Networked Noise Filtering for Subjective Audio Nuisances
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing noise filtering technologies, such as active noise control (ANC) systems, struggle to effectively filter noise that is subjective to users, particularly noises that are useful for one individual but a nuisance to another, like cash register beeps or emergency vehicle sirens.
Innovation Solution
A noise filtering method that utilizes a network of terminals connected via a communication network to detect, predict, and collaboratively filter noise nuisances. This method involves picking up noise with a microphone, applying filters to generate a second noise, and sharing information about the noise across the network to improve filtering effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If active noise control systems broadcast inverse sound to attenuate noise, then noise filtering effectiveness is improved for periodic noises, but the system cannot correctly filter non-periodic or unusual noises
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection and classification of noise types before applying filtering. By detecting whether a noise is periodic, non-periodic, or unusual in advance, the system can select the appropriate filtering strategy (inverse sound broadcast for periodic noises, or no filtering for non-periodic/unusual noises), thereby avoiding ineffective filtering while maintaining adaptability to different noise types
Solution Approach 2:
The noise filtering system dynamically adapts its behavior based on real-time detection of noise characteristics. The system switches between different filtering modes (active noise control for periodic noises, passive filtering or no action for non-periodic/unusual noises) depending on the detected noise type, enabling it to effectively handle diverse noise scenarios without being constrained by a single filtering approach
2Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional filtering systems like earplugs or passive headphones are used, then noise reduction is achieved, but the risk of accidents increases by preventing users from hearing important signals
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies selective filtering at the individual user level based on their specific needs and context. Instead of uniform filtering for all users, the system determines whether each user should receive filtered noise or original noise based on their activity, environment, and potential safety requirements, thereby reducing noise pollution impact while maintaining safety awareness where needed
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor user needs and environmental conditions in real-time. By continuously assessing whether a user requires noise filtering or needs to hear important signals, the system dynamically adjusts the filtering application, balancing noise reduction benefits with safety requirements and preventing accidents
3Adaptability or versatility
If wideband active noise control systems are used, then broader frequency range filtering is achieved, but phase offset errors generate noise on the signal
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of noise characteristics before applying wideband active noise control filtering. By detecting whether the noise is periodic or non-periodic in advance, the system determines whether to apply filtering at all, thereby avoiding phase offset errors and generated noise when filtering is not appropriate, while still maintaining the capability to filter periodic noises effectively
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
The method enhances noise filtering by allowing terminals to anticipate and parameterize noise filtering based on contextual and subjective noise characteristics, improving overall noise reduction while allowing useful noises to be retained.
Implementation Method 1
picking up a first noise coming from a source using said microphone
Implementation Method 2
generating or not generating a second noise resulting from application of a filter to the first noise
Implementation Method 3
rendering or not rendering the second noise to the user via the audio output and via said headset
Data Source
AI summary
A noise filtering method is implemented by a terminal equipped with a microphone and with an audio output, the terminal connected to a communication network and used by a user equipped with a headset connected to the terminal. The method includes picking up, using the microphone, a first noise coming from a source, generating or not generating a second noise resulting from application of a filter to the first noise, rendering or not rendering the second noise to the user via the audio output and via the headset, and sending information relating to the first noise to at least another terminal connected to the network, this information used by at least the other terminal to filter the first noise.