Method and electronic device for noise-adaptive volume control

Abstract

Provided is an electronic device comprising: a microphone; a memory for storing instructions; and one or more processors including processing circuitry. When executed individually or collectively by the one or more processors, the instructions instruct the electronic device to perform one or more operations. The one or more operations include: acquiring a volume adjustment model that indicates a target signal level with respect to a noise level; acquiring a first acoustic signal through the microphone of the electronic device; acquiring a second acoustic signal of a medium on the basis that the medium performs playback at a playback volume; adjusting the playback volume on the basis of the volume adjustment model, a first intensity of the first acoustic signal corresponding to the noise level and a second intensity of the second acoustic signal corresponding to the target signal level; and updating the volume adjustment model on the basis that the playback volume exceeds a first threshold time.

Description

Method for adaptively controlling volume to noise and electronic device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method and electronic device for adaptively controlling volume to noise.

[0002] As the use of portable electronic devices such as smartphones, tablet PCs, or laptops increases, the use of wearable electronic devices that users can wear on their bodies is also increasing.

[0003] For example, users can use earphones and headphones as wearable electronic devices that connect to electronic devices such as smartphones, tablet PCs, or laptops. Earphones and headphones provide various functions such as voice calls, listening to music, and voice command recognition, and wireless earphones and headphones, in particular, allow users freedom of movement, enabling convenient use even during daily activities.

[0004] While earphones and headphones offer the advantage of allowing users to conveniently listen to music or make calls, prolonged use driven by this convenience can have a negative impact on hearing. For instance, wearing earphones or headphones for extended periods can lead to ear fatigue and continuous exposure to sound, which can negatively affect hearing. Furthermore, continuous exposure to high-volume sounds poses a risk of hearing loss, as such sounds can permanently damage auditory cells and cause noise-induced hearing loss. In particular, users who use earphones or headphones in noisy environments may increase their risk of hearing loss by raising the volume to mask ambient noise.

[0005] Therefore, to protect hearing, it is important to maintain an appropriate volume when using earphones or headphones and to take breaks at regular intervals. Additionally, users can prevent hearing damage by using earphones or headphones equipped with noise-canceling features.

[0006] According to one embodiment, a method comprising one or more operations is provided. The method comprises an operation of acquiring a volume control model representing a target signal level for a noise level. The method also comprises an operation of acquiring a first acoustic signal through a microphone of an electronic device. The method further comprises an operation of acquiring a second acoustic signal of the media based on the media being played at a playback volume by the electronic device or a paired electronic device. The method further comprises an operation of controlling the playback volume based on the volume control model, a first intensity of the first acoustic signal corresponding to the noise level, and a second intensity of the second acoustic signal corresponding to the target signal level. The method further comprises an operation of updating the volume control model based on the playback volume being maintained for a time exceeding a first threshold time.

[0007] According to one embodiment, an electronic device is provided comprising one or more processors including a microphone, a memory for storing instructions, and processing circuitry. When the instructions are executed individually or collectively by the one or more processors, the electronic device is made to perform one or more operations. The one or more operations include obtaining a volume control model representing a target signal level for a noise level. The one or more operations also include obtaining a first acoustic signal through the microphone of the electronic device. The one or more operations further include obtaining a second acoustic signal of the media based on the media being played at a playback volume. The one or more operations additionally include adjusting the playback volume based on the volume control model, a first intensity of the first acoustic signal corresponding to the noise level, and a second intensity of the second acoustic signal corresponding to the target signal level. The one or more operations also include updating the volume control model based on the playback volume being maintained for a time exceeding a first threshold time.

[0008] A computer-readable non-transitory recording medium according to one embodiment of the present invention stores at least one instruction and / or instruction that causes an electronic device to perform the method or operation of the electronic device described above when executed.

[0009] In relation to the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a flowchart of a method for adaptively controlling volume to noise according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a graph for explaining a volume control model according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a method for updating a volume control model according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a method for calibrating a volume control model by estimating the amount of sound exposure of a user according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a table for explaining a method for calculating cumulative playback time per noise level range to estimate the amount of acoustic exposure of a user according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a graph illustrating a method for calculating cumulative playback time per noise level range to estimate the amount of acoustic exposure of a user according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a table for explaining the allowable acoustic exposure amount according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 8 is a graph illustrating a volume control model corrected according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 11 is a block diagram of an audio module according to one embodiment.

[0021] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described below in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement them. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, in order to clearly explain the present disclosure in the drawings, parts unrelated to the explanation have been omitted, and similar parts throughout the specification are denoted by similar reference numerals.

[0022] The terms used in this disclosure are described in their current, general form considering the functions mentioned herein; however, they may refer to various other terms depending on the intent of those skilled in the art, case law, or the emergence of new technologies. Accordingly, the terms used in this disclosure should not be interpreted solely by their names, but should be interpreted based on the meaning of the terms and the overall content of this disclosure.

[0023] Additionally, terms such as the first, second, third, ..., Nth may be used to describe various components, but the components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0024] Throughout the specification, when a part is described as being "connected" to another part, this includes not only cases where they are "directly connected," but also cases where they are "electrically connected" with other components interposed between them. Furthermore, when a part is described as "including" a certain component, this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may include additional components.

[0025] Phrases such as "in one embodiment" appearing in various places in this disclosure do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.

[0026] One embodiment of the present disclosure may be represented by functional block configurations and various processing steps. Some or all of these functional blocks may be implemented by various numbers of hardware and / or software configurations that execute specific functions. For example, the functional blocks of the present disclosure may be implemented by one or more microprocessors or by circuit configurations for a specific function. Additionally, for example, the functional blocks of the present disclosure may be implemented in various programming or scripting languages. The functional blocks may be implemented as algorithms executed on one or more processors. Furthermore, the present disclosure may employ prior art for electronic configuration, signal processing, and / or data processing. Terms such as “mechanism,” “element,” “means,” and “configuration” may be used broadly and are not limited to mechanical and physical configurations.

[0027] Furthermore, the connecting lines or connecting members between the components depicted in the drawings are merely illustrative of functional connections and / or physical or circuit connections. In the actual device, connections between components may be represented by various alternative or added functional connections, physical connections, or circuit connections.

[0028] The present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0029] FIG. 1 is a flowchart of a method for adaptively controlling volume to noise according to one embodiment.

[0030] In the following embodiments, each operation may be performed sequentially, but is not necessarily performed sequentially. For example, the order of each operation may be changed, and at least two operations may be performed in parallel.

