Audio Mixer Module for ASIO and WDM Signal Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control devices struggle to effectively mix and record audio signals processed under different standards, such as ASIO and WDM, leading to issues like howling due to signal loops when trying to combine and output mixed audio signals.
Innovation Solution
A mixer module or mixer driver is installed to facilitate the exchange of audio signals between drivers and applications of different standards, enabling the mixing and recording of ASIO and WDM audio signals within a single computer without creating signal loops, by operating in two modes to process and mix signals from both standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If audio signals from different standards (ASIO and WDM) are mixed and output through the same audio interface, then the functionality of supporting multiple standards is improved, but signal loops are created causing howling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mixer driver as an intermediary component between the ASIO and WDM drivers. This mixer driver receives audio signals from both standards, performs mixing operations, and outputs the combined signal. By positioning the mixer driver as a mediator in the signal path, the system can support multiple audio standards simultaneously while preventing direct signal loops that would cause howling, as the mixing process properly manages signal flow directions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a mixer driver is introduced to mix ASIO and WDM signals, then the ability to mix different audio standards is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mixer driver is designed with multi-functionality to handle both ASIO and WDM audio standards within a single component. Rather than requiring separate mixing systems for each standard, the universal mixer driver can process signals from either standard or both simultaneously, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining the ability to mix different audio standards.
Data Source
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AI summary
A control device is provided which mixes and records two types of audio signals processed under standards different from each other; in particular an audio signal of ASIO standard and an audio signal of WDM standard. An audio interface is connected to a computer, and an audio signal is input to the computer. A mixer module of the computer mixes an audio signal effect-processed by an ASIO application and an audio signal reproduced by a WDM application, outputs the mixed audio signal to the audio interface, and to the WDM application, and records the sound. The mixer module automatically switches between presence/absence of the effect process and between presence/absence of mixing according to a mode which is set in an operation panel.