WO1997000491A1 - Procede et dispositif de creation d'un systeme audio independant dans des systemes sonores numeriques a ecoutes multiples - Google Patents

Procede et dispositif de creation d'un systeme audio independant dans des systemes sonores numeriques a ecoutes multiples Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO1997000491A1
WO1997000491A1 PCT/US1996/010450 US9610450W WO9700491A1 WO 1997000491 A1 WO1997000491 A1 WO 1997000491A1 US 9610450 W US9610450 W US 9610450W WO 9700491 A1 WO9700491 A1 WO 9700491A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
digital
audio signals
sound data
sound
user
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US1996/010450
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Andrew L. Carter
Original Assignee
Apple Computer, Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US08/490,549 external-priority patent/US5556107A/en
Application filed by Apple Computer, Inc. filed Critical Apple Computer, Inc.
Priority to AU63343/96A priority Critical patent/AU6334396A/en
Publication of WO1997000491A1 publication Critical patent/WO1997000491A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/50—Controlling the output signals based on the game progress
    • A63F13/54—Controlling the output signals based on the game progress involving acoustic signals, e.g. for simulating revolutions per minute [RPM] dependent engine sounds in a driving game or reverberation against a virtual wall
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
    • A63F13/80—Special adaptations for executing a specific game genre or game mode
    • A63F13/843—Special adaptations for executing a specific game genre or game mode involving concurrently two or more players on the same game device, e.g. requiring the use of a plurality of controllers or of a specific view of game data for each player
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F2300/00—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game
    • A63F2300/60—Methods for processing data by generating or executing the game program
    • A63F2300/6063—Methods for processing data by generating or executing the game program for sound processing
    • A63F2300/6081—Methods for processing data by generating or executing the game program for sound processing generating an output signal, e.g. under timing constraints, for spatialization
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • A63F2300/00—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game
    • A63F2300/80—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game specially adapted for executing a specific type of game
    • A63F2300/8088—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game specially adapted for executing a specific type of game involving concurrently several players in a non-networked game, e.g. on the same game console

