System and method for three-dimensional control of noise emission in interactive space

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods, devices, and systems for controlling emission of audio tracks in a three-dimensional (3D) space. The audio system is configured to: detect a launch via a first audio track of one or more of the plurality of speakers, where the first audio track is associated with a scenic spot; and selecting a speaker of the plurality of speakers. The audio system is further configured to: determine whether the selected speaker is within a predetermined distance from the scenic spot; if the selected speaker is within a predetermined distance from the scenic spot, determining whether the selected speaker is emitting a second audio track different from the first audio track; and if the selected speaker is not emitting the second audio track, controlling emission via the first audio track of the selected speaker.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. invention application serial number 17 / 852,276, filed on June 28, 2022, entitled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR THREE-DIMENSIONAL CONTROL OF NOISE EMISSION IN INTERACTIVE SPACE,” which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. provisional application serial number 63 / 341,331, filed on May 12, 2022, entitled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR THREE-DIMENSIONAL CONTROL OF NOISE EMISSION ININTERACTIVE SPACE,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference for all applicable purposes and as fully set forth in their entirety below. Technical Field

[0002] The techniques discussed below relate generally to audio transmission systems, and more particularly to controlling audio levels of multiple audio tracks transmitted in a three-dimensional (3D) interactive space. Background Art

[0003] In an amusement park setting, multiple sources may emit sound simultaneously within a given vicinity. The sources may be close enough to each other that the sound emitted from one source may interfere with the sound emitted from one or more other sources.

[0004] For example, an area of ​​a park may include many attractions (e.g., restaurants, stage performances, carnival games, shops, etc.), each of which has a separate sound (audio track) associated with the attraction. In addition, each attraction may have its own speaker that independently plays the associated audio track. If the attractions are close enough to each other, the simultaneous and independent transmission of two or more audio tracks may cause the audio track transmissions to interfere with each other. If the simultaneous audio track transmission becomes an amalgamation of noise emanating from different attractions and different directions that are unbalanced in sound because the audio tracks are independently transmitted without cohesion, this results in an unpleasant listening experience for park patrons.

[0005] Therefore, the present disclosure is directed to a unified audio system that uses a collection of speakers to control the transmission of multiple audio tracks (associated with multiple attractions) in a cohesive manner. The audio system will determine which speakers of the collection of speakers to use and the most efficient way to use such speakers in order to prevent the multiple audio track transmissions from interfering with each other and promote a better listening experience for park patrons. Summary of the invention

[0006] An overview of one or more aspects of the present disclosure is presented below in order to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This overview is not an extensive review of all contemplated features of the present disclosure, and is neither intended to identify key or critical elements of all aspects of the present disclosure, nor is it intended to indicate the scope of any or all aspects of the present disclosure. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more aspects of the present disclosure in a simplified form as a preface to a more detailed description presented later.

[0007] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to methods, devices, and systems for controlling the emission of an audio track in a three-dimensional (3D) space. In one example, an audio system is disclosed. The audio system includes a plurality of speakers and a control system coupled to the plurality of speakers. The control system is configured to: detect the emission of a first audio track via one or more of the plurality of speakers, wherein the first audio track is associated with an attraction; select a speaker from the plurality of speakers; and determine whether the selected speaker is within a predetermined distance from the attraction. The control system is also configured to: if the selected speaker is within a predetermined distance from the attraction, determine whether the selected speaker is emitting a second audio track different from the first audio track; and if the selected speaker is not emitting the second audio track, control the emission of the first audio track via the selected speaker. The audio system also includes an element detection system configured to determine the proximity of the selected speaker to the attraction and determine whether the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker interferes with the transmission of another audio track; a 3D modeler configured to determine whether the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker causes echo and / or reverberation through the selected speaker; and one or more feedback microphones configured to determine whether the noise level in the vicinity of the selected speaker or attraction interferes with the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker. Other aspects, embodiments, and features are also claimed and described.

[0008] In one example, a method of controlling the emission of an audio track in a three-dimensional (3D) space is disclosed. The method includes: detecting the emission of a first audio track via one or more speakers of a plurality of speakers, wherein the first audio track is associated with an attraction; selecting a speaker from the plurality of speakers; determining whether the selected speaker is within a predetermined distance from the attraction; if the selected speaker is within the predetermined distance from the attraction, determining whether the selected speaker is emitting a second audio track different from the first audio track; and if the selected speaker is not emitting the second audio track, controlling the emission of the first audio track via the selected speaker.

[0009] In one example, a control system for controlling the emission of an audio track in a three-dimensional (3D) space is disclosed. The control system includes at least one processor and a memory coupled to the at least one processor. The at least one processor is configured to: detect the emission of a first audio track via one or more speakers of a plurality of speakers, wherein the first audio track is associated with an attraction; select a speaker from the plurality of speakers; determine whether the selected speaker is within a predetermined distance from the attraction; if the selected speaker is within the predetermined distance from the attraction, determine whether the selected speaker is emitting a second audio track different from the first audio track; and if the selected speaker is not emitting the second audio track, control the emission of the first audio track via the selected speaker. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 An example audio system is illustrated in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 2 An example implementation of an audio system in three-dimensional (3D) space according to an aspect of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0012] Figure 3 FIG. 1 shows an example of a method according to an aspect of the present disclosure. Figure 2 Another example implementation of an audio system in a three-dimensional (3D) space.

[0013] Figure 4 An example implementation of an audio system in three-dimensional (3D) space according to an aspect of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0014] Figure 5 FIG. 1 shows an example of a method according to an aspect of the present disclosure. Figure 4 Another example implementation of an audio system in a three-dimensional (3D) space.

