US20080123868A1 - Wired, wireless, infrared, and powerline audio entertainment systems - Google Patents

Abstract

A method and system for communicating audio signals between an input device and an output device via a network. The output device can include loudspeakers and headphones. In some embodiments an output device, for example a center channel speaker, transmits audio signals to other output devices. In some embodiments, the output device is coupled to, or combined with, a speaker stand or speaker bracket. The network can be wireless, wired, infrared, RF, and powerline.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS
• This application is a divisional of co-pending patent application Ser. No. 10/613,596, filed Jul. 3, 2003 and entitled Wired, Wireless, Infrared, and Powerline Audio Entertainment Systems, which is a continuation-in-part patent application of patent application Ser. No. 10/353,805, filed Jan. 27, 2003 and entitled Wired, Wireless, Infrared, and Powerline Audio Entertainment Systems, which claims priority to provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/351,843, filed Jan. 25, 2002 and entitled Wired, Wireless, and Powerline Audio Entertainment Systems, Ser. No. 60/353,806, filed Feb. 1, 2002 and entitled Wired, Wireless, and Powerline Audio Entertainment Systems, Ser. No. 60/371,268, filed Apr. 8, 2002, and entitled Wired, Wireless, Infrared, and Powerline Audio Entertainment Systems, and Ser. No. 60/407,432, filed Aug. 28, 2002, and entitled Wired, Wireless, Infrared, and Powerline Audio Entertainment Systems, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
• 1. Field of the Invention
• This invention relates to home networks. More particularly, the invention provides a method and system for communicating audio and control signals, via a wired, wireless, infrared, or a powerline medium, to control one or more remote entertainment systems throughout a home.
• 2. Description of Related Art
• A communication system for a home network facilitates two-way communication between a plurality of devices within the home. These devices can be fixed or portable and can include, for example, televisions, computers, stereos, speakers, monitors, printers, and other electronic appliances. For these devices to communicate throughout a home, they interface with the home network.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
• The systems and methods of the present invention have several features, no single one of which is solely responsible for its desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of this invention, its more prominent features will now be discussed briefly. After considering this discussion, and particularly after reading the section entitled “Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments” one will understand how the features of this invention provide several advantages over traditional audio entertainment systems.
• One aspect of the invention relates to a method for communicating an audio signal along with an associated control signal between a source transmitter bridged to a wired, wireless, infrared, or powerline data stream or network.
• Another aspect of the invention relates to a system including a receiver, processor, and amplifier wherein the audio signal and the associated control signal are received via the network. The audio signal is amplified and broadcast via a loudspeaker, Embodiments of the loudspeaker include headphones, mono loudspeaker, stereo loudspeaker, and multi-channel loudspeaker systems.
• Still another aspect is an apparatus for receiving an audio signal via a network. The apparatus comprises a housing, a receiver module located in the housing and configured to receive a combined signal via a network and extract a control signal and an audio signal from the combined signal, and a plug coupled to the housing and configured for insertion into an electrical receptacle. The apparatus further comprising a power supply in the housing, coupled to the plug and configured to distribute electrical energy to the receiver module, and an output wire configured to couple the housing to an output device.
• Yet another aspect is an apparatus for transmitting an audio signal via a network. The apparatus comprises a housing, a transmitter module located in the housing and configured to receive an audio signal and a control signal, combine the audio and control signals into a combined signal, and transmit the combined signal to a receiver module via a network. The apparatus further comprising a plug coupled to the housing and configured for insertion into an electrical receptacle, a power supply in the housing, coupled to the plug and configured to distribute electrical energy to the transmitter module, and an input wire configured to couple the housing to an input device.
• Another aspect is an apparatus for receiving an audio signal via a network. The apparatus comprises a first housing that comprises a receiver module configured to receive a combined signal via a network and extract a control signal and an audio signal from the combined signal. The apparatus further comprising a second housing that comprises a plug configured for insertion into an electrical receptacle and a power supply coupled to the plug and configured to distribute electrical energy to the receiver module. The apparatus still further comprising a wire coupled between the first housing and the second housing and an output wire configured to couple the first housing to an output device.
• A further aspect is an apparatus for transmitting an audio signal via a network. The apparatus comprises a first housing that comprises a transmitter module configured to receive an audio signal and a control signal, combine the audio and control signals into a combined signal, and transmit the combined signal to a receiver module via a network. The apparatus further comprises a second housing that comprises a plug configured for insertion into an electrical receptacle and a power supply coupled to the plug and configured to distribute electrical energy to the transmitter module. The apparatus still further comprising an input wire configured to couple the first housing to an input device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a communication system for a home network that can be connected using a wired, wireless, or powerline network.
• FIG. 1A is a block diagram of an embodiment of the communication system that has a set top box connected to a loudspeaker using a wired, wireless, or powerline network.
• FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a first embodiment of the transmitter module fromFIG. 1, which includes a plurality of audio inputs.
• FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the transmitter shown inFIG. 2.
• FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the transmitter module fromFIG. 1, which includes a single audio input.
• FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an Tx powerline module fromFIG. 2.
• FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a first embodiment of the receiver module fromFIG. 1, which includes an amplifier.
• FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the receiver module fromFIG. 1.
• FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an Rx powerline module fromFIG. 6.
• FIG. 9 is a flowchart of an exemplary process that is performed by the transmitter module to transmit a Tx signal and a Tx control signal into a powerline network.
• FIG. 10 is a flowchart of an exemplary process that is performed by the receiver module to receive an Rx signal and an Rx control signal from the transmitter module via the powerline network.
• FIG. 11 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a communication system that utilizes an infrared (IR) network.
• FIG. 11A is a block diagram of receiver components which can be located in a surround or speaker enclosure.
• FIG. 11B is a diagram showing multiple embodiments of a loudspeaker and receiver components fromFIG. 11A.
• FIG. 11C is a block diagram of receiver components for a center channel loudspeaker that is configured to connect with one or more remote loudspeakers via a wireless, wired, or powerline network.
• FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a housing for the receiver components fromFIG. 11A.
• FIG. 13 is a block diagram of one embodiment of the IR transmitter shown inFIG. 11.
• FIG. 14 is a block diagram of audio and control signal paths through an embodiment of thereceiver components1140 fromFIG. 11.
• FIG. 15 is a block diagram of a receiver housing which comprises an AC/DC power supply collocated with the receiver (Rx) components fromFIG. 1.
• FIG. 16 is a block diagram of a transmitter housing which comprises an AC/DC power supply collocated with the transmitter (Tx) components fromFIG. 1.
• FIG. 17 is a block diagram of the receiver housing fromFIG. 15 adapted to wire to a wall socket.
• FIG. 18 is a block diagram of the transmitter housing fromFIG. 16 adapted to wire to a wall socket.
• FIG. 19 is a block diagram of a first housing for an AC/DC power supply which is wired to a second housing for the receiver components fromFIG. 1.
• FIG. 20 is a block diagram of a first housing for an AC/DC power supply which is wired to a second housing for the transmitter components fromFIG. 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
• Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying figures, wherein like numerals refer to like elements throughout. The terminology used in the description presented herein is not intended to be interpreted in any limited or restrictive manner simply because it is being utilized in conjunction with a detailed description of certain specific preferred embodiments of the present invention.
• In connection with the following description many of the components of the various systems and the entire systems, some of which are referred to as “module,” can be implemented as software, firmware or a hardware component, such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), which performs certain tasks. Such components or modules may advantageously be configured to reside on the addressable storage medium and configured to execute on one or more processors. Thus, a module may include, by way of example, components, such as software components, object-oriented software components, class components and task components, processes, functions, attributes, procedures, subroutines, segments of program code, drivers, firmware, microcode, circuitry, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays, and variables. The functionality provided for in the components and modules may be combined into fewer components and modules or further separated into additional components and modules. Additionally, the components and modules may advantageously be implemented to execute on one or more computers.
