Mobile visitor guidance and / or information audio device and visitor guidance and / or information system
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/EP2025/057972
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-03-24
- Publication Date
- 2026-10-01
Smart Images
Figure EP2025057972_01102026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Sennheiser electronic SE & Co. KG
[0002] Am Labor 1 , 30900 Wedemark
[0003] Mobile Visitor Guidance and / or Information Audio Device and Visitor Guidance and / or Information System
[0004] The invention relates to a mobile visitor guidance and / or information audio device and visitorguidance and / or information system.
[0005] US 7,180,427 shows a visitor guidance system is for example used in a museum to guide a number of visitors. Each visitor can be presented with a mobile visitor guidance audio device e.g. in form of a body pack receiver to receive wireless audio signals and to render the audio signals associated to exhibits.
[0006] EP 3 117 632 B1 discloses a mobile device for immersive sound experiences and a modular system for managing multimedia content distribution in visitor environments such as museums, exhibitions, or tourist sites. The system integrates features like location-based services, content personalization, and user interaction tracking. It provides a tool for enhancing visitor engagement by delivering immersive and context- re leva nt information.
[0007] It is an object of the invention to further improve a mobile visitor guidance and / or information audio device as well as a visitor guidance and / or information system, in particular its user friendliness and accuracy.
[0008] This object is solved by a mobile visitor guidance and / or information audio device according to claim 1.
[0009] The mobile visitor guidance and / or information audio device is provided for a user which intends to use a visitor guidance and / or information system. The mobile visitor guidance audio device can have mechanical and / or electronic features which enable an improved visitor guidance experience. A visitor can wear the mobile visitor guidance audio device for example at the chest. Hence, the mobile visitor guidance audio device can be a wearable device.
[0010] The mobile visitor guidance and / or information audio device comprises a position detector and / or an orientation detector. Based on the position information of the position detector and / or the orientation information from the orientation tracker, the mobile visitor guidance
[0011] audio device can determine its position and / or orientation within the visitor guidance system. The mobile visitor guidance audio device comprises a memory where audio data like audio items or audio information with respect to the visitor guidance system is stored. In particular, audio items like audio files relating to objects in the visitor guidance system can be stored. Based on the position information and / or orientation information of the mobile visitor guidance audio device, a controller of the audio device can determine which of the audio items stored in the memory is most relevant and can select such an audio file which is to be rendered by an audio Tenderer of the mobile visitor guidance audio device. The rendering of the selected audio file can be performed e.g. via a headphone coupled to the mobile visitor guidance audio device. The rendering of the audio file can be adapted by an immersive audio engine to the position and / or orientation of the user to enable an immersive audio experience.
[0012] A mobile visitor guidance and / or information audio device is provided. The device comprises a position detector detecting a position of the mobile visitor guidance audio device within a visitor guidance environment, data interface for receiving audio data and at least one description file comprising rendering operation instructions, a memory for storing the audio data and the at least one description file received via the data contacts, and an audio Tenderer for rendering audio data stored in the memory based on the position information from the position detector and the rendering operation instructions from the description file. The rendering operation instructions comprises rendering position information associated with the audio data from the memory, the rendering position information indicate at which position information an audio data is to be rendered.
[0013] The data interface can be implemented as data contacts. The data contacts can also serve as charging contacts to charge a battery of the mobile visitor guidance audio device.
[0014] According to an example, the operation instructions, like rendering information comprise rendering timing information associated with the audio data from the memory, the rendering timing information indicate at which timing information an audio data is to be rendered.
[0015] According to an example an orientation detector for detecting an orientation of the mobile visitor guidance audio device is provided. The audio Tenderer comprises an immersive audio engine configured to render immersive audio based on the detected orientation of the mobile visitor guidance audio device, the audio data stored in the memory and the rendering operation instruction, wherein the rendering operation instruction comprises immersiveaudio rending information enabling an immersive audio rendering. Thus, an immersive audio experience is enabled.
[0016] According to an example a mobile visitor guidance audio device comprises a housing, and a necklet in form of a hook being configured to be worn around a neck of a user. The necklet is coupled to the housing such that the housing can be carried on a chest of a user when the necklet is around the neck of the user. The necklet can be coupled to the housing in a torque proof way such that the housing (and with it the electronics inside the housing) changes it orientation when the user changes his orientation.
[0017] According to an example the necklet comprises a necklet attachment. The housing is formed by a housing rear side, a housing front side and the necklet attachment. The necklet attachment is realizably coupled to the housing rear side and the housing front side. Hence, the necklet can be removed or replaced. The necklet attachment can be in form of a bracket which is at least partially integrated into the housing (front and rear side).
[0018] According to an example, the necklet comprises headphone hook configured to receive a headphone. Thus, the headphone can be easily stored together with the housing e.g. in a charging cradle.
[0019] According to an example the housing comprises an audio output configured to be coupled to the headphone and a spooling unit configured to receive part of a headphone cable of a headphone coupled to the mobile visitor guidance audio device. The spooling unit inside the housing allows to shorten excess cable to reduce cable clutter and entanglement.
