Sound Localization Apparatus with Adjustable Emphasis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sound localization techniques using head-related transfer functions are insufficient in accurately adjusting the emphasis degree of sound image localization for listeners, as the factors affecting this emphasis are not clearly understood and difficult to control.
Innovation Solution
A sound localization apparatus that stores multiple acoustic transfer characteristics corresponding to different sound image directions and emphasis degrees, allowing selection and convolution with audio signals to generate localized sound information, incorporating interaural level and time differences for independent leftward and rightward sound localization control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If head-related transfer function is used to localize sound image, then sound pressure at listener's ears is accurately reappeared, but the emphasis degree of feeling of localization cannot be adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The head-related transfer function is segmented into multiple components: HRTF(θ, φ, f) is decomposed into magnitude |HRTF(θ, φ, f)| and phase ∠HRTF(θ, φ, f), with the magnitude further separated into pinna transfer function P(f) and head-related transfer function H(θ, φ, f). This segmentation allows independent control of different acoustic characteristics, enabling adjustment of emphasis degree while maintaining sound pressure accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the emphasis degree of localization by applying different gain coefficients to the pinna transfer function component. The gain can be varied based on listener preferences and sound image direction, transforming a static HRTF application into a dynamic, adaptable system that maintains acoustic accuracy while providing control over localization emphasis.
2Ease of operation
If conventional sound localization is used, then sound image can be localized at desired position, but the factors affecting emphasis degree are not clear and difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by directing processed audio signals to specific ears independently. The left ear receives signal convolved with HRTF for left ear, and right ear receives signal convolved with HRTF for right ear, with different gain applications for each ear based on sound image direction. This localized processing simplifies control while achieving accurate localization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes parameters by varying the gain coefficient applied to the pinna transfer function based on sound image direction and listener preferences. By adjusting this parameter, the emphasis degree of localization is controlled without complicating the overall system structure, maintaining ease of operation while providing fine-grained 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 precise adjustment of sound image localization emphasis to match listener preferences by using selected acoustic transfer characteristics and interaural differences, effectively recreating the acoustic effects of human pinnae for enhanced sound localization.
Implementation Method 1
a first operation unit configured to convolute the suitable acoustic transfer characteristic with a first audio signal to obtain a second audio signal
Implementation Method 2
a second operation unit configured to assign an interaural level difference and an interaural time difference to the second audio signal, and obtain a pair of audio signals to which leftward and rightward localization information is assigned
Implementation Method 3
a second operation unit configured to assign an interaural level difference and an interaural time difference to the second audio signal
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a sound localization apparatus includes a storage unit, a selection unit, and a first operation unit. The storage unit stores a plurality of acoustic transfer characteristics each corresponding to a sound image direction and an emphasis degree of feeling of localization. The selection unit is configured to select a suitable acoustic transfer characteristic from the plurality of acoustic transfer characteristics. The suitable acoustic transfer characteristic is most suitable for the sound image direction indicated by a direction indication information and the emphasis degree indicated by an emphasis degree indication information. The first operation unit is configured to convolute the suitable acoustic transfer characteristic with a first audio signal to obtain a second audio signal.