Surround Signal Decoding With Decorrelated Downmix Rendering

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods and apparatuses are unable to generate a surround signal with multi-channel features in environments capable only of producing mono or stereo signals, limiting media signal processing efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that utilize spatial information to convert a media signal into a surround signal by generating source mapping information, applying filter information for a surround effect, and integrating rendering information with a downmix signal to produce the surround signal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional methods are used to generate multi-channel signals, then multi-channel features are achieved, but the method is unusable in environments capable only of producing mono or stereo signals

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different channel configurationsVSAvoidcomplexity of multi-channel signal processing
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions: it can process both multi-channel signals and downmix signals (mono/stereo). The rendering unit adapts its operation based on the input signal type, applying spatial information differently for each case to generate appropriate output signals, making the system universally applicable across different channel configurations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts its processing mode based on the input signal characteristics. When a downmix signal is detected, the apparatus switches to a specialized rendering mode that uses spatial information to synthesize surround effects, rather than following the conventional multi-channel processing path

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If spatial information is used to generate surround effects in mono/stereo environments, then surround signal capability is achieved, but additional processing steps are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveefficiency of media signal processingVSAvoidnumber of processing steps
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Spatial information is extracted and prepared in advance during the encoding stage. This pre-processed spatial information is then directly applied during decoding to generate surround effects, eliminating the need for complex real-time spatial analysis and reducing the computational burden during playback

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

Spatial information acts as an intermediary that bridges the gap between downmix signals and surround output. This intermediate data structure enables the rendering unit to synthesize multi-channel effects from mono/stereo inputs without requiring direct access to the original multi-channel signal

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP1974346B1Method and apparatus for processing a media signal
Publication Date: 2013.10.02 LG ELECTRONICS INC
  • EP1974346B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP1974346B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP1974346B1 patent drawingFigure 5~7

AI summary

An apparatus for processing a media signal and method thereof are disclosed, by which the media signal can be converted to a surround signal by using spatial information of the media signal. The present invention provides a method of processing a signal, the method comprising of extracting a downmix signal from a bitstream; generating a decorrelated downmix signal by applying a decorrelator to the downmix signal; and generating a surround signal by applying rendering information for generating a surround signal to the downmix signal and the decorrelated downmix signal.