[0020] According to an example the spooling unit comprises at least one spool configured to receive the headphone cable to adjust a free length of the headphone cable between the housing and the headphone. The excess cable can be coiled inside the visitor device, hidden to the visitors. The spooling unit facilitates coiling as well as swapping headphones if one should become faulty.
[0021] The invention also relates to a method of rendering audio in a visitor guidance and / or information system comprising at least one mobile visitor guidance audio device. A position of the mobile visitor guidance audio device is detected within a visitor guidance environment by a position detector. Audio data and at least one description file comprising rendering operation instruction is received via a data interface. The audio data and the at least one description file received via the data interface are stored in a memory. Audio data stored inthe memory are rendered based on the position information from the position detector and the rendering operation instruction from the description file by an audio Tenderer. The rendering operation instruction comprises rendering position information associated with the audio data from the memory, the rendering position information indicate at which position information an audio data is to be rendered.
[0022] The invention also relates to a visitor guidance and / or information system comprising a visitor guidance environment having at least on object, at least two beacons configured to transmit signals and at least one mobile visitor guidance audio device as described above.
[0023] According to an example, the mobile visitor guidance audio device receives the required audio samples and audio files before the user starts its journey through the visitor guidance system. For example during a setup of the mobile visitor guidance audio device, all required audio files and additional position information can be transferred and stored in the memory. Accordingly, during a journey of the user through the visitor guidance system, the mobile visitor guidance audio device does not need to receive audio files or audio samples. In fact, according to an example, the mobile visitor guidance audio device only needs to extract the required audio samples or audio files from the memory of the audio device to be able to render it.
[0024] Optionally, the audio device can comprise an RF receiver to receive additional information (like updated information or emergency information).
[0025] The position detection of the mobile visitor guidance audio device can be performed by receiving signals from position beacons within a visitor guidance environment. For example, based on triangulation, the mobile visitor guidance audio device can determine its position within a visitor guidance environment. Based on this position information, the required audio file or audio sample can be selected from the memory. In addition, if orientation information is present, the immersive audio engine can enable an immersive audio rendering.
[0026] Accordingly, the visitor guidance can be self-sufficient after the audio files and the description files are stored in the memory. The position information is detected by the audio device itself.
[0027] A visitor guidance system comprises a plurality of mobile visitor guidance audio devices. The audio devices are worn by the users of the visitor guidance system. The audio devices are able to store at least one audio file which is to be rendered at a certain time and / or ata certain position within the visitor guidance system. The visitor guidance system may also comprise several beacons which can be used to determine a position of a mobile visitor guidance audio device.
[0028] The mobile audio device can implement an immersive audio functionality, e. g. by means of an immersive audio engine. Immersive audio refers to an advanced auditory experience integrated into the visitor guidance system, and is designed to create a realistic, engaging, and spatially accurate sound environment that enhances the user's perception, orientation, and interaction within the visitor guidance system.
[0029] The immersive audio implementation of the mobile audio device can employ technologies such as binaural sound, spatial audio rendering, multi-channel surround sound, or objectbased audio encoding to simulate or augment the acoustic environment. By dynamically adjusting audio output based on the user's real-time position, orientation, and movement within the guided environment, the system can ensure that the auditory experience remains contextually relevant and seamlessly integrated with the surroundings.
[0030] The immersive audio implementation can include directional cues. Here, spatial audio is used to guide visitors by simulating sounds originating from specific directions or locations. This can help users navigate the environment intuitively.
[0031] The immersive audio implementation can also include environmental augmentation. Here, the reproduction or enhancement of ambient sounds (such as nature sounds, crowd noise, or machinery) can improve or reinforce the setting's authenticity or create thematic atmospheres.
[0032] Moreover, the immersive audio implementation can include contextual narration. Hence, personalized or location-specific audio descriptions may be used to provide information, stories, or instructions directly relevant to the user's position and activity.
[0033] Furthermore, the immersive audio implementation can include dynamic adaptation, which refers to an ability of the system to modify audio properties, such as volume, frequency, or spatial characteristics, in response to user actions, environmental changes, or interactive elements.The immersive audio implementation can be realized by using the mobile visitor guidance audio device and a headphone, together with an immersive audio algorithm for sound processing, synchronization, and positional tracking. The immersive audio algorithm can be performed by the immersive audio engine. Hereby it can be ensured that an immersive auditory experience that enhances the overall functionality and appeal of the visitor guidance system, fostering deeper engagement and a more intuitive understanding of the environment can be provided.
[0034] The inputs for the immersive audio engine are the audio files or audio clips to be rendered as well as position and orientation information. These can be stored in a memory of the mobile visitor guidance audio device. The rendering of the audio files or audio clips via a headphone coupled to the mobile visitor guidance audio device is adapted based on the position and orientation of the user within a space or room.
[0035] The visitor guidance and / or information audio device comprises the necklet which is stiff enough to keep the intended shape and positioning of the headphones while charging. On the other hand, the shape needs to fulfill ergonomic requirements to fit many different body types and sizes and to prevent any pressure points. The headphones stand can be integrated into the design and has a small hook integrated to secure the headphones additionally while handling the device.
