Audio Echo Modulation for Imperceptible Data Embedding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing signal processing technologies face challenges in encoding data within audio or video signals without making the encoding perceptible, especially when the encoded content signal is reproduced, and in effectively handling noise during transmission.
Innovation Solution
The method involves echo modulation by adding imperceptible echoes to digital audio signals, using Bender's echo hiding technique, which allows for error correction and transparent data embedding, enabling the recovery of encoded bits during decoding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If data is encoded into the content signal, then data embedding capability is improved, but the encoding becomes perceptible when reproduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by modifying only specific portions of the audio signal that are least perceptible to human hearing. The encoding process identifies time-frequency regions where modifications will have minimal impact on perceived audio quality, thereby embedding data while maintaining imperceptibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by adjusting audio signal parameters such as volume, pitch, or timing of specific sound segments to encode data. These parameter modifications are designed to be within the threshold of human perception, allowing data embedding without noticeable degradation of audio quality.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If echo modulation is used to embed data imperceptibly, then encoding imperceptibility is improved, but reliability of data recovery in noisy conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the encoded signal is analyzed to detect and correct errors that occur during transmission or storage. The system uses the known structure of embedded data patterns to identify corrupted segments and recover the original information, thereby maintaining reliability despite noisy conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by incorporating error correction codes and redundancy into the embedded data structure before transmission. This pre-prepared protection allows the system to withstand noise and interference during transmission while maintaining data integrity and recoverability.
3Reliability
If error correction methods are added to handle noise, then data recovery reliability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces intermediary components such as error detection and correction algorithms that act as mediators between the encoded signal and the decoding process. These intermediaries systematically identify and correct errors without requiring complex re-encoding or re-transmission, thereby improving reliability with controlled increases in processing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for echo modulation are described. In one embodiment, intensities of a plurality of values in multiple windows of an audio signal may be obtained. The windows may be subject to a periodic boundary condition. A plurality of echo values may be calculated for each of the respective windows. The audio signal may be altered in one or more of the windows using a windowing function and echo values. Additional methods and systems are disclosed.