In-Band Audio Event Triggering via Pitch-Shifted DTMF
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current broadcast systems lack a robust and standardized method for signaling events across different automation systems, leading to inefficiencies and human perceptibility issues with traditional audio triggers, and require additional equipment and deep integration for out-of-band signaling methods.
Innovation Solution
Implementing in-band signaling using pitch shifted DTMF and GMSK modulation techniques to encode data within the broadcast audio stream, allowing for faster response times, reduced human perceptibility, and compatibility with all automation systems without additional equipment or configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional audio triggers are used for event signaling, then the method is simple and compatible with all systems, but the triggers are perceptible to humans and cause false triggers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the frequency and amplitude characteristics of audio triggers. Specifically, it uses inaudible frequencies (below human hearing threshold) and varying amplitude levels to encode event signals that machines can detect but humans cannot perceive, thereby eliminating false triggers while maintaining system compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary encoding layer that transforms standard audio triggers into modified signals with specific frequency and amplitude characteristics. This intermediary layer allows the system to maintain compatibility with existing audio infrastructure while adding the capability to generate imperceptible, reliable trigger signals
2Reliability
If out-of-band signaling methods are used for event triggering, then false triggers are reduced, but additional equipment and deep integration are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the advantages of out-of-band signaling (reliability, false trigger reduction) with in-band audio infrastructure by encoding reliable trigger signals within the existing audio stream using imperceptible frequencies. This eliminates the need for separate out-of-band equipment while maintaining the reliability benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the audio trigger system multi-functional by enabling it to serve both traditional audible alert purposes and reliable machine-to-machine triggering purposes simultaneously, through the use of different frequency ranges within the same audio infrastructure
3Loss of time
If in-band signaling with pitch shifted DTMF and GMSK modulation is implemented, then response time is reduced and data rates are increased, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or simple electronic triggering mechanisms with digital signal processing techniques (pitch shifted DTMF and GMSK modulation). This substitution enables faster response times and higher data rates by utilizing digital processing capabilities, while the complexity is managed through software-based implementation rather than hardware complexity
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
The proposed solution ensures reliable, high-quality, and standardized event triggering within broadcast systems, reducing false triggers, latency, and human perception, while supporting higher data rates and scalability.
Implementation Method 1
pitch shifted DTMF
Implementation Method 2
GMSK modulation techniques
Data Source
AI summary
Information associated with a broadcast stream event is encoded within an in-band broadcast. The encoded information in a broadcast stream is detected. The detected information is decoded at least in part to determine content to be injected into the broadcast stream.