[0036] The visitor guidance and / or information audio device permits a user (visitor of an exhibition or trade fair) only to adjust the volume of the audio output and does not require any additional input from the user. Playback options (tour no., language, ...) are configured at the handout of the experience device at the front desk when the device is still in a charging cradle tray in contact with a charging cradle base.
[0037] The main components of the experience device are a housing accommodating electronic components connected with a single-sided necklet having an integrated hook for a headset. The necklet can also be replaced by a lanyard.
[0038] The visitor guidance and / or information audio device comprises a memory for storing audio clips e.g. for all available tours in all available languages. The visitor guidance audio device further comprises a position detector for UWB (“ultra-wide band”) position detection and a body tracker or orientation tracker for tracking the orientation of the visitor guidance audio device in the room. The orientation of the visitor guidance audio device corresponds the orientation of the person wearing the visitor guidance audio device. The position detectorand the body tracker enable the visitor guidance audio device to detect locomotion data for controlling the playback of audio clips consistent with a description file loaded in a working memory and executed by a processor of the visitor guidance audio device. The description file determines which audio clip is played back in response of the detected locomotion (position, body, and if implemented, head tracking) data.
[0039] Optionally, a head tracker is implemented in the necklet of the visitor guidance audio device for producing headtracking data that may describe the movement of the user’s head in 6 dimensions of freedom (DoF; X, Y, Z plus rotation around these axes). A head tracking sensor can be implemented as gyroscope or magnetometer. If available, the headtracking data is considered when rendering the audio playback from a certain position in the room to create the illusion of a spatially fixed sound source even when the user moves his or her head.
[0040] The housing of the visitor guidance and / or information audio device can accommodate a spooling unit (like a cable spool) to adapt the length of the headphone cable by service person / front desk staff. This is necessary because different museums may use different headphone types with different cable lengths. Furthermore, headphones need to be replaced from time to time and the cable length of new headphones needs to be adapted. When the front desk staff opens the cover of the visitor guidance audio device only a backside of a base plate is exposed and sensitive electronic components are on the opposite side of the base plate where they are protected against unintentional damaging.
[0041] The housing of the visitor guidance and / or information audio device comprises contacts on its outside. The contacts transfer charging current to an integrated rechargeable battery and data of a description file received from a docking station.
[0042] The visitor guidance audio device may be programmed such that a playback or rendering of an audio file is triggered only if one or several of the following conditions are met: a) the user enters a trigger area; b) a dwelling time is exceeded because the user spends a sufficiently long time in front of an exhibition object / within a trigger area so it can be assumed that the user is interested in more information; c) the user moves at a speed that is lower than a threshold speed (the threshold speed indicates that the user is moving fast and is not interested in any of the exhibited objects); d) head tracking (special functions may be triggered by analyzing the head tracking data) does not provide a counter-indication for playing back the audio file (e.g. the user does not look at the object for a predefined period of time).The description file or the rendering operation instructions comprise a set of parameters and / or instructions which have been composed or generated by a sound designer during a configuration of the visitor guidance system. They are the basis of the audio rendering operation of the mobile visitor guidance audio device. The operation instructions include information where and when as well as which audio item is to be rendered. The audio rendering operation is position dependent.
[0043] The description file or the rendering operation instructions can also comprise immersive audio information or instructions, timing information (sync timing information), and / or information on orientation dependent audio rendering. The description file can also comprise event trigger information, i.e. information or parameter which relate to an event that can trigger an operation ora change of operation. Such an event can be e.g. entering or leaving the vicinity of an exhibit.
[0044] The visitor guidance environment can be an exhibition, a museum, a gallery or a trade fair.
[0045] The audio data received via the data interface can be audio items like an audio file, an audio signal or an audio clip. The audio data can comprise music and / or speech.
[0046] The visitor guidance system can be a visitor guidance and information system.
[0047] The audio items in the memory can be tagged to position information to ensure that the right audio item is rendered at a specific position.
[0048] The mobile visitor guidance and / or information audio device can be implemented as a dedicated device as described below or a mobile electronic device such as a smartphone or tablet, wherein its operation is controlled by an application running on the mobile electronic device.
[0049] The mobile visitor guidance and / or information audio device can be coupled to a head tracker to receive head tracking information, which can be used by the audio Tenderer.
[0050] According to an example, all audio items of a visitor guidance and / or information system can be stored in a memory of the mobile visitor guidance and / or information system. Hence, only the respective description files need to be transferred to audio device when the audio device is handed out at the visitor guidance and / or information system.Further aspects of the invention are described in the dependent claims.
[0051] Examples and advantages of the invention are described with reference to the figures.
[0052] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a visitor guidance and / or information system,
[0053] Fig. 2A each show a schematic representation of a mobile visitor guidance and 2B audio device.
[0054] Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of a necklet of a mobile visitor guidance audio device of Fig. 2A and 2B
[0055] Fig. 4 shows a block diagram of the mobile visitor guidance audio device, Fig. 5A shows a schematic representation of a housing of the of the mobile and 5B visitor guidance audio device, and
[0056] Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of a spooling unit of the of the mobile visitor guidance audio device, and
[0057] Fig. 7 shows a docking station with a number of mobile visitor guidance audio devices.
