Audio decoding device, audio decoding method, and audio encoding method

Abstract

The present invention provides an audio decoding method, comprising: obtaining an encoded bit stream by an audio decoder, the encoded bit stream including audio data and signal data, the signal data indicating that the loudness value of a target object is included in the encoded bit stream; obtaining the loudness value of the target object from the encoded bit stream by the audio decoder; and processing the audio data according to the loudness value of the target object by the audio decoder.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to and claims priority and benefits to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 558,286, "Adaptive Processing with Multimedia Processing Nodes," filed November 10, 2011, by Jeffrey Riedmiller, Regunathan Radhakrishnan, Marvin Pribadi, Farhad Farhani, and Mickael Smithers, which has been assigned to the assignee of this application. This invention relates to and claims priority and benefits to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 419,747, "END-TO-END METADATA PRESERVATION AND ADAPTIVE PROCESSING," filed December 3, 2010, by Jeffrey Riedmiller, Regunathan Radhakrishnan, Marvin Pribadi, Farhad Farhani, and Mickael Smithers, which has been assigned to the assignee of this application. This invention relates generally to media processing systems, and more particularly to adaptively processing media data based on the media processing status of the media data. Prior Technology Media processing units typically operate blindly, disregarding the processing history of media data prior to its reception. This can occur within a media processing framework where a single entity performs all media processing techniques and encodes the media for numerous target media presentation devices, while a single target media presentation device performs all decoding and presentation of the encoded media data. However, this blind approach is unsuitable (or completely ineffective) when multiple media processing units are distributed across different networks or front-to-back (e.g., in a chain) and are expected to ideally perform their respective types of media processing. For example, some media data may be encoded for high-performance media systems and must be converted into a scaled-down form suitable for mobile devices along with the media processing chain. Accordingly, a media processing unit may not need to perform a processing type on media data that has already been processed. For example, a volume adjustment unit performs processing on the input audio material regardless of whether volume adjustment was previously performed on the input audio material. As a result, the volume adjustment unit performs volume adjustment even when it is not needed. This unnecessary processing also causes certain characteristics to age and / or be removed when presenting the media content in the media data. Summary of the Invention The methods described in this section are feasible, but not methods that were previously conceivable or achievable. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, none of the methods described in this section should be considered prior art. Similarly, issues concerning the identification of one or more methods should not be considered prior art on the basis of this section, unless otherwise stated. Simple Explanation of the Diagram This invention is illustrative and not limited to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals denote the same elements, wherein: Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary media processing chain according to some feasible embodiments of the present invention; Figure 2 illustrates an exemplary enhanced media processing chain according to some feasible embodiments of the present invention; Figure 3 illustrates an exemplary encoder / transcoder according to some feasible embodiments of the present invention; Figure 4 illustrates an exemplary decoder according to some feasible embodiments of the present invention; Figure 5 illustrates an exemplary post-processing unit according to some feasible embodiments of the present invention; Figure 6 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an encoder / transcoder according to one of the feasible embodiments of the present invention; Figure 7 illustrates an exemplary evolutionary decoder control mode of operation of a volume adjustment unit based on the effectiveness of processing state metadata and / or associated loudness metadata, according to some feasible embodiments of the present invention; Figure 8 illustrates an exemplary configuration of using data hiding to transmit media processing information according to some feasible embodiments of the present invention; Figures 9A and 9B illustrate an exemplary process according to one feasible embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 illustrates an exemplary hardware platform on which a computer or computing device described herein may be implemented according to one feasible embodiment of the present invention; Figure 11 illustrates the media frame, through which processing status metadata associated with the media data within the media frame is transmitted; and Figures 12A to 12L illustrate block diagrams of some exemplary media processing nodes / apparatus according to some feasible embodiments of the present invention. Implementation Exemplary feasible embodiments relating to media data adaptive processing techniques in connection with the media processing status of media data are described herein. In the description which follows, numerous specific details are set forth herein for clarity, to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it should be understood that the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, known structures and apparatuses are not described in the detailed description to avoid unnecessarily limiting, obscuring, or confusing the invention. Exemplary embodiments are described herein according to the following outline: 1. Introduction 2. Media processing chain 3. Media processing device or unit 4. Demonstration of Adaptive Processing Techniques for Media Materials 5. Data Hiding 6. Demonstration Process 7. Implementing Organization - Hardware Overview 8. Examples of exemplary implementation methods are provided. 9. Equivalent extension, transformation forms and other aspects 1. Introduction This document provides a basic description of some aspects of one feasible embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted that this overview is not an extension or exhaustive conclusion of the aspects of the feasible embodiments. Furthermore, it should be noted that this overview is not intended to identify any particularly important aspects or elements of the feasible embodiments, nor to describe any aspect of the feasible embodiments or the invention in any general sense. This overview is merely a conceptual introduction to some concepts related to feasible embodiments in a concise and simplified form, and should be understood as only a more detailed conceptual introduction to one of the exemplary feasible embodiments described below. This invention discloses an adaptive media processing technique based on the media processing status of media data. In some feasible embodiments, a media processing unit in an enhanced media processing chain is automatically enabled to retrieve and verify media processing signals and / or processing status metadata, determine the status of the media data based on the media processing signals and / or processing status metadata, and adapt to its respective processing techniques based on the status of the media data. The media processing unit in the enhanced media processing chain may include, but is not limited to, encoders, transcoders, decoders, preprocessing units, post-processing units, bitstream processing tools, Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) codecs, Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) codecs, etc. A media processing unit may be a media processing system or a part of a media processing system. As used herein, the term "processing state metadata" refers to data separate from and distinct from media data. Media data (e.g., video frames, perceptually coded audio frames, or PCM audio samples containing media content) refers to media samples representing the media content and used to render the content as audio or video output. Processing state metadata is associated with media data and specifically indicates which processing types have been performed on the media data. This association between processing state metadata and media data is time-synchronized. Therefore, processing state metadata indicates that the media data simultaneously contains the results of media processing instruction types and / or descriptions of media characteristics within the media data. In some feasible embodiments, processing state metadata may include processing history and / or some, or all, parameters used in and / or derived from media processing instruction types. Furthermore and / or optionally, processing state metadata may include one or more different types of media characteristics calculated / extracted from the media data. The media characteristics described herein provide a semantic description of media data and may include structural properties, including pitch, timbre, rhythm, reference loudness, stereo mixing, or the amount of sound source, presence or absence of sound, repetition features, melody, harmony, lyrics, timbre, perceptual characteristics, digital media characteristics, stereo parameters, speech recognition (e.g., when a speaker is speaking), etc. Processing status metadata may also include other metadata unrelated to or not derived from any media data processing technology. For example, third-party data, tracking information, identifiers, proprietary or standard information, user annotation data, user favorites data, etc., can all be added by a specific media processing unit or transmitted to other media processing units. These independent types of metadata can be transmitted, verified, and used back and forth by one of the media processing components in the media processing chain. The term "media processing signal" refers to lighter control or status data (which may be a small amount of data relative to processing status metadata) used for communication between media processing units in a media bitstream. Media processing signals may contain a subset or a summary of processing state metadata. Media processing signals and / or processing status metadata can be embedded in one or more reserved fields (e.g., which may be, but are not limited to, currently unused fields), carried in a substream of a media bitstream, hidden with the media data, or provided with a separate media processing database. In some feasible embodiments, the amount of media processing signals and / or processing status metadata can be small enough to be carried (e.g., in a reserved field, or hidden in a media sample using reversible data hiding techniques, or storing detailed processing status information in an external database, while calculating or retrieving media fingerprints from the media data, etc.), without affecting the bit transfer rate configured for carrying the media data. Enhanced media processing signal and / or processing status metadata communication in a media processing chain is particularly advantageous when two or more media processing units need to work collaboratively throughout the media processing chain (or the content lifecycle). Without media processing signals and / or processing status metadata, such as when two or more audio codes are used in a chain and single-ended volume adjustment is applied more than once during the media content’s journey to a media consumption device (or one of the media content’s presentation points in the media data), serious media processing problems may occur, such as quality, level, and spatial degradation. In contrast, the techniques described herein enhance the intelligence of any or all media processing units in an enhanced media processing chain (or content lifecycle). With these techniques, any of these media processing units can simultaneously "listen and adapt" to and "announce" the media data status to downstream media processing units. Therefore, with these techniques, a downstream media processing unit can optimize its processing techniques based on knowledge of past media data processing performed by one or more upstream media processing units. With these techniques, media data processed entirely by the media processing chain becomes more efficient, adaptable, and predictable than others. As a result, the overall presentation and operation of media content within the media data is significantly improved. Importantly, under the techniques described herein, the existence of media data state indicated by media processing signals and / or processing state metadata has no negative impact on traditional media processing units that may appear in the enhanced media processing chain but cannot actively use media data state to adapt to media data processing. Furthermore, even if one traditional media processing unit in the media processing chain has a tendency to tamper with the processing results of other upstream media processing units, the processing state metadata described herein can still be securely and reliably transmitted to downstream media processing devices using secure communication methods employing cryptographic values, encryption, authentication, and data hiding. Examples of data hiding include both reversible and irreversible data hiding. In some feasible embodiments, in order to transmit one of the states of media data to a downstream media processing unit, the techniques described herein encapsulate and / or embed one or more processing sub-units in software, hardware or both forms into a media processing unit, so that the media processing unit can read, write and / or verify the processing state metadata accompanying the transmission of media data. In some feasible embodiments, a media processing unit (e.g., encoder, decoder, regulator) may receive media data for which one or more types of media processing have not previously been performed: 1) no processing state metadata exists to indicate these types of previously performed media processing, and / or 2) the processing state metadata may be incorrect or incomplete. Previously performed media processing types include operations that can modify media samples (e.g., volume adjustment) and operations that cannot modify media samples (e.g., fingerprinting and / or feature extraction based on media samples). The media processing unit may be configured to automatically generate “correct” processing state metadata reflecting the “true” state of the media data, and to associate this state of the media data with the media data by communicating the generated processing state metadata to one or more downstream media processing units. Furthermore, the association between the media data and the processing state metadata can be performed in a manner that allows a generated media bitstream to revert to compatibility with a conventional media processing unit (e.g., a conventional decoder). As a result, conventional decoders that do not employ the techniques described herein can still correctly decode media data because conventional decoders are designed for this purpose and do not take into account processing state metadata indicating the state of the media data. In some feasible embodiments, the media processing unit described herein can be configured to simultaneously have the ability to verify processing state metadata and (source) media data through forensic analysis and / or verification of one or more embedded hash values ​​(e.g., signatures). Under the techniques described herein, media data adaptive processing techniques based on the media data's simultaneous state indicated by received processing state metadata can be executed at different points in a media processing chain. For example, if the loudness metadata in the processing state metadata is valid, a volume adjustment unit following a decoder can be informed by the decoder with media processing signals and / or processing state metadata, enabling the volume adjustment unit to transmit media data, such as unchanged audio. In some embodiments, the processing state metadata includes media characteristics extracted from the media samples below. The media characteristics provide a semantic description of the media sample and can be included as part of the processing state metadata to indicate, for example, whether the media sample contains speech, music, whether someone is singing in a quiet or noisy environment, whether the singing overlaps with the sounds of people talking, whether there is dialogue, whether the speech overlaps with a noisy background, a combination of two or more of the above, etc. Adaptive processing techniques for media data can be implemented at different points in a media processing chain based on the media characteristic descriptions contained in the processing state metadata. Under the techniques described herein, processing status metadata embedded in a media bitstream along with the media material can be authenticated and verified. For example, the techniques described herein help loudness regulatory authorities verify whether a particular program is within a specified range and whether the media material itself has been modified (thereby determining compliance with regulations). A loudness value included in a data segment containing processing status metadata can be read out for this verification, rather than recalculating the loudness. Under the techniques described herein, a data segment containing processing status metadata may include additional reserved bits for securely carrying third-party metadata. This feature can enable a variety of applications. For example, a rating agency (such as Nielsen Media Research) may choose to include a content identification tag that can be used to identify a specific program being watched or listened to in order to calculate viewership or listenership statistics. Importantly, the techniques described herein and their variations ensure that the processing state metadata associated with media materials is preserved throughout the entire media processing chain, from content creation to content consumption. In some feasible embodiments, the apparatus described herein forms part of a media processing system, which includes, but is not limited to, a handheld device, a game console, a television, a laptop, a notebook computer, a cellular wireless telephone, an e-book reader, a retail point of sale, a desktop computer, a computer workstation, an information station, and many other types of terminals and media processing units. Many modifications to the preferred embodiments and the general principles and characteristics described herein should be understood by those skilled in the art. Therefore, this invention should not be limited to the embodiments shown, but should be considered within the broadest scope of the principles and characteristics described herein. 