[0031] According to one embodiment, in operation 110, a wearable electronic device (e.g., the wearable electronic device (902) of FIG. 9 or the electronic device (1001) of FIG. 10) may acquire a volume control model. The volume control model may represent a target signal level for a noise level.

[0032] Refer to Fig. 2 to explain the volume control model.

[0033] FIG. 2 is a graph for explaining a volume control model according to one embodiment.

[0034] The graph in FIG. 2 visualizes the volume control model (200) as a curve by listing the noise level on the horizontal axis and the target signal level on the vertical axis. The noise level corresponds to the level of noise intensity of the environment surrounding the electronic device, and the target signal level corresponds to the level of intensity of the acoustic signal output from the electronic device.

[0035] Referring to FIG. 2, the target signal level can be expressed as a level subtracted from 0 dB, which is the maximum volume in the digital acoustic signal. For example, referring to FIG. 2, for a noise level in the range of 10 dB to 30 dB, the target signal level may have a range of -35 dB to -30 dB; for a noise level in the range of 30 dB to 50 dB, the target signal level may have a range of -30 dB to -20 dB; for a noise level in the range of 50 dB to 60 dB, the target signal level may have a range of -20 dB to -15 dB; for a noise level in the range of 60 dB to 70 dB, the target signal level may be subtracted by a level in the range of -15 dB to -10 dB; and for a noise level in the range of 70 dB to 80 dB, the target signal level may have a range of -10 dB to -8 dB. As the noise level decreases, the target signal level also decreases, allowing media to be played at a lower volume. This prevents users from being exposed to sound at unnecessarily high volumes, thereby preventing hearing damage or loss. As the noise level increases, the target signal level also increases, allowing media to be played at a higher volume. This prevents the sound of the media from being drowned out by ambient noise.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the noise level and the target signal level may be expressed based on the root-mean-square (RMS) value, but are not limited thereto.

[0037] According to one embodiment, a volume control model may be generated by calculating a target signal level for a noise level based on data from big data, e.g., large data sets collected from one or more data sources associated with audio data in various environments, and a wearable electronic device may have the generated volume control model pre-loaded or receive it from an electronic device paired with the wearable electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1002, 1004) of FIG. 10). According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device may receive a volume control model distributed by a server (e.g., server (1008) of FIG. 10) through the electronic device.

[0038] According to one embodiment, in operation 120, the wearable electronic device may acquire a first acoustic signal through a microphone (e.g., the input module (1050) of FIG. 10). The first acoustic signal may represent noise outside the wearable electronic device acquired through the microphone. The first acoustic signal may be continuously acquired by the wearable electronic device in real time, and the first acoustic signal is variable over time. The first acoustic signal has a first intensity, and the first intensity is variable over time.

[0039] According to one embodiment, in operation 130, the wearable electronic device may acquire a second acoustic signal of the media. The second acoustic signal may represent an acoustic signal to be output through the speaker of the wearable electronic device (e.g., the acoustic output module (1055) of FIG. 10). The second acoustic signal may be continuously acquired by the wearable electronic device in real time, and the second acoustic signal is variable over time.

[0040] According to one embodiment, based on playing media at a playback volume by an electronic device paired with a wearable electronic device, the wearable electronic device can acquire a second acoustic signal of the media. The wearable electronic device can acquire a second acoustic signal from the electronic device. For example, the wearable electronic device can acquire a second acoustic signal from the electronic device via a Bluetooth network, but is not limited thereto, and can acquire a second acoustic signal via a wired connection or acquire a second acoustic signal from the electronic device via another wireless communication network.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the second acoustic signal may be a digital acoustic signal before the acoustic signal is converted into an analog and output from a wearable electronic device, and the second intensity of the second acoustic signal may be expressed as the signal intensity of the digital acoustic signal, by subtracting from 0 dB, which is the maximum volume in the digital acoustic signal.

[0042] According to one embodiment, in operation 140, the wearable electronic device can adjust the playback volume. For example, the wearable electronic device can adjust the playback volume based on a volume control model obtained in operation 110, a first intensity of a first acoustic signal obtained in operation 120, and a second intensity of a second acoustic signal obtained in operation 130.

[0043] Since the first acoustic signal obtained in operation 120 is variable and the first intensity of the first acoustic signal also changes over time, the first intensity referenced to adjust the playback volume may be a value calculated by weighted averaging the first intensities per unit time of the first acoustic signal.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the unit time may be 10 seconds, 5 seconds, 1 second, 0.1 seconds, 0.01 seconds, or 0.001 seconds, but is not limited thereto. As the unit time becomes smaller, the resolution of the data improves, while the processing burden on the wearable electronic device increases; therefore, an appropriate unit time may be selected according to the preference or inclination of the wearable electronic device or the user.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the highest weight may be applied to the intensity of the most recently acquired signal in the first acoustic signal that is continuously acquired in real time.

[0046] Since the second acoustic signal obtained in operation 130 is variable and the second intensity of the second acoustic signal also changes over time, the second intensity referenced to adjust the playback volume may be a value calculated by weighted averaging the second intensities per unit time of the second acoustic signal.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the unit time may be 10 seconds, 5 seconds, 1 second, 0.1 seconds, 0.01 seconds, or 0.001 seconds, but is not limited thereto. As the unit time becomes smaller, the resolution of the data improves, while the processing burden on the wearable electronic device increases, so an appropriate unit time may be selected depending on the wearable electronic device.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the highest weight may be applied to the intensity of the most recently acquired signal in a second acoustic signal that is continuously acquired in real time.

[0049] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device can adjust the playback volume based on the fact that, for a time exceeding a threshold time (e.g., 10 seconds), the second intensity of the second acoustic signal deviates from the threshold range (e.g., ±5 dB) of the target signal level for the noise level corresponding to the first intensity in the volume control model.

[0050] For example, when a user wearing a wearable electronic device is watching a movie in a quiet library, the first intensity of a first sound signal obtained in the environment of the quiet library may be 30 dB, and the volume control model of FIG. 2 may indicate a target signal level of -30 dB. If the intensity of the sound signal of the movie being played on the wearable electronic device is maintained within the threshold range of -25 dB to 35 dB, which is -30 dB, the wearable electronic device may continue to maintain the playback volume. If the intensity of the sound signal of the movie being played on the wearable electronic device deviates from the threshold range of -35 dB to -25 dB, which is -30 dB, and the time spent outside the threshold range exceeds a threshold time (e.g., 10 seconds), the wearable electronic device may adjust the playback volume. For example, if the weighted average value of the sound signal intensity is -20dB, which is greater than -25dB, and the value greater than -25dB (e.g., -20dB) is maintained for a time exceeding 10 seconds, the wearable electronic device may lower the playback volume of the movie. According to one embodiment, the amount of adjustment of the playback volume may be proportional to the amount by which the second intensity deviates from the threshold range, but is not limited thereto. The playback volume may be adjusted in the minimum adjustment unit allowed by the wearable electronic device, which helps prevent hearing damage or loss without interfering with the user's enjoyment.

