Fast backup broadcast control system of frequency modulation transmitter

By integrating audio signal source switching and transmission frequency setting through the FPGA main control unit, rapid backup broadcast control of the FM transmitter is realized, which solves the problem of complex and error-prone backup transmitter switching in the existing technology and improves the continuity of broadcast signals and operational efficiency.

CN223514942UActive Publication Date: 2025-11-04广东省电视调频总台
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202422940331.5
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-11-29
Publication Date
2025-11-04
Estimated Expiration
2034-11-29

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The switching operation of existing FM broadcast backup transmitters is complex and cumbersome, prone to errors, leading to signal interruption or broadcast stoppage, and lacks rapid switching capability, affecting the continuity of broadcasts and service quality.

Method used

The system adopts an FPGA main control unit to integrate audio signal source switching, transmission frequency setting, and backup transmitter startup functions. Combined with modular design and efficient logic control, it enables one-click switching and quick start-up and shutdown, and supports local and remote operation.

Benefits of technology

It improves backup switching efficiency, ensures the continuity and stability of broadcast signals, simplifies operation procedures, reduces the risk of human error, supports flexible control in multiple scenarios, and saves equipment costs.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model discloses a fast backup broadcast control system of a frequency modulation transmitter. The fast backup broadcast control system comprises an FPGA main control unit, an eight-path AES audio input interface, an audio signal processing unit, a remote control panel, a duty room control module, a man-machine interaction unit, a transmitter frequency control module, a transmitter control and state feedback module and a frequency modulation backup transmitter, the FPGA main control unit is used as a core control module, is connected with each functional unit and realizes logic control; the audio signal processing unit comprises an AES audio switching module, an audio distribution module and an audio decoding and monitoring module and is used for managing switching, distribution and monitoring of audio signals; the remote control panel provides a remote control function outside a machine room for the system through the duty room control module; and the transmitter frequency control module and the transmitter control and state feedback module respectively realize frequency setting, startup and shutdown and state feedback of the frequency modulation backup transmitter. The utility model aims to quickly switch to the backup transmitter when the frequency modulation transmitter breaks down, thereby ensuring the continuity and safety of broadcasting.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of radio frequency broadcasting equipment technology, specifically to a rapid backup broadcast control system for an FM transmitter. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of the broadcasting industry, FM broadcasting plays an important role in public communication and emergency broadcasting. To ensure the continuity and security of broadcast signals and avoid signal interruptions or broadcast stoppages due to equipment failure, backup transmitters are usually required.

[0003] Currently, the switching operation of backup transmitters is mainly manual. When a broadcast transmitter malfunctions or requires routine maintenance, the on-duty personnel must gradually switch the audio signal source, adjust the transmission frequency, and start the backup transmitter. This process is complex and cumbersome, prone to errors, and places high demands on the technical skills of the on-duty personnel. Furthermore, manual switching usually requires shutting down the broadcast transmitter before activating the backup transmitter, inevitably causing a brief interruption of the broadcast signal. Especially in the event of a sudden failure, the lack of rapid switching capability can lead to prolonged broadcast interruptions, affecting broadcast continuity and service quality. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This utility model aims to solve, at least to some extent, one of the technical problems in related technologies. By utilizing the fast parallel processing capability of FPGA technology, it enables one-click switching of audio signal sources and setting of transmission frequency, as well as one-click activation of backup transmitters. Through efficient logic control, it achieves rapid switching of backup transmitters, greatly reducing manual operation time and avoiding misoperation, thus ensuring safe broadcasting.

[0005] Therefore, one objective of this utility model is to propose a rapid backup broadcast control system for an FM transmitter, comprising: an FPGA main control unit, an 8-channel AES audio input interface, an audio signal processing unit, a remote control panel, a duty room control module, a human-machine interaction unit, a transmitter frequency control module, a transmitter control and status feedback module, and an FM backup transmitter;

[0006] The FPGA main control unit is connected to the duty room control module, audio signal processing unit, human-computer interaction unit, transmitter frequency control module and transmitter control and status feedback module respectively.

