Intelligent conversation control in wearable audio systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wearable audio systems lack the ability to seamlessly manage multiple conversations or audio interactions without user intervention, as they cannot discern the direction the user is facing to automatically route audio signals effectively.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating dual microphones positioned on either side of the neck or shoulder housing, a processor compares audio signals to determine the user's head orientation, allowing it to dynamically route audio to different destinations such as voice user interfaces, virtual personal assistants, or active calls based on the user's direction of gaze.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If wearable audio systems use single microphone or fixed audio routing, then device complexity is reduced, but the system cannot automatically discern user direction or manage multiple conversations effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The audio system is segmented into multiple independent audio signal destinations (first audio signal destination and second audio signal destination), each capable of handling different conversation types. The processor independently routes audio signals to different destinations based on detected head orientation, enabling parallel management of multiple conversations without requiring a single complex routing system.
Solution Approach 2:
The audio signal routing is made dynamic through real-time detection of head orientation using microphones and processors. The system automatically adjusts which audio destination receives the signal based on the user's current head position, transitioning between destinations as the user turns their head. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to seamlessly manage multiple conversations without manual intervention.
2Extent of automation
If wearable audio systems add dual microphones and directional detection, then automatic audio routing capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting head orientation through the microphones and processor, and autonomously routing audio signals to the appropriate destination without requiring user intervention. The wearable device monitors its own state (head position) and independently makes routing decisions, reducing the need for complex external controls or manual configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The microphone system and processor serve multiple functions: they detect head orientation for routing decisions, identify user speech, and determine which audio destination should receive the signal. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components for each task, managing complexity through versatile use of existing elements.
3Ease of operation
If wearable audio systems use manual control adjustments for each conversation, then device complexity is minimized, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback by continuously monitoring head orientation through the microphones and using this information to automatically adjust audio routing. The processor receives real-time feedback about user head position and dynamically switches between audio destinations accordingly, creating a closed-loop system that adapts to user behavior without requiring manual controls.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus is configured to rest on a wearer's neck or shoulders, and has a first microphone positioned at a first position located on the right side of the wearer, when the apparatus is worn, and a second microphone positioned at a second position located on the left side of the wearer. A processor receives audio signals output by the first and second microphones, and compares the audio signals from the first microphone to the audio signals from the second microphone. Based on the comparison, the processor determines whether the wearer's head is rotated to the right, left, or center, during an instance of the user speaking. Based on the determination, the processor selects a first one of at least two audio signal destinations, and provides the audio signal from at least one of the microphones to the first selected audio signal destination.