Headphone Audio Controller for User-Specific EQ Calibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional headphones fail to provide a consistent listening experience across different users due to variability in user anatomy and headphone fitting, leading to deviations from the intended audio response in equalization (EQ) and transparency modes.
Innovation Solution
Calculating audio controllers for headphones in real-time based on measured audio transfer functions between the acoustic transducer and feedback microphone, with and without the feedback controller applied, to customize EQ and aware mode settings for individual users, using data from multiple subjects and controlled environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional headphones use fixed EQ and transparency mode settings, then the device complexity is low and ease of manufacture is high, but the listening experience consistency across different users deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The headphone system automatically measures the audio transfer function and calculates customized EQ and transparency mode controllers for each user without requiring external equipment or user action. The feedback microphone and processor work together to self-determine the optimal audio settings based on the individual user's anatomy and headphone fit.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts audio parameters by calculating customized EQ and transparency mode controllers based on measured audio transfer functions. This allows the audio characteristics to be optimized for each user's specific ear anatomy and headphone fit, improving listening experience consistency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If real-time audio transfer function measurement and controller calculation is implemented, then the adaptability to individual users is improved, but the processing time and computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs audio transfer function measurement and controller calculation automatically during initial setup or first use, storing the results for immediate application. This preliminary action ensures customized audio settings are ready before the user needs them, avoiding delays during actual audio playback.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical adjustment systems with automated electronic measurement and calculation processes. By using the feedback microphone and digital signal processing to automatically determine audio settings, the system eliminates the need for manual fitting adjustments while achieving superior customization.
3Ease of operation
If no user action is required for customization, then the ease of operation is improved, but the measurement precision may deteriorate without direct user input
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a feedback microphone to measure the actual audio output in the user's ear canal and compares it to the expected response. This feedback loop allows the system to accurately determine the audio transfer function and calculate appropriate EQ and transparency mode controllers, maintaining measurement precision without requiring user action.
Solution Approach 2:
The feedback microphone, originally designed for active noise reduction functionality, is also utilized for measuring audio transfer functions and determining EQ settings. This multi-functional use of existing hardware maintains measurement accuracy while avoiding the need for additional specialized measurement equipment that would require user setup.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of determining an audio controller for a headphone that is configured to use an acoustic transducer to develop sound that is delivered to an ear of a user and that includes a feedback microphone that is configured to sense sound developed by the acoustic transducer, and a related computer program product and system. A first audio transfer function between the acoustic transducer and the feedback microphone is measured. A second audio transfer function between the acoustic transducer and the feedback microphone with a feedback controller applied is determined. The audio controller is calculated based on both the first audio transfer function and the second audio transfer function.