[0007] The remote control panel is connected to the duty room control module;

[0008] The transmitter frequency control module and the transmitter control and status feedback module are respectively connected to the frequency modulation backup transmitter;

[0009] The audio signal processing unit includes: an AES audio switching module, an audio distribution module, and an audio decoding and monitoring module;

[0010] The eight AES audio input interfaces are connected to the AES audio switching module, which is connected to the audio distribution module. The audio distribution module is connected to the audio decoding monitoring module and the FM backup transmitter, respectively.

[0011] Preferably, the remote control panel is installed in the equipment room control room for local monitoring and operation of the FM backup transmitter.

[0012] Preferably, the duty room control module includes a signal conversion circuit and a communication interface, which are connected to the FPGA main control unit and the remote control panel to realize the reception and transmission of remote control signals between the remote control panel and the system.

[0013] Preferably, the human-machine interaction unit includes: buttons and LEDs, which are respectively connected to the FPGA main control unit to realize manual operation of the transmitter switch and status display.

[0014] Preferably, the transmitter frequency control module includes an interface circuit and a filter connected to the FPGA main control unit. The filter is connected to the FM backup transmitter and is used to adjust the transmitter frequency parameters.

[0015] Preferably, the transmitter control and status feedback module includes an opto-isolation circuit and an interface circuit; the opto-isolation circuit is connected to the FPGA main control unit, and the interface circuit is connected to the frequency modulation backup transmitter to realize power-on / off control and status feedback.

[0016] Preferably, the AES audio switching module includes an AES audio input interface, an AES audio output interface, a relay group, and a drive circuit;

[0017] The AES audio input interface is connected to the relay group, and the output of the relay group is connected to the AES audio output interface.

[0018] The relay group is controlled by a drive circuit connected to the FPGA main control unit. The drive circuit receives control signals to drive the relay group to switch AES audio signals. The relay group can achieve rapid switching of audio signals within 50ms, avoiding safety broadcast accidents caused by signal interruption.

[0019] Preferably, the audio distribution module includes an audio input terminal, two audio output terminals, and a signal distribution circuit; the audio input terminal receives audio signals and distributes the input signals to the two audio output terminals through the signal distribution circuit.

[0020] Preferably, the audio decoding and monitoring module includes an AES signal input interface, a decoding circuit, a power amplifier circuit, and a speaker;

[0021] The AES signal input interface is connected to the decoding circuit;

[0022] The decoding circuit is connected to the power amplifier circuit;

[0023] The power amplifier circuit is connected to the speaker and is used to amplify and monitor the AES audio signal.

[0024] The above-described solution of this utility model has at least the following beneficial effects:

[0025] Improve backup switching efficiency and ensure broadcast continuity. The system integrates audio switching, frequency setting, and power on / off control functions through the FPGA main control unit, enabling rapid switching of backup transmitters, significantly shortening switching time, and ensuring the continuity of broadcast signals.

[0026] The system simplifies the operation process and reduces the risk of manual intervention. By combining a human-computer interaction unit and a duty room control module, duty personnel can easily switch backup transmitters, avoiding cumbersome manual settings and reducing operational difficulty and the risk of human error.

[0027] Rapid response to sudden failures. In the event of a failure or broadcast interruption of the main transmitter, the system can quickly activate the backup transmitter, achieving seamless signal switching, effectively reducing the possibility of broadcast interruptions and improving emergency response capabilities.

[0028] Optimize resource allocation and save equipment costs. The system supports multiple programs sharing a single backup transmitter, eliminating the need for separate backup equipment for each program, effectively reducing equipment configuration and maintenance costs, and improving economic efficiency.

[0029] Supports flexible control across multiple scenarios. The system provides both local and remote operation capabilities to adapt to backup broadcasting needs in different scenarios, and has excellent scalability, allowing for the flexible addition of functional modules as needed to further enhance application value.

