Audio Mixer Module for ASIO and WDM Signal Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control devices struggle to 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 record mixed audio signals.
Innovation Solution
A control device with a mixer module that processes and mixes ASIO and WDM audio signals, allowing for the creation of a mixed audio signal that can be recorded without creating signal loops, by using a processor for each standard and a mixing processor to combine the signals, along with a mode selection switch for different operation modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If audio signals from different standards (ASIO and WDM) are mixed and recorded within the same computer, then recording functionality is improved, but signal loops causing howling occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mixing processor as an intermediary component between the ASIO processor and WDM processor. This mixing processor receives audio signals from both processors, mixes them together, and outputs the combined signal. By inserting this intermediary mixing stage, the system enables integration of different audio standards while preventing direct signal loops that would cause howling, as the mixing processor acts as a controlled convergence point rather than allowing uncontrolled feedback paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the audio processing system into distinct functional modules: an ASIO processor for handling ASIO-standard audio signals, a WDM processor for handling WDM-standard audio signals, and a separate mixing processor for combining them. This segmentation allows each processor to operate independently with its own signal path, preventing interference and signal loops between different standards while still enabling mixed output through the dedicated mixing stage.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple audio processors handling different standards are used, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mixing processor serves multiple functions within the system: it receives and processes ASIO audio signals, receives and processes WDM audio signals, mixes these different signal types together, and outputs the combined result. By designing this single component to handle multiple audio standards and perform mixing operations, the patent reduces the need for separate dedicated processors for each function, thereby managing system complexity while maintaining support for multiple audio standards.
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AI summary
A 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 which is effect-processed by an ASIO application and an audio signal which is reproduced by a WDM application, outputs the mixed signal to the audio interface, supplies the mixed audio signal to the WDM application, and records the sound.