Loudspeaker Position Detection Using Image Capture
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the position of loudspeakers in a surround sound system require multiple microphones or extensive measurement processes, making them time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A position determination apparatus that uses a terminal device with cameras to capture images of loudspeakers and calculate their positions relative to a listening position, allowing for the transmission of this information to an audio apparatus for signal correction without the need for microphones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If microphone-based measurement methods are used to determine loudspeaker positions, then measurement accuracy can be achieved, but the measurement process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the acoustic measurement system (microphones and sound waves) with an optical/image processing system. The image processing apparatus captures images of the loudspeaker and its environment, then uses computer vision algorithms to determine position, eliminating the need for physical microphone placement and acoustic signal measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy (image) of the loudspeaker and its spatial environment, then analyzes this copy to extract position information. Instead of measuring physical sound wave properties, the system processes an optical representation of the scene to infer spatial relationships.
2Measurement precision
If multiple microphones are used to determine loudspeaker position, then measurement accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the complex acoustic measurement system requiring multiple microphones with a simpler optical system. A single imaging device captures sufficient visual information to determine loudspeaker position, eliminating the need for multiple sensors and complex acoustic signal processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging device performs multiple functions: it captures the loudspeaker image, identifies the loudspeaker type, and determines its position in space. This single device replaces what would traditionally require multiple specialized measurement instruments.
3Reliability
If extensive measurement processes are performed to correct audio signals, then sound field accuracy improves, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs position determination in advance by capturing an image and processing it to extract spatial information before audio signal correction begins. This preliminary visual assessment provides the necessary position data without requiring time-consuming acoustic measurements during the setup process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces time-consuming acoustic measurement and signal analysis processes with rapid image capture and computer vision processing. The visual analysis quickly provides position information, enabling faster setup while maintaining the accuracy needed for proper audio signal correction.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A
Figure 3B~3C
AI summary
A position determination apparatus includes: an image capturing unit that captures an image of a loudspeaker from a listening position while facing in an image capturing direction, to acquire image data: a direction detection unit that detects the image capturing direction; a recognition unit that recognizes an image of the loudspeaker from the image data; a distance calculation unit that calculates a distance from the listening position to the loudspeaker by using the image of the loudspeaker; and a location determination unit that determines a location of the loudspeaker based on the image capturing direction detected by the direction detection unit and the distance calculated by the distance calculation unit.