FIG. 16), earbuds 20B (not
shown in FIG. 16), and/or other devices, and/or wireless
communication system 160 and ultimately mobile device 10, headset
20D (not shown in FIG. 16), earbuds 20E (not shown in FIG. 16)
and/or other devices (although not shown in FIG. 16).
[0126] In one or more embodiments, digital input conditioning
system 146 may condition communication, perform compression,
amplification, equalization, filter, and/or noise reduction related
functions, and otherwise process communication for various purposes
and send and/or receive communication to and/or from various
systems, such as, for example, advanced audio distribution profile
and/or decode/encode system 140 and/or analog-to-digital conversion
system 148.
[0127] In one or more embodiments, analog-to-digital conversion
system 148 may convert analog signals to digital signals and
otherwise process communication for various purposes, including,
for example, converting signals from users into a format which may
processed by control device 30, and send and/or receive
communication to and/or from various systems, such as, for example,
digital input conditioning system 146 and/or local and/or boom
microphone selector system 150.
[0128] In one or more embodiments, local and/or boom microphone
selector system 150 may detect various functionalities of devices
(such as, for example, whether a headset has a boom microphone or
not) and/or modify various functionality of circuitry 80
accordingly (such as, for example, inactivating microphone system
116 and/or the available use of microphone 42 in the instance when
a headset has a built-in microphone that may be used instead of
microphone 42), and send and/or receive communication to and/or
from various systems, such as, for example, microphone system 116
(also labelled as M.sub.1 in FIG. 16) and which may be associated
with and/or facilitate the operation of microphone 42), jack 100C,
and/or wireless communication system 160, mobile device 10, headset
20D (not shown), earbuds 20E (not shown) and/or other devices.
[0129] FIG. 16 shows one embodiment of circuitry 80 which may
include various signal paths, such as, for example, signal path 82,
signal path 84, signal path 86, signal path 88, signal path 90,
signal path 153, signal path 161, and/or signal paths 173. In one
or more embodiments, microprocessor system 130 may manage, control,
facilitate, process, receive and/or produce communication,
information, data and/or signals via signal path 82, signal path
84, signal path 86, signal path 88, signal path 90, signal path
153, signal path 161, signal paths 173 and/or other signal paths.
Although FIG. 16 shows signal flow only in one direction in
relations to signal path 82, signal path 84, signal path 86, signal
path 90, and signal paths 173, signal path 82 may be configured to
facilitate the communication of audio signals from and/or to
microprocessor system 130 to and/or from one or more speakers
and/or microphones in headset 20A (not shown), earbuds 20B (not
shown), and/or other devices; signal path 84 may be configured to
facilitate the communication of audio signals from and/or to
microprocessor system 130 to and/or from one or more speakers
and/or microphones in headset 20A (not shown), earbuds 20B (not
shown), and/or other devices; signal path 86 may be configured to
facilitate the communication of signals from and/or to
microprocessor system 130 to and/or from microphone 42 via
microphone system 116; signal path 90 may be configured to
facilitate the communication of signals from and/or to
microprocessor system 130 to and/or from headset 20A (not shown),
earbuds 20B (not shown), and/or other devices; and/or signal paths
173 may be configured to facilitate the communication of signals
from and/or to power system 170 to and/or from components of
control device 30, mobile device 10, headset 20A (not shown),
earbuds 20B (not shown)and/or other devices. As shown in FIG. 16,
signal path 153 may be configured to facilitate the communication
of signals from and/or to microprocessor system 130 to and/or from
interface 45 via display system 152; and signal path 161 may be
configured to facilitate the communication of signals from and/or
to microprocessor system 130 to and/or from wireless communication
system 160. Although FIG. 16 shows signal flows and signal paths in
a particular configuration, in one or more embodiments, alternative
and/or additional configurations may be implemented. In one or more
embodiments, various signal paths and/or other means may connect
various components of microprocessor system 130 to each other
and/or to other components, devices and/or systems. In one or more
embodiments, signal paths in circuitry 80 may be affected by signal
conditioning and/or amplification devices. For example, as shown in
FIG. 16 signal path 82 may be effected by signal conditioning
and/or amplification device 92A, signal path 84 may be effected by
signal conditioning and/or amplification device 92B, signal path 86
may be effected by signal conditioning and/or amplification device
92D, and signal path 90 may be effected by signal conditioning
and/or amplification device 92C. Although only shown in FIG. 16 in
relation to components associated with jack 100C, signal path 88
may be configured to facilitate a ground path for one or more
components of control device 30.
