Tactile Transducer DSP Control for Headphone Sound Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional headphones struggle to accurately localize sound due to the absence of sophisticated sound localization tools present in the human auditory system, making audio spatialization challenging in artificial environments.
Innovation Solution
The use of electromagnetically actuated motion in ear cups with independently addressable vibration modules and tactors to generate directional tactile cues, combined with signal processing to match tactile sensations to the time resolution of the skin, and the implementation of closed-loop control and finite impulse response filtering to enhance audio spatialization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional headphones are used for audio spatialization, then the device structure remains simple, but sound localization accuracy deteriorates due to absence of sophisticated localization tools
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines acoustic drivers with tactile transducers (vibration motors) in a unified headphone system. The tactile transducers are integrated into the ear cup structure to provide directional tactile cues that complement acoustic sound waves, enabling improved sound localization without requiring completely separate devices. This merging of acoustic and tactile systems allows the headphone to leverage both auditory and tactile channels for spatial awareness.
Solution Approach 2:
The headphone system is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: acoustic sound reproduction through conventional drivers and tactile vibration delivery through integrated vibration motors. The system can process and deliver both acoustic and tactile signals through the same ear cup structure, making the device universal for providing rich spatial audio experiences without requiring separate specialized equipment.
2Measurement precision
If additional tactile transducers are added to ear cups, then directional tactile cues improve, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The ear cup is divided into multiple independently controllable zones with separate vibration motors positioned at different locations (front, rear, left, right). Each vibration motor can be controlled independently through separate control circuits, allowing precise directional tactile cues to be generated by activating specific segments. This segmentation enables complex spatial patterns to be created through simple modular units.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the ear cup are equipped with vibration motors having different characteristics optimized for their specific locations. Front vibration motors are tuned for forward-facing directional cues, rear motors for backward cues, and side motors for lateral localization. Each local region's vibration motor is designed with appropriate mass, resonance frequency, and drive characteristics to optimize tactile output for its specific spatial function.
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
Improves sound localization by reducing response time and preferred acoustic volume, providing enhanced directional cues and situational awareness, especially beneficial for hearing-impaired individuals and high-risk environments.
Implementation Method 1
apparatus for generating tactile directional cues to a user via electromagnetically actuated motion
Data Source
AI summary
The apparatus and methods of the present invention provide improved accuracy of response for a tactile transducer included in a body-mounted device such as a headphone, VR/AR headset or similar device. Accuracy is increased through the application of digital signal processing, such as with Infinite Impulse Response filters or Finite Impulse Response filters.