Audio Channel Mixing GUI for Spatial Surround Signal Distribution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing audio mixing techniques are inadequate for distributing multiple input channel signals among multiple output channel signals, particularly when preserving spatial relationships between channel signals, as they primarily focus on single input channel signal distribution and lack clear methods for managing spatial relationships between multiple input channel signals.

Innovation Solution

A graphical user interface (GUI) with multiple indicators that adjust based on distance and angle between positions, allowing users to mix multiple input channel signals into multiple output channel signals by varying the positions of these indicators, which influences the distribution of signal intensity across output channels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional panning knobs are used to distribute a single input channel signal among two output channel signals, then the signal distribution is simple and intuitive, but the method is inadequate for distributing multiple input channel signals among multiple output channel signals while preserving spatial relationships

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecapability to distribute multiple input channel signals among multiple output channel signalsVSAvoidcomplexity of mixing interface and control mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from one-dimensional linear panning controls to a two-dimensional circular interface where indicators can be positioned at any angle and distance from the center. This dimensional expansion enables simultaneous control of multiple input channel signals distributed among multiple output channel signals (e.g., surround sound configurations), preserving spatial relationships through radial positioning while maintaining interface intuitiveness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Measurement precision

If multiple indicators are added to represent multiple input channel signals, then the spatial relationships can be preserved and manipulated, but the interface complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprecision of spatial relationship representationVSAvoidnumber of indicators and control elements

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the circular mixing interface universal by enabling it to handle any number of input channel signals and output channel signals through a consistent radial positioning mechanism. Each indicator represents an input channel signal, and its position (angle and distance) universally determines distribution to multiple output channels simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate controls for each signal pair.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic interactivity where indicators can be freely repositioned within the circular interface, and the system dynamically recalculates signal distribution in real-time based on indicator positions. This dynamic response allows precise spatial relationship representation without requiring complex pre-programmed configurations, as the interface adapts automatically to user positioning.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If indicator positions are allowed to vary freely in the circular interface, then flexible signal distribution is achieved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring positions increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveflexibility of signal distributionVSAvoiddifficulty of determining indicator position and calculating signal distribution

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex manual calculation and measurement mechanisms with automated computational processing. The system electronically detects indicator positions (x, y coordinates) within the circular interface, automatically converts these to angular and radial parameters, and dynamically calculates signal distribution ratios using programmed algorithms, eliminating the need for manual geometric measurement and simplifying the user's interaction.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS7549123B1Mixing input channel signals to generate output channel signals

Publication Date: 2009.06.16 APPLE INC

AI summary

Techniques for mixing multiple input channel signals into multiple output channel signals are provided. A graphical user interface (GUI), which includes multiple indicators, is displayed. The input channel signals are mixed to produce multiple output channel signals. The mixing is performed based on the distance between the indicators' positions in the GUI. According to one embodiment of the invention, the mixing is also performed based on the angle formed between the indicators. Thus, the extent to which an input channel signal is carried by an output channel signal is, in one embodiment of the invention, a function of both the distance between the indicators and an angle formed by the indicators in the GUI.