Patent Application
20110041672
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The present invention relates generally to musical techniques. More particularly, the present invention provides a method and system for networking musical instruments and the like. But it would be recognized that the invention can have a much broader range of application.
MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface, IPA:/′mIdi/) is an industry-standard protocol that enables electronic musical instruments, computers, and other equipment to communicate, control, and synchronize with each other. MIDI allows computers, synthesizers, MIDI controllers, sound cards, samplers and drum machines to control one another, and to exchange system data (acting as a raw data encapsulation method for sysex commands).
As an electronic protocol, it is notable for its widespread adoption throughout the industry, and for continuing in use since its introduction in 1983. Today, most popular recorded music is written and performed using MIDI-equipped electronic keyboards (aka “synthesizers”). Much music is also written on computers using “Sequencers” and/or “Digital Audio workstations”. Other MIDI-equipped musical instruments may also be used, including digital drums, digital guitars, wind instruments, and more.
Most computers have the ability to play MIDI files using either built-in hardware or a software synthesizer that responds to MIDI messages, and with an appropriate adapter your computer can be connected to other MIDI-equipped products so you can use MIDI to help you learn, play, create and enjoy music.
Even film and TV scores are usually created on MIDI instruments, and with advances in digital sampling and synthesis technologies making digital instruments sound ever more realistic, the orchestra playing behind that big-screen block buster is more likely to be the product of a few MIDI devices than dozens of acoustic instruments.
Whereas producing music and sound-design in the past relied more heavily on acoustic instruments and ensembles—with a minimum of required electronic connections in the studio—the proliferation of MIDI and computers in the production process requires more and more direct connections to transfer data signals. More connections typically means more cabling.
MIDI, however, has limitations. That is, MIDI does not transmit an audio signal or media—it transmits “event messages” such as the pitch and intensity of musical notes to play, control signals for parameters such as volume, vibrato and panning, cues, and clock signals to set the tempo. A common problem in commercial, professional, semi-professional project studios and home studios alike is the overwhelming clutter associated with connection cables, especially when some devices need to be situated any type or distance from their signal destination (or receiver) for convenience, logistics and general space management purposes.
These cables include various audio cables, electrical power cables, and cables used for connecting MIDI (musical instrument digital interface) controllers and instruments to sound modules and/or computers. Certain controllers, such as MIDI drumkits, or MIDI-equipped grand pianos, are extremely large and unwieldy, and do not have portability, which limits organizational options greatly.
From the above, it is seen that techniques for improving MIDI and use of musical instruments are highly desirable.
According to the present invention, techniques related generally to musical are provided. More particularly, the present invention provides a method and system for networking musical instruments and the like. But it would be recognized that the invention can have a much broader range of application.
In a specific embodiment, the present invention provides a system and method that offers a more streamlined and convenient environment to make using electronic music hardware and software easier. Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.
In a specific embodiment, the invention provides a system including at least two receiver/transmitter modules that carry MIDI data signals (or any future derivation or improvement on current MIDI signal protocols, such as OSC, mLAN, or HMIDI etc.) between a MIDI controller and a MIDI receiver over existing electrical powerlines. In one or more embodiments, the system is intended for use over a local area of [x distance. Sq. meters] and generally requires that the two power connections are on the same transformer or other variations.
The invention present invention provides a module can be used with any device that transmits MIDI signals (or any future derivation or improvement on current MIDI signal protocols, such as OSC, mLAN, or HMIDI etc.) according to other embodiments. As stated previously, a common problem in all studios alike is the overwhelming clutter associated with connection cables, especially when some devices need to be situated any distance from their signal destination (or receiver.) Of course, there can be other variations, modifications, and alternatives.
In yet an alternative embodiment, the present invention provides an apparatus for processing one or more MIDI signals into a powerline format. The apparatus has an input port configured to receive a first digital signal having a MIDI format. The apparatus also has one or more powerline modules configured to process at least the digital signal in the MIDI format to a second digital signal in a powerline format. The apparatus also has an output port configured to transfer the second digital signal. As used herein, the term “module” is defined by ordinary meaning and can include a single or multiple modules and/or other like devices.
As an example of this method: a MIDI controller connects to Module 1 via MIDI connection or USB. Module 1 plugs into the nearest available power outlet. Module 2 is plugged into another power outlet and receives the signal over the powerline, which it sends to the MIDI receiver or computer it is connected to via MIDI or USB connection. Further details of the present invention can be found throughout the present specification and more particularly below.
The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part of the specification, illustrate several aspects of the present invention, and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings:
According to the present invention, techniques related generally to musical are provided. More particularly, the present invention provides a method and system for networking musical instruments and the like. But it would be recognized that the invention can have a much broader range of application.
While the above is a full description of the specific embodiments, various modifications, alternative constructions and equivalents may be used. Therefore, the above description and illustrations should not be taken as limiting the scope of the present invention which is defined by the appended claims.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 61234765 | Aug 2009 | US |