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the field of digital audio systems, and more particularly, to audio systems used in digital devices such as personal computers, workstations, network servers and dedicated multimedia game devices and any other digital device where it may be desirable to provide separate audio to individual listeners.
  • multimedia game systems utilized two dimensional landscapes and iconic bit mapped action characters.
  • Game players viewed this two dimensional world through a low resolution cathode ray tube (CRT) which typically comprised a home television set.
  • CTR cathode ray tube
  • Software content was limited by low resolution graphics, low processor speeds, and in some instances, monaural audio provided to the game players.
  • the present invention provides an enhanced audio experience for each ofthe players of a multimedia game heretofore unknown in the prior art.
  • the game experience is enhanced and tailored to the particular player.
  • the present invention permits separate and independent audio to be perceived by each player, or groups of players, which may be a function ofthe game, of the players' language, the players' ability to handle more complex audio feedback, and or the players' technical understanding.
  • the present invention is useful for a wide variety of applications apart from games. Multiple user application programs, such as for education, may prove more effective if the individual users may be provided with individualized sound tracks and the present invention may be employed in all such applications.
  • the present invention may be used in conjunction with non-interactive application programs. Indeed, the present invention may be employed with any type of digital device where it is desirable to provide separate and independent sound to individual listeners or groups of listeners.
  • the present invention has application to any digital system such as a personal computer, dedicated multimedia game system, network server, workstation and the like wherein a single executable program at least partly controls the routing of separate and independent sound data to particular listeners.
  • a central processing unit may be coupled to a mass storage device, such as for example, a read-only memory game cartridge, CD-ROM, floppy disk or hard disk drive or remote network server.
  • the mass storage device stores a program (hereinafter referred to as an "audio program”) that includes audio components which is executed by the CPU and may also store a library of sound data.
  • the CPU may be coupled with any type of sound source such as a real time sound source.
  • a sound synthesizer circuit is coupled to the CPU for generating digital audio signals from the sound data stored in said mass storage device.
  • the CPU selectively provides sound data for a listener of the audio program to the sound synthesizer circuit.
  • a digital to audio converter (DAC) is coupled to receive digital audio signals from the sound synthesizer circuit and convert the digital audio signals into analog audio signals.
  • a listening device such as a headphone, is coupled to the DAC to convert the analog audio signals into sound waves to be heard by the listener.
  • the CPU directs certain portions of the sound data to each of the listeners, such that the listeners hear separate and independent audio as required by the program.
  • the DAC provides a stereo output having left and right channels.
  • the CPU directs sound data for a first listener to the left channel and sound data for a second listener to the right channel.
  • the two listeners each control separate multimedia controllers and wear headphones coupled to the multimedia controllers.
  • the headphones for the first listener are coupled to the left output channel of the DAC and the headphone for the second listener are coupled to the right output ofthe DAC.
  • each listener hears a separate and independent monaural channel of audio.
  • the stereo output ofthe DAC is coupled to an analog multiplexer which is under the control of the CPU.
  • a plurality of listeners operate multimedia controllers which are coupled to the multiplexer.
  • the CPU directs sound data destined for each listener independent of sound data destined for other listeners.
  • the CPU controls the multiplexer selection such that the appropriate multimedia controller is selected to receive the desired audio at the appropriate time.
  • the listener's headphones are coupled to the multimedia controller such that the listener hears audio intended for that listener independent of the other listeners.
  • the sound synthesizer circuit is coupled to a sound bus.
  • Separate DACs are provided for each hand controller and are coupled between the audio bus and the hand controllers.
  • a DAC control bus is provided which is coupled to the CPU and enable circuits for each of the DACs.
  • the CPU executing the audio program provides sound data to the sound synthesizer circuit which provides its digital audio signal output to the audio bus.