• FIG. 1 is a block diagram of acommunication system100 configured to provide network connectivity throughout a home. Thecommunication system100 receives an input signal from aninput device102. Types of input signals can include, for example, audio, video, textual, and control signals. These signals can originate from one ormore input devices102 depending on the type of input signal. For ease of explanation, the following description uses an audio signal as an exemplary input signal to thecommunication system100. However, thecommunication system100 is not so limited and can be used with video, textual, and any other information signal. Examples ofinput devices102 that generate an audio signal include a personal computer, digital video disk (DVD) player, a stereo receiver, MP3 player, compact disk (CD) player, digital audio tape (DAT), and the like. Examples of control signals include, volume level, fader level, balance level, sub-bass level, destination source, sound processing selection, equalizer levels, power on, power off, or any other manipulation of the audio signal.
• Connected to theinput devices102 is atransmitter module104. Thetransmitter module104 receives the audio signal, and any control signals, from theinput devices102. As mentioned above, an exemplary control signal is a desired volume level. The sources of the control signal can include theinput device102. In one embodiment, thetransmitter module104 includes a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) (not shown). The DSP is configured to process and encode the control signal and the audio signal prior to their transmission by thetransmitter module104. For example, the address of a destination receiver module108(a)-(n) can be encoded by the DSP. Alternatively, control signals can originate at thetransmitter module104. For example, a switch (not shown) can be coupled to thetransmitter104 to allow a user to select the destination receiver module108(a)-(n) that will receive the audio signal.
• The network ortransmitter module104 forms a bridge between theinput devices102 and a network, for example, apowerline medium106. A powerline network uses an existing infrastructure of alternating current (AC) electrical power outlets in the walls of a home or building to form multiple electrical connections between any two of the power outlets. Power outlets are located almost everywhere someone might want to use a networked device in a home or building. Thus, the powerline network allows a user to remotely connect to the networked device via the existing power outlets. The network inFIG. 1 is apowerline106 network. However, the communication is not so limited. Other exemplary networks include wireless, infrared, IRDA, and wired networks.
• Thetransmitter module104 is configured to combine the control signal with the audio signal produced by theinput device102 to form a combined signal. Thetransmitter module104 is further configured to modulate the combined signal so as to convert the signals to a form which is compatible with transmission via thepowerline106. An exemplary method for this conversion includes the use of a media access control (MAC) protocol coupled with a physical layer (PHY). The MAC and PHY can utilize data packets for the transmission of the combined signal. The MAC protocol controls the sharing of a PHY layer amongmultiple transmitters104 and receivers108(a)-(n), while the PHY specifies the modulation, coding, and basic packet formats which are used to transmit along thepowerline106. An exemplary transmission technique used by thecommunication system100 is orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM). The detail components which perform the conversion of the combined signal for its transmission via thepowerline106 are illustrated in, and will be explained with reference to,FIG. 5.
• Alternatively, the audio signal and the control signal that are converted from an analog to a digital form are formatted at theinput source102 for their transmission. The formatted signals are sent to thenetwork106 without being processed by thetransmitter104.
• Thetransmitter module104 can connect with thepowerline106 viainput power receptacle105, such as a standard 3-prong electrical outlet. Alternatively, thetransmitter module104 is directly hard wired to thepowerline106. More detailed block diagrams of thetransmitter module104 are illustrated in, and will be described with reference to,FIGS. 2,3, and4. A process for formatting and transmitting a combined signal via thepowerline106, that can be performed by thetransmitter module104 ofFIG. 1, is shown in, and will be described with reference to,FIG. 9.
• Thepowerline106 connects with one or more receiver modules108(a)-(n) via an output power receptacle107(a)-(n). The output power receptacle107(a)-(n) operates in the same fashion as theinput power receptacle105. The output power receptacle107(a)-(n) directly connects with the receiver module108(a)-(n) while theinput power receptacle105 directly connects with thetransmitter module104. However, the input and output power receptacles can be cross identified depending on how they are utilized within thepowerline communication system100. For example,input power receptacle105 can be used by the receiver module108(a)-(n). Moreover, theinput power receptacle105 can be used simultaneously by the receiver module108(a)-(n) and thetransmitter module104 to, for example, couple both for use in the same room of the home.
• Apowerline106 is a difficult environment for audio signals. The communication path between any twopower receptacle105,107 in the home can have a complicated transfer function with many branches of thepowerline106 having terminating loads at each receptacle with different impedances. Further, the transfer function can change with time due to the connection or removal of common electrical devices into thepowerline106. Thus, the amplitude and phase response of thepowerline106 can vary widely with frequency.
• The network or receiver module108(a)-(n) is configured to receive the data packets from thepowerline106 and extract the audio signal and the control signal included therein. The detail components which may be used to perform the extraction of the control and audio signals are illustrated in, and will be explained with reference to,FIG. 8.
• The receiver module108(a)-(n) utilizes the control signal to manipulate the audio signal. This manipulation can include, for example, detection of audio signal peaking and clipping. The receiver module108(a)-(n) may be configured to automatically adjust the audio signal's level to adjust for detection of peaking or clipping. The receiver module108(a)-(n) may also be configured to receive a code which determines a phase for the audio signal. The receiver108(a)-(n) then manipulates the audio signal such that a desired phase relationship is maintained with other loudspeakers on the network based on the code. This can be accomplished by coding a time or phase delay in the control signal. More detailed block diagrams of the receiver module108(a)-(n) are illustrated in, and will be described with reference to,FIGS. 6 and 7. A process for receiving and extracting the audio signal and the control signal from the received combined signal, that can be performed by the receiver module108(a)-(b) ofFIG. 1, is shown in, and will be described with reference to,FIG. 10.
• Still referring toFIG. 1, anoutput device110 is connected to the receiver module108(a)-(n) and receives the manipulated audio signal from the receiver module108(a)-(n). Theoutput device110 is configured to change the audio signal into sounds loud enough to be heard at a selected distance.Output devices110 can include, for example, stereo loudspeakers, home theater loudspeakers, and headphones.
• As one can now recognize, thecommunication system100 ofFIG. 1 provides wired connectivity between theinput devices102 and theoutput devices110. As explained above, the network can be wired or wireless. For example, the network can use a wireless data transmission method, such as IrDA, to communicate between theinput devices102 and theoutput devices108. IrDA is a standard defined by the IrDA consortium (Infrared Data Association) for both the input and output devices and the protocols they use to communicate with each other. IrDA specifies a way to wirelessly transfer data via infrared radiation using infrared light emitting diodes (IR-LED's). Moreover, a wireless data transmission method, such as radio frequency (RF), can be used for the network. An RF network uses the electromagnetic spectrum associated with radio wave propagation.
• The input and output devices can be position at fixed or portable locations within the home. For example, receiver module108(a) and receiver module108(b) can be located in different areas of the home while communicating withtransmitter module104. Thetransmitter module104 may service a few or several receiver modules108(a)-(n).
• FIG. 1A is a block diagram of an embodiment of the communication system that has a settop box140 connected to aloudspeaker142 using a wired, wireless, or powerline network. The settop box140 is configured to combine an audio signal and a control signal. The combined signal is transmitted via thenetwork144 to theloudspeaker142.
• Theloudspeaker142 is coupled to anamplifier146. Theamplifier146 may be configured to amplify and/or manipulate the audio signal based on the control signal. The amplifier can thus be further coupled to or incorporate an equalizer (not shown). The equalizer is configured to manipulate the received audio signal prior to theloudspeaker142 broadcasting the audio signal.
• The communication system can further include aloudspeaker controller150. Theloudspeaker controller150 connects to thenetwork144 and is configured to manipulate the equalizer of one ormore loudspeakers142. For example, theloudspeaker controller150 can wirelessly connect to theloudspeaker142 via thenetwork144. Alternatively, theloudspeaker controller150 can connect via awired network144 to theloudspeaker142. The wired network can be, for example, an Ethernet LAN or a powerline network.
• Theloudspeaker controller150 can connect to theloudspeaker142 via a different network than thenetwork144 utilized by the settop box140. For example, the settop box140 can connect to theloudspeaker142 via the powerline network and theloudspeaker controller150 connects to theloudspeaker142 via a wireless network. The settings of the equalizer can be stored in theamplifier146.
• As another example, theloudspeaker controller150 may connect with theloudspeaker142 via the Internet or other wide-area network (WAN). In this example, theloudspeaker142 can include web server software configured to allow the equalizer to receive its settings from theloudspeaker controller150 via the Internet.