[0030] Additional aspects and advantages of this invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0031] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0032] Figure 1 This is a flowchart of the FM transmitter rapid backup broadcast control system provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0033] Figure 2 This is a flowchart of the duty room control module provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0034] Figure 3 This is a circuit diagram of the human-computer interaction unit provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0035] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of the transmitter frequency control module provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0036] Figure 5 This is a flowchart of the transmitter control and status feedback module provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0037] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of the AES audio switching module provided in this embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 7 This is a circuit diagram of the audio distribution module provided in this embodiment of the utility model;

[0039] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of the audio decoding and monitoring module provided in this embodiment of the utility model.

[0040] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of this utility model will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0041] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments described are only some examples of this utility model, and other implementation methods that are within the scope of ordinary knowledge of those skilled in the art and have not undergone creative effort should also fall within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0042] The following describes in detail, with reference to the accompanying drawings, the FM transmitter rapid backup broadcast control system of this utility model embodiment.

[0043] Please see Figure 1This utility model provides a rapid backup broadcast control system for an FM transmitter, including: an FPGA main control unit, an 8-channel AES audio input interface, an audio signal processing unit, a remote control panel, a duty room control module, a human-machine interaction unit, a transmitter frequency control module, a transmitter control and status feedback module, and an FM backup transmitter.

[0044] The FPGA main control unit is the core control module of the system, connecting to the duty room control module, audio signal processing unit, human-machine interaction unit, transmitter frequency control module, and transmitter control and status feedback module. This embodiment uses Altera's Cyclone IV series EP4CE10F17C8N FPGA chip, but it is not limited to this; other FPGA chips with similar functions can also be used.

[0045] Specifically, the remote control panel is connected to the FPGA main control unit via the duty room control module for local monitoring and operation of the FM backup transmitter. The transmitter frequency control module and transmitter control and status feedback module are respectively connected to the FM backup transmitter to implement transmitter frequency setting, power on / off control, and status feedback functions. The audio signal processing unit includes an AES audio switching module, an audio distribution module, and an audio decoding monitoring module. Eight AES audio input interfaces are connected to the AES audio switching module. The switched signal is distributed through the audio distribution module to the audio decoding monitoring module and the FM backup transmitter, enabling audio signal switching, distribution, and quality monitoring.

[0046] High-efficiency control and enhanced system flexibility. The FPGA main control unit utilizes its high-speed parallel processing capabilities to simultaneously process audio signals, frequency parameters, and transmitter start / stop and status feedback, ensuring rapid system response and stable operation. Furthermore, the FPGA's programmability supports system function expansion and future upgrades, enhancing system flexibility and adaptability.

[0047] Modular design improves system efficiency. The system adopts a modular design, with each module functioning independently, but coordinated uniformly through an FPGA. The audio signal processing unit realizes multi-channel switching, distribution, and quality monitoring of audio signals; a dedicated module is responsible for the frequency setting and start / stop operation of the FM backup transmitter, thereby improving the system's reliability and operational efficiency.

[0048] Operating from outside the computer room improves on-duty efficiency. The system enables operation from outside the computer room through the control module in the duty room, and supports local control with a remote control panel, providing on-duty personnel with flexible equipment operation capabilities. This design reduces the inconvenience of frequent entry and exit from the computer room, improves operational efficiency, reduces the risk of misoperation, and ensures the stable operation of the system.

[0049] To ensure the continuity and stability of broadcast signals, the system can quickly switch to the backup transmitter in the event of a malfunction or maintenance of the main transmitter. Simultaneously, the audio signal is monitored in real time via the audio decoding and monitoring module to ensure uninterrupted broadcasting and effectively reduce potential negative impacts.

