Abstract: A sound and light control apparatus includes an audio signal input terminal for receiving an audio signal, a voltage dividing circuit electrically connected to the audio signal input terminal for dividing the voltage of the audio signal into two divided voltages, a control knob electrically connected to the voltage dividing circuit for adjusting the divided voltages, at least one audio signal output terminal electrically connected to the voltage dividing circuit and at least one loudspeaker for transmitting one divided voltage to the loudspeaker, a frequency-divider crossover circuit electrically connected to the voltage dividing circuit for filtering the other divided voltage according to a plurality of different audio frequencies to generate corresponding frequency division voltages, and transmitting each frequency division voltage to a corresponding frequency division voltage output terminal electrically connected to a light emitting diode and enabling the light emitting diode to produce light correspondin

Abstract: A contents reproduction apparatus that reproduces contents suitable for a user's environment includes a position detecting unit detecting a user's position, an operation detecting unit detecting a movement of a user's body, a contents generating unit generating contents based on the user's position and the movement of the user's body, and a contents reproducing unit reproducing the generated contents.

Abstract: The present invention transmits sounds and/or music to an unborn baby in the mother's womb via a waist belt and speaker disposed within the belt, where the speaker connects to most audio devices via a universal audio plug. The waist belt can also be used to temporarily house/transport appropriate portable audio devices in an internal pocket. The speaker of the present invention utilizes a volume control unit that is separate from a volume control of an attached audio device and that allows for limiting and/or adjusting the sound volume delivered by the speaker. The separate volume control unit is an improvement over any previously known devices because it provides additional safety for the developing baby's hearing.

Abstract: A user wearable accessory provides push-to-tall (PTT), microphone and adjustable electrical cord length features in a single device. First and second adjustable electrical cords couple a portable communication device to an earpiece. The accessory is formed of front and back housing portions coupled together to provide a spooling feature therebetween. The spooling feature accommodates the two electrical cords such that a user is able to wrap each cord to provide an overall desired length. Users of different heights can adjust the cord length as desired thereby minimizing tangling of the cords.

Abstract: In an audio device that has a port for connection and that constitutes an audio system together with at least one external device having a port for connection with the audio device via a communication line, a plurality of connection setting templates are previously prepared, which contain target port connection information specifying target destination ports to which the ports of the audio device and the external device that constitute the audio system should be connected. One of the connection setting templates is selected. Check is made to compare the target port connection information contained in the selected connection setting template with actual port connection information indicating actual destination ports to which respective ports of the audio device and the external device constituting the audio system are actually connected.

Abstract: A mobile communication terminal and a voice input/output method for inputting/outputting voice during playback of music data by using a Bluetooth communication scheme are disclosed. The method includes connecting to a headset via a simplex channel according to the Bluetooth communication scheme when music data is played; determining if a call has been connected; terminating current connection to the headset via the simplex channel and connecting to the headset via a duplex channel according to the Bluetooth communication scheme while maintaining the playback of music data when the call has been connected; mixing decoded music data with data obtained by decoding incoming voice data received from the communication partner as a result of a call connection; and outputting the mixed data to the headset via a transmission channel of the duplex channel and receiving originating voice data of the user from the headset via a reception channel of the duplex channel.

Abstract: A body motion controlled audio playing device is disposed with a sensing switch that can be covered in a non-contact way to selectively enable such functions as startup, shutdown, mute, and volume adjustment.

Abstract: The presentation of visual feedback in an electronic entertainment system is disclosed. One disclosed embodiment relates to a method of providing user feedback in an electronic entertainment system, wherein the method comprises inviting an input from a user, receiving a user input via a hand-held remote input device, performing a comparison of the user input received to an expected input, assigning a rating to the user input received based upon the comparison to the expected input, and adjusting light emitted by one or more lights sources on the input device based upon the rating.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a modular automotive multimedia and telematic extension unit and head unit. In one embodiment, the present invention is an extension unit including a storage unit storing an application of an external personal electronic device, a processor connected to the storage unit, and a first connection unit connected to the storage unit and configured to be connected to a head unit in an automobile.

