Time Modification System for Hybrid Radio Signal Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
In audio signal transmissions, the lack of time-alignment between digital and analog broadcasts leads to audible artifacts and increased start-up times when switching between signals, particularly in scenarios where one signal is delayed relative to another, such as in hybrid radio systems where FM and DAB broadcasts coexist.
Innovation Solution
A time modification system comprising a delay module and a duration modification module, allowing for adjustable delay and duration changes to synchronize audio signals, enabling seamless switching between leading and lagging signals by using a switch to select between delayed or time-modified outputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the leading audio signal is played without adding a delay line to minimize start-up time, then start-up time is reduced, but switching to a lagging audio signal causes audible artifacts
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the delay applied to the leading audio signal based on real-time conditions. The delay parameter is not fixed but can be modified during operation to maintain time-alignment when switching between signals, thereby preventing audible artifacts while managing start-up time
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the delay parameter of the leading signal to achieve time-alignment with the lagging signal. By adjusting this parameter, the system ensures that when switching occurs, both signals are synchronized, eliminating audible artifacts while controlling start-up time
2Object-generated harmful factors
If a delay line is added to the leading audio signal to achieve time-alignment with a lagging signal, then audible artifacts are reduced, but start-up time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The delay line is not static but dynamically adjustable. The system can reduce or remove the delay when fast start-up is needed, and apply delay when time-alignment is required for switching, thus balancing both requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares the delay adjustment in advance based on predicted switching needs. By pre-adjusting the delay parameter before a switch is needed, the system can minimize start-up time while ensuring time-alignment is ready when switching occurs
3Stability of the object's composition
If the delay buffer length is increased to maintain time-alignment when the lagging signal delay changes, then time-alignment is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback from the changing delay conditions to automatically adjust the delay buffer length. When the lagging signal's delay changes, the system detects this and modifies the leading signal's delay accordingly, maintaining time-alignment through continuous feedback adjustment
Solution Approach 2:
The delay buffer system is self-adjusting based on the operational conditions. The system automatically manages the buffer length without external intervention, adapting to changing signal delays and maintaining synchronization autonomously
Data Source
AI summary
A time modification system is disclosed. The time modification module includes a delay module for receiving an input signal comprising a series of digital samples at an input sample rate. The delay module provides a delayed output signal. The time modification module further includes a duration modification module for receiving the input signal or a delayed version thereof, and providing a modified output signal. A first switch is included for selecting either the delayed output signal or the modified output signal.