Multi-Device Audio Interference Reduction via Majority Voting
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multi-device environments, the potential for audio interference arises when multiple users are playing and recording content simultaneously, leading to inconveniences such as unwanted background noise in recordings and the need to mute devices playing content.
Innovation Solution
A computer-based process that determines whether a device is playing and recording content, and controls other devices accordingly to reduce audio interference. This involves muting microphones or interrupting content playback based on the actions of a majority of nearby devices, ensuring that audio interference is minimized while allowing content playback to continue when most users are not recording.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If devices playing audible content are muted to reduce audio interference with recording devices, then audio interference is reduced, but users nearby who wish to hear the audible content are inconvenienced
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different audio output settings to different devices based on their local context. Recording devices receive muted audio output to prevent interference, while non-recording devices continue to play audio normally. This localized differentiation resolves the contradiction by allowing audio playback for users who need it while preventing interference for recording devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts audio playback settings based on real-time device states and user actions. When a user initiates a recording, the system detects this state change and automatically mutes audio output to that specific device. When recording stops, audio playback is restored. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize both interference reduction and user convenience based on current conditions.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If content playback is interrupted when a device is recording video, then audio interference in video recordings is reduced, but content playback continuity is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the audio output stream and directs it differently to different devices. Instead of interrupting playback for all devices, the system creates separate audio channels: one for recording devices (muted) and one for non-recording devices (unmuted). This segmentation allows content playback to continue uninterrupted for most users while preventing background noise in recordings.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces a central controller that acts as an intermediary between the content source and multiple output devices. This mediator receives the content stream and intelligently distributes it, applying mute settings selectively to recording devices while allowing uninterrupted playback to non-recording devices. The intermediary resolves the contradiction by coordinating audio distribution across the multi-device environment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple devices are allowed to play and record content simultaneously in the same area, then user flexibility is increased, but the potential for interference between devices increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the audio output parameter (mute/unmute state) based on the device's current function. When a device transitions to recording mode, its audio output parameter is changed to muted. When in playback-only mode, the parameter remains unmuted. This parameter adjustment allows simultaneous multi-device operation with flexible functionality while preventing interference through selective muting.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for reducing interference between content play and video recording among multiple devices located proximate to each other. Microphones of devices recording video are muted, or content play is interrupted, according to the actions of a majority of nearby devices. For example, if most devices are recording video, content play may be interrupted to prevent the video from unintentionally recording unwanted sounds from play of the content. Conversely, if most devices are not recording video, only those devices which may have their microphones muted. Actions to reduce interference may be taken according to the current behavior of a majority of proximate devices.