Dynamic HRTF Adjustment for Audio Source Differentiation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The human ability to distinguish and focus on one sound source is impaired when another sound source is present, limiting the effectiveness of existing audio signal processing methods in creating a clear psychoacoustic impression of audio signals from multiple sources.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device and method that dynamically adjusts the head-related transfer function (HRTF) for audio signals, allowing for automated transfer of the audio signal's sound reproduction position in response to a precursor signal, enabling better differentiation between multiple audio sources by changing the HRTF settings before reproducing the second audio signal, and reverting to the original position when the second signal is no longer present.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a head-related transfer function is applied to create a psychoacoustic impression of a sound source position, then the listener can perceive the position of the audio signal, but the ability to distinguish and focus on one sound source is impaired when another sound source is present
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the sound reproduction position adjustable and changeable over time. The position is not fixed but can be dynamically modified based on the presence of multiple sound sources, allowing the system to adapt between maintaining position precision and improving sound source distinguishability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of sound reproduction position from a static value to a dynamic value that can be modified. By changing the position parameter in response to detected sound sources, the system resolves the contradiction between maintaining accurate position perception and enabling distinguishability of multiple sources
2Loss of information
If the sound reproduction position is changed in response to receiving a second audio signal, then the user can better distinguish between multiple signals, but the transition may cause disruption to the listening experience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by detecting the presence of a second sound source and preparing the position change before the actual reproduction occurs. This advance preparation allows for smoother transitions that maintain listening comfort while still achieving better distinguishability
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the sound reproduction position based on real-time detection of multiple sound sources. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize distinguishability while managing the transition smoothly to maintain user comfort
3Loss of information
If the head-related transfer function settings are adjusted to improve distinction between multiple audio sources, then sound source distinguishability is enhanced, but the complexity of the audio processing system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic system that automatically adjusts HRTF settings based on detected sound sources. This dynamic approach enhances distinguishability while managing complexity by using automated detection and adjustment rather than requiring complex manual processing configurations
Data Source
AI summary
A method comprises the steps of: receiving a first audio signal (S1); generating a digital representation (S1″) of the first audio signal (S1) by applying a head-related transfer function (HRTF) in a first sound reproduction position (r1); and changing the first sound reproduction position (r1) to a second sound reproduction position (r3) in response to receiving a second audio signal S2) or a precursor signal for a second audio signal (S2).