Location-Based Audio Delay Correction for Event Sound Synchronization
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing audio broadcasting technologies fail to provide high-quality sound experiences at large events due to distance from the sound source, leading to degraded intelligibility and loss of detail, and existing solutions do not effectively modify audio signals based on a user's changing position relative to the sound source.
Innovation Solution
A system that determines a user's location using GPS and environmental factors to modify audio signals with a delay, combining near-field and far-field platforms to synchronize airborne sound with digital audio, ensuring high-definition sound delivery through headphones or earbuds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If headphones or earbuds are used to deliver high quality sound, then audio clarity and intelligibility are improved, but social connection and immersion in the physical environment are degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges near-field audio delivery (headphones/earbuds) with far-field loudspeaker arrays to create a hybrid audio experience. The audio signal is split into two paths: one delivered through headphones for clarity and another through ambient loudspeakers for social immersion, combining the benefits of both approaches simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The audio delivery system is segmented into multiple independent channels - personal audio through headphones and environmental audio through distributed loudspeakers. This allows each channel to serve its specific function without interfering with the other, enabling users to enjoy both clarity and social connection
2Power
If large format sound systems are used to deliver powerful audio experience, then visceral impact and immersion are improved, but audio clarity and intelligibility are degraded due to distance from source
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines powerful far-field loudspeaker arrays that deliver visceral impact with near-field headphone audio that provides clarity and intelligibility. The loudspeakers create immersive environmental sound while headphones ensure detailed audio reproduction regardless of distance from the sound source
Solution Approach 2:
Headphones act as an intermediary device that bridges the gap between the distant sound source and the listener's ear. Instead of relying solely on acoustic propagation through air (which degrades with distance), the headphone intermediary delivers a direct, high-fidelity audio signal to the listener
3Ease of operation
If fixed audio broadcasting is used, then simple system operation is maintained, but adaptability to user movement and position changes is degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously receives feedback about user position and movement through sensors and GPS data, then dynamically adjusts the audio delivery parameters in real-time. The delay compensation is automatically updated based on changing user locations, maintaining optimal audio synchronization without manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The audio broadcasting system transitions from a static, fixed configuration to a dynamic system that continuously adapts to user movement. The delay compensation parameters are updated in real-time as users move through the venue, allowing the system to maintain optimal performance throughout the event
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
The system provides high-definition sound with minimal acoustic challenges and hearing protection by synchronizing airborne and digital sound, enhancing the audio experience at large events with customizable and controllable audio delivery.
Implementation Method 1
determining a position of a user listening to a sound, based on an output from a GPS component
Implementation Method 2
determining a corrected speed of sound when accounting for at least one environmental factor of an area associated with the source of the sound
Data Source
AI summary
A method for using an individualized endpoint location of a user to modify an audio signal includes determining a position of a user listening to a sound, based on an output from a GPS component. The method includes determining a distance of the user from a source of the sound. The method includes determining a corrected speed of sound when accounting for at least one environmental factor of an area associated with the source of the sound. The method includes determining a delay between the position and the source of the sound responsive to the determined position, distance, and corrected speed of sound. The method includes modifying an audio signal generated at the source of the sound, wherein modifying includes applying the determined delay to the audio signal.