Audio digital processing method for hearing-impaired people in natural environment

Abstract

The invention discloses an audio digital processing method for hearing-impaired people in a natural environment, and belongs to the technical field of audio digitization. The invention relates to an audio digital processing method for hearing-impaired people, and aims to provide a method for processing hearing test data through a digital signal processing technology in a natural environment, so that a digital audio output signal reaches an equilibrium state in a range of 20Hz to 20000Hz. According to the method, an audio signal in a natural environment is collected through a microphone and is converted into a digital signal, and the digital audio is subjected to equalization processing, so that the hearing experience of hearing-impaired people and the perception and understanding of the hearing-impaired people on sound in the environment are improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of audio digitization, and in particular to an audio digitization processing method for hearing-impaired people in a natural environment. Background Art

[0002] In modern society, people with hearing impairments face many challenges in life and learning, one of which is communication with the environment. They may have difficulty accurately understanding and interpreting the sound information in the environment, which may cause them to miss important auditory cues in daily life or face difficulties in communication. Therefore, developing a technology that can assist people with hearing impairments in understanding and perceiving environmental sounds is of great significance to improving their quality of life.

[0003] In recent years, with the rapid development of digital signal processing technology and artificial intelligence, audio processing technology has also made significant progress. These technologies make it possible to develop audio processing methods specifically for the hearing impaired. By combining knowledge from fields such as signal processing, machine learning, and cognitive psychology, audio processing solutions that better meet the needs of the hearing impaired can be designed.

[0004] Traditional audio processing methods mainly focus on improving the clarity and fidelity of audio signals, but rarely consider the special needs of specific user groups. Due to the limitations of cognitive ability, hearing-impaired people may have different requirements for the processing and understanding of audio signals. For example, they may need to highlight the speech part so that they can more easily capture and understand key information; or they may need to extract and highlight specific sounds in the environment to help them better perceive and understand the surrounding environment. To this end, we propose an audio digital processing method for hearing-impaired people in a natural environment to solve the above problems. Summary of the invention

[0005] The purpose of the present invention is to solve the above problems in the prior art and to propose an audio digitization processing method for hearing-impaired people in a natural environment.

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, the present invention adopts the following technical solutions:

[0007] A method for digital processing of audio for hearing-impaired people in a natural environment, comprising an audio acquisition device, pre-processing hardware, specific processing hardware or software, an output device and a user interface and control;

[0008] The audio acquisition device includes a microphone and an ADC (analog-to-digital converter), and the microphone is connected to an input of the ADC via a cable or a connector.

[0009] Preferably, the preprocessing hardware includes a filter, a noise reduction circuit or algorithm and a gain adjuster, wherein the filter is a physical or digital filter for removing or reducing unnecessary frequency components, the noise reduction circuit or algorithm reduces the impact of background noise, and the gain adjuster adjusts the strength of the audio signal.

[0010] Preferably, the specific processing hardware or software includes DSP (digital signal processor) or FPGA (field programmable gate array): used to implement complex audio processing algorithms, such as enhancing voice frequency, extracting key information, etc., dedicated audio processing software: software running on a general-purpose computer, used to implement specific audio processing.

[0011] Preferably, the output device comprises a DAC (digital-to-analog converter) for converting the processed digital audio signal back into an analog signal, and a speaker or earphone for playing the processed audio signal for the hearing-impaired to perceive and understand.

[0012] Preferably, the auxiliary device comprises an amplifier for enhancing the strength of the audio signal, especially when a speaker is used, and a power supply and a battery for providing the required power for the above device.

[0013] Preferably, the user interface and controls include buttons, a touch screen or other input device to allow the hearing impaired to interact with the system, and a display screen or LED indicator lights to provide visual feedback.

[0014] Compared with the prior art, the present invention provides a method for digitalizing audio for hearing-impaired people in a natural environment, which has the following beneficial effects:

[0015] 1. Improve speech clarity and audibility

[0016] By using advanced audio acquisition equipment and pre-processing hardware, this method can effectively remove or reduce unnecessary frequency components, reduce background noise interference, and adjust the strength of the audio signal. These measures work together to make the voice information clearer and easier to recognize, thus helping the hearing-impaired to better understand and perceive the voice content.

[0017] 2. Personalized audio processing

[0018] The specific processing hardware or software in this method can perform personalized audio processing according to the different needs of the hearing-impaired. For example, by enhancing speech frequencies or extracting key information, this method can help the hearing-impaired to more easily obtain and understand key content. This personalized processing method helps to improve the quality of life and social skills of the hearing-impaired.

[0019] 3. Diversified output methods

[0020] This method uses a variety of output devices, such as speakers, headphones, etc., to meet the needs of different hearing-impaired people. At the same time, the processed digital audio signal is converted back to an analog signal through a digital-to-analog converter to ensure the stability and reliability of the audio quality. This diverse output method allows the hearing-impaired to choose the appropriate output method according to their preferences and needs, thereby obtaining a better audio experience.