[0058] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a visitor guidance and / or information system. The visitor guidance and / or information system 10 can comprise at least one mobile visitor guidance and / or information audio device 100 and several position beacons 400 within a visitor guidance environment 11. In the visitor guidance environment 11 , at least one object 500 can be present for which an audio signal is to be rendered by the mobile audio device 100. The mobile visitor guidance and / or information audio device 100 can detect its position based on signals 401 received from the position beacons 400. For example by means of triangulation, the mobile visitor guidance audio device 100 can determine its position within the visitor guidance environment 11. The position beacon 400 can wireless emit a position indication signal 401.
[0059] Fig. 2A and 2B each show a schematic representation of a mobile visitor guidance and / or information audio device. Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of a necklet of a mobile visitor guidance audio device of Fig. 2A and 2B. In the Figs. 2A - Fig. 3, several mechanical aspects of the mobile visitor guidance audio device 100 are depicted. The mobile visitor guidance audio device 100 comprises a housing 120 and a necklet 110. The necklet 110can be detachable. The necklet 110 comprises a first and second end 111 , 112 and optionally a headphone hook 113. At the first end 111 a necklet attachment 114 with a first, second and third attachment portion 115, 116, 117 is provided. The first attachment portion 115 is an extension of the first end 111 of the necklet 110. The second attachment portion 116 is arranged in parallel and at a distance to the first attachment portion 115. The third attachment portion 117 is arranged between the first and second attachment portion 115, 116. The necklet attachment 114 is designed to enclose at least partially an upper part of the housing 120.
[0060] The housing 120 comprises of a housing rear side 121 , a housing front side 122 as well as the necklet attachment 114. The necklet attachment 114 can be part of the housing 120, namely the part of the wall of housing 120.
[0061] The necklet arrangement 114 together with the necklet 110 can be easily removed and optionally replaced by e.g. a lanyard adapter.
[0062] At the housing front side 122, at least two operating elements in form of e. g. a volume plus 123 and volume minus 124 can be present. At a bottom end or lower end of the housing 120 a contact opening 125 can be present in the housing 120.
[0063] The housing front side 122 and the housing rear side 121 can partially enclose the audio device having an open portion which can be enclosed by the necklet attachment 114.
[0064] Fig. 4 show a block diagram of the mobile visitor guidance audio device. Here, the different electronic components of the audio device 100 are described. The mobile visitor guidance audio device 100 comprises an audio output 143 for a headphone, an interface, e.g. electrical contacts 151 for charging and / or data exchange, a memory 152, a controller 153, a position detector 154, an orientation tracker 155, an audio Tenderer 156, an accumulator 158 and optionally an RF transceiver 157. The mobile visitor guidance audio device 100 serves to render audio files stored in its memory 152 in accordance with position information from the position detector 154 and / or orientation information from the orientation tracker 155. Accordingly, as the user moves through the visitor guidance environment 11 carrying the visitor guidance audio device 100, the visitor guidance audio device 100 renders different audio files depending on the position of the user.
[0065] The interface can be implemented as electrical contacts 151 which can be used as data contacts to transfer data to the mobile visitor guidance audio device. The electrical contacts151 can be a data interface. The electrical contacts 151 can also be used as charging contacts. The mobile visitor guidance audio device can also have a wireless interface, which can be used for a wireless data exchange to receive a description file comprising operation instructions.
[0066] The electronic components described in Fig. 4 can be included into the housing 120 of the mobile visitor guidance audio device 100 of Fig. 2.
[0067] The necklet 110 can be firmly connected to the housing 120 of the audio device 100. The necklet 110 can be used to wear the audio device 100 around a neck of a user. Accordingly, when a user turns his body, the audio device 100 will also be turned accordingly. By means of the orientation tracker 155 in the housing 120, an orientation of the audio device 100 and thus an orientation of the user can be determined.
[0068] Preferably, the necklet 110 is implemented as a single-sided necklet. The hook 113 can be used to attach a headphone. Alternatively, the necklet 110 can also be replaced by a lanyard. Here, the housing 120 can comprise a lanyard adapter.
[0069] The memory 152 in the audio device 100 is designed to store audio clips or audio files which can be rendered by the audio device for example at specific positions within a visitor guidance system. In addition to the audio clips or audio files, the memory 152 can also store additional information relating to a position and / or orientation for each of the audio clips or audio files. Accordingly, a specific audio clip or audio file can be rendered when the audio device is at a specific position within the visitor guidance environment 11.
[0070] The additional information can also comprise information required for an immersive audio rendering. For example, the information may include position information of virtual loudspeakers associated to the visitor guidance environment. For example, for a specific room in the visitor guidance environment 11 , several virtual loudspeakers may be associated to the room. The immersive audio engine can perform an immersive audio algorithm based on the position and orientation of a user within the visitor guidance environment taking into account the position of the virtual loudspeakers. Accordingly, the user can experience an immersive audio depending on its position and orientation. For example, if the user turns and therefore his orientation with respect to the virtual loudspeakers is changed, the immersive audio engine can adapt the audio rendering to adapt the immersive audio experience such that the user experiences the rendering of audio signals from the virtual loudspeakers accordingly.The position detector 154 can be used to detect a position of the audio device within a visitor guidance system. The orientation tracker 155 can be implemented as a body tracker. As the housing 120 of the audio device 100 lies on a chest of a user when the necklet 110 is worn around the neck of the user, any changes in orientation of the user can be detected by the orientation tracker 155.
