Audio Streaming Apparatus for Scalable Web Device Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing audio transmission methods, such as RF and IR, are poorly scalable, expensive, complex to install, prone to interference, require specialized devices, and need dedicated applications, limiting their effectiveness in broadcasting audio streams to multiple web-enabled devices.
Innovation Solution
A scalable audio-streaming apparatus and method using a microcomputer, ground-loop noise isolators, and a Wi-Fi router to digitize and stream Real-time Transport Protocol (RTP) audio streams to web-enabled devices, eliminating the need for specialized hardware and dedicated applications, and allowing for remote configuration and high concurrency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If RF or IR emitters are used to broadcast audio streams, then audio transmission can be achieved, but the system is poorly scalable with upper limits on the number of connected devices per emitter
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical RF/IR emitter hardware with a digital network-based system. The audio streaming apparatus uses a microcomputer to digitize audio signals and a router to distribute them over Wi-Fi to multiple web-enabled devices simultaneously, eliminating the mechanical/scanning nature of traditional emitters and enabling scalable concurrent connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses universal web-enabled devices (smartphones, tablets, laptops) with web browsers as receivers, replacing the need for specialized RF/IR headsets. The same apparatus can serve multiple different device types simultaneously through the network, providing universal compatibility and scalability.
2Ease of operation
If RF or IR emitters are used for audio transmission, then audio broadcasting is possible, but the equipment is very expensive and requires testing, cleaning and configuration prior to each use
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically manages audio stream distribution without requiring manual configuration for each use. The microcomputer automatically digitizes incoming audio signals, and the router automatically distributes them to connected devices, eliminating the need for pre-use testing, cleaning, and configuration of specialized emitters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses inexpensive, readily available consumer electronics (microcomputer, router, web browsers) instead of expensive specialized RF/IR emitter equipment. These standard components are cost-effective and require minimal maintenance compared to dedicated audio transmission hardware.
3Ease of manufacture
If RF or IR technologies are used for audio transmission, then audio signals can be broadcast, but installation is complex and requires careful planning and prior testing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex physical installation of RF/IR emitters with simple network connectivity. The audio streaming apparatus connects to audio sources and the network via standard interfaces, and web-enabled devices automatically connect through their web browsers, eliminating the need for careful physical planning, alignment, and testing of emitter installations.
4Reliability
If RF or IR emitters are used for audio transmission, then audio broadcasting can occur, but both emitters and transmitters are prone to interference from other signals, structures, ambient light or sunlight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces vulnerable RF/IR wireless transmission with digital audio signal processing and structured Wi-Fi network transmission. The audio is digitized, processed through software encoding, and transmitted via standardized network protocols that are resistant to environmental interference from light, structures, and other signals.
5Adaptability or versatility
If RF or IR technologies are used for audio transmission, then audio can be transmitted to headsets, but specialized headsets or dedicated hearing devices are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses universal web-enabled devices with web browsers as receivers, eliminating the need for specialized RF/IR headsets. Any device with a web browser can receive audio streams, providing universal compatibility across smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other standard devices without requiring dedicated hardware.
6Ease of operation
If prior-art technologies are used for audio transmission, then audio can be transmitted, but a dedicated application must be downloaded and installed on the user's device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the web browser as an intermediary that already exists on user devices. Instead of requiring dedicated audio applications, the system delivers audio streams through standard web protocols that any browser can handle, eliminating the need for users to download, install, or update specialized software.
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus and method for transmitting multiple on-demand audio streams locally to web-enabled user devices. Primarily usable for local audio acquisition and instant redistribution in conference halls with translation booths and stadiums with commentators, the technology is scalable and can be tailored to suit any local acquisition and distribution of both digital and analog audio signals. The technology is reliant on the local network configuration and wireless coverage.