[0015] Figure 6 An example implementation of an audio system in three-dimensional (3D) space according to an aspect of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0016] Figure 7 FIG. 1 shows an example of a method according to an aspect of the present disclosure. Figure 6 Another example implementation of an audio system in a three-dimensional (3D) space.

[0017] Figure 8 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary process for controlling the transmission of an audio track in a three-dimensional (3D) space according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0018] Fig. 9 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary process for controlling the transmission of an audio track in a three-dimensional (3D) space according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

[0019] Fig.10 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware implementation for an exemplary audio system employing a control system according to an aspect of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The detailed description set forth below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings is intended to be a description of various configurations, and is not intended to represent the only configuration in which the concepts described herein can be practiced. For the purpose of providing a full understanding of the various concepts, the detailed description includes specific details. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these concepts can be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form to avoid confusing such concepts. Although various aspects and embodiments are described in this application by the description of some examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that additional implementations and use cases may occur in many different arrangements and scenarios. The innovation described herein can be implemented across many different platform types, devices, systems, shapes, sizes and / or packaging arrangements.

[0021] Multiple audio sources that simultaneously emit sound in a defined area or space (such as in an amusement park environment) may be within a certain distance from each other such that sound emitted from one audio source interferes with sound emitted from one or more other audio sources. Therefore, a system for controlling sound emitted from audio sources in a defined area or space may be used to reduce or eliminate sound interference.

[0022] In one aspect, a unified audio system can use a collection of speakers to control the emission of multiple audio tracks in three dimensions (3D). The unified audio system can adjust the volume of each audio track and control which speakers in the collection output the audio tracks so that one or more specific audio tracks can be more audible in the space than other audio tracks. Thus, the system can reduce the sound interference (noise) from such audio tracks that flow into the space where the audio tracks are not intended to be heard. In one aspect, the system can individually and actively control the volume level of each speaker and audio track based on feedback from a collection of input devices. Thus, speakers and audio tracks can be added or removed from the space at will, and the system can compensate for the addition or removal to maintain the audio within defined limits.

[0023] Figure 1 An example audio system 100 according to an aspect of the present disclosure is illustrated. The audio system 100 may be implemented, for example, in a defined three-dimensional (3D) space, such as a theme park or area in an amusement park environment. The audio system 100 may include one or more input devices 102, one or more processing devices 104, and one or more output devices 106.

[0024] As an example, input device 102 may include audio tracks 110. Audio tracks 110 refer to streams of recorded sounds (e.g., music, messages, etc.) fixed in one or more storage media. The sounds of audio tracks 110 may be transmitted and / or output via output device 106. In one aspect, each audio track 110 may be associated with a different device, attraction, and / or interactive element having a defined position within the 3D space.

[0025] The input device 102 may also include a feedback microphone 112 configured to detect noise levels within the 3D space. In one aspect, the feedback microphone 112 may be placed at various locations such that each microphone may have a defined orientation within the space. Thus, a feedback microphone placed at a particular location (defined orientation) may detect sounds that interfere with the emission of an audio track intended to be heard at the particular location. For example, the interfering sounds may be caused by the emission of a different audio track that is not intended to be heard at the particular location or by random noise generated by a person, mechanical device, weather conditions, etc.

[0026] The input device 102 may also include an element detection system 114. In one aspect, an audio track may be associated with an object that moves within a 3D space, such as a character walking around or a parade float. As the object travels within the space, the emission of the audio track associated with the object may also travel, such that the audio track may be heard within the vicinity of the object. Thus, the element detection system 114 is a real-time 3D positioning system that is configured to detect the movement of the object within the space, which facilitates the emission of the audio track associated with the object to travel with the movement of the object.

[0027] The processing device 104 is a control system of the audio system 100. As an example, the processing device 104 may include a 3D modeler 120. The 3D modeler 120 is a computing device for determining and / or providing a 3D model of a soundscape. That is, the 3D modeler 120 is configured to determine and / or provide a layout of a 3D space and the location of each device, attraction, and / or interactive element having a defined orientation within the space. The 3D modeler 120 is also configured to determine and / or provide surfaces within the 3D space that may interfere with the emission of an audio track. This allows an audio engineer to position new devices, attractions, and / or interactive elements into the 3D space and adjust their parameters.

[0028] The processing device 104 may also include an audio processor 122. The audio processor 122 is configured to receive input and data from the audio tracks 110, feedback microphones 112, element detection systems 114, and / or 3D modeler 120 described above, and to generate sound through the output device 106. In one aspect, the audio processor 122 is configured to measure microphone inputs from feedback microphones 112 placed at various locations within the 3D space and calculate the noise level at each location. The audio processor 122 is also configured to determine the travel and flight time of each audio track 110.

[0029] The output device 106 includes a speaker 130. Thus, the sound of the audio track 110 can be emitted through the 3D space via the speaker 130. In one aspect, the speaker 130 has a defined position and direction in the 3D space. In addition, the speaker 130 is configured to be controlled by the audio processor 122. For example, the audio processor 122 can adjust the volume of the speaker 130 (or disable the speaker 130) in order to reduce the volume of noise or any other sound emitted from the speaker 130.

[0030] Various aspects of the present disclosure will be described below with respect to the accompanying drawings. In the accompanying drawings, examples are presented in a two-dimensional (2D) space. However, it is contemplated that the described operations may also be implemented in a three-dimensional (3D) space, where sounds from an audio track may be emitted from different heights.

