Distributed Conference Audio Nodes for Echo-Free Wireless Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
In large conference settings and remote video conferences, ensuring clear audio transmission and reception among multiple participants is challenging, particularly when dealing with a large number of speakers and remote participants.
Innovation Solution
A sound receiving/broadcasting system comprising a master device and multiple slave devices, connected via wireless communication, that processes and transmits audio signals, allowing flexible expansion and managing input and output modes to prevent echo and improve audio clarity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a large conference room is used to accommodate many participants, then the capacity for meetings is improved, but the audio transmission quality deteriorates due to distance and space
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the conference room into multiple zones with distributed audio processing units. Each unit independently processes audio signals for its local area, then transmits processed signals to other units. This segmentation allows clear audio transmission across large spaces by avoiding signal degradation over long distances.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate audio processing devices positioned strategically throughout the conference room. These intermediaries receive audio signals, process them locally, and retransmit to participants, acting as mediators that maintain audio quality across large distances without requiring direct point-to-point transmission.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple slave devices are added to increase coverage, then the system versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple slave devices are merged into a unified networked system where each device performs identical functions. They collectively provide comprehensive coverage while maintaining individual simplicity. The devices work cooperatively as a single integrated system, reducing overall complexity through functional uniformity and coordinated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Each slave device is designed as a universal unit capable of performing multiple functions: receiving audio signals, processing them locally, transmitting to other devices, and serving as both input and output node. This multi-functionality allows versatile system coverage without requiring different specialized devices for different roles.
3Adaptability or versatility
If all slave devices operate in sound-inputting mode simultaneously, then the communication flexibility is improved, but the audio clarity deteriorates due to echo and feedback
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the operational mode of each slave device based on real-time conditions. Devices can switch between sound-inputting mode and sound-outputting mode as needed, allowing flexible communication while preventing echo and feedback by ensuring that not all devices simultaneously function as input devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where each slave device monitors the audio environment and adjusts its operation accordingly. When feedback or echo is detected, the system automatically modifies which devices are in input mode versus output mode, maintaining audio clarity while preserving communication flexibility through adaptive control.
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
Enhances audio clarity and flexibility in large conferences and remote settings by ensuring all participants can hear and speak clearly, with echo prevention and adjustable input modes.
Implementation Method 1
each of the first communication interfaces of the master device is paired with and in wireless communication connection with the second communication interface of a different one of the slave sound receiving/broadcasting devices
Data Source
AI summary
A sound receiving/broadcasting system according to the present invention includes a master device and a plurality of slave sound receiving/broadcasting devices. The master device wirelessly communicates with each slave sound receiving/broadcasting devices. Upon receiving a first audio input signal, the master device transmits a first transmission signal to each of the slave sound receiving/broadcasting devices, and all of the slave sound receiving/broadcasting devices separately output first output sounds according to the received first transmission signals. One of the slave sound receiving/broadcasting devices, upon receiving a second input sound and generating a second audio input signal, transmits a second transmission signal to the master device, and the master device transmits a third transmission signal to each of the slave sound receiving/broadcasting devices according the received second transmission signal, and all of the slave sound receiving/broadcasting devices separately output corresponding second output sounds according to the received third transmission signal.