NFMI Synchronization for Hearing Aid Stereo Image Consistency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication systems for hearing aids and audio devices face challenges in synchronizing audio data between multiple devices, leading to inconsistent audio quality and stereo image distortion due to independent processing and enhancement algorithms on each device, which results in different gain settings and latency issues.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of Near-Field Magnetic Induction (NFMI) synchronization between wireless devices, such as earbuds and smartphones, allows for the exchange of audio data and processing parameters, enabling synchronized signal amplitude, power adjustment, equalization, and Dynamic Range Compression (DRC) across devices, preserving the stereo image and improving user experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If independent processing and enhancement algorithms are applied on each wireless device, then device-specific audio optimization is improved, but synchronization between devices deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the first wireless device sends processed audio data to the second device, which then adjusts its independent processing parameters based on this feedback to maintain synchronization. This allows each device to optimize for its specific characteristics while coordinating with the other device through continuous feedback loops.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing parameters of the second device are made dynamic rather than static, allowing them to adjust in real-time based on the audio data received from the first device. This dynamic adjustment enables the system to maintain synchronization while still applying device-specific optimizations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different gain settings are applied on each device, then audio quality adaptation to device characteristics is improved, but stereo image consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The first wireless device performs preliminary processing and sends the results to the second device before the second device applies its own processing. This preliminary action ensures that the base audio signal is consistent, and subsequent device-specific adjustments maintain stereo image integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
Each device applies local quality optimizations tailored to its specific characteristics (acoustic profile, sensor profile, transducer profile) while maintaining overall system consistency through the coordinated processing approach where the second device adjusts its local processing based on data from the first device.
3Ease of operation
If wireless communication protocols are used for data transfer, then device connectivity is improved, but data synchronization latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses an intermediary approach where the first device processes audio data and sends it to the second device, which then uses this data as input for its own processing. This intermediary data transfer through NFMI communication enables coordinated processing while maintaining reasonable latency levels for wireless operation.
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
NFMI synchronization enhances audio quality by ensuring identical gain settings and low latency exchange of data, maintaining a consistent stereo image and improving the overall listening experience by synchronizing audio playback and enhancement algorithms across devices.
Implementation Method 1
a near-field magnetic induction (NFMI) signal input configured to receive a second set of processed audio data and processing parameters from a second wireless device
Data Source
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AI summary
One example discloses an apparatus for synchronization, including: a first wireless device, having a first device profile, a near-field magnetic induction (NFMI) signal input and a wireless signal input; wherein the first wireless device is configured to, receive, through the wireless signal input, a first set of data; optimize the first set of data based on the first device profile; receive, through the NFMI signal input, a second set of data optimized for a second device profile of a second wireless device; and synchronize the first and second sets of optimized data based on a set of common data attributes.