Spatial Audio Equalization for Clearer Sound Source Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spatial audio technologies struggle to effectively manage and enhance the spatial distribution of sound sources in a sound scene based on user input, particularly in terms of frequency-dependent level adaptation and localization, leading to potential overlap or indistinction of sound sources.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that apply frequency-dependent level adaptation to a selected subset of spatial sound sources in a sound scene, allowing users to adjust volume levels and spatial characteristics, such as diffusion and location, based on user input, to enhance the spatial distribution and clarity of sound sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If equalization is applied to all spatial sound sources, then the overall clarity of the sound scene is improved, but the complexity of processing increases and user control becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the set of spatial sound sources into multiple subsets based on spatial location and frequency characteristics. Each subset can be independently processed with tailored equalization parameters, reducing overall processing complexity while maintaining clarity. The segmentation allows the system to apply equalization selectively rather than uniformly to all sound sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by applying different equalization characteristics to different spatial subsets of sound sources. Each subset receives frequency-dependent level adaptation tailored to its specific spatial location and characteristics, rather than applying a uniform equalization to all sources. This localized approach improves clarity where needed while reducing unnecessary processing elsewhere.
2Measurement precision
If frequency-dependent level adaptation is applied to multiple sound sources, then the spatial distribution and clarity are improved, but the computational resources and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides spatial sound sources into frequency-based subsets, where each subset is processed independently with appropriate level adaptation. This segmentation reduces computational complexity by avoiding redundant processing across all frequency bands for all sources, thereby reducing processing time while maintaining spatial distribution precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies frequency-dependent level adaptation selectively to specific frequency ranges and subsets of sound sources rather than applying full processing to all sources across all frequencies. This partial action approach achieves the necessary spatial clarity while minimizing unnecessary computational expenditure and processing time.
3Ease of operation
If users can control individual sound sources, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments sound sources into spatial subsets that users can control as manageable groups rather than individual sources. This segmentation provides users with practical control capability over different spatial regions while avoiding the overwhelming complexity of controlling every individual sound source separately. The control interface presents simplified subset-based control options.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a control system that can operate at multiple levels: users can control individual sound sources when needed, or control entire spatial subsets for broader adjustments. This multi-functionality provides ease of operation for different user needs while managing complexity through hierarchical control options rather than requiring a separate control mechanism for every possible operation.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2~3B
AI summary
An apparatus comprising means for: applying equalization to a sub-set of a plurality of spatial sound sources, comprised in a sound scene, to modify the sound scene, wherein spatial sound sources are associated with respective locations in the sound scene, wherein equalization comprises frequency-dependent level adaptation, and wherein the sub-set comprises multiple spatial sound sources but does not comprise all of the plurality of spatial sound sources.