Wireless Audio Synchronization Through Separate Audio and Clock Masters
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing whole home audio systems rely on a single device to serve as both the audio master and the clock master, which can lead to resynchronization needs and potential interruptions during clock master recovery.
Innovation Solution
The system separates the roles of the audio master and the clock master, where the audio master distributes audio content and the clock master provides clock information for synchronization, allowing for independent selection and operation of these roles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single device serves as both audio master and clock master, then device complexity is reduced, but resynchronization needs and interruptions occur during clock master recovery
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the master device role into two separate functional roles: audio master and clock master. The audio master handles audio content distribution and playback coordination, while the clock master handles timing and synchronization. This segmentation eliminates the conflict that occurs when one device must handle both functions, preventing resynchronization issues during clock master recovery while maintaining overall system simplicity through clear role separation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the audio master changes, then audio content distribution flexibility improves, but resynchronization is required
Solution Approach 1:
By separating audio master and clock master functions, the patent allows the audio master to change without affecting the clock master. When audio content distribution needs to be reconfigured, a new audio master can be selected without triggering resynchronization, as the clock master continues to provide stable timing references to all devices independently of which device serves as audio master.
3Measurement precision
If clock master recovery is needed, then synchronization accuracy is maintained, but playback interruptions occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the clock master function from the audio playback function. When a clock master failure or recovery situation occurs, the clock master can be replaced or recovered without interrupting audio playback, because the audio master and audio playback devices continue operating independently. This segmentation allows clock synchronization accuracy to be maintained through proper clock master management while eliminating playback interruptions that would occur in a unified master system.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for wireless audio synchronization are disclosed herein. An example system includes a plurality of audio playback devices including a first audio playback device and a second audio playback device. The first audio playback device is connected to an audio source via a Bluetooth connection to receive audio content, and the first audio playback device is configured to distribute the audio content to at least one other audio playback device of the plurality of audio playback devices. The second audio playback device is configured to distribute clock information via a wireless network to at least one other audio playback device of the plurality of audio playback devices.