[0050] Please see the appendix Figure 2 In this embodiment, the duty room control module consists of an SP3232 chip and a serial-to-fiber optic module. Its structure and function are designed as follows: The ROUT and DIN pins of the SP3232 chip are connected to the RXD and TXD pins of the FPGA main control unit, respectively, for receiving and sending control signals from the FPGA. The TTL control level output by the FPGA is converted into a differential signal by the SP3232 chip, and then connected to the TX and RX pins of the serial-to-fiber optic module via the RIN and DOUT pins. The serial-to-fiber optic module then converts the differential signal into an optical signal, which is finally connected to the remote control panel via a fiber optic interface, enabling remote communication between the remote control panel and the FPGA main control unit.

[0051] This module uses an FPGA main control unit to transmit, receive, and process control signals. The SP3232 chip converts signal levels to differential form to ensure transmission stability. The serial-to-fiber optic module converts electrical signals into optical signals, enabling long-distance, highly interference-resistant fiber optic communication. The fiber optic connection not only avoids signal attenuation issues associated with traditional cable transmission but also effectively mitigates the risk of damage to the equipment from severe weather conditions such as lightning strikes.

[0052] Please see the appendix Figure 3 In this embodiment, the human-machine interface unit consists of buttons, LEDs, and peripheral circuitry, used to enable user operation and status monitoring of the system. Buttons KEY1 to KEY8 are connected to I / O ports 1 to 8 of the FPGA, respectively, and are pulled up to a 3.3V power supply through a series 1kΩ resistor, enabling the FPGA to accurately recognize button trigger signals. Users can switch audio signal source outputs and set transmitter frequencies using the buttons.

[0053] LEDs 1 to 8 are connected to I / O ports 9 to 16 of the FPGA, respectively, to display the output status of the audio signal source and the transmitter frequency status in real time. LEDs 9 and 10 are connected to I / O ports 17 and 18 of the FPGA, respectively, to indicate the transmitter's power-on / off control status and Enable status. Buttons KEY9 and KEY10 are connected to I / O ports 19 and 20 of the FPGA, respectively. Button 9 is used for one-button control of the transmitter's power-on / off, and button KEY10 acts as an Enable button to control the validity of other button functions.

[0054] The Enable function is confirmed by triggering button KEY10 and illuminating LED 10. Operations using buttons KEY1 to KEY9 will only take effect when the Enable function is activated. This design effectively avoids the risk of accidental operation due to accidental touch during broadcasting from the backup transmitter, improving the system's safety and reliability.

[0055] Please see the appendix Figure 4 In this embodiment, the transmitter frequency control module consists of a DB25 interface and a filter, used to achieve stable transmission of the frequency control signal. Pins 1 to 23 of the DB25 interface are connected to I / O ports 1 to 23 of the FPGA, respectively, to receive the frequency control signal output by the FPGA. Pin 24 is connected to a 3.3V power supply, and pin 25 is grounded. The output pins OUT1 to OUT25 of the DB25 interface are connected to the IN1 to IN25 pins of the filter, respectively. After filtering the frequency control signal, the signal is transmitted to the FM backup transmitter. The filter effectively removes high-frequency noise and interference from the signal, ensuring the stability and reliability of the frequency control signal, thereby guaranteeing the frequency adjustment accuracy of the FM backup transmitter and improving the system's anti-interference capability.

[0056] Please see the appendix Figure 5 In this embodiment, the transmitter control and status feedback module is used to control the on / off state of the FM backup transmitter and monitor its operating status in real time. This module consists of a TLP521-4GB optocoupler chip, a CN1 connector, and a CN2 connector, and uses opto-isolation technology to ensure the security and anti-interference performance of control and status signal transmission.

[0057] Specifically, PIN5 and PIN7 of the TLP521-4GB chip are connected to I / O ports 1 and 2 of the FPGA, respectively, to receive switch control signals and output them to the CN1 connector after optocoupler isolation. C1 and C2 of the CN1 connector are connected to the P1 and P2 interfaces of the transmitter, respectively. The transmitter is turned on when P1 receives a high-level signal and turned off when P2 receives a low-level signal.