[0071] By means of the position detector 154 and the orientation tracker 155, the audio device 100 can determine its position within the visitor guidance system as well as the orientation of the user with respect to the visitor guidance system. Accordingly, audio files associated to a specific position information can be rendered by the audio device. Moreover, based on the orientation information, a binaural rendering of the associated audio files can be rendered by the audio device 100.
[0072] The interface (e.g. charging I data electrical contacts) 151 can be used for charging the accumulator 158 of the audio device. Moreover, data (audio clips, audio files, description files, additional immersive audio information) can be transmitted via these contacts to the memory 152. This data can comprise audio files, information on the audio files, description files and / or immersive audio information which contain a logic describing which audio file is rendered in response to a detected position and / or orientation etc. The description files can also include information on a positional range, where an audio file is to be rendered. The description file may also comprise further information. The description files can comprise timing information.
[0073] The audio Tenderer 156 can comprise an immersive audio engine 156a. The mobile audio device 100 can thus implement an immersive audio functionality implemented by the immersive audio engine 156a. Immersive audio refers to an advanced auditory experience integrated into the visitor guidance system, and is designed to create a realistic, engaging, and spatially accurate sound environment that enhances the user's perception, orientation, and interaction within the visitor guidance system.
[0074] The immersive audio implementation of the mobile audio device can employ technologies such as binaural sound, spatial audio rendering, multi-channel surround sound, or objectbased audio encoding to simulate or augment the acoustic environment. By dynamically adjusting audio output based on the user's real-time position, orientation, and movement within the guided environment, the system ensures that the auditory experience remains contextually relevant and seamlessly integrated with the surroundings.The immersive audio implementation can include directional cues. Here, spatial audio is used to guide visitors by simulating sounds originating from specific directions or locations. This can help users navigate the environment intuitively. The immersive audio implementation can also include environmental augmentation. Here, the reproduction or enhancement of ambient sounds (such as nature sounds, crowd noise, or machinery) can improve or reinforce the setting's authenticity or create thematic atmospheres. Moreover, the immersive audio implementation can include contextual narration. Hence, personalized or location-specific audio descriptions may be used to provide information, stories, or instructions directly relevant to the user's position and activity. Furthermore, the immersive audio implementation can include dynamic adaptation, which refers to an ability of the system to modify audio properties, such as volume, frequency, or spatial characteristics, in response to user actions, environmental changes, or interactive elements.
[0075] The immersive audio implementation can be realized by using the mobile visitor guidance audio device and headphones, together with an immersive audio algorithm for sound processing, synchronization, and positional tracking. Hereby it can be ensured that an immersive auditory experience that enhances the overall functionality and appeal of the visitor guidance system, fostering deeper engagement and a more intuitive understanding of the environment can be provided.
[0076] The mobile visitor guidance audio device can comprise an immersive audio engine. The inputs for the immersive audio engine are the audio files or audio clips to be rendered as well as position and orientation information. The rendering of the audio files or audio clips via a headphone coupled to the mobile visitor guidance audio device is adapted based on the position and orientation of the user within a space or room.
[0077] The audio Tenderer 156 can be implemented as a binaural rendering engine for rendering audio signals using a head related transfer function. Multiple (virtual) audio sources can be rendered simultaneously and can be mixed dynamically based on the user position, a user orientation and information contained in the description files. Accordingly, with such a mobile visitor guidance audio device, it is possible to create sound designs ranging from a simple stereo experience to a complex augmented audio design.
[0078] The position detection of the position detector 154 can be based on an ultra-wide band radio communication. Optionally, the audio device 100 comprises an RF transceiver 157 which can be used for Bluetooth or WiFi communication. The RF transceiver 157 can be used for data input or bidirectional communication. The RF transceiver 157 (as a Bluetoothradio) can communicate with a light / show control system to trigger an activation of lighting, video or other effects when a user wearing the audio device approaches a position range (e.g. as defined by the description files). The RF transceiver 157 can also alternatively implement Bluetooth low energy communication in order to read Bluetooth low energy data. These data can be combined with the audio files, the description files and position information in order to alter parameters of the immersive audio implementation and / or trigger a playback of a particular audio file.
[0079] The RF transceiver 157 can also be implemented as a WiFi transceiver to allow a creation of ad-hock tour groups of several audio devices. Here, for example a guide with a microphone which can be attached to an audio device can communicate to a group of mobile visitor guidance audio devices. Respective mobile visitor guidance audio devices can receive the audio file created by the guide and is able to render it. The rendering can be performed with a mix alongside other predefined audio files.
[0080] The position detector 154 can be embodied to receive UWB signals from several UWB anchors within the video guidance system. The UWB anchors are stationary. By means of triangulation, the position detector 154 can calculate its current position. The position detection by the position detector 154 can be performed continuously or at time intervals.
