Head-Related Transfer Function Normalization for Sound Localization

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sound image localization technologies in television apparatuses face challenges in accurately localizing sound images due to the acoustic characteristics of speakers and microphones, leading to overly emphasized or spread-out sound when using conventional head-related transfer function measurement methods.

Innovation Solution

A method involving the normalization of head-related transfer functions generated in different measurement environments, where the first gain of a head-related transfer function is normalized with the second gain and its square root calculated to transform the power dimension into voltage, allowing for accurate sound image localization by eliminating the influence of acoustic characteristics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If head-related transfer function is measured using conventional methods with speakers and microphones having acoustic characteristics, then sound image localization can be achieved, but the sound becomes overly emphasized and spread-out

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehead-related transfer function accuracyVSAvoidacoustic characteristics influence
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a reference head-related transfer function as an intermediary element to eliminate the influence of acoustic characteristics. By dividing the measured head-related transfer function by the reference function, the harmful acoustic characteristics are cancelled out, leaving only the essential localization information needed for accurate sound image positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter representation by transforming the head-related transfer function from the power dimension to the voltage dimension through normalization. This parameter transformation removes the quadratic relationship introduced by acoustic characteristics, resulting in a normalized function that accurately represents the acoustic path without excessive emphasis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If head-related transfer function is measured in a specific measurement environment, then sound image localization can be realized, but the acoustic characteristics of the measurement environment affect the accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesound image localization capabilityVSAvoidlocalization accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The reference head-related transfer function serves as a mediator that represents the acoustic characteristics of the measurement environment. By using this reference function for normalization, the system can compensate for the specific acoustic environment and achieve accurate localization that is adaptable to different listening situations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary measurement and normalization to create a reference head-related transfer function that pre-compensates for acoustic characteristics. This preliminary action allows the system to achieve accurate sound image localization without requiring complex real-time adjustments for different acoustic environments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS9232336B2Head related transfer function generation apparatus, head related transfer function generation method, and sound signal processing apparatus
Publication Date: 2016.01.05 SONY GROUP CORP
  • US9232336B2 patent drawing
  • US9232336B2 patent drawing
  • US9232336B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A head related transfer function generation apparatus includes a first input unit that inputs a first head related transfer function generated in a first measurement environment, a second input unit that inputs a second head related transfer function generated in a second measurement environment, and a transform normalization processing unit that normalizes a first gain of the first head related transfer function represented in frequency-axis data with a second gain of the second head related transfer function represented in frequency-axis data and also calculates a square root thereof.