Automated AV System Setup via Analog Identifier Tones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Complex audio/video systems face difficulties in initial setup and diagnostics due to numerous connections and cables, making it challenging to identify device connections, locations, and functionalities, especially in large-scale systems with wireless connections.
Innovation Solution
The use of analog signals for communicating connection data, combined with wired and wireless digital networking, allows for automated setup and advanced diagnostic information by encoding and decoding unique identifier tones to map devices and their connections within the system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional analog connections and digital network communications are used together in AV systems, then system functionality and control capability are improved, but system setup complexity and diagnostic difficulty increase due to numerous connections and cables
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automated device discovery and connection mapping without requiring manual intervention. Devices automatically send identifier tones through analog connections and the control device automatically maps the connections, eliminating the need for manual cable tracing and device identification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection of connections with automated acoustic signaling. Instead of physically tracing cables and visually identifying connections, the system uses identifier tones transmitted through analog audio connections to automatically map the system topology.
2Measurement precision
If manual entry of connection information and visual inspection are used for system setup, then connection mapping accuracy is maintained, but setup time and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically discovers devices and maps connections without requiring human operators to manually record connection information. The control device autonomously sends identifier tones, receives responses, and constructs the connection map, dramatically reducing setup time while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates an automated digital replica of the physical connection topology by transmitting identifier tones through the analog connections and recording the transmission paths. This digital map accurately replicates the physical cable connections without requiring manual documentation.
3Extent of automation
If identifier tones are transmitted through analog audio connections for device identification, then automated device discovery capability is improved, but audio signal quality may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The system transmits identifier tones as periodic, discrete signals rather than continuous audio. The tones are sent at specific intervals and for limited durations, allowing the audio system to return to normal operation between identification cycles, thereby minimizing impact on audio quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The identifier tones serve as an intermediary signaling mechanism that operates through the existing audio infrastructure without becoming the primary audio signal. The tones are superimposed on or transmitted separately through the audio connections, allowing the audio system to function normally when not performing device identification.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments are disclosed for mapping a networked system. In one example, a control device in a system includes a communication interface coupled to a plurality of devices via a network, a processor, and a storage device storing instructions executable by the processor to transmit a command via the network to the plurality of devices connected to the network, and command the devices to send, via an analog communication interface, an analog message from each device output that is connected to an associated input of another device in the system including information about the output device and output port. The instructions are further executable to determine and map each connected device in the system to an associated device input of another device based on the received analog message for that device output, and, for each mapped device, transmit device data to the device including information about analog connections of the device.