Electronic device, method, and non-transitory storage medium for compensating for external sound

Abstract

The present document relates to an electronic device and a method for compensating for an external sound. According to an embodiment, the electronic device may comprise: a plurality of microphones; an audio module; a memory; and at least one processor operatively connected to the plurality of microphones, the audio module, and the memory. According to an embodiment, the at least one processor of the electronic device may be configured to: obtain user context information and an external sound; and on the basis of the type of the user context information and the type of the external sound, execute an ambient sound listening mode and compensate for the external sound, wherein the at least one processor is configured to control the audio module to output the compensated external sound. Other embodiments are also possible.

Description

Electronic device, method and non-transitory storage medium for compensating external sound

[0001] This document relates to an electronic device, method and non-transitory storage medium for compensating external sounds.

[0002] Recently, the use of portable electronic devices such as smartphones, tablet PCs, and wearable devices has increased. As the use of electronic devices has rapidly increased, wearable electronic devices are also being developed to improve portability and user accessibility. An example of such electronic devices is a wearable electronic device. A wearable electronic device can transmit voice data to an external electronic device, and the external electronic device can transmit audio data (or audio content) to the wearable electronic device. The wearable electronic device can output the audio data (or audio content) received from the external electronic device through a speaker. For example, a wearable electronic device can be implemented in a form that can be attached to a part of the body or clothing, such as a true wireless stereo (TWS) device (e.g., wireless earphones) or a head-mounted device (HMD).

[0003] Wireless earphones utilizing wireless communication technologies (e.g., Bluetooth) have become widely used recently. Furthermore, wireless earphones that incorporate multiple microphones are becoming increasingly popular to enhance their performance.

[0004] According to one embodiment of the present document, an electronic device may include a plurality of microphones, an audio module, a memory, and at least one processor operatively connected to the plurality of microphones, the audio module, and the memory.

[0005] According to one embodiment, the memory may store instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to obtain user context information and external sounds.

[0006] According to one embodiment, the memory may store instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to execute an ambient sound listening mode and compensate for external sounds based on a type of the user context information and a type of the external sound.

[0007] According to one embodiment, the memory may store instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to control the audio module to output the compensated external sound.

[0008] According to one embodiment, the method may include an operation of executing an ambient sound listening mode and compensating for external sounds based on a type of the user context information and a type of the external sound.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the method may include controlling an audio module of the electronic device to output the corrected external sound.

[0010] According to one embodiment, a non-transitory storage medium storing one or more programs may include instructions that, when executed by a processor of an electronic device, cause the electronic device to perform operations for obtaining user context information and external sounds.

[0011] According to one embodiment, a non-transitory storage medium storing one or more programs may include a command that, when executed by a processor of an electronic device, causes the electronic device to execute an ambient sound listening mode and an operation of compensating for external sounds based on a type of the user context information and a type of the external sounds.

[0012] According to one embodiment, a non-transitory storage medium storing one or more programs may include commands that, when executed by a processor of an electronic device, cause the electronic device to execute an operation of controlling an audio module of the electronic device to output the corrected external sound.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an electronic device and an external electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIGS. 4A and 4B are diagrams illustrating examples for compensating external sounds in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example for compensating for external sound in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIGS. 6A and 6B are diagrams showing examples for compensating external sounds in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example for compensating for external sound in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing an example of an operating method in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing an example of an operating method in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing an example of an operating method in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0023] In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components.

[0024] Hereinafter, electronic devices according to various embodiments will be described with reference to the attached drawings. The term "user" used in various embodiments may refer to a person using an electronic device or a device (e.g., an artificial intelligence electronic device) using an electronic device.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 1, in the network environment (100), the electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0026] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or calculations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or a secondary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor)) that can operate independently or together therewith. For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and a secondary processor (123), the secondary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a specified function. The secondary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0027] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0028] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0029] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0030] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0031] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0032] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. In one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0033] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0034] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0035] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0036] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0037] A haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. In one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0038] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0039] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented, for example, as at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0040] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0041] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0042] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for realizing 1eMBB, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for realizing mMTC, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for realizing URLLC.

[0043] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the at least one selected antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0044] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0045] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

[0046] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0047] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing an electronic device and an external electronic device according to one embodiment, and FIG. 3 is a drawing showing a configuration of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0048] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3 , an electronic device (201) according to one embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (102 or 104) of FIG. 1 ) may be a wearable device implemented as a pair (or both) of earphones (e.g., earbuds) or headphones that can be worn on each of a user's ears. The electronic device (201) according to one embodiment may form a communication link (e.g., a communication link using Bluetooth communication technology) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1 ). The electronic device (201) may transmit and / or receive sound-related data to and from the external electronic device (101) via the communication link. For example, the external electronic device (101) may be implemented as a smartphone. For convenience of explanation, this document describes the configuration of one earphone among a pair of earphones as the configuration of an electronic device (201), but the technical characteristics of the electronic device (201) can be equally applied to the other earphone among the pair.

[0049] An electronic device (201) according to one embodiment may include a plurality of microphones (or microphones) (210), a processor (220), an audio module (230), a speaker (240), a memory (250), a sensor module (260), and a communication module (270). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (201) may convert data received from an external electronic device (101) into sound, and output the converted sound (e.g., audio content, music, phone sound (ringtone), or call sound (voice)) through the speaker (240). When outputting the sound converted from data received from the external electronic device (101), the electronic device (201) may block external sound (e.g., ambient sound) (e.g., disable the ambient sound listening function) so that the sound can be heard in a quiet state. The electronic device (201) can receive external sounds generated in the user's external environment through microphones (210) while outputting sounds converted from data received from an external electronic device (101), and can activate (on) an ambient sound listening function to control or correct the received ambient sounds and output the external sounds through speakers (240).

