Conference Speaker Gain Tuning Using Microphone Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing large-scale audio systems face challenges in accurately tuning multiple speakers and microphones across various environments, requiring complex setup processes and expert teams due to the complexity of equipment and software configurations.
Innovation Solution
A method that involves identifying multiple speakers and microphones on a network, providing test signals to determine tuning parameters, and automatically adjusting speaker output parameters based on signal analysis to optimize audio performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple speakers and microphones are tested individually in a networked audio system, then the setup process becomes simpler and can be automated, but the accuracy of representing the full system's audio performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the audio system into individual speaker-microphone pairs for independent testing and tuning. Each pair is tested separately using automated processes, allowing simplified individual configuration while the collective effect of all tuned pairs achieves accurate overall system performance. This segmentation enables automation without sacrificing final system accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where test signals are played through speakers and captured by microphones, with the captured signals analyzed to automatically adjust speaker output parameters. This closed-loop feedback process ensures that individual pair tuning accurately reflects actual audio performance, resolving the contradiction between simplified individual testing and accurate system representation.
2Reliability
If expert teams manually configure and test audio equipment, then audio quality and system performance are optimized, but the complexity and time required for installation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service automation where the audio system automatically identifies speakers and microphones, plays test signals, analyzes captured signals, and adjusts configuration parameters without human intervention. This self-service process maintains audio quality equivalent to expert manual configuration while eliminating installation complexity and time requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of manual expert configuration with an automated electronic system. Instead of experts physically setting up and testing equipment, an automated controller electronically identifies devices, generates test signals, analyzes responses, and configures parameters, thereby maintaining audio quality while reducing installation complexity.
3Productivity
If test signals are provided to all speakers simultaneously, then the tuning process is faster and more efficient, but the ability to accurately identify and analyze individual speaker feedback deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic action by providing test signals to speakers in sequential cycles rather than simultaneously. Each speaker receives test signals in turn, allowing individual feedback to be clearly identified and analyzed. This periodic approach maintains individual detection accuracy while the automated process ensures efficient overall tuning speed.
Data Source
AI summary
An example method of operation may include applying a set of initial power and gain parameters for a speaker, playing a stimulus signal via the speaker, determining a sound level at a microphone location and a sound level at a predefined distance from the speakers, determining a gain at the microphone location based on a difference of the sound level at the microphone location and the sound level at the predefined distance from the speaker, and applying the gain to the speaker output.