Audio Receiver Gain Calibration for Cross-Format Loudness Consistency
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Solution Overview
Problem
The proliferation of different audio formats and equipment configurations leads to inconsistencies in loudness levels of audio signals, causing users to frequently adjust volume settings when switching channels or inputs, as the processing differences across various audio pathways result in varying perceived loudness levels.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and device that equalizes loudness levels by outputting audio signals in different formats, detecting and analyzing their loudness, and adjusting them based on user input to ensure they are perceived as equal, with the adjustments saved for future playback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If different audio formats are used for digital broadcasting, then data transmission efficiency is improved, but loudness consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the loudness levels of different audio formats through gain adjustment. The system detects the audio format being played and dynamically adjusts the gain parameter to compensate for format-specific loudness differences, thereby maintaining consistent perceived loudness across various digital audio formats while preserving transmission efficiency benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the audio format being decoded and the associated loudness characteristics, then automatically adjusting the gain accordingly. This closed-loop approach ensures that loudness consistency is maintained without requiring manual intervention, resolving the contradiction between format diversity and loudness uniformity
2Manufacturing precision
If audio gain adjustment is implemented, then loudness consistency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by implementing an automated system that autonomously detects audio formats, determines appropriate gain adjustments, and applies corrections without user intervention. The device serves itself by maintaining loudness consistency through automatic gain control based on format detection, thereby improving loudness consistency while minimizing the perceived complexity for the user
3Measurement precision
If user feedback mechanism is added for loudness calibration, then loudness equalization accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing an optional automated calibration mode that performs loudness equalization adjustments before normal operation begins. Users can choose to run the calibration process once during setup, after which the system automatically applies the determined gain adjustments without requiring repeated user feedback, thereby improving accuracy while maintaining ease of operation during actual use
Data Source
AI summary
The application discusses a computer implemented method and apparatus for performing audio equalisation in an audio receiver device, such as an integrated receiver/decoder or set top box, or integrated TV, connected to one or more audio playback devices, such as a television unit, computer screen and speakers, amplifier or home theatre equipment. The method and apparatus use an equalisation process which compares audio signals received in different audio formats (e.g. MPEG-1 Layer II, AC-3 2.0, AC-3 5.1 and HE-AAC) with one another, allowing a correction gain factor to be determined for equalising the perceived loudness of the signals when played-back at a connected playback device. The correction gain factor is then applied in the audio receiver device before output.