Position sensing using loudspeakers as microphones

Abstract

A multi-channel audio system having multiple loudspeakers is used to obtain information on the location of one or more independent noise sources within an area covered by the loudspeakers. Within the multi-channel audio system, an audio output device has an input for coupling to and receiving audio signals from one or more audio sources; an audio processing module for generating a audio drive signals and providing them on respective outputs to a number of loudspeakers. A sensing module has inputs connected to respective outputs of the audio processing module, for receiving signals corresponding to sound sensed by the loudspeakers. The sensing module includes a discriminator for discriminating between signals corresponding to the audio drive signals and sensed signals from an independent noise source within range of the loudspeakers. A position computation module determines a two or three dimensional position of each independent noise source sensed, relative to the loudspeakers. The determined positions can then be used to determine control parameters for the audio system or for other devices connected to the audio system.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to audio systems that use a speaker to produce sound output, where the speaker can also be used as a microphone to detect sound input. Background technique [0002] A clear trend in the use of consumer electronic devices is an attempt to simplify the user interface. It is desirable, wherever possible, to enable automatic performance of "setup" and "operational adjustment" type tasks that would otherwise require manual user intervention. This is especially true where the adjustment task is complex or difficult or where the performance of the adjustment would affect the normal use of the device. Examples of these adjustment tasks are setting audio output parameters such as equalization, pitch, volume, etc. according to the environment in which the audio system operates. [0003] Some of these tasks can be done automatically or semi-automatically, where it is possible and feasible for the device itself to determine the nece...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0004] In this regard, the prior art has recognized that loudspeakers are bi-directional acousto-electric transducers, i.e. they are also capable of functioning as microphones, albeit with relatively low sensitivity

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