[0058] Simultaneously, the transmitter's status signal is transmitted via the CN2 connector to pins 14 and 16 of the TLP521-4GB chip, and then connected to FPGA I / O ports 3 and 4 after optocoupler isolation. C1 and C2 of the CN2 connector are connected to the transmitter's S1 and S2 interfaces, respectively. A high level on S1 indicates the transmitter is on, and a low level on S2 indicates the transmitter is off. The FPGA drives status indicator LED9 (see appendix) by acquiring the S1 and S2 status signals. Figure 3 When the transmitter is turned on, LED9 lights up; when the transmitter is turned off, LED9 turns off.

[0059] Please see the appendix Figure 6 In this embodiment, the AES audio switching module is used to switch, distribute, and monitor audio signals, ensuring that the audio signal source input to the FM transmitter is accurate. This module mainly consists of a ULQ2804A chip, relay groups K1 to K8, an AES audio input interface, and an AES audio output interface.

[0060] The IN1 to IN8 pins of the ULQ2804A chip are connected to the IO1 to IO8 ports of the FPGA, respectively, to receive control signals from the FPGA. The OUT1 to OUT8 pins of the chip are connected to the coil control ports (RL1 to RL8) of relay groups K1 to K8. The common ports (COM1 to COM8) of relay groups K1 to K8 are connected to the AES audio input interfaces AES1 to AES8, respectively, to receive multiple audio signal inputs. The normally open ports (NO1 to NO8) are connected in parallel to the AES audio output interface AES OUT.

[0061] Controlled by the FPGA, the ULQ2804A chip drives corresponding relays to close, thereby switching the selected AES audio signal. The signal is then transmitted to the transmitter via the AES audio output interface, achieving correct selection and switching of the audio signal. The use of relays effectively isolates different audio signals, preventing signal interference between different channels and ensuring the integrity and stability of the output signal. This module's design guarantees reliable switching of multiple audio signals, preventing broadcast accidents caused by incorrect audio signal input, and providing stable and secure support for the system's audio switching and monitoring.

[0062] Please see the appendix Figure 7 The audio distribution module in this embodiment consists of three THVD1450 chips, connectors H1 to H3, and related connection circuits. It is used to split one AES signal into two, enabling audio signal monitoring and input to the transmitter. The module utilizes the differential signal reception and transmission functions of the THVD1450 chip to ensure the stability and high fidelity of the audio signal distribution.

[0063] Specifically, connector H1 is used to input AES signals. After the signal is received by the THVD1450DR1 chip, it is distributed to the THVD1450DR2 and THVD1450DR3 chips. The RE and DE pins of the THVD1450DR1 are pulled down to ground, configured in differential signal reception mode, used to receive the input signal and transmit it to the subsequent stage through internal logic. The RE and DE pins of the THVD1450DR2 and THVD1450DR3 are pulled up to 3.3V, configured in differential signal transmission mode, outputting the received signals to connectors H2 and H3 respectively, forming two independent audio signals for use by monitoring equipment and transmitters. This differential transmission design effectively improves the anti-interference performance and transmission stability of the audio signal, providing reliable support for audio monitoring and signal distribution in broadcast systems.

[0064] Please see the appendix Figure 8 The audio decoding and monitoring module in this embodiment consists of an AES signal input interface, a CS8416 decoding chip, a PCM5102A decoding chip, a power amplifier chip, and a speaker. It is used to decode the AES signal into an analog audio signal and output it through the speaker for monitoring.

[0065] Specifically, pins 2 and 3 of the AES signal input interface are connected to the RXP0 and RXN pins of the CS8416 decoding chip, respectively, while pin 1 is grounded, decoding the input AES signal into an I2S format audio signal. The OLRCK, OSCLK, SDOUT, and RMCK pins of the CS8416 decoding chip are connected to the LRCK, SCK, DIN, and BCK pins of the PCM5102A decoding chip, respectively, thus allowing the PCM5102A decoding chip to convert the I2S signal into an analog signal. The OUTL and OUTR pins of the PCM5102A decoding chip output analog audio signals for the left and right channels, which are connected to the INL and INR pins of the power amplifier chip, respectively. After amplification by the power amplifier chip, these signals drive the speakers to output audio signals for real-time monitoring.