[0081] The orientation tracker 155 serves to detect an orientation of the audio device 100. The detected orientation can be used if audio signals (stored in the memory 152) are to be reproduced as immersive audio from a certain direction in order to enable a binaural rendering for the user. When the user changes its relative orientation, this can be detected by the orientation tracker 155. The orientation information can be used to adapt the immersive rendering of an audio signal such that the rendered audio signal is coming from the desired position or at least that the user perceives that the audio signal is coming from a specific position. Accordingly, the orientation tracker 155 enables a rendering of immersive and / or augmented audio signals.
[0082] In addition or alternatively to the orientation device 155, a head tracker can be used. The head tracker can for example be implemented in a headphone or as an accessory attachable to a headband. The head tracker provides information regarding the head orientation of a user. The head tracker can comprise a sensor implemented as a gyroscope with or without a magnetometer. The head tracking data can be forwarded to the audio device wirelessly or via cable and the head tracking information can be used to adapt a rendering of an audio file. The rendering of an audio file can furthermore be adapted as describedabove with reference to the orientation detector such that an augmented audio rendering or a binaural audio rendering can be performed.
[0083] The controller 153 can comprise a controller clock 153a. The controller clock 153a is used to provide time information. For example, the controller 153 can track the position information as well as the time information and can initiate a rendering of an audio file or audio clip based on the position information as well as the timing information. As an example, the rendering of an audio file is only initiated if the position information does not change for a predetermined period of time. Thus, the controller can determine whether the user is walking through a visitor guidance environment or whether the user is pausing or standing in front of an object. If the controller detects that the user is pausing or standing in front of an object, then the rendering of an audio file associated to this position can be initiated. Otherwise, if the controller 153 detects that the user is walking by the object, the rendering of the associated audio file is not initiated. This is advantageous as accidental rendering of an audio file associated to an object past which the user is walking can be avoided.
[0084] Accordingly, the mobile visitor guidance audio device can use position information, orientation information as well as timing information to determine an audio file which is to be rendered.
[0085] Fig. 5A and 5B each show a schematic representation of part of the mobile visitor guidance audio device. Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of the spooling unit. In Fig. 5A and 5B, the mechanical components of the audio device 100 are depicted. In Fig. 5A and 5B, a housing rear side 121 and parts of the necklet 110 as well as the interior compartment 140 are depicted. In the interior compartment 140, an audio output 143 in form of a jack 143 for coupling a headphone is present. Furthermore, a spooling unit compartment 142 for receiving a spooling unit 130 is depicted. The spooling unit 130 comprises a first and second spool 131 , 132. The spooling unit 130 is used to accommodate a cable of a headphone connected to the audio device. By means of the spooling unit 130, the free length of the headphone cable can be adjusted.
[0086] The necklet 110 with its first necklet end 111 is disclosed. At the first necklet end 111 , a portion 114 is arranged which encircles a part of the inner component 140. At a necklet attachment 114, a recess 145 is present. The recess 145 is used to accommodate a cable of the headphone. In the spooling unit compartment 142, two spooling protrusions 142a are present which are used to hold the spooling unit 130 when it is placed inside the spooling unit compartment 142.At the lower end of the housing 120, the electrical contacts (for data and / or charging) are present. When the housing is closed by fastening the front side 122 to the rear side 121 , the electrical contacts are accessible.
[0087] The housing, namely in particular the front side 122, can be opened to access the inner compartment 140. The spooling unit 130 is used to adapt a free length of a headphone cable. This allows an integration of different headphone types with different lengths of headphone cables. The free length of the headphone cable can be adapted such that a headphone can be comfortably worn by a user while the user is also wearing the necklet around his head.
[0088] Thus, a robust and easy to maintain housing of the audio device is provided which can be easily accessed by maintenance personnel. Furthermore, the configuration of the housing 120 allows an easy replacement of headphones and an easy adjustment of the headphone (in particular the free cable length) to the preference or requirements of a user.
[0089] Furthermore, the inner compartment 140 can comprise a battery / accumulator compartment 146 for receiving an accumulator or a battery which can be replaced when the front side 122 is removed.
[0090] Optionally, the necklet can be replaced by a lanyard adapter.
[0091] The inner compartment 140 also comprises a separation wall 144 which separates the inner compartment 140 from the electronics of the audio device. The electronics of the audio device can be arranged between the separation wall 144 and the rear side 121 of the housing. This is advantageous as the electronics will not be easily accessible when the front side 122 is removed. Thus, the sensitive electronics can be protected.
[0092] The electronic contacts 151 can be used to charge the accumulator 158. Furthermore, the contact 151 can be used to transfer data to the memory 152. The data can comprise audio data, meta data and at least one description file. The description file contains information on which audio file is to be rendered at specific positions. The description file may also comprise information on performing a binaural rendering. Based on the description file and the detected position as well as the detected orientation, the audio device can binaurally render the audio file.Fig. 7 shows a docking station for the audio devices. The docking station 200 comprises a charging cradle 202 with a number of receiving sections 210 as charging pickups bays each with electrical contacts which match the electrical contacts 151 of the audio devices. The charging cradle 202 comprises a main surface 201 into which the receiving sections 210 are provided. The receiving sections (charging pickup bays) 210 are arranged at an angle which is not perpendicular. The audio devices 100 with their electrical contacts can be inserted into the sections 210. The sections 210 can be arranged at an angle smaller than 90°. The tilted angle of the section 210 and thus the tilted arrangement of the housing 120 of the mobile audio devices are advantageous as they allow fora more stable insertion of the housing 120. As can be seen in Fig. 7, on the necklet of the audio devices, a headphone 300 is provided. The hook 113 is therefore advantageous as it can receive the headphone 300.
