Take Folder Data Structure for Seamless Music Compilation

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Solution Overview

Problem

In music production, manually compiling multiple cycle recordings into a cohesive final music section is time-consuming and prone to errors such as overlaps and gaps, which can result in undesired sound effects.

Innovation Solution

A method utilizing a 'take folder' data structure in a computer system to store and manage multiple takes of a music section, allowing for automatic selection and compilation of desired sections without manual manipulation, ensuring seamless transitions and preventing overlaps or gaps.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If multiple cycle recordings are manually compiled into a final music section, then the music production can be completed with basic equipment, but the process becomes time-consuming and error-prone

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemusic production accessibilityVSAvoidcompilation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple separate tracks containing cycle recordings into a single consolidated track. The system automatically combines the recorded takes, eliminating the need for manual compilation while maintaining all the recorded material in an organized manner within one track.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary organization and arrangement of multiple takes during the recording process itself. By pre-structuring the takes in a single track with proper timing and sequencing, the compilation step is eliminated or greatly simplified, as the material is already prepared for final use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple cycle recordings are manually compiled, then flexibility in selecting takes is maintained, but overlaps and gaps occur causing undesired sound effects

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetake selection flexibilityVSAvoidcompilation accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides visual feedback through waveform displays for each take, allowing users to see the exact timing and content of each recording. This enables precise selection and adjustment of takes while the system automatically monitors and prevents overlaps and gaps, combining user flexibility with automated accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of cutting and pasting audio material with an automated digital system. The computer automatically handles the compilation process, eliminating human errors in manual manipulation while maintaining full control over take selection through the interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If manual compilation is used, then user control over each section is maintained, but the process requires significant manual manipulation and time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser controlVSAvoidcompilation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides multiple functions within a single track structure: it can store multiple takes, display waveforms for all takes, allow selective compilation, and automatically ensure proper timing. This multi-functionality maintains user control while eliminating the need for separate manual compilation operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-service by automatically handling the compilation process. Once takes are recorded and selected, the system automatically compiles them into the final music section without requiring manual cutting, copying, and pasting operations, thus maintaining user control while eliminating time-consuming manual steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8163990B2Methods, programs, storage media and systems for recording and compiling a music section
Publication Date: 2012.04.24 APPLE INC
  • US8163990B2 patent drawing
  • US8163990B2 patent drawing
  • US8163990B2 patent drawing

AI summary

This disclosure relates to a method for recording and compiling a music section, wherein multiple takes of the music section are recorded; and wherein the method uses a take folder to store the multiple takes. The take folder may belong to a single track. Sections of one or more takes can be selected to be part of a resulting compilation which is composed of the selected sections. In one embodiment, a method automatically ensures that selected sections do not overlap in time and that there are no breaks between adjacent selections. In addition, the present invention relates to programs, a storage media and data processing systems having the above features as well as to a storage medium containing the music produced thereby.