Spatial Audio Proximity Simulation via Distance-Controlled Exciter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current audio signal processing techniques fail to effectively manipulate audio signals to create realistic proximity effects in spatial audio scenarios, particularly in virtual and augmented reality applications, where accurately simulating the distance of a spatial audio source to a listener is challenging.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that utilize an exciter with a band-pass filter, non-linear processor, and combiner, controlled by a controller to adjust parameters based on the distance between the spatial audio source and the listener, enhancing frequency components and non-linear effects to simulate proximity effects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If common audio signal processing techniques (adapting loudness level and group delay) are used to simulate spatial audio effects, then the implementation is simple, but the realism of proximity effects is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting multiple audio signal parameters including loudness level, group delay, brightness, and spectral content based on the distance between the audio source and listener. This comprehensive parameter adaptation resolves the contradiction by achieving realistic proximity effects through coordinated modification of multiple signal characteristics rather than relying on simple single-parameter adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the audio signal processing into distinct functional components: a exciter module that manipulates spectral content and brightness, and a distance controller that coordinates parameter adjustments across different frequency ranges. This segmentation allows complex proximity effects to be achieved through modular processing stages, managing system complexity while improving realism.
2Manufacturing precision
If an exciter with band-pass filter and non-linear processor is used to enhance proximity effects, then the perceived brightness and clarity improve, but the computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using band-pass filters to selectively enhance specific frequency ranges rather than processing the entire spectrum uniformly. The exciter applies non-linear processing and brightness enhancement only to targeted frequency bands where proximity effects are most perceptible, achieving improved clarity and brightness while reducing unnecessary computational energy consumption in other frequency ranges.
3Reliability
If multiple parameters of the exciter are controlled based on distance information, then the spatial audio realism is enhanced, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a distance controller that simultaneously manages multiple exciter parameters (brightness, spectral content, filter characteristics) through a single unified control mechanism. The controller receives distance information and coordinates adjustments across all relevant parameters, achieving comprehensive spatial audio realism while avoiding the complexity of multiple independent control systems through multi-functional integration.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to an apparatus for manipulating an input audio signal associated to a spatial audio source within a spatial audio scenario, wherein the spatial audio source has a certain distance to a listener within the spatial audio scenario. The apparatus comprises an exciter adapted to manipulate the input audio signal to obtain an output audio signal, and a controller adapted to control parameters of the exciter for manipulating the input audio signal based on the certain distance.