[0093] The charging cradle of the docking station comprises a number of connectors which allow a daisy chaining of a plurality of receiving section (charging pickup bays). Furthermore, the docking station allows a data transmission from an external device via the docking station to the audio devices. Therefore, the docking station also comprises a data interface to receive the respective information. The docking station 200 which serves as a charging station comprises a number of pickup bays (receiving sections) for receiving a mobile audio device, respectively. Each pickup bay comprises electrical contacts which correspond to the electrical contacts of the audio device. These contacts are used for charging the accumulator of the mobile device as well as for data transmission. Preferably, the contacts are fitted with a poka-yoke or tab system preventing replacement of the audio device into the pickup bays in a wrong direction. To enable this, a protruding plastic element can be provided in the charging tray which fits into a cavity in the bottom of the audio device.
[0094] The visitor audio device has two distinct states namely charging / data exchange and being used I worn during the exhibition. To reduce the transition time between these two states, the visitor audio devices need to be stored with the headphones together while reducing any cable clutter. The solution is a bi-functional necklet design that serves two purposes namely as headphones holder (stand) and as necklet I ergonomic interface to attach the device to the user.
[0095] The charging pickup bays of the charging cradle can be provided with a power connection and data connection. Contact pads in the charging cradle base can connect with the charging cradle tray. The charging pickup bays is equipped with connectors allowing daisy chaining of a plurality of charging cradle bases. A charging cradle in form of a tray can comprisea plurality of charging pickup bays, each accommodating one experience device. Each pickup bay is provided with contact pads or contact springs to contact the experience device place in the pickup bay. The contacts enable charging current for the experience device and data transmission namely audio files and the description file controlling the playback behavior of the experience device.
[0096] A charging cart can be provided to transport the charging cradles. E.g. each charging cradle can be equipped with for instance 9 daisy-chained charging pickup bays. The charging cart can be moved to where the experience devices are handed out. The charging cradle tray is equipped with a wire hanger to facilitate handling of many experience devices by the front desk staff.
[0097] According to an example, a housing 120 of the mobile audio device comprises a rear side 121 , a front side 122 as well as a first necklet end 111. The first necklet end 111 covers at least part of the upper end of the housing. The first necklet end and thus the necklet can be removed by opening the front side 122 and removing the first necklet end 111.
[0098] As an alternative, a lanyard adapter can be used to replace the first necklet end 111. Thus, a housing 120 fora mobile visitor guidance audio device is presented which allows an easy adaptation of the housing to different user requirements. The adaptation of the audio device 100 can be performed by personnel of the video guidance system.
[0099] By removing the front side 122, the personnel of the video guidance system has access to the inner compartment, namely to the headphone jack, the accumulator, optionally an USB connector for a head tracker, USB headphones or other accessories. A headphone with its headphone cable is coupled to the headphone jack and by means of the spooling unit, the free length of the headphone cable can be adjusted to requirements. Accordingly, when a headphone is to be connected to the audio device, the front side 122 is removed, the headphone cable is coupled to the headphone jack and the headphone cable is wound by hand around the spooling unit 130 in order to adjust the free length of the headphone cable.
[0100] The spooling unit 130 can be removed from the inner compartment in order to provide an easy way for the user to wind the headphone cable around the spooling unit 130. Afterwards the spooling unit 130 with the wound cable can be placed into the spooling compartment 142. Finally, the front side 122 can be replaced again and the audio device can be used or can be stored in the docking station for charging and for receiving the required data.The use of the spooling unit in order to adapt the free length of the headphone cable is advantageous as the length of the headphone cable can be adjusted such that it does not hinder or block any neighbouring audio device which is inside the docking station for recharging.
[0101] The user device can comprise a UWB position detector 154 as well as a controller for executing a corresponding application.
[0102] Optionally, the audio device comprises an internal headphone connector and / or a USB connector. The audio device also comprises a removable spooling unit. Furthermore, the housing of the mobile device comprises a detachable connector component (hook or Ian-yard adapter).