[0031] Figure 2 An example implementation 200 of an audio system (e.g., audio system 100) in a three-dimensional (3D) space 202 is illustrated in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. The 3D space 202 may be, for example, a theme park or area of ​​an amusement park. In one aspect, one or more speakers of the audio system may be placed at various locations throughout the space 202. For example, a first speaker 204, a second speaker 206, and a third speaker 208 may be placed at the northern edge of the space 202, a fourth speaker 210 and a fifth speaker 212 may be placed at the central portion of the space 202, and a sixth speaker 214 and a seventh speaker 216 may be placed at the southern edge of the space 202. Thus, each of the speakers 204, 206, 208, 210, 212, 214, and 216 has a defined position and direction in the space 202.

[0032] Mobile attractions 218 (e.g., characters that move around or parade floats) may travel within the space 202. Non-mobile (fixed) attractions 220 (e.g., restaurants, carnival game booths, or performance stages) may be set at fixed locations within the space 202. In one aspect, the audio system is configured to transmit an audio track associated with the attraction through one or more speakers in the vicinity of the attraction. For example, when the mobile attraction 218 is at its current location in the space 202, the audio system may determine (e.g., via the element detection system 114) the location of the mobile attraction 218 and transmit the associated audio track based on the determined location. Therefore, the audio system may transmit the associated audio track of the mobile attraction via the second speaker 206, the third speaker 208, and the fifth speaker 212 in the vicinity of the mobile attraction 218. Similarly, the audio system may determine (or previously know) the location of the fixed attraction 220 and transmit the audio track associated with the fixed attraction 220 based on the location of the fixed attraction. Thus, the audio system may transmit the associated audio track of the fixed attraction via the sixth speaker 214 and the seventh speaker 216 in the vicinity of the fixed attraction 220 .

[0033] Figure 3 FIG. 1 shows an example of a method according to an aspect of the present disclosure. Figure 2 3D space 202. As shown, mobile attraction 218 has moved toward the southern edge of space 202, closer to fixed attraction 220. In one aspect, as mobile attraction 218 travels in space 202, the transmission of an audio track associated with mobile attraction 218 may also travel with mobile attraction 218, so that the associated audio track may continue to be heard in the vicinity of mobile attraction 218. For example, when mobile attraction 218 reaches its position in space 202, the transmission of an audio track associated with mobile attraction 218 may continue to be heard in the vicinity of mobile attraction 218. Figure 3 When the position of the mobile attraction 218 in the space 202 is determined, the audio system can determine (e.g., via the element detection system 114) the new position of the mobile attraction 218 and transmit the associated audio track based on the new position. Therefore, the audio system can transmit the associated audio track of the mobile attraction via the fifth speaker 212 and the sixth speaker 214, which are now in the vicinity of the mobile attraction 218. It is worth noting that in order to transmit the associated audio track of the mobile attraction via the sixth speaker 214, the audio system will terminate the transmission of the audio track of the fixed attraction via the sixth speaker 214 (as in Figure 2 ), to allow the transmission of the audio track of the moving attraction through the sixth speaker 214.

[0034] In one aspect, when the mobile attraction 218 moves toward the southern edge of the space 202, the audio system can determine that the mobile attraction 218 is no longer in the vicinity of the second speaker 206 and the third speaker 208. Therefore, the audio system can terminate the transmission of the associated audio track of the mobile attraction via the second speaker 206 and the third speaker 208 to allow other audio tracks to be transmitted through such speakers.

[0035] In further aspects, when two attractions are near each other, an audio track associated with one of the attractions may be prioritized and / or preferred over an audio track associated with the other attraction to prevent interference between the audio tracks. For example, when the mobile attraction 218 moves near the fixed attraction 220, the transmission of the audio track associated with the fixed attraction 220 may interfere with (e.g., disrupt its listening enjoyment of) the transmission of the audio track associated with the mobile attraction 218. Therefore, if the audio track associated with the mobile attraction 218 has priority (is preferred) over the audio track associated with the fixed attraction 220, the audio system may reduce the volume of the transmission of the associated audio track of the fixed attraction via the seventh speaker 216 so as not to interfere with the transmission of the associated audio track of the mobile attraction via the fifth speaker 212 and the sixth speaker 214.

[0036] Figure 4 An example implementation 400 of an audio system (eg, audio system 100) in a three-dimensional (3D) space 402 according to an aspect of the present disclosure is illustrated. Figure 2 The 3D space 202 described, Figure 4 The 3D space 402 may be, for example, a theme park or area of ​​an amusement park. In addition, one or more speakers of the audio system may have a defined orientation and direction and be placed at various locations throughout the space 402. For example, the first speaker 404, the second speaker 406, and the third speaker 408 may be placed at the northern edge of the space 402, the fourth speaker 410 and the fifth speaker 412 may be placed at the center portion of the space 402, and the sixth speaker 414 and the seventh speaker 416 may be placed at the southern edge of the space 402.

[0037] A non-mobile (fixed) attraction 420 (e.g., a restaurant, a carnival game booth, or a performance stage) may be set at a fixed location within the space 402. In addition, the audio system may be configured to transmit an audio track associated with the fixed attraction 420 through one or more speakers in the vicinity of the attraction. For example, the audio system may determine (or previously know) the location of the fixed attraction 420 (e.g., via the element detection system 114) and transmit an audio track associated with the fixed attraction 420 based on the location of the fixed attraction. Thus, the audio system may transmit the associated audio track of the fixed attraction via the sixth speaker 414 and the seventh speaker 416 in the vicinity of the fixed attraction 420.

[0038] In one aspect, when one or more noise generating entities 430 (e.g., a noisy group of people) move near a fixed attraction 420, the noise generated by the entities 430 may interfere with (e.g., disrupt the listening enjoyment of) the transmission of the audio track associated with the fixed attraction 420. Thus, as will be described below with respect to Figure 5 As described, the audio system can compensate for the increased noise and reduce interference on the audio track.

