Audio Processing Device Frequency Band Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing number of audio data files makes it difficult for users to easily select and appreciate desired audio content without visual cues, as existing technologies cannot aurally distinguish multiple audio signals.
Innovation Solution
An audio processing apparatus that separates and emphasizes multiple audio signals by filtering them into distinct frequency bands and time slots, and applying modulation and localization effects to provide segregation information at both the inner ear and brain levels, allowing users to perceive and recognize each signal independently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple audio signals are mixed and output simultaneously, then the quantity of audio content that can be presented is increased, but the ability to distinguish and recognize individual signals deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies frequency band segmentation by dividing the audible frequency range into multiple bands (e.g., 0-5kHz, 5-10kHz, 10-15kHz, 15-20kHz) and assigning different audio signals to different frequency bands. This allows multiple audio signals to be presented simultaneously while maintaining distinguishability, as each signal occupies a distinct frequency segment rather than overlapping completely.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different frequency characteristics to different audio signals. Each audio signal is filtered to have a specific frequency band assignment, creating locally distinct quality characteristics. This enables the human ear to distinguish between signals based on their unique frequency signatures, resolving the contradiction between quantity and distinguishability.
2Productivity
If audio signals are presented concurrently to increase content availability, then the productivity of content delivery is improved, but the ease of selecting desired content deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the frequency spectrum and assigning different bands to different audio signals, the system enables concurrent presentation of multiple contents while maintaining clear auditory differentiation. Users can simultaneously hear multiple audio files and easily identify which one they wish to select, improving both productivity and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses frequency band assignment as an auditory analogue of color coding. Different frequency bands serve as distinct 'auditory colors' that allow users to visually (auditorily) distinguish between different audio contents at a glance, making selection intuitive and efficient without requiring sequential playback.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If frequency band division is applied to separate audio signals, then the distinguishability of signals is improved, but the complexity of signal processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the frequency parameter of audio signals through filtering. Instead of complex multi-dimensional processing, the system uses relatively simple frequency band filtering (e.g., low-pass, high-pass, band-pass filters) to achieve signal separation. This resolves the contradiction by using straightforward parameter modification rather than complex processing algorithms.
Data Source
AI summary
In Fig. 1, a user selects a plurality of pieces of music data desired to be reproduced concurrently, at an input unit 18 of an audio processing apparatus 16, from music data stored in a storage device 12. A reproducing apparatus 14 reproduces selected music data respectively and generates a plurality of audio signals under the control of a control unit 20. An audio processing unit 24 performs allocation of frequency band, extraction of a frequency component, time-division, periodic modulation, processing and allocation of a sound image, to respective audio signals under the control of the control unit 20. Then the audio processing unit 24 attaches segregation information of audio signals and information on the degree of emphasis to respective audio signals. The down mixer 26 mixes a plurality of audio signals and outputs as an audio signal having a predetermined number of channels, then an output unit 30 outputs the signal as sounds.