• Theloudspeaker142 can further be configured to sense the broadcast signal levels from other loudspeakers. The processing of the sensed signal level may be performed internal to theloudspeaker142. The sensed signal level is then utilized by the sensing loudspeaker and the other loudspeakers to dynamically adjust the equalizer and signal balance. Alternatively, the sensed signal level is transmitted to theloudspeaker controller150, host, or other remote processor via the network where adjustments are calculated and transmitted to the loudspeakers.
• FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a first embodiment of thetransmitter module104 fromFIG. 1. Thetransmitter module104 is configured to receive, format, and transmit a combined signal via thepowerline106. Thetransmitter module104 includes receptacles202(a)-(c), anaudio input connector204, asignal processing module216, a volume sensor analog to digital converter (A/D)206 which is coupled to thesignal processing module216, and apowerline module222. Each of these components is described in detail below.
• Theaudio input connector204 includes a plurality of connector designs for connecting withdifferent input devices102. For example, the audio input connectors can includeRCA connector module208, Universal Serial Bus (USB)module212, miniplug, S/PDIF module210, and SACD. Theaudio input connector204 can further include any combination of digital and analog receptacles202(a)-(c). For example, theRCA connector module208 can be used to connect an analog stereo receiver to thetransmitter module104. For this connection, theaudio input connector204 is coupled to an analog receptacle202(a) to receive the analog audio signal.
• Coupled to the analog connector202(a) is the volume sensor A/D206. The volume sensor A/D206 is configured to sense the input power level of the analog audio signal into the analog receptacle202(a) and digitize the input power level. The volume sensor A/D206 senses a RMS value of the audio signal. Depending on the value, the volume sensor A/D206 changes the control signal. The sensitivity between changing the control signal in response to changes in the RMS value can vary. The control signal can be in an a variety of future developed formats, such as the well known I²C format. As explained below, the control signal is transmitted along with the audio signal via thepowerline106 as a combined signal.
• TheRCA connector module208 can include an analog to digital converter (A/D). The A/D forms a digital signal from the inputted analog audio signal for its processing by theaudio input connector204.
• The S/PDIF module210 is configured to receive digital signals from theinput devices102 via the receptacle202(b).
• TheUSB connector module212 is configured to connect thetransmitter module104 with a personal computer to receive a digital audio signal and an associated digital control signal. Since the control signal is in digital form, the volume sensor A/D206 does not sense the control signal for theUSB connector module212 or the S/PDIF connector module210. An embodiment of theUSB connector module212 is a Stereo USB Audio Interface, part number TAS1020, which is manufactured by Texas Instruments Incorporated. Texas Instruments Incorporated is located at 12500 TI Boulevard in Dallas, Tex. 75243-4136.
• Theaudio input connector204 further includes aninput selector module214. Theaudio input connector204 is coupled to theRCA connector module208, the S/PDIF module210, and theUSB connector module212. Theinput selector module214 is configured to select theinput device102 that is to have its audio signal transmitted by thetransmitter module104. The selectedinput source102 can dynamically change from time to time.
• Theinput selector module214 receives digital signals, audio and control, from the selectedinput devices102. Various bus designs can be used to couple theinput selector module214 to the input connectors to receive the digital signals. Exemplary bus designs that are used in the audio field include, for example, inter IC sound (I²S).
• Connected to theaudio input connector204 is thesignal processing module216. The signal-processing module216 is configured to combine the digital signal, audio and control, from the inputselect module214 with an analog control signal from the volume sensor A/D206. Forinput sources102 that provide a digital audio signal and digital control signal, the analog signal is not used. The control signal and the audio signal for the selectedinput device102 forms the combined signal.
• Thesignal processing module216 includes aprocessor218 coupled to the volume sensor A/ID206 for processing analog control signals. Theprocessor218 can be an 8-bit processor. Theprocessor218 is configured to control the volume sensor A/D206. The signal-processing module216 may further include a programmable logic device (PLD)220. ThePLD220 is configured to combine the control signal with its associated audio signal. For example, thePLD220 combines the audio signal from theaudio input connector204 with its associated control signal. Theprocessor218 can assist in the combining of the audio signal with the control signal. For analog input sources, the digital version of the control signal is provided by theprocessor218 using information obtained from the volume sensor A/D206. ThePLD220 is further configured to format the combined signal to be readable by thepowerline module222.
• Thesignal processing module216 may also include adestination source switch221. Thedestination source switch221 is configured to select a receiver108(a)-(n) for receiving the combined signal. For example inFIG. 1, depending on the position of thedestination source switch221, any of the receivers108(a)-(n) could receive the combined signal. Alternatively, more than one receiver108(a)-(n) can receive the same combined signal. In one embodiment, thesignal processing module216 includes a digital signal processor (DSP) (not shown). The DSP is configured to process and encode the control signal and the audio signal. For example, the address of the destination receiver module108(a)-(n) can be encoded by the DSP.
• Coupled to thesignal processing module216 is thepowerline module222. Thepowerline module222 is configured to modulate and transmit the combined signal via thepowerline106. Thepowerline module222 includes apowerline chipset224, apowerline magnetics module226, and an A/C plug228.
• The combined signal is received by thepowerline chipset224 from thesignal processing module216. Thepowerline chipset224 is configured to transform the combined signal into symbols. The symbols are then arranged into data packets for their transmission on the PHY via thepowerline106. The PHY can utilize one or more carrier frequencies. The detail components which perform the conversion of the combined signal for its transmission via thepowerline106 are illustrated in, and will be explained with reference to,FIG. 5.
• Thepowerline magnetics module226 is coupled to thepowerline chipset224. Thepowerline magnetics module226 is configured to provide isolation between the low voltage powerline chip set224 and thehigh voltage powerline106. Thepowerline magnetics module226 is further coupled to an alternating current (AC)plug228. TheAC plug228 is configured to electrically connect thetransmitter module104 with the input power receptacle105 (seeFIG. 1) for transmission of the packets.
• FIG. 3 is a perspective view of thetransmitter module104 shown inFIG. 2. Thetransmitter module104 includeshousing240 and aplug228. The housing includes a plurality of receptacles202(a), (b), (c) each accessible for attaching a connector frominput devices102 to receive the audio signal. Thehousing240 may include acontrol signal receptacle244. In this embodiment, thecontrol signal receptacle244 receives a separate analog or digital control signal from an input device. Alternatively, and as described with reference toFIG. 2 above, a control signal is generated via the analog signal.
• FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the transmitter module fromFIG. 1. In contrast to the first embodiment shown inFIG. 3, the embodiment ofFIG. 4 is specifically designed for receiving signals from analog input devices. Thus,FIG. 4 includes only theRCA connector module208 fromFIG. 3 for receiving input signals.
• FIG. 5 is a block diagram of thepowerline chipset224, fromFIG. 2, which performs the conversion of the combined signal for its transmission via thepowerline106. The detail components of thepowerline chipset224 are described below.
• Thepowerline chipset224 receives the combined signal from the signal-processing module216 via ahost interface402. Theencryption module404 receives the combined signal from thehost interface402. Theencryption module404 is configured to encrypt the combined signal so that it is unreadable except by authorized users, for example, a receiver108(a)-(n). Coupled to theencryption module404 is an encodemodule406. The encodemodule406 is configured to encode the combined signal. Exemplary encoding techniques include Reed-Solomon encoding.
• A media access control (MAC)protocol410 controls the sharing of aPHY layer412 amongmultiple transmitters104 and receivers108(a)-(n). In conjunction with theMAC protocol410, thePHY layer412 specifies the modulation, coding, and basic packet formats which are used to transmit along thepowerline106. An exemplary transmission technique used by thepowerline communication system100 is orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM).
• OFDM divides the encoded signal into multiple parallel signals, each of which has a relatively low bit rate. Each encoded signal is provided to themapper module408. Themapper module408 converts the bits to symbols prior to their modulation on thePHY layer412. For example, the bit streams can form OFDM symbols. Alternatively, QAM symbols can be used.
• TheMAC protocol410 arranges each series of symbols to form a payload for transmission in a data packet. Each payload can be associated with a frame control header. The frame control header includesMAC protocol410 management information. For example, the packet's length and response status can be included in the frame control header. The data packet can further include a start-of-frame delimiter and an end-of-frame delimiter in addition to the payload and frame control header. For unicast transmissions to more than one receiver108(a)-(n), the destination receiver108(a)-(n) can respond by transmitting a response delimiter indicating the status of its reception. As mentioned above, the delimiters can be intended for more than one of the receiver modules108(a)-(n). However, the payload is intended for only the destination receiver module108(a)-(n).