[0050] According to one embodiment, the plurality of microphones (210) of the electronic device (201) may include at least one microphone that is connected to an outer (e.g., outer ear) hole of each earphone of the electronic device (201) when worn on the user's ear to receive external sounds generated in the external surroundings, and a microphone that is connected to an inner (e.g., inner ear) hole when worn on the user's ear.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the processor (220) of the electronic device (201) can control the overall operation of the electronic device (201) and can be implemented as one or more processors. The processor (220) can be implemented in the same or similar manner as the processor (120) of FIG. 1.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the processor (220) may acquire a voice signal spoken by a user and / or external sounds generated in an external environment received through a plurality of microphones (210). According to one embodiment, the processor (220) may acquire user context information. According to one embodiment, the processor (220) may control the audio module (230) to process a voice signal and / or external sounds input through a plurality of microphones (210).

[0053] According to one embodiment, the processor (220) may activate the ambient sound listening function of the electronic device (201) based on user context information and external sounds. At this time, the processor (220) may directly activate the ambient sound listening function without receiving a control signal for activating the ambient sound listening function from the electronic device (201). Without being limited thereto, according to one embodiment, the processor (220) may activate the ambient sound listening function based on a control signal of the external electronic device (101).

[0054] According to one embodiment, the processor (220) can identify the type of user context information and the type of external sound, correct the external sound to be output based on the type of user context information and the type of external sound, and control the audio module to output the corrected external sound.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the processor (220) may control at least one other component (e.g., hardware or software component) of the electronic device (201) connected to the processor (220) by executing software, for example, and may perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (220) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., sensor module (260) or communication module (270)) in the memory (250), process the commands or data stored in the memory (250), and store result data in the memory (250).

[0056] According to one embodiment, the audio module (230) may process input signals from a plurality of microphones (210) under the control of the processor (220) and output processed output signals for the user to hear through the speaker (240).

[0057] According to one embodiment, the speaker (240) is an output device that outputs sound, and may include a first channel that outputs sound based on a signal received from an external electronic device (101) and a second channel that outputs ambient sound of the electronic device (201). The first channel and the second channel may refer to different channels. According to one embodiment, the processor (220) may output sound through the first channel and output ambient sound of the wearable electronic device (201) through the second channel.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the memory (30) can store information related to the operation of the electronic device (201), data on voice or ambient sound input through microphones (210), and voice data received from an external electronic device (101).

[0059] According to one embodiment, the communication module (270) may be configured to perform a wireless communication function between the electronic device (201) and the external electronic device (101). The communication module (270) may transmit data on voice and / or ambient sound input from the electronic device (201) to the external electronic device (101) using a short-range communication method. As an example, the short-range communication method may include at least one of Bluetooth, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), IrDA (Infrared Data Association), or wireless LAN.

[0060] FIGS. 4A and 4B are diagrams illustrating examples for compensating external sounds in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 2, 3, 4a, and 4b, the processor (220) of the electronic device (201) according to one embodiment may obtain user context information from the external electronic device (101) using at least one sensor included in the communication module (270) and / or the sensor module (260), and identify the type of the user context information. The user context information may include at least one of location information or behavior pattern information (e.g., physical behavior and / or activity state). The location information may be obtained from the external electronic device (101) using a Global Positioning System (GPS) or an application that uses location information (e.g., a navigation, delivery application, or shopping application). The movement information may be obtained using an acceleration sensor included in the sensor module (260) of the electronic device (201), or may be obtained using at least one sensor (e.g., an acceleration sensor) or a camera of the external electronic device (101). The behavior pattern information may be obtained using at least one of an acceleration sensor or a microphone included in a sensor module (260) of the electronic device (201), or may be obtained using at least one of a sensor (e.g., an acceleration sensor), a microphone, a camera, or a running application of the external electronic device (101).

[0062] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may acquire external sounds from the surroundings of the electronic device (201) through at least one microphone among a plurality of microphones (210) and identify the type of the external sounds. The external sounds may be sounds generated from the surroundings of the electronic device (201), and the types of the external sounds may be divided into a first type representing voices and a second type representing sounds other than voices. For example, the first type may include sounds corresponding to pre-designated words (e.g., sounds of an unspecified person calling a user or a sound requesting help) or guidance broadcasts. For example, the second type may include at least one of alarm sounds (e.g., fire alarm sounds, disaster alarm sounds, or ambulance sounds), bell sounds (e.g., disembarkation sounds, doorbells, or vibration bells), sounds generated from surrounding objects (e.g., sounds of transportation such as cars, bicycles, motorcycles, or kickboards), or sounds for other notifications.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) can set different correction conditions for correcting external sounds according to the type of user context information and the type of external sounds, as shown in and below. The correction conditions described in this document are not limited to the examples set as shown in and below, and can be set as various correction conditions according to the type of behavioral pattern information (e.g., physical behavior and / or activity state) or the type of external sounds.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may set at least one correction condition corresponding to the behavior pattern information (e.g., physical behavior and / or activity state) and the type of external sound when the user context information is first user context information (e.g., outdoor user context information), as shown in Table 1 below. The at least one correction condition may be preset based on the type of user context information and the type of external sound and stored in the memory (250). The at least one correction condition may be set to include at least one of active noise cancellation (ANC) levels (e.g., low, mid, and high), an equalizer (EQ) (e.g., voice EQ or alarm EQ (alarm EQ2)), noise removal (e.g., 5 step NS), forward beamforming (front BF), amplifying (e.g., lower amp. or high amp.), or a transition time (fade in-out time) of an ambient sound listening function (e.g., 0.5, 1, or 2).

