Smart microphone stand orienting toward sound using acoustic direction finding

Abstract

This invention relates to a smart microphone stand system that detects the direction of a sound source through sound localization and automatically orients toward the sound source using a pan-tilt mechanism controlled by a microcontroller circuit (12). Compared to stationary microphone stands, the system offers improved ease of use and operational efficiency, thanks to its ability to dynamically track sound sources. The invention eliminates the need for manual directional adjustment required in conventional systems. It provides enhanced sensitivity in speaker tracking and effective noise reduction, thereby offering a comprehensive solution in various fields, including the audio industry, education, conferences, broadcasting, voice command systems, and security implementations.

Description

[0001] SMART MICROPHONE STAND ORIENTING TOWARD SOUND USING ACOUSTIC DIRECTION FINDING

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] This invention encompasses technology related to fields such as sound localization, automatic tracking, and mechanical motion control. The system is a smart microphone stand solution that offers the ability to orient toward a sound source, thanks to a pantilt mechanism equipped with acoustic direction-finding capabilities. It is designed for use in various fields, including the audio industry, education, conferences, broadcasting, voice command systems, and security implementations.

[0004] State of the Art

[0005] In the state of the art, microphone arrays and acoustic direction-finding systems are commonly used to detect sound sources. These technologies employ various methods to determine the direction of a sound source accurately and are generally implemented effectively in applications such as conferences, security systems, and broadcasting. While microphone arrays analyze phase differences by using multiple microphones to detect a sound source, acoustic direction-finding systems track the sound source using more advanced signal processing techniques.

[0006] On the other hand, Pan-Tilt mechanisms are mostly used for the orientation of video cameras. These systems are dynamic mechanisms that automatically rotate a camera to a specific direction. However, solutions that automatically control the pan-tilt mechanisms by detecting a sound source and using this information, along with technologies that filter environmental noise and provide energy efficiency, are not commonly used. This type of integration has the potential to provide both efficiency and sensitivity in detecting a sound source and orienting a Pan-Tilt mechanism.

[0007] Current technologies still have significant shortcomings in terms of integrating automatic systems that focus on the sound source, reducing the impact of environmental noise, and increasing energy efficiency. While similar patents generally focus on detecting sound sources and orienting systems, integrating acoustic direction finding with an automatic Pan-Tilt mechanism can work more efficiently and without noise, but has not yet become widespread. This situation demonstrates that integrating pan-tilt mechanisms and acoustic direction-finding technologies warrants further investigation, and that such a combination could play a significant role in future innovations.

[0008] Brief Description and Purposes of the Invention

[0009] Conventional speech microphones exhibit limitations in capturing sound clearly and in transmitting the captured sound without being affected by external sounds. In particular, in noisy environments, distinguishing the desired speech signal from sounds originating from multiple directions becomes difficult. A speech microphone employing a triangulation technique and a pan-tilt mechanism aims to address these issues. Clear and high-quality sound recording and transmission in dynamic environments are enabled by the dynamic mechanism's ability and enhanced sound sensitivity. This innovative solution, designed for use in fields such as education, conferences, and broadcasting, offers superior performance in tracking speakers and reducing noise.

[0010] Technical Problems Solved by the Invention

[0011] 1. Speech Perception in High Noise Levels:

[0012] Static microphones may have difficulty accurately distinguishing speech signals in the presence of heavy background noise. The pan-tilt mechanism minimizes the perception of unwanted sounds by orienting the microphone toward the speaker.

[0013] 2. Dynamic Usage Scenarios:

[0014] The microphone is capable of automatically adjusting its orientation during speech by adapting to the speaker's movement without relying on a fixed position. This provides an advantage in dynamic environments such as meetings, instructional settings, and stage performances.

[0015] 3. Focusing Toward the Sound Source:

[0016] In multi-participant environments, the speaker's voice is clearly detected and distinguished from background sounds by automatically orienting the microphone to an optimal position. 4. Reduction of Manual Adjustment Requirements:

[0017] In conventional microphones, users are required to manually adjust the microphone to achieve an optimal position. The pan-tilt mechanism eliminates this requirement by automatically tracking the speaker.

[0018] Advantages Provided by the Invention:

[0019] 1 . Increasing Speech Quality:

[0020] Sound quality and perception are maximized by automatically orienting the microphone toward the speaker.

[0021] 2. Wide Range of Use:

[0022] The system adaptively operates in dynamic speech environments across various fields, including education, conferences, broadcasting, and theater.

[0023] 3. Real-Time Tracking System:

[0024] The system instantly adjusts the microphone's direction by rapidly detecting the speaker's movement.

[0025] 4. Sensitive Noise Filtering:

[0026] The ability to focus on the sound source enables the detection of the human voice and the transmission of clear speech by minimizing background sounds.

[0027] This invention offers an innovative solution that enhances user experience and improves sound perception accuracy by integrating a pan-tilt mechanism into speech microphones.

