Audio Signal Conversion Using Shared DAC Routing and Combining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current digital-to-analog conversion systems in cellular phones require multiple digital-to-analog converters (DACs) to handle multi-channel audio signals with different input sample rates, leading to increased power consumption and complexity, especially when processing both voice and music signals simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize a multiplexing module and combining module to reduce the number of DACs by selectively routing digital audio signals through a single or dual DAC configuration, depending on the number and type of input signals, and employing a SPI bus register module to manage signal processing and avoid hardware overflow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple DACs are used to process multi-channel audio signals with different sample rates, then audio signal processing capability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal DAC architecture where a single DAC can process multiple types of audio signals (narrow-band and wide-band, mono and stereo) by dynamically reconfiguring its internal structure. The DAC adapts its filter coefficients and processing paths based on the input signal characteristics, eliminating the need for separate dedicated DACs for different signal types while maintaining full processing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic reconfiguration of the DAC internal structure through programmable filter coefficients and switchable processing paths. The system dynamically adjusts the DAC configuration based on real-time detection of signal characteristics (sample rate, bandwidth, channel count), allowing the same hardware to optimally process different signal types without requiring multiple fixed-configuration DACs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple DACs are used to process multi-channel audio signals with different sample rates, then audio signal processing capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal DAC architecture where a single DAC can process multiple types of audio signals (narrow-band and wide-band, mono and stereo) by dynamically reconfiguring its internal structure. The DAC adapts its filter coefficients and processing paths based on the input signal characteristics, eliminating the need for separate dedicated DACs for different signal types while maintaining full processing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the DAC (filter coefficients, sampling rate, processing mode) based on the detected signal characteristics. By programmatically adjusting these parameters, the system can handle different signal types through a single DAC, reducing hardware complexity while maintaining versatility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple DACs are used to process multi-channel audio signals with different sample rates, then audio signal processing capability is improved, but manufacturing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal DAC architecture where a single DAC can process multiple types of audio signals (narrow-band and wide-band, mono and stereo) by dynamically reconfiguring its internal structure. The DAC adapts its filter coefficients and processing paths based on the input signal characteristics, eliminating the need for separate dedicated DACs for different signal types while maintaining full processing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple specialized DACs into a single integrated DAC unit. By combining narrow-band and wide-band processing, mono and stereo processing capabilities into one reconfigurable device, the system reduces the total component count and simplifies manufacturing assembly.
4Use of energy by moving object
If multiple DACs are used to process multi-channel audio signals with different sample rates, then current consumption is reduced, but signal processing quality may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the DAC (filter coefficients, sampling rate, processing mode) based on the detected signal characteristics. By programmatically adjusting these parameters, the system can handle different signal types through a single DAC, reducing hardware complexity while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates signal detection and analysis mechanisms that provide feedback about the input signal characteristics (sample rate, bandwidth, channel configuration). This feedback enables the DAC to automatically adjust its internal configuration and processing parameters to optimally process the detected signal type, ensuring high processing quality while using a single reconfigurable DAC.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of converting a plurality of input signals on first and second converters, such that the first and second converters are both used when the plurality of signals comprises two signals, characterised in that said method comprises:selecting more than two input signals;determining the type of each selected signal;combining any signals having the same type to form a combined signal;converting one type of signal with the first converter;converting a second type of signal with the second converter wherein the first or second type signals is a combined signal.