[0065] LocationPhysical behaviorActivity statusType of external soundExternal sound correction conditionsInternal sound correctionOutdoor (street)MoveMove to a place by walkingSounds calling me, sounds asking for helpANC: midEQ: Voice EQ, Noise reduction: 5 step NS, Front beamforming (front BF): ○Fade in-out time: 1Decrease audio volumeCrossing a crosswalkSounds of vehiclesANC: lowEQ: Alarm EQ, Noise reduction: 5 step NS, Fade in-out time: 0.5Run to a placeSounds of vehiclesANC: midEQ: Alarm EQ, Noise reduction: 5 step NS, Front beamforming (front BF): ○Fade in-out time: 1Go to a place by bicycleSounds of vehiclesANC: lowEQ: Alarm EQ, Noise reduction: 5 step NS, Amplification: lower amp. Fade in-out time: 0.5StopWaiting for public transportation, at a store Order / PaymentCalling meANC: lowEQ: Voice EQ, Noise reduction: 5 step NS, Front Beamforming (front BF): ○Fade in-out time: 1Decrease audio volumeSitSit on a benchANC: highExerciseJoggingTransportation soundsANC: lowEQ: Alarm EQ, Noise reduction: 5 step NS, Amplification: lower amp.Fade in-out time: 0.5Outdoor (Transportation)Taking a bus, taking a subway / train, taking an airplane, taking a cruise / shipAnnouncementANC: midEQ: Voice EQ, Noise reduction: 5 step NS, Front Beamforming (front BF): ○Fade in-out time: 1Getting off soundANC: midEQ: Alarm EQ, Noise reduction: 5 step NS, Fade in-out time: 0.5

[0066] According to one embodiment, when the processor (220) identifies first user context information (e.g., outdoor user context information), the processor (220) may identify behavior pattern information and the type of external sound included in the first user context information, activate (on) an ambient sound listening function, correct the external sound based on at least one correction condition set as in , and output the corrected external sound. According to one embodiment, the processor (220) may correct an internal sound (e.g., audio output level) based on specific behavior pattern information (e.g., moving or standing) and the type of external sound being the first type (e.g., a sound calling me), as in .

[0067] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 4A, the processor (220) may determine the occurrence of an event for external sound compensation by acquiring first user context information and a second type of external sound (e.g., at least one of an alarm sound, a bell sound, or a sound generated from an object in the surroundings) while the ambient sound listening function is running. Upon occurrence of the event, the processor (220) may identify an activity state according to the user's movement (e.g., the user is walking down the street or crossing a crosswalk) based on behavior pattern information included in the first user context information, and may identify, based on the second type of external sound, that the external sound is, for example, an alarm sound having a loud volume greater than a second threshold value. The processor (220) can adjust the active noise canceling (ANC) level to a first level (e.g., low level) or a second level (e.g., reference level or medium level) when the user is in an active state according to movement and the volume of the alarm sound is above a second threshold, and compensate for external sounds by using a second equalizer (e.g., alarm EQ) to offset sounds of a specific frequency band to alleviate loud and sharp sounds.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the processor (220) identifies a state in which a user is walking down the street based on behavior pattern information, and if it identifies that the acquired external sound is a first type of external sound (e.g., a sound calling me or a sound requesting help such as “help me”), it can automatically activate (ON) an ambient sound listening function (or mode) so that the user can ventilate the surroundings, and compensate for the external sound based on a specified compensation condition (e.g., ANC: mid, EQ: Voice EQ, noise cancellation: 5step NS, front beamforming (front BF): ○, Fade in-out time: 1). The processor (220) identifies that the user is in a standing state (e.g., waiting for public transportation or ordering / paying at a store) based on behavior pattern information, and if it identifies that the acquired external sound is a first type of external sound (e.g., a sound calling me or a sound asking for help), it can automatically activate (ON) the ambient sound listening function (or mode) so that the user can ventilate the surroundings, and can compensate for the external sound based on the specified compensation conditions (e.g., ANC: low, EQ: Voice EQ, Noise cancellation: 5step NS, Front Beamforming (front BF): ○, Fade in-out time: 1). When the user is in a walking or standing state (e.g., waiting for public transportation or ordering / paying at a store), the type of external sound is a first type (e.g., a sound calling me or a sound asking for help), and is listening to audio, the processor (220) can compensate for the external sound based on the specified compensation conditions while also compensating for the internal sound (e.g., reducing the audio volume).

[0069] According to one embodiment, the processor (220) identifies that the user is riding a bus based on behavior pattern information, and when identifying a second type of external sound, for example, the sound of getting off the bus, automatically activates (on) the ambient sound listening mode (or function) and compensates for the external sound based on specified compensation conditions (e.g., ANC: mid, EQ: Alarm EQ, noise cancellation: 5step NS, Fade in-out time: 0.5).

[0070] According to one embodiment, the processor (220) may identify, for example, based on behavior pattern information, that the user is walking or moving from place to place by bicycle, and if the processor (220) identifies a low sound of a means of transportation (e.g., an electric kickboard) as a second type of external sound, amplify the external sound to alert the user of danger by adjusting the sound of the means of transportation to be louder, and compensate for the external sound based on specified compensation conditions (e.g., ANC: low, EQ: Alarm EQ, noise cancellation: 5step NS, Fade in-out time: 0.5).

[0071] According to one embodiment, the processor (220) may, for example, identify that the user is running in a park based on behavior pattern information and external sounds, and if it identifies the sound of a bicycle horn, it may compensate for the external sounds based on specified compensation conditions (e.g., ANC: low, EQ: Alarm EQ, Noise cancellation: 5step NS, Amplification: lower amp, Fade in-out time: 0.5) so that the user can detect danger by hearing the surrounding sounds.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may set at least one correction condition corresponding to the behavior pattern information (e.g., physical behavior and / or activity state) and the type of external sound when the user context information is second user context information (e.g., indoor user context information), as shown in Table 2 below. The at least one correction condition may be set to include at least one of active noise cancellation (ANC) levels (e.g., low, mid, and high), equalizers (EQs) (e.g., voice EQ, alarm EQ1, or alarm EQ2), noise removal (e.g., 5 step NS), front beamforming (front BF), amplifying (e.g., lower amp. or high amp.), or fade in-out time (e.g., 0.5, 1, or 2) of the ambient sound listening function.