• Each data packet is then modulated one of a series of closely spaced carriers, or subcarriers of thePHY layer412, using, for example, OFDM. Many different types of modulation can be used to transmit the symbols on the individual carriers. Exemplary modulation techniques include differential quadrature phase shift keying (DQPSK) modulation and quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM), both well known in the art. DQPSK modulation encodes the data as the difference in phase between the present and previous symbol in time on the same subcarrier.
• The payload is carried on subcarriers that have been previously agreed upon by thetransmitter module104 and destination receiver module108(a)-(n) during a channel adaptation procedure. The subcarriers are selected based on the transfer function between thetransmitter module104 and the receiver module108(a)-(n). For example, thetransmitter module104 could select a first set of subcarriers of thePHY layer412 for transmission between itself and the receiver module108(a). Thereceiver module104 could then select a different set of subcarriers of thePHY layer412 for transmission between itself and receiver module (b) based on the transfer functions between itself and receiver modules108(a),108(b).
• A digital toanalog module414 converts the modulated signal to an analog form. The outgoing signal is then upconverted to anintermediate frequency416 prior to its transmission.
• FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a first embodiment of the receiver module fromFIG. 1, which includes anamplifier514. Theamplifier514 can be a digital amplifier. Digital amplifiers internally process the audio signal in the digital domain. Thereceiver module108 is configured to receive and unformat a combined signal received via thepowerline106. Thereceiver module108 is further configured to manipulate and amplify the audio signal and then broadcast the amplified signal.
• Thereceiver module108 includes apowerline module507, asignal processing module508, and anamplifier module514. Thepowerline module507 is similar to thepowerline module222 described with reference toFIG. 2 except that it operates in a reverse configuration. Thepowerline module507 is configured to receive and demodulate the combined signal via thepowerline106. Thepowerline module507 includes apowerline chipset506, apowerline magnetics module509, and an A/C plug510.
• The alternating current (AC) plug510 is configured to electrically connect thereceiver module108 with an input power receptacle107(a)-(c) (seeFIG. 1) to receive the packets. TheAC plug228 is further coupled to thepowerline magnetics module509. Thepowerline magnetics module509 is configured to provide isolation between the low voltage powerline chip set506 and thehigh voltage powerline106. Thepowerline magnetics module509 is coupled to thepowerline chipset506.
• The symbols in the data packets are received by thepowerline chipset506. After their transmission on the PHY via thepowerline106, the symbols are removed from the data packets. Thepowerline chipset506 is configured to transform the symbols into a combined signal. The detail components which perform the conversion of the data packets received via thepowerline106 are illustrated in, and will be explained with reference to,FIG. 8.
• Thesignal processing module508 is similar to thesignal processing module216 described with reference toFIG. 2 except that it receives the combined signal and extracts the audio signal from the control signal. Thesignal processing module508 includes aprocessor218. Theprocessor218 is coupled to alocal volume control512. Thelocal volume control512 is configured to allow a user to change the volume level of the audio signal broadcast by the loudspeaker. The signal-processing module508 further includes a programmable logic device (PLD)513. ThePLD513 is configured to extract or separate the control signal from its associated audio signal. Theprocessor218 can assist in separating the audio signal from the control signal. The audio signal can be in an I²S format while the control signal can be in an I²C format. ThePLD513 provides the signals to theamplifier514.
• Coupled to the signal-processing module508 is theamplifier514. Theamplifier514 receives the extracted audio signal and control signal from the signal-processing module508. Theamplifier514 is configured to manipulate and amplify the audio signal and then broadcast the amplified signal. The amplifier includes a digital signal processor (DSP)module516, anamplifier module520, a power stage module522(a)-(b), and outputs524,526.
• TheDSP module516 is configured to manipulate the received audio signal based on the control signal associated with the received audio signal. TheDSP module516 can include a graphical user interface (GUI) for a user to control theDSP module516. APLD518 can be coupled to theDSP module516 to provide control logic. This logic can include processing additional channels, for examples subwoofer and center channels, for theamplifier514. For example, thePLD518 can create a delay in sending a center channel signal to theDSP module516. An embodiment of theDSP module516 is a Stereo Audio Digital Equalizer, part number TAS3001, which is manufactured by Texas Instruments Incorporated. Texas Instruments Incorporated is located at 12500 TI Boulevard in Dallas, Tex. 5243-4136.
• Theamplifier module520 is coupled to theDSP module516 and receives the manipulated I²S audio signal. Theamplifier module520 converts the I²S audio signal to a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal. An embodiment of theamplifier module520 is a Digital Audio PWM Processor, part number TAS5010, which is manufactured by Texas Instruments Incorporated. The PWM signal is amplified by the power stages522(a)-(b). An embodiment of the power stages522 is a Digital Amplifier Power Stage, part number TAS5110, which is manufactured by Texas Instruments Incorporated. The amplified signal is broadcast viaoutputs524,526.
• FIG. 7 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of thereceiver module108 fromFIG. 1. The second embodiment is similar to the first embodiment except that the signal-processing module602 does not provide an I²C control signal. Moreover, the embodiment ofFIG. 7 provides the I²S signal to anoutput module604 and not to an amplifier. Theoutput module604 converts the I²S signal to an analog form for broadcast viaoutputs524,526.
• FIG. 8 is a block diagram of theRx powerline chipset506 fromFIG. 6. TheRx powerline chipset506 operates similar to the Tx powerline chipset described inFIG. 5 except in a reverse configuration. TheRx powerline chipset506 performs the conversion of the combined signal received via thepowerline106. The detail components of theRx powerline chipset506 are described below.
• The incoming signal is downconverted from anintermediate frequency802 to a baseband signal. An analog todigital module804 converts the baseband signal to a digital form. The received data packet is demodulated from one of a series of closely spaced carriers, or subcarriers of thePHY layer806. Many different types of modulation can be used to transmit the symbols on the individual carriers. Exemplary modulation techniques include differential quadrature phase shift keying (DQPSK) modulation and quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM), both well known in the art. DQPSK modulation encodes the data as the difference in phase between the present and previous symbol in time on the same subcarrier.
• A media access control (MAC)protocol808 controls the sharing of thePHY layer806 amongmultiple transmitters104 and receivers108(a)-(n). In conjunction with theMAC protocol808, thePHY layer806 identifies the modulation, coding, and basic packet formats which were used to transmit along thepowerline106.
• TheMAC protocol808 removes the symbols from the received data packet. Each data packet can be associated with a frame control header. The frame control header includesMAC protocol808 management information. For example, the packet's length and response status can be included in the frame control header. The data packet can further include a start-of-frame delimiter and an end-of-frame delimiter in addition to the payload and frame control header. For unicast broadcast to more than one receiver108(a)-(n), the destination receiver108(a)-(n) can respond by transmitting a response delimiter indicating the status of its reception. As mentioned above, the delimiters can be intended for more than one of the receiver modules108(a)-(n). However, the payload is intended for only the destination receiver module108(a)-(n).
• The symbols are provided to thedemapper810. Thedemapper module810 converts the demodulated symbols to bits. The bits are provided to adecode module812. Thedecode module812 is configured to decode the bits into a combined signal. Exemplary encoding techniques include Reed-Solomon encoding. Coupled to thedencode module812 is adecryption module814. Thedecryption module814 receives the combined signal from thedecode module812. Thedecryption module814 is configured to decrypt the combined signal so that it is readable by the authorized user, for example, the receiver108 (a). once decrypted, thepowerline chipset506 provides the combined signal to the signal-processing module508.
• FIG. 9 is a flowchart of an exemplary process that is performed by the transmitter module to transmit a Tx signal and a Tx control signal into thepowerline106 when the input is an analog audio signal. The process begins at astate900 where the signal-processing module216 receives an audio signal from theaudio input connector204. The process then moves to astate902 where the analog audio signal is processes through, for example, low pass filtering or other additional signal processing to produce an analog volume signal level. The process moves to astate904 where the volume sensor A/D206 periodically samples the sensed volume and converts the sensed volume into a digital form. Next, at astate906, the signal-processing module216 receives the destination address of the receiver108(a)-(n) from thedestination source switch221. Flow proceeds to astate908 where thesignal processing module216 combines the audio and control signal into a combined signal. At a state912, thepowerline module222 transmits the combined signal via thepowerline106 to the destination receiver (a)-(n).
• FIG. 10 is a flowchart of an exemplary process that is performed by a receiver module to receive an Rx signal and an Rx control signal from the transmitter module via thepowerline106. The process begins at a state1000 where the combined signal is received by a destination receiver module via the powerline. The process moves to astate1002 where the destination receiver module extracts its destination address from the combined signal. Flow moves to astate1006 where the destination receiver extracts volume and audio signals from the combined signal. Next, at astate1008, the receiver module adjusts the volume level of the audio signal based on the volume signal. Flow proceeds to astate1010 where the receiver module provides the adjusted audio signal to the loudspeaker.