2. Media processing chain Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary media processing chain according to some feasible embodiments of the present invention. The media processing chain may include, but is not limited to, encoders, decoders, pre / post-processing units, transcoders, and signal analysis and metadata correction units. These units in the media processing chain may be included in the same system or different systems. In embodiments where the media processing chain spans multiple different systems, these systems may be configured jointly or geographically distributed. In some feasible embodiments, one of the preprocessing units in FIG1 may accept PCM (temporal domain) samples containing media content as input and output processed PCM samples. An encoder may accept PCM samples as input and encode (e.g., compress) one of the media contents into a media bitstream and output it. As used herein, data that includes media content (e.g., contained in a main stream of a bitstream) is called media data, while data separate from media data that indicates the type of processing performed on media data at any point in the media processing chain is called processing state metadata. A signal analysis and metadata correction unit can accept one or more encoded media bitstreams as input and verify whether the processing status metadata included in the encoded media bitstreams has been corrected by performing signal analysis. If the signal analysis and metadata correction unit finds the included metadata to be invalid, the incorrect value of the signal analysis and metadata correction unit is replaced with the correct value obtained from the signal analysis. A transcoder accepts a media bitstream as input and outputs a modified media bitstream. A decoder accepts a compressed media bitstream as input and outputs a decoded PCM sample stream. A post-processing unit accepts the decoded PCM sample stream as input, performs any post-processing (e.g., volume adjustment of the media content within it), and displays the media content in the decoded PCM sample on one or more speakers and / or display panels. None of the media processing units can process media data that is subject to processing state metadata. The technology described herein provides an enhanced media processing chain in which media processing units, such as encoders, decoders, transcoders, pre- and post-processing units, adapt their respective processing techniques to the media data based on a simultaneous state of the media data received by these media processing units and represented by media processing signals and / or processing state metadata. Figure 2 illustrates an exemplary enhanced media processing chain according to some feasible embodiments of the present invention. The media processing chain includes an encoder, a decoder, pre- / post-processing units, a transcoder, and a signal analysis and metadata correction unit. Some or all of the units in Figure 2 may be modified to adapt media processing based on the state of the media data. In some feasible embodiments, the media processing units in the exemplary enhanced media processing chain are configured to work collaboratively, perform non-redundant media processing, and avoid unnecessary and erroneous repetitive processing already performed by upstream units. In some feasible embodiments, the state of the media data at any point in the enhanced media processing chain from content generation to content consumption can be known by one of the current media processing units at that point in the enhanced media processing chain. 3. Media processing device or unit Figure 3 illustrates an exemplary (modified) encoder / transcoder according to some feasible embodiments of the present invention. Unlike the encoder of Figure 1, the encoder / transcoder of Figure 3 can be configured to receive processing status metadata associated with input media data, and to determine previous (pre- / post-) processing performed on the input media data (e.g., input audio) by one or more upstream units relative to the encoder / transcoder, wherein the modified encoder / transcoder logic receives from an upstream unit (e.g., an upstream unit that has performed its processing on the input audio). As used herein, the term "logical reception" may refer to an intermediate unit communicating input media data from an upstream unit (e.g., a previous upstream unit) to a receiving unit, whether related or unrelated, such as the encoder / transcoder unit in this example. In one example, the upstream unit performing pre / post-processing on the input media data may be in a different system, rather than in a system where the receiving unit is a component. The input media data may be a media bitstream output by the upstream unit and communicated through an intermediate transmission unit (e.g., a network connector, USB, WAN connector, wireless connector, optical connector, etc.). In another example, the upstream unit performing pre / post-processing on the input media data can be in the same system where the receiving unit is a component. The input media data can be output by the upstream unit and communicated via an internal connector of one or more internal units of the system. In either case, under the techniques described herein, the receiving unit can logically receive the input media data from the upstream unit. In some feasible embodiments, the encoder / transcoder is configured to generate or modify processing state metadata associated with media data, which may be a modified version of the input media data. The new or modified processing state metadata generated or modified by the encoder / transcoder can automatically and accurately capture the state of the media data to be further output by the encoder / transcoder along the media processing chain. For example, the processing state metadata may include whether a specific process (e.g., Dolby Volume, Upmixing, commercially available from Dolby Laboratories) is performed on the media data. Furthermore and / or optionally, the processing state metadata may include parameters used in or derived from any constituent operation of a specific processing technique or processing technique. Furthermore and / or optionally, the processing state metadata may include one or more fingerprints calculated / extracted from the media data. Furthermore and / or optionally, the processing state metadata may include one or more different types of media characteristics calculated / extracted from the media data. The media characteristics described herein provide a semantic description of media material and may include one or more of the following: structural properties, including pitch, timbre, rhythm, reference loudness, stereo mixing, or the amount of sound source, presence or absence of sound, repetition features, melody, harmony, lyrics, timbre, perceptual characteristics, digital media characteristics, stereo parameters, speech recognition (e.g., when a speaker is speaking), etc. In some embodiments, the extracted media characteristics are used to classify the media material into one or more of a plurality of media material levels. One or more media material levels may include, but are not limited to, either a single all / primary "level" (e.g., a level type) and / or a single level for the entire media, where a single level represents a smaller time period (e.g., a level subtype for a subset / sub-time interval of the entire), such as a single media frame, a media segment, multiple media characteristics, multiple media segments, fractions of a second, a second, multiple seconds, etc. For example, a rating label can be calculated and inserted into a bitstream and / or hidden every 32 ms (using reversible or irreversible data hiding techniques). A rating label can be used to indicate one or more rating types and / or one or more rating subtypes. In a media data frame, a rating label can be inserted into a metadata structure that supersedes or follows a media data segment associated with the rating label, as shown in Figure 11. Media ratings may include, but are not limited to, a single rating type such as music, speech, noise, silence, or applause. One of the media processing devices described herein can also be configured to classify media rating types such as speech overlay, music, etc. Additionally, or alternatively, one of the media processing devices described herein can also be configured to carry a separate "probability" or probability value for a media rating type or subtype indicated by a calculated media rating label.One or more of these probability or likelihood values ​​may be transmitted along with media class tags in the same metadata structure. A probability or likelihood value represents a degree of "trust," which is the relationship between the calculated media class tag and the media segment / entire media of a media class type or subtype referred to by the calculated media class tag. A combination of one or more of these probability or likelihood values ​​and associated media class tags can be used by a receiving media processing device to adapt media processing to improve various operations in an overall media processing chain, such as upmixing, encoding, decoding, transcoding, headphone effect simulation, etc. Processing status metadata may include, but is not limited to, any of the media class type or subtype, probability or likelihood values. In addition, or alternatively, media class types / subtypes and probability / leverage values ​​in a metadata structure inserted between media (audio) data segments may not be transmitted; instead, some or all media class types / subtypes and probability / leverage values ​​may be embedded and transmitted to a receiving media processing node / device in the media data (or sample), as if they were hidden metadata. In some embodiments, the result of content analysis of media material included in the processing state metadata may include one or more indications as to whether a particular user-defined or system-defined keyword was spoken at any time segment of the media material. One or more applications may use this indication to trigger the performance of related actions (e.g., displaying text advertisements for products and services related to the keyword). In some embodiments, when media is processed by a first processor, one of the devices described herein may operate in parallel with a second processor to classify / capture media characteristics of the media data. Media characteristics may be captured from a duration of time (a frame, multiple frames, one second, multiple seconds, one minute, multiple minutes, a user-defined time period, etc.) or from segments of a continuous scene (based on detectable changes in signal characteristics). Media characteristics described by processing state metadata can be used throughout the entire media processing chain. A downstream device may adapt its own media processing techniques to the media data based on one or more media characteristics. Alternatively, a downstream device may choose to ignore the presence of any or all of the media characteristics described by the processing state metadata. An application on one device in the media processing chain can utilize media features efficiently in one or more different ways. For example, this application can use media features to indicate the following media data. For a user who wants to proceed to a section discussing performance, the application can skip other preceding sections. The media features described in the preceding processing status metadata provide contextual information about the media data to downstream devices as an inherent part of the media data. One or more devices in the media processing chain can perform analysis to extract media characteristics from the content of the media data. This eliminates the need for downstream devices to analyze the content of the media data. In some feasible embodiments, the generated or modified processing state metadata can be transmitted as part of a media bitstream (e.g., an audio bitstream with audio state metadata) at a transmission rate of 3-10 kbps. In some embodiments, the processing state metadata can be transmitted within media data (e.g., a PCM media sample) based on data hiding. Many data hiding techniques that can reversibly or irreversibly alter media data can be used to hide some or all of the processing state metadata (including, but not limited to, authentication-related data) within the media sample. Data hiding can be implemented using a secure communication channel that is either perceptible or imperceptible. Data hiding can be achieved by altering / manipulating / modulating the signal characteristics (a frequency or phase and / or amplitude in the time domain) of a signal in the media sample. Data hiding can be implemented based on FSK, spread spectrum, or other available methods. In some feasible embodiments, a pre- / post-processing unit may cooperate with an encoder / transcoder to perform media data processing. The processing performed by the pre- / post-processing unit is also specified in processing status metadata that communicates with a downstream media processing unit (e.g., via an audio bitstream). In some feasible embodiments, once a segment of processing state metadata (which may include media fingerprints and any parameters used in or derived from one or more types of media processing technologies) is generated, this segment of processing state metadata can be stored by the media processing unit in the media processing chain and communicated to all downstream units. Therefore, in some feasible embodiments, a segment of processing state metadata can be generated by the first media processing unit and transmitted to the previous media processing unit in the media processing chain (throughout its entire lifecycle), such as embedded data within a media bitstream / substream or data that may be derived from an external data source or media processing database. Figure 4 illustrates an exemplary decoder (e.g., an evolution decoder performing the techniques described herein) of one of the feasible embodiments of the present invention. One of the decoders in the feasible embodiments of the present invention can be configured to (1) parse and verify processing status metadata (e.g., a processing history, a description of media characteristics, etc.) associated with incoming media data and other transmitted metadata (e.g., without any processing of the media data, such as third-party data, tracking information, identifiers, proprietary or standard information, user annotation data, user favorites, etc.), and (2) determine the media data processing status of the media data based on the verified processing status metadata. For example, by parsing and verifying the processing status metadata in a media bitstream carrying input media data and processing status metadata (e.g., an audio bitstream with audio status metadata), the decoder can determine that loudness metadata (or media characteristic metadata) is valid and reliable, and generated by one of the enhanced content provider subunits performing the techniques described herein (e.g., a commercially available Dolby Media Generator (DMG) from Dolby Laboratories). In some feasible embodiments, in response to the determination that the received processing state metadata is valid and reliable, the decoder, at least in part based on the received processing state metadata, can be configured to generate media processing signals related to the media data state, using a reversible or irreversible data hiding technique. The decoder can be configured to provide media processing signals to a downstream media processing unit (e.g., a post-processing unit) in the media processing chain. This type of signal can be used, for example, when there is no dedicated (and synchronized) metadata path between the decoder and the downstream media processing unit. This situation may occur in some feasible embodiments where the decoder and the downstream media processing unit exist as separate entities in a consumer electronic device (e.g., PC, mobile phone, set-top box, VCR, etc.), or in different subsystems or different systems, where synchronization control or data paths cannot be achieved between the decoder and the downstream media processing unit. In some feasible embodiments, the media processing signals under the data hiding technique described herein can be transmitted as part of a media bitstream at a transmission rate of 16 bps. Many data hiding techniques that can reversibly or irreversibly alter media data can be used to hide some or all of the processing state metadata in the media sample, including, but not limited to, any of the following methods: a secure communication channel that can be perceived or not; a change / manipulation / modulation of the narrowband or spread spectrum signal characteristics (phase and / or amplitude in a frequency or time domain) of one or more signals in the media sample; or any other available method. In some feasible embodiments, the decoder does not attempt to transmit all received processing status metadata; instead, the decoder may embed only sufficient information (e.g., within the data hiding limit) based on the state of the media data to change the operating mode of the downstream media processing unit. In some feasible embodiments, redundancy in audio or video signals within media data can be used to convey the state of the media data. In some feasible embodiments, some or all media processing signals and / or processing state metadata can be hidden in the least significant bits (LSBs) of a plurality of bits within the media data, or hidden in a secure communication channel carried within the media data, without generating any audible or visible human artifacts. The plurality of bits can be selected based on one or more factors or criteria, including whether the LSBs generate perceptible or visible human artifacts when a media sample with hidden data is presented by a conventional media processing unit. Other data hiding techniques that can reversibly or irreversibly alter media data (e.g., perceptible or imperceptible secure communication channels, FSK, basic data hiding techniques, etc.) can be used to hide some or all of the processing state metadata within the media sample. In some feasible embodiments, data hiding techniques may be optional and may not be necessary, for example, if the downstream media processing unit is implemented as part of a decoder. For example, two or more media processing units may share a bus and other communication mechanisms that allow metadata transmission as out-of-band signals without hiding data in media samples between media processing units. Figure 5 illustrates an exemplary post-processing unit (e.g., a Dolby Evolution post-processing unit) according to some feasible embodiments of the present invention. The post-processing unit can be configured to first capture media processing signals (e.g., PCM audio samples with embedded information) hidden within media data to determine the media data state indicated by the media processing signals. This can be achieved, for example, by an auxiliary processing unit (e.g., an information capture and audio restoration subunit in some feasible embodiments, wherein the media data contains audio). In embodiments where the media processing signals are hidden using a reversible data hiding technique, previous modifications performed on the media data using data hiding techniques (e.g., a decoder) to embed the media processing signals may not be performed. In embodiments where the media processing signals are hidden using an irreversible data hiding technique, previous modifications performed on the media data using data hiding techniques (e.g., a decoder) to embed the media processing signals cannot be completely omitted, but the negative impact on media presentation quality can be minimized (e.g., minimizing audio or visual artifacts). Subsequently, based on the media data state indicated by the media processing signals, the post-processing unit can be configured to adapt its processing to the media data. In one example, volume processing can be triggered by a decision made by an upstream unit (from a media processing signal) that loudness metadata is valid and volume processing is disconnected. In another example, a text advertisement or message can be presented or triggered by a sound-recognized keyword. In some feasible embodiments, a signal analysis and metadata correction unit in a media processing system described herein may be configured to accept an encoded media bitstream as input and verify the correctness of embedded metadata in the media bitstream by performing signal analysis. After verifying the presence or absence of embedded metadata in the media bitstream, correction may be applied as needed. In some feasible embodiments, the signal analysis and metadata correction unit may be configured to perform analysis on the media data or samples encoded in the input media bitstream in the time and / or frequency domains to determine the media characteristics of the media data. After determining the media characteristics, corresponding processing status metadata (e.g., descriptions of one or more media data) may be generated and provided to downstream devices relative to the signal analysis and metadata correction unit. In some feasible embodiments, the signal analysis and metadata correction unit may be integrated with one or more other media processing units in one or more media processing systems. Furthermore and / or optionally, the signal analysis and metadata correction unit can be configured to hide media processing signals in the media data and send signals to a downstream unit (encoder / transcoder / decoder), i.e., the embedded metadata in the media data is effective and has been successfully verified. In