Microphone Array Optimal Pickup Pattern Selection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Microphone arrays using beamforming techniques face challenges in unpredictability, high processing power requirements, and difficulty in selecting optimal pickup patterns, leading to suboptimal sound acquisition and dynamics in noise environments.
Innovation Solution
A microphone array system that automatically selects an optimal pickup pattern from predefined patterns based on voice activity detection and audio signal analysis, minimizing ambient noise while maintaining dynamic recording capabilities with reduced processing power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If beamforming techniques are used to direct sensitivity in different directions, then sound acquisition in specific directions is enhanced, but the system becomes unpredictable and requires substantial processing power
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the continuous beamforming process into discrete, predefined pickup patterns (e.g., omnidirectional, cardioid, figure-8). Instead of continuously adjusting beam direction and shape, the system segments the pickup pattern space into manageable, pre-configured options that can be selected based on detected sound directions, thereby reducing computational complexity while maintaining directional control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-calculates and stores multiple pickup patterns before operation. These patterns are prepared in advance based on expected sound directions, allowing the system to quickly switch between predefined patterns rather than computing optimal beams in real-time, thus reducing processing power requirements during actual sound acquisition.
2Measurement precision
If beam is constantly adjusted according to sound, then sensitivity is optimized, but dynamics of recording are diminished
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic switching between multiple predefined pickup patterns based on detected sound directions. Rather than maintaining a constantly adjusted single beam, the system dynamically selects from discrete patterns (omnidirectional, cardioid, figure-8) to match the spatial distribution of sound sources, preserving recording dynamics while adapting to different acoustic scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the pickup pattern parameters (directional characteristics) based on the spatial distribution of detected sounds. By switching between predefined patterns with different directional responses, the system adapts its sensitivity characteristics to match the acoustic environment, optimizing sound acquisition while maintaining recording dynamics.
3Measurement precision
If optimal pickup pattern is selected for each situation, then signal-to-noise ratio is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system continuously monitors sound directions and automatically selects the most appropriate predefined pickup pattern based on the detected acoustic environment. This closed-loop approach optimizes signal-to-noise ratio by matching pickup patterns to actual sound sources without requiring manual intervention or complex decision-making processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the microphone array system to automatically select optimal pickup patterns based on its own detection of sound directions. The system serves itself by using its built-in detection capabilities to identify acoustic scenarios and autonomously switch between predefined patterns, eliminating the need for external control or complex user decisions.
Data Source
AI summary
A microphone array is configured to select an optimal pickup pattern of a microphone array including at least two microphones each associated with a predefined microphone pickup pattern. The optimal pickup pattern is selected from a list of predefined pickup patterns including the predefined microphone pickup patterns and predefined mixed pickup patterns. A method of selecting an optimal pickup pattern includes receiving microphone audio signals from the microphones to establish a plurality of microphone audio signals and mixing them in accordance with the plurality of predefined mixed pickup patterns to establish a plurality of mixed audio signals. Individual level characteristics of respective individual microphone audio signals and of respective individual mixed audio signals are determined, and an optimal pickup pattern is selected from the list of predefined pickup patterns based on the individual level characteristics.