  • Each of the DACs are selectively enabled by a control signal coupled over the control bus by the CPU, such that substantially concurrent with the sound synthesizer circuit providing digital audio signals to the sound bus, the CPU enables the appropriate DAC corresponding to the desired destination multimedia controller and headphone.
  • the sound synthesizer circuit is coupled to a digital input device controller which is in turn coupled to a bi-directional high speed digital bus.
  • Each multimedia controller is coupled to the bus and includes a microcontroller and interface logic to receive and send data over the bus.
  • the microcontroller is coupled to a DAC to which a listener's headphones are in turn coupled.
  • an audio program executed by the CPU utilizes sound data stored in the mass storage device.
  • the CPU forwards sound data to a particular multimedia listener operating one of a plurality of multimedia controllers coupled to the bus.
  • the sound synthesizer circuit converts the sound data into digital audio signals, which are encapsulated into packets by the digital input device controller in accordance with the particular protocol of the bus.
  • the packet includes address information unique to the destination multimedia controller.
  • the packet is received by the destination multimedia controller and decapsulated to recover the digital audio signals which are then coupled to the DAC.
  • the DAC converts the digital audio signals into analog audio signals which are provided to the listener's headphones.
  • Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating a first embodiment of the present invention wherein monaural audio is provided to each listener.
  • Figure 2 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the present invention in which stereo sound is provided to each listener under the control of a central processing unit.
  • FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a third embodiment of the present invention wherein multiple digital to audio converters (DACs) are coupled to an audio bus, and wherein each of the DACs are under the control of a central processing unit.
  • DACs digital to audio converters
  • Figure 4 illustrates a block diagram of a fourth embodiment of the present invention wherein each of the listeners' controllers are coupled to a high speed digital bus.
  • Figure 5 is a block diagram of a multimedia controller utilized by the present invention's fourth embodiment shown in Figure 4.
  • the present invention discloses methods and apparatus for providing separate and independent audio experiences to persons listening to the audio output of a digital system.
  • numerous specific details are set forth, such as system architectures, representative devices, and exemplary hardware configurations, etc. to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details.
  • the present invention is described with reference to a personal computer, it should be noted that the teachings of the present invention may be dedicated multimedia systems, other general purpose digital computers, DVD players (digital video disk players), set top boxes and the like, which are configured by either hardware or software to run programs that include, either directly or indirectly, sound information.
  • DVD players digital video disk players
  • set top boxes which are configured by either hardware or software to run programs that include, either directly or indirectly, sound information.
  • multimedia controller includes human input devices such as hand-held game controllers, joysticks, remote controls, keyboard and similar devices.
  • a central processing unit (CPU) 10 runs a single instance of an executable program that at least partly controls the routing of separate and independent sound data to particular listeners.
  • the present invention is thus in contrast to network games such as "Marathon" where multiple copies of an executable program run on separate computers and each copy ofthe program provides sound data to a user through his or her associated computer.
  • a single executable program as opposed to multiple copies of the same program, provides separate sound to listeners, it will be appreciated that the single program may be run across multiple processors within a single digital device or within a network.
  • a single computer may use multiple processors to execute a main program.
  • a server may provide distinct audio programs for separate users of a game, movie or such. Each user may have a separate computer that translates, extracts or otherwise processes the audio program for that user but the primary program is running on the server.
  • the CPU 10 is coupled through supporting circuitry (not shown) to an input/output (I/O) circuit 12.
  • the I/O circuit 12 is used to communicate information in appropriately structured form to I/O devices and to provide a video output to a display 14.
  • the display 14 may comprise a computer monitor.
  • the visual output of an audio program such as for example, a multimedia game, an educational program or the like is displayed on the display 14.
  • Figure 1 illustrates a multimedia system, it will be understood that the present invention is applicable to digital systems that do not have video components.