[0051] For example, if the weighted average value of the sound signal intensity is -40dB, which is less than -35dB, and the value is maintained at less than -35dB (e.g., -40dB) for a period exceeding 10 seconds, the wearable electronic device may increase the playback volume. According to one embodiment, the amount of adjustment of the playback volume may be proportional to the amount by which the second intensity deviates from the threshold range, but is not limited thereto. For example, the playback volume may be adjusted in the minimum adjustment unit allowed by the wearable electronic device, which helps prevent the sound of the movie from being drowned out by ambient noise without interfering with the user's viewing.

[0052] According to one embodiment, even if the strength of the original signal varies depending on the content, the playback volume can be adjusted based on the strength of the digital audio signal before it is converted into analog and output from the wearable electronic device. Therefore, the content can be played at an appropriate playback volume regardless of the content.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device can adjust the playback volume when the second intensity of the second acoustic signal is outside the threshold range for a period exceeding the threshold time, thereby preventing sudden adjustment of the playback volume that could startle the user or cause hearing damage or loss.

[0054] According to one embodiment, operations 110, 120, 130, and 140 may be understood to be performed in a processor (e.g., processor (920) of FIG. 9 or processor (1020) of FIG. 10) of an electronic device (e.g., wearable electronic device (902) of FIG. 9 or electronic device (1001) of FIG. 10).

[0055] According to one embodiment, the volume control model may be updated or corrected, and the wearable electronic device may control the playback volume based on the updated volume control model or the corrected volume control model. A method for updating the volume control model is described with reference to FIG. 3. A method for correcting the volume control model will be further described with reference to FIG. 4 through 8.

[0056] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a method for updating a volume control model according to one embodiment.

[0057] In the following embodiments, each operation may be performed sequentially, but is not necessarily performed sequentially. For example, the order of each operation may be changed, and at least two operations may be performed in parallel.

[0058] Since operations 310, 320, and 330 of FIG. 3 are substantially identical to operations 110, 120, and 130 of FIG. 1, respectively, a redundant description is omitted.

[0059] According to one embodiment, in operation 350, the wearable electronic device can update the volume control model. For example, the wearable electronic device can update the volume control model based on the fact that the playback volume of the media persists for a time exceeding a threshold time (e.g., 10 minutes). If the user has not changed the playback volume for a time exceeding the threshold time, it can be determined that the user is satisfied with the intensity of the acoustic signal of the media being played at the current noise level. Therefore, to reflect this user tendency in the volume control model, if the user has not changed the playback volume for a time exceeding 10 minutes, the wearable electronic device can add the noise level and the intensity level of the acoustic signal of the media during that time to the volume control model. The data added in this way can be represented as individual points in the graph of FIG. 2, and the volume control model represented as a curve can be updated according to the added points. For example, if a user continues to listen to media while maintaining a high playback volume in an environment with a noise level of 50 dB, and the sound signal strength of the media is -15 dB, the curve of Fig. 2, which represents a target signal strength of -20 dB at a noise level of 50 dB, may be updated to represent a target signal strength of -15 dB at a noise level of 50 dB.

[0060] According to one embodiment, new data can be reflected in the volume control model based on the maintenance of the playback volume, thereby providing a volume control model customized to the user. If the volume control model is updated based on the adjustment of the playback volume rather than the maintenance of the playback volume, the volume control model is updated even when the playback volume is adjusted in unexpected situations (for example, when someone nearby speaks to the user and the user lowers the playback volume), and the volume control model updated in this way may not meet the user's intention. On the other hand, since one embodiment is implemented so that the volume control model is updated based on the maintenance of the playback volume, new data is reflected in the volume control model while the playback volume is maintained and the media is playing, so the volume control model can be updated in a way that meets the user's intention.

[0061] According to one embodiment, if the playback volume changes before a threshold time (e.g., 10 minutes) has passed while the media is playing, the data accumulated before the threshold time has passed may be discarded without being reflected in the volume control model, and whether the time the playback volume is maintained exceeds the threshold time may be counted again. While a shorter threshold time allows the volume control model to be updated more frequently and thus more customized to the user, it increases the processing burden on the wearable electronic device; therefore, an appropriate threshold time may be selected according to the preferences or tendencies of the wearable electronic device or the user.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device can adjust the playback volume based on a volume control model updated in operation 350.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the volume control model obtained in operation 110 of FIG. 1 may be updated or corrected, and the wearable electronic device may adjust the playback volume based on the updated volume control model or the corrected volume control model. According to one embodiment, the volume control model updated in operation 350 of FIG. 3 may be further updated, or the volume control model corrected in operation 464 of FIG. 4 may be updated.

[0064] According to one embodiment, operations 310, 320, 330, and 350 may be understood to be performed in a processor (e.g., processor (920) of FIG. 9 or processor (1020) of FIG. 10) of an electronic device (e.g., wearable electronic device (902) of FIG. 9 or electronic device (1001) of FIG. 10).

[0065] According to one embodiment, a volume control model can be calibrated, and a wearable electronic device can control the playback volume based on the calibrated volume control model. A method for calibrating the volume control model is described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 8.

[0066] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a method for calibrating a volume control model by estimating the amount of sound exposure of a user according to one embodiment.

[0067] FIG. 5 is a table for explaining a method for calculating cumulative playback time per noise level range to estimate the amount of acoustic exposure of a user according to one embodiment.

[0068] FIG. 6 is a graph illustrating a method for calculating cumulative playback time per noise level range to estimate the amount of acoustic exposure of a user according to one embodiment.

[0069] FIG. 7 is a table for explaining the allowable acoustic exposure amount according to one embodiment.

[0070] FIG. 8 is a graph illustrating a volume control model corrected according to one embodiment.

[0071] In the following embodiments, each operation may be performed sequentially, but is not necessarily performed sequentially. For example, the order of each operation may be changed, and at least two operations may be performed in parallel.

[0072] According to one embodiment, in operation 460, the wearable electronic device can calculate the cumulative playback time per noise level range. The cumulative playback time may refer to the playback time accumulated over a set period (e.g., 7 days).