[0073] LocationPhysical behaviorActivity statusType of external soundExternal sound correction conditionsInternal sound correctionIndoor (home)MoveCleanVacuum cleaner soundANC: midMove placeA sound calling meEQ: Voice EQ, Noise cancellation: 5 step NS, Front beam forming (front BF): ○Fade in-out time: 1Decrease audio volumeDoor bellEQ: Alarm EQ, 2Noise cancellation: 5 step NS, Fade in-out time: 0.5Sit / lie downStudy, eat, restA sound calling meANC: lowEQ: Voice EQ, Noise cancellation: 5 step NS, Front beam forming (front BF): ○Fade in-out time: 1Decrease audio volumeFire alarm soundEQ: Alarm EQ, 1Noise cancellation: 5 step NS, Fade in-out time: 0.5StandCookingSound of boiling waterAmplification: high amp.Fade in-out time: 0.5ExerciseYoga, Pilates, Indoor cycling, bodyweight exerciseA voice calling meEQ: Voice EQ, Noise reduction: 5 step NS, Front beamforming (front BF): ○Fade in-out time: 2Audio volume reductionOverallCall / video callFire alarm soundANC: lowEQ: Alarm EQ, 1 Noise reduction: 5 step NS, Fade in-out time: 0.5Indoors (office)MoveMove placeA voice calling meANC: midEQ: Voice EQ, Noise reduction: 5 step NS, Front beamforming (front BF): ○Fade in-out time: 1Audio volume reductionSitWorkA voice calling meANC: midEQ: Voice EQ, Noise reduction: 5 step NS, Front beamforming (front BF): ○Fade in-out time: 1Audio volume reductionEating, resting-ANC: high

[0074] According to one embodiment, when the processor (220) identifies second user context information (e.g., indoor user context information), the processor (220) can identify behavior pattern information and the type of external sound included in the second user context information, activate (on) the ambient sound listening function, correct the external sound based on at least one correction condition set as in Table 2, and control the audio module (230) to output the corrected external sound. According to one embodiment, the processor (220) can correct the internal sound (e.g., audio output level) while correcting the external sound based on specific behavior pattern information (e.g., moving, sitting / lying down, or exercising) and the type of external sound being the first type (e.g., a sound calling me), as in Table 2.

[0075] According to one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 4B, when a user is listening to music (e.g., ANC-LOW (listening to music)), if second user context information and a first type of external sound (e.g., a sound calling my name) are acquired, the processor (220) may identify the event as an event for compensation of external sounds acquired indoors. Upon identifying the event, the processor (220) may activate an ambient sound mode and switch the earphone mode of the electronic device (201) to a state in which a conversation can be had (e.g., conversational ambient boost). In the state in which a conversation can be had, the processor (220) may adjust the active noise canceling (ANC) level to off, a first level (e.g., low level), or a second level (e.g., reference level or intermediate level) based on a specified compensation condition, and may compensate for the external sounds by amplifying only the user's voice and the other party's voice using a first equalizer (voice EQ). The processor (220) can compensate for external sounds while also compensating for internal sounds (e.g., reducing audio volume).

[0076] According to one embodiment, the processor (220) may, for example, while relaxing at home while listening to a podcast, identify a sound of the other party calling, pause the podcast and activate (on) an ambient sound listening mode.

[0077] In one embodiment, the processor (220) may activate (turn on) the ambient sound listening mode when, for example, while exercising at a gym while listening to music, the processor (220) identifies a person calling out to the user from the side, saying "Excuse me." The processor (220) may compensate for external sounds while also compensating for internal sounds (e.g., reducing audio volume).

[0078] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example for compensating for external sound in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0079] Referring to FIGS. 2, 3, and 5, an electronic device (201) according to one embodiment may receive keyword information from an external electronic device (101) and store the keyword information in a memory (250). The electronic device (201) may output a voice or sound signal received from the external electronic device (e.g., making a call or listening to music). At this time, the electronic device (201) may disable the ambient sound listening mode (off) and execute the active noise canceling at a third level (e.g., high level) (e.g., executing the earphone mode) to block or remove external sounds by active noise canceling. Thereafter, when the electronic device (201) acquires an external sound, it may determine whether the acquired external sound is a sound that requires correction, and when it determines that the acquired external sound is a sound that requires correction, it may generate an event for correction of the external sound (e.g., a first event occurring outdoors or a second event occurring indoors). At this time, the external electronic device (101) can receive information related to the occurrence of an event from the electronic device (201) and display the information related to the occurrence of the event. The electronic device (201) can switch the ambient sound listening mode to on and adjust the level of active noise canceling to a first level (e.g., a low level) so that external sounds can be output by active noise canceling.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the electronic device (201) can identify the type of user context information and the type of external sound according to the occurrence of an event. For example, if the first user context information is the first type of external sound, which is a voice for conversation, the electronic device (201) can identify a correction condition (e.g., EQ: Voice EQ, noise cancellation: 5step NS, forward beamforming (front BF): ○, fade in-out time: 1 or 2) corresponding to the first user context information and the voice for conversation, and correct the external sound based on the identified correction condition. For example, the electronic device (201) can correct the voices for conversation input during the conversation according to the identified correction condition, while amplifying and correcting the user's voice and the other party's voice so that the user can clearly hear the conversation (AMP + voice EQ). At this time, active noise canceling can be deactivated (off).

[0081] In one embodiment, when the electronic device (201) determines that the conversation has ended, it can deactivate the ambient sound listening mode and activate active noise canceling (e.g., switch to earphone mode). The electronic device (201) can adjust the level of active noise canceling to a third level (e.g., high level) to block or eliminate external sounds through active noise canceling.

[0082] FIGS. 6A and 6B are diagrams illustrating examples for compensating external sound in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 2, 3, 6a and 6b, an electronic device (201) according to one embodiment can set or obtain keyword information necessary for compensation of external sounds when connected to an external electronic device (101) through a communication module (270).

