Interpreter Training Audio Routing via Digital Network

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional conference systems require complex additional analog audio cabling for interpreter training, limiting the ability to implement unforeseen functions after installation.

Innovation Solution

A conference system with a teacher unit and trainee units connected to a central unit via a second digital network, allowing centralized distribution of pre-recorded audio signals for training purposes, enabling flexible functionality and recording capabilities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If complex additional analog audio cabling is installed to enable interpreter training functionality, then training capabilities are achieved, but system complexity increases and adaptability is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to implement additional functionsVSAvoidcomplex additional analog audio cabling
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical analog audio cabling system with a digital network-based system. The conference system uses digital networks to transmit audio signals between the central unit, chairman's unit, participant units, and interpreter units, eliminating the need for complex analog audio cables while enabling flexible software-based configuration of training functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The digital network infrastructure serves multiple functions: it transmits audio signals for conference operations, delivers training materials to interpreter units, collects trainee performances, and enables various training modes (simultaneous interpretation, consecutive interpretation, evaluation). This universal digital platform replaces dedicated analog cabling for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If analog audio cabling is laid for training functionality, then current training requirements are met, but future unforeseen functions cannot be implemented

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimplementation of unforeseen functionsVSAvoidinstallation flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The system transitions from a static analog cabling configuration to a dynamic digital network system where functions can be changed through software configuration. The digital network allows real-time reconfiguration of audio routing, training modes, and participant roles without physical re-cabling, enabling the system to adapt to future unforeseen requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the fundamental parameter of signal transmission from analog to digital. This parameter change enables flexible software-based control of audio routing, volume levels, signal processing, and function activation, allowing the system to adapt to changing requirements without physical modifications to the cabling infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If centralized distribution of pre-recorded speech is implemented, then training efficiency increases, but network infrastructure complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraining efficiencyVSAvoidnetwork configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The central unit acts as an intermediary that receives pre-recorded speech files, processes them, and distributes them to the appropriate interpreter units and participant units through the digital network. This centralized mediation simplifies the overall system architecture by consolidating distribution logic in one location rather than requiring complex peer-to-peer connections between multiple units.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3394767B1Conference system for the training of interpreters
Publication Date: 2020.01.29 TELEVIC EDUCATION
  • EP3394767B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3394767B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3394767B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a conference system, suitable for the training of interpreters, which conference system comprises: a central unit, a chairman's unit, a plurality of participant units, and a plurality of interpreter units; a teacher unit associated with the chairman's unit; and trainee units associated with the respective plurality of interpreter units; wherein the chairman's unit, the plurality of participant units and the plurality of interpreter units are connected to the central unit by means of a first digital network.