Acoustic Distance Ranging for Wireless Audio Hardware Reuse
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless audio systems lack accurate methods for determining the distance between devices, which affects signal clarity and interference, and require additional hardware for laser ranging techniques.
Innovation Solution
The system uses acoustic frequencies to determine distance by transmitting an audio ranging signal at a first frequency, transitioning to a second frequency, and calculating the time difference based on the speed of sound, utilizing existing audio hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If laser ranging techniques are used to measure distance between audio devices, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase due to requiring additional hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The audio transmitter and receiver are designed to perform both audio signal transmission/reception and distance measurement functions using the same hardware components. The existing audio speaker and microphone are utilized for acoustic ranging, eliminating the need for separate laser ranging hardware and achieving multi-functionality with existing components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces optical/laser-based ranging systems with acoustic-based ranging using sound waves. Instead of using light propagation for distance measurement, the system uses acoustic signals transmitted through air, substituting a mechanical wave system (acoustic) for an electromagnetic wave system (optical/laser).
2Device complexity
If acoustic signals are used for distance measurement, then device complexity is reduced by using existing hardware, but measurement precision may be affected by environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic frequency sweeping of the acoustic signal to improve measurement precision. By transmitting audio signals at different frequencies over time and analyzing the periodic responses, the system can more accurately determine time of flight and distance while compensating for environmental variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The audio receiver provides feedback to the transmitter about received signal characteristics, enabling iterative refinement of distance measurements. The system uses the acoustic echo and signal feedback to calculate precise time delays and adjust measurements for environmental conditions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method provides precise and accurate distance measurements between audio devices, improving signal clarity and reducing interference without the need for additional hardware.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting, at a first point in time by an audio transmitter, an audio ranging signal having a first frequency
Implementation Method 2
determining a distance between the audio transmitter and the audio receiver based on (1) a difference between the third point in time and the fourth point in time, and (2) a determined speed of sound
Data Source
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AI summary
A wireless audio system configured to perform an acoustic ranging operation is disclosed. The audio system comprises an audio transmitter, and audio receiver, and is configured to determine a distance between the audio transmitter and the audio receiver.