HDMI Loopback Device ARC Audio Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional audio/video setups require multiple remote controls and frequent device upgrades to accommodate evolving audio-visual media standards, leading to a cumbersome user experience.
Innovation Solution
An improved audio/video receiver, referred to as a loopback device, connects between a source device and a display device, allowing the display device to select the audio/video stream and send the audio signal to the loopback device via ARC or eARC, which then outputs the signal to speakers without the need for device upgrades.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple devices (AVR, source devices, display device) are connected in a traditional setup, then audio/video functionality is achieved, but the quantity of remote controls increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple devices (source device, display device, and audio processing functions) into a single integrated display device. The display device directly receives audio/video signals, processes audio internally, and outputs to speakers, eliminating the need for separate AVR and multiple remote controls while maintaining full audio/video functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The display device is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as both the video display and the audio processing unit. By integrating audio reception, processing, and output capabilities directly into the display device, it becomes a universal device that replaces multiple specialized devices and their associated control interfaces.
2Adaptability or versatility
If devices are upgraded to accommodate newer HDMI standards (e.g., HDMI 2.0 for 4K), then audio/video quality is improved, but the frequency of device upgrades increases and loss of time occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The display device is pre-configured with internal audio processing capabilities and multiple HDMI inputs, allowing it to accommodate future HDMI standards and source devices without requiring additional external processing equipment. This preliminary integration reduces the need for future upgrades.
Solution Approach 2:
The display device serves as an intermediary between multiple HDMI source devices and the audio output system. By positioning the display device as the central hub that receives, processes, and distributes audio/video signals, it mediates compatibility between different HDMI versions and standards, reducing the need to upgrade all connected devices simultaneously.
3Device complexity
If source devices are connected directly to the display device, then device complexity is reduced, but support for modern sound formats is lost when using TOSLINK connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the optical TOSLINK connection with HDMI digital connections. By using HDMI interfaces instead of optical outputs, the system maintains direct connection simplicity while preserving full support for modern audio formats including Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD, and other high-resolution audio codecs that HDMI natively supports.
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus, method and system for connecting High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) devices. A loopback device connects between a first source device and a sink device on a first connection; a second source device connects to the sink device on a second connection. The loopback device manages the first connection, passes transition-minimized differential signaling (TMDS) or fixed-rate link (FRL) signals through to the sink device, and outputs audio received from the sink device on the audio return channel (ARC) or enhanced audio return channel (eARC). In this manner, audio that originates from any source device may be output without requiring a direct connection to the loopback device.