• FIGS. 11-14 illustrate embodiments of the communication system that are configured to utilize an infrared (IR) transmission and reception technique to communicate within the network. However, the communication system is not so limited. Other exemplary transmission and reception techniques that are within the scope of the invention comprise wireless, powerline, and wired techniques. Thus, the following description equally applies to communication systems that use techniques besides IR as well as communication systems that use a combination of techniques within the network.
• FIG. 11 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a communication system showing an infrared (IR)transmitter1101 and aloudspeaker1115 connected using an IR network, TheIR transmitter1101 is configured to combine anaudio signal1103 and acontrol signal1105. Alternatively, thecontrol signal1105 is sensed via theaudio signal1103. TheIR transmitter1101 can include one ormore diodes1107. Thediode1107 is configured to transmit the combined signal in the infrared spectrum of electromagnetic radiation. In one embodiment, the combined signal is transmitted via the IR network to theloudspeaker1115.
• Theloudspeaker1115 can be coupled to ahousing1200. The housing includes one ormore receiver components1140, anIR detector1111, and apower supply1113. Thereceiver components1140 are configured to receive the combined signal that is transmitted by theIR transmitter1101. Thereceiver components1140 provide the received combined signal to theloudspeaker1115. As illustrated inFIG. 11, thehousing1200 includes oneIR detector1111. However, the housing can includeadditional IR detectors1111. TheIR detector1111 is configured to receive the transmitted combined signal from theIR transmitter1101. In another embodiment, thereceiver components1140 and theIR detector1111 are incorporated within theloudspeaker1115. In such a configuration, theIR detector1111 can be incorporated into the external surface of theloudspeaker1115. In still another embodiment, theIR detector1111 is located external to the loudspeaker and coupled through theloudspeaker1115 to internal receiver components.
• In one embodiment, theIR transmitter1101 is coupled to a headphone1117 via the IR network. In this configuration, theIR transmitter1101 transmits the combined signal via thediode1107 to the headphone1117. The transmitter is configured with aswitch1122 to create an address to enable operation of the speakers or headphones. For example, when theswitch1122 is set to headphones, only the headphones will play. When theswitch1122 is set to speakers, only the speakers receiving the audio signal will play. The switching can be accomplished by many alternative means such as by creating an address that will be transmitted along with the audio signal. The headphone1117 can includereceiver components1119, one ormore detectors1120, and one ormore loudspeakers1121. Thedetector1120 is configured to receive the combined signal from theIR transmitter1101. Thedetector1120 further provides the combined signal to thereceiver components1119. In one embodiment, a housing for thereceiver components1119 is shaped like a pyramid withdetectors1120 located on each of its four sides. In one embodiment, thereceiver components1119 are combined with theloudspeaker1121 of the headphone1117. As will be recognized by one skilled in the art, various combinations of these components can be selected while staying within the scope of the invention.
• As explained above with reference toFIG. 1, the IR network ofFIG. 11 can provide the combined signal to theloudspeaker1115 and/or the headphone1117 for a listener's enjoyment. In one embodiment, the receiver components of thesystem1109 manipulates the audio signal portion of the combined signal based on the associated control signal prior to the audio signal's broadcast by theloudspeaker1115. Similarly, thereceiver components1119 of the headphone1117 can manipulate the audio signal portion of the combined signal based on the associated control signal prior to the audio signal's broadcast via theloudspeaker1121 to the user.
• FIG. 11A is a block diagram ofreceiver components1140 which can be located in a surround or speaker enclosure. Thereceiver components1140 can comprise anIR receiver1109, aDSP module516 for multiple channels, anamplifier module520, andpower stage modules522 for one or more surround or speaker channels. TheIR receiver1109 receives the transmitted audio signal from theIR detector1111. TheDSP module516 processes the audio signal using any control information that was transmitted with the audio signal. TheDSP module516 can further enhance the signal using signal processing techniques known in the art. Theamplifier module520 can be configured as a pulse width modulation (PWM) converter/amplifier driven directly from a digital input from the DAP/DSP. Thepower stage modules522 receive the audio power signal from theamplifier module520 and provides the audio signal to theaudio output lines1205,1207. The audio output lines provide the manipulated audio signal to one or more surround or speaker enclosures. The surround or speaker enclosure and associatedreceiver components1140 can be configured to operate in mono or stereo depending on the system requirements.
• FIG. 11B is a diagram showing multiple embodiments of a housing orspeaker1150 and associatedreceiver components1140 fromFIG. 11A. One embodiment of the speaker is a housing for a surround speaker. However, as illustrated in FIGS.11B(1)-(5), the invention is not so limited. In the embodiment illustrated by FIG.11B(1), thereceiver components1140 are mounted inside aspeaker enclosure1150. This enclosure can be any speaker. In the embodiment illustrated by FIG.11B(2), the receiver components are mounted inside astereo speaker1150, all in one housing. One or more of thereceiver components1140 are mounted inside the enclosure. The receiver components may include signal processing techniques to enhance the audio signal to give the listener the impression of a wider separation of sound.
• In the embodiment illustrated by FIG.11B(3), thereceiver components1140 are mounted in various possible locations within a speaker stand. This embodiment integrates the stand and the receiver components. A user can advantageously select any standard speaker to receive the audio signal from receiver speaker outputs. The stand can be configured to operate in a mono or stereo mode. In the embodiment illustrated by FIG.11B(4), the housing for the receiver is incorporated in a speaker wall mount. In this embodiment, the receiver housing, mount, and receiver components are integrated. As explained above with FIG.11B(3), any standard speaker receives the audio signal from the receiver speaker outputs and is further mounted on the bracket. In the embodiment illustrated by FIG.11B(5), the housing for the receiver components is wall mounted, floor mounted or mounted on a speaker. As explained above with FIG.11B(3), any standard speaker receives the audio signal from the receiver speaker outputs.
• The embodiments of FIG.11B(1) and FIG.11B(2) form complete speaker systems where the receiver components are integral with the speaker. The embodiments of FIGS.11B(3),11B(4) and11B(5) are adapter systems which allow the user to transform any speaker system into a wireless system. This advantageously allows the user to incorporate the receiver components disclosed herein with a home entertainment system's pre-existing loudspeakers. Moreover, should the user decide to purchase new loudspeakers, the user may select from a myriad of speaker manufacturers and speaker designs for attachment to the receiver components.
• Thereceiver components1140 illustrated in FIGS.11B(1) and11B(2) can be configured to operate in a stereo or mono mode. In a preferred embodiment, thereceiver components1140 comprise thereceiver module1109,PWM amplifier520,power stage modules522, and power supply. Thereceiver components1140 may or may not includeDSP516 and signal processing depending on the application.
• The transmitter which transmits the audio signal to the loudspeakers shown inFIG. 11B can be mounted inside another speaker. For example, the transmitting speaker can be a center channel or other speaker. This is most likely to be a center channel for IR networks but alternatively, the subwoofer loudspeaker, left loudspeaker, right loudspeaker, effects loudspeaker, surround/satellite loudspeaker and the like is used instead of thecenter channel speaker1140. In an embodiment where theIR transmitter1101 is located in a center loudspeaker, theIR transmitter1101 transmits the signal to the surround or satellite loudspeakers or subwoofer. The transmitter may be combined with one or more digital amplifiers which will be described with reference toFIG. 11C.
• FIG. 11C is a block diagram ofreceiver components1142 for a center channel loudspeaker. Thereceiver components1142 comprise aDSP module516 for multiple channels, a PWM converter/amplifier module520, apower stage module522 for the center channel, and anIR transmitter1101. The multiple channels can be derived from various audio channel configurations. These channel configurations include, for example, stereo, 2.1, 3.1, 5.1, and 7.1 and the like. The DSP can process the signal into various channel configurations, such as Dolby Digital, DTS, SRS or alike. The DSP may further process control information such as equalizer information, volume or other signal processing information.
• In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 11C, thereceiver components1142 further comprise power stage modules524(b)-(n) for other audio channels in addition to the amplifier for the center channel. In some embodiments, for example, thereceiver components1142 comprise power stage modules for the subwoofer loudspeaker, left loudspeaker, right loudspeaker, effects loudspeaker, surround/satellite loudspeaker and the like.
• In operation, thereceiver components1142 receive an input signal from theinput device102. The input signal can be in the form of a digital or analog signal. The input signal(s) is provided to thereceiver components1142 viaconnector interface204. TheDSP module516 processes the input signal for one or more of the channels. As shown in the embodiment ofFIGURE 11C, theDSP module516 may process the input signals for all the channels, some of the channels or none of the channels.