[0073] Referring to FIG. 5, the wearable electronic device indicates that it played for 0 hours, 3 hours, 1 hour, 2 hours, 3 hours, 3 hours, and 1 hour, respectively, on the current day, 1 day ago, 2 days ago, 3 days ago, 4 days ago, 5 days ago, and 6 days ago within a noise level range of 70 dB to 80 dB, and the cumulative playback time corresponding to the noise level range of 70 dB to 80 dB can be calculated as 13 hours. Furthermore, the cumulative playback time corresponding to the noise level range of 60 dB to 70 dB can be calculated as 21 hours. The cumulative playback time corresponding to the noise level range of 50 dB to 60 dB can be calculated as 5 hours. The cumulative playback time corresponding to the noise level range of 30 dB to 50 dB can be calculated as 3 hours. Furthermore, referring to FIG. 6, the total playback time of the wearable electronic device on the day may be 4 hours, the total playback time 1 day ago may be 11 hours, the total playback time 2 days ago may be 6 hours, the total playback time 3 days ago may be 5 hours, the total playback time 4 days ago may be 6 hours, the total playback time 5 days ago may be 6 hours, and the total playback time 6 days ago may be 4 hours.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the highest weight may be applied to the playback time of the most recent date, and the lowest weight may be applied to the playback time of the oldest date, for example, 6 days ago.

[0075] According to one embodiment, in operation 462, the wearable electronic device can estimate the user's sound dose. The wearable electronic device can estimate the user's sound dose over a set period based on the cumulative playback time and volume control model calculated in operation 460.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the amount or level of sound exposure of a user may correspond to a noise level range. For example, if a user listens to media for a total of 13 hours at a noise level of 70 dB to 80 dB, the amount of sound exposure of the user may be calculated as being exposed to noise of 70 dB to 80 dB for 13 hours, but is not limited thereto. For example, the amount of sound exposure of the user may be calculated as being exposed to noise of 75 dB for 13 hours. Since the actual user blocks a certain portion of ambient noise by wearing a wearable electronic device, a volume control model may be referenced to take this into account. According to the volume control model, the target signal strength corresponding to a noise level range of 70dB to 80dB may be -10dB, the target signal strength corresponding to a noise level range of 60dB to 70dB may be -12dB, the target signal strength corresponding to a noise level range of 50dB to 60dB may be -17dB, and the target signal strength corresponding to a noise level range of 30dB to 50dB may be -25dB. Accordingly, the user's acoustic exposure corresponding to an average noise level of 75dB in the noise level range of 70dB to 80dB can be calculated as 13 hours of 65dB with 10dB deducted, the user's acoustic exposure corresponding to an average noise level of 65dB in the noise level range of 60dB to 70dB can be calculated as 21 hours of 53dB with 12dB deducted, the user's acoustic exposure corresponding to an average noise level of 55dB in the noise level range of 50dB to 60dB can be calculated as 5 hours of 38dB with 17dB deducted, and the user's acoustic exposure corresponding to an average noise level of 40dB in the noise level range of 30dB to 50dB can be calculated as 2 hours of 15dB with 25dB deducted, but is not limited thereto.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the amount of sound exposure to a user can be calculated according to the following mathematical formula 1.

[0078]

[0079] In mathematical formula 1, T represents the total playback time, and P(t) represents the weighted average sound pressure over time (t).

[0080] According to one embodiment, in operation 464, the wearable electronic device can calibrate the volume control model. According to one embodiment, the wearable electronic device can calibrate the volume control model so that the user's sound exposure amount is below the allowable sound exposure amount.

[0081] As illustrated in FIG. 7, the permissible acoustic exposure can be defined as the exposure allowed per day and per week according to each noise exposure level, and the permissible acoustic exposure can be defined in various ways.

[0082] According to one embodiment, if the ratio of the user's sound exposure amount to the allowable sound exposure amount exceeds 100%, the volume control model may be corrected. According to one embodiment, based on the ratio between a plurality of cumulative playback times corresponding to a plurality of noise level ranges, parts corresponding to a plurality of noise level ranges in the volume control model may be corrected.

[0083] For example, referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the proportions (e.g., 32%, 51%, 12%, 5%) of multiple accumulated playback times (e.g., 13 hours, 21 hours, 5 hours, and 3 hours) corresponding to each of the multiple noise level ranges (e.g., 70dB to 80dB, 60dB to 70dB, 50dB to 60dB, and 30dB to 50dB) can be calculated, and the amount of correction for the corresponding target signal level can be determined in proportion to the calculated proportions. That is, the target signal level corresponding to the noise level range of 60dB to 70dB, which has the largest calculated proportion, is corrected the most, and the target signal level corresponding to the noise level range of 70dB to 80dB, which has the next largest proportion, is corrected the next most. For example, the thick line (810) in FIG. 8 represents a corrected volume control model (810), and with reference to the corrected volume control model (810), the target signal level corresponding to a noise level range of 60 dB to 70 dB and the target signal level corresponding to a noise level range of 70 dB to 80 dB can be corrected to have lower values ​​compared to the uncorrected volume control model (800) represented by the thin (i.e., non-bold) line (800). On the other hand, the target signal size corresponding to noise level ranges (30 dB to 60 dB) with a relatively low calculated weight may be less affected by the correction.

[0084] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device can adjust the playback volume based on a volume control model corrected in operation 464. According to one embodiment, since the volume control model is corrected preemptively by anticipating the user's sound exposure amount, hearing damage or loss of the user can be prevented.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the volume control model obtained in operation 110 of FIG. 1 may be updated or corrected, and the wearable electronic device may control the playback volume based on the updated volume control model or the corrected volume control model. According to one embodiment, the volume control model updated in operation 350 of FIG. 3 may be corrected, or the volume control model corrected in operation 464 of FIG. 4 may be further corrected.

[0086] In the present disclosure, the expression of correcting or updating a volume control model may be understood as changing the volume control model by reflecting new data.

[0087] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device may include a plurality of volume control models. The plurality of volume control models may be represented by different curves. The plurality of volume control models may include a volume control model corresponding to a noise control mode of the wearable electronic device. For example, the plurality of volume control models may include a first volume control model corresponding to a noise canceling mode, a second volume control model corresponding to an ambient sound listening mode, and a third volume control model corresponding to a state where the noise canceling mode is disabled. Since ambient noise is removed when the noise canceling mode is activated, the first volume control model corresponding to that mode may indicate an overall lower target signal level compared to other volume control models affected by ambient noise, and the curve of the first volume control model may have a smaller slope than the curves of other volume control models. On the other hand, since the second volume control model corresponding to the ambient sound listening mode is most affected by ambient noise, it indicates an overall higher target signal level compared to other volume control models, and the curve of the second volume control model may have a larger slope than the curves of other volume control models.