[0130] FIG. 16 shows one embodiment of circuitry 80 which may
include a jack 100C. In one or more embodiments, jack 100C may be
configured to receive plug 48A (not shown) and/or plug 48C (not
shown) from, for example, headset 20A (not shown) and/or earbuds
20B (not shown), respectively. Although not shown in FIG. 16, jack
100C and its related circuitry may be configured to receive and/or
facilitate the operation of various different types of earbuds and
headsets. In one or more embodiments, the circuitry associated with
jack 100C may be configured so as to allow signal path 82 and/or
signal path 84 to come into contact with plug 48A (not shown)
and/or plug 48C (not shown) which may be respectively configured to
headset 20A (not shown) and/or earbuds 20B (not shown) via cord 48B
(not shown) and/or cord 48D (not shown), respectively.
[0131] Whether reflected in FIG. 16 or not, in one or more
embodiments, the components of circuitry 80 may have an electrical
connection(s) or electrical path(s) to be grounded.
[0132] In one or more embodiments, a user may use control device 30
for various reasons, to perform various functions, and in various
ways.
[0133] FIG. 17 is a flow diagram that depicts one embodiment of a
method 200 for using control device 30 for communicating with a
mobile device (such as mobile device 10) and a headset (such as
headset 20A, headset 20C, headset 20D, earbuds 20B, and/or earbuds
20E) in accordance with one embodiment. The method 200 for using
control device 30 as illustrated in flow diagram FIG. 17 may be
customized, flexible and adapted to various circumstances and
situations.
[0134] Prior to entering step 202, the user may perform the
following tasks in any order: the user may secure control device 30
onto his or her person, clothing and/or equipment; the user may
connect (wirelessly or otherwise) control device 30 to a mobile
device (such as mobile device 10); the user may connect (wirelessly
or otherwise) control device 30 to a headset (such as headset 20A,
headset 20C, headset 20D, earbuds 20B and/or earbuds 20E); the user
may dress for the sport and/or other activity, such as placing
gloves or other equipment on his or her hands; and the user may
select music to listen to which audio signals may be communicated
from mobile device 10 to the control device 30 which communicates
to the headset.
[0135] In step 202, a user enters the process and may be listening
to audio signals communicated from mobile device 10 to the control
device 30 which communicates the audio signals to the headset while
the user may be engaging in a sport and/or activity.
[0136] In step 204, an incoming call may arrive at the mobile
device 10.
[0137] In step 206, the audio signals being communicated to the
user prior to the arrival of the call may be automatically stopped,
paused or muted.
[0138] In step 208, the user may manipulate at least one button on
control device 30 while wearing gloves or other equipment to take
the incoming call.
[0139] In step 210, the user may speak into microphone 42 on
control device 30 to communicate with the caller and may hear the
caller through microphone 42 or the headset.
[0140] In step 212, the call may terminate when the caller hangs up
or when the user manipulates at least one button on control device
30.
[0141] In step 214, the audio signals may automatically resume
being communicated to the user from mobile device 10 to the control
device 30 which communicates the audio signals to the headset.
[0142] FIG. 18 is a flow diagram that depicts one embodiment of a
method 300 for using control device 30 for communicating with a
mobile device (such as mobile device 10) and a headset (such as
headset 20A, headset 20C, headset 20D, earbuds 20B, and/or earbuds
20E) in accordance with one embodiment. The method 300 for using
control device 30 as illustrated in flow diagram FIG. 18 may be
customized, flexible and adapted to various circumstances and
situations.
