Multi-Device Channel Synchronization for Spatial Audio Playback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional music reproducing apparatuses, such as MP3 players, limit the reproduction of a stereo effect as they generate sound from almost identical output positions, restricting the spatial audio experience.
Innovation Solution
A multi-channel music reproducing method and apparatus that utilizes a master device and slave devices capable of wired and/or wireless communication, where the master device allocates audio channel information and synchronization information, encodes it, and transmits it with music data to slave devices, allowing each device to decode and output specific audio channels for a richer stereo effect.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If multiple communication devices are used for music reproduction, then spatial audio effect is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the audio reproduction system into multiple independent communication devices, each handling specific audio channels. The master device segments audio data into multiple channels and distributes them to slave devices, enabling spatial audio effects while maintaining individual device simplicity through functional division.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple communication devices into a unified audio reproduction system where devices work together through standardized protocols. By merging devices that can communicate via wired or wireless connections, the system achieves enhanced spatial audio effects while leveraging existing device capabilities.
2Illumination intensity
If audio channel information is allocated to multiple devices, then stereo effect is improved, but communication protocol complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal communication protocol that can operate in both wired and wireless modes, allowing the same protocol structure to handle audio data transmission across different connection types. This multi-functionality reduces protocol complexity while enabling flexible device configuration for optimal stereo effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The master device acts as an intermediary that manages audio channel allocation and synchronization. It encodes channel information and reproduction sync information into index information, simplifying the communication burden on slave devices while maintaining coordinated multi-channel audio output across the device network.
3Reliability
If music data is transmitted to multiple devices, then audio reproduction quality is improved, but data transmission complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The master device performs preliminary encoding of audio data into multiple channels and prepares synchronization information before distribution. By pre-processing audio data and organizing it into channel-specific segments with associated sync information, the system ensures high-quality reproduction at each device while simplifying the transmission process through structured data organization.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-channel music reproducing apparatus and method using a wired and/or wireless communication system are provided. The method includes confirming neighboring devices capable of wired and/or wireless communication; allocating audio channel information to confirmed neighboring devices; encoding the channel information and reproduction synchronization information as index information; transmitting the index information together with a music data file; receiving the encoded index information and music data; decoding the allocated channel information and the synchronization information; and outputting music data corresponding to the allocated channel.