Method, signal processing unit, and computer program for mapping a plurality of input channels of an input channel configuration to output channels of an output channel configuration

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes an advanced method and system for automatically mapping multiple input audio channels (from any given channel configuration) to output audio channels (in possibly different configurations), such as when converting audio for various speaker setups. Instead of manually designing conversion rules for each possible combination, the invention uses a prioritized set of 'mapping rules' associated with each input channel. The relevant rule is automatically selected depending on the output speaker configuration, allowing expert knowledge (like psycho-acoustic factors and channel semantics) to be incorporated for optimal downmix quality, even for non-standard or future speaker layouts.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Home theater systems converting multi-channel soundtracks (e.g., 7.1, 5.1, 2.0) for different speaker setups.
• Professional audio production and content remastering, allowing adaptation of audio to target playback environments.
• Smart TVs and streaming devices dynamically adjusting audio for user-specific loudspeaker configurations.
• 3D/immersive audio rendering in VR/AR/XR applications, accommodating different headphone or speaker output layouts.
• Automotive infotainment systems adapting spatial sound to car speaker designs.
• Hearing assistive devices mapping multichannel audio to personalized output configurations.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Automates the channel mapping process, eliminating the need for manual tuning for every input/output format combination.
• Flexibly adapts to new, non-standard, or user-defined loudspeaker configurations (including those not known at design time).
• Produces higher quality audio downmixes by incorporating psycho-acoustic knowledge and channel semantics (e.g., speech clarity in the center channel, appropriate handling of ambient effects).
• Scalable and future-proof for new audio formats and speaker layouts, supporting easy updates or extensions.
• Minimizes processing complexity by prioritizing rules and avoiding unnecessary computation.
• Improves end-user experience by preserving audio intent and spatial accuracy across diverse playback scenarios.

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Patent Abstract

A method for mapping a plurality of input channels of an input channel configuration to output channels of an output channel configuration comprises providing a set of rules associated with each input channel of the plurality of input channels, wherein the rules define different mappings between the associated input channel and a set of output channels. For each input channel of the plurality of input channels, a rule associated with the input channel is accessed, determination is made whether the set of output channels defined in the accessed rule is present in the output channel configuration, and the accessed rule is selected if the set of output channels defined in the accessed rule is present in the output channel configuration. The input channels are mapped to the output channels according to the selected rule.