[0039] Figure 5 According to one aspect of the present disclosure, Figure 4 Another example implementation 500 of an audio system (e.g., audio system 100) in a three-dimensional (3D) space 402 of an amusement park. In one aspect, when a noise-generating entity 430 (e.g., a rowdy group of people) moves near a fixed attraction 420, one or more feedback microphones (e.g., feedback microphone 112) placed near the fixed attraction 420 can detect a change in the sound level for the area near the fixed attraction 420. Based on the detected sound level, the audio system can determine (e.g., via the audio processor 122) that the noise caused by the entity 430 exceeds a threshold and interferes with the transmission of an audio track associated with the fixed attraction 420. Therefore, when transmitting the associated audio track of the fixed attraction, the audio system can compensate for the noise and promote a better listening experience (e.g., for amusement park patrons) by increasing the volume of the sixth speaker 414 and the seventh speaker 416.

[0040] In one aspect, the audio system may also utilize speakers that are far away from (not in its local vicinity) the fixed attraction 420 to enhance the sound of the audio track and further increase its listening enjoyment. For example, the audio system may compensate for the noise caused by the entity 430 by also transmitting the audio track of the fixed attraction through the third speaker 408 and the fifth speaker 412. Thus, the audio system may expand the area where the audio track is transmitted to account for the presence of the noise generating entity 430 near the fixed attraction 420.

[0041] Figure 6An example implementation 600 of an audio system (eg, audio system 100) in a three-dimensional (3D) space 602 according to an aspect of the present disclosure is illustrated. Figure 2 The 3D space 202 described, Figure 6 The 3D space 602 may be, for example, a theme park or area of ​​an amusement park. In addition, one or more speakers of the audio system may have a defined orientation and direction and be placed at various locations throughout the space 602. For example, the first speaker 604, the second speaker 606, and the third speaker 608 may be placed at the northern edge of the space 602, the fourth speaker 610 and the fifth speaker 612 may be placed at the center portion of the space 602, and the sixth speaker 614 and the seventh speaker 616 may be placed at the southern edge of the space 602.

[0042] A moving attraction 618 (e.g., a character walking around or a parade float) can travel within the space 602. In addition, the audio system can be configured to transmit an audio track associated with the moving attraction 618 through one or more speakers in the vicinity of the attraction. For example, when the moving attraction 618 is at its current location in the space 602, the audio system can determine (e.g., via the element detection system 114) the location of the moving attraction 618 and transmit the associated audio track based on the determined location. Thus, the audio system can transmit the associated audio track of the moving attraction via the first speaker 604 and the fourth speaker 610 in the vicinity of the moving attraction 618.

[0043] In one aspect, the presence of the mobile attraction 618 at a certain location in the space 602 (e.g., the northwest portion of the space 602) can cause one or more speakers (e.g., the first speaker 604) in the vicinity of the mobile attraction to echo and / or reverberate when emitting the associated audio track of the mobile attraction and thus disrupt the listening enjoyment of the audio track. Figure 7 As described, the audio system may compensate for any disruptive echo and / or reverberation caused by the offending speaker.

[0044] Figure 7 FIG. 1 shows an example of a method according to an aspect of the present disclosure. Figure 6Another example implementation 700 of an audio system (e.g., audio system 100) in a three-dimensional (3D) space 602 of an amusement park is shown. In one aspect, when a mobile attraction 618 moves to a certain location in the space 602 (e.g., the northwest portion of the space 602), the audio system may determine (e.g., via the 3D modeler 120) that an echo and / or reverberation from an offending speaker (e.g., the first speaker 604) exists (or may potentially exist) during the transmission of an audio track associated with the mobile attraction. As a result, the audio system may reduce the volume of the offending speaker (or disable the offending speaker entirely) to eliminate any echo and / or reverberation, and thus facilitate a better listening experience (e.g., for amusement park patrons) of the transmitted audio track. For example, if the audio system determines (e.g., via the 3D modeler 120) that an echo and / or reverberation from the first speaker 604 interferes with the transmission of an audio track associated with the mobile attraction 618, the audio system may reduce the volume of the first speaker 604 (or disable the first speaker 604).

[0045] In one aspect, the audio system may further balance the volume of the audio track emission to compensate for the lower volume (or disabling) of the offending speaker. For example, when the volume of the first speaker 604 is reduced due to echo and / or reverberation (or when the first speaker 604 is disabled), the audio system may detect (e.g., via the audio processor 122) the reduction in the volume of the audio track emission. As a result, the audio system may enable speakers (e.g., the second speaker 606 and the fifth speaker 612) that are far away from (not in its local vicinity) the mobile attraction 618 to emit the associated audio track of the mobile attraction. As a result, the audio system may maintain the preferred and / or acceptable volume level of the associated audio track and increase its listening enjoyment.

[0046] Figure 8 8 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary process 800 for controlling the transmission of an audio track in a three-dimensional (3D) space according to an aspect of the present disclosure. As described below, some or all of the illustrated features may be omitted in certain implementations within the scope of the present disclosure, and some of the illustrated features may not be required for implementations of all aspects. In some examples, process 800 may be performed by Figure 1 The audio system 100 shown in FIG. 1 (eg, via the processing device 104) or by Fig.10 1000 (e.g., via control system 1014), which may be a computer, workstation, laptop, tablet, mobile phone, or any other type of electronic device capable of communicating with and / or controlling other electronic devices. In some examples, process 800 may be performed by any suitable device or component for performing the functions or algorithms described below.

[0047] At block 802, the audio system detects an audio track being emitted and / or played in 3D space via one or more speakers of the audio system. In one aspect, the audio track is associated with an attraction (e.g., a mobile attraction or a fixed attraction) in an amusement park environment. At block 804, the audio system selects a speaker to control. The selected speaker may be one of the one or more speakers emitting and / or playing the audio track, or may be a different speaker of the audio system.

