Microphone Positioning via Acoustic Time-of-Flight
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the position of a microphone, such as using pictures or custom tripods, are inadequate as they are subject to individual interpretation and can be time-consuming and expensive, leading to inconsistencies in sound tests due to changes in microphone placement affecting signal interference and amplitudes.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that uses sound signals emitted by multiple speakers to measure distances and determine the actual position of a microphone in three Cartesian coordinates, comparing it to a target position using nonlinear least squares fitting, and providing visual or audio indications of match or mismatch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If pictures are provided to help install the microphone, then the installation process becomes simpler, but the positioning accuracy deteriorates due to individual interpretation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual guidance system (pictures) with an acoustic measurement system. Speakers emit sound signals and the microphone records them, allowing the system to automatically calculate the microphone's position based on time-of-flight measurements, eliminating subjective interpretation while maintaining ease of installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces sound signals as an intermediary between the installation guidance system and the microphone positioning. Instead of directly viewing pictures and interpreting them, the system uses acoustic waves to mediate the positioning process, providing objective, measurable data about the microphone's location.
2Measurement precision
If a custom fixed tripod is provided, then the microphone positioning accuracy is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical tripod structure with a software-based acoustic positioning system. Instead of relying on a fixed physical structure to ensure positioning accuracy, the system uses sound signal timing measurements to determine the microphone's location, significantly reducing device complexity while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual model of the microphone's position in space through acoustic measurements rather than using a physical copy or fixed structure. The system calculates coordinates based on time-of-flight data from multiple speakers, creating a digital representation of position that replaces the need for physical positioning aids.
3Measurement precision
If a custom fixed tripod is used, then the microphone positioning is more accurate, but the installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary positioning calculations automatically once the microphone is placed, rather than requiring time-consuming manual adjustment to fit a fixed tripod. The system emits sound signals and automatically computes the position based on recorded time-of-flight data, significantly reducing installation time while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical adjustment process required for fixed tripod installation with an automated acoustic measurement and calculation system. This substitution eliminates the need for manual positioning adjustments, reducing installation time while preserving positioning precision through computational methods.
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 method accurately and efficiently determines whether the microphone is positioned correctly, ensuring consistent sound test results by providing precise positioning feedback, thus reducing the need for costly and obstructive custom tripods.
Implementation Method 1
emitting a first sound signal via a first speaker positioned at a first speaker position... measuring a first elapsed time between the emission of the first sound signal by the first speaker and a detection of the first sound signal by the microphone
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A method for determining an actual position of a microphone, comprising: sequentially emitting a first sound signal via a first speaker positioned and a second sound signal via a second speaker positioned; measuring a first elapsed time between the emission of the first sound signal and a detection of the first sound signal by the microphone, and a second elapsed time between the emission of the second sound signal and a detection of the second sound signal by the microphone; determining a first distance between the first speaker and the microphone using the first elapsed time, and a second distance between the second speaker and the microphone using the second elapsed time; determining the actual position of the microphone using the first and second distances and the positions of the first and second speaker; and outputting the actual position.