some feasible embodiments, signal data and / or processing status metadata associated with the media data can be generated and embedded in a compressed media bitstream carrying the media data. Therefore, the techniques described herein ensure that different processing blocks or media processing units (e.g., encoders, transcoders, decoders, pre- and post-processing units, etc.) in an enhanced media processing chain can determine the media data state. Thus, each media processing unit can adapt its processing based on the media data state indicated by the upstream unit. Furthermore, one or more reversible or irreversible data hiding techniques can be used to determine that signal information related to the media data state can be provided to downstream media processing units in an efficient manner, with minimal bit transfer rate required to transmit the signal information to the downstream media processing units. This is particularly advantageous when there is no metadata path between an upstream unit (e.g., a decoder) and a downstream unit (e.g., a post-processing unit), for example, where the post-processing unit is not part of the decoder. In some feasible embodiments, the encoder may be enhanced using or including a preprocessing and metadata verification subunit. In some feasible embodiments, the preprocessing and metadata verification subunit may be configured to determine whether the encoder performs adaptive processing of the media data based on the media data state indicated by media processing signals and / or processing status metadata. In some feasible embodiments, through the preprocessing and metadata verification subunit, the encoder may be configured to verify processing status metadata associated with the media data (e.g., as it is included in a media bitstream). For example, if the metadata is verified to be reliable, the result of a media processing type performed can be reused and new performance of that media processing type can be avoided. On the other hand, if the metadata is found to be tampered with, the media processing type allegedly previously performed can be repeated by the encoder. In some feasible embodiments, once the processing status metadata (including media processing signals and fingerprint-based metadata retrieval) is found to be unreliable, other media processing types can be performed on the metadata by the encoder. If the processed status metadata is determined to be valid (e.g., based on a match between an extracted password value and a reference password value), the encoder can also be configured to transmit signals to other media processing units in an enhanced media processing chain where the processed status metadata (e.g., present in the media bitstream) is valid. Any, some, or all of many methods can be implemented by the encoder. Under a first method, the encoder may embed a flag (e.g., an "evolution flag") into an encoded media bitstream indicating that verification of processing state metadata has been performed on this encoded media bitstream. The flag may be embedded in such a way that its presence does not affect a "legacy" media processing unit, such as a decoder not configured to process and use the processing state metadata described herein. In an exemplary embodiment, an Audio Compression-3 (AC-3) encoder may be enhanced by a preprocessing and metadata verification subunit to set an "evolution flag" in the xbsi2 field of an AC-3 media bitstream, as shown in the ATSC specification (e.g., ATSC A / 52b). This "bit" may exist in every encoded frame carried in the AC-3 media bitstream and may not be used. In some feasible embodiments, the presence of this flag in the xbsi2 field does not affect a "legacy" decoder not configured to process and use the processing state metadata described herein. Under the first method, there may be issues with verifying information in the xbsi2 domain. For example, an upstream unit (e.g., malicious) could "connect" the xbsi2 domain without actually verifying the processing status data, and could incorrectly transmit signals to other downstream units that have valid processing status data. To avoid this problem, some embodiments of the present invention may use a second method. A secure data hiding method (including, but not limited to, any of a variety of data hiding methods that generate a secure communication channel within their media data, such as spread spectrum, FSK, and other secure communication channel methods) may be used to embed an "evolution flag". This security method is configured to prevent the "evolution flag" from being transmitted in plaintext and from being vulnerable to intentional or unintentional attacks by an entity or intruder. Instead, in the second method, a downstream unit may retrieve the hidden data in an encrypted form. Through a decryption and verification subroutine, the downstream unit may verify the correctness of the hidden data and trust the "evolution flag" in the hidden data. As a result, the downstream unit may determine that the processing status metadata in the media bitstream has been successfully verified previously. In many embodiments, any part of the processing status metadata (e.g., the "evolution flag") in any of one or more encryption methods (HMAC or non-HMAC) may be transmitted from an upstream unit to the downstream unit. In some feasible embodiments, the media data may initially be a simple traditional media bitstream, such as containing PCM samples. However, once the media data is processed by one or more media processing units as described herein, the processing state metadata generated by the one or more media processing units includes the state of the media data and more detailed information that can be used to decode the media data (including, but not limited to, any one or more media characteristics determined from the media data). In some feasible embodiments, the generated processing state metadata may include media fingerprints (e.g., video fingerprints), loudness metadata, dynamic range metadata, one or more Hash Message Authentication Codes (HMACs), one or more dialogue channels, audio fingerprints, enumerated processing history, audio loudness, dialogue loudness, true peak, sample peak, and / or metadata specified by any user (third party). The processing state metadata may include an "evolutionary data block". As used herein, the term "enhanced" refers to the ability of a media processing unit to work with other media processing units using the techniques described herein, or the ability to work with other media processing systems using the techniques described herein that allow for adaptive processing techniques based on media data states set by upstream units. The term "evolutionary" refers to the ability of a media processing unit to coordinate with traditional media processing units or traditional media processing systems using the techniques described herein, and the ability to work with other media processing units or other media processing systems using the techniques described herein that allow for adaptive processing techniques based on media data states set by upstream units. In some feasible embodiments, one of the media processing units described herein may receive media data on which one or more types of media processing have been performed, but the metadata associated with the media data is absent or insufficient. In some feasible embodiments, this media processing unit may be configured to generate processing status metadata to indicate one or more types of media processing performed by other upstream units relative to the media processing unit. Feature extraction not yet completed by the upstream device may also be performed and the processing status metadata forwarded to the downstream device. In some feasible embodiments, the media processing unit (e.g., an evolution encoder / transcoder) may include a media forensics analysis subunit. The media forensics analysis subunit (e.g., an audio forensics subunit) may be configured to determine whether a certain type of processing technique has been performed on a piece of media content or media data (without any received metadata). The analysis subunit may be configured to search for specified signal processing artifacts / traces introduced and left by a certain type of processing technique. The media forensics analysis subunit may also be configured to determine whether a certain type of feature extraction has been performed on a piece of media content or media data. The analysis subunit can be configured to query the specified existence of characteristic metadata. For the purposes of this invention, the media forensics analysis subunit described herein can be implemented by any media processing unit in a media processing chain. Furthermore, the processing status metadata generated by a media processing unit through the media forensics analysis subunit can be transmitted to a downstream unit in the media processing chain. In some feasible embodiments, the processing state metadata described herein may include additional reserved bits for supporting third-party applications. The additional reserved bits may be secured by configuring a separate key to ensure that plaintext is carried within one or more fields of the reserved bits. Embodiments of the present invention support new applications including content recognition and tracking. In one example, media with Nielsen ratings may carry an identifier specifically for a program in a (media) bitstream. Nielsen ratings can then use this unique identifier to calculate statistics on program viewers or listeners. In another example, this reserved bit may carry a keyword for a search engine (e.g., Google). Google can then associate ads based on the keyword included in one or more fields of the reserved bit carrying the keyword. For the purposes of this invention, in the applications described herein, the techniques herein can be used to ensure the security of reserved bits and prevent decryption by anyone other than a third party designated to use one or more fields of the reserved bits. The processing state metadata described within this paper can be associated with the media data in any of many ways. In some feasible embodiments, the processing state metadata may be inserted into an outbound compressed media bit stream loaded with media data. In some embodiments, the metadata is inserted in one fashion to favor maintaining compatibility with a subsequent conventional decoder that is unconfigured to perform adaptive processing techniques based on the processing state metadata within this paper. 4. Demonstration of adaptive processing techniques for media data 6 reveals an exemplary embodiment of an encoder / transcoder according to some feasible embodiments of the present invention. Any one of the components may be implemented as one or more processes and / or one or more IC circuits (including ASICs, FPGAs, etc.) in a hardware, software, or combination of hardware and software. The encoder / transcoder may contain a number of conventional subunits, such as a front-end decoder (FED), a back-end decoder (full mode), a DRC generator (DRC Gen), a back-end encoder (BEE), a filler, a CRC regenerative unit, and so on. By resorting to these conventional subunits, the encoder / transcoder can convert a bit stream (which, for example, may be but is not limited to AC-3) into another bit stream comprising one or more types of media processing technology (which, for example, may be, but is not limited to, E AC-3 with adaptive and automatic loudness processing). However, media processing techniques (e.g., loudness processing) can be performed regardless of whether the loudness processing has been performed in advance, and / or whether the media data in the input bitstream contains the results of that prior loudness processing, and / or whether the processing state metadata is in the input bitstream. Therefore, an encoder / transcoder with only conventional subunit performs erroneous or unnecessary media processing. Under the techniques described herein, in some feasible embodiments, as shown in Figure 6 , the encoder / transcoder may comprise any one of a plurality of new subunits, such as a media data parser / validator (which, for example, may be, but is not limited to, an AC-3 flag parser and validator), ancillary media processing (e.g., adaptive transition domain real-time loudness and dynamic range controller, signal analysis, characteristics retrieval, etc.), media fingerprint generation (e.g., soundprint generation), metadata generators (e.g., evolutionary data generators and / or other metadata generators), media processing signal insertion (e.g., "add_bsi" insertion or insertion into auxiliary data domains), HMAC generators (which can be digitally signed to one or more, or even all frames to prevent tampering by malicious or traditional individuals), one or more other types of cryptographic processing units, one or more switches that operate based on processing status signals and / or processing status metadata (e.g., the loudness flag "state" received from the flag parser and validator, or the flag used for media characteristics), and so on. Furthermore, user input (e.g., user target object loudness / dialogue normalization) and / or other inputs (e.g., from a video fingerprinting process) and / or other metadata inputs (e.g., one or more types of third-party data, identifiers, proprietary or standard information, user annotation data, user favorite data, etc.) may be received by the encoder / transcoder. As shown, the measured loudness and dynamic range values ​​for dialogue, with and without gates can also be inserted into the evolutionary data generator. Other media characteristics about the information can also be injected into one of the processing units described within this paper to generate a portion of the processing state metadata. In one or more of some feasible embodiments, the processing state metadata described herein is loaded in accordance with ATSC A / 52b in the "add_bsi" domain specified in Enhanced AC-3 (E AC-3), or as described herein in one or more auxiliary data domains in a one-media bit stream. In some feasible embodiments, the processing state metadata loading in the domains does not produce a negative impact on the size and / or bit transfer rate of the compressed media bit streaming frame. In some feasible embodiments, the processing state metadata may be included within a separate or dependent substream associated with the main program media bitstream. The advantage of this method lies in the configuration that the bit transfer rate used to encode the media data (carried by the main program media bit stream) is not affected. If the processing state meta data is loaded as part of the encoded message frame, the bits configured to encode the audio information can be reduced such that the compressed media bit streaming frame size and / or bit transfer rate can be invariant. For example, the processing state metadata can include a one-reduced data transfer rate representation and the use of a low data transfer rate of 10kbps to be transmitted between the medium processing units. Therefore media data (e.g., audio samples) can be encoded at a lower transmission rate of 10kbps to facilitate the adaptive processing of state metadata. In some feasible embodiments, at least a portion of the processing state metadata can be embedded into media data (or samples) using reversible or irreversible data hiding techniques. An advantage of this method is that the media samples and metadata can be received by downstream devices in the same bitstream. In some feasible embodiments, processing status metadata can be stored in a media processing database linked to the fingerprint. A media processing unit located downstream of an upstream unit (e.g., an encoder / transcoder that generates processing status metadata) can generate a fingerprint from received media data and subsequently use the fingerprint as a key for querying the media processing database. After the processing status metadata is located in the database, a data block containing processing status metadata associated with (or used by) the received media data can be retrieved from the media processing database and used by downstream media processing units. The fingerprint used herein may include, but is not limited to, any one or more generators that generate media fingerprints to indicate media characteristics. In some feasible embodiments, a data block containing processing state metadata may include a cryptographic hash (HMAC) for processing the state metadata and / or the underlying media data. Since the data block is assumed to be digitally signed in these embodiments, a downstream media processing unit can more easily authenticate and verify the processing state metadata. Other cryptographic methods, including but not limited to one or more non-HMAC cryptographic methods, may be used for the secure transmission and reception of processing state metadata and / or the underlying media data. As previously described, a media processing unit (e.g., one of the encoders / transcoders described herein) can be configured to accept "traditional" media bitstreams and PCM samples. If the input media bitstream is a traditional media bitstream, the media processing unit can check for an evolution flag, which may be present in the media bitstream or hidden within the media data via one of the enhanced "traditional" encoders and metadata verification logic, including preprocessing. In the absence of an evolution flag, the encoder is configured to perform adaptive processing techniques and appropriately generate processing state metadata in an output media bitstream or in a data block containing processing state metadata. For example, as shown in Figure 6, if there is no "evolution flag" in the input or source media bitstream, an exemplary unit (e.g., a conversion domain real-time loudness and dynamic range controller) can adaptively process the audio content in its received input media data and automatically adjust the loudness and dynamic range. Furthermore, optionally or alternatively, another unit can use characteristic metadata to perform adaptive processing techniques. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 6, the encoder can know the type of media processing technique (e.g., loudness domain processing technique) performed before / after processing and thus generate processing state metadata in a data block, which includes specified parameters used and / or derived in the loudness domain processing technique. In some feasible embodiments, the encoder can generate processing state metadata reflecting the processing history on the media content as long as it knows the type of processing technique performed on the media content. Furthermore, optionally or alternatively, the encoder can perform adaptive processing techniques based on one or more media characteristics described by the processing state metadata. Furthermore, optionally or alternatively, the encoder can perform media analysis to generate a description of one of the media characteristics as part of the processing state metadata to be provided to any other processing unit. In some feasible embodiments, a decoder using the techniques described herein can understand the state of media data in the following situations. In the first scenario, if the decoder receives a media bitstream and has an "evolution flag" set to indicate the validity of processing status metadata in the media bitstream, the decoder can parse and / or retrieve the processing status metadata and signal a downstream media processing unit (e.g., an appropriate post-processing unit). Alternatively, if the "evolution flag" is absent, the decoder can signal a downstream media processing unit that, like the loudness metadata, should still perform volume adjustment, such as those already included in the processing status metadata in some feasible embodiments, which have already performed volume adjustment processing and are neither present nor considered valid. In the second scenario, if the decoder receives a media bitstream generated and encoded by an upstream media processing unit (e.g., an evolutionary encoder with a cryptographic hash), the decoder can parse and retrieve the cryptographic hash from a data block containing processing state metadata, and use the cryptographic hash to verify the received media bitstream and associated metadata. For example, if the decoder finds that associated metadata (e.g., loudness metadata in the processing state metadata) is valid based on a match between a reference cryptographic hash and the cryptographic hash received from the data block, the decoder can signal to a downstream media processing unit (e.g., a volume adjustment unit) to transmit media data (e.g., unchanged). Furthermore, alternatively or alternatively, other types of cryptographic techniques can be used to replace a cryptographic hash-based method. Additionally, alternatively or alternatively, operations other than volume adjustment can also be performed based on one or more media characteristics of the media data as described in the processing state metadata. In the third scenario, if the decoder receives a media bitstream generated by an upstream media processing unit (e.g., an evolutionary encoder), but a data block containing processing state metadata is not included in the media bitstream; instead, the data block is stored in a media processing database. The decoder can be configured to generate a fingerprint of the media data in the media bitstream (e.g., audio) and subsequently use the fingerprint to query the media processing database. The media processing database can then send back the appropriate data block associated with the received media data based on the fingerprint match. In some feasible embodiments, the encoded media bitstream contains a simple Global Resource Locator (URL) to instruct the decoder to send the aforementioned fingerprint query to the media processing database. In all these scenarios, the decoder is configured to understand the state of the media and signal a downstream processing unit so that subsequent processing of the media data can be adapted accordingly. In some feasible embodiments, the media data herein can be re-encoded after decoding. In some feasible embodiments, a data block containing concurrent processing state information equivalent to the re-encoding can be sent to a downstream processing unit after the decoder, such as an encoder / converter. For example, the data block can be included as associated metadata in the media bitstream sent from the decoder. Figure 7 illustrates an exemplary evolutionary decoder control mode in which a volume adjustment unit according to some feasible embodiments of the present invention operates based on the effectiveness of processing state metadata and / or associated loudness metadata. Other operating modes (e.g., characteristic processing techniques) may also be performed. Any of the components may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software as one or more processes and / or one or more IC circuits (including ASICs, FPGAs). A decoder may contain numerous traditional subunits, such as a frame information module (e.g., a frame information module in AC-3, MPEG AAC, MPEG HE AAC, E AC-3, etc.), a front-end decoder (e.g., FED in AC-3, MPEG AAC, MPEG HE AAC, E AC-3, etc.), synchronization and conversion (e.g., synchronization and conversion modules in AC-3, MPEG AAC, MPEG HE AAC, E AC-3, etc.), a frame group buffer, a back-end decoder (e.g., BED in AC-3, MPEG AAC, MPEG HE AAC, E AC-3, etc.), a back-end encoder (e.g., BEE in AC-3, MPEG AAC, MPEG HE AAC, E AC-3, etc.), CRC regeneration, media rendering (e.g., Dolby Volume), etc. Through these traditional subunits, the decoder can deliver media content from media data to a downstream media processing unit and / or render media content. However, the decoder cannot deliver the status of the media data or provide media processing signals and / or processing status metadata in the output bitstream. Under the techniques described herein, in some feasible embodiments, as shown in Figure 7, the decoder may include any of a plurality of new subunits, such as metadata processing (evolutionary data and / or other metadata inputs, including one or more types of third-party data, tracking information, identifiers, proprietary or standard information, user annotation data, user favorites data, feature extraction, feature processing, etc.), security (e.g., tamper-proofing), communication for processing state information (HMAC generator and signature verifier, other cryptographic techniques), media fingerprinting (e.g., audio and video fingerprinting), and auxiliary media processing (e.g., voice channel / sound). This includes information on the degree of data processing, other types of media characteristics, data hiding (e.g., destructive / irreversible or reversible PCM data hiding), media processing signal insertion, HMAC generators (which may include, for example, "add_bsi" insertion, or insertion into one or more auxiliary data fields), other cryptographic techniques, hidden data recovery and verification (e.g., hidden PCM data recovery and verification), "cancel" data hiding, one or more switches operating based on media processing signals and / or processing status metadata (e.g., evolution data "valid" and data hiding insertion control from an HMAC generator and signature verifier), etc. As shown in the figure, the information and audio and video fingerprints captured by the HMAC generator and signature verifier can be output to or used for audio and video synchronization correction, evaluation, media rights, quality control, media positioning processes, characteristic processing, etc. In some feasible embodiments, post / preprocessing units in a media processing chain do not operate independently. Instead, post / preprocessing units may interact with an encoder or a decoder in the media processing chain. In the case of interacting with an encoder, the post / preprocessing unit may assist in generating at least a portion of processing state metadata related to the state of media data in a data block. In the case of interacting with a decoder, the post / preprocessing unit is configured to determine the state of media data and to adapt media data processing accordingly. In one example, as shown in FIG7, an exemplary post / preprocessing unit (e.g., a volume adjustment unit) may retrieve hidden data in a PCM sample transmitted by an upstream decoder and determine, based on the hidden data, whether loudness metadata is valid. If the loudness metadata is valid, the input media data (e.g., audio) may be transmitted unchanged through the volume adjustment unit. In another example, an exemplary post / preprocessing unit may retrieve hidden data in a PCM sample transmitted by an upstream decoder and determine, based on the hidden data, one or more types of media characteristics previously determined from the content of the media sample. If a voice recognition keyword is specified, the post / preprocessing unit can perform one or more specific operations related to the voice recognition keyword. 5. Data Hiding Figure 8 illustrates an exemplary configuration of using data hiding to transmit media processing information according to some feasible embodiments of the present invention. In some feasible embodiments, when there is no metadata path between upstream and downstream media processing units, data hiding can be used to enable signal transmission between an upstream media processing unit (e.g., an evolution encoder or decoder (e.g., audio processing #1)) and a downstream media processing unit (e.g., a post / pre-processing unit (e.g., audio processing #2)). In some feasible embodiments, reversible media data hiding (e.g., reversible audio data hiding) can be used to modify a media data sample (e.g., X) in media data into a modified media data sample (e.g., X'), which carries media processing signals and / or processing status metadata between two media processing units. In some feasible embodiments, the modification of the media data sample described herein is performed without causing perceptual degradation. Therefore, even if there is no other media processing unit after media processing unit 1, there are no audible or visible artificial artifacts that the modified media data sample can perceive. In other words, when the audio and video in the modified media data sample are presented, hiding the media processing signals and / or processing status metadata in a non-perceptible manner does not cause any artificial audio or video artifacts. In some feasible embodiments, a media processing unit (e.g., audio processing unit #2 in FIG8) retrieves media processing signals and / or processing status metadata from a modified media data sample, and restores the modified media data sample to the original media data sample by canceling the modification. This can be accomplished, for example, through a subunit (e.g., information retrieval and audio recovery). The retrieved embedded information can then be used as a signaling mechanism between two media processing units (e.g., audio processing units #1 and #2 in FIG8). The robustness of the data hiding techniques described herein can depend on the type of processing that can be performed by the media processing units. One example of media processing unit #1 could be a digital decoder in a set-top box, and one example of media processing unit #2 could be a volume adjustment unit in the same set-top box. If the decoder determines that the loudness metadata is valid, the decoder can use a reversible data hiding technique to signal the subsequent volume adjustment unit not to apply any adjustment. In some feasible embodiments, an irreversible media data hiding technique (e.g., irreversible secure communication channel-based data hiding technology) can be used to modify a media data sample (e.g., X) in media data into a modified media data sample (e.g., X'), which carries media processing signals and / or processing status metadata between two media processing units. In some feasible embodiments, the modification of the media data sample described herein is performed with minimal perceptible degradation of the modification result. Therefore, very few audible or visible human-caused artifacts are perceptible to the modified media data sample. In other words, when the audio and video in the modified media data sample are presented, hiding the media processing signals and / or processing status metadata in a non-perceptible manner results in minimal audio or video human-caused artifacts. In some feasible embodiments, the modified media data sample will not be canceled and the original media data sample will be restored through irreversible data hiding. 6. Demonstration Process Figures 9A and 9B illustrate an exemplary flow according to one feasible embodiment of the present invention. In some feasible embodiments, one or more computing devices or units in a media processing system may execute this flow. In block 910 of Figure 9A, a first device in a media processing chain (such as an enhanced media processing chain described herein) determines whether a type of media processing has been performed on an output form of media data. The first device may be part or all of a media processing unit. In block 920, in response to the determination that a media processing type has been performed on an output form of media data, the first device may generate a state of the media data. In some feasible embodiments, the state of the media data may specify the media processing type, the result of which is included in the output form of the media data. The first device may communicate the output form of the media data and the media data state to a second device downstream in the media processing chain, for example, in an output media bitstream, or in an auxiliary metadata bitstream associated with a separate media bitstream carrying an input form of media data. In some feasible embodiments, media materials include media content as one or more of the following: audio content only, video content only, or a combination of audio and video content. In some feasible embodiments, the first device may provide media data status to the second device as one or more of the following: (a) media fingerprint, (b) processing status metadata, or (c) media processing signal. In some feasible embodiments, the first device may store a media processing data block in a media processing database. The media processing data block may contain media processing metadata, and the media processing data block may be retrieved based on one or more media fingerprints associated with the media processing data block. In some feasible embodiments, the media data status includes a cryptographic hash value encrypted with credential information. The cryptographic hash value can be authenticated by a recipient device. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the media data state includes one or more secure communication channels hidden within the media data, and one or more of these secure communication channels are authenticated by a recipient device. In one exemplary embodiment, the one or more secure communication channels include at least one spread spectrum secure communication channel. In one exemplary embodiment, the one or more secure communication channels include at least one frequency shift keying secure communication channel. In some feasible embodiments, the media data status includes one or more sets of parameters that are used and / or derived from the media processing type. In some feasible embodiments, at least one of the first or second device includes a preprocessing unit, an encoder, a media processing subunit, a transcoder, a decoder, a post-processing unit, or a media content presentation subunit. In an exemplary embodiment, the first device is an encoder (e.g., an AVC encoder), and the second device is a decoder (e.g., an AVC decoder). In some feasible embodiments, the processing type is performed by the first device, while in other feasible embodiments, the processing type is performed by an upstream device in the media processing chain opposite to the first device. In some feasible embodiments, the first device may receive one input form of media data. The input form of media data includes any media data state indicating a media processing type. In these embodiments, the first device may analyze the input form of media data to determine the type of media processing that has been performed on the input form of media data. In some feasible embodiments, the first device encodes the loudness and dynamic range of the media data state. In some feasible embodiments, the first device may adaptively avoid executing a media processing type already performed by an upstream device. However, even if a media processing type has been executed, the first device may receive an instruction to skip the media processing type executed by the upstream device. Instead, the first device may be instructed to still execute the media processing type, for example, using the same or different parameters. The media data status communicating from the first device to a downstream second device in the media processing chain may include an output form of the media data, which includes the result of the media processing type executed by the first device under the instruction and a media data status indicating that the media processing type has been executed in the output form of the media data. In many feasible embodiments, the first device may receive instructions from one or more of the following: (a) user input, (b) a system configuration of the first device, (c) a signal issued from a device outside the first device, or (d) a signal issued from a subunit within the first device. In some embodiments, media data status includes at least a portion of status metadata hidden in one or more secure communication channels. In some embodiments, the first device modifies a plurality of bits in the media data to store at least a portion of the state of the media data. In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second devices includes one or more of the Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) codec, the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) codec, the Audio Codec 3 (AC-3) codec, and the Enhanced AC-3 codec. In some embodiments, the media processing chain includes: a preprocessing unit configured to receive a time-domain sample including media content as input and to output a processed time-domain sample; an encoder configured to output a compressed media bitstream of the media content based on the processed time-domain sample; a signal analysis and metadata correction unit configured to verify the processing state metadata in the compressed media bitstream; a transcoder configured to modify the compressed media bitstream; a decoder configured to output a decoded time-domain sample based on the compressed media bitstream; and a post-processing unit configured to perform post-processing on the media content in the decoded time-domain sample. In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second devices includes the preprocessing unit, the signal analysis and metadata correction unit, the transcoder, the decoder, and the post-processing unit. In some embodiments, at least one of the preprocessing unit, the signal analysis and metadata correction unit, the transcoder, the decoder, and the post-processing unit performs adaptive processing techniques on the media content based on processed metadata received from an upstream device. In some embodiments, the first device determines one or more media characteristics from the media data, and includes one or more media characteristics indicating the state of the media data. The one or more media characteristics may include at least one media characteristic determined from one or more of the following: frame, second, minute, user-defined time interval, context, song, music clip, and recording. The one or more media characteristics include one semantic description of the media data. In many embodiments, the one or more media characteristics include one or more of the following: structural properties, pitch including harmony and melody, timbre, rhythm, loudness, stereo mixing, sound source quantity of the media data, presence or absence of sound, repetition features, melody, harmony, lyrics, timbre, perceptual characteristics, digital media characteristics, stereo parameters, and one or more portions of the speech content. In block 950 of Figure 9B, a first device in a media processing chain (such as an enhanced media processing chain described herein) determines whether a type of media processing has been performed on an input form of media data. In block 960, in response to the determination that a media processing type has been executed on the input form of the media data, the first device adapts the media data processing to stop the execution of the media processing type in the first device. In some feasible embodiments, the first device may disconnect one or more media processing types based on the input state of the media data. In some feasible embodiments, the first device can communicate an output format of media data and a status of media data to a second device downstream in the media processing chain, wherein the media data status indicates that a media processing type has been performed in the output format of the media data. In some feasible embodiments, the first device can encode the loudness and dynamic range of the media data state. In some feasible embodiments, the first device can automatically perform one or more adaptive loudness or dynamic range audio processes, at least in part, based on whether the processing type has already been performed on the input form of the media data. In some feasible embodiments, the first device may perform a second different type of media processing on the media data. The first device may communicate an output format of the media data and a status of the media data to a second device downstream in the media processing chain, the media data status indicating that the media processing type and the second different type of media processing have been performed in the output format of the media data. In some feasible embodiments, the first device may retrieve an input state of media data associated with an input format of the media data. In some feasible embodiments, the input state of the media data is carried along with the media data input format in an input media bitstream. In some feasible embodiments, the first device may extract the input state of the media data from data units in the media data that encode the media content. The input state of the media data may be hidden in one or more data units. In some feasible embodiments, the first device can restore one of the data units that does not contain a media data input state, and present media content based on the format of the data unit that has not yet been restored. In