  • a mass data storage device 16 is coupled to the CPU 10.
  • the mass data storage device 16 may comprise a hard disk drive, a read-only memory (ROM) multimedia cartridge, a CD-ROM, remote network server or other read-only or writable mass storage device.
  • the mass storage device 16 stores the application program which is executed by CPU 10. As such, the CPU 10 is under program control in accordance with the instructions stored in the mass storage device 16.
  • Mass storage device 16 further stores a library of sound data which is used by the particular program executed by CPU 10.
  • the sound data stored on the mass storage device 16 may comprise sound data, analog sound data, MIDI code sequences and the like. Therefore, it is contemplated that whatever form mass storage device 16 takes, the necessary application program, images (if any), and sounds required by the particular application are stored therein and are accessible to the CPU 10. It will further be appreciated that in the embodiments disclosed in this Specification, that the application program, and/or the sound data, may be downloaded from a network for storage in the mass storage device 16 or for direct execution by the CPU 10. It will be further appreciated that in the embodiments the CPU 10 need not be coupled to a mass storage device that stores sound data and may be coupled with any type of sound source such as a real time sound source which may be natural or synthetic.
  • a sound synthesizer circuit 18 is coupled to, and under the control of, CPU 10.
  • the sound synthesis circuit 18 may comprise digital hardware or be implemented in software to achieve substantially the same functionality.
  • the sound synthesizer circuit generates the required audio output under the control of CPU 10 utilizing the sound data stored in the mass storage device 16.
  • the output ofthe sound synthesizer circuit 18 is coupled to a digital to audio converter (DAC) 20, which receives the digital output ofthe sound synthesizer circuit 18 and converts the digital audio data into analog electrical signals.
  • DAC digital to audio converter
  • the output of the DAC 20 comprises left (L) output 22 and right (R) output 24.
  • the left 22 and right 24 outputs comprise a stereo audio output which was perceived by all listeners ofthe multimedia system.
  • the left 22 and right 24 outputs ofthe DAC 20 are coupled to separate multimedia controllers 26 and 28, as shown in the figure.
  • multimedia controllers 26 and 28 are used by listeners of the multimedia application to interact with CPU 10 through the I/O circuit 12. Depending on the particular multimedia application program executed by CPU 10, each of the respective listeners must provide appropriate inputs using multimedia controllers 26 and 28.
  • a headphone 29 is coupled to the multimedia controller 26, and a headphone 32 coupled to the multimedia controller 28.
  • the separate sound data need not be provided through a headphone but may be provided, for example, to separate groups of listeners in different rooms.
  • the present invention is in no way limited to interactive applications or programs that include a video component.
  • this first embodiment provides independent audio outputs in monaural form to each of the respective listeners.
  • the sound data stored in the mass storage device 16 will be selectively provided, that is routed, to each ofthe listeners by CPU 10 as required by the particular audio program.
  • the left and right channels output different audio experiences to the respective listeners.
  • the application may comprise a program that allows two or more users to simultaneously create a multimedia application.
  • One user may be assigned the task of creating shape outlines while the other user may be assigned the task of filling in the outlines.
  • the users may be provided with audio feedback to indicate certain events, such as when a boundary has been inappropriately crossed. To avoid confusion, it would be desirable to provide the users with separate audio so that each user may concentrate on his or her own creation process.
  • a user operating multimedia controller 26 would hear sounds unique to his or her own creations.
  • a user operating multimedia controller 28 would hear sounds unique to his or her own creations.
  • Each user would not necessarily hear the audio provided to the other user, thereby avoiding confusion, although in certain applications it may be desirable for both users to hear some common sounds.
  • These common sounds may be supplied under the control or direction of CPU 10, or alternatively, may be provided using, a separate line, or using a sum or difference technique known in the Art.
  • the invention also contemplates providing two or more channels of sound in each output so each user may experience stereo or multichannel sound.
  • both headsets 29 and 32 are illustrated as being coupled to the multimedia controllers 26 and 28, respectively, through a wire coupling.
  • both the multimedia controllers and headphones may be coupled to the multimedia system in a wireless manner.
