Modular Sound Units Synchronizing Clock Signals for Compact Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
In speaker array systems with a small number of units, there is limited freedom in localizing sound images and a restricted range of producible sound beams, and increasing the number of units leads to a larger apparatus size, making installation and transport difficult, while simply juxtaposing multiple speaker arrays does not allow them to function as a single unit without establishing correlations in sound signal processing timing.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising sound units with a connection section for communication, a connection detection section to synchronize clock and control signals, and a signal supply section to synchronize and process sound signals across units, enabling them to operate as a single sound apparatus by compensating for internal time delays and synchronizing clock signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the number of speaker units is increased to enhance sound image localization freedom and expand frequency bands, then the degree of freedom and frequency range are improved, but the apparatus size increases making installation and transport difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a large-scale speaker array system into multiple smaller, independent speaker array units that can be connected together. Each unit contains a manageable number of speaker drivers (e.g., 2-10 drivers per unit), allowing the system to achieve high degrees of freedom through modular connection rather than using a single large array. This enables flexible configuration where units can be arranged in series or parallel to achieve desired sound field characteristics without requiring all units to be deployed simultaneously in one location.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a hierarchical structure where multiple speaker array units are nested within a unified control system. Each unit operates as an independent element but is coordinated through a master control device that manages signal distribution and timing across all units. This nested architecture allows the system to function as a single integrated apparatus while maintaining the compact, transportable nature of individual units.
2Volume of moving object
If multiple speaker arrays are juxtaposed to maintain compact size, then the apparatus size is reduced, but the arrays cannot function as a single unit without establishing correlations in sound signal processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where each speaker array unit reports its operational status, signal reception timing, and performance metrics to a central control device. The control device uses this feedback information to dynamically adjust signal parameters, timing offsets, and coordination protocols to ensure all units function as a unified system. This feedback loop enables automatic synchronization and resolves coordination complexities without requiring manual configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a master control device as an intermediary between multiple speaker array units. This intermediary manages all signal routing, timing coordination, and parameter synchronization across units. The control device receives input signals, processes them with appropriate delays and adjustments for each unit, and distributes coordinated signals to all speaker arrays, enabling them to function as a single integrated system while maintaining individual unit compactness.
3Ease of operation
If speaker arrays are configured to operate independently, then the system is easier to operate, but they cannot achieve unified sound field functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic operational mode where speaker array units can switch between independent operation and coordinated unified operation. The system allows users to configure units to operate autonomously for simple applications or to be integrated into a unified sound field system for complex applications. The control device dynamically adjusts signal processing parameters based on the operational mode, enabling the system to adapt its complexity level to match the application requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
In each sound unit, when connection with another sound unit is detected, an input control signal is supplied to a control section and then supplied to the adjoining sound unit. Input clock signal is supplied to a PLL section, and an output clock signal from the PLL section is supplied to the adjoining sound unit. Input speaker output signal and microphone input signal are supplied to a speaker output signal processing section and microphone input signal processing section, respectively. The speaker output signal processing section performs predetermined signal processing on an input signal to output the resultant processed signal to a speaker array, and then performs internal delay compensation processing on the signal to output the resultant processed signal to the adjoining sound unit. The microphone input signal processing section calculates a sum of the input signal and sums of delayed signals of outputs from the microphone array and then performs internal delay compensation processing on the signal to output the resultant processed signal to the adjoining sound unit.