[0088] According to one embodiment, a wearable electronic device may include a plurality of volume control models. The plurality of volume control models may be represented by different curves. The plurality of volume control models may include volume control models corresponding to the type of media played on the wearable electronic device. For example, the plurality of volume control models may include a first volume control model corresponding to news-type media, a second volume control model corresponding to movie-type media, and a third volume control model corresponding to music-type media. Since the delivery power of news is important for news-type media compared to other types of media, it may indicate a higher overall target signal level compared to other volume control models, and the curve of the first volume control model may have a steeper slope than the curves of other volume control models. The types of media may be further subdivided into various subtypes such as sports content, action content, horror content, classical music, pop-rock music, country music, heavy metal music, rap performances, etc., and each subtype may have a customized volume control model.

[0089] According to one embodiment, operations 460, 462, and 464 may be understood to be performed in a processor (e.g., processor (920) of FIG. 9 or processor (1020) of FIG. 10) of an electronic device (e.g., wearable electronic device (902) of FIG. 9 or electronic device (1001) of FIG. 10).

[0090] According to one embodiment, a method comprising one or more operations may be provided. The method may include an operation (110) of obtaining a volume control model representing a target signal level for a noise level. The method may include an operation (120) of obtaining a first acoustic signal through a microphone of an electronic device. The method may include an operation (130) of obtaining a second acoustic signal of the media based on the media being played at a playback volume by the electronic device or a paired electronic device. The method may include an operation (140) of controlling the playback volume based on the volume control model, a first intensity of the first acoustic signal corresponding to the noise level, and a second intensity of the second acoustic signal corresponding to the target signal level. The method may include an operation (350) of updating the volume control model based on the playback volume being maintained for a time exceeding a first threshold time.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the second intensity of the second sound signal may change while the media is being played at the playback volume.

[0092] According to one embodiment, the first intensity may be calculated by weighted averaging the first intensities per unit time of the first acoustic signal, and the second intensity may be calculated by weighted averaging the second intensities per unit time of the second acoustic signal. The calculation may be performed by one or more processors of the electronic device or paired electronic device.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the operation of controlling the playback volume may include: controlling the playback volume based on the fact that during a time exceeding a second threshold time, the second intensity deviates from the threshold range of the target signal level corresponding to the first intensity in the volume control model.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the second threshold time may be shorter than the first threshold time.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the method may further include the operation of calculating a cumulative playback time per noise level range based on the first intensity; and the operation of correcting the volume control model based on the cumulative playback time. The calculating operation may be performed by one or more processors of the electronic device or paired electronic device.

[0096] According to one embodiment, the operation of correcting the volume control model may include: the operation of predicting the sound dose of the user of the electronic device during a set period based on the accumulated playback time and the volume control model; and the operation of correcting the volume control model so that the sound dose is lower than an allowable sound dose.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the operation of correcting the volume control model may include: correcting the parts corresponding to each of the noise level ranges in the volume control model based on the ratio of accumulated playback times corresponding to the noise level ranges.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the operation of obtaining the volume control model may include: the operation of identifying a noise control mode set in the electronic device; and the operation of obtaining the volume control model corresponding to the identified noise control mode among a plurality of volume control models.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the operation of obtaining the volume control model may include: the operation of identifying the type of the media; and the operation of obtaining the volume control model according to the identified type of the media among a plurality of volume control models.

[0100] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a wearable electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 9, the wearable electronic device (902) may include a processor (920), memory (930), an acoustic receiving module (950), an acoustic output module (955), and a communication module (990).

[0102] The wearable electronic device (902) may be an earphone or headphone connected to an electronic device such as a smartphone, tablet PC, or laptop, but is not limited thereto.

[0103] The processor (920) can execute software to control at least one other component (e.g., hardware or software component) of the wearable electronic device (902) connected to the processor (920) and can perform various data processing or operations.

[0104] The processor (920) can control the operations of the wearable electronic device (902) by executing instructions stored in memory (930). For example, the processor (920) may correspond to a plurality of processors that divide and collectively perform a plurality of operations among the processors.

[0105] The processor (920) can be operatively connected to the memory (930), the sound receiving module (950), the sound output module (955), and the communication module (990).

[0106] The memory (930) can store various data used by at least one component of the wearable electronic device (902) (e.g., processor (920), acoustic receiving module (950), acoustic output module (955), and communication module (990)).

[0107] The acoustic receiving module (950) may include a microphone (951) for acquiring acoustic signals from the external environment of the wearable electronic device (902), but is not limited thereto.

[0108] The sound output module (955) may include, but is not limited to, a speaker (956) for outputting a sound signal of media from a wearable electronic device (902).

[0109] The communication module (990) may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth module for the wearable electronic device (902) to communicate with another electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (1001) of FIG. 10).

[0110] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an electronic device (1001) in a network environment (1000) according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 10, in the network environment (1000), the electronic device (1001) may communicate with an electronic device (1002) through a first network (1098) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network) or with an electronic device (1004) or a server (1008) through a second network (1099) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (1001) may communicate with the electronic device (1004) through a server (1008). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (1001) may include a processor (1020), memory (1030), input module (1050), sound output module (1055), display module (1060), audio module (1070), sensor module (1076), interface (1077), connection terminal (1078), haptic module (1079), camera module (1080), power management module (1088), battery (1089), communication module (1090), subscriber identification module (1096), or antenna module (1097). In some embodiments, at least one of these components (e.g., connection terminal (1078)) may be omitted from the electronic device (1001), or one or more other components may be added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., sensor module (1076), camera module (1080), or antenna module (1097)) may be integrated into a single component (e.g., display module (1060)).

[0111] The processor (1020) can, for example, execute software (e.g., program (1040)) to control at least one other component (e.g., hardware or software component) of the electronic device (1001) connected to the processor (1020) and can perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or operations, the processor (1020) can store commands or data received from other components (e.g., sensor module (1076) or communication module (1090)) in volatile memory (1032), process the commands or data stored in volatile memory (1032), and store the resulting data in non-volatile memory (1034). According to one embodiment, the processor (1020) may include a main processor (1021) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (1023) that can operate independently or together with it (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor). For example, if the electronic device (1001) includes a main processor (1021) and an auxiliary processor (1023), the auxiliary processor (1023) may be configured to use lower power than the main processor (1021) or to be specialized for a specified function. The auxiliary processor (1023) may be implemented separately from the main processor (1021) or as part thereof.