[0048] At block 806, the audio system determines whether the selected speaker is within range of the associated attraction for which the audio track is being transmitted (e.g., in a nearby area or within a predetermined distance). If the selected speaker is not within range of the associated attraction, the audio system proceeds to block 824 to determine the presence or absence of other speakers to be controlled. If the selected speaker is within range of the associated attraction, the audio system proceeds to block 808.

[0049] At block 808, the audio system determines whether the selected speaker is currently transmitting another audio track (e.g., an audio track not associated with an attraction and / or an audio track different from the audio track detected at block 802). If the selected speaker is transmitting another audio track, the audio system proceeds to block 824 to determine the presence or absence of other speakers to be controlled. If the selected speaker is not transmitting another audio track, the audio system may begin transmitting (or continue transmitting) an audio track associated with an attraction via the selected speaker, and thereafter proceed to block 810.

[0050] At block 810, the audio system sets the volume of the selected speaker used to transmit the audio track based on the proximity of the selected speaker to the attraction. For example, if the selected speaker is a large distance from the attraction, the audio system may set the volume of the speaker to a higher level. If the selected speaker is a small distance from the attraction, the audio system may set the volume of the speaker to a lower level.

[0051] At block 812, the audio system determines whether the transmission of the audio track via the selected speaker interferes with the transmission of another audio track. For example, the audio track transmitted by the selected speaker may have a lower priority (may be less preferred) than another audio track (e.g., an audio track associated with a mobile attraction) transmitted in the vicinity of the selected speaker. Therefore, the transmission of the audio track via the selected speaker may interfere with (disrupt its listening enjoyment of) the other audio track. Therefore, if the audio system determines that the transmission of the audio track via the selected speaker interferes with the transmission of the other audio track, the audio system proceeds to block 816. At block 816, the audio system may reduce the volume of the selected speaker transmitting the audio track, or otherwise disable the selected speaker so as not to interfere with the transmission of the other audio track.

[0052] If the transmission of the audio track via the selected speaker does not interfere with the transmission of another audio track, the audio system proceeds to block 814. At block 814, the audio system determines whether the transmission of the audio track causes echo and / or reverberation through the selected speaker that disrupts the listening enjoyment of the audio track. If the audio system determines that the transmission of the audio track causes echo and / or reverberation, the audio system proceeds to block 816, where the audio system can reduce the volume of the selected speaker transmitting the audio track, or otherwise disable the selected speaker, in order to eliminate the echo and / or reverberation.

[0053] If the audio system determines that the transmission of the audio track does not cause echo and / or reverberation, the audio system proceeds to block 818. At block 818, the audio system determines whether the noise level in the vicinity of the selected speaker (and / or the associated attraction for which the audio track is transmitted) interferes with the transmission of the audio track via the selected speaker. For example, when one or more noise generating entities generate noise in the area near the selected speaker (and / or the associated attraction), the audio system may detect a change in the sound level in the area. Based on the detected sound level, the audio system may determine that the noise level exceeds a threshold and interferes with the transmission of the audio track via the selected speaker.

[0054] If the audio system determines that the noise level does not interfere with the transmission of the audio track via the selected speaker, the audio system proceeds to block 820. At block 820, the audio system maintains the volume of the selected speaker transmitting the audio track.

[0055] If the audio system determines that the noise level interferes with the transmission of the audio track via the selected speaker, the audio system proceeds to block 822. At block 822, the audio system may increase the volume of the selected speaker transmitting the audio track to compensate for the noise. In an aspect, the audio system may also enhance the sound of the audio track with other speakers that are far away (not in its local vicinity) from the selected speaker (and / or associated attraction). Thus, the audio system may expand the area from which the audio track is transmitted to account for the presence of noise near the selected speaker and / or associated attraction.

[0056] Upon completion of the operations at blocks 816, 820, and 822, the audio system proceeds to block 824. At block 824, the audio system determines the presence or absence of any additional speakers to be controlled. If the additional speakers are present, the audio system proceeds to block 804 to select one of the additional speakers for further control. If the additional speakers are not present, the audio system proceeds to block 826.

[0057] At block 826, the audio system determines whether the transmission of the audio track is complete. If the transmission of the audio track is not complete, the audio system proceeds back to block 802 to implement further operations. If the transmission of the audio track is complete, the audio system ends the operation on the detected audio track.

[0058] Fig. 9 900 is a flow chart illustrating an exemplary process 900 for controlling the transmission of an audio track in a three-dimensional (3D) space according to an aspect of the present disclosure. As described below, some or all of the illustrated features may be omitted in certain implementations within the scope of the present disclosure, and some of the illustrated features may not be required for implementations of all aspects. In some examples, process 900 may be performed by Figure 1 The audio system 100 shown in FIG. 1 (eg, via the processing device 104) or by Fig.10 1000 (e.g., via control system 1014), which may be a computer, workstation, laptop, tablet, mobile phone, or any other type of electronic device capable of communicating with and / or controlling other electronic devices. In some examples, process 900 may be performed by any suitable device or component for performing the functions or algorithms described below.

[0059] At block 902, the audio system detects (e.g., via the audio track 110, the 3D modeler 120, and / or the audio processor 122) an emission of a first audio track via one or more speakers of a plurality of speakers (e.g., the speakers 130). The first audio track is associated with an attraction. For example, the attraction may be a mobile attraction (e.g., a character walking around or a parade float) or a fixed attraction (e.g., a restaurant, a carnival game booth, or a performance stage).

[0060] At block 904, the audio system selects (e.g., via the 3D modeler 120 and / or the audio processor 122) a speaker from the plurality of speakers. In one aspect, the selected speaker is one of the speakers included in the one or more speakers emitting the first audio track. In another aspect, the selected speaker is a speaker separate from the one or more speakers emitting the first audio track.