  • the multimedia controllers may communicate with the multimedia system, and/or the headphones may receive audio signals, either from the multimedia system or from the multimedia controllers using, for example, infrared or RF transmission mediums.
  • Figure 2 therein is disclosed a block diagram illustrating a second embodiment ofthe present invention.
  • a CPU 40 is coupled to an I/O circuit 42.
  • the I/O circuit 42 is coupled to a display 44 for displaying the visual output of an application program executed by the CPU 40.
  • a mass storage device 46 stores the audio program for execution by the CPU 40 as well as sound data to provide the audio experience for the application program.
  • a sound synthesizer circuit 50 is coupled to the CPU 40 for generating a digital representation of the required sounds under the control of the CPU 40, and utilizing the sound data stored in the mass storage device 46.
  • a DAC 52 is coupled to the sound synthesizer circuit 50 for converting the digital output of the sound synthesizer circuit 50 into an analog output.
  • An analog multiplexer 55 is coupled to the output of the DAC 52.
  • a multiplex control line 56 is provided between the CPU 40 and the analog multiplexer 55.
  • the analog multiplexer 55 is coupled to multimedia controllers 60, 62, 64 and 66. Headphones 68, 70, 72 and 74 are coupled to the respective multimedia controllers as shown in the figure.
  • the analog multiplexer 55 is illustrated as a four-way multiplexer in Figure 2, it will appreciated by one skilled in the art that the multiplexer 55 may have fewer or greater number of multimedia controllers coupled to it as required by a particular multimedia system or application.
  • the multimedia controllers illustrated in Figure 2 are coupled to the CPU 40 over a multimedia control bus 80 through the I/O circuit 42.
  • the multimedia control bus 80 may comprise an analog parallel bus or, with appropriate circuitry and supporting logic, a digital serial or parallel bus.
  • Figure 2 illustrates the multiplex control line 56 coupled between the CPU 40 and the analog multiplexer 55, it will be noted by one skilled in the art that additional circuitry may be required (and is not shown) in order to provide control over the analog multiplexer 55 by the CPU 40.
  • additional support circuitry required to implement the present invention as illustrated in Figure 2 is well-known, and therefore, not described in this Specification.
  • audio to be routed to a user operating multimedia controller 60 is provided by the CPU 40 to the sound synthesis circuit 50 and the DAC 52.
  • the output of the DAC 52 is coupled to the analog multiplexer 55 which is selected by the CPU 40 to provide its output at the appropriate time to the multimedia controller 60 and headphones 68.
  • the multimedia application may group users operating the multimedia controllers 60 and 62 as a first team, and users operating the multimedia controllers 64 and 66 as a second team.
  • the analog multiplexer 55 need only switch between two groups of users thereby reducing the speed requirements of the system.
  • multimedia applications such as for example a helicopter gun ship squadron battling a tank squadron
  • the users operating within each group of multimedia controllers would hear only audio signals appropriate for their group.
  • the users commanding the helicopter gun ships will hear only helicopter gun ship audio
  • the tank users will hear only tank communications and other audio associated with the tank group.
  • a separate common line may be used between the multiplexer and the multimedia controllers, or altematively, the multiplexer may sequentially provide the common audio to each multimedia controller.
  • a CPU 100 is coupled to an I/O circuit 102.
  • the I/O circuit 102 is coupled to a display 104 for displaying the application program executed by the CPU 100 under the control of software stored in, for example, a mass storage device 106.
  • the mass storage device 106 further stores sound data required by the particular audio program executed by the CPU 100.
  • a sound synthesizer circuit 108 is coupled to the CPU 100 for generating digital representations of sounds required by the program using, for example, the audio data stored in the mass storage device 106.
  • the sound synthesizer circuit 108 is coupled to an audio bus 110.
  • DACs 112, 114, 116 and 118 are coupled to receive the output ofthe sound synthesizer circuit 108 over the audio bus 110. Although four DACs are illustrated in Figure 3, it will appreciated that depending upon the particular multimedia system and/or program, any number of DACs may be coupled to sound bus 110.
  • multimedia controllers 120, 122, 124 and 126 are coupled, respectively, to the DACs 112, 114, 116 and 118. Headphones 130, 132, 134 and 136 are coupled to the respective multimedia controllers.
  • a multimedia control bus 140 is provided to couple signals originating from each of the multimedia controllers to the CPU 100 through the I/O circuit 102.
