Distributed Array Filters for Flexible Audio Beam Forming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional audio spatialization systems rely on centralized digital signal processors for beam forming, which are inflexible and not scalable, limiting their ability to create desired spatial effects in limited spaces or with varying speaker configurations.
Innovation Solution
Distributed beam forming is achieved by placing array filters within or connected to audio amplifiers, allowing for flexible speaker arrangements and potentially eliminating the need for a centralized digital signal processor, with each amplifier coupled to one or more speakers and using filter coefficients to direct audio signals in specific directions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If centralized digital signal processors are used for beam forming, then spatial effects can be produced, but the system becomes inflexible and not scalable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the centralized digital signal processing function into distributed array filters placed within or connected to individual audio amplifiers. Each amplifier becomes an independent processing unit that can filter and direct audio signals autonomously, eliminating the need for a single powerful centralized processor and enabling flexible system scaling.
2Power
If a powerful centralized digital signal processor is used, then beam forming capability is achieved, but the system requires more processing power and becomes less flexible
Solution Approach 1:
Processing power is distributed across multiple independent amplifiers rather than concentrated in a single centralized processor. Each amplifier contains its own array filter and can operate autonomously, providing the necessary processing capability while increasing system flexibility and reducing the burden on any single component.
3Productivity
If centralized processing is used, then spatial effects are produced, but the system is not scalable to varying speaker configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into independent amplifier units, each capable of spatial effect generation through its own array filter. This modular architecture allows the system to be scaled by adding or removing amplifier-speaker units without requiring reconfiguration of a centralized processor, enabling flexible adaptation to various speaker configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
Each amplifier is designed to be multi-functional, capable of both audio amplification and beam forming through integrated array filters. This universal design allows any amplifier in the system to perform spatial effect generation, making the system scalable and adaptable to different configurations without requiring specialized centralized processing hardware.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes multiple speakers arranged in a speaker array configuration. The system also includes one or more filters configured to filter audio signals and generate filtered audio signals. The one or more filters are configured to operate using filter coefficients associated with a desired beam pattern to be produced by the multiple speakers. The system further includes at least one amplifier configured to amplify the filtered audio signals and provide the amplified filtered audio signals to the speakers. The one or more filters reside within or are coupled to the at least one amplifier. The system may further include a controller configured to modify at least one of the filter coefficients based on a change in the speaker configuration. The filters may operate independently of a centralized processor, and a centralized processor may not even be required to provide electronic beam forming.