Parametric Array Echolocation Device for Visually Impaired
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Solution Overview
Problem
Visually impaired individuals face challenges in detecting objects at a distance and above the waist using traditional echolocation methods due to the limited range and strength of mouth-generated sound signals, which are also masked by the original sound, making it difficult to interpret echoes effectively.
Innovation Solution
A parametric array-based echolocation device with a transducer array positioned away from the user, generating a narrow, high-intensity ultrasonic sound beam that is absorbed in the near field, allowing for the detection of objects at greater distances and higher elevations without masking the echo, using a handle or cane member and an electronics unit with a power source, sound card, and modulator to control the signal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If mouth-click signals are used for echolocation, then the device complexity is reduced, but the signal strength and detection range are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an electronic device as an intermediary between the user and the environment. The electronic device includes a transducer array that converts electrical signals to acoustic signals, acting as a mediator that amplifies the user's echolocation capability without requiring the user to generate strong sounds themselves.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical sound generation method (mouth-clicking) with an electronic-acoustic system. Instead of relying on human vocal apparatus to generate sound waves, the system uses electronic circuitry to generate signals that are then converted to acoustic waves by transducers, substituting a mechanical-biological system with an electronic one.
2Device complexity
If mouth-generated sound signals are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the detection distance is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic device serves as an intermediary that extends the user's perceptual range. By placing transducers at a distance from the user's ear and using electronic signal processing, the system mediates between the acoustic environment and the user's hearing, enabling detection at distances far beyond what mouth-click echolocation can achieve.
3Measurement precision
If the transducer array is positioned close to the user's ear, then the echo reception is improved, but the original sound masks the echo
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sound generation and sound reception functions into spatially separated components. The transducer array is positioned away from the user's ear, creating physical separation between the sound source and the receiver. This segmentation allows the outgoing sound and incoming echo to be distinguished more clearly, preventing masking.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces spatial dimensionality to the echolocation system by positioning transducers at a distance from the user's ear rather than at the ear itself. This dimensional separation in space allows the system to distinguish between outgoing and incoming sounds by their spatial origin, resolving the masking problem.
4Measurement precision
If ultrasonic transducers are used to generate narrow sound beams, then the detection precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic circuitry and transducer array act as intermediaries that translate simple electronic signals into focused acoustic beams. This intermediary system handles the complexity of beam formation, allowing the user to benefit from precise directional sound without directly managing the complex mechanics of sound focusing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical sound focusing mechanisms with electronic signal processing and transducer arrays. Instead of using mechanical means to create directional sound beams, the system uses electronic circuitry to generate signals that are converted to focused acoustic beams by the transducers, substituting mechanical complexity with electronic control.
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
Enables visually impaired individuals to detect objects more accurately at greater distances and higher elevations using their own echolocation skills, without the need for headphones or distracting feedback, by projecting the sound beam away from the user and enhancing echo reception.
Implementation Method 1
A parametric array-based echolocation device with a transducer array positioned away from the user, generating a narrow, high-intensity ultrasonic sound beam
Implementation Method 2
generating a narrow, high-intensity ultrasonic sound beam that is absorbed in the near field
Implementation Method 3
a parametric array is a nonlinear transduction mechanism that uses ultrasonic transducers to generate a narrow beam of audio band frequency sound, through the mixing and interaction of high intensity ultrasonic soundwaves
Implementation Method 4
Human echolocation allows humans to detect objects in their environment by generating sounds and sensing echoes from the sounds created by objects in front of him or her
Data Source
AI summary
The present device is an object detection device for assisting individuals with visual impairments to detect objects in front of him or her when walking or riding a bike. The device preferably includes an assistive device like a cane and an echolocation device coupled to the walking assistive device. When a user signals for the echolocation device to do so, the echolocation device uses a parametric array to generate a sound beam. If an object is in front of the user, the audible narrow sound beam reflects off of the object creating a strong, clear echo sound beam toward the user's ear. Because the user is preferably trained in echolocation, he or she is able to determine the distance, position, and possibly the type of object.