Multi-Stream Audio Rendering System for Dynamic Spatial Mix Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing audio systems struggle to efficiently manage the playback of multiple audio streams across a set of smart audio devices or speakers, particularly in scenarios where spatial audio mixes need to be dynamically adjusted based on user commands or environmental factors.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a multi-stream rendering system that allows for the simultaneous playback of multiple audio program streams over a set of arbitrarily placed loudspeakers. This system dynamically modifies the rendering of spatial mixes in response to additional program streams, using techniques such as warping the spatial presentation and adjusting loudness to optimize audio playback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple audio streams are played back simultaneously over multiple speakers, then audio versatility and user experience are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the audio rendering task into separate rendering modules, each responsible for processing specific audio streams. The system segments the audio signal processing into independent channels that can be managed separately, reducing the complexity of handling multiple streams simultaneously. Each rendering module processes specific spatial audio streams independently before combining them at the speaker output stage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary processing stages between the audio sources and the speakers. Rendering modules act as intermediaries that receive audio streams, process them according to spatial requirements, and then deliver processed signals to appropriate speakers. This intermediary layer manages the complexity by providing a structured approach to multi-stream processing.
2Manufacturing precision
If spatial audio mixing is dynamically adjusted based on user commands, then audio fidelity and user experience are improved, but processing time and system response complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary processing of audio streams in dedicated rendering modules before the actual playback occurs. Spatial audio mixes are pre-calculated and prepared in advance based on user commands and environmental factors. This preliminary action reduces the processing time required during actual playback by having the audio streams ready for immediate output.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts audio rendering parameters in real-time based on user commands and environmental conditions. The rendering modules can adapt their processing characteristics dynamically, switching between different spatial audio configurations without requiring complete reprocessing of all audio streams, thus reducing processing time while maintaining fidelity.
3Measurement precision
If audio streams are routed to specific speakers based on spatial requirements, then audio clarity and intelligibility are improved, but system control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the audio routing control into separate rendering modules, each responsible for specific spatial zones and speaker assignments. This segmentation allows independent control of audio streams for different spatial requirements, simplifying the overall control complexity by dividing the control task into manageable units rather than requiring a monolithic control system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies local quality control by routing audio streams to specific speakers based on their spatial characteristics and requirements. Each rendering module optimizes the audio signal for its designated speakers and spatial zone, allowing precise control of audio delivery to specific locations without affecting other parts of the audio system.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-stream rendering system and method may render and play simultaneously a plurality of audio program streams over a plurality of arbitrarily placed loudspeakers. At least one of the program streams may be a spatial mix. The rendering of said spatial mix may be dynamically modified as a function of the simultaneous rendering of one or more additional program streams. The rendering of one or more additional program streams may be dynamically modified as a function of the simultaneous rendering of the spatial mix.