Distributed Audio DSP Load Balancing Across Endpoints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Centralized digital signal processing (DSP) in audio systems is limited by processing speed, bandwidth, capacity, and temperature constraints, leading to inefficiencies and reliance on a single device for all processing tasks.
Innovation Solution
Distribute DSP features across multiple networked audio devices using load-balancing, allowing endpoints to perform DSP in addition to or instead of a centralized aggregator, based on system requirements and device capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a centralized processor performs all DSP tasks, then audio processing can be simplified and controlled centrally, but the processor becomes overloaded and limited by processing speed, bandwidth, capacity, and temperature constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized DSP workload by enabling individual endpoints to perform specific DSP features locally. The system divides processing tasks across multiple devices, with each endpoint capable of handling certain DSP functions independently while others remain centralized, thereby distributing the processing burden and avoiding overload on any single processor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-dimension centralized processing model to a multi-dimensional distributed processing architecture. By adding the dimension of distributed endpoint processing, the system expands the processing capacity beyond the limitations of a single centralized processor while maintaining coordinated control through the aggregator.
2Device complexity
If a centralized processor handles all DSP features, then system configuration is simplified, but the system lacks scalability and robustness when adding more endpoints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adaptability where the system can automatically adjust DSP feature distribution based on the number and capabilities of connected endpoints. When new endpoints are added, the aggregator dynamically determines which DSP features should be performed locally at each endpoint versus centrally, allowing the system to scale efficiently without requiring complete reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by enabling endpoints to selectively perform DSP features based on their capabilities and current system conditions. The aggregator monitors system state and adjusts the distribution of DSP tasks, changing parameters such as processing location, feature enablement, and resource allocation to optimize performance as the system scales.
3Use of energy by moving object
If all DSP features are performed by the aggregator, then device capabilities are not utilized, but distributing DSP across endpoints increases device complexity and coordination requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables endpoints to perform self-service DSP processing for certain features based on their local capabilities. Each endpoint can independently execute DSP functions assigned to it, utilizing its own processing resources without requiring constant aggregator intervention. This self-service capability improves processing efficiency by leveraging distributed device capabilities while the aggregator maintains high-level coordination.
Data Source
AI summary
Digital signal processing (DSP) may be distributed across a plurality of endpoints and one or more aggregators in an audio system. One or more aggregators may perform selected DSP features and/or may control selected DSP features for performance by one or more endpoints, by load-balancing the DSP features across the endpoint(s) and/or the aggregator(s). Links may be established between the aggregator(s) and the endpoint(s) to communicate audio signals and related information for performing the DSP features.