Multi-Device Channel Allocation for Synchronized Surround Audio
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional music reproducing apparatuses, such as MP3 players, limit the reproduction of a stereo effect as the sound is generated from almost identical output positions, restricting the spatial audio experience.
Innovation Solution
A multi-channel music reproducing method and apparatus that utilizes a master device and slave devices capable of wired and/or wireless communication to allocate audio channel information, encode and transmit index information with music data, ensuring synchronized reproduction across multiple devices, effectively creating a 5.1-channel audio experience without the need for external speakers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If multiple communication devices are used for music reproduction, then the stereo effect and spatial audio experience are improved, but the device complexity and synchronization requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the audio reproduction system into multiple independent communication devices, each handling specific audio channels. The master device segments the audio data into multiple channels and distributes them to slave devices, allowing each device to independently process and output its assigned channels, thereby achieving multi-channel stereo effect without requiring a single complex system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism in the form of synchronized music file transmission and playback coordination between master and slave devices. The master device acts as an intermediary that distributes audio data and maintains synchronization across all devices, enabling complex multi-device coordination through a centralized control approach
2Adaptability or versatility
If audio channels are allocated to multiple devices, then the spatial audio experience is enhanced, but the communication and synchronization requirements between devices increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-allocating audio channels to specific devices before playback begins. The master device assigns audio channels to slave devices in advance and establishes the communication framework beforehand, ensuring that when music playback starts, all devices are already configured and synchronized, eliminating runtime coordination issues
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where slave devices transmit playback status and reception confirmation back to the master device. This feedback loop allows the master device to monitor synchronization status and adjust data transmission accordingly, ensuring reliable synchronized playback across all devices
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-channel music reproducing apparatus and method using a wired and/or wireless communication system are provided. The method includes confirming neighboring devices capable of wired and/or wireless communication; allocating audio channel information to confirmed neighboring devices; encoding the channel information and reproduction synchronization information as index information; transmitting the index information together with a music data file; receiving the encoded index information and music data; decoding the allocated channel information and the synchronization information; and outputting music data corresponding to the allocated channel.