Automatic Audio Volume Compensation for Signal-Integrity Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing audio systems struggle to effectively monitor and control audio volume levels, often compromising signal integrity through signal compression and failing to adapt dynamically to changing ambient noise levels.
Innovation Solution
An audio system comprising a processor, memory, and an audio level adjustment device that continuously measures and adjusts the output volume of audio sources, using digital signal processing to maintain a set volume level by applying gain or attenuation as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If signal compression is used to adjust volume, then volume control is achieved, but signal integrity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical signal compression with an electrical/electronic gain control system. The audio level adjustment device uses electronic amplification or attenuation circuits to adjust volume levels without degrading the audio signal quality, thereby maintaining signal integrity while achieving effective volume control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary audio level adjustment device between the audio source and the output device. This intermediary component continuously monitors the audio signal level and dynamically adjusts gain or attenuation to maintain the desired output volume, preventing both distortion from over-amplification and loss of detail from under-amplification.
2Adaptability or versatility
If ambient sound sensors are used for volume adjustment, then volume adaptation to environment is achieved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service volume control system where the audio level adjustment device automatically monitors its own output level and adjusts accordingly. The system uses the existing audio signal path and built-in processing capabilities to continuously measure and regulate volume without requiring external sensors or complex additional components.
Solution Approach 2:
The audio level adjustment device performs multiple functions within a single integrated unit: it acts as both a volume control mechanism and an environmental adapter. By processing both the audio signal and environmental noise level information through the same device, the patent achieves environmental adaptation without proportionally increasing system complexity.
3Device complexity
If simple noise floor monitoring is used, then implementation simplicity is maintained, but volume control precision is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a continuous feedback loop where the audio level adjustment device monitors the actual output volume level and compares it to the target level. Based on this feedback, the system dynamically adjusts gain or attenuation in real-time, ensuring precise volume control. This feedback mechanism transforms the simple monitoring approach into a precision control system without requiring complex additional hardware.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method are disclosed herein for automatically adjusting an output level of audio in an audio playback network, the method comprising: selecting an audio source to be received into, and output from, an audio playback network; setting a broadcast output volume level of the selected audio source; receiving new audio from any one of a plurality of audio sources, and broadcasting the new audio from one or more loudspeakers; substantially continuously measuring a volume level of the broadcast new audio; and correcting the broadcast new audio to match the set broadcast output volume level.