[0084] According to one embodiment, when the external electronic device (101) is connected to the electronic device (201), as shown in FIG. 6A, the external electronic device (101) may display a first guide screen (610) for setting keyword information on the display (161), and when the user selects a keyword registration menu on the first guide screen (610), the external electronic device (101) may display a second guide screen (620) on the display (161). The external electronic device (101) may display a user name, words corresponding to a calling sound, words corresponding to a sound for a request, or other necessary words in a list format. After the user selects words to be registered, when the next menu is selected, the external electronic device (101) may store the selected words in the memory (130) by including them in the keyword information. When the external electronic device (101) identifies a situation requiring correction of an external sound (e.g., identifying an event occurrence), the external electronic device (101) may transmit keyword information to the electronic device (201).

[0085] According to one embodiment, when the external electronic device (101) receives a function setting request as shown in FIG. 6b, if the register menu is selected on the first setting screen (630), the external electronic device (101) may display a second setting screen (640) on the display (161) that provides a function for the user to select designated words and / or directly input words necessary for correcting external sounds. The external electronic device (101) may transmit keyword information including words selected or input through the second setting screen (640) to the electronic device (201).

[0086] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example for compensating for external sound in an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 7, the processor (220) of the electronic device (201) according to one embodiment may request the external electronic device (101 or 301) to transmit user context information or display notification information when an event for external sound compensation occurs. The external electronic device (101 or 301) may display notification information (710 or 720) set based on the user context information on the display (161 or 311).

[0088] An electronic device (201) according to one embodiment may implement a software module for executing operations for compensating external sounds (e.g., ambient sounds). A memory (250) of the electronic device (201) may store commands (e.g., instructions) to implement the software module. A processor (220) may execute commands stored in the memory (250) to implement the software module, and control hardware (e.g., an audio module (230), a sensor module (260), or a communication module (270) of FIG. 3) associated with a function of the software module. The software module of the electronic device (201) according to one embodiment may be configured to include a kernel (or HAL), a framework (e.g., implemented similarly or identically to the middleware (144) of FIG. 1), and an application (e.g., implemented similarly or identically to the application (146) of FIG. 1). At least some of the software modules may be preloaded on the electronic device (201) or downloadable from a server (e.g., server (108)).

[0089] As such, in one embodiment, the main components of the electronic device have been described through the electronic device (201) of FIGS. 2 and 3. However, in various embodiments, not all of the components illustrated through FIGS. 2 and 3 are essential components, and the electronic device (201) may be implemented with more components than the illustrated components, or with fewer components. In addition, the positions of the main components of the electronic device (201) described above through FIGS. 2 and 3 may be changed according to various embodiments.

[0090] According to one embodiment, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (201) of FIGS. 2 and 3) may include a plurality of microphones (210), an audio module (230), a memory (250), and at least one processor (220) operatively connected to the plurality of microphones, the audio module, and the memory.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the memory may store instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to obtain user context information and external sounds.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the memory may store instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to execute an ambient sound listening mode and compensate for external sounds based on a type of the user context information and a type of the external sound.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the memory may store instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to control the audio module to output the compensated external sound.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the electronic device may further include a communication module (270) and at least one sensor (260).

[0095] According to one embodiment, the memory may store instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to obtain the user context information using at least one of the plurality of microphones, the communication module, or the at least one sensor. According to one embodiment, the user context information may include at least one of location information or behavior pattern information.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the memory may store instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to acquire the external sound occurring in the vicinity of the electronic device through at least one microphone among the plurality of microphones.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the memory may store instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to identify first user context information as a type of the user context information and compensate for the external sound based on behavior pattern information included in the first user context information and at least one compensation condition corresponding to the type of the external sound.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the at least one compensation condition may include at least one of an active noise canceling level, an equalizer, noise cancellation, forward beamforming, amplification, or a fade in-out time of the ambient sound listening mode.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the memory may store instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to compensate for the external sound based on a compensation condition corresponding to the first type, based on the type of the external sound being the first type.

[0100] In one embodiment, the first type may include at least one of a voice or announcement corresponding to the specified words.

[0101] According to one embodiment, the memory may store instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to obtain keyword information including words specified by the external electronic device from the external electronic device through the communication module, and to identify the first type of the external sound based on the specified words included in the keyword information.

[0102] According to one embodiment, the memory may store instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to compensate for the external sound based on a compensation condition corresponding to the second type, based on the type of the external sound being a second type.

[0103] In one embodiment, the second type may include at least one of an alarm sound, a bell sound, or a sound generated by an object in the vicinity.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the memory may store instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to compensate for the external sound based on a compensation condition set to increase the external sound above the first threshold value based on a level of the second type of the external sound being below the first threshold value.

[0105] According to one embodiment, the memory may store instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the electronic device to compensate for the external sound based on a compensation condition set to reduce the external sound to below the second threshold based on a level of the second type of the external sound being greater than or equal to a second threshold.

[0106] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operating method in an electronic device according to an embodiment. The operations of the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (201) of FIGS. 2 and 3) described in the following drawings may be performed by a processor (e.g., the processor (220) of FIG. 3). However, for convenience of explanation, the operations performed by the processor will be described as being performed by the electronic device.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 8, in operation 801, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 201 of FIGS. 2 and 3) according to an embodiment may obtain user context information and external sound. The electronic device may obtain user context information and external sound by using at least one microphone among a plurality of microphones (e.g., the microphone 310 of FIG. 3) and at least one sensor (e.g., the sensor module 260 of FIG. 3). Without being limited thereto, the electronic device may obtain user context information from an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 101 of FIGS. 1 and 2 or the external electronic device 301 of FIG. 7). The user context information may include at least one of location information or behavioral pattern information (e.g., physical behavior and / or activity state). The location information may be obtained from the external electronic device by using a Global Positioning System (GPS) or an application that utilizes location information (e.g., a navigation, delivery application, or shopping application). Movement information may be obtained using an acceleration sensor included in a sensor module (260) of the electronic device (201), or may be obtained using at least one sensor (e.g., an acceleration sensor) or a camera of an external electronic device. Behavior pattern information may be obtained using at least one sensor (e.g., an acceleration sensor) or at least one microphone of the electronic device, or may be obtained using at least one sensor (e.g., an acceleration sensor), a microphone, a camera, or a running application of the external electronic device. External sound is a sound generated in the vicinity of the electronic device, and may be obtained through at least one microphone among a plurality of microphones of the electronic device.