some feasible embodiments, the first device may authenticate the media data input state by verifying a password hash value associated with the media data input state. In some embodiments, the first device authenticates the media data input state by verifying one or more fingerprints associated with the media data input state, wherein at least one of the one or more fingerprints is generated based on at least a portion of the media data. In some embodiments, the first device verifies media data by verifying one or more fingerprints associated with the media data input state, wherein at least one of the one or more fingerprints is generated based on at least a portion of the media data. In some feasible embodiments, the first device may receive an input state of media data as described in the processing state metadata. The first device may generate a media processing signal based at least in part on the processing state metadata. The media processing signal may indicate the input state of the media data, even if the media processing signal may be a smaller data amount than the processing state metadata and / or require a low bit transfer rate. The first device may transmit the media processing signal to a media processing device downstream of the first device in the media processing chain. In some feasible embodiments, the media processing signal is hidden in one or more data units in an output form of the media data using a reversible data hiding technique, such that modifications to the media data can be removed by a recipient device. In some embodiments, the media processing signal is hidden in one or more data units in an output form of the media data using an irreversible data hiding technique, such that at least one of the modifications to the media data cannot be removed by a recipient device. In some embodiments, the first device determines one or more media characteristics based on one or more media characteristics described in the media data state. The one or more media characteristics may include at least one media characteristic determined from one or more of the following: frame, second, minute, user-defined time interval, scene, song, music clip, and recording. The one or more media characteristics include a semantic description of the media data. In some embodiments, the first device performs one or more specified operations in response to determining one or more media characteristics. In some feasible embodiments, a method is provided comprising: calculating one or more data transfer rate reduction representations of a source frame of media data by means of a first device in a media processing chain; and simultaneously and securely transmitting the one or more data transfer rate reduction representations to a second device in the media processing chain while the media data itself is in a state; wherein the method is performed by means of one or more computing devices. In some feasible embodiments, a reduction in data transfer rate indicates that the data is carried in at least one of a substream, a reserved field, an add_bsi field, an auxiliary data field, or a conversion coefficient. In some feasible embodiments, one or more data transfer rate reductions indicate the inclusion of synchronization data for synchronizing audio and video transmitted within media data. In some feasible embodiments, a reduction in data transfer rate indicates the inclusion of a media fingerprint, which is (a) generated by a media processing unit and (b) embedded with media data used for quality monitoring, media evaluation, media tracking, or content search. In some feasible embodiments, the method further includes using at least one of one or more computing devices in a media processing chain to calculate and transmit a cryptographic hash value based on media data and / or media data states within one or more coded bit streams carrying media data. In some feasible embodiments, the method further includes: authenticating a password hash value by a recipient device; determining whether the media data status is valid by the recipient device, and sending a signal to one or more downstream media processing units; and in response to the determination of whether the media data status is valid, the recipient device sending a media data status signal to one or more downstream media processing units. In some feasible embodiments, the cryptographic hash value representing the state of the media and / or media data is carried in at least one of a substream, one or more reserved fields, an add_bsi field, one or more auxiliary data fields, or one or more transformation coefficients. In some feasible embodiments, a method is provided comprising: adaptively processing an input form of media data using one or more computing devices in a media processing chain, based on past history of loudness processing of media data by one or more upstream media processing units indicated by a media data state, the media processing chain including one or more of a psychoacoustic unit, a converter, a waveform / spatial audio encoding unit, an encoder, a decoder, a transcoder, or a streaming processor; and normalizing the loudness and / or dynamic range of an output form of the media data at the end of the media processing chain to a consistent loudness and / or dynamic range value. In some feasible embodiments, a consistent loudness value includes one of the following: (1) a loudness value controlled or selected by a user or (2) a state-adaptive signal sent from one of the input forms of media material. In some feasible embodiments, the loudness value is calculated on the dialogue (speech) portion of the media material. In some feasible embodiments, the loudness value is calculated on the absolute, relative, and / or gateless portions of the media material. In some feasible embodiments, the consistent dynamic range value includes one of the following loudness values: (1) controlled or selected by a user or (2) a state-adaptive signal transmitted from one input form of media material. In some feasible embodiments, the dynamic range value is calculated on the dialogue (voice) portion of the media material. In some feasible embodiments, the dynamic range value is calculated over the absolute, relative, and / or gateless portions of the media data. In some feasible embodiments, the method further includes: calculating one or more loudness and / or dynamic range gain control values ​​to normalize the output form of the media data to a consistent loudness value and a consistent dynamic range; simultaneously loading one or more loudness and / or dynamic range gain control values ​​in a state of the output form of the media data at the end of the media processing chain, wherein one or more loudness and / or dynamic range gain control values ​​can be used by another device to reversibly apply one or more loudness and / or dynamic range gain control values ​​to restore one of the original loudness values ​​and one of the original dynamic ranges in the input form of the media data. In some feasible embodiments, one or more loudness and / or dynamic range gain control values ​​representing the output form of media data are carried in at least one of a substream, one or more reserved domains, an add_bsi domain, one or more auxiliary data domains, or one or more conversion coefficients. In some feasible embodiments, a method is provided comprising: using one or more computing devices in a media processing chain to perform one of the insertion, retrieval or editing of relevant and irrelevant media data locations and / or the state of one of relevant and irrelevant media data locations within one or more coded bit streams, the media processing chain including one or more of a psychoacoustic unit, a converter, a waveform / spatial audio coding unit, an encoder, a decoder, a transcoder or a stream processor. In some feasible embodiments, the state of one or more related and unrelated media data positions and / or related and unrelated media data positions within the encoded bit stream is carried in at least one of a substream, one or more reserved fields, an add_bsi field, one or more auxiliary data fields, or one or more transformation coefficients. In some feasible embodiments, a method is provided comprising: using one or more computing devices in a media processing chain to perform one of the insertion, retrieval or editing of relevant and irrelevant media data and / or the state of one of the relevant and irrelevant media data within one or more coded bit streams, the media processing chain including one or more of a psychoacoustic unit, a converter, a waveform / spatial audio coding unit, an encoder, a decoder, a transcoder or a stream processor. In some feasible embodiments, the state of one or more related and unrelated media data positions and / or related and unrelated media data positions within the encoded bit stream is carried in at least one of a substream, one or more reserved fields, an add_bsi field, one or more auxiliary data fields, or one or more transformation coefficients. In some feasible embodiments, a media processing system is configured to use one or more computing devices in a media processing chain to calculate and transmit cryptographic hash values ​​based on media data within one or more coded bit streams and / or the state of one of the media data. The media processing chain includes one or more of a psychoacoustic unit, a converter, a waveform / spatial audio coding unit, an encoder, a decoder, a transcoder, or a stream processor. As used herein, the term “relevant and irrelevant media location” may refer to information including a media resource locator, such as an absolute path, a relative path and / or a global resource locator (URL) indicating a relevant media location, or an absolute path, a relative path and / or a global resource locator (URL) indicating an irrelevant media location, or other types of information not directly related to the ontology or bitstream used to discover the media location (such as the location of a new media, like a business, advertisement, webpage, etc.). The term “state of relevant and irrelevant media location” as used in this article may refer to the validity of relevant and irrelevant media location (because it may be edited / updated throughout the lifecycle of the bitstream to which it is carried). As used herein, "related media data" may refer to a related media data transmission in the form of a secondary media data bitstream that is highly relevant to the primary media data bitstream (e.g., a transmission of a media data copy in a second (independent) bitstream format). In the context of unrelated media data, this information may refer to a transmission of a secondary media data bitstream that is unrelated to the primary media data. The term "state" for relevant media data used in this document can refer to any signal information (processing history, updated target loudness, etc.) and / or metadata, as well as the validity of relevant media data. The term "state" for irrelevant media data can refer to independent signal information and / or metadata, including validity information that can be individually (independently) carried from the "relevant" media data state. The state of irrelevant media data represents media data "unrelated" to the media data bitstream in which this information is found (because this information may be independently edited / updated throughout the lifecycle of the bitstream in which it is carried). The terms "absolute, relative, and / or gateless portion of media data" used herein may refer to gate values ​​for loudness and volume measurements performed on media data. A gate value is a specified volume or loudness threshold, where calculated values ​​exceeding the threshold are included in the final measurement (e.g., short-term loudness below -60 dBFS is not counted in the final measurement). An absolute gate value refers to a value that depends on the current "gateless" measurement. Figures 12A to 12L further illustrate block diagrams of some exemplary media processing nodes / devices according to some feasible embodiments of the present invention. As shown in Figure 12A, a signal processor (which may be node 1 of N nodes) is configured to receive an input signal, which may contain audio PCM samples. The audio PCM samples may or may not contain processing state metadata (or media state metadata) hidden between the audio PCM samples. The signal processor of Figure 12A may include a media state metadata extractor, configured to decode, extract, and / or interpret the processing state metadata from the audio PCM samples, provided by one or more media processing units preceding the signal processor of Figure 12A. At least a portion of the processing state metadata is provided to an audio encoder in the signal processor of Figure 12A to adapt processing parameters to the audio encoder. Simultaneously, an audio analysis unit in the signal processor of Figure 12A can analyze the media content transmitted in the input signal. Feature extraction, media classification, loudness estimation, fingerprint generation, etc., can be implemented as part of the analysis performed by the audio analysis unit. At least a portion of the analysis results is provided to the audio encoder in the signal processor of Figure 12A to adapt processing parameters to the audio encoder. An audio encoder encodes audio PCM samples from an input signal into a bitstream of an output signal based on processing parameters. A bitstream analysis unit in the signal processor of Figure 12A can be configured to determine whether there is space to store at least a portion of the processing state metadata in the bitstream of the bitstream to be transmitted to the output signal of the signal processor of Figure 12A. The new processing state metadata transmitted by the signal processor of Figure 12A includes some or all of the processing state metadata already captured by the media state metadata extractor, the processing state metadata already generated by the audio analysis unit and the media state metadata generator of the signal processor of Figure 12A, and / or any third-party data. If it is determined that there is still space to store at least a portion of the processing state metadata in the bitstream of the media data or samples, some or all of the new processing state metadata can be stored as hidden data in the media data or samples of the output signal. Alternatively, some or all of the new processing state metadata can be stored in separate metadata structures in the output signal, separate from the media data and samples. Therefore, the output signal may include a bitstream containing metadata of the new processing state (or media state), which is transmitted within and / or between media samples (body) through a securely hidden or unhidden communication channel. As shown in Figure 12B, a signal processor (which may be node 1 of N nodes) is configured to receive an input signal, which may contain audio PCM samples. The audio PCM samples may or may not contain processing state metadata (or media state metadata) hidden between the audio PCM samples. The signal processor of Figure 12B may include a media state metadata extractor, configured to decode, extract, and / or interpret the processing state metadata from the audio PCM samples, provided by one or more media processing units preceding the signal processor of Figure 12B. At least a portion of the processing state metadata can be provided to one of the PCM audio sample processors in the signal processor of Figure 12B to adapt processing parameters to the PCM audio sample processor. Simultaneously, an audio analysis unit in the signal processor of Figure 12B can analyze the media content transmitted in the input signal. Feature extraction, media classification, loudness estimation, fingerprint generation, etc., can be implemented as part of the analysis performed by the audio analysis unit. At least a portion of this analysis result can be provided to the audio encoder in the signal processor of Figure 12B to adapt the processing parameters to the PCM audio sample processor. Based on the processing parameters, the PCM audio sample processor encodes the audio PCM samples in the input signal into a PCM audio (sample) bitstream in an output signal. A PCM audio analysis unit in the signal processor of Figure 12B can be configured to determine whether there is space to store at least a portion of the processing state metadata in the media data or samples in the PCM audio bitstream to be transmitted to the output signal of the signal processor of Figure 12B. The new processing state metadata transmitted by the signal processor of Figure 12B includes some or all of the processing state metadata already captured by the media state metadata extractor, the processing state metadata already generated by the audio analysis unit and a media state metadata generator of the signal processor of Figure 12B, and / or any third-party data. If it is determined that there is still space in the media data or samples of the PCM audio bitstream to store at least a portion of the processing state metadata, some or all of the new processing state metadata can be stored as hidden data in the media data or samples of the output signal. Alternatively, some or all of the new processing state metadata can be stored in separate metadata structures in the output signal, separate from the media data and samples. Therefore, the output signal can include a PCM audio bitstream containing new processing state (or media state) metadata, which is transmitted within and / or between media samples (the body) through a securely hidden or unhidden communication channel. As shown in Figure 12C, a signal processor (which may be node 1 of N nodes) is configured to receive an input signal, which may contain a PCM audio (sample) bitstream. The PCM audio bitstream may contain processing status metadata (or media status metadata), which is transmitted within and / or between media samples (body) in the PCM audio bitstream via a secure or unsecured communication channel. The signal processor of Figure 12C may include a media status metadata extractor, which is configured to decode, extract, and / or interpret the processing status metadata from the PCM audio bitstream. At least a portion of the processing status metadata may be provided to one of the PCM audio sample processors in the signal processor of Figure 12C to adapt processing parameters to the PCM audio sample processor. The processing status metadata may include a description of media characteristics, media class type or subtype, or probability / probability value determined by one or more media processing units preceding the signal processor of Figure 12C. The signal processor of Figure 12C may be configured to use media without performing media content analysis itself. Furthermore, optionally, the media state metadata extractor can be configured to extract third-party data from the input signal and transmit the third-party data to a downstream processing node / body / device. In one embodiment, the PCM audio sample processor processes the PCM audio bitstream into audio PCM samples in an output signal based on processing parameters set based on processing state metadata provided by one or more media processing units preceding the signal processor of FIG12C. As shown in Figure 12D, a signal processor (which may be node 1 of N nodes) is configured to receive an input signal, which may contain an encoded audio bitstream containing processing state metadata (or media state metadata), transmitted within and / or between media samples via a securely hidden or unhidden communication channel. The signal processor of Figure 12D may include a media state metadata extractor, configured to decode, extract, and / or interpret the processing state metadata from the encoded bitstream, provided by one or more media processing units preceding the signal processor of Figure 12D. At least a portion of the processing state metadata is provided to one of the audio decoders in the signal processor of Figure 12D to adapt processing parameters to the audio decoder. Simultaneously, an audio analysis unit in the signal processor of Figure 12D can analyze the media content transmitted in the input signal. Feature extraction, media classification, loudness estimation, fingerprint generation, etc., can be implemented as part of the analysis performed by the audio analysis unit. At least a portion of this analysis result can be provided to the audio encoder