Separating Audio Streams for Multi-User TV Viewing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for transmitting audio signals to multiple receivers often require users to compromise on volume or mute one program's audio when multiple users want to watch different programs simultaneously, as they typically only provide one audio feed corresponding to the main video signal.
Innovation Solution
A device and method that separate and transmit multiple audio signals independently of video signals, allowing for simultaneous transmission of multiple audio streams to different devices, including wireless transmission, enabling users to listen to different programs without muting or reducing volume.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple users watch different programs on separate televisions in the same room, then each user can view their desired program, but the audio volume must be lowered or one user must mute their television
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the audio signal processing by creating separate audio output paths for each program. The system decodes multiple program signals and routes audio from each program through separate channels, allowing independent volume control and preventing audio interference between users watching different programs simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary device (such as a receiver or processing unit) that sits between the multiple program sources and the televisions. This intermediary captures audio from each program separately and transmits it through designated channels, enabling users to hear their respective program audio clearly without interference from other programs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If picture-in-picture functionality is used to view multiple programs on one television, then users can see multiple programs simultaneously, but only one audio feed is available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the audio output by creating separate audio channels corresponding to each video program. Even when programs are displayed using picture-in-picture functionality on a single television, the system provides distinct audio outputs for each program, allowing users to select which audio feed to hear while viewing multiple programs simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the audio signal from each program independently of its video signal. This extraction allows the audio from secondary programs (those displayed in picture-in-picture mode) to be separated and made available as independent audio feeds, so users can hear audio from any program regardless of its display position on the screen.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single electronic device transmits multiple audio signals to multiple receivers, then multiple users can hear their respective programs, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal transmission system where a single electronic device can handle multiple program signals and route them to multiple receivers. The system uses standardized signal processing and transmission protocols that allow one device to serve multiple functions - receiving multiple programs, separating audio feeds, and transmitting to various receivers simultaneously, thereby managing complexity through multi-functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for transmitting audio signals. The method of transmitting audio signals may include separately transmitting a video signal and an audio signal. Further, the method of transmitting audio signals may include transmitting a first video signal and a first audio signal to one component, transmitting a second video signal to the same component and separately transmitting a second audio signal to a second component.