[0108] In operation 803, the electronic device can determine (or identify) the type of user context information and the type of external sound. The types of external sounds can be divided into first and second types. For example, the first type may include sounds corresponding to pre-specified words (e.g., a sound of an unspecified person calling the user or a sound requesting help) or an announcement. For example, the first type may include at least one of an alarm sound (e.g., a fire alarm sound, a disaster alarm sound, or an ambulance sound), a bell sound (e.g., an exit sound, a doorbell, or a vibration bell), a sound generated from a surrounding object (e.g., a sound of a vehicle such as a car, bicycle, motorcycle, or scooter), or a sound for other notifications.

[0109] In operation 805, the electronic device may execute an ambient sound listening function based on a type of user context information and a type of external sound, and compensate for the external sound based on at least one preset compensation condition (e.g., compensation conditions of Tables 1 and 2). The electronic device may set different compensation conditions for compensating for the external sound depending on the type of user context information and the type of external sound. The at least one compensation condition may be set to include at least one of an active noise cancellation (ANC) level (e.g., low, mid, and high), an equalizer (EQ), noise removal (e.g., 5 step NS), forward beamforming (front BF), amplifying (e.g., lower amp. or high amp.), or a transition time (fade in-out time) of the ambient sound listening function (e.g., 0.5, 1, or 2). In one embodiment, the electronic device may compensate for external sounds while also compensating for internal sounds (e.g., reducing audio volume) based on specific behavioral pattern information (e.g., moving, sitting / lying down, or exercising) and the type of external sound being a first type (e.g., a sound calling me or a sound asking for help), in operation 805.

[0110] In operation 807, the electronic device can output a compensated external sound through the speaker (240).

[0111] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operating method in an electronic device according to an embodiment. The operations of the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (201) of FIGS. 2 and 3) described in the following drawings may be performed by a processor (e.g., the processor (220) of FIG. 3). However, for convenience of explanation, the operations performed by the processor will be described as being performed by the electronic device.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 9, in operation 901, an electronic device according to an embodiment (e.g., the electronic device (201) of FIGS. 2 and 3) may obtain user context information and external sound. The electronic device may obtain user context information and external sound by using at least one microphone among a plurality of microphones (e.g., the microphone (310) of FIG. 3) and at least one sensor (e.g., the sensor module (260) of FIG. 3). The electronic device is not limited thereto, and may obtain user context information from an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 1 and 2 or the external electronic device (301) of FIG. 7). For example, when performing operation 901, the electronic device may be in a state where the ambient sound listening mode is deactivated (off), a state where external sound is blocked or removed by active noise canceling, and a state where a voice or sound source signal received from an external electronic device is output (e.g., during a call or while listening to music).

[0113] In operation 903, the electronic device can determine whether a first event has occurred, indicating a situation requiring compensation of external sounds acquired outdoors, based on user context information and external sounds. If the first event has occurred, the electronic device can perform operation 905. If the first event has not occurred, the electronic device can then perform operation 901.

[0114] In operation 905, the electronic device can turn on the ambient sound listening mode.

[0115] In operation 907, the electronic device can identify first user context information as a type of user context information and identify the type of external sound. The first user context information is outdoor user context information obtained when the user is located outdoors, and may include behavioral pattern information (e.g., physical actions and / or activity states) according to outdoor activities.

[0116] In operation 909, the electronic device may compensate for external sounds based on first user context information and at least one compensation condition corresponding to the type of external sounds. Here, the at least one compensation condition may be preset based on the type of user context information and the type of external sounds and stored in a memory (e.g., memory (250) of FIG. 3). The at least one compensation condition may be set to include at least one of active noise cancellation (ANC) levels (e.g., low, mid, and high), an equalizer (EQ) (e.g., voice EQ or alarm EQ (alarm EQ2)), noise removal (e.g., 5 step NS), forward beamforming (front BF), amplifying (e.g., lower amp. or high amp.), or a transition time (fade in-out time) of an ambient sound listening function (e.g., 0.5, 1, or 2). In operation 909, the electronic device can compensate for an external sound while also compensating for an internal sound (e.g., reducing the audio volume) based on specific behavioral pattern information (e.g., moving, sitting / lying down, or exercising) and whether the type of the external sound is a first type (e.g., a sound calling me or a sound asking for help). In operation 911, the electronic device can process the compensated external sound through an audio module (e.g., an audio module (230) of FIG. 3), output an output sound corresponding to the external sound processed through the audio module through a speaker (e.g., a speaker (240) of FIG. 3), and then terminate the operation.

[0117] The operations of FIG. 9 described above can be performed repeatedly while the user uses the electronic device or for a specified period of time, when a condition is met (e.g., when user context information and / or external sound is acquired), or by request (e.g., an external electronic device or user request), and the operations can be terminated when a condition for terminating the operation is met or a termination event occurs.

[0118] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operating method in an electronic device according to an embodiment. The operations of the electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (201) of FIGS. 2 and 3) described in the following drawings may be performed by a processor (e.g., the processor (220) of FIG. 3). However, for convenience of explanation, the operations performed by the processor will be described as being performed by the electronic device.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 10, in operation 1001, an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (201) of FIGS. 2 and 3) according to an embodiment may obtain user context information and external sound. The electronic device may obtain user context information and external sound by using at least one microphone among a plurality of microphones (e.g., the microphone (310) of FIG. 3) and at least one sensor (e.g., the sensor module (260) of FIG. 3). The electronic device is not limited thereto, and may obtain user context information from an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIGS. 1 and 2 or the external electronic device (301) of FIG. 7). For example, when performing operation 1001, the electronic device may be in a state where the ambient sound listening mode is deactivated (off), a state where external sound is blocked or removed by active noise canceling, and a state where a voice or sound source signal received from an external electronic device is output (e.g., during a call or listening to music).