[0112] The auxiliary processor (1023) may control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one component of the electronic device (1001) (e.g., display module (1060), sensor module (1076), or communication module (1090)) on behalf of the main processor (1021) while the main processor (1021) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (1021) while the main processor (1021) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (1023) (e.g., image signal processor or communication processor) may be implemented as part of another functionally related component (e.g., camera module (1080) or communication module (1090)). According to one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (1023) (e.g., neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing an artificial intelligence model. The artificial intelligence model may be generated through machine learning. Such learning may be performed, for example, on the electronic device (1001) itself where the artificial intelligence is performed, or through a separate server (e.g., server (1008)). The learning algorithm may 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 may include a plurality of artificial neural network layers.An artificial neural network may be 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 the hardware structure, the artificial intelligence model may include a software structure, either additionally or substantially.

[0113] The number of processors (1020) may be one or more. For example, the processor (1020) may have the structure of a multi-core processor such as a dual core, a quad core, or a hexa core.

[0114] The processor (1020) can control the operations of the electronic device (1001) by executing instructions stored in the memory (1030). For example, the processor (1020) may correspond to a plurality of processors that divide and collectively perform a plurality of operations among the processors.

[0115] The memory (1030) can store various data used by at least one component of the electronic device (1001) (e.g., processor (1020) or sensor module (1076)). The data may include, for example, software (e.g., program (1040)) and input data or output data for related commands. The memory (1030) may include volatile memory (1032) or non-volatile memory (1034).

[0116] The program (1040) may be stored as software in memory (1030) and may include, for example, an operating system (1042), middleware (1044), or an application (1046).

[0117] The input module (1050) can receive commands or data to be used for a component of the electronic device (1001) (e.g., processor (1020)) from outside the electronic device (1001) (e.g., user). The input module (1050) may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0118] The sound output module (1055) can output a sound signal to the outside of the electronic device (1001). The sound output module (1055) may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker may be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver may be used to receive incoming calls. According to one embodiment, the receiver may be implemented separately from the speaker or as part thereof.

[0119] The display module (1060) can visually provide information to an external (e.g., user) of the electronic device (1001). The display module (1060) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling said device. According to one embodiment, the display module (1060) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of the force generated by said touch.

[0120] The audio module (1070) can convert sound into an electrical signal or, conversely, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (1070) can acquire sound through the input module (1050) or output sound through the sound output module (1055) or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1002)) (e.g., speaker or headphones) connected directly or wirelessly to the electronic device (1001).

[0121] The sensor module (1076) can detect the operating state of the electronic device (1001) (e.g., power or temperature) or the external environmental state (e.g., user state) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (1076) may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an accelerometer sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biosensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0122] The interface (1077) may support one or more specified protocols that can be used for the electronic device (1001) to be connected directly or wirelessly to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1002)). According to one embodiment, the interface (1077) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0123] The connection terminal (1078) may include a connector through which the electronic device (1001) can be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1002)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (1078) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0124] The haptic module (1079) can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., vibration or movement) or an electrical stimulus that the user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic senses. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (1079) may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulation device.

[0125] The camera module (1080) can capture still images and video. According to one embodiment, the camera module (1080) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0126] The power management module (1088) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (1001). According to one embodiment, the power management module (1088) can be implemented, for example, as at least part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0127] The battery (1089) can supply power to at least one component of the electronic device (1001). According to one embodiment, the battery (1089) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0128] The communication module (1090) can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between an electronic device (1001) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1002), electronic device (1004), or server (1008)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (1090) may include one or more communication processors that operate independently of the processor (1020) (e.g., application processor) and support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (1090) may include a wireless communication module (1092) (e.g., cellular communication module, short-range wireless communication module, or GNSS (global navigation satellite system) communication module) or a wired communication module (1094) (e.g., LAN (local area network) communication module, or power line communication module). The corresponding communication module among these communication modules can communicate with an external electronic device (1004) through a first network (1098) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi (wireless fidelity) direct, or IrDA (infrared data association)) or a second network (1099) (e.g., 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 may 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 (1092) can identify or authenticate the electronic device (1001) within a communication network such as the first network (1098) or the second network (1099) using subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (1096).

[0129] The wireless communication module (1092) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following 4G networks, for example, new radio access technology. NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (massive machine type communications (mMTC)), or high reliability and low latency (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications (URLLC)). The wireless communication module (1092) can support a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate, for example. The wireless communication module (1092) can support various technologies for securing performance in the high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive MIMO (multiple-input and multiple-output), full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large-scale antenna. The wireless communication module (1092) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (1001), external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (1004)), or network system (e.g., second network (1099)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (1092) can support a Peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for realizing eMBB, loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for realizing mMTC, or U-plane latency (e.g., downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) each 0.5 ms or less, or round trip 1 ms or less) for realizing URLLC.

[0130] An antenna module (1097) can transmit a signal or power to or from an external source (e.g., an external electronic device). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (1097) may include an antenna comprising a radiator made of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). According to one embodiment, the antenna module (1097) 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 a first network (1098) or a second network (1099), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by a communication module (1090). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (1090) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. According to some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, other components (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module (1097).

[0131] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (1097) may form a mmWave antenna module. According to one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent to a first surface (e.g., bottom surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a specified high frequency band (e.g., mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on or adjacent to a second surface (e.g., top surface or side surface) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving a signal of the specified high frequency band.

[0132] At least some of the above components can be connected to each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)) and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other.

[0133] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between an electronic device (1001) and an external electronic device (1004) through a server (1008) connected to a second network (1099). Each of the external electronic devices (1002, or 1004) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (1001). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations performed on the electronic device (1001) may be performed on one or more of the external electronic devices (1002, 1004, or 1008). For example, if the electronic device (1001) needs to perform a function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (1001) may request one or more external electronic devices to perform at least part of the function or service instead of performing the function or service itself or additionally. One or more external electronic devices that receive the above request may execute at least part of the requested function or service, or additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (1001). The electronic device (1001) may provide the result as is or additionally processed as at least part of the response to the request. For this purpose, for example, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used. The electronic device (1001) may provide ultra-low latency services using, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In one embodiment, the external electronic device (1004) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (1008) may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or neural networks.According to one embodiment, an external electronic device (1004) or server (1008) may be included within the second network (1099). The electronic device (1001) may be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0134] An electronic device (1001) according to one embodiment may be a wearable electronic device (902) described in FIGS. 1 to 9, and the electronic device (1001) may perform the operations of the wearable electronic device (902) in FIGS. 1 to 9. An electronic device (1001) according to one embodiment may communicate with the wearable electronic device (902) described in FIGS. 1 to 9, and the electronic device (1001) may cause the wearable electronic device (902) to perform the operations described in FIGS. 1 to 9. The electronic device (1001) may be paired with the wearable electronic device (902) to support communication, and either the electronic device (1001) or the wearable electronic device (902) may be considered as electronic devices paired with each other.

