Audio and MIDI Signal Transmission via Time-Division Multiplexing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interfaces, such as HDMI and USB, do not support simultaneous stable transmission of audio and MIDI signals, leading to issues with latency and data loss, particularly in computer-based systems where performance depends on device drivers and software.
Innovation Solution
A transmission device and method that consecutively transmits audio and MIDI signals through predetermined units via various transmission paths, including coaxial, optical, HDMI, and Ethernet cables, using sub-frame units to ensure stable simultaneous transmission by inserting MIDI signals with identification information and dividing packet data to fit within data payload areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If computer-based USB or HDMI interfaces are used for simultaneous transmission of audio and MIDI signals, then device compatibility and ease of operation are improved, but latency and data loss occur due to dependence on device drivers and software
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission data is segmented into distinct frames, with even-numbered frames dedicated to audio signals and odd-numbered frames dedicated to MIDI signals. This segmentation allows independent processing and transmission of each signal type, eliminating software dependency and ensuring real-time transmission stability while maintaining ease of operation through standardized interface protocols.
2Reliability
If MIDI packet data is transmitted without division, then data integrity is maintained, but transmission fails when packet data exceeds the data payload area capacity
Solution Approach 1:
MIDI packet data exceeding the data payload area capacity is divided into multiple segments and transmitted across multiple odd-numbered frames. Each segment maintains its integrity through proper framing and sequencing, enabling transmission of large MIDI packets while adapting to the fixed capacity constraints of the transmission interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission system adds a temporal dimension by distributing packet segments across multiple time slots (frames). This allows the system to transmit data larger than the spatial capacity of a single frame by utilizing the time dimension, effectively increasing adaptability without compromising data integrity through proper reassembly at the receiving end.
3Adaptability or versatility
If audio and MIDI signals are transmitted simultaneously through the same interface, then channel versatility is improved, but signal interference and data loss occur
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission interface is segmented into even-numbered frames for audio signals and odd-numbered frames for MIDI signals. This time-division multiplexing approach allows simultaneous transmission of both signal types through the same physical interface while preventing signal interference and ensuring reliable transmission by dedicating specific time slots to each signal type.
Data Source
AI summary
A new interface is provided that supports simultaneous transmission of an audio signal and a MIDI signal. Signals consecutive in predetermined units are transmitted to a reception side via a predetermined transmission path. The signals consecutive in the predetermined units include a signal of a first predetermined unit of the predetermined units including an audio signal and a signal of a second predetermined unit of the predetermined units including a MIDI signal. For example, the audio signal is a linear PCM signal constituting a stereo 2-channel audio signal. For example, the MIDI signal includes packet data of a predetermined length, and the packet data of the predetermined length is divided into a plurality of pieces, and transmitted by being included in signals of a plurality of pieces of the second predetermined units.