Abstract: An audio player plush includes a battery, digital memory, speaker in electrical communication with the digital memory, and a set of controls modulating speaker output associated with the digital memory. A cover bounds the digital memory and is formed of a plush fabric. A fill material within the plush fabric provides a soft surface to the audio player. A pocket is provided within the cover that is selectively closable and encompasses a digital connector for coupling the digital memory to a computer or other source of digital audio files for downloading of such files into the digital memory. When not in use, the digital connector is selectively closed within the pocket. An indicator light emitting light from the cover provides a user with a visual signal indicative of the activation state of the digital memory.

Abstract: An illuminating device comprises a heat sink, at least one light emitting module and a speaker. The heat sink has a first containing space, a second containing space and a first channel being in communication with the first containing space and the second containing space. The light emitting module is arranged in the first containing space and contacted with the heat sink. The speaker comprising a thin film is arranged in the second containing space. When the speaker is in operation, the thin film vibrates so that a first airflow from the second containing space to the first containing space through the first channel is formed. In the above-mentioned illuminating device, the vibration of the thin film of the speaker causes air in the first containing space to flow, and the heat dissipation efficiency of the illuminating device is improved.

Abstract: A navigation apparatus includes notification means for notifying an advance direction at a branching point in a route guiding, storage means for storing a plurality of moving methods and notification methods corresponding to the respective moving methods, input means for selecting one of the plurality of moving methods stored in the storage means, and control means for causing the notification means to perform notification by the notification method corresponding to the moving method selected by the input means. Thus, it is possible to easily set a route guiding such as a distance to the branching point where guiding is started for each of the moving methods and a sound volume.

Abstract: A delivery system is disclosed, which has a transmission apparatus and a plurality of reception terminals communicably connected through a network. The transmission apparatus includes a correction section which pre-obtains a plurality of types of correction coefficients according to acoustic characteristics of the plurality of reception terminals and forms a plurality of corrected audio signals based on an audio signal and the correction coefficients; a conversion section which converts the plurality of corrected audio signals into a plurality of pieces of delivery data; and a delivery server which delivers the delivery data to the reception terminals through the network. Each of the reception terminals includes a communication section which communicates with the transmission apparatus. The transmission apparatus delivers to the reception terminals the delivery data according to the acoustic characteristics thereof.

Abstract: A method of releasably securing an article with an audio recording includes handling a binder clip having audio circuitry with recordation and playback capabilities. The binder clip includes a pair of actuating arms and a gripping portion. The audio circuitry is in the form other than that of a cell phone attached to the binder clip. The method additionally includes compressing the pair of actuating arms of the binder clip above the gripping portion to expand the gripping portion and inserting at least a portion of the article into the gripping portion. The method further includes releasing the actuating arms so that the gripping portion grips the portion of the article inside the binder clip and recording audio onto the audio circuitry.

Abstract: Provided are a method and apparatus for controlling a sound field through an array speaker. The method includes calculating a coefficient of a filter that controls sound pressure of an input signal, based on a sound pressure ratio of a suppression area that suppresses sound emitted from an array speaker and an emphasis area that emphasizes the sound, and sound pressure efficiency in the emphasis area, generating a plurality of output signals that focuses the sound to the emphasis area by filtering the input signal based on the calculated coefficient of the filter, and outputting a sound field controlled sound based on the generated plurality of output signals. Accordingly, a listener in a predetermined direction and distance from the array speaker can clearly hear sound, without wearing an earphone or a headset so as to focus the sound only to the listener.

Abstract: In one embodiment, this invention discloses a device that is a lamp on the one hand, and also a speaker on the other, comprising a light-emitting element, a surface that acts as a sound-emitting element, and a base socket that can fit to an ordinary household lamp socket. The surface can be translucent and act as a lamp cover at the same time. There is also an electronic assembly in the lamp that controls both the light-emitting and sound-emitting elements, as well as communicates with an external host or other devices. In another embodiment, the lamp cover can also couple with an acoustic-wave transducer unit so that the audio lamp device becomes a light and a microphone. Various sensors can also be equipped within the audio lamp, and the results can be sent to the external host through the electronic assembly.