[0028] Description of Figures

[0029] Figure 1 : Front view of the invention

[0030] Figure 2: Algorithm diagram of the invention

[0031] Description of References in the Figures

[0032] In order to better explain the smart microphone stand according to the present invention, the components and elements illustrated in the figures are designated by reference numbers, and the corresponding meanings of each reference number are given below:

[0033] 1 : Microphone apparatus

[0034] 2: Black-coated aluminum plate

[0035] 3: Microphone modules

[0036] 4: Black-coated aluminum attachment

[0037] 5: Bearing

[0038] 6: Upper servo motor unit

[0039] 7: Servo motor

[0040] 8: Bearing

[0041] 9: Black-coated aluminum plate

[0042] 10: Lower servo motor unit

[0043] 11 : Servo motor

[0044] 12: Microcontroller circuit

[0045] 13: Adapter input

[0046] 14: Voltage reducer

[0047] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0048] This invention relates to a microphone system configured to detect and track the direction of a sound source. The system is configured to achieve optimal sound quality by dynamically adjusting the microphone's orientation via a pan-tilt mechanism in response to the direction of the sound source.

[0049] The invention comprises a microphone apparatus (1 ) configured to be attached to and secured on a microphone stand; a rectangular black-coated aluminum plate (2) on which the microphone apparatus (1 ) is mounted; three microphone modules (3) mounted on the aluminum plate (2), each positioned at a corner of an imaginary triangle, for implementing a triangulation technique to detect the direction and intensity of a sound source; a black-coated aluminum attachment (4) mounted on the plate (2) to provide a mechanical connection between a motor shaft and the plate; a bearing mounted on the aluminum attachment (4) and an upper servo motor unit (6) to enable rotary motion and allow passage of a motor shaft; an upper servo motor unit (6) within which a servo motor (7) is mounted, the unit having a black-coated aluminum outer housing that increases durability and provides mounting surfaces for components; the servo motor (7) being configured to provide approximately 180-degree tilt motion about a vertical axis of the aluminum plate (2) carrying the microphone apparatus (1 ); a bearing (8) configured to provide rotary motion and allow passage of another motor shaft; a black-coated aluminum plate (9) to which the bearing is attached for securing the upper servo motor unit (6) to a lower servo motor unit (10); a lower servo motor unit (10) within which a servo motor (11 ) is mounted, the lower servo motor unit (10) having a black-coated aluminum outer housing for enhanced durability and component mounting; the servo motor (11 ) being configured to provide approximately 180-degree pan motion about a horizontal axis; fastening elements such as screws for mechanical connections; a microcontroller circuit (12) configured to control the servo motors (7, 11 ) and to perform sound direction finding and tracking operations; an adapter input (13) and an adapter configured to supply operating voltage to the servo motors (7, 1 1 ); and a DC-DC voltage reducer (14) configured to reduce voltage received from the adapter input (13) to provide a required power supply to the microcontroller circuit (12).

[0050] The operation of the invention begins with the detection of the direction and intensity of a sound source by the microphone modules (3). The three microphone modules (3) are arranged at the corners of an imaginary triangle, thereby enabling detection of sound waves for directional analysis. Detected signals are transmitted to the microcontroller circuit (12). The microcontroller circuit (12) executes a software algorithm, wherein the intensity and direction of the sound source are determined by analyzing the signals using a triangulation technique, time difference of arrival (TDOA), and interaural level difference (ILD), while also performing power management at predetermined intervals. Low energy consumption is achieved by periodic data analysis. The system employs noise suppression and filtering techniques, including digital signal processing (DSP), beamforming, and frequency filtering, to reduce environmental noise levels. It then generates pulse-width modulation (PWM) control signals for the servo motors (7, 11 ) based on the processed data. The upper and lower servo motor units (6, 10) adjust the orientation of the microphone toward the sound source by controlling the pan-tilt mechanism. System power is supplied via an adapter and regulated by the voltage reducer. Industrial Applicability

[0051] This invention provides a smart microphone stand system that automatically tracks a sound source and orients the microphone accordingly by combining acoustic localization technology with a pan-tilt mechanism. This system can be used in various fields that require accurately tracking of sound sources in industry. For instance, it enhances sound recording quality in the broadcasting sector by providing a microphone that focuses on the speaker and reduces background noise. This is particularly important for clear sound transmission in radio, television, and online media production. The invention exhibits significant potential in dynamic environments such as educational settings and conferences, wherein the microphone automatically tracks the speaker to provide clear sound transmission under varying conditions.