[0066] The above description is merely an illustrative example of the present utility model, intended to help understand the core idea of ​​the present utility model, and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present utility model. The scope of protection of the present utility model shall be determined by the claims. Any structure or method with the same or similar function formed by equivalent substitution or modification based on the core idea and technical solution of the present utility model shall fall within the scope of protection of the present utility model.

[0067] In the description of this specification, the terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," and "specific example" are used to refer to specific features, structures, or methods related to that embodiment or example, which can be combined and adapted to other embodiments or examples of this utility model. Furthermore, those skilled in the art can combine and utilize the different embodiments or technical features described in this specification in an appropriate manner according to actual needs, forming a wider range of application scenarios or functional extensions.

Claims

1. A rapid backup broadcast control system for an FM transmitter, characterized in that, include: FPGA main control unit, 8-channel AES audio input interface, audio signal processing unit, remote control panel, duty room control module, human-machine interaction unit, transmitter frequency control module, transmitter control and status feedback module and FM backup transmitter; The FPGA main control unit is connected to the duty room control module, audio signal processing unit, human-computer interaction unit, transmitter frequency control module and transmitter control and status feedback module respectively. The remote control panel is connected to the duty room control module; The transmitter frequency control module and the transmitter control and status feedback module are respectively connected to the frequency modulation backup transmitter; The audio signal processing unit includes an AES audio switching module, an audio distribution module, and an audio decoding and monitoring module. The eight AES audio input interfaces are connected to the AES audio switching module, which is connected to the audio distribution module. The audio distribution module is connected to the audio decoding monitoring module and the FM backup transmitter, respectively.

2. The FM transmitter rapid backup broadcast control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The remote control panel is installed in the equipment room control room and is used for local monitoring and operation of the FM backup transmitter.

3. The FM transmitter rapid backup broadcast control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The duty room control module includes a signal conversion circuit and a communication interface, which are connected to the FPGA main control unit and the remote control panel to realize the reception and transmission of remote control signals between the remote control panel and the system.

4. The FM transmitter rapid backup broadcast control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The human-computer interaction unit includes buttons and LEDs, which are respectively connected to the FPGA main control unit to realize manual operation of the transmitter switch and status display.

5. The FM transmitter rapid backup broadcast control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transmitter frequency control module includes an interface circuit and a filter connected to the FPGA main control unit. The filter is connected to the frequency modulation backup transmitter and is used to adjust the transmitter frequency parameters.

6. The FM transmitter rapid backup broadcast control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transmitter control and status feedback module includes an opto-isolation circuit and an interface circuit; The opto-isolation circuit is connected to the FPGA main control unit, and the interface circuit is connected to the frequency modulation backup transmitter to realize power-on / off control and status feedback.

7. The FM transmitter rapid backup broadcast control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The AES audio switching module includes an AES audio input interface, an AES audio output interface, a relay group, and a drive circuit; The AES audio input interface is connected to the relay group, and the output of the relay group is connected to the AES audio output interface. The relay group is controlled by a drive circuit, which is connected to the FPGA main control unit and is used to receive control signals to drive the relay group to switch AES audio signals.

8. The FM transmitter rapid backup broadcast control system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The audio distribution module includes an audio input terminal, two audio output terminals, and a signal distribution circuit; the audio input terminal receives audio signals and distributes the input signals to the two audio output terminals through the signal distribution circuit.

9. A rapid backup broadcast control system for an FM transmitter according to claim 1, characterized in that, The audio decoding and monitoring module includes an AES signal input interface, a decoding circuit, a power amplifier circuit, and a speaker; The AES signal input interface is connected to the decoding circuit; The decoding circuit is connected to the power amplifier circuit; The power amplifier circuit is connected to the speaker and is used to amplify and monitor the AES audio signal.