Audio Stream Watermark Control for Independent Speaker Playback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current audio devices lack independent control of multiple audio streams, requiring users to operate connected smartphones for individual stream management, leading to user discomfort.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for controlling multiple audio streams in audio devices by encoding watermarks in audio streams and using bit-stream watermark techniques to enable independent control via user inputs on the audio device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If multiple audio streams are mixed and transmitted through a single connection, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates as users cannot independently control each audio stream
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the mixed audio stream into individual audio streams by identifying unique watermarks embedded in each stream. The processor separates the combined audio signal into distinct components, allowing independent control of each audio stream through touch inputs on the audio device itself, eliminating the need for smartphone interaction.
2Device complexity
If audio streams are controlled through the connected smartphone, then the audio device operation is simplified, but the user comfort deteriorates due to the need for frequent smartphone interaction
Solution Approach 1:
The audio device performs self-service by independently controlling multiple audio streams without requiring smartphone interaction. The processor detects watermarks in received audio streams, identifies them as separate streams, and enables direct control through touch inputs on the audio device itself, making the device autonomous in managing its audio playback.
Solution Approach 2:
The watermark acts as an intermediary identifier that enables the audio device to distinguish and control individual audio streams within a mixed transmission. By embedding and detecting these unique identifiers, the system facilitates direct control at the audio device level without needing continuous smartphone mediation.
3Ease of operation
If touch input zones are added to the audio device for direct control, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The audio device integrates multiple functions into a single unit: it receives audio streams, embeds watermarks, processes and separates the streams, and provides touch-based control interface. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate control devices while managing complexity through integrated design.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling at least one of a plurality of audio streams in an audio device is disclosed. The method includes: receiving a first audio stream and a second audio stream from the plurality of audio streams, wherein each of the first audio stream and the second audio stream corresponds to an encoded signal having a watermark, wherein of the first audio stream and the second audio stream is received from a User Equipment (UE); initiating an operation of the first audio stream and the second audio stream on the audio device; and controlling the operation of at least one of the first audio stream and the second audio stream based on receiving an input.