Hinged Computing Device Binaural Audio Recording
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional computing devices with singular or dual microphones cannot achieve the 3-D stereo sound sensation of binaural recording due to the typical relative locations of microphones and lack of processing systems capable of conditioning recorded stereo audio into a binaural audio stream.
Innovation Solution
A binaural computing device comprising a first and second device component with pivotally connected microphones, each positioned to approximate ear-to-ear spacing, and a binaural processing module to generate a binaural audio stream by conditioning the recorded audio.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional computing devices use typical microphone layouts, then device simplicity is maintained, but binaural recording capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The computing device is divided into multiple components (first component, second component, third component) with each containing specific microphones. This segmentation allows the microphones to be positioned at different locations (first location, second location, third location) to approximate ear spacing while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional planar microphone arrangements to a three-dimensional spatial configuration. By positioning microphones at different locations in 3D space and using a hinge to create angular relationships between components, the system achieves binaural recording capability that traditional 2D layouts cannot provide.
2Measurement precision
If traditional computing devices use fixed microphone positions, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but 3-D stereo sound sensation cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a hinge connection between the first and second components, allowing the device to be configured in multiple angular positions. This dynamic element enables the microphones to be positioned at optimal locations for binaural recording while providing flexibility during assembly and adjustment, balancing manufacturing simplicity with positioning precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If computing devices lack binaural processing systems, then device simplicity is maintained, but audio processing capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple microphones (first, second, and third microphones) with a binaural processing system into an integrated audio processing unit. This merging allows the device to capture and process audio in a binaural format, enhancing audio processing capability while managing complexity through unified design.
4Volume of moving object
If microphones are positioned close together, then device compactness is maintained, but ear spacing approximation is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses three-dimensional spatial arrangement to achieve ear spacing approximation without increasing the two-dimensional footprint of the device. By positioning microphones at different heights, depths, and angular orientations using the hinge mechanism, the system maintains compactness while accurately approximating the spacing and orientation of human ears.
Data Source
AI summary
Conventional stereo audio recordings do not factor in natural ear spacing or “head shadow” of a user's head and ears. The hinged computing devices disclosed herein incorporate a pair of microphones that approximate the user's ear-to-ear spacing and orientation, as well as a physical structure that approximates the user's head shadow. A resulting recording of the computing device's environment may be conditioned and reproduced as a binaural stereo audio feed for selective playback to the user or other users.