Playback Audio Equalization Using Environmental Reflections
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing audio playback systems require manual adjustment of equalization based on environment, which is often overlooked, requires a separate microphone, and does not adapt well to changes in speaker positions, limiting the dynamic adjustment of audio settings.
Innovation Solution
A playback device with a microphone and processor that emits an audio signal and detects reflections to determine environmental characteristics, adjusting equalization settings automatically to optimize audio output based on the environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment of equalization is implemented, then audio settings can be customized for different environments, but the process is often overlooked by users and requires additional equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The playback device automatically performs equalization adjustment by detecting environmental acoustics and processing the detected signal to determine optimal settings, eliminating the need for manual user intervention. The device serves itself by autonomously adapting to the acoustic environment through self-diagnosis and self-adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the microphone to detect reflected audio signals and feeds this information back to the processor, which then adjusts the equalization settings based on the environmental characteristics. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables continuous optimization of audio output according to the actual acoustic conditions.
2Measurement precision
If a separate microphone is used for detection, then environmental acoustics can be measured, but the device complexity and required equipment increase
Solution Approach 1:
The playback device integrates multiple functions into a single unit: it serves as both the audio source (speaker) and the detection device (microphone). The same device that plays audio also captures the reflected signals, eliminating the need for separate dedicated equipment and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the audio playback function and environmental detection function into a single integrated system. The speaker and microphone are merged into one playback device, allowing the device to both emit audio signals and detect their reflections without requiring separate components.
3Ease of operation
If factory configuration is used, then the device is ready to use immediately, but it does not adapt to changes in speaker positions or different environments
Solution Approach 1:
The equalization settings are made dynamic rather than static. The system continuously or periodically re-evaluates the acoustic environment and adjusts settings in real-time based on detected changes. This dynamic adaptation allows the device to maintain optimal performance regardless of position changes or environmental variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary environmental assessment by emitting test audio signals and detecting reflections before finalizing the equalization settings. This preliminary action enables the device to pre-adjust to the environment, ensuring optimal sound quality from the start without requiring manual configuration.
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
Enhances the listening experience by dynamically adjusting audio settings to suit the environment, improving sound quality without the need for manual intervention or additional equipment.
Implementation Method 1
at least a portion of the second audio signal is a reflection of the first audio signal
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments described herein may involve dynamically adjusting the equalization of a playback device based on the environment in which the playback device is operating. An example embodiment may involve detecting, by at least one microphone, an audio signal. The example embodiment may also involve selecting a playback device environment from among two or more playback device environments based on the detected audio signal. The example embodiment may further involve identifying an audio setting corresponding to the selected playback device environment; and applying the audio setting when playing media content.