Audio Level Metering for Listener and Object Position
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing audio level metering technologies do not account for varying listener and sound source positions, leading to inaccuracies in perceived loudness, especially in dynamic spatial audio environments.
Innovation Solution
A method for producing an audio level meter that simulates playback based on the position of the sound source and listener within a modeled listening area, taking into account acoustic properties such as room geometry and reverberation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional audio level metering is used without position simulation, then the measurement process is simple and fast, but the measurement precision of perceived loudness is inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-defines multiple listening positions within a listening area before actual audio measurement occurs. These positions are established in advance as part of the spatial model, allowing the metering system to simulate playback from predetermined locations and select the most appropriate measurement position based on the sound source location, thereby improving measurement accuracy without adding complex real-time computation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spatial model as an intermediary between the audio signal and the level metering process. This spatial model contains information about listening positions, sound source positions, and acoustic properties, mediating the measurement process by simulating playback and determining which listening position should be used for accurate perceived loudness measurement
2Measurement precision
If position-based playback simulation is implemented, then the perceived loudness measurement becomes accurate, but the processing time and computational load increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-calculates and stores impulse responses for multiple listening positions during the model setup phase. When actual metering is needed, the system simply retrieves the appropriate pre-computed impulse response based on the sound source position, avoiding time-consuming real-time acoustic simulations while maintaining measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects which listening position to use for measurement based on the real-time position of the sound source. Rather than performing simulations for all possible positions, the system adapts by choosing only the most relevant listening position, reducing computational load while maintaining accuracy for the current spatial configuration
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
This approach provides a more accurate representation of perceived loudness, allowing users to adjust sound source and listener positions during production to achieve optimal audio levels, thereby enhancing the audio or audiovisual experience.
Implementation Method 1
The perceived loudness can be influenced by acoustic properties as defined by the model of the listening area. Such acoustic properties can include a room geometry, reverberation, acoustic damping of surfaces
Data Source
AI summary
Playback of an audio signal is simulated from a playback position to a listening position. The simulation is performed with respect to a model of a listening area. The resulting loudness of the audio, perceived at the listening position, is rendered to a display. Other aspects are described and claimed.