  • the multimedia control bus 140 may comprise an analog parallel bus, or alternatively, with appropriate digital logic, a digital serial or parallel bus.
  • DACs 112, 114, 116 and 118 are each coupled to a DAC control bus 142.
  • the CPU 100 is also coupled to each of the DACs over the DAC control bus 142.
  • CPU 100 executing the application program stored in the mass storage device 106 provides sound data to the sound synthesizer circuit 108.
  • the output of the sound synthesizer circuit 108 is coupled to the audio bus 110.
  • Sound data destined for a particular user is routed to that user by selectively enabling each of the DACs 112, 114, 116 and 118 by a control signal provided over the DAC control bus 142 from the CPU 100.
  • Audio data directed to the user operating, for example, the multimedia controller 120 is provided over the audio bus 110 by the sound synthesizer circuit 108.
  • the CPU 100 provides an enable signal to the DAC 112 over the DAC control bus 142.
  • audio data destined for multimedia controller 120 is only received by multimedia controller 120 and not the other multimedia controllers coupled to the system.
  • audio data destined for any ofthe other multimedia controllers illustrated in Figure 2 is provided to the desired multimedia controller through the selective enabling of the corresponding DAC by the CPU 100.
  • Common audio data which is destined for all (or groups) of multimedia controllers is provided by enabling all, or a selected set, ofthe DACs.
  • a CPU 200 is coupled to an O circuit 202 and to a mass storage device 204.
  • the I O circuit 202 is coupled to a display 206 for displaying the visual portion of an application program executed by the CPU 200 and stored in the mass storage device 204.
  • Sound data representing the audio portion of the program is also stored in the mass storage device 204, as previously described with reference to the other embodiments.
  • a sound synthesizer circuit 208 is coupled to the CPU 200 for generating the required sound signals utilizing the sound data stored in the mass storage device 204.
  • a digital input device controller 210 is coupled to receive the digital audio output from the sound synthesizer circuit 208.
  • the digital input device controller may comprise hardware under the control ofthe CPU 200.
  • the digital input device controller 210 is coupled to a digital bi-directional high speed bus 212.
  • Multimedia controllers 214, 216, 218 and 220 are also coupled to the high speed bus 212.
  • digital audio is coupled over the high speed bus 212 to the multimedia controllers, and listener commands are coupled through the digital input device controller 210 to the CPU 200.
  • Headphones 222, 224, 226 and 228 are coupled to their respective multimedia controllers to provide independent audio to each ofthe listeners.
  • the embodiment illustrated in Figure 4 is almost entirely digital. Selections made by users using the multimedia controllers 214, 216, 218 and 220 are coupled over the high speed bus 212 to the digital input device controller 210 and the CPU 200. Similarly, digitized audio to be directed independently to each ofthe users is coupled over the high speed bus 212 and addressed to the desired multimedia controller. It is contemplated that the high speed bus 212 may comprise the Apple® FirewireTM (IEEE 1394-1995), the Intel® Universal Serial Bus, or other bus having similar high speed capabilities.
  • FIG. 4 Also shown in Figure 4 are optional microphones 230, 232, 234 and 236 coupled to each of the multimedia controllers.
  • the embodiment illustrated in Figure 4 provides not only full stereo audio to each of the users, but also permits audio feedback from each of the users to the other users as may be desired in a particular multimedia or other application. It will be appreciated that other forms of sound, such as monaural sound, may be provided to each of the users.
  • a program executed by the CPU 200 utilizes sound data stored in the mass storage device 204 to generate unique independent sounds to each listener as provided by the application.
  • the digital input device controller 210 handles the two-way communication of data and sound between the multimedia controllers 214, 216, 218 and 220. Illustrated in Figure 5 is a representative multimedia controller 214 which includes a serial bus interface cirr -40 coupled over line 242 to the high speed bus 212.
  • the microcontroller 242 may comprise a ge* , ai purpose microprocessor, or altematively, may comprise a custom microcontroller.
  • _ DAC 246 is coupled to the microcontroller 242 and to headphones 248.
  • Sound data is provided from the sound synthesizer circuit 208 through the digital input device controller 210 and coupled over the high speed bus 212 to the serial bus interface 240.
  • the microcontroller 242 further couples this digitized audio to the DAC 246 which converts the digitized audio into analog signals.
  • a user utilizing the multimedia controller 214 will then hear independent audio intended for, and directed to, that listener using the headphones 248.
  • the multimedia controller 214 includes various input devices such as push button switches 260 and four-way rocker switches 262.