[0021] 4. Easy to operate and maintain

[0022] The user interface and control design of the method are concise and easy to operate and maintain. Through input devices such as buttons and touch screens, the hearing-impaired can easily interact with the system; while the display or LED indicator provides clear visual feedback to help the hearing-impaired better understand the operating status of the system. In addition, the hardware and software design of the method also fully considers ease of use and maintainability, allowing the hearing-impaired and their caregivers to easily get started and use it for a long time.

[0023] 5. Promote social integration and communication

[0024] By providing clear and easy-to-understand audio information, this method helps the hearing-impaired better integrate into society and communicate with others. Whether in home, school or community environments, this method can provide hearing-impaired people with a more convenient and efficient way to communicate, helping them better connect with others, share information and express themselves. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below in combination with the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, rather than all the embodiments.

[0026] In the description of the present invention, it is necessary to understand that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "back", "left", "right", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", etc., indicating the orientation or position relationship are based on the orientation or position relationship shown, and are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as a limitation on the present invention.

[0027] Example 1

[0028] A method for digital processing of audio for hearing-impaired people in a natural environment, including an audio acquisition device, pre-processing hardware, specific processing hardware or software, an output device, and a user interface and control;

[0029] The audio acquisition device includes a microphone and an ADC (analog-to-digital converter), and the microphone is connected to the input of the ADC via a cable or a connector.

[0030] In this embodiment, the preprocessing hardware includes a filter, a noise reduction circuit or algorithm, and a gain adjuster. The filter is a physical or digital filter used to remove or reduce unnecessary frequency components. The noise reduction circuit or algorithm reduces the impact of background noise. The gain adjuster adjusts the strength of the audio signal.

[0031] In this embodiment, the specific processing hardware or software includes DSP (digital signal processor) or FPGA (field programmable gate array): used to implement complex audio processing algorithms, such as enhancing voice frequency, extracting key information, etc., dedicated audio processing software: software running on a general-purpose computer, used to implement specific audio processing.

[0032] In this embodiment, the output device includes a DAC (digital-to-analog converter) for converting the processed digital audio signal back into an analog signal, and a speaker or earphone for playing the processed audio signal for the hearing-impaired to perceive and understand.

[0033] In this embodiment, the auxiliary device includes an amplifier for enhancing the strength of the audio signal, especially when a speaker is used, and a power supply and a battery for providing the required power for the above-mentioned devices.

[0034] In this embodiment, the user interface and controls include buttons, touch screens or other input devices: allowing the hearing impaired to interact with the system, and display screens or LED indicators: providing visual feedback.

[0035] Specifically,

[0036] System design and planning:

[0037] Develop a detailed design plan based on the needs and desired outcomes for the hearing impaired. Identify the required audio acquisition, processing, output, and user interface components.

[0038] Hardware selection:

[0039] According to the design plan, select appropriate hardware such as microphone, ADC, DSP (or FPGA), DAC, speaker, etc. Make sure the selected hardware has sufficient performance and reliability.

[0040] Hardware Connection:

[0041] Connect the microphone to the input of the ADC using the appropriate cables and connectors.

[0042] Connect the output of the ADC to the input of the DSP (or FPGA).

[0043] Connect the output of the DSP (or FPGA) to the input of the DAC.

[0044] Connect the output of the DAC to the input of the speaker.

[0045] If a user interface is required, connect input devices such as buttons, touch screens, etc. to the DSP (or FPGA) or control unit.

[0046] Connect the display or LED indicator to the output of the DSP (or FPGA) or control unit.

[0047] Software Programming:

[0048] Based on the design plan, write the audio processing algorithm and implement it on the DSP (or FPGA). Write the user interface control code to process user input and provide feedback. If necessary, write the driver to communicate with the hardware.

[0049] System Testing:

[0050] After all the hardware is connected and the software is written, perform a system test. Test that the audio acquisition, processing, output, and user interface functions are working properly. Adjust the hardware settings and software code based on the test results.

[0051] Optimization and debugging:

[0052] Based on test results and user feedback, the system is optimized and debugged. The audio processing algorithm is adjusted to improve voice quality and accuracy of key information extraction. The user interface is adjusted to improve ease of use and accessibility.

[0053] Final integration and deployment:

[0054] After all optimization and debugging are completed, the system is integrated into a complete product. The product is deployed in the environment used by the hearing-impaired and a final test is performed. Necessary training and support are provided to ensure that the hearing-impaired can effectively use the system.

[0055] Furthermore,

[0056] Portability: Considering that hearing-impaired people may need to use it in different environments, the device needs to be designed to be lightweight and easy to carry.

