Loudspeaker Spectral Matching for Automatic EQ Profile Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing audio systems lack an efficient method to automatically calibrate loudspeakers, requiring manual intervention and not accounting for specific loudspeaker models, leading to suboptimal performance.

Innovation Solution

A method that generates a loudspeaker test signal, compares the response to known spectral plots, and applies optimized equalizer settings based on the identified make and model, automating the calibration process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual calibration methods are used to optimize loudspeaker settings, then the equalization can be customized for specific models, but the process requires significant user time and effort

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveequalization accuracyVSAvoidcalibration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-calibration by automatically detecting the loudspeaker model through spectral analysis and applying the appropriate equalization profile without requiring manual user intervention. The audio playback network itself carries out the calibration process that would traditionally require expert technician involvement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Equalization profiles are pre-configured and stored in the system database for various loudspeaker models. The spectral plots and corresponding equalization settings are prepared in advance, allowing the system to quickly retrieve and apply the correct profile once the loudspeaker model is identified, eliminating the need for real-time manual adjustment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If automated detection systems are implemented to identify loudspeaker models, then the calibration process is simplified, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecalibration simplicityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The audio playback network performs multiple functions: it plays audio content, detects loudspeaker models through spectral analysis, retrieves appropriate equalization profiles, and applies the settings. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated calibration equipment while maintaining comprehensive calibration capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces manual mechanical calibration procedures with automated digital signal processing. Instead of physically adjusting components or using specialized calibration hardware, the system uses software-based spectral analysis and digital equalization to achieve precise loudspeaker optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Ease of operation

If generic equalization settings are applied to all loudspeakers, then the system is simpler to operate, but the audio output quality deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem simplicityVSAvoidaudio output quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies different equalization profiles tailored to specific loudspeaker models rather than using a universal setting. Each loudspeaker type receives customized frequency compensation based on its unique spectral characteristics, ensuring optimal audio reproduction for each device while maintaining automated operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 simplifies and automates the calibration of loudspeakers, ensuring optimal audio playback with minimal user effort by accurately matching equalizer settings to the specific loudspeaker characteristics, enhancing audio fidelity and listening experience.

Implementation Method 1

receiving an acoustic signal from the LUUT by a microphone located at a test location, the microphone generating an electrical loudspeaker test signal response

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAcoustic effect: Acoustics

Data Source

PatentUS20230179935A1Automated loudspeaker detection and implementation of a specific loudspeaker equalization profile to improve loudspeaker audio output
Publication Date: 2023.06.08 CRESTRON ELECTRONICS INC
  • US20230179935A1 patent drawing
  • US20230179935A1 patent drawing
  • US20230179935A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An audio distribution system and method is described herein that optimizes audio equalization settings based on a specific make and model of loudspeaker being used in an audio distribution system. The system and method comprises: generating a loudspeaker test signal; transmitting the loudspeaker test signal to a loudspeaker unit under test (LUUT); receiving an acoustic signal from the LUUT by a microphone located at a test location, the microphone generating an electrical loudspeaker test signal response (loudspeaker test signal response); converting the loudspeaker test signal response to a digitized loudspeaker test signal response; generating a spectral plot of the digitized loudspeaker test signal response for the LUUT; comparing the spectral plot of the LUUT to spectral plots of known loudspeakers, and matching the spectral plot of the LUUT to a spectral plot of a first make and model of a known loudspeaker; and obtaining a set of equalizer settings for the first make and model of the known loudspeaker.