Low Latency Audio Codec Parameter Quantization
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Solution Overview
Problem
In audio codecs with short frame periods, side information (parameters) are oversampled if updated in every frame, leading to inefficiencies in bit rate management, as they do not need to be updated as frequently as the audio essence.
Innovation Solution
A method of frame-wise encoding metadata that iteratively determines a processing strategy for calculating and quantizing parameters, using techniques like time-differential and frequency-differential coding, to minimize the transmission of side information while maintaining a high frame update rate for audio essence, by selecting an optimal quantization scheme that balances bit rate requirements and mitigates packet loss artifacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If parameters are updated in every frame to maintain high frame update rate, then audio essence can be updated frequently, but side information becomes oversampled and bit rate increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments parameters into different update rates based on their importance and temporal characteristics. Critical parameters are updated every frame, while less critical parameters are updated at lower rates (e.g., every 2nd or 4th frame). This segmentation allows the system to maintain high overall frame update rates while reducing the total volume of side information transmitted.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic parameter updates where different parameter groups are updated at different intervals. Instead of updating all parameters every frame, the system uses periodic updates with varying periods for different parameter types, matching the actual temporal requirements of each parameter and reducing redundant transmissions.
2Reliability
If all parameters are transmitted in every frame, then complete side information is available, but bit rate management becomes inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and transmits only the essential parameters needed for accurate audio reconstruction at each frame, rather than transmitting all parameters. By identifying and removing redundant parameter information that can be inferred or is less critical, the system maintains side information completeness for what matters while significantly reducing bit rate consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically changes parameter representation based on current audio conditions and bitrate constraints. Parameters are selectively updated or omitted based on their current importance, allowing the system to maintain reliability when needed while optimizing bit rate usage under different operating conditions.
3Productivity
If parameter update rate matches frame rate for short frame periods, then audio essence is updated frequently, but parameters are oversampled
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic parameter update rates that adapt to the actual temporal characteristics of different parameter types. Instead of a fixed update rate matching frame rate, the system dynamically adjusts which parameters are updated in each frame based on their actual change rates and importance, improving processing efficiency while maintaining audio quality.
Data Source
AI summary
Described is a method of frame-wise encoding metadata for an input signal, the metadata comprising a plurality of at least partially interrelated parameters calculable from the input signal. The method comprises, for each frame: iteratively performing, by using a looping process, steps of: determining a processing strategy from a plurality of processing strategies for calculating and quantizing the parameters; calculating and quantizing the parameters based on the determined processing strategy to obtain quantized parameters; and encoding the quantized parameters. In particular, each of the plurality of processing strategies comprises a respective first indication indicative of an ordering related to the calculation and quantization of individual parameters; and the processing strategy is determined based on at least one bitrate threshold.