  • a listener operating the multimedia controller 214 provides multimedia input commands to the CPU 200 through the use of switches 260 and 262. Signals generated by the switches 260 and 262 are coupled to the microcontroller 242 and are ultimately coupled through the serial bus interface 240 to the high speed bus 212.
  • the digital input device controller 210 receives these input command signals and couples them to the CPU 200.
  • microphone 230 is coupled to an analog to digital (A/D) converter 270, which is in turn coupled to the microcontroller 242. Audio input may thereby be provided to other users, or to the CPU 200, depending on the multimedia application.
  • A/D analog to digital
  • the packet is routed to the destination multimedia controller and decapsulated to recover the digital audio signals.
  • the digital audio signals are then coupled to the DAC which provides analog audio signals to the listener's headphones.
  • the embodiment illustrated in Figure 4 permits very high levels of performance and flexibihty.
  • Individuals and groups of listeners may selectively receive communications between one another depending upon the apphcation. For example, in the context of an educational application wherein different student groups share access to the same application, those group members may receive and transmit secure communications between one another through the use of headphones (for example, headphone 248) and the microphones (for example, microphone 230) coupled to the multimedia controllers.
  • headphones for example, headphone 248
  • the microphones for example, microphone 230
  • each ofthe listeners may communicate through voice recognition software directly with the CPU 200, and thereby achieve a level of dialog and interaction with the application program.
  • LAN local area networks
  • WAN wide area networks
  • telephone optical fiber, two-way cable, and/or satellite links with other multimedia listeners and/or computers.
  • networking of systems employing the teachings ofthe present invention will permit independent and separate audio experiences to each of the listeners receiving sound information through the network.
  • the present invention is applicable to any architecture wherein a single executable program directs the listening experience for two or more listeners.
  • the single executable program may be run across multiple processors, such as where a program operating on a first processor invokes a remote procedure call to a second processor.
  • the program may also be resident on a server, such as a world wide web server, that provides multimedia content to a client. Even though the client may be running an executable program to interpret the instructions of the server program, the server program, which corresponds to the audio program ofthe present invention, directs the listening experience.
  • the server program may merely download data or an apphcation program.
  • the client may then inte ⁇ ret the downloaded content (eg. display any visual portions and convert the audio data to sound) or run the application program according to the teachings of the present invention.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Multimedia (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Acoustics & Sound (AREA)
  • Stereophonic System (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne des systèmes numériques à écoutes multiples. Un processeur central (CPU) est couplé à une mémoire de grande capacité, telle que, par exemple, une cartouche multimédia à mémoire fixe, un CD-ROM, une unité de disque souple ou de disque dur. La mémoire de grande capacité mémorise un programme d'exécution audio exécuté par le processeur central et, également, une banque de données de son. Un circuit synthétiseur de son est couplé au processeur central, de manière à produire des signaux audio numériques à partir des données de son mémorisées dans ladite mémoire de grande capacité. Sous la commande d'un programme unique exécutable, le processeur central produit sélectivement des données de son destinées à un auditeur du programme audio vers le circuit synthétiseur de son. Un convertisseur de numérique à audio (DAC) est couplé de manière à recevoir les signaux audio numériques depuis le circuit synthétiseur de son et à convertir les signaux audio numériques en signaux audio analogiques. Un dispositif d'écoute, tel qu'un casque, est couplé au convertisseur (DAC), afin de convertir les signaux audio analogiques en ondes sonores conçues pour être écoutées par l'auditeur. Sous la commande du programme, le processeur central dirige certaines des données de son vers chacun des auditeurs, de sorte que ces derniers écoutent leur programme audio de façon indépendante et séparée.
PCT/US1996/010450 1995-06-15 1996-06-17 Procede et dispositif de creation d'un systeme audio independant dans des systemes sonores numeriques a ecoutes multiples WO1997000491A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU63343/96A AU6334396A (en) 1995-06-15 1996-06-17 Method and apparatus for providing independent audio in multiple listener digital sound systems

