Directional Speaker System with Dynamic Audio Focal Points
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing directional speaker systems are inflexible and require users to stand at specific positions to receive targeted audio, as they rely on pre-set configurations and do not adapt to user movement.
Innovation Solution
A directional speaker system utilizing a plurality of loudspeakers and time-of-flight sensors, including Single Photon Avalanche Diodes (SPADs), to dynamically adjust audio signal delays based on user location, ensuring constructive interference and providing adaptable audio focal points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If pre-set configurations are used for directional audio, then audio targeting is achieved, but user flexibility and adaptability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts audio signal parameters (delay, amplitude, phase) based on real-time user position detection, transforming a static pre-configured system into a dynamic adaptive system. The controller continuously modifies audio output according to detected user location, enabling flexibility without requiring complex manual reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback loops where user position is continuously detected and fed back to the controller, which then adjusts audio parameters accordingly. This closed-loop control enables automatic adaptation to user movement, resolving the contradiction between flexibility and complexity by automating the adjustment process.
2Ease of operation
If fixed positions are required for audio reception, then constructive interference is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains reliable audio focus by dynamically tracking user position and continuously adjusting audio parameters. Rather than requiring fixed positions, the system adapts in real-time, allowing free movement while maintaining constructive interference through active parameter modification based on detected location.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment by automatically detecting user position and modifying audio output without requiring user intervention. The controller autonomously maintains constructive interference by adapting to user movement, freeing the user from position constraints while preserving audio focus reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple audio signals are adjusted for different user positions, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed as a multi-functional device that performs user position detection, audio signal processing, delay adjustment, and phase control within a single integrated unit. This universal approach consolidates multiple functions into one component, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high audio signal adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges detection and control functions into a unified process where position detection and audio parameter adjustment are tightly integrated. By combining these functions and processing them through a single controller, the system achieves adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.
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 users to receive targeted audio without needing to stand at fixed positions, as the system tracks user movement and adjusts audio signals in real-time, enhancing flexibility and user experience.
Implementation Method 1
a time of flight sensor arrangement configured to detect a location of a user
Implementation Method 2
control said delay such that said N audio signals arrive simultaneously and constructively interfere at said location of said user
Implementation Method 3
Each of said time of flight sensors may comprise a single photon avalanche diode (SPAD)
Data Source
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AI summary
A loudspeaker system has a loudspeaker arrangement configured to generate N audio signals. A time-of-flight sensor arrangement is configured to detect a location of a user. A controller is configured to use information from said time-of-flight sensor arrangement about the location of said user to control said delay such that said N audio signals constructively interfere at said location of said user.