Sparse Speaker Array Spatial Audio for Multi-Listener 3D Sound
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spatialized sound systems struggle to accurately deliver virtual sound images for multiple listeners outside the sweet spot, especially when using sparse transducer arrays, due to variations in head-related transfer functions and environmental reflections, and they often require complex head-tracking and high computational power.
Innovation Solution
A method for signal processing that optimizes audio signal delivery using a sparse speaker array, employing digital signal processing techniques to control the speaker array and compensate for individual listener variations, while minimizing cross-talk and environmental reflections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If binaural recording techniques are used to create immersive audio, then spatial realism is improved, but compatibility with mono playback devices deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The audio signal is segmented into multiple independent channels (front left, front right, rear left, rear right, center, surround). Each channel is processed separately and can be independently routed to different output devices, allowing the same signal to provide immersive experience on multi-channel systems while being compatible with mono playback through selective channel mixing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional stereo (2-channel) to surround sound (6-channel) by adding spatial dimensions. The audio field is expanded from a planar stereo image to a three-dimensional soundscape with front, rear, center, and surround channels, creating immersion without sacrificing compatibility through proper channel encoding.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional stereo encoding is used for broad device compatibility, then adaptability is improved, but spatial immersion capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The audio encoding system is designed to be universal by creating a multi-channel format that can function on various playback configurations. The same encoded signal can be decoded and played back on mono, stereo, or surround sound systems, with each system utilizing the appropriate channels for its capabilities, thus achieving both compatibility and immersion potential.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts to different playback environments. The encoded audio contains information for multiple spatial configurations, and the playback system dynamically selects and processes the appropriate channels based on the available output devices, enabling the signal to provide optimal spatial immersion for each specific playback scenario.
3Ease of operation
If immersive audio formats are implemented, then user experience is improved, but processing complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The complex spatial processing is performed in advance during the encoding stage, where the multi-channel surround signal is created and organized. This preliminary action allows the immersive audio format to be prepared beforehand, simplifying the playback process as the decoder only needs to route and output the pre-processed channels without performing complex real-time spatial calculations.
Data Source
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AI summary
A signal processing system and method for delivering spatialized sound by optimizing sound waveforms from a sparse array of speakers to the ears of a user. The system can provide listening areas within a room or space, to provide spatialization sounds to create a 3D audio effect. In a binaural mode, a binary speaker array provides targeted beams aimed towards a user's ears.