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US08/490,549 1995-06-15
US08/490,549 US5556107A (en) 1995-06-15 1995-06-15 Computer game apparatus for providing independent audio in multiple player game systems
US63514896A 1996-04-23 1996-04-23
US08/635,148 1996-04-23

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO1997000491A1 true WO1997000491A1 (fr) 1997-01-03

Family

ID=27050089

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US1996/010450 WO1997000491A1 (fr) 1995-06-15 1996-06-17 Procede et dispositif de creation d'un systeme audio independant dans des systemes sonores numeriques a ecoutes multiples

Country Status (2)

Country Link
AU (1) AU6334396A (fr)
WO (1) WO1997000491A1 (fr)

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2000028409A1 (fr) * 1998-11-05 2000-05-18 Gateway, Inc. Denumeriseurs audio multiples compatibles avec les ordinateurs personnels
US6502142B1 (en) 1998-12-21 2002-12-31 Gateway, Inc. Multiple audio and video signal routing with PC compatibility

Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO1995008793A1 (fr) * 1993-09-23 1995-03-30 Virtual Universe Corporation Reseau de realite virtuelle

Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO1995008793A1 (fr) * 1993-09-23 1995-03-30 Virtual Universe Corporation Reseau de realite virtuelle

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
HOFFMAN G ET AL: "IEEE 1394: a ubiquitous bus", DIGEST OF PAPERS. COMPCON '95. TECHNOLOGIES FOR THE INFORMATION SUPERHIGHWAY (CAT. NO.95CH35737), DIGEST OF PAPERS. COMPCON'95. TECHNOLOGIES FOR THE INFORMATION SUPERHIGHWAY, SAN FRANCISCO, CA, USA, 5-9 MARCH 1995, ISBN 0-8186-7029-0, 1995, LOS ALAMITOS, CA, USA, IEEE COMPUT. SOC. PRESS, USA, pages 334 - 338, XP000545446 *

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2000028409A1 (fr) * 1998-11-05 2000-05-18 Gateway, Inc. Denumeriseurs audio multiples compatibles avec les ordinateurs personnels
US7151970B1 (en) 1998-11-05 2006-12-19 Gateway Inc. Multiple audio DACs with PC compatibility
US6502142B1 (en) 1998-12-21 2002-12-31 Gateway, Inc. Multiple audio and video signal routing with PC compatibility

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
AU6334396A (en) 1997-01-15

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US5556107A (en) Computer game apparatus for providing independent audio in multiple player game systems
US7295548B2 (en) Method and system for disaggregating audio/visual components
US6928329B1 (en) Enabling separate chat and selective enablement of microphone
US8873767B2 (en) Audio or audio/visual interactive entertainment system and switching device therefor
US20070087686A1 (en) Audio playback device and method of its operation
CN1750717B (zh) 再现音频信号的方法及其回放装置
JPH01115300A (ja) 音場制御装置
JP2001327754A (ja) ゲーム用コントローラ
JPH06261398A (ja) 音場制御装置
US20120155671A1 (en) Information processing apparatus, method, and program and information processing system
US7110940B2 (en) Recursive multistage audio processing
JP2022083443A (ja) オーディオと関連してユーザカスタム型臨場感を実現するためのコンピュータシステムおよびその方法
JPH09510065A (ja) マルチメディア・ワークステーション、マルチチャネルａ／ｖネットワーク、およびディジタル・データ・ネットワークによる選択可能なオーディオ／ビデオ（ａ／ｖ）配布
JPH10211359A (ja) ゲーム機における音声発生装置及び方法並びに媒体
WO1997000491A1 (fr) Procede et dispositif de creation d'un systeme audio independant dans des systemes sonores numeriques a ecoutes multiples
JPH09501280A (ja) 商業航空機その他の乗物用統合ビデオ・オーディオ信号配分システム
JP2005086537A (ja) 高臨場音場再現情報送信装置、高臨場音場再現情報送信プログラム、高臨場音場再現情報送信方法および高臨場音場再現情報受信装置、高臨場音場再現情報受信プログラム、高臨場音場再現情報受信方法
JP4126246B2 (ja) 演奏データ通信システム
JP4131678B2 (ja) 演奏データ通信システム
WO2022168547A1 (fr) Dispositif de commande qui applique un stimulus tactile
CN1023052C (zh) 电视游戏机的声音图象系统
JPH09284662A (ja) テレビジョン受像機
JPH03194597A (ja) 自動演奏システム
WO1994024836A1 (fr) Systeme et procede d'emission de sons interactif
Hamilton Q3osc or: How I Learned to Stopworrying and Love the Bomb Game.

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AK Designated states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AM AT AU AZ BB BG BR BY CA CH CN CZ DE DK EE ES FI GB GE HU IL IS JP KE KG KP KR KZ LK LR LS LT LU LV MD MG MK MN MW MX NO NZ PL PT RO RU SD SE SG SI SK TJ TM TR TT UA UG UZ VN AM AZ BY KG KZ MD RU TJ TM

AL Designated countries for regional patents

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): KE LS MW SD SZ UG AT BE CH DE DK ES FI FR GB GR IE IT LU MC NL PT SE BF BJ CF CG CI CM GA GN

121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application
REG Reference to national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: 8642

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: CA

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase