Acoustic Signal Processing Apparatus for Vertical Sound Localization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing technologies face challenges in implementing sound image localization in the up-down direction using omnidirectional loudspeaker groups or high-cost sound bars.

Innovation Solution

An acoustic signal processing apparatus that employs frequency shift processing, modulation frequency control, and amplitude control to simulate a moving sound source, utilizing single-sideband (SSB) modulation and Doppler shift to create the illusion of sound source movement in the up-down direction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If an omnidirectional loudspeaker group is used to implement sound image localization in the up-down direction, then sound localization capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesound image localization capabilityVSAvoidloudspeaker arrangement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical approach of using multiple omnidirectional loudspeakers arranged in specific three-dimensional configurations with an electronic signal processing approach. By applying frequency shift processing and single-sideband modulation to acoustic signals played through horizontally arranged loudspeakers, the system achieves up-down direction sound image localization without requiring complex spatial loudspeaker arrangements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the frequency parameter of acoustic signals through frequency shift processing and single-sideband modulation. By modulating the frequency of sounds played through horizontally arranged loudspeakers, the system creates the perception of up-down direction sound movement, effectively achieving vertical sound image localization through frequency parameter manipulation rather than physical loudspeaker positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If a sound bar with loudspeakers arranged toward a diagonally upward side is used, then sound image localization in the up-down direction is improved, but hardware cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesound image localization capabilityVSAvoidhardware cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the expensive mechanical solution of sound bars with diagonally upward arranged loudspeakers with an electronic signal processing system. By using frequency shift processing and single-sideband modulation on signals played through simple horizontally arranged loudspeakers, the system achieves the same up-down direction sound localization effect at lower hardware cost and simpler manufacturing requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates an auditory illusion that copies the effect of physically elevated sound sources. Through frequency modulation and single-sideband processing, the system synthesizes the perception of sound coming from upward directions using horizontally arranged loudspeakers, effectively copying the localization effect of expensive sound bar configurations without requiring the actual physical arrangement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Measurement precision

If frequency shift processing and single-sideband modulation are applied to acoustic signals, then sound image localization in the up-down direction is achieved, but signal processing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesound image localization capabilityVSAvoidsignal processing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes horizontally arranged loudspeakers perform the additional function of creating up-down direction sound image localization through signal processing. By applying frequency shift processing and single-sideband modulation to the acoustic signals, the existing loudspeaker system gains the capability to localize sound in the vertical direction, making the system multi-functional without adding physical components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces signal processing circuits as intermediaries between the acoustic signal source and the loudspeakers. These intermediary processing stages (frequency shift processing unit and single-sideband modulation unit) transform the acoustic signals in a way that enables up-down direction localization, acting as a bridge that converts simple horizontal loudspeaker arrangements into systems capable of vertical sound image localization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Effectively implements sound image localization in the up-down direction using two omnidirectional loudspeakers, providing a cost-effective solution that simulates a moving sound source, enhancing the realism of sound localization.

Implementation Method 1

a frequency shift processing unit configured to perform single-sideband (SSB) modulation on a first acoustic signal in accordance with the first modulation frequency to generate a first modulated acoustic signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSingle-sideband (SSB) modulation: Phase Modulation

Implementation Method 2

employes frequency shift processing, modulation frequency control, and amplitude control to simulate a moving sound source, utilizing single-sideband (SSB) modulation and Doppler shift to create the illusion of sound source movement in the up-down direction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDoppler shift: Doppler Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20250097643A1Acoustic signal processing apparatus and acoustic signal processing method
Publication Date: 2025.03.20 KK TOSHIBA
  • US20250097643A1 patent drawing
  • US20250097643A1 patent drawing
  • US20250097643A1 patent drawing

AI summary

According to an embodiment, an acoustic signal processing apparatus includes processing circuitry. The processing circuitry includes a modulation frequency control unit, frequency shift processing unit, and amplitude control unit. The modulation frequency control unit is configured to control a first modulation frequency based on velocity information indicating a velocity of a sound source. The frequency shift processing unit is configured to perform single-sideband (SSB) modulation on a first acoustic signal in accordance with the first modulation frequency to generate a first modulated acoustic signal. The amplitude control unit is configured to control an amplitude of the first modulated acoustic signal.