Sound Localization Point for Electronic Calls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices provide monophonic or stereophonic sound that lacks the spatial quality of sound experienced in face-to-face interactions, such as during telephone calls, where listeners cannot accurately localize the sound source.
Innovation Solution
The system creates a sound localization point (SLP) that simulates the origin of sound for a listener, using head-related transfer functions (HRTFs), interaural time differences (ITDs), and interaural level differences (ILDs) to process sound in real-time, allowing the sound to appear to emanate from a specific location even as the listener moves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If monophonic or stereophonic sound is provided through speakers or headphones, then speech intelligibility is good, but spatial sound quality equivalent to face-to-face interaction is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying sound properties through head-related transfer functions (HRTFs) that alter timing, intensity, and spectral characteristics of sound waves to simulate natural acoustic propagation from specific spatial locations, thereby achieving face-to-face interaction quality sound without physical proximity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing system that acts as a mediator between the sound source and listener, using electronic devices to capture, process, and reproduce sound with spatial localization properties that mimic direct acoustic transmission, thus bridging the gap between remote and face-to-face communication
2Adaptability or versatility
If sound is transmitted through electronic device speakers or headphones, then communication is enabled at a distance, but the sound does not appear to emanate from a specific location in space
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes sound parameters by applying HRTFs that modify arrival time, intensity levels, and frequency content based on the intended sound localization point, enabling the sound to be perceived as originating from specific spatial locations even when transmitted through electronic devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds spatial dimensionality to electronic sound transmission by incorporating three-dimensional localization information (azimuth, elevation, and distance) into the audio signal processing, transforming flat monophonic or stereophonic sound into spatially immersive audio that mimics natural acoustic environments
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
This solution enhances the auditory experience by providing sound localization that mimics real-life interactions, allowing listeners to perceive sound as if it were originating from specific points in space, even in electronic calls.
Implementation Method 1
using head-related transfer functions (HRTFs), interaural time differences (ITDs), and interaural level differences (ILDs) to process sound in real-time
Implementation Method 2
using head-related transfer functions (HRTFs), interaural time differences (ITDs), and interaural level differences (ILDs) to process sound in real-time
Data Source
AI summary
During an electronic call between two individuals, a sound localization point simulates a location in empty space from where an origin of a voice of one individual occurs for the other individual.