Sound Localization for Game and System Audio
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sound localization technologies in surround sound systems, such as those used in gaming and video reproduction, often fail to effectively differentiate between virtual and system-generated sounds, leading to a lack of immersion and clarity in audio experience.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus connected to multiple speakers, which includes separate localization processing and sound output sections to independently localize sound images of content and system-generated sounds at distinct positions, utilizing head-related transfer functions to simulate three-dimensional sound sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If notification sound is outputted from system to user playing game, then user receives system information, but sound localization is not provided and immersion is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sound output system into two independent localization processing sections: one for content sound (game audio) and one for agent sound (system notifications). Each section independently localizes its respective sound type to different spatial positions, allowing notification sounds to be localized without affecting game sound immersion and vice versa.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary classification mechanism that identifies and separates agent sounds from content sounds before localization processing. This intermediary step enables the system to apply different localization strategies to different sound types, preserving game immersion while providing spatial awareness for system notifications.
2Illumination intensity
If virtual surround technology is used to provide surround sound, then stereophonic effect is improved, but sound image differentiation between content and system sounds is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different localization characteristics to different sound types. Content sounds (game audio) are localized to positions consistent with the virtual environment, while agent sounds (system notifications) are localized to distinct positions that identify them as system-generated. This localized differentiation maintains stereophonic effects while enabling sound source identification.
3Quantity of substance
If notification sound is outputted at uniform volume from multiple speakers, then system information is delivered, but sound image localization and immersive experience are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic localization processing for agent sounds, where the localization parameters (volume distribution across speakers, timing) are adjusted based on the specific notification context. This dynamic approach enables precise sound image positioning for system notifications, transforming static uniform volume output into dynamic spatially-accurate audio delivery.
Data Source
AI summary
A game sound localization processing section localizes the sound image of a game sound. A game sound output section supplies localized game sound data to speakers. An agent sound localization processing section localizes the sound image of an agent sound at a second localization position that is different from a first localization position where the sound image of the game sound is localized. An agent sound output section supplies localized agent sound data to the speakers.