Personalized HRTF Calibration Using Dummy Head Replicas
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current binaural or head-related transfer function (HRTF) calibration requires expensive equipment from specialized manufacturers, limiting accessibility and personalization for end users.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses computer media with executable instructions to access and tailor HRTF filters to an individual's head orientation, allowing for personalized HRTF calibration files to be created using headphones with built-in microphones, which can be used with any audio processing system to provide a personalized 3D sound experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If specialized expensive equipment is used for HRTF calibration, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a simplified dummy head replica instead of complex specialized measurement equipment. The dummy head is a copy or approximation of the human head structure that can be manufactured inexpensively and used to obtain HRTF data, replacing the need for expensive specialized calibration equipment while maintaining sufficient measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive dummy head models that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed, rather than investing in expensive, complex, and fragile specialized measurement equipment. These simple dummy heads serve the calibration purpose effectively at a fraction of the cost
2Ease of operation
If generic HRTF data is used, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability to individual users deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the calibration process into two independent parts: (1) measuring the user's unique head geometry using a simple dummy head, and (2) obtaining HRTF data through playback and recording. This segmentation allows the system to be easily operated while still achieving personalized results by combining generic measurement procedures with individual-specific anatomical data
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables users to perform their own HRTF calibration at home using the provided dummy head and standard audio equipment, without requiring specialized technicians or complex procedures. The user simply wears the dummy head, plays test tones, and records the output, creating their own personalized calibration file independently
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
Enables end users to create and utilize their own personalized HRTF calibration files, providing a cost-effective and accessible method for achieving a tailored 3D sound experience that follows the head's movements, enhancing the realism of sound localization.
Implementation Method 1
based at least on one microphone detecting the test sounds, generate the first set of HRTF
Implementation Method 2
convolute an audio stream using the first one of the first set of HRTF to render an adjusted stream
Data Source
AI summary
Left and right ear HRTF coefficients are determined for an end user, one each for each of a plurality of head orientations, and provided to the end user on a portable recording medium, or via the Internet, etc. The user can then implement the files on audio played on the user's headphones, with the file corresponding to the user's head orientation being selected as the user moves his head to ensure the sound as perceived by the user remains emanating from a fixed external location. The user's personal HRTF may be cascaded with the HRTF of a user-designated location, such as a famous theater, to model the sound as though it were being played in the theater.