Time-Based Audio Control for Context-Aware Noise Cancellation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current audio systems for personal devices lack the ability to dynamically adjust audio processing parameters based on time-based data, such as location and schedule, leading to inefficient noise cancellation and equalization, as they typically operate in an all-or-nothing manner without considering ambient and secondary audio sources separately.

Innovation Solution

A time heuristic audio control system that uses a personal computing device and audio processing system to automatically select and apply pre-defined audio processing parameters based on time-based data, such as calendar events and location, to adjust equalization, noise cancellation, and audio reproduction, allowing for tailored audio experiences by distinguishing between ambient and secondary audio sources.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional audio systems use fixed all-or-nothing noise cancellation settings, then device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but adaptability to different environments deteriorates and audio quality is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different environmentsVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic audio processing by transitioning from fixed all-or-nothing noise cancellation settings to continuously adjustable parameters. The system dynamically modifies noise cancellation intensity and equalization settings based on real-time environmental conditions detected by sensors (microphone, accelerometer, gyroscope) and user activity recognition, allowing optimal audio performance across varying contexts without requiring complex manual configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-adjustment of audio processing parameters by automatically detecting environmental conditions and user context through integrated sensors and machine learning algorithms. The processor autonomously selects appropriate noise cancellation levels and equalization profiles without user intervention, making the system adaptable to different environments while maintaining simple operation for the end user.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If audio systems automatically adjust processing parameters based on time-based data, then adaptability and audio quality are improved, but device complexity and data processing requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic adaptation to user contextVSAvoidprocessing system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent integrates multiple functions into a unified audio processing system that simultaneously performs noise cancellation, equalization, environmental sensing, and context-aware parameter adjustment. The processor leverages existing sensor data (microphone for audio input, accelerometer and gyroscope for motion detection) and time-based information from the computing device to control audio output, creating a multi-functional system that adapts to different user contexts without requiring entirely separate subsystems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system achieves automatic adaptation by dynamically changing audio processing parameters (noise cancellation intensity, equalization curves, volume levels) based on detected environmental conditions and user context. The processor modifies these parameters in real-time according to time-based data and sensor inputs, enabling the system to adapt to different environments and user activities while maintaining a relatively simple underlying architecture through parameter-based control rather than structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10834493B2Time heuristic audio control
Publication Date: 2020.11.10 DOLBY LABORATORIES LICENSING CORP
  • US10834493B2 patent drawing
  • US10834493B2 patent drawing
  • US10834493B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A time heuristic audio control system, comprises a receiver for receiving time-based data from a personal computing device and a memory storing one or more sets processing parameters comprising instructions for processing the ambient sound based upon the time-based data. The system further includes a processor coupled to the memory and the receiver configured to adjust the ambient sound as directed by a selected set of processing parameters retrieved from the memory to create adjusted audio, the selected set of processing parameters retrieved based upon the time-based data and at least one speaker for outputting the adjusted audio.