Sound Image Localization for Virtual Object Presence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing entertainment technologies, such as those described in Patent Literature 1, fail to effectively immerse users in interactive experiences while on the move, as they do not consider the user's perspective or movement, leading to a lack of realism in the interaction with virtual characters.
Innovation Solution
An information processing device that calculates the localization position of a virtual object's sound source relative to the user, using sensors and sound image localization to create a realistic audio experience, allowing the user to feel as if the virtual object exists in their environment, by adjusting sound positions and types based on the user's state and movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sound image localization is used to create a realistic audio experience, then the user can feel the presence of virtual objects in real space, but the device complexity increases due to the need for calculation units and sound processing units
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses sound image localization as an intermediary mechanism to bridge the virtual and real spaces. By processing sound signals through calculation units that determine localization positions and sound processing units that generate localized audio, the system creates a mediator (localized sound image) that allows users to perceive virtual objects as if they exist in real space, thereby resolving the contradiction between realism and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical presence of virtual objects with acoustic field manipulation. Instead of requiring complex mechanical or visual systems to manifest virtual objects physically, the system substitutes these with sound image localization technology, using audio processing to create the perception of presence without the need for complex physical infrastructure.
2Reliability
If the system adjusts sound positions and types based on user state and movement, then the immersion and realism are enhanced, but the calculation and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calculations of localization positions based on pre-acquired user information (position, orientation, movement state) before actual sound output. By preparing the sound image localization data in advance and updating it continuously as user state changes, the system reduces real-time processing demands while maintaining high immersion quality during interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of sound localization parameters according to user movement and state changes. The system continuously updates localization positions and sound characteristics based on real-time user data, creating a dynamic audio environment that adapts to user actions. This dynamic approach enhances immersion while optimizing processing efficiency by updating only necessary parameters.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the virtual object interacts with user movement and state, then the entertainment value increases, but the system complexity increases due to multiple sensor integrations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal information processing approach where a single information processing device integrates multiple functions: acquiring user position and state data, calculating localization positions, processing sound signals, and outputting localized audio. This multi-functional device consolidates what would otherwise require separate sensors and processing systems, thereby increasing interaction capability while managing overall system complexity through functional integration.
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
The solution enables users to feel the presence of virtual objects in real space, enhancing the realism and immersion of interactive experiences, even while moving, by accurately localizing sounds to correspond with the user's perspective and actions.
Implementation Method 1
a sound image localization unit configured to perform a sound signal process of the sound source such that a sound image is localized at the calculated localization position
Data Source
AI summary
[Object] To provide an information processing device, control method, and program that are capable of showing presence of a virtual object in a real space.[Solution] The information processing device includes: a calculation unit configured to calculate a localization position of a sound source of a virtual object relative to a user on the basis of information on the virtual object and information on a state of the user, the virtual object causing the user to feel as if the virtual object exists in a real space through sound image localization; and a sound image localization unit configured to perform a sound signal process of the sound source such that a sound image is localized at the calculated localization position.