Audio and Timecode Splitter With Camera Return Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing audio splitters require multiple separate boxes and cables to distribute stereo audio and timecode signals to multiple cameras, leading to complex and cumbersome wiring setups, especially when monitoring audio from cameras back to a mixer.
Innovation Solution
A single audio splitter box that combines stereo and timecode signals and provides multiple outputs to cameras, using a single cable for each output, with a return feed for monitoring audio from cameras to the mixer, reducing the number of cables and simplifying setup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate splitters are used to distribute stereo audio and timecode signals to multiple cameras, then each signal can be distributed independently, but the number of cables and device complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate splitter functions into a single integrated device. The audio splitter includes multiple input channels (stereo audio inputs and timecode input) and multiple output channels that can be selectively connected, eliminating the need for separate splitter boxes for audio and timecode signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The audio splitter is designed as a universal device that can handle multiple signal types (stereo audio and timecode) and provide selective distribution to multiple cameras. The device includes multiple input and output channels that can be configured for different camera positions, making it a multi-functional solution.
2Ease of manufacture
If separate splitters are used for each signal type, then signal distribution is straightforward, but the number of cables and setup time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate splitter functions into a single integrated device. The audio splitter includes multiple input channels (stereo audio inputs and timecode input) and multiple output channels that can be selectively connected, eliminating the need for separate splitter boxes for audio and timecode signals.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate splitters are used, then each signal can be distributed independently, but the number of cables needed increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a selector switch that allows dynamic reconfiguration of output channels. The operator can selectively connect any output channel to any input channel, providing flexible signal distribution without requiring dedicated cables for each possible connection. This dynamic switching capability reduces the total cable quantity needed.
4Ease of operation
If separate splitters are used for audio and timecode, then signal routing is simple, but the overall system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate splitter functions into a single integrated device. The audio splitter includes multiple input channels (stereo audio inputs and timecode input) and multiple output channels that can be selectively connected, eliminating the need for separate splitter boxes for audio and timecode signals.
Data Source
AI summary
An audio splitter is often used with a mixer or other source to take left and right stereo inputs into spaced apart input jacks of a housing and output at least four separate outputs at spaced apart output jacks on the housing for communicating those inputs to the outputs, often for use by cameras. More sophisticated versions include the ability to receive a timecode as an input at a separate jack and then output the timecode as an output at each of the output jacks. Still further sophisticated versions receive a return signal at each of the output jacks which can be monitored or utilized for further processing.