[0143] Prior to entering step 302, the user may perform the
following tasks in any order: the user may secure control device 30
onto his or her person, clothing and/or equipment; the user may
connect (wirelessly or otherwise) control device 30 to a mobile
device (such as mobile device 10); the user may connect (wirelessly
or otherwise) control device 30 to a headset (such as headset 20A,
headset 20C, headset 20D, earbuds 20B and/or earbuds 20E); the user
may dress for the sport and/or other activity, such as placing
gloves or other equipment on his or her hands; and the user may
select music to listen to which audio signals may be communicated
from mobile device 10 to the control device 30 which communicates
to the headset.
[0144] In step 302, a user enters the process and may be listening
to audio signals communicated from mobile device 10 to the control
device 30 which communicates the audio signals to the headset while
the user may be engaging in a sport and/or activity.
[0145] In step 304, the user may manipulate at least one button on
control device 30 while wearing gloves or other equipment to modify
the audio signals being communicated from mobile device 10 to the
control device 30 which communicates the audio signals to the
headset. In one or more embodiments, modification of the audio
signal may include at least one of the following: play music, pause
music, stop music, mute music, fast forward music, rewind music,
skip a song, shuffle music, select music, control the speed of
audio communication, and/or control the volume of audio
communication. This step may be repeated as desired.
[0146] In one or more embodiments, a user may use control device 30
in alternative and/or additional way. For example, in one or more
embodiments, a user may secure control device 30 onto his or her
person, clothing and/or equipment (such as, for example, ski
gloves); if a user hasn't already connected mobile device 10 to
control device 30 and/or connected earbuds 20B to control device
30, a user may do so and/or if a user isn't already engaging in an
activity, a user may start engaging in an activity; and a user may
operate control device 30 and/or mobile device 10 (for example, a
user may select a song to listen to by clicking on the applicable
button(s), selecting the applicable display feature(s) and/or
saying the applicable voice command(s) associated with control
device 30 which may interact with mobile device 10 to carry out the
action(s) requested, or in addition or alternatively, a user may
place and/or take a call by clicking on the applicable button(s),
selecting the applicable display feature(s) and/or saying the
applicable voice command(s) associated with control device 30 which
may interact with mobile device 10 to carry out the action(s)
requested and the user may speak into a microphone associated with
control device 30 to communicate with the person on the other end
of the call).
[0147] In one or more embodiments, a user may desire to engage in a
variety of activities and dresses in applicable clothing and/or
equipment; a user may obtain control device 30, mobile device 10
and earbuds 20B (or another device); a user may clip or otherwise
secure control device 30 onto his or her clothing and/or equipment
sufficient enough so that is may not fall off said clothing and/or
equipment while engaging in an activity; a user may connect mobile
device 10 to control device 30; a user may connect earbuds 20B to
control device 30; a user may turn on control device 30 and/or
mobile device 10; a user may select a song to listen to by clicking
on the applicable button(s), selecting the applicable display
feature(s) and/or saying the applicable voice command(s) associated
with control device 30 which may interact with mobile device 10 to
carry out the action(s) requested and which song may begin to play
though earbuds 20B; a user may start engaging in an activity; a
user may select a different song while engaged in the activity and
wearing control device 30 and wearing clothing and/or equipment
associated with the activity (such as, for example, ski gloves) by
clicking on the applicable button(s), selecting the applicable
display feature(s) and/or saying the applicable voice command(s)
associated with control device 30 which may interact with mobile
device 10 to carry out the action(s) requested and which song may
begin to play though earbuds 20B; a user may place and/or take a
call by clicking on the applicable button(s), selecting the
applicable display feature(s) and/or saying the applicable voice
command(s) associated with control device 30 which may interact
with mobile device 10 to carry out the action(s) requested and the
audio of which may sound though earbuds 20B and the user may speak
into a microphone associated with control device 30 to communicate
with the person on the other end of the call; a user may end a call
by clicking on the applicable button(s), selecting the applicable
display feature(s) and/or saying the applicable voice command(s)
associated with control device 30 which may interact with mobile
device 10 to carry out the action(s) requested; and/or a user may
resume listening to music automatically upon ending the call and/or
by clicking on the applicable button(s), selecting the applicable
display feature(s) and/or saying the applicable voice command(s)
associated with control device 30 which may interact with mobile
device 10 to carry out the action(s) requested.
