Artificial Ear Apparatus for Real-Time HRTF Reconstruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies fail to accurately reconstruct head-related audio transfer functions (HRTFs) in real time, particularly in hearing protection and assistance applications, due to bulky headphones and hearing aids that block the ear canal, preventing accurate positional sound data transmission.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an external manifold with an antihelix and tragus structure, connected to an internal auditory canal and microphone housing, which filters and processes sound waves to replicate the user's HRTF, enhancing audio in real-time and tailoring it to physical and environmental characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If bulky headphones are worn over the ears to provide hearing protection, then hearing protection is achieved, but accurate positional sound data cannot be transmitted because the HRTF is not reconstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device (microphone array with HRTF reconstruction algorithm) that mediates between the external sound environment and the user's ear. This intermediary captures sound waves, reconstructs the HRTF based on the device's physical characteristics, and synthesizes binaural audio signals that preserve positional information while providing hearing protection through the headphones.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a copy of the HRTF effect by using a microphone array and signal processing to reconstruct the head-related transfer function. Instead of relying on the natural ear canal path, the system captures sound through microphones, processes it through reconstructed HRTF filters, and outputs synthesized binaural signals that replicate the positional cues that would naturally reach the eardrum.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If hearing aids fully block the ear canal to assist hearing, then hearing assistance is provided, but the user's HRTF cannot be accurately reproduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a copy of the HRTF effect by using a microphone array and signal processing to reconstruct the head-related transfer function. Instead of relying on the natural ear canal path, the system captures sound through microphones, processes it through reconstructed HRTF filters, and outputs synthesized binaural signals that replicate the positional cues that would naturally reach the eardrum.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/acoustic system of sound transmission through the ear canal with an electronic signal processing system. Microphones capture sound waves, digital signal processors reconstruct the HRTF and generate binaural signals, and electronic amplification delivers the processed audio, substituting the natural acoustic path with an electronic equivalent that preserves positional information.
3Productivity
If microphones are placed outside headphones to capture sound, then sound capture is achieved, but accurate HRTF reconstruction is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device (microphone array with HRTF reconstruction algorithm) that mediates between the external sound environment and the user's ear. This intermediary captures sound waves, reconstructs the HRTF based on the device's physical characteristics, and synthesizes binaural audio signals that preserve positional information while providing hearing protection through the headphones.
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
Enables accurate localization of sound sources in three-dimensional space, facilitating real-time positional audio data transmission, suitable for hearing protection and assistance applications, even in high noise environments.
Implementation Method 1
The external manifold comprises an antihelix structure, a tragus structure, and an opening... The tragus structure is disposed to partially enclose the opening, such that the tragus structure will partially impede and/or affect the characteristics of the incoming acoustic waves
Implementation Method 2
The opening is in direct air flow communication with the outside environment, and is structured to receive acoustic waves
Implementation Method 3
The opening canal is in further air flow communication with an auditory canal, which is formed within the internal manifold... The microphone housing is attached or connected to an end of the auditory canal
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides for an apparatus, system, and method for generating a head related audio transfer function in real time. Specifically, the present invention utilizes unique structural components including a tragus structure and an antihelix structure in connection with a microphone in order to communicate the location of a sound in three dimensional space to a user.