Audio Data Reproduction Apparatus Multi-Channel Signal Preservation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional DVD reproduction apparatuses can only output two-channels of PCM audio data as IEC958 signals, losing Center, Left and Right rear surround, and Low Frequency Effect channels, and record signals subjected to virtual surround processing, failing to preserve original audio data when external equipment is used.

Innovation Solution

An audio data reproduction apparatus with a decoder circuit, postprocessing circuit, and multiple selectors to decode, process, and select audio streams and signals, allowing output of original 5.1 multi-channel audio data and preserving unprocessed audio when recording, using a configuration that includes a CPU, signal processing circuits, and an IEC958 transceiver to conform to telecommunications standards.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If postprocessing circuit performs virtual surround processing on 5.1 multi-channel audio data, then audio quality for stereo output is improved, but original multi-channel audio data is lost and cannot be output

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaudio qualityVSAvoidoriginal multi-channel audio data
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the audio signal processing into separate paths: one path processes audio data through the postprocessing circuit for stereo output, while another path preserves the original multi-channel audio data separately. This segmentation allows both processed and original audio data to coexist without interference, resolving the contradiction between improving audio quality and preserving original data.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a selector circuit as an intermediary between the postprocessing circuit and the output stage. This selector can choose to output either the processed stereo signal or the original multi-channel audio data, acting as a mediator that enables both functions without loss of information.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If IEC958 transceiver outputs only two-channels of PCM audio data, then signal format compatibility is improved, but Center, Left and Right rear surround, and Low Frequency Effect channels are lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal format compatibilityVSAvoidmulti-channel audio elements
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic switching capability where the system can adaptively change output formats based on requirements. The selector circuit dynamically switches between outputting processed two-channel audio for compatibility and original multi-channel audio for complete information preservation, allowing the system to respond to different operational contexts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If external equipment records IEC958 signal output, then portability and external processing capability are improved, but recorded signal contains virtual surround processing and not original sound

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveexternal processing capabilityVSAvoidoriginal sound data
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent prepares multiple output signal versions in advance before external recording occurs. By providing a selector that can choose between processed and original audio data prior to the recording action, the system ensures that external equipment can record the desired signal type (original or processed) without irreversible information loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS7496507B2Digitized audio data reproduction apparatus, and integrated circuit device to output audio signals
Publication Date: 2009.02.24 KK TOSHIBA
  • US7496507B2 patent drawing
  • US7496507B2 patent drawing
  • US7496507B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An audio data reproduction apparatus, integrated circuit device, and computer program product configured to implement a method for reproducing audio data that includes receiving an audio stream, decoding the audio stream, processing the audio stream or a signal produced by the decoding, selecting the signal produced by the decoding or a signal produced by the processing, and outputting the audio stream, the signal produced by the decoding, or the signal produced by the processing.