Dialog Loudness Normalization for Consistent Program Audio
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current audio processing systems lack a standardized method for maintaining consistent loudness levels across different programs and advertisements, leading to unexpected volume changes when switching between channels or programs, due to mismatched dynamic ranges and improper setting of the Dialog Normalization (DIALNORM) parameter.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for correcting audio levels by retrieving stored program assets, identifying dialog, determining the loudness using psycho-acoustic criteria, and re-encoding the audio if the initial loudness setting differs significantly from the determined loudness, ensuring consistent loudness settings across programs and advertisements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different programs and advertisements are encoded with their original loudness settings, then each program maintains its intended audio characteristics, but viewers experience unexpected volume changes when switching between programs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the loudness encoding parameter (DIALNORM) of audio content. The system analyzes the original loudness characteristics of programs and advertisements, then re-encodes them with standardized loudness parameters to ensure consistent playback volume across different content sources, eliminating the need for manual viewer adjustments.
2Ease of operation
If audio is re-encoded to standardize loudness levels, then consistent volume is achieved across programs, but processing time and computational resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-analyzing and pre-standardizing the loudness parameters of audio content during off-peak hours or in the background. The system measures the original loudness characteristics, determines appropriate normalization parameters, and prepares standardized audio versions in advance, so that when viewers request content, the loudness normalization is already complete and no real-time processing is required.
3Ease of operation
If DIALNORM parameter is properly set during encoding, then loudness consistency is maintained, but additional encoding steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by implementing an automated system that measures the original loudness characteristics of audio content, automatically determines the appropriate DIALNORM parameter values, and performs re-encoding without manual intervention. The system includes built-in loudness measurement capabilities and automatic parameter adjustment algorithms that adapt to different content types (programs, advertisements, sports events), eliminating the need for manual encoding configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
An example of a method of correcting an audio level of a stored program asset comprises retrieving a stored program asset having audio encoded at a first loudness setting. Dialog of the audio of the asset is identified, a loudness of the dialog is determined and the determined loudness is compared to the first loudness setting. The asset is re-encoded at a second loudness setting corresponding to the determined loudness, if the first loudness setting and the second loudness are different by more than a predetermined amount. The determined loudness is preferably a DIALNORM of the dialog. The asset may be stored with the re-encoded loudness setting. The method may be applied to programs as they are being received from a source, as well. Aspects of the method may also be applied to programs to be provided by a source. Systems are also disclosed.