[0057] Durability: The device needs to be able to withstand the wear and tear of everyday use and accidental bumps.

[0058] Safety: Make sure the device is safe for the hearing-impaired, with no sharp edges or small parts that could be easily swallowed.

[0059] The following is a specific implementation method of the audio digitization processing method for hearing-impaired people in a natural environment:

[0060] 1. System composition

[0061] Audio capture equipment

[0062] Microphone: Responsible for collecting various sounds that the hearing-impaired may be exposed to in the natural environment, including language, environmental sounds, etc.

[0063] ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter): Converts the analog audio signal collected by the microphone into a digital signal for subsequent digital processing.

[0064] Connection method: The microphone is connected to the input of the ADC through a cable or connector to ensure stable signal transmission.

[0065] Preprocessing Hardware

[0066] Filter (physical or digital): used to remove or reduce unwanted frequency components, such as noise, hum, etc., to improve audio clarity.

[0067] Noise reduction circuit or algorithm: reduces the impact of background noise, making speech or key information more prominent.

[0068] Gain adjuster: adjust the gain of the audio signal as needed to ensure the signal strength is moderate.

[0069] Specific processing hardware or software

[0070] DSP (digital signal processor) or FPGA (field programmable gate array): used to implement complex audio processing algorithms, such as enhancing voice frequencies, extracting key information, etc.

[0071] Dedicated audio processing software: software that runs on general-purpose computers and is used to implement specific audio processing, such as speech recognition, keyword extraction, etc.

[0072] Output Devices

[0073] DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter): Converts the processed digital audio signal back to an analog signal.

[0074] Speakers or headphones: used to play the processed audio signals for the hearing-impaired to perceive and understand.

[0075] Auxiliary equipment

[0076] Amplifier: Used to increase the strength of an audio signal, especially when using speakers.

[0077] Power supply and battery: Provide the necessary power for the above devices to ensure the continuous operation of the system.

[0078] User Interface and Controls

[0079] Buttons, touch screens, or other input devices: Allow the hearing-impaired to interact with the system, such as adjusting volume, selecting functions, etc.

[0080] Display or LED indicators: Provide visual feedback to help users understand the operating status of the system or the selected function.

[0081] 2. Implementation Process

[0082] Audio acquisition: The microphone collects audio signals in the natural environment and converts them into digital signals through ADC.

[0083] Preprocessing: The digital signal is preprocessed through filters, noise reduction circuits or algorithms and gain adjusters to improve the audio quality.

[0084] Specific processing: DSP or FPGA, or dedicated audio processing software performs specific processing on audio signals, such as enhancing speech, extracting key information, etc.

[0085] Output: The processed audio signal is converted into an analog signal by the DAC and played to the hearing-impaired through speakers or headphones.

[0086] User interaction: The hearing-impaired can interact with the system through input devices such as buttons and touch screens to adjust settings or select functions. At the same time, the display or LED indicator provides necessary visual feedback.

[0087] Through the above-mentioned specific implementation methods, the audio digital processing method is intended to help the hearing-impaired people better perceive and understand the sound information in the natural environment, and improve their quality of life and ability to integrate into society.

[0088] Example 2

[0089] Detailed explanation of audio digitization processing methods for hearing-impaired people in natural environments

[0090] 1. Introduction

[0091] With the continuous development of science and technology, intelligent and digital technologies play an increasingly important role in daily life. For the hearing-impaired, they may face some challenges that are different from ordinary people, such as language understanding and information acquisition. Therefore, it is particularly important to develop a set of audio digital processing methods suitable for the hearing-impaired. This article aims to introduce an audio digital processing method for the hearing-impaired in a natural environment, and through detailed explanations, help readers better understand and apply this method.

[0092] 2. Audio Capture Equipment

[0093] The audio acquisition device is the first step in the entire digital processing process. It includes a microphone and an ADC (analog-to-digital converter). The microphone is responsible for capturing sound signals in the environment, while the ADC converts these analog signals into digital signals for subsequent processing. The microphone and ADC are connected by cables or connectors to ensure stable signal transmission.

[0094] 3. Preprocessing Hardware

[0095] Preprocessing hardware is a device or component that performs preliminary processing on the collected audio signal. It mainly includes filters, noise reduction circuits or algorithms, and gain adjusters.

[0096] Filter: Whether it is a physical filter or a digital filter, its main purpose is to remove or reduce the unwanted frequency components in the audio signal. For example, a low-pass filter can remove high-frequency noise, while a high-pass filter can remove low-frequency interference.

[0097] Noise reduction circuit or algorithm: Noise reduction circuit or algorithm is used to reduce the impact of background noise and improve the audibility of speech. This is especially important for the hearing-impaired because they may be more easily disturbed by external noise.

