Audio Master Device Selection for Synchronized Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing audio systems with networked devices face challenges in providing synchronized audio outputs due to limitations in network characteristics and device capabilities, particularly when using both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth protocols, leading to airtime constraints and potential audio irregularities like stuttering.
Innovation Solution
The system determines a suitable master audio device within a group of devices based on signal quality, device capabilities, and communication data to efficiently distribute audio data, using multicast transmissions and access points to manage airtime and resources effectively, thereby ensuring stable synchronized audio output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a device uses both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth protocols simultaneously, then communication versatility is improved, but airtime constraints and audio irregularities worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a master device as an intermediary that receives audio data from the source device and redistributes it to slave devices. This mediator approach allows the system to separate the audio distribution function from devices that are handling Bluetooth communications, thereby resolving the airtime conflict between Wi-Fi and Bluetooth protocols while maintaining communication versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the audio distribution task by designating one device as master and others as slaves. The master device handles audio data reception and distribution, while slave devices focus on audio playback. This segmentation allows devices with Bluetooth connections to avoid the burden of audio distribution, resolving the contradiction between protocol versatility and audio stability
2Productivity
If audio data is distributed to multiple devices, then audio system capability is improved, but network congestion and airtime usage worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by having the master device receive and process audio data before distribution. The master device prepares the audio stream in advance and manages the timing of distributions to slave devices, which optimizes network usage and prevents congestion while maintaining high audio distribution capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where devices report their connection status and capabilities to the master device. The master device uses this feedback information to optimize audio data distribution, adjusting transmission parameters to minimize airtime consumption while maintaining audio quality across multiple devices
3Area of stationary object
If devices are positioned at distant locations, then system coverage area is improved, but signal quality and synchronization worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The master device acts as a centralized intermediary that maintains precise timing and synchronization. By concentrating the synchronization function in the master device that receives audio data directly from the source, the system can maintain audio synchronization precision even when slave devices are positioned at distant locations with varying signal qualities
Data Source
AI summary
Described are techniques for configuring a group of audio devices to distribute audio data based on the communications undertaken by the audio devices. Audio devices that are not currently exchanging data via a communication link with an external device may be prioritized for use as a master device over other audio devices that may consume airtime or other resources performing such communications. Audio devices that lack communication links with external devices may be prioritized for use as a master device over other audio devices that maintain such communication links. If the communication links associated with a current master device or other audio devices change, a different master device may be automatically selected.