Audio Mixer Module for ASIO and WDM Signal Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing audio signal processing systems face issues with howling and sound drop-outs when mixing ASIO and WDM audio signals, as they operate under different standards, leading to inefficient data buffering and processing loops.
Innovation Solution
A control device with a mixer module that processes and mixes ASIO and WDM audio signals by using separate processors and buffer memories, allowing for parallel notifications and data exchange to prevent sound drop-outs and howling, while maintaining compatibility between different audio standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the mixed audio signal is returned from the audio interface to the computer for recording, then the mixed audio signal can be recorded, but a loop is created causing howling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the audio signal processing into separate ASIO and WDM signal paths. The ASIO application processes microphone signals while the WDM application processes music signals, and they are mixed at the output stage rather than creating a feedback loop. This segmentation prevents the harmful feedback loop that causes howling while maintaining recording capability.
2Productivity
If buffering of data cannot be appropriately executed in each step of the process, then data may become insufficient at the final stage, but sound drop-out is caused
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary buffering actions at each processing stage. Buffer memories are prepared in advance at the ASIO application, mixer module, and WDM application stages to ensure data availability. This preliminary action prevents data insufficiency and sound drop-out while maintaining efficient processing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate processors are used for ASIO and WDM audio signals, then mixing can be achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mixer module is designed with multi-functionality to handle both ASIO and WDM audio signal standards. It can selectively switch between different processing modes: processing only ASIO signals, processing only WDM signals, or mixing both ASIO and WDM signals simultaneously. This universality reduces device complexity compared to having completely separate processing systems for each standard.
Data Source
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AI summary
A control device is provided which mixes and outputs 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 which is 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 also outputs the mixed audio signal to the WDM application and records the sound. In each step of the process, double buffering is used to reduce sound drop-out.