Multi-dimensional Sound Direction Mapping for Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for guiding individuals with visual impairments using sound are limited to one-dimensional direction expression, making it complex to provide detailed directional instructions and are costly due to the need for multiple sound sources.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that output a combination of sounds to express moving directions multi-dimensionally, specifically two-dimensionally, by associating different sound information with predetermined directions and combining sounds in ratios to identify and convey the moving direction, allowing for effective navigation without requiring multiple sound sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional one-dimensional sound direction expression is used, then the system is simple and cost-effective, but it cannot provide detailed two-dimensional directional instructions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional sound direction expression to two-dimensional directional information by combining multiple sound sources with different spatial positions. Each sound source represents a different direction, and their combination enables precise two-dimensional directional guidance while maintaining system simplicity.
2Loss of information
If multiple sound sources are used to provide accurate two-dimensional directional information, then directional precision is improved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the directional information space into multiple discrete directions, each represented by a separate sound source. By segmenting the directional coverage and using a small number of strategically positioned sound sources, the system achieves two-dimensional directional precision without requiring a large-scale array of speakers.
3Device complexity
If one-dimensional directional sounds are repeated intermittently, then the system remains simple, but it becomes complicated to provide detailed directional instructions and difficult for users to catch instructions when overlapped with other sounds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sound sources that represent different directions simultaneously, creating a composite sound field that encodes two-dimensional directional information. This merging approach allows users to perceive detailed directional instructions in a single continuous audio output rather than through repeated intermittent one-dimensional cues.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for mapping a moving direction by using sounds for people with visual impairments, in which a moving direction can be expressed multi-dimensionally by using sound information and can effectively assist people with visual impairments and the like in navigation tasks. A moving direction of a person carrying a device configured to output sounds is mapped by using a combination of sounds outputted from the device. A plurality of different sound information pieces are stored in association with three or more predetermined directions, respectively, a current position of the moving target device is identified, and then a moving direction of the device is identified. A sound obtained by combining two sounds in a ratio according to the identified moving direction is outputted on the basis of sound information pieces associated respectively with two adjacent directions sandwiching the identified moving direction among the predetermined directions.