Headphones With Varying Size Drivers For Sound Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing headphones fail to provide a realistic auditory experience due to reliance on average head models, inaccurate sound localization, and non-uniform frequency distribution, leading to tiring and potentially damaging listening experiences.
Innovation Solution
A set of headphones with varying size drivers, including a main driver and auxiliary drivers positioned at angles, each filtered to specific frequency ranges, and processed to minimize signal deformation and enhance localization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple drivers of varying sizes are used in each ear cup, then frequency spectrum uniformity and sound localization accuracy are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The audio frequency spectrum is segmented into different ranges (low, mid, high frequencies), with each range handled by a specifically sized driver. This segmentation allows each driver to operate within its optimal frequency range, improving overall sound quality and localization accuracy while managing complexity through functional specialization.
Solution Approach 2:
Different drivers with varying sizes are positioned at specific angles within each ear cup to create localized sound sources that correspond to different spatial positions. This local quality approach enables accurate sound localization by matching driver characteristics and positions to specific frequency ranges and spatial directions.
2Measurement precision
If drivers are positioned at angles relative to the ear, then sound localization accuracy is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Drivers are positioned at asymmetric angles relative to the ear cup and ear canal, creating a non-uniform spatial distribution that mimics natural sound propagation paths. This asymmetric positioning improves localization accuracy by creating distinct acoustic signatures for different directions, though it requires precise manufacturing to maintain the intended angular relationships.
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
The solution provides a more realistic and less tiring auditory experience with reduced risk of hearing damage by optimizing sound localization and frequency distribution.
Implementation Method 1
each ear cup comprising: at least 1 main driver; and, at least 2 auxiliary drivers with a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the main driver
Implementation Method 2
the main driver comprises a filter configured to select a range of low frequency sound waves below a lower cut-off frequency fL and a range of high frequency sound waves above an upper cut-off frequency fU. Most preferably, the at least 2 auxiliary drivers comprise a filter configured to select a range of intermediate frequency sound waves between the lower cut-off frequency fL and the upper cut-off frequency fU
Data Source
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Figure 1C
AI summary
The present invention relates to a set of headphones comprising 2 ear cups, wherein each ear cup comprises drivers of varying size connected to a separate feed each. The present invention also relates to a method for processing a set of headphones. The present invention also relates to the use of a set of headphones.