Sidetone Audio Processing Using Shared Noise Reduction Filters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sidetone processing in audio devices, such as headphones and headsets, suffers from latency, inadequate signal processing accuracy, and limited adaptability, leading to difficulties in adjusting speaking volume and maintaining conversational quality during voice calls.
Innovation Solution
An audio device with a signal processor module that processes audio input signals to generate filter parameters, which are then used by a sidetone module for sidetone processing, reducing the need for duplicate processing and minimizing latency, while maintaining noise reduction capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional sidetone processing techniques are used, then sidetone feedback is provided, but latency increases and signal processing accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sidetone processing function with the existing noise reduction module, allowing both functions to share the same signal processing pipeline and resources. This integration eliminates the need for separate processing paths, thereby reducing latency while maintaining signal processing accuracy through the established noise reduction algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The noise reduction module is designed to perform multiple functions: both noise reduction and sidetone processing. By making the module universal, the system avoids duplicating processing functions, reduces overall computational latency, and maintains high signal processing accuracy through the module's optimized algorithms.
2Productivity
If conventional sidetone processing techniques are used, then sidetone feedback is provided, but computational cost increases and battery consumption rises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges sidetone processing with noise reduction operations, allowing both functions to execute within the same computational framework. This consolidation reduces redundant calculations and optimizes resource utilization, thereby improving processing efficiency and reducing battery consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The noise reduction module serves itself by handling both noise reduction and sidetone processing tasks. This self-service approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated hardware or software components for sidetone processing, reducing overall computational overhead and energy consumption.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional sidetone processing techniques are used, then sidetone feedback is provided, but adaptability to different user environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adaptability by allowing the sidetone processing parameters to be adjusted based on environmental conditions and user preferences. The system can dynamically modify processing characteristics while maintaining reliable conversational quality through the robust noise reduction foundation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables parameter changes in the signal processing pipeline to adapt to different user environments. By modifying processing parameters within the integrated module, the system maintains reliability across varying conditions while improving adaptability to specific user needs and environments.
Data Source
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AI summary
An audio device is disclosed comprising a plurality of microphones; an output transducer configured to output a near-end audio output signal; and processor circuitry comprising a signal processor module configured to provide a far-end audio output signal and a sidetone module configured to provide a sidetone audio output signal. The signal processor module is configured to process a first audio input signal and a second audio input signal for provision of a plurality of filter parameters, wherein the sidetone module is configured to obtain first data indicative of the plurality of filter parameters and to process the first audio input signal and the second audio input signal for provision of the sidetone audio output signal using one or more filters based on the first data, and wherein the near-end audio output signal is based on the sidetone audio output signal and a far-end audio input signal.