Latency Configuration for Synchronized Media Playback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing digital media networking technologies face challenges with latency synchronization, particularly in heterogeneous systems with multiple transmitters and receivers, where fixed packet sizes, limited topologies, and ignored latency variations lead to unsynchronized clocks and audio artefacts.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system that uses a shared concept of time across devices, with mechanisms to determine and negotiate minimum and maximum latency values, allowing receivers to adaptively set playback times and maintain sample-accurate timing, thereby synchronizing media channels across diverse equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If fixed packet sizes and limited topologies are used in digital media networking, then device complexity is reduced, but latency synchronization precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts packet sizes and latency parameters based on network conditions and device capabilities. Rather than using fixed packet sizes, the system allows variable packet sizes to optimize both network efficiency and timing precision, enabling heterogeneous devices to synchronize accurately without manual configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements automatic negotiation of latency parameters between devices. Devices exchange capability information and dynamically determine optimal latency values, packet sizes, and timing parameters based on their specific characteristics and network conditions, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and precision.
2Ease of operation
If latency variations are ignored in heterogeneous systems, then system simplicity is maintained, but playback synchronization accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-configuration where devices automatically measure their own latency characteristics and negotiate timing parameters with other devices. Each device reports its capabilities and measured latencies, and the system automatically computes synchronization parameters without user intervention, maintaining simplicity while achieving precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where devices continuously monitor latency variations and adjust their playback timing accordingly. This closed-loop control allows the system to compensate for latency differences in heterogeneous devices automatically, achieving synchronized playback without manual configuration.
3Extent of automation
If manual latency compensation is used in centralized systems, then automation level is low, but timing control precision is adequate for small systems
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary measurement and negotiation of latency parameters during device initialization and connection establishment. Devices exchange capability information and pre-compute timing parameters before actual media playback begins, enabling automatic operation without requiring manual configuration during operation.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is related to transmitting and receiving media channels, such as audio and video channels. These channels may be transmitted as packets from one or more transmitting devices to one or more receiving devices for playout. Certain embodiments of the present disclosure include systems, methods, and computer-readable media for determining latency of a data network for synchronised playout of received signals. Additionally, certain embodiments of the present disclosure include systems, methods, and computer-readable media for synchronising playout among devices connected to a data network.