Distance Determination for Headset 3D Audio Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the distance between sound generating objects for personalized 3D audio are inadequate, as they rely on generic Head Related Transfer Functions (HRTFs) that do not accurately account for individual variations in ear and head geometry, leading to suboptimal sound localization.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a signal provider positioned at varying distances from sound generating objects, using cross-correlation of signals to determine the distance between these objects, and adapting audio signals based on this information to provide realistic 3D sound by adjusting the audio signals in real-time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If generic HRTF databases are used for sound localization, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and sound localization accuracy deteriorate due to inability to account for individual ear and head geometry variations
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary measurement of the user's actual ear and head geometry using a 3D sensor (such as a camera or depth sensor) before audio playback. This preliminary action captures individual anatomical variations and stores them for subsequent HRTF selection or generation, thereby improving sound localization accuracy without requiring complex real-time processing during audio playback
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameters used for HRTF selection from generic population averages to individual-specific anatomical parameters (ear size, shape, head dimensions) obtained through 3D scanning. This parameter change enables the system to adapt HRTF characteristics to match the user's unique geometry, significantly improving localization precision while maintaining manageable system complexity through automated processing
2Measurement precision
If individualized HRTF measurement methods are implemented (such as 3D imaging or physical measurements), then sound localization accuracy is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen due to additional measurement procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a multi-functional approach where a single 3D imaging device (camera or depth sensor) serves multiple purposes: it captures ear geometry, head shape, and spatial relationship between ears. This universal measurement tool replaces multiple specialized measurement devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high measurement precision for individualized HRTF customization
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement process is designed to be automated and self-service oriented. The system automatically captures 3D data using the sensor, processes the images to extract anatomical parameters, and selects or generates appropriate HRTFs without requiring manual intervention from the user. This self-service automation reduces the operational burden on users while implementing sophisticated individualized measurement
3Adaptability or versatility
If distance determination between sound generating objects is implemented, then adaptability of audio signals to individual geometry is improved, but measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses an intermediary approach where the distance between sound generating objects (earpieces) is not measured directly with high-precision instruments, but rather inferred from the 3D spatial coordinates of the user's ears obtained through 3D imaging. This intermediary measurement method translates anatomical landmark detection into distance calculation, achieving sufficient precision for audio adaptation without requiring direct distance measurement equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The distance determination utilizes composite information from multiple data sources: 3D coordinates of ear positions, head geometry data, and spatial relationships between anatomical features. By combining these multiple measurement dimensions into a composite distance calculation, the system achieves robust adaptability of audio signals to individual geometry while distributing measurement precision requirements across multiple easier-to-measure parameters
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
This approach allows for precise determination of the distance between sound generating objects, enabling more accurate adaptation of audio signals to provide realistic 3D sound experiences tailored to individual users by accounting for unique ear and head geometries.
Implementation Method 1
the objects outputting a sound which is based on the determined information
Implementation Method 2
on the basis of the first and second signals, determining information relating to a distance between the first and second objects
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly and a method for determining the distance between two sound providers, such as the ear pieces of a headset or two hearing aids. A signal is fed to the sound providers from a portable element, such as a mobile telephone, from a position to the side of the person, and from the travelling time of the signal, the distance is determined. Subsequently, audio signals taking the distance into account are fed to the sound generators.