Weighted Multi-Channel Audio Compression for Transfer Function Mismatch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing audio signal processing techniques fail to effectively control the dynamic range of multi-channel audio signals, particularly when the audio channels have different transfer functions, leading to undesired audio artefacts and compromised audio quality.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for dynamic range processing that assigns different weights to electrical signals based on their instantaneous amplitudes and the differences in transfer functions between audio channels, calculating an instantaneous gain to be applied uniformly, which compensates for differences in resonance frequencies and non-linear response ranges, thereby improving perceived audio quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional audio signal processing techniques are used, then the processing is simple, but the dynamic range control is ineffective and audio artefacts occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the multi-channel audio signal into individual channel components and processes each channel separately with channel-specific weights and gain calculations, rather than treating the audio signal as a single unified stream. This segmentation enables effective dynamic range control for each channel while maintaining overall system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent calculates instantaneous gain values in advance based on the weighted sum of instantaneous amplitudes before applying the gain to the audio signals. This preliminary calculation of gain values ensures that dynamic range control is effectively applied to prevent audio artefacts before they occur during signal transmission.
2Manufacturing precision
If different weights are assigned to compensate for transfer function differences, then audio quality improves, but the processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different weights to different audio channels based on their specific transfer function characteristics, resonance frequencies, and non-linear response ranges. This local quality approach compensates for channel-specific variations and improves audio quality by tailoring the processing to each channel's unique properties rather than using uniform processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the weight parameters assigned to each channel based on measured transfer function differences, resonance frequencies, and non-linear response characteristics. By adjusting these parameters dynamically, the system compensates for hardware variations and improves audio quality without requiring complex physical modifications to the audio equipment.
3Productivity
If instantaneous gain is calculated based on weighted amplitudes, then dynamic range compression is effective, but the calculation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a universal instantaneous gain calculation method that processes multiple audio channels simultaneously by calculating the weighted sum of their instantaneous amplitudes. This multi-functional approach enables effective dynamic range compression across all channels using a single gain calculation framework, improving productivity without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical or hardware-based dynamic range control mechanisms with electronic calculation of instantaneous gain values based on amplitude measurements and weight assignments. This substitution simplifies the physical system while achieving effective dynamic range compression through computational methods.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for audio processing includes receiving multiple electrical signals to be transmitted in parallel via multiple respective audio channels. Multiple respective weights are assigned to the multiple electrical signals, wherein at least two of the weights differ from one another. An instantaneous gain is calculated, to be applied to the multiple electrical signals. The instantaneous gain depends on (i) instantaneous amplitudes of the multiple electrical signals, and (ii) the weights assigned to the multiple electrical signals. The instantaneous gain is applied to the multiple electrical signals, and the multiple electrical signals are transmitted via the multiple respective audio channels.