[0135] FIG. 11 is a block diagram (1100) of an audio module (1070) according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 11, the audio module (1070) may include, for example, an audio input interface (1110), an audio input mixer (1120), an analog to digital converter (ADC) (1130), an audio signal processor (1140), a digital to analog converter (DAC) (1150), an audio output mixer (1160), or an audio output interface (1170).

[0136] The audio input interface (1110) can receive an audio signal corresponding to sound obtained from outside the electronic device (1001) through a microphone (e.g., dynamic microphone, condenser microphone, or piezo microphone) configured separately from the electronic device (1001) or as part of the input module (1050). For example, if the audio signal is obtained from an external electronic device (1002) (e.g., headset or microphone), the audio input interface (1110) can receive the audio signal by being connected directly to the external electronic device (1002) through a connection terminal (1078) or wirelessly (e.g., Bluetooth communication) through a wireless communication module (1092). According to one embodiment, the audio input interface (1110) can receive a control signal (e.g., a volume adjustment signal received via an input button) related to the audio signal obtained from the external electronic device (1002). The audio input interface (1110) includes a plurality of audio input channels and can receive different audio signals for each corresponding audio input channel among the plurality of audio input channels. According to one embodiment, additionally or substantially, the audio input interface (1110) can receive audio signals from other components of the electronic device (1001) (e.g., a processor (1020) or a memory (1030)).

[0137] The audio input mixer (1120) can synthesize multiple input audio signals into at least one audio signal. For example, according to one embodiment, the audio input mixer (1120) can synthesize multiple analog audio signals input through the audio input interface (1110) into at least one analog audio signal.

[0138] The ADC (1130) can convert an analog audio signal into a digital audio signal. For example, according to one embodiment, the ADC (1130) can convert an analog audio signal received through the audio input interface (1110), or an analog audio signal synthesized through the audio input mixer (1120) additionally or substantially, into a digital audio signal.

[0139] The audio signal processor (1140) can perform various processing on a digital audio signal received through the ADC (1130) or a digital audio signal received from another component of the electronic device (1001). For example, according to one embodiment, the audio signal processor (1140) can perform changing the sampling rate, applying one or more filters, interpolation processing, amplification or attenuation of all or part of the frequency band, noise processing (e.g., noise or echo attenuation), channel changing (e.g., switching between mono and stereo), mixing, or specific signal extraction on one or more digital audio signals. According to one embodiment, one or more functions of the audio signal processor (1140) can be implemented in the form of an equalizer.

[0140] The DAC (1150) can convert a digital audio signal into an analog audio signal. For example, according to one embodiment, the DAC (1150) can convert a digital audio signal processed by an audio signal processor (1140) or a digital audio signal obtained from another component of the electronic device (1001) (e.g., a processor (1020) or a memory (1030)) into an analog audio signal.

[0141] The audio output mixer (1160) can synthesize multiple audio signals to be output into at least one audio signal. For example, according to one embodiment, the audio output mixer (1160) can synthesize an audio signal converted to analog through the DAC (1150) and another analog audio signal (e.g., an analog audio signal received through the audio input interface (1110)) into at least one analog audio signal.

[0142] The audio output interface (1170) can output an analog audio signal converted through the DAC (1150), or an analog audio signal additionally or substantially synthesized by the audio output mixer (1160), to the outside of the electronic device (1001) through the audio output module (1055). The audio output module (1055) may include, for example, a speaker or receiver such as a dynamic driver or a balanced armature driver. According to one embodiment, the audio output module (1055) may include a plurality of speakers. In this case, the audio output interface (1170) may output an audio signal having different plurality of channels (e.g., stereo, or 5.1 channels) through at least some of the plurality of speakers. According to one embodiment, the audio output interface (1170) can output an audio signal by being connected directly to an external electronic device (1002) (e.g., an external speaker or headset) through a connection terminal (1078) or wirelessly through a wireless communication module (1092).

[0143] According to one embodiment, the audio module (1070) may generate at least one digital audio signal by synthesizing a plurality of digital audio signals using at least one function of the audio signal processor (1140) without separately providing an audio input mixer (1120) or an audio output mixer (1160).

[0144] According to one embodiment, the audio module (1070) may include an audio amplifier (not shown) (e.g., a speaker amplifier circuit) capable of amplifying an analog audio signal input through an audio input interface (1110) or an audio signal to be output through an audio output interface (1170). According to one embodiment, the audio amplifier may be configured as a separate module from the audio module (1070).

[0145] The technical problems to be solved in this disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0146] An electronic device (902) according to one embodiment may include a microphone (951); a memory (930) for storing instructions; and one or more processors (920) including processing circuitry. When the instructions are executed individually or collectively by the one or more processors, the electronic device may be able to perform one or more operations. The one or more operations may include obtaining a volume control model representing a target signal level for a noise level. The one or more operations may include obtaining a first acoustic signal through the microphone of the electronic device. The one or more operations may include obtaining a second acoustic signal of the media based on the media being played at a playback volume by the electronic device or a paired electronic device. The one or more operations may include adjusting the playback volume based on the volume control model, a first intensity of the first acoustic signal corresponding to the noise level, and a second intensity of the second acoustic signal corresponding to the target signal level. One or more of the above operations may include updating the volume control model based on the playback volume continuing for a time exceeding a first threshold time.

[0147] In the electronic device according to one embodiment, the second intensity of the second acoustic signal may change while the media is being played at the playback volume.

[0148] In the electronic device according to one embodiment, the first intensity is calculated by weighted averaging the first intensity values ​​per unit time of the first acoustic signal, and the second intensity can be calculated by weighted averaging the second intensity values ​​per unit time of the second acoustic signal.

[0149] In the electronic device according to one embodiment, when the instructions are executed individually or jointly by the one or more processors, the electronic device may be able to: control the playback volume based on the second intensity being outside the threshold range of the target signal level corresponding to the noise level in the volume control model for a time exceeding the second threshold time.

