Audio Reproduction Apparatus Directivity Pattern Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-channel audio reproduction systems using array speakers require lengthy processing times and increased data management for changing beam settings, making it difficult to modify sound images effectively.
Innovation Solution
An audio reproduction apparatus with a directivity control system that includes a controller, storage for directivity control data, and a pattern selector, allowing for simple configuration changes by selecting from basic and deformed patterns to control the directivity of audio signals for each channel, mimicking the effect of virtual speaker positions without recalculating or storing new data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If parameters for all reproduction forms are stored at initial setting, then all reproduction forms can be provided, but data amount to be stored and managed increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the directivity control data into a basic pattern (first directivity control data) and deformation patterns (second directivity control data). Instead of storing complete parameter sets for all reproduction forms, the system stores only the basic pattern and deformation patterns that can be combined to generate different reproduction forms, significantly reducing the total data amount while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-calculating and storing only the essential basic directivity control data and deformation patterns, rather than pre-storing all possible reproduction form parameters. This allows the system to generate specific reproduction form parameters on-demand by combining the basic pattern with appropriate deformation patterns, reducing initial data storage requirements.
2Quantity of substance
If parameters are calculated each time reproduction form changes, then data storage is reduced, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary calculation and storage of basic directivity control data and deformation patterns. When a reproduction form change is requested, the system quickly retrieves the relevant basic pattern and deformation pattern from storage and combines them, rather than performing full parameter calculations from scratch. This reduces processing time while maintaining minimal data storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by storing deformation patterns that represent specific modifications to the basic pattern. Each deformation pattern contains only the differential information needed to transform the basic pattern into a specific reproduction form, allowing for efficient storage and rapid application of local modifications rather than storing complete parameter sets.
3Adaptability or versatility
If virtual speaker parameters are changed, then sound image modification is achieved, but beam control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments beam control into two independent components: basic directivity control (first directivity control data) and deformation control (second directivity control data). This segmentation allows the system to manage virtual speaker parameter changes by selectively applying deformation patterns to the basic beam configuration, simplifying the overall control complexity while maintaining high adaptability for sound image modification.
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 real-time adjustment of sound image localization and spread by changing directivity patterns, reducing processing time and data storage needs, and simplifying the system design by allowing users to easily switch between different sound reproduction modes.
Implementation Method 1
an array speaker which inputs a multi-channel audio signal into a plurality of speaker units and outputs the audio signal as beams in a matrix or line shape by way of the principle of superposition
Implementation Method 2
outputting the audio signal as beams in a matrix or line shape by way of the principle of superposition
Implementation Method 3
a directivity controller which controls the directivity of an audio signal for each channel in an independent direction of each other based on directivity control data which is set for each channel
Implementation Method 4
a pattern selector which selects the basic pattern or deformed pattern; and a controller which sets directivity control data to the directivity controller based on the pattern selected by the pattern selector
Data Source
AI summary
In a system capable of outputting an audio signal as beams from an array speaker and performing multi-channel reproduction, a plurality of beam setting patterns (reproduction modes) are stored in the memory of a controller. The beam setting patterns include a single basic pattern and a plurality of deformed patterns that use the beam control data of the basic pattern. When the user specifies a reproduction mode via an interface, the beam setting pattern corresponding to the mode is read and set to the signal processor of each channel.