[0120] In operation 1003, the electronic device can determine whether a second event has occurred, indicating a situation requiring compensation of external sounds acquired indoors, based on user context information and external sounds. If the second event has occurred, the electronic device can perform operation 905. If the second event has not occurred, the electronic device can then perform operation 901.

[0121] In operation 1005, the electronic device may turn on the ambient sound listening mode.

[0122] In operation 1007, the electronic device can identify second user context information as a type of user context information and identify a type of external sound.

[0123] In operation 1009, the electronic device may compensate for external sounds based on second user context information and at least one compensation condition corresponding to the type of external sounds. Here, the at least one compensation condition may be preset based on the type of user context information and the type of external sounds and stored in the memory (250). The at least one compensation condition may be set to include at least one of active noise cancellation (ANC) levels (e.g., low, mid, and high), an equalizer (EQ) (e.g., voice EQ, alarm EQ1, or alarm EQ2), noise removal (e.g., 5 step NS), forward beamforming (front BF), amplifying (e.g., lower amp. or high amp.), or a transition time (fade in-out time) of an ambient sound listening function (e.g., 0.5, 1, or 2). In operation 1009, the electronic device can compensate for an external sound while also compensating for an internal sound (e.g., reducing audio volume) based on specific behavioral pattern information (e.g., moving, sitting / lying down, or exercising) and whether the type of the external sound is a first type (e.g., a sound calling me or a sound asking for help). In operation 1011, the electronic device can process the compensated external sound through an audio module (e.g., an audio module (230) of FIG. 3), output an output sound corresponding to the external sound processed through the audio module through a speaker (e.g., a speaker (240) of FIG. 3), and then terminate the operation.

[0124] The operations of FIG. 10 described above may be performed repeatedly while the user uses the electronic device or for a specified period of time, when a condition is met (e.g., when user context information and / or external sound is acquired), or by request (e.g., an external electronic device or user request), and the operations may be terminated when a condition for terminating the operation is met or a termination event occurs.

[0125] The operations illustrated in FIGS. 8, 9, and 10 according to the above-described embodiment may be performed sequentially, but are not necessarily performed sequentially. For example, the order of the operations may be changed, at least two operations may be performed in parallel, or other operations may be added.

[0126] According to one embodiment, a method of operating in an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (201) of FIGS. 2 and 3) may include an operation of obtaining user context information and external sound.

[0127] According to one embodiment, the method may include an operation of executing an ambient sound listening mode and compensating for external sounds based on a type of the user context information and a type of the external sound.

[0128] According to one embodiment, the method may include controlling an audio module of the electronic device to output the corrected external sound.

[0129] According to one embodiment, the operation of obtaining the user context information and the external sound may include an operation of obtaining the user context information using at least one of the plurality of microphones, the communication module, or the at least one sensor.

[0130] According to one embodiment, the user context information may include at least one of location information or behavior pattern information.

[0131] According to one embodiment, the operation of obtaining the user context information and the external sound may include an operation of obtaining the external sound occurring in the vicinity of the electronic device through at least one microphone among the plurality of microphones.

[0132] According to one embodiment, the operation of correcting the external sound may include an operation of identifying first user context information as a type of the user context information and an operation of correcting the external sound based on behavior pattern information included in the first user context information and at least one correction condition corresponding to the type of the external sound.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the at least one compensation condition may include at least one of an active noise canceling level, an equalizer, noise cancellation, forward beamforming, amplification, or a fade in-out time of the ambient sound listening mode.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the operation of correcting the external sound may include an operation of correcting the external sound based on a correction condition corresponding to the first type, based on the type of the external sound being the first type.

[0135] In one embodiment, the first type may include at least one of a voice or announcement corresponding to the specified words.

[0136] According to one embodiment, the operation of obtaining the user context information and the external sound may include an operation of obtaining keyword information including words specified by the external electronic device from the external electronic device through the communication module.

[0137] According to one embodiment, the operation of correcting the external sound may include an operation of identifying the first type of the external sound based on the designated words included in the keyword information.

[0138] According to one embodiment, the operation of correcting the external sound may include an operation of correcting the external sound based on a correction condition corresponding to the second type, based on the type of the external sound being a second type.

[0139] In one embodiment, the second type may include at least one of an alarm sound, a bell sound, or a sound generated by an object in the vicinity.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the operation of compensating for the external sound may further include an operation of compensating for the external sound based on a compensation condition set to increase the external sound to a level equal to or greater than the first threshold value, based on a level of the second type of the external sound being less than the first threshold value.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the operation of compensating for the external sound may further include an operation of compensating for the external sound based on a compensation condition set to reduce the external sound to below the second threshold value, based on a level of the second type of the external sound being equal to or greater than a second threshold value.

[0142] According to one embodiment, in a non-transitory storage medium storing one or more programs, the one or more programs may include instructions that, when executed by a processor (e.g., processor (220) of FIG. 3) of an electronic device (e.g., electronic device (201) of FIGS. 2 and 3), cause the electronic device to perform an operation of acquiring user context information and external sounds.

[0143] According to one embodiment, a non-transitory storage medium storing one or more programs may include a command that, when executed by a processor of an electronic device, causes the electronic device to execute an ambient sound listening mode and an operation of compensating for external sounds based on a type of the user context information and a type of the external sounds.

[0144] According to one embodiment, a non-transitory storage medium storing one or more programs may include commands that, when executed by a processor of an electronic device, cause the electronic device to execute an operation of controlling an audio module of the electronic device to output the corrected external sound.

[0145] This document describes an electronic device according to one embodiment, which can identify user context information including a user's location and behavioral patterns and external sounds, and perform appropriate compensation for external sounds based on compensation conditions set in response to the type of user context information and the type of external sounds, and can provide a responsive auditory experience so that the user can hear the desired external sounds by outputting the compensated external sounds in appropriate situations, and can prepare for dangerous situations. In addition, various effects that can be directly or indirectly identified through this document can be provided. The effects that can be obtained from this document are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art to which this document belongs from the description of this document.

