3D Microphone Spatial Audio Recording
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-channel audio systems, such as Dolby Digital and DTS, fail to adequately reproduce sound effects in elevation, limiting the immersion of audio experiences in gaming and other applications by not effectively simulating sounds from overhead or underfoot directions.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for recording and reproducing multi-dimensional audio using a three-dimensional microphone with directional receiving elements, oriented to capture sounds from specific directions, and a 3-D recorder that maps these sounds to multiple channels, including time code, to create a 3-D listening environment with vertical sound localization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional multi-channel audio systems (Dolby Digital, DTS) are used, then horizontal plane sound reproduction is achieved, but vertical sound localization (elevation) is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional 2D horizontal plane audio to 3D spatial audio by adding vertical dimension capability through a 3-D microphone with multiple directional receiving elements oriented in different spatial directions, enabling accurate reproduction of sounds from overhead and underfoot directions
2Adaptability or versatility
If 3-D microphone with multiple directional receiving elements is used, then vertical sound localization is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The 3-D microphone is segmented into multiple independent directional receiving elements, each sensitive to sounds from specific directions. This segmentation allows the complex 3D capture function to be divided into simpler directional components that can be processed independently and combined to achieve full 3D spatial audio
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple recording channels are used to capture 3-D sounds, then sound immersion is improved, but loss of information increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes a predetermined mapping relationship between the multiple recording channels of the 3-D microphone and the output channels of the audio system before recording begins. This preliminary channel mapping configuration ensures that spatial information is preserved and correctly routed during playback, preventing information loss
Data Source
AI summary
Certain embodiments of the invention may include systems, methods, and apparatus for recording three dimensional audio. According to an example embodiment of the invention, the method may include orienting a three-dimensional (3-D) microphone with respect to a predetermined spatial direction, selectively receiving sounds from one or more directions corresponding to directional receiving elements, recording the selectively received sounds in a 3-D recorder having a plurality of recording channels, recording time code in at least one channel of the 3-D recorder; and mapping the recorded channels to a plurality of output channels.