Digital Audio Pitch Correction for Level-Dependent Distortion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing audio playback systems fail to account for the type and manufacture of audio transducers, leading to sub-optimal listening experiences due to the lack of signal processing tailored to the device and user preferences, and the absence of natural nonlinear sound propagation and mixing effects in digital recordings.
Innovation Solution
Systems and methods that simulate the nonlinear effects of sound propagation and mixing in air using digital signal processing, applying the Westervelt equation to generate intermodulation products and introduce priming signals to enhance audio reproduction, aligning with human auditory system responses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If digital audio is played back using standard audio transducers, then the audio can be reproduced, but the listening experience is compromised because the reproduction does not account for the type and manufacture of the audio transducer
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts audio signal processing parameters based on detected transducer characteristics. The processor modifies equalization curves, compression ratios, and other parameters in real-time according to the specific transducer being used, enabling optimal performance across different device types without requiring manual user configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes multiple audio processing parameters simultaneously based on transducer identification. When a specific transducer is detected, the system adjusts frequency response curves, dynamic range compression settings, and spatial processing parameters to match the optimal characteristics for that particular device type.
2Ease of operation
If manual sound controls are provided for adjusting audio characteristics, then users can adjust volume, equalization, and dynamic range, but the settings are made under sub-optimal conditions and with no training, resulting in sub-optimal listening experience
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic transducer characterization and audio signal processing optimization without requiring user intervention. The processor automatically detects transducer type, extracts characteristics, and configures optimal playback parameters, freeing users from needing to understand complex audio settings while ensuring high-quality reproduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback loop where transducer response characteristics are measured during playback, and the processor continuously adjusts equalization and processing parameters based on this feedback to maintain optimal performance across varying conditions and device states.
3Productivity
If audio is recorded with layers of several different sound sources mixed electronically, then the audio can be stored and played back, but the natural nonlinear sound propagation and mixing effects in air are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary processing stage that simulates acoustic propagation effects between the electronic mix and final playback. The processor applies nonlinear distortion models, air absorption characteristics, and spatial mixing effects that mimic how sound would naturally propagate through air, bridging the gap between electronic recording and natural acoustic behavior.
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
Enhances the listening experience by recreating natural sound propagation effects, providing a more immersive and enjoyable experience at lower volumes without altering the creative content of the audio.
Implementation Method 1
simulate the nonlinear effects of sound propagation and mixing in air using digital signal processing, applying the Westervelt equation to generate intermodulation products
Data Source
AI summary
In various applications, the system provides a method for processing audio signals, including: receiving, by a processor, a digital audio signal from a recorded audio file; analyzing, by the processor, the digital audio signal to identify pitch distortion caused by changes in momentary sound level; determining, by the processor, an amount of compensation of the audio signal to correct the identified pitch distortion; dynamically adjusting, by the processor, the digital audio signal by the compensation amount to correct the identified pitch distortion; and outputting, by the processor, the digital audio signal to an audio transducer device of a listener to improve a listening experience for the listener of the recorded audio file.