EAS Encoder-Decoder for IBOC Broadcast Notification Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Emergency Alert System (EAS) notification insertion into in-band on-channel (IBOC) broadcasts requires significant hardware duplication due to the need for EAS encoder-decoders to be hardwired to AES/EBU switchers on a per-channel basis, making the process inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A single Emergency Alert System Encoder-Decoder with a processor, memory, and network interface is used to insert notifications into multiple broadcast channels, utilizing an Importer-Exporter system that authenticates and authorizes access to supplemental program service channels, allowing packetized emergency notifications to be incorporated into the broadcast payload, reducing hardware duplication and improving efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If EAS encoder-decoders are hardwired to AES/EBU switchers on a per-channel basis, then emergency notifications can be inserted into each broadcast channel, but significant hardware duplication is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single EAS encoder-decoder system that can serve multiple broadcast channels through software configuration rather than requiring dedicated hardware for each channel. The system uses a common EAS encoder-decoder unit that can be dynamically assigned to different channels via control signals, eliminating the need for per-channel hardware duplication while maintaining reliable emergency notification delivery across all channels
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary control system that mediates between the single EAS encoder-decoder and multiple AES/EBU switchers. This intermediary manages the distribution of emergency notifications to appropriate channels through software-based routing and control signaling, replacing the need for direct hardwired connections from each encoder-decoder to its corresponding switcher
2Adaptability or versatility
If per-channel EAS encoder-decoders are used, then each channel can independently receive emergency notifications, but the system becomes inefficient due to hardware redundancy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple per-channel EAS encoder-decoder functions into a single shared EAS encoder-decoder unit. This consolidated system maintains the ability to independently notify each broadcast channel by using software-based channel assignment and control signaling, thereby preserving per-channel adaptability while dramatically improving system efficiency by eliminating redundant hardware
3Ease of operation
If EAS decoder-encoder sends control signals to switch hardware, then audio source switching can be achieved, but the system requires specially constructed hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/electrical hardwired control system with a software-based control architecture. Instead of using specially constructed hardware switchers that respond to direct control signals, the system uses software modules running on general-purpose computing platforms to manage audio source switching. This substitution maintains ease of operation through programmable control while eliminating the need for specialized hardware constructions
Data Source
AI summary
A switching module transmits channel content to a transport encoder. The switching module receives notification content associated with an emergency action system (EAS) message, and transmits the notification content to the transport encoder in place of the channel content.