Multi-DAC Audio Output with Tag-Based DAC Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users are limited to a single digital-to-analog converting circuit (DAC) for sound source output, as general sound source output apparatuses typically use a DAC manufactured by the same company, restricting the option to only one sound source created by that DAC.

Innovation Solution

A sound source output apparatus that identifies tag information about a sound source signal and selects among multiple DACs based on tag identification results or user input, allowing for the output of sound sources through a specific DAC, enabling the combination of optimized DAC and filter for ideal sound output.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single DAC manufactured by the same company is used, then the device complexity is reduced and manufacturing is simplified, but the user's choice and sound source output options are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser choice of DACVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the DAC functionality into multiple independent DAC circuits (first DAC, second DAC, etc.) that can be selectively activated. Each DAC can be from different manufacturers or have different characteristics, allowing users to choose among multiple options while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular architecture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The sound source output apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions by supporting different DAC types and manufacturers within a single device. The system can universally handle various sound source signals and route them through different DACs based on user selection or automatic determination, making the device adaptable to diverse audio requirements

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple DACs are provided for user selection, then the adaptability and sound quality options are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveDAC selection optionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic selection capability where the system can automatically determine which DAC to use based on sound source signal characteristics, tag information, or user preferences. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize performance without requiring manual configuration, managing complexity through intelligent automation rather than static multiple pathways

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit acts as an intermediary that manages the complexity of multiple DACs by automatically selecting the appropriate DAC based on sound source characteristics, tag information, or user input. This intermediary layer simplifies the user interface while enabling sophisticated multi-DAC functionality, shielding users from the underlying complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If automatic tag identification is implemented, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic DAC selectionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by automatically analyzing sound source signals, identifying tag information, and autonomously selecting the most appropriate DAC without user intervention. The device serves itself by making intelligent decisions based on the characteristics of the input signal, eliminating the need for manual DAC selection while managing complexity through automated algorithms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11496146B2Apparatus for outputting sound source by applying plurality of DACs and operating method thereof
Publication Date: 2022.11.08 MEEWANG INC
  • US11496146B2 patent drawing
  • US11496146B2 patent drawing
  • US11496146B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed are a sound source output apparatus applying a plurality of DACs and an operating method thereof. The sound source output apparatus according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes a sound source acquiring unit which acquires a sound source signal; a tag identification processing unit which identifies tag information about the sound source signal; a DAC selection control unit which selects a specific DAC among a plurality of digital analog converters (DACs) based on a tag identification result of the tag information or a user input signal; and a sound source output unit which outputs a sound source which is converted by the selected specific DAC.