in the signal processor of Figure 12D to adapt the processing parameters to the audio encoder. Based on the processing parameters, the audio encoder transforms the coded audio bitstream in the input signal into a PCM audio bitstream in the output signal. A PCM audio analysis unit in the signal processor of Figure 12D can be configured to determine whether there is space in the media data or samples of the PCM audio bitstream to store at least a portion of the processing state metadata. The new processing state metadata transmitted by the signal processor of Figure 12D includes some or all of the processing state metadata already captured by the media state metadata extractor, the processing state metadata already generated by the audio analysis unit and the media state metadata generator of the signal processor of Figure 12D, and / or any third-party data. If it is determined that there is still space in the media data or samples of the PCM audio bitstream to store at least a portion of the processing state metadata, some or all of the new processing state metadata can be stored as hidden data in the media data or samples of the output signal. Furthermore, alternatively, or partially or entirely, the new processing state metadata can be stored in separate metadata structures separate from the output signal of the media data and samples. Thus, the output signal may contain a PCM audio (sample) bitstream containing processing state (or media state) metadata, which is transmitted within and / or between the media data / sample (body) via a securely hidden or unhidden communication channel. As shown in Figure 12E, a signal processor (which may be node 1 of N nodes) is configured to receive an input signal, which may contain an encoded audio bitstream. The encoded audio bitstream may contain processing state metadata (or media state metadata), which is transmitted within and / or between media samples (body) in the encoded audio bitstream via a secure or unsecured communication channel. The signal processor of Figure 12E may include a media state metadata extractor, which is configured to decode, extract, and / or interpret the processing state metadata from the encoded audio bitstream. At least a portion of the processing state metadata is provided to one of the audio decoders in the signal processor of Figure 12E to adapt processing parameters to the audio decoder. The processing state metadata may include a description of media characteristics, media class type or subtype, or probability / probability value determined by one or more media processing units preceding the signal processor of Figure 12E. The signal processor of Figure 12E may be configured to use media without performing media content analysis itself. Furthermore, optionally, the media state metadata extractor can be configured to extract third-party data from the input signal and transmit the third-party data to a downstream processing node / body / device. In one embodiment, the audio decoder processes the encoded audio bitstream into audio PCM samples in an output signal based on processing parameters set based on processing state metadata provided by one or more media processing units preceding the signal processor of FIG12E. As shown in Figure 12F, a signal processor (which may be node 1 of N nodes) is configured to receive an input signal, which may contain an encoded audio bitstream with processing state metadata (or media state metadata), transmitted within and / or between media samples via a securely hidden or unhidden communication channel. The signal processor of Figure 12F may include a media state metadata extractor, configured to decode, extract, and / or interpret the processing state metadata from the encoded bitstream, provided by one or more media processing units preceding the signal processor of Figure 12F. At least a portion of the processing state metadata may be provided to a bitstream transcoder (or encoded audio bitstream processor) in the signal processor of Figure 12F to adapt processing parameters to the bitstream transcoder. Simultaneously, an audio analysis unit in the signal processor of Figure 12F can analyze the media content transmitted in the input signal. Feature extraction, media classification, loudness estimation, fingerprint generation, etc., may be implemented as part of the analysis performed by the audio analysis unit. At least a portion of this analysis result can be provided to the bitstream transcoder in the signal processor of Figure 12F to adapt the processing parameters to the bitstream transcoder. The bitstream transcoder, based on the processing parameters, transforms the encoded audio bitstream in the input signal into an encoded audio bitstream in the output signal. An encoded audio analysis unit in the signal processor of Figure 12F can be configured to determine whether there is space in the media data or samples of the encoded audio bitstream to store at least a portion of the processing state metadata. The new processing state metadata transmitted by the signal processor of Figure 12F includes some or all of the processing state metadata already captured by the media state metadata extractor, the processing state metadata already generated by the audio analysis unit and the media state metadata generator of the signal processor of Figure 12F, and / or any third-party data. If it is determined that there is still space in the media data or samples of the encoded audio bitstream to store at least a portion of the processing state metadata, some or all of the new processing state metadata can be stored as hidden data in the media data or samples of the output signal. Furthermore, alternatively, or partially or entirely, the new processing state metadata can be stored in separate metadata structures separate from the output signal of the media data and the sample. Thus, the output signal may contain an encoded audio bitstream containing processing state (or media state) metadata, which is transmitted within and / or between the media data / sample (body) via a securely hidden or unhidden communication channel. Figure 12G illustrates an exemplary configuration similar to that of Figure 12A. Additionally, optionally, one of the signal processors in Figure 12G may include a media state metadata extractor configured to query a local and / or external media state metadata database, which is operationally connected to the signal processor of Figure 12G via an intranet and / or the internet. A query sent from the signal processor of Figure 12G to the database may include one or more fingerprints associated with media data, one or more names associated with media data (e.g., song titles, movie titles), or any other type of identification information associated with media data. Based on the information in the query, matching media state metadata stored in the database can be located and provided to the signal processor of Figure 12G. The media state metadata may be included in the processing state metadata provided by the media state metadata extractor to downstream processing nodes / entities (e.g., an audio encoder). Furthermore, optionally, the signal processor of Figure 12G may include a media state metadata generator configured to provide any generated media state metadata and / or associated identification information (e.g., fingerprints, names, and / or other types of identification information) to a local and / or external media state metadata database, as shown in Figure 12G. Additionally, optionally, one or more portions of the media state metadata stored in the database may be provided to the signal processor of Figure 12G to communicate via a securely hidden or unhidden communication channel to a downstream media processing node / device within and / or between the media sample (body). Figure 12H illustrates a demonstrative configuration similar to that of Figure 12B. Alternatively, one of the signal processors in Figure 12H may include a media state metadata extractor configured to query a local and / or external media state metadata database, which is operationally connected to the signal processor in Figure 12H via an intranet and / or the internet. A query sent from the signal processor in Figure 12H to the database may include one or more fingerprints associated with media data, one or more names associated with media data (e.g., song titles, movie titles), or any other type of identification information associated with media data. Based on the information in the query, matching media state metadata stored in the database can be located and provided to the signal processor in Figure 12H. The media state metadata may be included in the processing state metadata provided by the media state metadata extractor to downstream processing nodes / entities (e.g., a PCM audio sample processor). Additionally, optionally, the signal processor of FIG12H may include a media state metadata generator configured to provide any generated media state metadata and / or associated identification information (e.g., fingerprints, names, and / or other types of identification information) to a local and / or external media state metadata database, as shown in FIG12H. Additionally, optionally, one or more portions of the media state metadata stored in the database may be provided to the signal processor of FIG12H to communicate via a securely hidden or unhidden communication channel to a downstream media processing node / device within and / or between the media sample (body). Figure 12I illustrates an exemplary configuration similar to that of Figure 12C. Alternatively, one of the signal processors in Figure 12I may include a media state metadata retriever configured to query a local and / or external media state metadata database, which is operationally connected to the signal processor in Figure 12I via an intranet and / or the internet. Queries sent from the signal processor in Figure 12I to the database may include one or more fingerprints associated with media data, one or more names associated with media data (e.g., song titles, movie titles), or any other type of identification information associated with media data. Based on the information in the query, matching media state metadata stored in the database can be located and provided to the signal processor in Figure 12I. The media state metadata can be provided to downstream processing nodes / entities (e.g., a PCM audio sample processor). Figure 12J illustrates a demonstrative configuration similar to that of Figure 12D. Alternatively, one of the signal processors in Figure 12J may include a media state metadata extractor configured to query a local and / or external media state metadata database, which is operationally connected to the signal processor in Figure 12J via an intranet and / or the internet. A query sent from the signal processor in Figure 12J to the database may include one or more fingerprints associated with media data, one or more names associated with media data (e.g., song titles, movie titles), or any other type of identification information associated with media data. Based on the information in the query, matching media state metadata stored in the database can be located and provided to the signal processor in Figure 12J. The media state metadata from the database may be included in the processing state metadata provided by the media state metadata extractor to downstream processing nodes / entities (e.g., an audio decoder). Furthermore, optionally, the signal processor of Figure 12J may include an audio analysis unit configured to provide any generated media state metadata and / or associated identification information (e.g., fingerprints, names, and / or other types of identification information) to a local and / or external media state metadata database, as shown in Figure 12J. Additionally, optionally, one or more portions of the media state metadata stored in the database may be provided to the signal processor of Figure 12J to communicate via a securely hidden or unhidden communication channel to a downstream media processing node / device within and / or between the media sample (body). Figure 12K illustrates a demonstrative configuration similar to that of Figure 12F. Alternatively, one of the signal processors in Figure 12K may include a media state metadata retriever configured to query a local and / or external media state metadata database, which is operationally connected to the signal processor in Figure 12K via an intranet and / or the internet. Queries sent from the signal processor in Figure 12K to the database may include one or more fingerprints associated with media data, one or more names associated with media data (e.g., song titles, movie titles), or any other type of identification information associated with media data. Based on the information in the query, matching media state metadata stored in the database can be located and provided to the signal processor in Figure 12K. The media state metadata from the database may be included in the processing state metadata provided to downstream processing nodes / entities (e.g., bitstream transcoders or encoded audio bitstream processors). In addition, alternatively, one or more portions of the media state metadata stored in the database may be provided to the signal processor of Figure 12K to communicate via a securely hidden or unhidden communication channel to the media sample (body) and / or one of the downstream media processing nodes / devices therein. Figure 12L illustrates a signal processor node 1 and a signal processor node 2 according to one exemplary embodiment. Signal processor node 1 and signal processor node 2 may be part of an entire media processing chain. In some embodiments, signal processor node 1 adapts media processing based on processing state metadata received by signal processor node 2, while signal processor node 2 adapts media processing based on processing state metadata received by signal processor node 2. After signal processor node 1 analyzes the content of the media data, the processing state metadata received by signal processor node 2 may include processing state metadata and / or media state metadata; as a result, signal processor node 2 can directly use the metadata provided by signal processor node 1 during media processing, without having to repeat some or all of the analysis previously performed by signal processor node 1. 7. Implementing Organization - Hardware Overview According to one embodiment, the technology described herein is implemented using one or more special-purpose computing devices. The special-purpose computing device may be hardwired to execute the technology, or may include digital electronic devices, such as one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) or field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) continuously and stably programmed to execute the technology, or may include one or more general-purpose hardware processors programmable to execute the technology based on firmware, memory, other storage devices, or a combination of program instructions. This special-purpose computing device may also combine general hardwired logic, ASICs, or FPGAs with general programming to achieve the technology. The special-purpose computing device may be a desktop computer system, a portable computer system, a handheld device, a network device, or any other device that combines hardwired and / or programmable logic to execute the technology. For example, Figure 10 is a block diagram illustrating a computer system 1000 that can be implemented in embodiments of the present invention. The computer system 1000 includes a bus 1002 or other communication mechanism for communicating information, and a hardware processor 1004 coupled to the bus 1002 for processing information. The hardware processor 1004 may be, for example, a general-purpose microprocessor. Computer system 1000 also includes a main memory 1006, such as random access memory (RAM) or other dynamic storage device, coupled to bus 1002 to store information and instructions to be executed by processor 1004. Main memory 1006 can be used to store temporary variables or other intermediate information during the execution of instructions to be executed by processor 1004. When stored in a non-temporary storage medium accessible to processor 1004, these instructions make computer system 1000 a special-purpose machine customized to perform the operations specified in the instructions. The computer system 1000 further includes a read-only memory (ROM) 1008, or other memory coupled to the bus 1002, for storing static information and instructions for use by the processor 1004. A storage device 1010 (e.g., a magnetic disk or optical disk) is disposed on and coupled to the bus 1002 for storing information and instructions. Computer system 1000 can be coupled to a display 1012 (e.g., a cathode ray tube (CRT)) via bus 1002 to display information to a computer user. An input device 1014, including letters and other keys, is coupled to bus 1002 to communicate information and command selection to processor 1004. Another type of user input device is a cursor control 1016 (e.g., a mouse, trackball) or cursor arrow keys, to communicate information and command selection to processor 1004 and control cursor movement on display 1012. This input device typically has two degrees of freedom on two axes, namely a first axis (e.g., x) and a second axis (e.g., y), allowing the device to specify a position in a plane. Computer system 1000 may use custom hardwired logic, one or more ASICs or FPGAs, firmware and / or programmable logic to execute the techniques described herein, which, in combination with the computer system, cause or program the computer system 1000 into a special purpose machine. According to one embodiment, the techniques described herein are executed by the computer system 1000 in response to processor 1004, which executes one or more sequences of instructions contained in main memory 1006. The instructions may be read from another storage medium (e.g., storage device 1010) into main memory 1006. Execution of the instruction sequences contained in main memory 1006 causes processor 1004 to perform the process steps described herein. In alternative embodiments, hardwired circuitry may be used to replace or combine with software instructions. As used herein, the term "storage media" refers to a non-transitory medium that stores data and / or instructions to enable a machine to operate in a specified manner. This storage media may include non-volatile and / or volatile media. Non-volatile media include, for example, optical or magnetic disks, such as storage device 1010. Volatile media include, for example, dynamic memory, such as main memory 1006. Common forms of storage media include, for example, floppy disks, flexible disks, hard disks, solid-state drives, magnetic tapes, or any other magnetic data storage media, CD-ROMs, any other optical data storage media, any physical media with a perforated pattern, RAM, PROM, EPROM, FLASH-EPROM, NVRAM, and any other memory chips or cartridges. Storage media and transmission media are distinct, but can still be used together. Transmission media are intended for transmitting information between storage media. Examples of transmission media include coaxial cables, copper wires, and optical fibers, including wiring containing busbars 1002. Transmission media can also be in the form of sound waves or light waves, such as those generated during radio wave and infrared data communication. Many media formats involve sending one or more sequences of instructions to processor 1004 for execution. For example, instructions may initially be carried on a magnetic disk or a solid-state drive of a remote computer. The remote computer can load the instructions into its dynamic memory and use a modem to transmit the instructions to a telephone line. A modem within computer system 1000 can receive data from the telephone line and use an infrared transmitter to convert the data into infrared signals. An infrared signal detector can receive the data carried in the infrared signals, and appropriate circuitry can send the data to bus 1002. Bus 1002 carries the data to main memory 1006, from which processor 1004 retrieves and executes instructions. Instructions received in main memory 1006 can optionally be stored in storage device 1010 before or after execution by processor 1004. Computer system 1000 also includes a communication interface 1018 coupled to bus 1002. Communication interface 1018 provides bidirectional data communication and is coupled to a network link 1020 connected to local area network 1022. For example, communication interface 1018 may be an Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) card, a cable modem, a satellite modem, or a modem for providing data communication connectivity to a corresponding type of telephone line. As another example, communication interface 1018 may be a local area network (LAN) card to provide data communication connectivity to a compatible LAN. Wireless connectivity may also be implemented. In any of these embodiments, communication interface 1018 transmits and receives electrical, electromagnetic, or optical signals, carrying digital data streams representing various types of information. Network link 1020 typically provides data communication over one or more networks to other data devices. For example, network link 1020 can provide a connection over local area network 1022 to a host computer 1024 or a data device operated by an Internet Service Provider (ISP) 1026. ISP 1026 thus provides data communication services over a global packet data communication network, commonly referred to as "Internet 1028". Both local area network 1022 and Internet 1028 use electrical, electromagnetic, or optical signals carrying digital data streams. The signals over many networks and over network link 1020 and through communication interface 1018 carry digital data to and from computer system 1000, which is an example of a transmission medium. Computer system 1000 can transmit messages and receive data, including program code, via a network, network link 1020, and communication interface 1018. In an Internet example, a server 1030 can transmit a request code for an application via the Internet 1028, ISP 1026, local area network 1022, and communication interface 1018. The received code may be executed by processor 1004 as it was received, and / or stored in storage device 1010 or other non-volatile storage device for subsequent execution. 