Uniform Speaker Array Beam Steering via Signal Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional beam steering audio array systems are complex and user-unfriendly, often requiring different sized drivers for various frequency ranges, which increases cost and complexity while reducing reliability.
Innovation Solution
The use of multiple drivers of the same size and type, with dedicated signal processing and amplifier channels, applying array parameters such as delay, gain, and finite impulse response filters to achieve beam steering and spreading, allowing for a full range sound field with fewer components and lower costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If different sized drivers are used to handle different frequency ranges, then frequency coverage is improved, but device complexity and cost increase while reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using identical drivers that can handle the full frequency range, eliminating the need for specialized drivers for different frequency bands. Each driver in the array is capable of reproducing the complete audio spectrum, and through signal processing and array geometry, the system achieves frequency coverage without requiring different driver types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by modifying the electrical signals (gain, delay, phase) sent to each driver rather than changing the physical drivers themselves. By adjusting these parameters, the system optimizes frequency response and coverage using identical drivers, avoiding the complexity of multiple driver types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different sized drivers are used to handle different frequency ranges, then frequency coverage is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using identical drivers that can handle the full frequency range, eliminating the need for specialized drivers for different frequency bands. Each driver in the array is capable of reproducing the complete audio spectrum, and through signal processing and array geometry, the system achieves frequency coverage without requiring different driver types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by modifying the electrical signals (gain, delay, phase) sent to each driver rather than changing the physical drivers themselves. By adjusting these parameters, the system optimizes frequency response and coverage using identical drivers, avoiding the complexity of multiple driver types.
3Adaptability or versatility
If different sized drivers are used to handle different frequency ranges, then frequency coverage is improved, but reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using identical drivers that can handle the full frequency range, eliminating the need for specialized drivers for different frequency bands. Each driver in the array is capable of reproducing the complete audio spectrum, and through signal processing and array geometry, the system achieves frequency coverage without requiring different driver types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by modifying the electrical signals (gain, delay, phase) sent to each driver rather than changing the physical drivers themselves. By adjusting these parameters, the system optimizes frequency response and coverage using identical drivers, avoiding the complexity of multiple driver types.
4Adaptability or versatility
If complex beam steering methods are used, then acoustic characteristics control is improved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by implementing automatic beam steering and acoustic optimization through embedded signal processing. The system automatically adjusts delay, gain, and phase parameters based on receiver positions and acoustic environment, eliminating the need for manual configuration while maintaining precise control over acoustic characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by automatically modifying electrical signals (gain, delay, phase) sent to each driver based on real-time or pre-programmed parameters. This automated parameter adjustment enables sophisticated beam steering and acoustic control without requiring user intervention or complex manual setup.
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
This approach results in a more reliable, cost-effective, and accurate sound field with enhanced beam control and spreading capabilities, reducing the need for larger drivers and associated hardware, while allowing for user-friendly adjustment of sound field characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
multiple drivers of the same size and type and having dedicated signal processing and amplifier channels for each of the drivers, which, through the combined effect of the drivers, produces a sound field
Data Source
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AI summary
An array is provided that includes a plurality of drivers, each of the same size and type, to transduce processed audio signals into acoustic waves, an input to receive an audio signal and a control signal, and at least one signal processor to provide the processed audio signals in accord with the received audio signal and the control signal. The signal processor receives the audio signal and the control signal, and provides a first processed signal to a first driver based in part upon the audio signal and a first parameter received from the control signal, and provides a second processed signal to a second driver based in part upon the audio signal and a second parameter received from the control signal.