[0150] In the electronic device according to one embodiment, the second threshold time may be shorter than the first threshold time.

[0151] In the electronic device according to one embodiment, when the instructions are executed individually or jointly by the one or more processors, the electronic device may be configured to: calculate the cumulative playback time per noise level range based on the first intensity; and correct the volume control model based on the cumulative playback time.

[0152] In the electronic device according to one embodiment, when the instructions are executed individually or jointly by the one or more processors, the electronic device may be configured to: estimate the sound dose of the user of the electronic device over a set period based on the accumulated playback time and the volume control model; and correct the volume control model so that the sound dose is below an allowable sound dose.

[0153] In the electronic device according to one embodiment, when the instructions are executed individually or jointly by the one or more processors, the electronic device may be able to: correct the parts corresponding to each of the noise level ranges in the volume control model based on the ratio of accumulated playback times corresponding to the noise level ranges.

[0154] In the electronic device according to one embodiment, when the instructions are executed individually or jointly by the one or more processors, the electronic device may be enabled to: identify a noise control mode set in the electronic device; and obtain a volume control model corresponding to the identified noise control mode among a plurality of volume control models.

[0155] In the electronic device according to one embodiment, when the instructions are executed individually or jointly by the one or more processors, the electronic device may be configured to: identify the type of the media; and obtain the volume control model according to the identified type of the media among a plurality of volume control models.

[0156] The effects obtainable from the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs.

[0157] The electronic device according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may be of various forms. The electronic device may include, for example, a portable communication device (e.g., a smartphone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a consumer electronics device. The electronic device according to the embodiments of this document is not limited to the devices described above.

[0158] The various embodiments of this document and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said 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 said items unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, phrases such as "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" may each include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish said components from other said components and do not limit said components in any other aspect (e.g., importance or order). Where any (e.g., 1st) component is referred to as “coupled” or “connected” to another (e.g., 2nd) component, with or without the terms “functionally” or “communicationly,” it means that said any component may be connected to said other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0159] The term “module” as used in the 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, for example. A module may be a component formed integrally, or a minimum unit of said component or a part thereof 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).

[0160] According to one embodiment, the method according to the various embodiments disclosed herein may be provided by being included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer 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 an application store (e.g., Play Store). TM It can be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) through ) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily created on a device-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0161] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., module or program) of the components described above may include a singular or multiple entities, and some of the multiple entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more of the components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Generally or additionally, multiple components (e.g., module or program) may be integrated into a single component. In this case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the multiple components in the same or similar manner as those performed by the corresponding component among the multiple components prior to integration. According to various embodiments, operations performed by the module, program, or other components 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 electronic devices: Microphone; Memory for storing instructions; and It includes one or more processors including processing circuitry, and When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the one or more processors, the electronic device: Acquire a volume control model representing a target signal level for a noise level; Acquiring a first acoustic signal through the microphone of the electronic device; Based on the media being played at a playback volume by the electronic device or a paired electronic device, a second acoustic signal of the media is obtained; Based on the above volume control model, the first intensity of the first acoustic signal corresponding to the noise level, and the second intensity of the second acoustic signal corresponding to the target signal level, the playback volume is controlled; An electronic device that updates the volume control model based on the fact that the above playback volume persists for a time exceeding a first threshold time.

2. In Paragraph 1, An electronic device in which the second intensity of the second sound signal changes while the media is being played at the above playback volume.

3. In Paragraph 1, The first intensity is calculated by weighted averaging the first intensities per unit time of the first acoustic signal, and The above second intensity is an electronic device calculated by weighted averaging the second intensities per unit time of the above second acoustic signal.

4. In Paragraph 1, When the above instructions are executed individually or jointly by the one or more processors, the electronic device: An electronic device that controls the playback volume based on the fact that, during a time exceeding a second threshold time, the second intensity deviates from the threshold range of the target signal level corresponding to the noise level in the volume control model.

5. In Paragraph 4, An electronic device in which the second threshold time is shorter than the first threshold time.

6. In Paragraph 1, When the above instructions are executed individually or jointly by the one or more processors, the electronic device: Calculate the cumulative playback time per noise level range based on the above first century; An electronic device that corrects the volume control model based on the above accumulated playback time.

7. In Paragraph 6, When the above instructions are executed individually or jointly by the one or more processors, the electronic device: Based on the above cumulative playback time and the above volume control model, the sound dose of the user of the electronic device during a set period is estimated; An electronic device that corrects the volume control model so that the above acoustic exposure amount is lower than the allowable acoustic exposure amount.

8. In Paragraph 7, When the above instructions are executed individually or jointly by the one or more processors, the electronic device: An electronic device that corrects parts corresponding to each of the noise level ranges in the volume control model based on the ratio of cumulative playback times corresponding to the noise level ranges.

9. In Paragraph 1, When the above instructions are executed individually or jointly by the one or more processors, the electronic device: Identifying the noise control mode set in the above electronic device; An electronic device for obtaining the volume control model corresponding to the identified noise control mode among a plurality of volume control models.

10. In Paragraph 1, When the above instructions are executed individually or jointly by the one or more processors, the electronic device: Identify the type of the above media; An electronic device that obtains a volume control model according to the identified type of the media among a plurality of volume control models.

11. An operation to acquire a volume control model representing a target signal level for a noise level; The operation of acquiring a first acoustic signal through a microphone of an electronic device; An operation to acquire a second acoustic signal of the media based on the media being played at a playback volume by the electronic device or a paired electronic device; An operation to adjust the playback volume based on the above volume control model, the first intensity of the first acoustic signal corresponding to the noise level, and the second intensity of the second acoustic signal corresponding to the target signal level; and A method comprising an operation to update the volume control model based on the fact that the above playback volume persists for a time exceeding a first threshold time.

12. In Paragraph 11, A method in which the second intensity of the second sound signal changes while the media is being played at the above playback volume.

13. In Paragraph 11, The first intensity is calculated by weighted averaging the first intensities per unit time of the first acoustic signal, and The above second intensity is calculated by a weighted average of the second intensities per unit time of the above second acoustic signal.

14. In Paragraph 11, The operation of adjusting the playback volume above is: A method comprising the operation of controlling the playback volume based on the fact that, during a time exceeding a second threshold time, the second intensity deviates from the threshold range of the target signal level corresponding to the noise level in the volume control model.

15. In Paragraph 11, An operation to calculate the cumulative playback time per noise level range based on the above first century; and A method further comprising an operation to correct the volume control model based on the accumulated playback time.

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