Audio Video Signal Routing Using Shared Analog To Digital Converter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Consumer electronic devices struggle with the interconnection of analog and digital audio/video equipment due to hardware resource optimization and complex wiring issues, particularly when trying to connect existing analog devices to newer digital systems lacking backwards compatibility.
Innovation Solution
A device with a digital audio/video output interface and an analog to digital converter, along with a switch and controller, allows for the conversion and processing of analog signals from multiple sources, reducing hardware components and wiring by utilizing existing digital tuner components for analog to digital conversion and power management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If manufacturers minimize hardware resources to reduce production costs, then production costs are reduced, but the device cannot support analog input interfaces for backwards compatibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the tuner's analog-to-digital converter serve dual purposes: it processes signals from the tuner front-end for digital reception and also processes signals from the analog audio/video input interface for backwards compatibility. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a separate ADC, reducing hardware resources while maintaining analog input capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the signal processing path of the tuner with the analog input interface by routing both analog signals to the same analog-to-digital converter. This consolidation of signal paths reduces the number of hardware components needed while preserving both digital and analog input functionality
2Adaptability or versatility
If manufacturers add analog audio/video inputs for backwards compatibility, then backwards compatibility is maintained, but hardware resources and wiring complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The analog audio/video input interface is designed to feed into the existing tuner signal processing chain, allowing the same hardware components (ADC, processor, output interface) to handle both tuner and analog input signals, thereby reducing wiring complexity while maintaining backwards compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a switching mechanism that acts as an intermediary, routing signals from either the tuner front-end or the analog audio/video input interface to the common signal processing path. This mediator manages the signal flow efficiently without requiring separate processing chains
3Adaptability or versatility
If manufacturers add analog audio/video inputs for backwards compatibility, then backwards compatibility is maintained, but hardware resources and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
By making the tuner's signal processing components handle both tuner and analog input signals, the patent avoids duplicating hardware resources. The same ADC, processor, and output interface are reused, minimizing the additional power consumption that would result from adding separate processing chains for analog inputs
Solution Approach 2:
The controller selectively activates signal processing functions based on the active input source, enabling or disabling specific processing paths as needed. This periodic activation of processing functions reduces overall power consumption compared to continuously operating all processing chains
4Adaptability or versatility
If consumers connect analog and digital equipment with different interfaces, then both devices can be used, but the interconnection becomes complex and aesthetically unpleasant
Solution Approach 1:
The device provides a unified digital output interface that can carry signals from either the tuner or analog input interface, eliminating the need for separate digital output connections. This multi-functionality simplifies the consumer's wiring by consolidating connection paths
Solution Approach 2:
The device acts as an intermediary between analog and digital equipment, accepting analog inputs and converting them to digital signals through its integrated ADC and processing chain. This mediator function simplifies the interconnection by providing a single digital output that can connect to digital displays without requiring additional analog-to-digital conversion equipment
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution simplifies the interconnection of analog and digital devices, reduces unnecessary wiring, and minimizes power consumption by reusing existing hardware, enabling seamless integration of analog sources with digital systems while maintaining ergonomic operation and reducing production costs.
Implementation Method 1
an analog to digital convertor, the analog to digital convertor being used for analog to digital conversion of an analog input signal
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention generally relates to a method and device for handling of audio/video signals originating from a mix of analog and digital sources of audio/video signals. In particular, the present invention relates to optimization of hardware resources and of wiring needed for the interconnection of various analog and digital sources of audio/video signals.