[0148] In one or more embodiments, a user may secure control device
30 onto the user's clothing via the securement mechanism; the user
connect mobile device 10 to control device 30; the user may connect
earbuds 20B to control device 30; the user may wear gloves on his
or her hands while engaging in an activity; and the user, while
wearing the gloves, may manipulate the control device 30.
[0149] In one or more embodiments, a user may plug control device
30 into a headset (such as, earbuds, headphones and/or other sound
system) using a first cord. A user may plug control device 30 into
mobile device 10 (such as, a mobile phone, mp3 player, and/or other
audio device) a second cord. First and second cords may be long
enough to be routed through the user's sleeve if user chooses. If a
user so chooses, the cords may be routed through the user's sleeve
in any way preferable to user. The user may turn on mobile device
10 and select music and other apps the user may choose to hear
through the headset. The user may set the volume of the music to a
desired level. The user may attach control device 30 to a sleeve,
coat collar, arm, wrist, pocket and/or wherever user chooses to
attach or carry the control device 30 on his or her person,
clothing and/or equipment. The user manipulates at least one button
to "play" the music. The music may automatically be "paused" when a
call comes into mobile device 10. The user may push at least one
button to answer incoming calls. A user may speak directly into
microphone 42 on the control device 30 to communicate with the
caller and hear the caller's voice through the user's headset. The
music may automatically resume when the call is terminated. The
control device may be removed when the user is finished using
control device 30. Control device 30 may be stored easily in a
pocket, backpack, equipment bag and/or other wherever user chooses
to attach or carry the control device 30. Control device 30 may
durable enough to be safely stored in any type of equipment bag
with other equipment such as ski boots, helmets, etc.
[0150] Different embodiments of the disclosure may implement the
above scenarios and/or variations of the above scenarios. In one or
more embodiment, any of the structures, functions, and/or features
of any aspect of the disclosure may be combined with any of the
structures, functions, and/or features of any other aspect of the
disclosure. In one or more embodiments, each component of the
disclosures may be provided in any color.
[0151] In one or more embodiments, other modifications may be made
to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and/or otherwise
disclosed herein and/or equivalents, which may include and/or have
the capacity to utilize abilities, systems, devices, articles,
means, functionality, features, methods and/or uses not expressly
and/or impliedly described herein and/or illustrated in the
drawings to this application but which may be obvious to one
skilled in the art, whether developed later or known at the time of
filing.
[0152] It should be understood that the present systems, devices,
means, methods and structures are not intended to be limited to the
particular forms disclosed; rather, they are to cover all
combinations, modifications, equivalents and alternatives. A
system, device, article, means, method or structure that is
configured in a certain way may be configured in at least that way,
but may also be configured in ways that are not described or
illustrated. The disclosure may be configured to function with a
variety of systems, devices, means, methods, and structures.
Different materials may be used for individual components.
Different materials may be combined in a single component.
[0153] The present disclosure may be embodied in other specific
forms without departing from its spirit or essential
characteristics. It is appreciated that various features of the
above described examples and embodiments may be mixed and matched
to form a variety of other combinations and alternatives. It is
also appreciated that devices, methods and systems disclosed herein
should not be limited simply to control devices, methods and
systems. The described embodiments are to be considered in all
respects as illustrative and not restrictive. Other embodiments
and/or implementations are within the scope of the following claims
and at least all changes which come within the meaning and range of
equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.
The scope of the disclosure may be indicated by the appended claims
rather than by any of the foregoing description.
* * * * *