Audio Network Topology Detection via Autonomous Port Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional audio network systems face challenges in dynamic routing due to complex control processes, stability issues with word clocks, and inefficient packet transmission, leading to potential silent periods during errors and complex topology detection methods.
Innovation Solution
An audio network system with a main node and satellite nodes that automatically change routes and generate clock signals with minimal lag, using a packet structure with embedded clock signals and error check codes to ensure stable transmission and simple topology detection protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic routing is implemented in conventional audio network systems, then route flexibility and failure avoidance are improved, but control process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each node autonomously determines routes by independently comparing packet arrival times from different ports without requiring complex centralized control or coordination with other nodes. The node simply selects the port that receives packets first, enabling self-service routing decisions that reduce overall system complexity while maintaining adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using complex routing tables and path determination algorithms that conventional systems employ, the invention inverts the approach by using the simplest possible method: selecting the port with the earliest packet arrival time. This inverted simplicity achieves dynamic routing adaptability without the complexity of traditional routing protocols
2Device complexity
If word clock is used for synchronization in audio network systems, then clock distribution is simplified, but stability deteriorates due to packet transmission variations
Solution Approach 1:
The packet structure is segmented to include multiple clock signals at different hierarchical levels: a first clock signal for basic sampling synchronization and a second clock signal derived from packet arrival timing for finer synchronization. This segmentation of clock functions allows stable synchronization while maintaining simple distribution through the audio data packets themselves
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback by continuously monitoring packet arrival times at each node and using this timing information to generate and adjust clock signals. The clock signals are dynamically adjusted based on actual transmission timing, creating a feedback loop that compensates for transmission variations and maintains stability without complex external clock distribution
3Reliability
If error check codes are added to packets, then transmission reliability is improved, but packet size and processing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The error check mechanism uses parameter changes by implementing a simple parity check or checksum that can be calculated and verified with minimal processing. The error check code is integrated into the existing packet structure as a straightforward numerical parameter that can be computed using basic arithmetic operations, avoiding complex error correction algorithms while maintaining reliability
Data Source
AI summary
In an audio network system constructed from a main node and a plurality of satellite nodes each having a plurality of ports, the main node generates and transmits a main packet including audio signals of a plurality of channels. Each satellite node selects one of the plurality of ports in turn, and confirms whether the main packet arrives at the selected port every predetermined period or not. When the main packet arrives at the selected port every predetermined period, the main packet is received via the port by continuing selection of the port. In the case where reception of the main packet is lost, one is selected from the plurality of ports in turn, the operation to confirm arrival of the main packet is restarted, and another port at which the main packet arrives at the present stage is automatically found.