[0061] At block 906, the audio system determines (e.g., via the element detection system 114, the 3D modeler 120, and / or the audio processor 122) whether the selected speaker is within a predetermined distance from the point of interest. If the selected speaker is not within the predetermined distance from the point of interest, the audio system may select another speaker to control (if available).

[0062] If the selected speaker is within a predetermined distance from the attraction, then at block 908, the audio system determines (e.g., via the audio track 110 and / or the audio processor 122) whether the selected speaker is transmitting a second audio track that is different from the first audio track. For example, the second audio track may be an audio track that is not associated with the attraction. If the selected speaker is transmitting the second audio track, the audio system may select another speaker to control (if available). If the selected speaker is not transmitting the second audio track, then at block 910, the audio system controls (e.g., via the audio processor 122) the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker.

[0063] In one aspect, the audio system controls the emission of the first audio track via the selected speaker by determining (e.g., the element detection system 114) the proximity of the selected speaker to the attraction and setting the volume of the selected speaker for emitting the first audio track based on the proximity. For example, if the selected speaker is a large distance from the attraction, the audio system may set the volume of the selected speaker to a higher level. If the selected speaker is a small distance from the attraction, the audio system may set the volume of the selected speaker to a lower level.

[0064] In another aspect, the audio system controls the transmission of a first audio track via a selected speaker by determining (e.g., via the element detection system 114) whether the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker interferes with the transmission of another audio track. For example, the first audio track may have a lower priority (may be less preferred) than another audio track transmitted in the vicinity of the selected speaker. Therefore, the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker may interfere with (disrupt the listening enjoyment of) the other audio track. If so, the audio system may control the transmission by reducing the volume of the selected speaker used to transmit the first audio track or completely disabling the selected speaker to prevent interference.

[0065] In further aspects, the audio system controls the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker by determining (e.g., via the 3D modeler 120) whether the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker causes an echo and / or reverberation through the selected speaker. If so, the audio system may control the transmission by reducing the volume of the selected speaker used to transmit the first audio track or disabling the selected speaker entirely in order to eliminate the echo and / or reverberation.

[0066] In another aspect, the audio system controls the emission of the first audio track via the selected speaker by determining (e.g., via the feedback microphone 112) whether the noise level in the vicinity of the selected speaker or attraction interferes with the emission of the first audio track via the selected speaker. For example, when one or more noise generating entities generate noise in the vicinity of the selected speaker (and / or associated attraction), the audio system may detect a change in the sound level in the area. Based on the detected sound level, the audio system may determine that the noise level exceeds a threshold and interferes with the emission of the first audio track via the selected speaker. Therefore, if the noise level interferes with the emission of the first audio track, the audio system may control the emission by increasing the volume of the selected speaker used to emit the first audio track; or if the noise level does not interfere with the emission of the first audio track, the audio system may control the emission by maintaining the volume of the selected speaker used to emit the first audio track. If the noise level interferes with the emission of the first audio track, the audio system may also transmit the first audio track via at least one speaker that is not in the vicinity of the selected speaker or attraction. Therefore, the audio system may expand the area where the first audio track is emitted to compensate for the presence of noise near the selected speaker and / or attraction.

[0067] Fig.101014 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware implementation for an exemplary audio system 1000 employing a control system 1014. For example, the audio system 1000 may be a computer, a workstation, a laptop, a tablet, a mobile phone, or any other type of electronic device capable of communicating with and / or controlling other electronic devices. Additionally, the control system 1014 may be Figure 1 1000. The control system 1014 includes one or more processors 1004. Examples of processors 1004 include microprocessors, microcontrollers, digital signal processors (DSPs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), state machines, gated logic, discrete hardware circuits, and other suitable hardware configured to perform various functionalities described throughout this disclosure. In various examples, the audio system 1000 may be configured to perform any one or more of the functions described herein. That is, as utilized in the audio system 1000, the processor 1004 may be used to implement Figure 8 and Fig. 9 Any one or more of the processes and steps described and illustrated in the specification.

[0068] In this example, the control system 1014 may be implemented via a bus architecture, generally represented by bus 1002. Depending on the overall design constraints and the specific application of the processing system 1014, the bus 1002 may include any number of interconnecting buses and bridges. The bus 1002 communicatively couples various circuits together, including one or more processors (generally represented by processor 1004), memory 1005, and computer readable media (generally represented by computer readable media 1006). The bus 1002 may also link various other circuits, such as timing sources, peripherals, voltage regulators, and power management circuits, which are well known in the art and therefore will not be described any further. The bus interface 1008 provides an interface between the bus 1002 and the transceiver 1010. The transceiver 1010 provides a communication interface or component for communicating with various other devices over a transmission medium (e.g., via a wireless connection or a wired connection using an antenna array 1030). For example, the transceiver 1010 may provide a communication interface between the control system 1014 and the audio track 110, the feedback microphone 112, the element detection system 114, the 3D modeler 120, the audio processor 122, and / or the speaker 130. Depending on the nature of the device, a user interface 1012 (e.g., a keyboard, display, speaker, microphone, joystick) may also be provided. Of course, such a user interface 1012 is optional and may be omitted in some examples.