8. Examples of exemplary implementation methods are provided. Therefore, embodiments of the present invention may be related to one or more exemplary embodiments listed below, each of which is an example, and any related discussions provided above should not be construed as limiting the scope of any current or subsequent amendments, substitutions, or additions to any patent application provided below. Similarly, these examples should not be considered as limiting the scope of any related patent and / or patent application (including any foreign or international counterparty application and / or patent, divisional application, continuation application, re-application). Example 1 illustrates a method comprising: determining, by means of a first device in a media processing chain, whether a type of media processing has been performed on an output form of media data; in response to the determination that the media processing type has been performed on the output form of the media data, performing by means of the first device: (a) generating a state of the media data by means of the first device, the state specifying the type of media processing performed on the output form of the media data; and (b) communicating the output form of the media data and the state of the media data from the first device to a second device downstream in the media processing chain. Example 2 is a method as described in Example 1, wherein the media material includes media content as one or more of the following: audio content only, video content only, or a combination of audio and video content. Example 3 is a method as described in Example 1, further comprising providing the media data status to the second device as one or more of the following: (a) media fingerprint, (b) processing status metadata, (c) extracted media characteristic values, (d) media level type or subtype description and / or value, (e) media characteristic level and / or sublevel probability, (f) password hash value, or (f) media processing signal. The exemplary embodiment 4 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 1, further comprising storing a media processing data block in a media processing database, wherein the media processing data block contains media processing metadata, and wherein the media processing data block is retrieved based on one or more media fingerprints associated with the media processing data block. Example 5 is a method as described in Example 1, wherein the media data status includes a cryptographic hash value encrypted with credential information, and wherein the cryptographic hash value can be authenticated by a recipient device. Example 6 is a method as described in Example 1, wherein at least a portion of the media data state includes one or more secure communication channels hidden in the media data, and one or more secure communication channels are authenticated by a recipient device. Example 7 is a method as described in Example 6, wherein one or more secure communication channels include at least one spread spectrum secure communication channel. Example 8 is a method as described in Example 6, wherein one or more secure communication channels include at least one frequency shift keying secure communication channel. Example 9 is a method as described in Example 1, wherein the media data state is carried in the form of media data output in an output media bit stream. Example 10 is a method as described in Example 1, wherein the media data state is carried in an auxiliary metadata bit stream, which is associated with a separate media bit stream that carries the media data output format. Example 11 is a method as described in Example 1, wherein the media data state includes one or more sets of parameters related to the media processing type. The exemplary embodiment 12 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 1, wherein at least one of the first or second apparatus includes a preprocessing unit, an encoder, a media processing subunit, a transcoder, a decoder, a postprocessing unit, or a media content presentation subunit. Example 13 is a method as described in Example 1, wherein the first device is an encoder and the second device is a decoder. The exemplary embodiment 14 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 1, further comprising performing a processing type by means of a first device. Example 15 is a method as described in Example 1, wherein the media processing type is performed by an upstream device in the media processing chain relative to the first device; and further includes: receiving an input form of media data by the first device, wherein the input form of the media data includes any state of the media data indicating the media processing type; and analyzing the input form of the media data to determine whether the media processing type has been performed on the media data input form. The exemplary embodiment 16 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 1, further comprising: encoding the loudness and dynamic range of the media data state. Example 17 is a method as described in Example 1, wherein a media processing type is executed by an upstream device in a media processing chain relative to a first device; and further includes: receiving an instruction by the first device to skip a previously executed media processing type; executing a media processing type by the first device; and communicating an output form of media data and a status of media data from the first device to a downstream second device in the media processing chain, the media data status indicating that a media processing type has been executed in a media data input form. The exemplary embodiment 18 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 17, further comprising receiving instructions from one or more of the following: (a) user input, (b) a system configuration of the first device, (c) a signal emitted from a device outside the first device, and (d) a signal emitted from a sub-unit within the first device. The exemplary embodiment 19 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 1, further comprising communicating from the first device to a second device downstream in the media processing chain, regardless of one or more metadata types of media data status. The exemplary embodiment 20 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 1, wherein the media data state includes at least a portion of state metadata hidden in one or more secure communication channels. The exemplary embodiment 21 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 1, further comprising changing a plurality of bits in the media data to store at least a portion of the state of the media data. Example 22 is a method as described in Example 1, wherein at least one of the first and second devices includes one or more of the Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) codec, the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) codec, the Audio Codec 3 (AC-3) codec, and the Enhanced AC-3 codec. Example 23 is a method as described in Example 1, wherein the media processing chain includes: a preprocessing unit configured to receive a time-domain sample including media content as input and to output a processed time-domain sample; an encoder configured to output a compressed media bitstream of the media content based on the processed time-domain sample; a signal analysis and metadata correction unit configured to verify the processed state metadata in the compressed media bitstream; a transcoder configured to modify the compressed media bitstream; a decoder configured to output a decoded time-domain sample based on the compressed media bitstream; and a postprocessing unit configured to perform postprocessing on the media content in the decoded time-domain sample. Example 24 is a method as described in Example 23, wherein at least one of the first and second devices includes a preprocessing unit, a signal analysis and metadata correction unit, a transcoder, a decoder, and a postprocessing unit. Example 25 is a method as described in Example 23, wherein at least one of the preprocessing unit, signal analysis and metadata correction unit, transcoder, decoder and postprocessing unit performs adaptive processing techniques for media content based on processed metadata received from an upstream device. The exemplary embodiment 26 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 1, further comprising determining one or more media characteristics from the media material; including one or more media characteristics describing the state of the media material. Example 27 is a method as described in Example 26, wherein one or more media features include at least one media feature that is determined from one or more of the following: frame, second, minute, user-defined time interval, scene, song, music clip, and recording. Example 28 is a method as described in Example 26, wherein one or more media features include a semantic description of one type of media material. Example 29 is a method as described in Example 26, wherein one or more media characteristics include structural properties, pitch including harmony and melody, timbre, rhythm, loudness, stereo mixing, sound source quantity of media material, presence or absence of sound, repetition features, melody, harmony, lyrics, timbre, perceptual characteristics, digital media characteristics, stereo parameters, and one or more parts of speech content. The exemplary embodiment 30 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 26, further comprising classifying media material into one or more of a plurality of media material levels using one or more media characteristics. Example 31 is a method as described in Example 30, wherein one or more media material levels include one or more of a single overall / majority media material level for an entire media, or a single level representing a shorter time period than the entire media. The exemplary embodiment 32 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 31, wherein the smaller time period represents a single media frame, a single media segment, a plurality of media frames, a plurality of media segments, a fraction of a second, a second, or more seconds. Example 33 is a method as described in Example 30, wherein one or more media data level tags representing one or more media data levels are calculated and inserted into a bit stream. Example 34 is a method as described in Example 30, wherein one or more media data tags representing one or more media data levels are calculated and signaled to a receiving media processing node, as if they were hidden data embedded with the media data. Example 35 is a method as described in Example 30, wherein one or more media data level tags representing one or more media data levels are calculated and signaled to a receiving media processing node in a separate metadata structure between media data blocks. Example 36 is a method as described in Example 31, wherein a single overall / multiple media material level represents a single level type such as music, speech, noise, silence, applause, or a mixed level type such as speech overlaid with music, conversation overlaid with noise, or a mixture of other media material types. Example 37 is a method as described in Example 30, further comprising associating one or more probability or likelihood values ​​with one or more media rating labels, wherein one probability or likelihood value represents a confidence level, i.e., the relationship between a calculated media rating label and a media segment / whole associated with the calculated media rating label. Example 38 is a method as described in Example 37, wherein the probability or likelihood value is used by one of the recipient media processing nodes in the media processing chain to adapt the media processing to improve one or more operations, such as upmixing, encoding, decoding, transcoding, or headphone sound simulation. The exemplary embodiment 39 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 38, wherein at least one of one or more operations may not require preset processing parameters, reducing the complexity of processing units throughout the media chain or increasing battery life, because the complex analysis operation of media classification by the recipient's media processing node can be avoided. Example 40 is a method comprising: determining, by means of a first device in a media processing chain, whether a type of media processing has been performed on an input form of media data; in response to the determination that a media processing type has been performed on an input form of media data, performing adaptive processing of the media data by means of the first device to stop the execution of the media processing type in the first device; wherein the method is performed by one or more computing processors. The exemplary embodiment 41 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 40, further comprising: communicating from the first device an output form of media data and a status of media data to a second device downstream in the media processing chain, the media data status indicating that a media processing type has been performed in the output form of the media data. The exemplary embodiment 42 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 41, further comprising: encoding the loudness and dynamic range of the media data state. The exemplary embodiment 43 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 40, further comprising: performing a second type of media processing on media data by means of a first device, the second type of media processing being different from the media processing type; communicating an output form of media data and a state of media data from the first device to a downstream second device in the media processing chain, the media data state indicating that the media processing type and the second different type of media processing have been performed in the output form of the media data. The exemplary embodiment 44 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 40, further comprising: automatically performing one or more adaptive loudness or dynamic audio processing based at least in part on whether the processing type has been performed on the input form of the media data. The exemplary embodiment 45 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 40, further comprising: extracting an input state of the media data from data units of the media data in which the media content is encoded, wherein the input state of the media data is hidden in one or more data units. The exemplary embodiment 46 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 45, further comprising: restoring one of the data units that does not contain a media data input state in form, and presenting media content based on the form of the data unit that has not yet been restored. The exemplary embodiment 47 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 46, further comprising: retrieving one of the input states of the media data associated with the input format of the media data. Example 48 is a method as described in Example 47, further comprising: authenticating the media data input state by verifying a password hash value associated with the media data input state. Example 49 is a method as described in Example 47, further comprising: authenticating a media data input state by verifying one or more fingerprints associated with the media data input state, wherein at least one of the fingerprints is generated based on at least a portion of the media data. The exemplary embodiment 50 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 47, further comprising: verifying media data by verifying one or more fingerprints associated with the media data input state, wherein at least one of the one or more fingerprints is generated based on at least a portion of the media data. Example 51 is a method as described in Example 47, wherein the input state of media data is carried along with the media data input form in an input media bit stream. The exemplary embodiment 52 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 47, further comprising: cutting off one or more types of media processing based on the input status of the media data. The exemplary embodiment 53 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 47, wherein the input state of the media data is described by processing state metadata; and further includes: generating a media processing signal at least in part based on the processing state metadata, wherein the media processing signal indicates the input state of the media data; and transmitting the media processing signal to a media processing device downstream of the first device in the media processing chain. Example 54 is a method as described in Example 53, wherein the media processing signal is hidden in one or more data units in one output form of the media data. Example 55 is a method as described in Example 54, wherein the media processing signal is performed using a reversible data hiding technique such that one or more modifications to the media data can be removed by a recipient device. Example 56 is a method as described in Example 54, wherein the media processing signal is performed using an irreversible data hiding technique such that at least one of the modifications to the media data cannot be removed by a recipient device. The exemplary embodiment 57 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 46, further comprising receiving one or more types of metadata from one of the upstream devices in the media processing chain, which are independent of any prior media processing performed on the media data. Example 58 is a method as described in Example 47, wherein the media data state includes at least a portion of state metadata hidden in one or more secure communication channels. The exemplary embodiment 59 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 46, further comprising changing a plurality of bits in the media data to store at least a portion of the state of the media data. Example 60 is a method as described in Example 46, wherein the first apparatus includes one or more of the Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) codec, the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) codec, the Audio Codec 3 (AC-3) codec, and the Enhanced AC-3 codec. Example 61 is a method as described in Example 46, wherein the media processing chain includes: a preprocessing unit configured to receive a time-domain sample including media content as input and to output a processed time-domain sample; an