Real-Time Audio Signal Modification for Perceptual Attributes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing audio signal processing technologies are inadequate for modifying high-order perceptual attributes such as 'punch', 'presence', 'warmth', and 'spaciousness' in sound recordings, as they can only make gross adjustments and fail to enhance or modify these subjective qualities effectively.

Innovation Solution

A system and process that analyze audio signals in real-time to modify high-order perceptual attributes by determining modification factors and applying them through signal processing modules, allowing for precise adjustments to achieve desired listening experiences.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If existing audio signal processing technologies are used, then the system is simple and easy to operate, but the ability to modify high-order perceptual attributes is inadequate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to modify high-order perceptual attributesVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The audio signal is segmented into multiple frequency bands using a filter bank, allowing independent processing of different spectral regions. This segmentation enables precise control over specific perceptual attributes (e.g., bass, midrange, treble) without affecting the entire spectrum, thereby enhancing adaptability while managing complexity through modular processing

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs dynamic modification factors that are applied in real-time based on the analyzed audio signal characteristics. The processing parameters adapt dynamically to the input signal's spectral content and temporal variations, enabling versatile perceptual attribute modification while maintaining computational efficiency through adaptive rather than static processing

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Manufacturing precision

If existing audio signal processing technologies are used, then the processing is fast and efficient, but the precision of modifying perceptual attributes is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprecision of modifying perceptual attributesVSAvoidprocessing speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system modifies perceptual attributes by dynamically changing multiple processing parameters including filter bank coefficients, modification factors for different frequency bands, and spectral shaping parameters. These parameter changes are applied in real-time based on signal analysis, achieving high precision in perceptual attribute modification while maintaining fast processing through efficient parameter update mechanisms

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical audio processing approaches (physical equalizers, analog filters) with digital signal processing methods. This substitution enables precise mathematical manipulation of the audio spectrum, achieving superior precision in perceptual attribute modification while maintaining real-time processing speeds through optimized algorithms

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS8086448B1Dynamic modification of a high-order perceptual attribute of an audio signal

Publication Date: 2011.12.27 CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY LTD

AI summary

Processing an audio signal associated with a sound recording made available to be rendered to an end user is disclosed. The audio signal is received. A high-order perceptual attribute of the audio signal as rendered is changed by modifying the audio signal. The modification may be based on real-time analysis of the audio signal.