[0069] In some aspects of the present disclosure, the processor 1004 may include a soundtrack emission detection circuit 1040 configured for various functions, including, for example, detecting the emission of a first audio track via one or more of the plurality of speakers, wherein the first audio track is associated with a tourist attraction. For example, the soundtrack emission detection circuit 1040 may be configured to implement the above-described Fig. 9 The processor 1004 may further include a speaker selection circuit 1042 configured for various functions, including, for example, selecting a speaker from a plurality of speakers. For example, the speaker selection circuit 1042 may be configured to implement the above description of Fig. 9 The processor 1004 may further include a proximity determination circuit 1044 configured for various functions, including, for example, determining whether the selected speaker is within a predetermined distance from the attraction. For example, the proximity determination circuit 1044 may be configured to implement the above-described Fig. 9 Thus, the audio track emission detection circuit 1040 may also be configured to: if the selected speaker is within a predetermined distance from the attraction, determine whether the selected speaker is emitting a second audio track that is different from the first audio track. For example, the audio track emission detection circuit 1040 may be configured to implement the above-mentioned Fig. 9 The processor 1004 may also include a track emission control circuit 1046 configured for various functions, including, for example, controlling the emission of the first audio track via the selected speaker if the selected speaker is not emitting the second audio track. For example, the track emission detection circuit 1046 may be configured to implement the above-mentioned Fig. 9 One or more of the functions described, including block 910 .

[0070] The processor 1004 is responsible for managing the bus 1002 and general processing, including the execution of software stored on the computer-readable medium 1006. The software, when executed by the processor 1004, causes the control system 1014 to perform the various functions described above for any particular device. The computer-readable medium 1006 and memory 1005 may also be used to store data that is manipulated by the processor 1004 as the processor 1004 executes the software.

[0071] One or more processors 1004 in the control system can execute software. Software should be broadly interpreted as meaning instructions, instruction sets, codes, code segments, program codes, programs, subroutines, software modules, applications, software applications, software packages, routines, subroutines, objects, executable programs, execution threads, processes, functions, etc., whether they are called software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description language or other. The software may reside on a computer-readable medium 1006. The computer-readable medium 1006 may be a non-transitory computer-readable medium. By way of example, non-transitory computer-readable media include magnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disks, floppy disks, magnetic strips), optical disks (e.g., compact disks (CDs) or digital versatile disks (DVDs)), smart cards, flash memory devices (e.g., cards, sticks or key drives), random access memories (RAMs), read-only memories (ROMs), programmable ROMs (PROMs), erasable PROMs (EPROMs), electrically erasable PROMs (EEPROMs), registers, removable disks, and any other suitable medium for storing software and / or instructions that can be accessed and read by a computer. The computer readable medium 1006 may reside in the control system 1014, external to the control system 1014, or distributed across multiple entities including the control system 1014. The computer readable medium 1006 may be implemented in a computer program product. By way of example, a computer program product may include a computer readable medium in packaging materials. Those skilled in the art will recognize how to best implement the described functionality presented throughout this disclosure, depending on the overall design constraints imposed on the overall system and the specific application.

[0072] Within this disclosure, the word "exemplary" is used to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any implementation or aspect described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects of the disclosure. Likewise, the term "aspect" does not require that all aspects of the disclosure include the discussed feature, advantage, or mode of operation. The term "coupled" is used herein to refer to a direct or indirect coupling between two objects. For example, if object A physically touches object B, and object B touches object C, objects A and C may still be considered to be coupled to each other even if objects A and C are not directly physically touching each other. For example, a first object may be coupled to a second object even if the first object never makes direct physical contact with the second object.

[0073] Figure 1-10 One or more of the components, steps, features, and / or functions illustrated in the drawings may be rearranged and / or combined into a single component, step, feature, or function, or implemented in several components, steps, or functions. Additional elements, components, steps, and / or functions may also be added without departing from the novel features disclosed herein. Figure 1-10The devices, means and / or components illustrated in the drawings may be configured to perform one or more of the methods, features or steps described herein. The novel algorithms described herein may also be efficiently implemented in software and / or embedded in hardware.

[0074] It is to be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the disclosed methods is an illustration of an exemplary process. Based on design preferences, it is to be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the methods may be rearranged. The accompanying method claims present elements of the various steps in a sample order, and are not intended to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented unless specifically recited therein.

[0075] The previous description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects. Therefore, the claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but to conform to the full scope consistent with the language of the claims, wherein the reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean "one and only one", unless specifically stated, but rather "one or more". Unless otherwise specifically stated, the term "some" refers to one or more. The phrase "at least one of" the list of items referring to any combination of those items including a single member. As an example, "at least one of the following items: a, b or c" is intended to cover: a; b; c; a and b; a and c; b and c; and a, b and c. All structural and functional equivalents of the elements of the various aspects described throughout the present disclosure that are known or become known later to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be covered by the claims. In addition, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public, regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recorded in the claims. No claim element is to be construed under the provisions of 35 USC §112(f) unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase "means for" or, in the case of a method claim, the phrase "step for."

Claims

1. An audio system for controlling the transmission of an audio track in a three-dimensional (3D) space, the audio system comprising: Multiple speakers; as well as a control system coupled to the plurality of speakers, the control system configured to: detecting emission of a first audio track via one or more of the plurality of speakers, wherein the first audio track is associated with an attraction; selecting a speaker from the plurality of speakers; determining whether the selected speaker is within a predetermined distance from the point of interest; If the selected speaker is within the predetermined distance from the point of interest, determining whether the selected speaker is emitting a second audio track different from the first audio track; and If the selected speaker is not emitting the second audio track, controlling the emission of the first audio track via the selected speaker.

2. The audio system of claim 1, wherein: The speakers chosen are: a speaker included in the one or more speakers emitting the first audio track; or A speaker separate from the one or more speakers that transmit the first audio track.

3. The audio system of claim 1, further comprising: an element detection system configured to determine a proximity of the selected speaker to the attraction, Wherein the control system configured to control the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker is configured to set a volume of the selected speaker for transmitting the first audio track based on the proximity.

