Adaptive Acoustic Signal Processing for Distance-Based Mode Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional signal processing methods do not distinguish between the distance of a person from a microphone, leading to inefficient use of computing resources and compromised signal quality due to over-processing near-field signals and under-processing far-field signals.
Innovation Solution
The system adapts signal processing modes based on the user-to-microphone distance, employing a distance classifier to differentiate between near-field and far-field distances and selecting appropriate processing modes to optimize signal quality and reduce power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional signal processing methods are used without distance differentiation, then device complexity is reduced, but signal quality deteriorates due to over-processing near-field signals and under-processing far-field signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the acoustic signal processing into distinct near-field and far-field processing modes. A distance classifier divides the continuous acoustic space into discrete zones, allowing different processing algorithms to be applied to each zone. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by enabling precise signal quality optimization for each distance category without requiring a single overly complex universal processor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic adaptation of processing modes based on real-time distance classification. The system transitions between different processing algorithms depending on the classified acoustic zone, making the processing complexity adaptive rather than static. This dynamic approach allows the system to maintain high signal quality while avoiding unnecessary processing complexity in each specific situation.
2Manufacturing precision
If strong signal processing is applied to all acoustic signals regardless of distance, then signal quality for far-field signals is improved, but power consumption increases due to processing near-field signals that already have good quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial processing to near-field signals that already have good quality, using only necessary minimal processing steps. For far-field signals, the system applies stronger processing only when needed. This partial action approach resolves the contradiction by avoiding excessive processing of near-field signals while ensuring adequate processing of far-field signals, thereby optimizing power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes processing parameters dynamically based on distance classification. Different processing intensities, filter strengths, and algorithm complexities are applied depending on whether the signal originates from near-field or far-field zones. This parameter adaptation enables the system to maintain signal quality while significantly reducing power consumption by matching processing intensity to actual signal needs.
3Use of energy by moving object
If weak signal processing is used to save power, then power consumption is reduced, but signal quality deteriorates for far-field signals that require more processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback through distance classification to dynamically adjust processing intensity. The system continuously classifies acoustic signals into near-field or far-field zones and uses this feedback to determine appropriate processing levels. This feedback mechanism ensures that far-field signals receive adequate processing while near-field signals use minimal processing, resolving the contradiction between power consumption and signal quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes processing intensity dynamic rather than static, adapting the processing strength to the actual requirements of each signal based on its distance category. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to consume less power overall while ensuring that far-field signals receive the necessary processing intensity to maintain quality.
4Productivity
If distance classification and adaptive processing modes are implemented, then signal quality and power efficiency are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the acoustic processing system into distinct functional modules: distance classification module, signal processing module, and mode selection module. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system architecture by creating clear functional boundaries, thereby reducing implementation complexity while maintaining high processing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal distance classification mechanism that serves multiple functions: determining processing mode, adjusting processing intensity, and optimizing power consumption. This multi-functional approach reduces overall system complexity by using a single classification system to drive multiple optimization objectives rather than requiring separate systems for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus, systems, methods, and articles of manufacture are disclosed for acoustic signal processing adaptive to microphone distances. An example system includes a microphone to convert an acoustic signal to an electrical signal and one or more processors to: estimate a distance between a source of the acoustic signal and the microphone; select a signal processing mode based on the distance; and process the electrical signal in accordance with the selected processing mode.