[0098] Gain adjuster: Gain adjuster is used to adjust the strength of audio signal to ensure that the signal is not distorted during transmission and processing. For the hearing impaired, appropriate signal strength helps them better perceive and understand speech information.

[0099] 4. Specific processing hardware or software

[0100] Specific processing hardware or software is the core part of audio digitization processing, which is responsible for complex processing of audio signals.

[0101] DSP or FPGA: DSP (digital signal processor) or FPGA (field programmable gate array) is an important tool for implementing complex audio processing algorithms. For example, through DSP or FPGA, you can enhance the voice frequency to make the voice clearer; or extract key information to help the hearing-impaired better understand and remember.

[0102] Dedicated audio processing software: Dedicated audio processing software runs on general-purpose computers, which can implement specific audio processing, such as speech recognition, speech synthesis, etc. These software usually have rich functions and flexible parameter settings to meet the needs of different hearing-impaired people.

[0103] 5. Output Devices

[0104] The output device is the device that presents the processed audio signal to the hearing-impaired. It mainly includes DAC (digital-to-analog converter) and speakers or headphones.

[0105] DAC: The DAC converts the processed digital audio signal back into an analog signal so that it can be played by speakers or headphones.

[0106] Speakers or headphones: Speakers or headphones are used to play processed audio signals for the hearing-impaired to perceive and understand. Choosing the right speakers or headphones can ensure clear audio quality and moderate volume, helping the hearing-impaired to better obtain and process voice information.

[0107] 6. Auxiliary equipment

[0108] Auxiliary devices are used to enhance the transmission and playback of audio signals.

[0109] Amplifier: Amplifiers are used to increase the strength of audio signals, especially when using speakers. This helps ensure that the audio signal is transmitted clearly to the ears of people with hearing impairments.

[0110] Power supply and battery: The power supply and battery provide the necessary power for the above devices to ensure the continuous and stable operation of the system.

[0111] VII. User Interface and Controls

[0112] The user interface and control section allows the hearing-impaired to interact with the system and thus better use the audio digitizing processing equipment.

[0113] Buttons, touch screens, or other input devices: These input devices allow hearing-impaired people to easily control the system, such as adjusting the volume, selecting functions, etc.

[0114] Display or LED indicator: The display or LED indicator provides visual feedback to help the hearing-impaired understand the system's operating status or selected functions.

[0115] 8. Conclusion

[0116] This paper introduces a method for audio digitization processing for the hearing-impaired in a natural environment. Through the collaborative work of audio acquisition equipment, preprocessing hardware, specific processing hardware or software, output devices, and user interface and control components, this method can help the hearing-impaired better perceive and understand the speech information in the environment. With the continuous advancement of technology and the expansion of application scenarios, this method is expected to bring more convenience and fun to the lives of the hearing-impaired.

[0117] The above are only preferred specific implementation modes of the present invention, but the protection scope of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any technician familiar with the technical field can make equivalent replacements or changes according to the technical solutions and inventive concepts of the present invention within the technical scope disclosed by the present invention, which should be covered by the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for digitalizing audio for hearing-impaired people in a natural environment, comprising an audio acquisition device, pre-processing hardware, specific processing hardware or software, an output device, and a user interface and control; in, The audio acquisition device includes a microphone and an ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter), and the microphone is connected to an input of the ADC via a cable or a connector.

2. The method for digitalizing audio for hearing-impaired people in a natural environment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The preprocessing hardware includes a filter, a noise reduction circuit or algorithm and a gain adjuster. The filter is a physical or digital filter used to remove or reduce unnecessary frequency components. The noise reduction circuit or algorithm reduces the impact of background noise. The gain adjuster adjusts the strength of the audio signal.

3. The method for digitalizing audio for hearing-impaired people in a natural environment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The specific processing hardware or software includes DSP (digital signal processor) or FPGA (field programmable gate array): used to implement complex audio processing algorithms, such as enhancing voice frequency, extracting key information, etc., dedicated audio processing software: software running on a general-purpose computer, used to implement specific audio processing.

4. The method for digitalizing audio for hearing-impaired people in a natural environment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The output device includes a DAC (digital-to-analog converter) for converting the processed digital audio signal back into an analog signal, and a speaker or earphone for playing the processed audio signal for the hearing-impaired to perceive and understand.

5. The method for digitalizing audio for hearing-impaired people in a natural environment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The auxiliary equipment includes an amplifier: used to enhance the strength of the audio signal, especially when using a speaker, a power supply and a battery: to provide the required power for the above equipment.

6. The method for digitalizing audio for hearing-impaired people in a natural environment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The user interface and controls include buttons, touch screens or other input devices: allowing the hearing impaired to interact with the system, and display screens or LED indicators: providing visual feedback.