4. The audio system according to claim 3, in, The element detection system is further configured to determine whether the emission of the first audio track via the selected speaker interferes with the emission of another audio track, and, Wherein, the control system configured to control the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker is further configured to: if the transmission of the first audio track interferes with the transmission of the other audio track, reduce the volume of the selected speaker used to transmit the first audio track or disable the selected speaker.

5. The audio system of claim 3, further comprising: a 3D modeler configured to determine whether the emission of the first audio track via the selected loudspeaker causes an echo and / or reverberation through the selected loudspeaker, Wherein, the control system configured to control the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker is further configured to: if the transmission of the first audio track causes the echo and / or reverberation, reduce the volume of the selected speaker used to transmit the first audio track or disable the selected speaker.

6. The audio system of claim 3, further comprising: one or more feedback microphones configured to determine whether noise levels in a vicinity of the selected speaker or the attraction interfere with the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker, wherein the control system configured to control the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker is further configured to: If the noise level interferes with the transmission of the first audio track, increasing the volume of the selected speaker used to transmit the first audio track; and If the noise level does not interfere with the transmission of the first audio track, maintaining the volume of the selected speaker used to transmit the first audio track.

7. The audio system of claim 6, wherein: The control system configured to control the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker is further configured to: If the noise level interferes with the transmission of the first audio track, the first audio track is transmitted via at least one speaker of the plurality of speakers that is not in the selected speaker or the vicinity of the attraction.

8. A method of controlling the emission of an audio track in a three-dimensional (3D) space, the method comprising: detecting emission of a first audio track via one or more speakers of a plurality of speakers, wherein the first audio track is associated with an attraction; selecting a speaker from the plurality of speakers; determining whether the selected speaker is within a predetermined distance from the point of interest; If the selected speaker is within the predetermined distance from the point of interest, determining whether the selected speaker is emitting a second audio track different from the first audio track; and If the selected speaker is not emitting the second audio track, controlling the emission of the first audio track via the selected speaker.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein: The speakers chosen are: a speaker included in the one or more speakers emitting the first audio track; or A speaker separate from the one or more speakers that transmit the first audio track.

10. The method of claim 8, wherein: The controlling the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker comprises: determining a proximity of the selected speaker to the point of interest; and A volume of a selected speaker for transmitting the first audio track is set based on the proximity.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein: The controlling the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker comprises: determining whether the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker interferes with the transmission of another audio track; and If the transmission of the first audio track interferes with the transmission of the other audio track, the volume of the selected speaker used to transmit the first audio track is reduced or the selected speaker is disabled.

12. The method of claim 10, wherein: The controlling the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker comprises: determining whether the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker causes an echo and / or reverberation through the selected speaker; and If the transmission of the first audio track causes the echo and / or reverberation, the volume of the selected speaker used to transmit the first audio track is reduced or the selected speaker is disabled.

13. The method of claim 10, wherein: The controlling the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker comprises: determining whether noise levels in a vicinity of the selected speaker or the attraction interfere with the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker; If the noise level interferes with the transmission of the first audio track, increasing the volume of the selected speaker used to transmit the first audio track; and If the noise level does not interfere with the transmission of the first audio track, maintaining the volume of the selected speaker used to transmit the first audio track.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein: The controlling the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker comprises: If the noise level interferes with the transmission of the first audio track, the first audio track is transmitted via at least one speaker that is not in the selected speaker or the vicinity of the attraction.

15. A control system for controlling the transmission of an audio track in a three-dimensional (3D) space, the control system comprising: at least one processor; as well as a memory coupled to the at least one processor, wherein the at least one processor is configured to: detecting emission of a first audio track via one or more speakers of a plurality of speakers, wherein the first audio track is associated with an attraction; selecting a speaker from the plurality of speakers; determining whether the selected speaker is within a predetermined distance from the point of interest; If the selected speaker is within the predetermined distance from the point of interest, determining whether the selected speaker is emitting a second audio track different from the first audio track; and If the selected speaker is not emitting the second audio track, controlling the emission of the first audio track via the selected speaker.

16. The control system of claim 15, wherein: The speakers chosen are: a speaker included in the one or more speakers emitting the first audio track; or A speaker separate from the one or more speakers that transmit the first audio track.

17. The control system of claim 15, wherein: The at least one processor configured to control the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker is configured to: determining a proximity of the selected speaker to the point of interest; as well as A volume of a selected speaker for transmitting the first audio track is set based on the proximity.

18. The control system of claim 17, wherein: The at least one processor configured to control the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker is configured to: determining whether the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker interferes with the transmission of another audio track; and If the transmission of the first audio track interferes with the transmission of the other audio track, the volume of the selected speaker used to transmit the first audio track is reduced or the selected speaker is disabled.

19. The control system of claim 17, wherein: The at least one processor configured to control the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker is configured to: determining whether the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker causes an echo and / or reverberation through the selected speaker; as well as If the transmission of the first audio track causes the echo and / or reverberation, the volume of the selected speaker used to transmit the first audio track is reduced or the selected speaker is disabled.

20. The control system of claim 17, wherein: The at least one processor configured to control the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker is configured to: determining whether noise levels in a vicinity of the selected speaker or the attraction interfere with the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker; increasing the volume of the selected speaker used to transmit the first audio track if the noise level interferes with the transmission of the first audio track; as well as If the noise level does not interfere with the transmission of the first audio track, maintaining the volume of the selected speaker used to transmit the first audio track.

21. The control system of claim 20, wherein: The at least one processor configured to control the transmission of the first audio track via the selected speaker is configured to: If the noise level interferes with the transmission of the first audio track, the first audio track is transmitted via at least one speaker that is not in the selected speaker or the vicinity of the attraction.

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