Abstract: A radio communication system for transmitting voice or music data includes a data supplying source device for supplying the voice or music data, the data supplying source device having a reflector for transmitting a reflected wave signal obtained by modulating a received radio wave based on the data to be transmitted; and a data supply destination device for receiving the voice or music data, the data supply destination device having a reflected wave reader for transmitting an unmodulated carrier and for reading a reflected wave signal resulting from modulation of the unmodulated carrier. The voice or music data is transmitted by reflected wave transmission between the data supplying source device and the data supply destination device.

Abstract: A two way communication system that does not require the use of a device by one of the communicators. The system employs an audio spotlight to project a signal to a specific location, where one person is, and a laser audio receiver to receive the response. Both the audio spotlight and the laser audio receiver are directed by a user seeking to communicate with the person at long range.

Abstract: Controlling supplementary data channels using display state information involves processing, at a user device, a first broadcast signal having a content channel and a second signal having a supplementary data channel. The supplementary data channel is related to the content channel. The broadcast channel and supplementary channel are rendered to a user via the user device. The supplementary channel is at least partially rendered on a display of the user device. An event is determined that causes the display to be no longer viewable by the user. In response to determining the event, processing and rendering the supplementary data channel is ceased. The action of ceasing to process the supplementary data channel results in lowering power consumption of the user device.

Abstract: A real-time implementation of a subspace tracker is disclosed. Efficient architecture addresses the unique computational elements of the Fast Approximate Subspace Tracking (FAST) algorithm. Each of these computational elements can scale with the rank and size of the subspace. One embodiment of architecture described is implemented in digital hardware that performs variable rank subspace tracking using the FAST algorithm. In particular, the FAST algorithm is effectively implemented by a few processing elements, coupled with an efficient Singular Vector Decomposition (SVD), and the realization/availability of high density programmable logic devices. The architecture enables the ability to track the possibly changing dimension of the signal subspace.

Abstract: A heat dissipation device includes a hollow housing and a speaker. The hollow housing has a first opening and a second opening. The speaker is disposed at the first opening, wherein the speaker includes a diaphragm oscillating within a frequency scope the human ear cannot or hardly hear so as to generate airflow through the second opening.

Abstract: A stealth mode technique records information onto the sound track of a camcorder without the knowledge of the user. Infrasound is continuously generated by an array of audio sources placed in a geographical position that potentially encompasses the location of the recording device. A database stores the known characteristics of all audio sources. Once the recorded media is released to the public, a post analysis using a processing unit can decompose the recording back into a set of reconstructed audio sounds. An analysis can be performed to determine which audio sounds match the reconstructed audio sounds so that an estimate of the set of parameters associated with the sound track can be obtained. The set of parameters includes the geographical location and local time of the recording. The geographic location provides the opportunity to capture the terrorists and free the hostages.

Abstract: A sound output control apparatus includes a controller for a user to perform a stroke operation. The controller is provided with an acceleration sensor for detecting accelerations of two axes, for example. The sum of the accelerations is calculated, and the output of a sound is controlled in accordance with a change in the sum of the accelerations. More specifically, when the sum of the accelerations exceeds each of threshold values associated with strings of a string instrument such as a guitar, a sound corresponding to the threshold value is output.

Abstract: A communication terminal using a flat panel speaker outputs a message of warning, in forms of sound or text shown on display, before outputting sound from the flat panel speaker.

Abstract: A music reproducing device comprises an operating function unit and a reproducing function unit, wherein the reproducing function unit comprises an information notifying section for notifying the operating function unit of information of a piece of music to be reproduced, a notification controlling section for controlling the notification of the music information to the operating function unit by the information notifying section when the operating function unit is in an inactive state, and a memory section for temporarily memorizing the music information from the information notifying section when the operating function unit is in the inactive state, and the operating function unit comprises an information obtaining section for obtaining the music information from the memory section when the operating function unit recovers from the inactive state to an active state.

