Multi-Microphone Role Switching for Blocked Audio Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing user terminals with multiple microphones are limited by fixed audio capturing element functionalities, leading to degraded audio quality when the primary microphone is blocked or not optimally positioned relative to the audio signal source.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for adaptive audio capturing, which dynamically determines the functionality of audio capturing elements based on signal amplitude analysis, allowing for real-time switching between primary and auxiliary roles among multiple microphones to maintain high audio quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the primary audio capturing element is fixed in design and manufacturing, then the device structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the audio capturing quality degrades when the primary element is blocked or not optimally positioned
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching of audio capturing element functionalities based on real-time signal quality assessment. The system continuously monitors signal amplitudes from multiple microphones and dynamically reassigns primary and auxiliary roles to optimize audio capture quality under varying conditions such as blocking or suboptimal positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of audio capturing elements by switching their functional roles (primary vs. auxiliary) based on signal characteristics. This parameter change allows the system to adapt to different spatial configurations and environmental conditions without physical reconfiguration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple audio capturing elements are used with fixed primary and auxiliary roles, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the system cannot adapt to various spatial conditions and environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes each audio capturing element universal by enabling them to perform both primary and auxiliary functions depending on spatial conditions. Instead of dedicating specific microphones to fixed roles, any capturing element can assume either role based on real-time assessment of signal quality and spatial configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically reassigns functional roles among audio capturing elements based on real-time signal analysis. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to respond to changing spatial conditions, user hand gestures, and environmental factors, thereby achieving versatility without requiring complex physical reconfiguration.
3Reliability
If the primary audio capturing element is blocked or positioned opposite to the audio signal source, then the device structure remains unchanged, but the audio signal quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors signal amplitudes from multiple audio capturing elements and uses this feedback to determine the optimal primary capturing element. When the original primary element is blocked or poorly positioned, the feedback mechanism detects the degradation and triggers a role switch to an alternative element with better signal quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares multiple audio capturing elements in advance, all capable of functioning as primary elements. This prior preparation ensures that when blocking or suboptimal positioning occurs, an alternative element is already available to take over, cushioning against quality degradation without requiring complex real-time reconfiguration.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention relate to adaptive audio capturing. A method for adaptive audio capturing is disclosed. The method comprising obtaining an audio signal through an audio channel associated with an audio capturing element on a user terminal; calculating a signal amplitude for the audio channel by processing the obtained audio signal; and determining a functionality of the audio capturing element based on the signal amplitude and a further signal amplitude for at least one further audio channel associated with at least one further audio capturing element on the user terminal. Corresponding apparatus, computer program product, and user terminal are also disclosed.