Automated Sound Projector Setup Using Fuzzy Clustering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional surround-sound systems require complex setup procedures and trained installers, as they rely on trial and error to determine optimal beam-steering angles and delay settings for sound beams, which are sensitive to room geometry and reflective surfaces, making it difficult for less-trained personnel to install effectively.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a combination of methods, including user-guided setup guides, microphone-assisted measurements, and automated impulse response analysis using fuzzy clustering algorithms to determine beam directions and delay settings, allowing for accurate setup without extensive expertise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If trial and error method is used to determine beam-steering angles and delay settings, then the system can achieve accurate sound beam direction, but the setup procedure becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically performs measurements and calculations to determine optimal beam-steering angles and delay settings without requiring manual trial and error by installers. The Sound Projector itself conducts the setup process by measuring room geometry and acoustic characteristics, then computing the necessary parameters autonomously.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary measurements of room geometry, wall positions, and acoustic reflectors before the actual installation is complete. By gathering and analyzing this data in advance, the system pre-calculates the optimal beam-steering angles and delay settings, eliminating the need for complex on-site adjustments.
2Measurement precision
If trained installers are used for setup, then accurate beam direction and delay settings can be achieved, but the ease of operation decreases for untrained personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to perform self-setup without requiring trained installers. It automatically measures the room environment, identifies acoustic reflectors, calculates optimal beam parameters, and configures itself, making the process accessible to untrained personnel while maintaining high accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical adjustment process (performed by trained installers) with an automated electronic measurement and calculation system. The system uses electronic sensors and processors to measure room characteristics and compute beam parameters, substituting human expertise with automated intelligent algorithms.
3Productivity
If automated measurement methods are used, then setup time is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual measurement tools and methods with electronic measurement devices and automated calculation algorithms. This substitution enables rapid automated measurement of room geometry and acoustic characteristics while maintaining high precision through sophisticated signal processing and mathematical modeling.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where measurement results are continuously refined and verified. The automated measurement process includes validation steps and iterative optimization that ensure high precision is achieved even though the process is rapid and automated.
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
Facilitates the installation of Sound Projector systems by providing user-friendly setup options that automatically determine optimal beam directions and delay settings, reducing setup time and improving accuracy for both trained and untrained users.
Implementation Method 1
an array of acoustic transducers capable of receiving an audio input signal and producing beams of audible sound
Implementation Method 2
The Sound Projector generates the surround-sound environment by emitting beams of sound each representing one of the above channels and reflecting such beams from surfaces such as ceiling and walls back to the listener
Data Source
AI summary
An example set-up method for a loudspeaker system capable of generating at least one directed beam of audio sound includes emitting directional beams of set-up sound signals from the loudspeaker system into a room, registering at least one reflection of the emitted signals at one or more locations within the room, and evaluating the registered reflected signals to obtain data for use in configuring the surround sound system.