Abstract: A consumer electronic product (e.g., a portable media player ported to a media delivery accessory) is powered by a limited capacity DC power source (such as a battery or mini-fuel cell). The consumer electronic product limits the maximum allowable sound pressure level (SPL) that can be produced by the speakers. In one embodiment, the maximum allowable SPL is based upon an amount of stored energy available in the limited capacity DC power source.

Abstract: A method (40) and system (10) of presenting an electrophysiological signal, the method comprising receiving (41) the electrophysiological signal, extracting (42) different components from the received electrophysiological signal, processing (43) the different components to generate different audio signals corresponding to the respective different components, and audibly presenting (44) the different audio signals. Each component represents an activity of atleast one physiological unit.

Abstract: A wireless headphone kit for use with a media player. The wireless headphone kit includes a wireless headphone unit with an RF wireless receiver, a communication attachment unit that is adapted to physically attach to a media player device and communicates therewith, with the communication attachment unit having an RF wireless transponder that is adapted to communicate with the wireless headphone unit, and a wireless control device including a volume control, pause/play control, a forward control and a reverse control, which controls the communication attachment unit. The wireless headphone unit that is worn around a user's neck and includes earplugs with length adjustable wires.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for powering a device, such as a data recorder or other device, according to an adjustable schedule. One example of the apparatus includes a programmable timer having an alarm output, a power regulator having an enable input coupled to the alarm output, a controller coupled to the power regulator and to the programmable timer, the controller being configured to receive operating power from the power regulator, and a powered device coupled to the power regulator and configured to receive power from the power regulator. The regulator has an operating state in which the operating power is provided to the powered device and an idle state in which the operating power is not provided to the powered device. The regulator is configured to be activated into the operating state by activation of the alarm output and deactivated into the idle state by deactivation of the alarm output, under the control of the controller.

Abstract: This invention has as its object to record audio data by a simple operation upon recording the audio data as an operation sound or startup sound of an image sensing apparatus such as a digital camera or the like. To this end, upon recording audio data, since a startup sound, operation sound, shutter sound, and self-timer sound are set as purposes of audio data to be recorded, an audio recording time is set by selecting a desired one of these purposes. After the audio recording time is set, when audio recording is started by a user's intention, audio recording is executed for the set time, and other operations such as an audio recording stop operation and the like are inhibited during this interval. Hence, audio recording is executed until the set audio recording time elapses.

Abstract: A system including a projection screen having a surface, a projector configured to project images onto the surface of the projection screen and a camera configured to capture one or more images of the surface of the projection screen. An object can be configured to rest upon the surface, wherein the object and at least one of the projector and the camera are configured to cooperate with one another to communicate audio data through the surface of the projection screen while the object is resting upon the surface.

Abstract: A block-based seeking method for Windows Media Audio (WMA) stream can be implemented in a portable electronic device with a first processor and a second processor. The first processor initially reads a WMA stream from a block-based storage device. Next, the WMA stream is transmitted to a memory of a second processor block by block. The first processor generates and transmits a block number before it transmits a block of data. Next, the second processor decodes the WMA stream packet by packet. If a discontinuous block number occurs, a desired position of the WMA stream is sought according to the discontinuous block number. Next, the second processor outputs decoded samples of the WMA stream.

Abstract: A method of releasably securing an article with an audio recording includes handling a binder clip having audio circuitry with recordation and playback capabilities. The binder clip includes a pair of actuating arms and a gripping portion. The audio circuitry is in the form other than that of a cell phone attached to the binder clip. The method additionally includes compressing the pair of actuating arms of the binder clip above the gripping portion to expand the gripping portion and inserting at least a portion of the article into the gripping portion. The method further includes releasing the actuating arms so that the gripping portion grips the portion of the article inside the binder clip and recording audio onto the audio circuitry.

Abstract: A reproduction device has at least one screen for displaying information, with at least four sound reproduction devices respectively at the corners of the screen, which are separately driven depending on the local screen position of a user-relevant item of information such that direction information relating to the screen information is conveyed to the user by the resulting acoustic signal that is produced by the combined, individual driving, which is perceivable by the user.

Abstract: An accessory (100) has a housing (102) for varying a number of accessible poles (110A, 110C, 112A, 112C, 112E). The accessory includes a plurality of projections (110, 112) each having at least one pole coupled to an insulator (110B, 112B, 112D) to prevent electrical contact with another pole, a plurality of conduction wires (219) each insulated and connected at a first end to a corresponding pole of the plurality of projections, and at least one lever (105) coupled to a corresponding one or more of the plurality of projections for sliding one or more projections in and out of the housing in a plurality of positions (106A-C) after a force is applied on such lever, thereby controlling the exposure of a portion of at least one pole of each of one or more of the projections.

Abstract: A device and method for transmitting sound waves between a signal source and a user's ears, wherein the sound waves bypass the air. The sound waves are conducted by the user's teeth and bones to the user's ears, where they are perceived as sound. Sound-transmitting toothbrushes and the like are described to transmit and/or conduct sound to the user's ear, while the user is brushing his or her teeth. The toothbrush head and a signal source are configured to produce sound waves for transmission through the toothbrush head to the user's mouth, and a tension controller is configured to control the volume of the sound waves based on the pressure applied by the toothbrush head. The signal source may produce sound waves directly or with the assistance of a transducer. The signal source may be replaceable, connect to a replaceable cartridge, or connect to an adaptor capable of downloading data to allow the signal source data to be replaceable.

Abstract: The present invention is directed towards a family of vibroacoustic emulators to simulate the vibroacoustic characteristics of components of an electronic device. Specific embodiments for simulating a hard disk drive comprise a housing and a vibroacoustic generator coupled to the housing. Various embodiments enable acoustic emulation through a cover side and base side, out-of-plane vibrational emulation to simulate hard disk drive during seek periods, and in-plane vibrational emulation to simulate a hard-disk drive during idle periods. Methods for using the vibroacoustic emulators to characterize system noise are also disclosed.

Abstract: Audio recordation and reproduction spring clips of various configurations are disclosed. The clips are adapted to quickly, securely, resiliently, biasedly, and removably attach audio messages to documents, folders, papers, etc., as well as bind objects, such as documents, together.

Abstract: Systems, methods and devices for gathering data concerning media usage by predetermined audience members. An audience measurement code in acoustic energy produced by a media receiver is detected by a portable media monitor. The monitor also detects a location code produced in a vicinity of the media receiver.

Abstract: A water resistant/proof speaker module with improved performance and bass reflection is provided. The speaker module comprises a housing into which an audio unit fits. The speaker module is provide with a speaker face having at least 50% of the speaker face open to improve audio characteristics. Seals are provided along the speaker module to inhibit moisture from entering the device housing.

Abstract: A table light combined with a sound-playing device includes a table light body and a sound-playing device (such as speakers) freely pivoted on a horizontal plane via pivotal shafts. Both ends of the table light base are transversely pivoted to a pair of speakers. A flexible supporting pipe extends from the pivoting portion with the distal end thereof connected to a fixing seat of the sound-playing device. The electronic lines and sound lines of the speakers are buried within the supporting pipe. The sound lines extend to the fixing seat and are electrically connected to the sound-playing device (such as MP3 player).

Abstract: A method of conserving battery power includes providing an electrical conductor that is connectable between an audio source and an accessory of the audio source. The conductor is capable of conducting a first electrical signal, containing audio information from the audio source, to the accessory. A second electrical signal is applied to the conductor when the first electrical signal is not present on the conductor. An aspect of the second electrical signal is measured while it is being applied to the conductor. An amount of battery power supplied to the accessory is reduced when the measured aspect meets a predetermined condition.

Abstract: A combination camera and loudspeaker is described herein. The combination camera and loudspeaker includes a lens for selectively manipulating an image and a loudspeaker assembly disposed proximate the lens for projecting audible sounds. In one embodiment, a transparent piezo-electric aligned with at least a portion of the lens projects audible sound based on electrical signals applied to the piezo-electric diaphragm. In another embodiment, a speaker coil and magnet within the loudspeaker assembly encircles an outer perimeter of the lens, while a transparent diaphragm connected to the speaker coil and aligned with at least a portion of the lens projects audible sound based on the interaction between the speaker coil and magnet. The camera captures an image when light is transmitted through the transparent diaphragm to the camera lens. Further, the combination camera and loudspeaker may include a controller for selectively controlling optical properties of the transparent diaphragm.

Abstract: An audio system for an outdoor umbrella includes an audio housing, a detachable locker, and an audio device. The audio housing includes a first housing body and a second housing body defining a mounting slot for a shaft of the outdoor umbrella fitting therewithin. The detachable locker includes a first locker provided at the first housing body and a second locker which is provided at the second housing body and is releasably locked with the first locker so as to detachably lock up the second housing body with the first housing body. The audio device includes a speaker supported in the first housing body and an audio input operatively coupling with the speaker such that when the audio input sends an audio signal to the speaker, the speaker is adapted for producing audio sound as an additional function for the outdoor umbrella.

Abstract: The audio player is configured to be attached to a gift. In one embodiment, the audio player contains an electric circuit including a battery, a switch, an audio memory and loudspeaker in a series circuit. The switch is held open by a card positioned in a slot in the body of the audio player. The card usually contains the gift giver's and gift recipient's names and may contain a written sentiment. When the card is removed from the slot the switch is closed so that the memory produces a sequential signal. This is transformed by the loudspeaker into audible sound. The audible sound is a verbal or musical greeting, which may correspond to the occasion for which the gift is being presented. Other electrical and mechanical embodiments are disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed are an apparatus and a method for controlling an input signal level. The apparatus for controlling an input signal level according to the present invention includes: a memory for storing a current input signal level, a previous input signal level, a maximum change value, a maximum no-change value, a change counter value and a no-change counter value; a determining unit for determining whether the values stored in the memory are identical; and a control unit for reading out the values stored in the memory to output them to the determining unit and storing a predetermined level as the current input signal level based on the determination by the determining unit. The present invention can maintain an input signal at a predetermined level and thereby ensure stability of a device to which the level is applied and stability of a signal outputted from the device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for presenting a user with a visual indication of the likely user-perceived location of sound sources in an audio field generated from left and right audio channel signals. To produce this visual indication, corresponding components in the left and right channel signals are detected by a correlation arrangement. These corresponding components are then used by a source-determination arrangement to infer the presence of at least one sound source and to determine the azimuth location of this source within the audio field. A display processing arrangement causes a visual indication of the sound source and its location to be presented to the user.

Abstract: The medicine administration method employs a reminder device with a digital recorder, a visual display device, an audio speaker, a microphone, a resonator and light, a power supply, a computer processor unit, and appropriate controls encased in a housing. A code signal is entered into the device to open a recording function. An oral reminder message is recorded. A time schedule for playing the reminder message is inserted into the processor. When it is time to play the reminder message, a light is illuminated and a resonator is energized. A play button is pressed and the reminder message is played. Messages that are to be played in the future can be played by entering the time the future message is to be played and then playing the reminder message. After the message is played the current month, date and time is entered.

Abstract: A door trim speaker grille with an electroluminescent lamp for use with an audio speaker of a vehicle. The electroluminescent lamp is positioned for emitting visible light through sound passages in the speaker grille. In certain embodiments of the invention, the electroluminescent lamp may be integrally molded with the speaker grille. One method of forming the door trim speaker grille is by an injection molding process that places the electroluminescent lamp as an insert in the mold cavity.

Abstract: A portable comfort pillow having two headphone speakers mounted thereon and connected to a headset carrying strap for carrying by a user to give the appearance of a headset on the pillow. The comfort pillow includes a front all, a rear wall, a top wall, a bottom wall, a first end wall and a second end wall for forming a pillow covering. The pillow covering has an interior storage compartment for receiving an insert pillow member therein. The comfort pillow has means for connection to an audio player. The connection means includes a plug receptacle for receiving and electrically connecting to an outlet plug of the audio player. The comfort pillow includes a headphone speaker mounted on each of the first and second end walls of the pillow covering of the portable comfort pillow; wherein the headphones include outwardly facing speakers. The rear wall includes a pocket having a pocket compartment and a pocket opening for retaining and holding the audio player within the pocket compartment of the pocket.