[0103] Optionally, the necklet comprises a hook arranged for carrying a headphone when the audio device is placed into the docking station.List of reference signs 10 visitor guidance system
[0104] 11 visitor guidance environment
[0105] 100 mobile visitor guidance audio device
[0106] 110 necklet
[0107] 111 first necklet end
[0108] 112 second necklet end
[0109] 113 headphone hook
[0110] 114 necklet attachment
[0111] 115 first attachment portion
[0112] 116 second attachment portion
[0113] 117 third attachment portion
[0114] 120 housing
[0115] 121 housing rear side
[0116] 122 housing front side
[0117] 123 operating elements
[0118] 124 operating elements
[0119] 125 contact opening
[0120] 130 spooling unit131 first spool
[0121] 132 second spool
[0122] 140 inner compartment 142 spooling compartment 142a spooling protrusion 143 audio output
[0123] 144 separation wall
[0124] 145 recess
[0125] 146 battery compartment 150 device electronics 151 interface
[0126] 152 memory
[0127] 153 controller
[0128] 153a controller clock
[0129] 154 position detector
[0130] 155 orientation tracker 156 audio Tenderer
[0131] 156a immersive audio engine 157 RF transceiver158 accumulator 200 docking station 201 main surface 210 receiving section 300 headphone 310 headphone cable 400 beacon
[0132] 401 beacon range 500 object
Claims
Claims1. Mobile visitor guidance and / or information audio device (100), comprising:a position detector (154) configured to detect a position of the mobile visitor guidance audio device (100) within a visitor guidance environment (11),a data interface (151) configured to receive audio data and at least one description file comprising rendering operation instructions,a memory (152) configured to store the audio data and the at least one description file received via the data interface (151),an audio Tenderer (156) configured to render audio data stored in the memory (152) based on the position information from the position detector (154) and the rendering operation instruction from the description file,wherein the rendering operation instruction comprises rendering position information associated with the audio data from the memory (152), the rendering position information indicate at which position information the audio data is to be rendered.
2. Mobile visitor guidance and / or information audio device (100) according to claim 1 , whereinthe rendering operation instruction comprises rendering timing information associated with the audio data from the memory (152), the rendering timing information indicate at which timing information an audio data is to be rendered.
3. Mobile visitor guidance and / or information audio device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, comprisingan orientation detector (155) configured to detect an orientation and / or a movement of the mobile visitor guidance audio device,wherein the audio Tenderer (156) comprises an immersive audio engine (156a) configured to render immersive audio based on the detected orientation and / or movement of the mobile visitor guidance audio device, the audio data stored in the memory and the rending information, wherein the rendering operation instruction comprises immersive audio rending information enabling an immersive audio rendering.
4. Mobile visitor guidance and / or information audio device (100), in particular according to any one of the claims 1 to 3, comprising:a housing (120), anda necklet (110) in form of a hook being configured to be worn around a neck of a user,wherein the necklet (110) is coupled to the housing (110) such that the housing (110) can be carried on a chest of a user.
5. Mobile visitor guidance and / or information audio device (100) according to claim 4, whereinthe necklet (110) comprises a necklet attachment (114),wherein the housing is formed by a housing rear side (121), a housing front side (122) and the necklet attachment (114),wherein the necklet attachment (114) is releasably coupled to the housing rear side (121) and / or the housing front side (122).
6. Mobile visitor guidance and / or information audio device (100) according to claim 4 or 5, whereinthe necklet (110) comprises headphone hook (113) configured to receive a headphone.
7. Mobile visitor guidance and / or information audio device (100) according to claim 4, 5 or 6, whereinan audio output (143) is provided inside the housing (120) and is configured to be coupled to the headphone anda spooling unit (130) is provided inside the housing (120) and is configured to receive part of a headphone cable (310) of a headphone (300) coupled to the mobile visitor guidance audio device (100).
8. Mobile visitor guidance and / or information audio device (100) according to claim 7, whereinthe spooling unit (130) comprises at least one spool (131 , 132) configured to receive the headphone cable (310) to adjust a free length of the headphone cable (310) between the housing and the headphone (300).
9. Method of rendering audio in a visitor guidance and / or information system comprising at least one mobile visitor guidance audio device (100), comprising:detecting a position of the mobile visitor guidance audio device (100) within a visitor guidance environment (11) by a position detector (154),receiving audio data and at least one description file comprising rendering operation instruction via a data interface (151),storing the audio data and the at least one description file received via the data contacts (151) in a memory (152), andrendering audio data stored in the memory (152) based on the position information from the position detector (154) and the rendering operation instruction from the description file by an audio Tenderer (156),wherein the rendering operation instruction comprises rendering position information associated with the audio data from the memory (152), the rendering position information indicate at which position information an audio data is to be rendered.
10. A visitor guidance and / or information system (10) comprisinga visitor guidance environment (11) having at least on object (500),at least two beacons (400) configured to transmit signals andat least one mobile visitor guidance audio device (100) according to any one of the claims 1 to 8.
11. A computer program for performing a method of rendering audio in a visitor guidance and / or information system, the computer program including instructions for executing the steps of the method according claim 9, when run on a processor of the mobile visitor guidance audio device.
12. A non-transitory computer readable data medium storing the computer program of claim 11.
13. A set comprisinga mobile visitor guidance and / or information device (100) according to claim 6 and a docking station (200),wherein the docking station (200) is provided with receiving sections (210) inclined at an inclination angle such that an inserted mobile visitor guidance device is tilted at an angle corresponding to the inclination angle of the receiving section,characterized in thatthe necklet and the hook of the mobile visitor guidance device are configured such that a headphone placed on the hook is perpendicularly oriented relative to a main surface (201) of the docking station when the mobile visitor guidance device is inserted into one receiving section.