encoder configured to output a compressed media bitstream of the media content based on the processed time-domain sample; a signal analysis and metadata correction unit configured to verify the processed state metadata in the compressed media bitstream; a transcoder configured to modify the compressed media bitstream; a decoder configured to output a decoded time-domain sample based on the compressed media bitstream; and a postprocessing unit configured to perform postprocessing on the media content in the decoded time-domain sample. Example 62 is a method as described in Example 61, wherein the first apparatus includes one or more of a preprocessing unit, a signal analysis and metadata correction unit, a transcoder, a decoder, and a postprocessing unit. The exemplary embodiment 63 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 61, wherein at least one of the preprocessing unit, signal analysis and metadata correction unit, transcoder, decoder and postprocessing unit performs adaptive processing techniques for media content based on processed metadata received from an upstream device. The exemplary embodiment 64 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 47, further comprising determining one or more media characteristics based on a description of one or more media characteristics in the media material state. Example 65 is a method as described in Example 64, wherein one or more media features include at least one media feature determined from one or more of the following: frame, second, minute, user-defined time interval, scene, song, music clip, and recording. Example 66 is a method as described in Example 64, wherein one or more media features include a semantic description of one of the media materials. The exemplary embodiment 67 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 64, further comprising performing one or more specified operations in response to determining one or more media characteristics. The exemplary embodiment 68 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 43, further comprising providing the status of media data to a second means in the media processing chain as one or more of the following: (a) media fingerprint, (b) processing status metadata, (c) extracting media characteristic values, (d) media level type or subtype description and / or value, (e) media characteristic level and / or sublevel probability, (f) password hash value or (f) media processing signal. Example 69 is a method comprising: calculating one or more data rate reduction representations of a source frame of media data by means of a first device in a media processing chain; and simultaneously and securely transmitting one or more data rate reduction representations to a second device in a media processing chain while in a state of the media data itself; wherein the method is performed by means of one or more computing devices. The exemplary embodiment 70 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 69, wherein one or more data transfer rate reductions are carried in at least one of a substream, one or more reserved fields, an add_bsi field, one or more auxiliary data fields, or one or more conversion coefficients. Example 71 is a method as described in Example 69, wherein one or more data transfer rate reductions indicate the inclusion of synchronization data for synchronizing audio and video transmitted within media data. Example 72 is a method as described in Example 69, wherein a reduction in one or more data transfer rates indicates the inclusion of a media fingerprint, which is (a) generated by a media processing unit and (b) embedded with media data for one or more of the purposes of quality monitoring, media evaluation, media tracking, or content search. Example 73 is a method as described in Example 69, wherein a reduction in one or more data transmission rates indicates the inclusion of at least a portion of state metadata hidden in one or more secure communication channels. The exemplary embodiment 74 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 69, further comprising altering a plurality of bits in the media data to store at least a portion of one or more data transfer rate reduction representations. Example 75 is a method as described in Example 69, wherein at least one of the first and second devices includes one or more of the Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) codec, the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) codec, the Audio Codec 3 (AC-3) codec, and the Enhanced AC-3 codec. Example 76 is a method as described in Example 69, wherein the media processing chain includes: a preprocessing unit configured to receive a time-domain sample including media content as input and for outputting a processed time-domain sample; an encoder configured to output a compressed media bitstream of the media content based on the processed time-domain sample; a signal analysis and metadata correction unit configured to verify the processing state metadata in the compressed media bitstream; a transcoder configured to modify the compressed media bitstream; a decoder configured to output a decoded time-domain sample based on the compressed media bitstream; and a postprocessing unit configured to perform postprocessing on the media content in the decoded time-domain sample. The exemplary embodiment 77 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 76, wherein at least one of the first and second devices includes a preprocessing unit, a signal analysis and metadata correction unit, a transcoder, a decoder, and a postprocessing unit. The exemplary embodiment 78 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 76, wherein at least one of the preprocessing unit, signal analysis and metadata correction unit, transcoder, decoder and postprocessing unit performs adaptive processing techniques for media content based on processed metadata received from an upstream device. The exemplary embodiment 79 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 69, further comprising providing the status of media data to the second device as one or more of the following: (a) media fingerprint, (b) processing status metadata, (c) extracting media characteristic values, (d) media level type or subtype description and / or value, (e) media characteristic level and / or sublevel probability, (f) password hash value, or (f) media processing signal. Example 80 describes a method comprising: adaptively processing an input form of media data using one or more computing devices in a media processing chain, based on past history of loudness processing of media data by one or more upstream media processing units indicated by a media data state; the media processing chain including one or more of a psychoacoustic unit, a converter, a waveform / spatial audio encoding unit, an encoder, a decoder, a transcoder, or a streaming processor; and normalizing the loudness and / or dynamic range of an output form of media data at the end of the media processing chain to a consistent loudness and / or dynamic range value. Example 81 is a method as described in Example 80, wherein the consistent loudness value includes one of the following: (1) controlled or selected by a user or (2) a state-adaptive signal sent from one input form of media material. Example 82 is a method as described in Example 80, wherein the loudness value is calculated on the dialogue (speech) portion of the media material. Example 83 is a method as described in Example 80, wherein the loudness value is calculated on the absolute, relative and / or gateless portions of the media material. Example 84 is a method as described in Example 80, wherein the consistent dynamic range value includes one of the following loudness values: (1) controlled or selected by a user or (2) adaptively transmitted by a state signal in one of the media input formats. Example 85 is a method as described in Example 84, wherein the dynamic range value is calculated on the dialogue (voice) portion of the media material. Example 86 is a method as described in Example 84, wherein the dynamic range value is calculated over the absolute, relative and / or gateless portions of the media data. The exemplary embodiment 87 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 80, further comprising: calculating one or more loudness and / or dynamic range gain control values ​​to normalize the output form of the media data to a consistent loudness value and a consistent dynamic range; simultaneously carrying one or more loudness and / or dynamic range gain control values ​​in a state of the output form of the media data at the end of the media processing chain, wherein the one or more loudness and / or dynamic range gain control values ​​can be used by another device to reversibly apply one or more loudness and / or dynamic range gain control values ​​to restore an original loudness value and an original dynamic range in the input form of the media data. Example 88 is a method as described in Example 87, wherein one or more loudness and / or dynamic range gain control values ​​representing the output form of media data are carried in at least one of a substream, one or more reserved domains, an add_bsi domain, one or more auxiliary data domains, or one or more conversion coefficients. The exemplary embodiment 89 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 80, further comprising calculating and transmitting a cryptographic hash value by at least one of one or more computing devices in a media processing chain based on media data and / or media data status within one or more coded bit streams carrying media data. The exemplary embodiment 90 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 89, further comprising: authenticating a password hash value by a recipient device; determining whether the media data status is valid by the recipient device, and sending a signal to one or more downstream media processing units; and in response to the determination of whether the media data status is valid, the recipient device sending a media data status signal to one or more downstream media processing units. The exemplary embodiment 91 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 89, further comprising: a cryptographic hash value representing the state of the media and / or media data being carried in at least one of a substream, one or more reserved fields, an add_bsi field, one or more auxiliary data fields, or one or more conversion coefficients. Example 92 is a method as described in Example 80, wherein the state of the media data includes one or more of the following: (a) media fingerprint, (b) processing state metadata, (c) extracted media characteristic values, (d) media level type or subtype description and / or value, (e) media characteristic level and / or sublevel probability, (f) password hash value or (f) media processing signal. Example 93 illustrates a method comprising: using one or more computing devices in a media processing chain to perform one of the insertion, retrieval, or editing of relevant and irrelevant media data locations and / or the state of one of relevant and irrelevant media data locations within one or more coded bit streams, the media processing chain comprising one or more of a psychoacoustic unit, a converter, a waveform / spatial audio coding unit, an encoder, a decoder, a transcoder, or a stream processor. Example 94 is a method as described in Example 93, wherein one or more relevant and irrelevant media data positions and / or the states of relevant and irrelevant media data positions within the encoded bit stream are carried in at least one of a substream, one or more reserved fields, an add_bsi field, one or more auxiliary data fields, or one or more transformation coefficients. Example 95 illustrates a method comprising: using one or more computing devices in a media processing chain to perform one of the insertion, retrieval or editing of relevant and irrelevant media data and / or the state of one of the relevant and irrelevant media data within one or more coded bit streams, the media processing chain including one or more of a psychoacoustic unit, a converter, a waveform / spatial audio coding unit, an encoder, a decoder, a transcoder or a stream processor. Example 96 is a method as described in Example 95, wherein one or more relevant and irrelevant media data positions and / or the states of relevant and irrelevant media data positions within the encoded bit stream are carried in at least one of a substream, one or more reserved fields, an add_bsi field, one or more auxiliary data fields, or one or more transformation coefficients. The exemplary embodiment 97 is a method as described in the exemplary embodiment 93, further comprising providing a state of media data from an upstream media processing device to a downstream media processing device as one or more of the following: (a) media fingerprint, (b) processing state metadata, (c) extracted media characteristic values, (d) media level type or subtype description and / or value, (e) media characteristic level and / or sublevel probability, (f) password hash value, or (f) media processing signal. Example 98 illustrates a media processing system configured to calculate and transmit cryptographic hash values ​​using one or more computing devices in a media processing chain based on media data within one or more coded bit streams and / or the state of one of the media data. The media processing chain includes one or more of a psychoacoustic unit, a converter, a waveform / spatial audio encoding unit, an encoder, a decoder, a transcoder, or a stream processor. Example 99 is a media processing system as described in Example 98, wherein the state of media data includes one or more of the following: (a) media fingerprint, (b) processing state metadata, (c) extracted media characteristic values, (d) media level type or subtype description and / or value, (e) media characteristic level and / or sublevel probability, (f) password hash value or (f) media processing signal. The exemplary embodiment 100 is a media processing system configured to adaptively process media data based on the state of one or more media data received from one or more secure communication channels. The exemplary embodiment 101 is a media processing system as described in the exemplary embodiment 100, wherein the media processing system includes one or more processing nodes, and wherein the processing nodes include a media delivery system, a media distribution system, and a media presentation system. Example 102 is a media processing system as described in Example 101, wherein one or more secure communication channels comprise at least one secure communication channel that is a compressed / encoded bitstream and a PCM processing node. The exemplary embodiment 103 is a media processing system as described in the exemplary embodiment 101, wherein one or more secure communication channels include at least one secure communication channel through two separate media processing devices. The exemplary embodiment 104 is a media processing system as described in the exemplary embodiment 101, wherein one or more secure communication channels include at least one secure communication channel through two media processing nodes in a single media processing device. Example 105 is a media processing system as described in Example 100, wherein the media processing system is configured to perform independent media processing operations, regardless of the order of the media processing systems in a media processing chain in which the media processing systems are part. Example 106 is a media processing system as described in Example 100, wherein the state of media data includes one or more of the following: (a) media fingerprint, (b) processing state metadata, (c) extracted media characteristic values, (d) media level type or subtype description and / or value, (e) media characteristic level and / or sublevel probability, (f) password hash value or (f) media processing signal. Example 107 is a media processing system configured to perform any of the methods described in Example 1-99. Example 108 is an apparatus comprising a processor configured to perform any of the methods described in Example 1-99. Example 109 is a computer-readable storage medium containing software instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, produce the performance of any of the methods described in Example 1-99. 9. Equivalent extension, transformation forms and other aspects In the foregoing description, feasible embodiments of the invention have been disclosed with reference to many specific details that may be modified according to implementation. Therefore, the invention is unique and singular, and the claims of the applicant are within the scope of this application, including any subsequent modifications in the specific form of this scope. Any definition of terms used within the scope of the application shall be interpreted as such within the scope of the application. Therefore, any limitations, elements, properties, characteristics, advantages, or attributes not described within the scope of the application should not be construed as limiting the scope of this application. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are for disclosure purposes only and not for limitation. 1000: Computer System 1002: Busbar 1004: Processor 1006: Main Memory 1008: Read-only memory (ROM) 1010: Storage device 1012: Monitor 1014: Input device 1016: Vernier Control 1018: Communication Interface 1020: Network Chain 1022: Local Area Network 1024: Mainframe PC 1026: Internet Service Provider (ISP) 1028: Internet 1030: Server

Claims

1. An audio decoding method, comprising: receiving an encoded bitstream, the encoded bitstream comprising: HE AAC version 1 or HE AAC version 2 encoded input audio data; The system includes: metadata indicating the loudness value of the dialogue portion of the input audio data; decoding the HE AAC version 1 or HE AAC version 2 encoded input audio data using a HE AAC version 1 or HE AAC version 2 decoder to provide decoded audio data; receiving a flag indicating whether loudness normalization should be performed on the decoded audio data; when the flag indicates that loudness normalization should be performed on the decoded audio data: obtaining a user-controlled target loudness value; retrieving the loudness value of the dialogue portion of the input audio data from the metadata; determining a loudness normalization adjustment value based on the user-controlled target loudness value and the loudness value of the dialogue portion of the input audio data; and applying the loudness normalization adjustment value to the decoded audio data to provide loudness-normalized output audio data; when the flag indicates that loudness normalization should not be performed on the decoded audio data: disabling loudness normalization and maintaining the decoded audio data unchanged during output.

2. An audio decoding system comprising one or more signal processing components configured to: receive an encoded bitstream, the encoded bitstream comprising: HE AAC version 1 or HE AAC version 2 encoded input audio data; The system includes: metadata indicating the loudness value of the dialogue portion of the input audio data; decoding the HE AAC version 1 or HE AAC version 2 encoded input audio data using a HE AAC version 1 or HE AAC version 2 decoder to provide decoded audio data; receiving a flag indicating whether loudness normalization should be performed on the decoded audio data; when the flag indicates that loudness normalization should be performed on the decoded audio data: obtaining a user-controlled target loudness value; retrieving the loudness value of the dialogue portion of the input audio data from the metadata; determining a loudness normalization adjustment value based on the user-controlled target loudness value and the loudness value of the dialogue portion of the input audio data; and applying the loudness normalization adjustment value to the decoded audio data to provide output audio data; when the flag indicates that loudness normalization should not be performed on the decoded audio data: disabling loudness normalization and outputting the decoded audio data unchanged.

3. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium containing a sequence of instructions that, when executed by one or more signal processing components, cause the one or more signal processing components to perform the method of claim 1.

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