• A series of jumpers or switches1122 allows the input signals for the speakers to be either processed by theDSP module516, sent directly to PWM or transmitted to the speakers by theIR transmitter1101. TheIR transmitter1101 is configured to transmit the combined signal to one or more speakers1144(a)-(b). This other speaker can be a surround speaker or other speaker. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 11C, theIR transmitter1101 in the center channel speaker encodes and transmits the combined signal to the surround or satellite speakers via an infrared network. Alternatively, theIR transmitter1101 in the center channel speaker transmits the combined signal via powerline, RF, wireless, or a wired network to the surround or satellite speakers.
• Theamplifier module520 is coupled to theDSP module516 and receives the audio signal. Theamplifier module520 converts the audio signal to a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal. The PWM signal is amplified by thepower stage522. The amplified signal is broadcast via outputs524(a)-(n).
• FIG. 12 is a perspective view of ahousing1200 for thereceiver components1140 described inFIG. 11A. As shown inFIG. 12, thehousing1200 can include two detectors1111(a), (b) and apower supply1113 as described with reference toFIG. 11. Detectors can be located on the same or different surfaces of theIR receiver1109. For example, the embodiment shown inFIG. 12 further includesdetector1201 on a different surface of thehousing1200. By locating one ormore detectors1111,1201 on different surfaces of thehousing1200, the IR receiver can receive the transmitted combined signal from theIR transmitter1101 from more than one direction. Thehousing1200 can further includeaudio output lines1205,1207. The audio output lines provide the manipulated audio signal to one or more loudspeakers1115 (seeFIG. 11). In one embodiment, thehousing1200 includes a female ormale fastener1203 for mounting thehousing1200 to a speaker bracket. Thehousing1200 can further include mountingholes1209. The mountingholes1209 allow thehousing1200 to be mounted inside or outside of theloudspeaker1115.
• FIG. 13 is a block diagram of one embodiment of theIR transmitter1101 shown inFIG. 11. TheIR transmitter1101 can be configured to receive, format, and transmit a combined signal via the IR network. TheIR transmitter1101 can comprise anaudio input connector204, asignal processing module1301, a volume sensor analog-to-digital converter (A/D)206, and an IR encoder/transmitter module1305. Theaudio input connector204 is the same as described with reference toFIG. 2 except that the audio input connector can additionally or alternatively comprise a speaker-level input connector1302. The speaker-level input connector1302 allows theIR transmitter1101 to receive speaker level analog signals and line level analog signals. Thevolume sensor206 is the same as described with reference toFIG. 2. The volume sensor analog-to-digital converter (A/D)206 can be coupled to thesignal processing module1301. TheIR encoder1305 is further connected to transmitting diodes1107(a)-(n).
• Thesignal processing module1301 can include an 8-bit processor218, adigital signal processor1303, and adestination source switch221. The 8-bit processor218 and thedestination source switch221 are the same as described with reference toFIG. 2. Thedigital signal processor1303 can be configured to decode algorithms, for example, DTS, Dolby, Dolby Digital, and perform pre-processing before transmission by theIR transmitter1101. Thesignal processing module1301 provides the control signal and the audio signal to theIR encoder1305. TheIR encoder1305 combines the audio signal and the control signal for its transmission via, for example, thediode1107. In one embodiment, the DSP is configured to process and encode the control signal and the audio signal. For example, the address of the destination receiver module can be encoded by the DSP. In this embodiment, thedestination source switch221 is not utilized.
• FIG. 14 is a block diagram of audio and control signal paths through an embodiment of thereceiver components1140 fromFIG. 11. For ease of explanation, the following describes theIR receiver components1140. However, the following description also applies to the headphone embodiment of theIR receiver1119. Thereceiver components1140 are configured to receive and decode the combined signal received via the IR network. Thereceiver components1140 can be further configured to manipulate and amplify the audio signal and then broadcast the amplified signal. One embodiment of thereceiver components1140 includes optical detector1111(a)-(n),IR receiver1109, and anamplifier module514.
• Thedetector1111 is configured to receive the combined signal transmitted by the IR transmitter1101 (seeFIG. 11). Thedetector1111 provides the combined signal to theIR receiver1109. As shown inFIG. 14, the combined signal can be in an I²S format. Other formats for transmitting the combined signal are within the scope of the invention. TheIR receiver1109 receives the combined signal via thedetector1111. The decoder/receiver1109 is configured to decode and extract the audio signal from the control signal. In embodiments where an address corresponding to a destination receiver is transmitted, the extracted signals are only provided to theamplifier module514 of the destination receiver. In one embodiment, the 8-bit processor218 is configured to receive the address and determine whether its associated received corresponds to the address. If the address does not correspond, the receiver will enter a standby mode and not amplify the signal. Thus, depending on whether the address corresponds to the receiver receiving the signal, that receiver can be enabled and amplify the signal, or disabled and not amplify the signal. In one embodiment, thereceiver components1140 time out in response to not receiving their address for a period of time and power down to a standby mode. If the transmitted address changes and corresponds to thereceiver components1140 in standby mode, the receiver will be enabled, power up, and play.
• Theamplifier514 receives the extracted audio signal and control signal from theIR receiver1109. Theamplifier514 is configured to manipulate and amplify the audio signal and then broadcast the amplified signal. Theamplifier514 can include, for example, a digitalsignal processor module516, anamplifier module520, a power stage module522(a)-(b), and outputs524,526. The components of theamplifier514 are the same as described above with reference toFIG. 5.
• FIG. 15 is a block diagram of areceiver housing1500 which advantageously comprises an AC/DC power supply1504 collocated with the receiver (Rx)components108 fromFIG. 1. Thehousing1500 comprises apower switch1502, theRx components108, anaddress switch221, the AC/DC power supply1504, aplug228,audio output jacks1205 and1207, and anamplifier146. Thehousing1500 can further comprise a light emitting diode (LED)power indicator1506 and anLED Rx indicator1508.
• TheRx components108 may, as described above, receive a combined audio and control signal via digital radio frequency, powerline, Ethernet, or other wired or wireless means. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 15, theRx components108 are configured for receiving the combined signal via a powerline network. In these embodiments, the Rx components extract the control signal from the combined signal and manipulate the audio signal at least partially based upon the control signal. For this embodiment, a transmitter (not shown inFIG. 15) that is coupled to the powerline originates the audio signal.
• Theplug228 couples thehousing1500 to the powerline or electrical system of the home or building to receive the combined signal. Theplug228 provides AC electrical power to thehousing1500, and may also provide the above described combined audio signal in powerline communication embodiments.
• In alternative embodiments, theRx components108 are configured for receiving the combined signal via digital RE, Ethernet or other wired or wireless means. In such embodiments, thehousing1500 would further incorporate an antenna as known in the art or other such reception means for receiving the combined signal. For embodiments configured for use with an Ethernet network, thehousing1500 can comprise a serial connector, for example an RJ-45 port or the like, for connecting with the Ethernet network. In embodiments where the combined signal was received via means other than powerline transmission, theplug228 still provides electrical power to thehousing1500.
• The AC/DC power supply1504 receives power from the electrical system in the home via theplug228. The AC/DC power supply1504 converts the alternating current into a direct current. The AC/DC power supply1504 provides the direct current to the components of thehousing1500 as required. For example, the AC/DC power supply1504 provides the direct current to theamplifier146.
• Thepower switch1502 allows a user to turn thehousing1500 off or on as desired. In embodiments of thehousing1500 which do not comprise thepower switch1502, the housing can automatically enter a standby state when not in use. While in a standby state, thehousing1500 goes online, or powers up, once a combined signal directed to the housing is received viaplug228 when the housing is configured for use in a powerline network. If configured for use in a radio frequency network, thehousing1500 can enter the online state upon receiving the combined signal over the airwaves.
• Theaddress switch221 is configured to select from one or more channels or addresses for thereceiver housing1500. In this way, the user can configured thehousing1500 to receive a combined signal which corresponds to the user's selected channel. In addition, the user can utilize theaddress switch221 to select which of one or more loudspeakers is to receive the manipulated audio signal from thehousing1500.
• Theamplifier146 may be configured to amplify and/or manipulate the audio signal based on the control signal. Theamplifier146 amplifies the received signal prior to transmission to the one or more loudspeakers. The amplifier can thus be further coupled to, or incorporate, an equalizer (not shown). The equalizer is configured to manipulate the received audio signal prior to the output device broadcasting the audio signal.
• The amplified output signal is transmitted to an output device viaaudio output jacks1205 and1207. The output device is configured to change the audio signal into sounds loud enough to be heard at a selected distance. Output devices can include, for example, stereo loudspeakers, home theater loudspeakers, and headphones. Theaudio output jacks1205 and1207 can be any jack commonly used in digital or analog signal connections or wires. Typically, theoutput jack1205,1207 can be stereo (right/left), mono, summed or digital signal. For example, theaudio output1205 could connect thehousing1500 with a loudspeaker that receives a left channel signal. In this embodiment, theaudio output jack1207 would provide a right channel audio signal to a second loudspeaker. Together, theaudio output jacks1205,1207 would be providing a stereo signal.