[0146] The term "identify" as disclosed in this document may be replaced with at least one of the terms confirm, determine, detect or produce.

[0147] The embodiments disclosed in this document are presented for the purpose of explaining and understanding the disclosed technical content, and do not limit the scope of the technology described in this document. Therefore, the scope of this document should be interpreted to include all modifications or various other embodiments based on the technical concepts of this document.

[0148] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0149] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0150] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0151] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0152] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between sellers and buyers as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)) or may be provided through an application store (e.g., Play Store). TM ) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones), online distribution (e.g., downloading or uploading). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be at least temporarily stored or temporarily created in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0153] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. In an electronic device (201), Multiple microphones (210); Audio module (230); Speaker (240); memory (250); and At least one processor (220) operatively connected to the above plurality of microphones, the audio module, the speaker and the memory, The memory, when executed by the at least one processor, causes the electronic device to: Obtain user context information and external sounds, Based on the type of the above user context information and the type of the above external sound, the ambient sound listening mode is executed and the external sound is compensated for, An electronic device storing instructions for controlling the audio module to output the compensated external sound through the speaker.

2. In paragraph 1, Communication module (270); and further comprising at least one sensor (260), The memory, when executed by the at least one processor, causes the electronic device to: obtain the user context information using at least one of the plurality of microphones, the communication module or the at least one sensor; Store instructions for acquiring external sounds occurring around the electronic device through at least one microphone among the plurality of microphones, An electronic device, wherein the user context information includes at least one of location information and behavior pattern information.

3. In any one of paragraphs 1 and 2, the memory, when executed by the at least one processor, causes the electronic device to: Identifying the first user context information as a type of the above user context information, Store instructions for compensating the external sound based on behavior pattern information included in the first user context information and at least one compensation condition corresponding to the type of the external sound, An electronic device, wherein said at least one compensation condition comprises at least one of an active noise canceling level, an equalizer, noise cancellation, forward beamforming, amplification or a switching time of said ambient sound listening mode.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, the memory, when executed by the at least one processor, causes the electronic device to: Based on the type of the above external sound being the first type, an instruction is stored to compensate for the external sound based on a compensation condition corresponding to the first type, An electronic device, wherein the first type includes at least one of a voice or guidance broadcast corresponding to designated words.

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, the memory, when executed by the at least one processor, causes the electronic device to: Acquire keyword information including words specified by an external electronic device from the external electronic device through the communication module, An electronic device storing instructions for identifying the first type of the external sound based on the designated words included in the keyword information.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, the memory, when executed by the at least one processor, causes the electronic device to: Based on the fact that the type of the external sound is the second type, an instruction is stored to compensate for the external sound based on a compensation condition corresponding to the second type. The second type is an electronic device including at least one of an alarm sound, a bell sound, or a sound generated from an object in the surroundings.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, the memory, when executed by the at least one processor, causes the electronic device to: Based on the level of the second type of said external sound being less than the first threshold value, the external sound is compensated based on a compensation condition set to increase the external sound to more than the first threshold value, An electronic device storing instructions for compensating for the external sound based on a compensation condition set to reduce the external sound to below the second threshold value, based on the level of the second type of the external sound being equal to or greater than a second threshold value.

8. In the operating method of an electronic device (201), Actions to obtain user context information and external sounds; An operation of executing an ambient sound listening mode and compensating for external sounds based on the type of the above user context information and the type of the above external sounds; and A method comprising an action of controlling an audio module (230) of the electronic device to output the corrected external sound.

9. In the 8th paragraph, the operation of obtaining the user context information and the external sound is as follows: An operation of obtaining the user context information using at least one of the plurality of microphones, the communication module or the at least one sensor; and An operation of acquiring said external sound occurring in the vicinity of the electronic device through at least one microphone among said plurality of microphones, A method wherein the user context information includes at least one of location information and behavior pattern information.

10. In either of paragraphs 8 and 9, the operation of compensating for the external sound comprises: An operation for identifying first user context information as a type of the above user context information; and An operation for correcting the external sound based on at least one correction condition corresponding to the type of the external sound and the behavior pattern information included in the first user context information, A method wherein said at least one compensation condition comprises at least one of an active noise cancellation level, an equalizer, noise cancellation, forward beamforming, amplification or a switching time of said ambient sound listening mode.

11. In any one of clauses 8 to 10, the operation of compensating for the external sound is as follows: Based on the type of the above external sound being the first type, an operation of correcting the external sound based on a correction condition corresponding to the first type is included. A method wherein the first type comprises at least one of a voice or guidance broadcast corresponding to the specified words.

12. In any one of clauses 8 to 11, the operation of obtaining the user context information and the external sound is as follows: An operation of obtaining keyword information including words specified by an external electronic device (101 or 301) from the external electronic device through the communication module, The above actions to compensate for external sounds are: A method comprising an operation of identifying the first type of the external sound based on the designated words included in the keyword information.

13. In any one of clauses 8 to 12, the operation of compensating for the external sound is as follows: Based on the fact that the type of the external sound is the second type, an operation of correcting the external sound based on a correction condition corresponding to the second type is included. A method wherein the second type comprises at least one of an alarm sound, a bell sound, or a sound generated from an ambient object.

14. In any one of clauses 8 to 13, the operation of compensating for the external sound is as follows: An operation of compensating for the external sound based on a compensation condition set to increase the external sound to more than the first threshold value, based on the level of the second type of the external sound being less than the first threshold value; and A method further comprising an operation of compensating for the external sound based on a compensation condition set to reduce the external sound to below the second threshold value, based on the level of the second type of the external sound being equal to or greater than a second threshold value.

15. In a non-transitory storage medium storing one or more programs, the one or more programs, when executed by a processor of an electronic device, the electronic device, Actions to obtain user context information and external sounds; An operation of executing an ambient sound listening mode and compensating for external sounds based on the type of the above user context information and the type of the above external sounds; and A non-transitory storage medium comprising commands set to execute an operation for controlling an audio module of the electronic device to output the corrected external sound.

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