3D Audio Beamforming Signal Modulation for Listener Direction Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional beamforming techniques are limited to two-dimensional spaces and cannot effectively control sound output in three-dimensional environments using loudspeaker arrays.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for processing audio signals to generate and modulate beamforming signals on a horizontal plane related to a sound source in a 3D space, allowing the signals to be directed to a listener by adjusting delay times and beam angles across multiple loudspeakers, enabling focused sound output in a 3D space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional beamforming technique is used, then sound output can be controlled in a desired direction on a 2D plane, but it cannot effectively control sound output in a 3D space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends conventional 2D beamforming technology to 3D space by introducing vertical dimension control. The audio signal processing apparatus generates beamforming signals that can be directed not only horizontally but also vertically, enabling three-dimensional sound spatial control. This is achieved by processing audio signals to create beamforming patterns that operate in both horizontal and vertical planes simultaneously.
2Adaptability or versatility
If loudspeaker array is disposed in 3D space, then sound can be output to multiple directions, but precise control and concentration of sound output becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the audio signal processing apparatus receives information about the listener's position and the sound source orientation. Based on this feedback, the system dynamically adjusts the beamforming signals to achieve precise sound concentration in the desired direction. The apparatus processes audio signals with feedback from position data to accurately control sound output direction and concentration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes parameters such as delay times and beam angles dynamically to control sound output. By adjusting these parameters based on listener position and sound source orientation, the patent achieves precise sound concentration in three-dimensional space. The audio signal processing apparatus modifies temporal and spatial parameters to optimize sound directionality.
3Ease of manufacture
If beamforming signal is generated on horizontal plane only, then processing is simplified, but listener position compensation in 3D space is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the beamforming process into horizontal and vertical components. The audio signal processing apparatus first generates beamforming signals on the horizontal plane, then separately processes them to add vertical dimension control. This segmentation allows the system to maintain manageable processing complexity while achieving comprehensive 3D sound spatial control and accurate listener position compensation.
Data Source
AI summary
A Method for processing an audio signal to use a beamforming technique in a three-dimensional (3D) space is disclosed. The method may include generating a beamforming signal on a horizontal plane related to a sound source in a three-dimensional (3D) space and modulating the beamforming signal to head for a listener in the 3D space from the sound source.