Multiplexer for Mixed Encoding Audio Transport Streams

The multiplexer divides the audio stream processing into separate encoding paths (first encoding method and second encoding method) that are processed independently before being combined. Each encoding path has its own packetizer that handles specific encoding formats, allowing different encoding methods to be multiplexed without interfering with each other while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design

The patent applies different packetization strategies locally to different encoding methods. TS packets containing audio data encoded with the first encoding method are packetized differently from those encoded with the second encoding method, with specific adaptation fields and timing information added according to the encoding type, enabling optimized handling of each encoding format while maintaining overall system adaptability

The patent introduces an adaptation field as an intermediary element between the packetizer and the transport stream. This adaptation field contains encoding method identification information and timing data that mediates between different encoding formats, allowing the multiplexer to efficiently combine streams while providing sufficient information for the decoder to correctly identify and process each encoding type, thus maintaining both productivity and reliability

The patent changes key parameters in the TS packet structure to accommodate different encoding methods. By modifying packetization parameters such as adaptation field presence, timing information format, and encoding method identifiers based on the specific encoding type, the system maintains high processing efficiency while ensuring that all necessary decoding information is preserved, thereby safeguarding decoding accuracy