[0052] The invention is also applicable in security and observation fields, wherein the system enables rapid response by tracking a sound source. This technology enhances interaction efficiency by accurately tracking sound sources in voice command systems and smart home applications. In autonomous robotic systems, robots can provide more accurate responses to voice commands by utilizing a microphone system. The invention further provides improved energy efficiency due to enhanced sound perception sensitivity and effective noise filtering. Automatic orientation of the microphone eliminates the need for manual adjustment, thereby enabling more efficient operation. The combination of acoustic direction-finding technology with advanced filtering techniques ensures high-quality sound transmission by clearly detecting the sound source. Accordingly, the invention delivers high efficiency and performance through its ability to track sound sources across multiple application sectors dynamically.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A smart microphone stand orientable toward a sound source using acoustic direction finding, configured for use in the audio industry, conferences, broadcasting, voice command systems, and security implementations, comprising:• three microphone modules (3) configured to determine the direction and proximity of a sound source using a triangulation technique;• upper and lower servo motor units (6, 10) configured to control a pan-tilt mechanism based on detected direction and proximity information of the sound source;• A microcontroller circuit (12) configured to execute a software algorithm for managing system operations; and• a DC-DC voltage reducer (14) configured to supply a required operating voltage to the microcontroller circuit (12) and other system components.

2. The upper servo unit (6) according to Claim 1 , characterized in that it comprises a black-coated aluminum plate (2) on which the microphone modules (3) are placed at equal distances for implementing an acoustic direction-finding process, and on which a microphone apparatus is mounted.

3. The upper and lower servo motor units (6,10) according to Claim 1 , characterized in that they comprise upper and lower servo motors (7, 11 ) mounted on the respective upper and lower servo units (6, 10) and configured to provide 180-degree right-left and up-down motion of the pan-tilt mechanism.

4. The upper and lower servo motor units (6, 10) according to Claim 1 , characterized in that they comprise a black-coated aluminum plate (9) configured to enable the operation of the pan-tilt mechanism.

5. The lower servo motor unit (10) according to Claim 1 , characterized in that it comprises an adapter input (13) configured to supply voltage to the DC-DC voltage reducer (14).

6. The black-coated aluminum plate (2) according to Claim 2, characterized in that it comprises a microphone apparatus (1 ) configured to secure the microphone to the microphone stand.

7. The black-coated aluminum plate (9) according to Claim 2, characterized in that it comprises a black-coated aluminum attachment (4) configured to provide relative movement for operation of the pan-tilt mechanism.

8. A method for detecting a direction of a sound source and orienting a microphone stand toward the sound source, comprising:• processing sound signals received from three microphone modules (3);• determining the direction and distance of the sound source using a triangulation technique;• actuating upper and lower servo motors (7, 1 1 ) based on the determined direction and distance in order to control a pan-tilt mechanism;• converting a supply voltage received from an adapter input to a reduced voltage using a DC-DC voltage reducer (14) to supply operating power to a microcontroller circuit (12) and other system components;• continuously analyzing sound data by the microcontroller circuit (12) using a software algorithm configured for dynamic tracking of the sound source in response to movement of the sound source;• applying advanced noise prevention and filtering techniques, including digital signal processing (DSP) and beamforming, during the determination of the direction and distance of the sound source to reduce environmental noise levels;• applying frequency filtering techniques to detect human voice signals preferentially; and• operating the system periodically in an optimized manner to achieve reduced energy consumption and improved energy efficiency.

9. Three microphone modules (3) according to Claim 8, characterized in that they implement a triangulation technique based on three reference points assumed to be located at the vertices of an imaginary triangle, such that each microphone module (3) detects the sound source accurately for applying the acoustic direction finding method.

10. The upper and lower servo motors (7, 1 1 ) according to Claim 8, characterized in that they form a pan-tilt mechanism, wherein a first servo motor (11 ) is configured to provide pan movement to create a 180-degree range of motion on a horizontal axis of the microphone stand, and a second servo motor (7) is configured to provide tilt movement to create a 180-degree range of motion on a vertical axis of the microphone stand.

11. The microcontroller circuit (12) according to Claim 8, characterized in that it determines the distance and direction of a sound source by analyzing a time differenceof arrival (TDOA) of sound signals received by different microphone modules (3) and an interaural level difference (ILD) based on signal data received from the microphone modules (3).

12. The microcontroller circuit (12) according to Claim 8, characterized in that it performs dynamic tracking of the sound source by continuously analyzing current sound data to track the movement of the sound source,13. The microcontroller circuit (12) according to Claim 8, characterized in that it applies noise prevention and filtering techniques, including DSP and beamforming, by analyzing TDOA and ILD to reduce environmental noise during the determination of the distance and direction of the sound source.

14. The microcontroller circuit (12) according to Claim 8, characterized in that it implements power management properties enabling long-term tracking by operating in predefined periods while being optimized to provide low energy consumption of the system.

15. The DC-DC voltage reducer (14) according to Claim 8, characterized in that it increases energy efficiency of the system by converting a high voltage received from the adapter input (13) into a lower voltage that is suitable for supplying power to components, including the microcontroller circuit (12) and the upper and lower servo motors (7, 11 ).

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