Vinyl-Type Record Region Selection for Seamless Audio Playback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing digital audio processing systems are complex and interruptive for DJs, requiring frequent switching between devices to manage different versions of a song along a time axis, which disrupts the seamless playback experience.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a digital audio unit and a user control device that allows seamless selection and playback of different versions of a song by partitioning a vinyl-type record into concentric regions, each associated with a specific time interval, and using a region identification signal to control the digital audio unit.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a DJ uses conventional digital audio processing systems to manage different versions of a song, then the system can provide multiple audio tracks and effects, but the user workflow is interrupted frequently requiring switching between devices

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to play different versions of a songVSAvoiduser workflow continuity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple audio tracks representing different versions of a song into a single vinyl-type record. The control device integrates playback control and version selection functions, allowing the DJ to manage all audio tracks from one unified interface rather than switching between multiple devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The vinyl-type record serves multiple functions simultaneously: it stores multiple audio tracks, provides visual region indicators for different song versions, and enables direct playback control. The single control device handles both playback control and version selection, making it a multi-functional tool that eliminates the need for separate devices.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If a DJ uses conventional systems with multiple control devices, then different audio functions can be controlled, but the complexity of the system increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaudio control capabilitiesVSAvoidnumber of control devices
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple control functions into a single control device that can select between different audio tracks and control playback. Instead of requiring separate devices for playback control and version selection, the system integrates these functions into one unified interface that the DJ operates from a single location.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If a DJ uses traditional vinyl records, then intuitive hands-on operation is possible, but the availability of desired music is limited and sound quality degrades with prolonged use

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehands-on operation intuitivenessVSAvoidmusic availability and sound quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The vinyl-type record is segmented into multiple concentric regions, each containing an audio track representing a different version of a song. This segmentation allows multiple versions to be stored on a single record while maintaining the physical, hands-on operation characteristics of traditional vinyl. The pickup device can be positioned at different regions to select different versions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses digital audio data stored on the vinyl-type record, which can be copied and reproduced without degradation. Unlike traditional vinyl that degrades with playback, the digital copies maintain consistent sound quality while preserving the tactile operation of moving the pickup device across different regions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS12236926B2System for selection and playback of song versions from vinyl type control interfaces
Publication Date: 2025.02.25 ALGORIDDIM GMBH
  • US12236926B2 patent drawing
  • US12236926B2 patent drawing
  • US12236926B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for processing digital audio signals. The system includes a digital audio unit configured to provide digital audio data of a first audio track and a second audio track. The first audio track and a second audio track represent different versions of the same piece of music. The system also includes a user control device operable by a user to allow the user to select either a first region or a second region. The digital audio unit is configured to play back audio signals obtained from the first audio track when the first region is selected, and to play back audio signals obtained from the second audio track when the second region is selected.