• TheLED power indicator1506 is configured to emit light when thehousing1500 is in an ON state. TheLED power indicator1506 does not emit light when thehousing1500 is in an OFF state.
• TheLED Rx indicator1508 is configured to emit light when thehousing1500 is receiving a combined signal via the powerline. When thehousing1500 is not receiving the signal, the LED Rx indicator does not emit light.
• During operation, theRx components108 of thehousing1500 receive a combined signal via, for example, a powerline network. The combined signal can be arranged in data packets for transmission via powerline. TheRx components108 receive the data packets from the powerline and extract the audio signal and the control signal included therein. Components which may be used to perform the extraction of the control and audio signals are illustrated in, and were explained with reference to,FIG. 8.
• TheRx components108 utilizes the control signal to manipulate the audio signal. This manipulation can include, for example, detection of audio signal peaking and clipping. TheRx components108 may be configured to automatically adjust the audio signals level to adjust for detection of peeking or clipping. A process for receiving and extracting the audio signal and the control signal from the received combined signal, that can be performed by the Rx components ofFIG. 15, is shown in, and was described with reference to,FIG. 10.
• FIG. 16 is a block diagram of atransmitter housing1600 which advantageously comprises an AC/DC power supply1504 collocated with the transmitter (Tx) components fromFIG. 1. Thehousing1600 comprises apower switch1502, theTx components104, anaddress switch221, aplug228, an AC/DC power supply1504, andaudio inputs202. Thehousing1600 can further comprise anLED power indicator1506 and anLED Tx indicator1602.
• TheTx components104 are configured to receive, format, and transmit a combined signal via the powerline or other transmission medium. For example, the transmission medium could be a radio frequency. TheTx components104 receive the audio signal, and any control signals, from an input device via the input jacks202. As mentioned above, an exemplary control signal is a desired volume level. TheTx components104 combine, format, and transmit the combined signal to a receiver (not shown inFIG. 16) that is coupled to the powerline.
• Theplug228 couples thehousing1600 to the powerline or electrical system of the home or building. Thehousing1600, viaplug228, transmits the combined signal. Theplug228 provides, in addition to a connection with powerline network, electrical power to thehousing1600.
• In alternative embodiments, theTx components104 are configured for transmitting the combined signal via digital RF, Ethernet or other wired or wireless means. In such embodiments, thehousing1600 would further incorporate an antenna as known in the art or other such transmission means for transmitting the combined signal. For embodiments configured for use with an Ethernet network, thehousing1600 can comprise a serial connector, for example an RJ-45 port or the like, for connecting with the Ethernet network. In embodiments where the audio signal is transmitted via means other than powerline transmission, theplug228 still provides electrical power to thehousing1600.
• The AC/DC power supply1504 receives power from the electrical system in the home via theplug228. The AC/DC power supply1504 converts the alternating current into a direct current. The AC/DC power supply1504 provides the direct current to the components of thehousing1600 as required.
• Thepower switch1502 is coupled to theplug228 and allows a user to turn thehousing1600 off or on as desired. In embodiments of thehousing1600 which do not comprise thepower switch1502, the housing can automatically enter a standby state when not in use. While in a standby state, thehousing1600 goes online, or powers up, once an audio signal is received via the input jacks202.
• Theaddress switch221 allows a user to select one or more receiver housings1500 (seeFIG. 15) for receiving the combined signal transmitted by thehousing1600. In this way, the user is able to select thedestination receiver housing1500 that will receive the combined signal. Once selected, the combined signal is transmitted to the selectedreceiver housing1500 via the powerline network.
• TheLED power indicator1506 is configured to emit light when thehousing1600 is in an ON state. TheLED power indicator1506 does not emit light when thehousing1600 is in an OFF state.
• TheLED Tx indicator1602 is configured to emit light when thehousing1600 is transmitting a combined signal via the powerline. When thehousing1600 is not transmitting the combined signal, the LED Tx indicator does not emit light. In this way, the user is able to determine whether thehousing1600 is receiving a signal via theaudio inputs202 and combining that signal with the control signal for transmission via the powerline network. As previously mentioned, other networks can be used. For example, a digital radio frequency network, an Ethernet network, and/or other wired or wireless networks can be used.
• During operation, theTx components104 of thehousing1600 receive audio and control signals via the input jacks202. TheTx components108 combine the audio and control signals and transmit the resulting combined signal in the form of data packets via the powerline network. Components which may be used to perform the combining of the control and audio signals are illustrated in, and were explained with reference to,FIG. 5.
• A process for combining the audio signal and the control signal to form combined signal, that can be performed by the Tx components ofFIG. 16, is shown in, and was described with reference to,FIG. 9.
• In the embodiments described with reference toFIGS. 16 and 17, the AC/DC power supply1504 is provided in close proximity with thereceiver housing1500 or thetransmitter housing1600. Such a configuration may be advantageous to a user when coupling the transmitter orreceiver housings1500,1600 with audio output devices and/or loudspeakers. For example, user connects an output device to thehousing1600 via theaudio inputs202. The user inserts theplug228 for thehousing1600 into a wall outlet. Thehousing1600 is further coupled to the powerline system via theplug228 to form a path for the audio signal to enter the powerline system. Once in the powerline system, the audio signal is routed to the selectedreceiver housing1500 for conversion back to an audio signal.
• To achieve listening enjoyment in a selected location, the user attaches theaudio outputs1205,1207 of thereceiver housing1500 to one or more loudspeakers. The user inserts theplug228 into a wall outlet within the home or building, thereby completing a path for the audio signal to reach the loudspeakers.
• FIG. 17 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the receiver housing fromFIG. 15 that is adapted to wire to a wall socket viaplug228. Thereceiver housing1700 comprises apower switch1502, theRx components108, anaddress switch221, the AC/DC power supply1504, aplug228,audio output jacks1205 and1207, and anamplifier146 all as described with reference toFIG. 15. Thehousing1700 is advantageous it that the user can locate the housing a distance away from the wall outlet viawire1702. This is in contrast to the embodiment described with reference toFIG. 15 where the housing is located adjacent to the wall outlet.
• FIG. 18 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the transmitter housing fromFIG. 16 that is adapted to wire to a wall socket viaplug228. Thereceiver housing1800 comprises apower switch1502, theTx components104, anaddress switch221, aplug228, an AC/DC power supply1504, andaudio inputs202. Thehousing1600 can further comprise anLED power indicator1506 and anLED Tx indicator1602 all as described with reference toFIG. 16. Thehousing1800 is advantageous it that the user can locate the housing a distance away from the wall outlet viawire1702. This is in contrast to the embodiment described with reference toFIG. 16 where the housing is located adjacent to the wall outlet.
• FIG. 19 is a block diagram of afirst housing1900 for an AC/DC power supply which is wired, via awire1904, to asecond housing1902 for the receiver components fromFIG. 1. Thefirst housing1900 comprises aplug228 and an AC/DC power supply1504 all as described with reference toFIG. 15. For example, thefirst housing1900 may simply be a step down transformer or a transformer/rectifier combination. Thesecond housing1902 comprises apower switch1502, theRx components108, anaddress switch221,audio output jacks1205 and1207, and anamplifier146 all as described with reference toFIG. 15. Thesecond housing1902 can further comprise anLED power indicator1506 and anLED Rx indicator1508 all as described with reference toFIG. 15.
• FIG. 20 is a block diagram of a first housing for an AC/DC power supply which is wired to a second housing for the transmitter components fromFIG. 1. Thefirst housing2000 comprises aplug228 and an AC/DC power supply1504 all as described with reference toFIG. 19. Thesecond housing2002 comprises apower switch1502, theTx components104, anaddress switch221, andaudio inputs202 all as described with reference toFIG. 16. Thehousing2002 can further comprise anLED power indicator1506 and anLED Tx indicator1602 all as described with reference toFIG. 16.
• The foregoing description details certain preferred embodiments of the present invention and describes the best mode contemplated. It will be appreciated, however, that no matter how detailed the foregoing appears in text, the invention can be practiced in many ways. The embodiments of the receivers herein disclosed can be fixed or modular in design. For example, the digital amplifier can be designed for a DSP/DAP to plug into a digital bus. For a modular design, the receiver is configured to connect via Ethernet, wireless, wired, powerline, infrared, and/or RF through a common bus. Examples of common bus designs include I²S, I²C, parallel, and serial.
• As is also stated above, it should be noted that the use of particular terminology when describing certain features or aspects of the present invention should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being re-defined herein to be restricted to including any specific characteristics of the features or aspects of the invention with which that terminology is associated. The scope of the present invention should therefore be construed in accordance with the appended claims and any equivalents thereof.

