Intelligent Audio Cable Integrating DSP for Effects Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Musicians face the challenge of carrying multiple audio effects pedals and cables for live performances or recordings, which is cumbersome and costly. Additionally, existing technologies require additional steps and equipment for applying audio effects, such as sampling audio to create effect parameters, which consumes processing power and battery life.
Innovation Solution
The iCable system integrates a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) and wireless capabilities into a specialized audio cable, allowing for the wireless transfer of audio effect algorithms and parameter settings directly to the cable. This simplifies equipment needs by housing all audio effects capabilities within the cable, enabling real-time parameter adjustments, and allowing for the storage and switching of audio effect presets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple audio effects pedals and cables are used, then comprehensive audio effects capabilities are achieved, but equipment complexity and portability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple audio effects pedals and cables into a single integrated cable system. The cable incorporates DSP capabilities, wireless communication, and multiple audio effects processing functions within its structure, eliminating the need for separate pedal units and reducing equipment complexity while maintaining comprehensive audio effects capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The cable is designed as a universal device that performs multiple functions: audio signal transmission, digital signal processing, wireless communication for algorithm updates, and hosting multiple audio effects. This multi-functional design replaces the need for multiple specialized pedals, achieving versatility without increasing device complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple audio effects pedals and cables are used, then comprehensive audio effects capabilities are achieved, but weight and portability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple heavy pedals and cables into a single lightweight cable structure. By integrating DSP chips, wireless modules, and audio processing circuits directly into the cable, the system eliminates the weight of multiple separate pedal units while maintaining all necessary audio effects capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical pedal units with electronic/digital processing capabilities embedded in the cable. Audio effects are generated through digital signal processing and software algorithms rather than mechanical analog circuits, significantly reducing the physical weight required to achieve the same audio capabilities
3Adaptability or versatility
If audio sampling is performed to create effect parameters, then custom audio effects are generated, but processing power consumption and battery drain increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs audio sampling and effect parameter extraction in advance during device initialization or setup phases, rather than continuously during operation. Pre-computed audio parameters are stored in memory for later use, reducing real-time processing requirements and battery consumption during actual audio performance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses pre-extracted audio parameters and pre-processed effect data that are copied from initial sampling operations. Instead of continuously sampling and processing audio to generate effects parameters, the system uses stored parameter copies, significantly reducing processing power requirements and battery drain during operation
4Adaptability or versatility
If additional equipment like tablets and external power sources are used, then audio effect functionality is enhanced, but equipment complexity and portability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of external devices (tablet for algorithm updates, external power source for power supply) into the cable itself. The cable incorporates wireless communication capabilities for receiving algorithm updates directly, and includes integrated power management circuits that eliminate the need for external power adapters, reducing overall equipment complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The cable is designed to be self-sufficient by integrating power management capabilities and wireless communication functions directly into its structure. The device can autonomously receive algorithm updates wirelessly and manage its own power requirements without relying on external tablets or power sources, simplifying the overall system configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A specialized audio/instrument cable with built-in digital signal processing capabilities that adds digital audio sampling capabilities that allows the user to trigger synthesized sounds or virtual musical instruments from within the cable itself to affect the sound generated from an instrument or microphone such that the cable is the only connection needed between the instrument or microphone and an output device. Using voice recognition, the specialized cable can select an audio effects chain algorithm and/or sampled sound algorithm extrapolated from a musical digital audio fingerprint (MDAF) created from a desired musician's instrument to alter the sound of the input instrument's audio.