Claims (58)

1. An apparatus for transmitting an audio signal via a network, the apparatus comprising:

a housing;

a transmitter module located in the housing and configured to receive an audio signal and a control signal, combine the audio and control signals into a combined signal, and transmit the combined signal to a receiver module via a network;

a plug coupled to the housing and configured for insertion into an electrical receptacle;

a power supply in the housing, coupled to the plug and configured to distribute electrical energy to the transmitter module; and

an input wire configured to couple the housing to an input device.

2. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the housing further incorporates an address switch configured for selecting an address from a plurality of addresses, the selected address being associated with the receiver module and uniquely identifying the receiver module within the network.

3. The apparatus ofclaim 2, wherein the housing further incorporates a power switch configured to select an off state or on state for the transmitter module.

4. The apparatus ofclaim 3, wherein the housing further incorporates a light emitting diode power indicator configured to emit light when the power supply is providing electrical energy to the transmitter module.

5. The apparatus ofclaim 4, wherein the housing further incorporates a light emitting diode transmitter indicator configured to emit light when the transmitter module is transmitting the combined signal.

6. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the network is wired.

7. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the network is a powerline.

8. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the network is wireless.

9. The apparatus ofclaim 8, wherein the network is RF.

10. The apparatus ofclaim 8, wherein the network is IR.

11. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the control signal is analog.

12. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the audio signal is digital.

13. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the control signal is digital.

14. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the control signal is a volume level.

15. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the control signal is a balance level.

16. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the control signal is a fader level.

17. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the control signal is a sub-bass level.

18. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the control signal is a destination source.

19. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the control signal is a sound processing selection.

20. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the control signal is an equalizer level.

21. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the control signal is an address.

22. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the control signal is a power on.

23. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the control signal is a power off.

24. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the control signal is a time delay.

25. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the control signal is a phase delay.

26. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the transmitter module is configured to power on in response to receiving the audio signal.

27. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the transmitter module is configured to power off in response to not receiving the audio signal.

28. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the control signal is in an I²C format.

29. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the audio signal is in an inter IC sound (I²S) format.

30. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the input device is a CD player.

31. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the input device is an AM/FM tuner.

32. An apparatus for transmitting an audio signal via a network, the apparatus comprising:

a first housing comprising,

a transmitter module configured to receive an audio signal and a control signal, combine the audio and control signals into a combined signal, and transmit the combined signal to a receiver module via a network;

a second housing comprising,

a plug configured for insertion into an electrical receptacle, and

a power supply coupled to the plug and configured to distribute electrical energy to the transmitter module;

a wire coupled between the first housing and the second housing; and

an input wire configured to couple the first housing to an input device.

33. The apparatus ofclaim 32, further comprising an address switch configured for selecting an address from a plurality of addresses, the selected address being associated with the receiver module and uniquely identifying the receiver module within the network.

34. The apparatus ofclaim 33, further comprising a power switch configured to select an off state or on state for the transmitter module.

35. The apparatus ofclaim 34, further comprising a light emitting diode power indicator configured to emit light when the power supply is providing electrical energy to the transmitter module.

36. The apparatus ofclaim 35, further comprising a light emitting diode transmitter indicator configured to emit light when the transmitter module is transmitting the combined signal.

37. The apparatus ofclaim 32, wherein the network is wired.

38. The apparatus ofclaim 32, wherein the network is a powerline.

39. The apparatus ofclaim 32, wherein the network is wireless.

40. The apparatus ofclaim 39, wherein the network is RF.

41. The apparatus ofclaim 39, wherein the network is IR.

42. The apparatus ofclaim 32, wherein the control signal is analog.

43. The apparatus ofclaim 32, wherein the audio signal is digital.

44. The apparatus ofclaim 32, wherein the control signal is digital.

45. The apparatus ofclaim 32, wherein the control signal is a volume level.

46. The apparatus ofclaim 32, wherein the control signal is a balance level.

47. The apparatus ofclaim 32, wherein the control signal is a fader level.

48. The apparatus ofclaim 32, wherein the control signal is a sub-bass level.

49. The apparatus ofclaim 32, wherein the control signal is a destination source.

50. The apparatus ofclaim 32, wherein the control signal is a sound processing selection.

51. The apparatus ofclaim 32, wherein the control signal is an equalizer level.

52. The apparatus ofclaim 32, wherein the control signal is an address.

53. The apparatus ofclaim 32, wherein the control signal is a power on.

54. The apparatus ofclaim 32, wherein the control signal is a phase delay.

55. The apparatus ofclaim 32, wherein the transmitter module is configured to power on in response to receiving the audio signal.

56. The apparatus ofclaim 32, wherein the transmitter module is configured to power off in response to not receiving the audio signal.

57. The apparatus ofclaim 32, wherein the control signal is in an I²C format.

58. The apparatus ofclaim 32, wherein the audio signal is in an inter IC sound (I²S) format.

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