Vehicle HRTF Capture Using Multi-Camera Head and Ear Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for determining the head-related transfer function (HRTF) are inefficient and uncomfortable, as they require complex measurements using miniature microphones or difficult visual detection of anatomical features via cameras, especially when a person is approaching or boarding a vehicle.
Innovation Solution
A method that detects anatomical features of the head and ears using multiple cameras, both externally and internally, as a person approaches and boards a vehicle, allowing for the calculation of the HRTF based on these features. This method includes the use of near-infrared light for improved detection in various lighting conditions and the option for the person to adjust their head position for better data capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex measurements using miniature microphones in each auditory canal are used to detect HRTF, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical measurement system (miniature microphones in auditory canals) with an optical detection system (cameras capturing external head and ear features). This substitution eliminates the need for intrusive physical devices while achieving HRTF determination through visual anatomical feature analysis, thereby reducing device complexity and improving ease of operation while maintaining sufficient measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual model (copy) of the head and ear anatomy from camera images to determine HRTF characteristics. Instead of directly measuring acoustic properties with microphones, the system captures optical images, processes them to extract anatomical features, and uses these features to calculate HRTF parameters, thereby simplifying the measurement process
2Ease of operation
If visual detection of anatomy via cameras is used to determine HRTF, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to difficulty in detecting all relevant areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection task into multiple segments by using several cameras positioned at different locations (front, side, rear) to capture different regions of the head and ears. Each camera focuses on specific anatomical areas, and the system integrates these segmented views to achieve complete and accurate coverage of all relevant features for HRTF calculation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional camera images to three-dimensional spatial understanding by processing images from multiple cameras at different angles and positions. This multi-dimensional approach enables comprehensive reconstruction of head and ear geometry, overcoming the limitation of single-viewplanar detection and improving measurement precision
3Measurement precision
If a person is prompted to move and turn their head in front of cameras, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time and comfort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs HRTF detection during the person's normal approach to and boarding of the vehicle, capturing images automatically as they naturally move into position. The system prepares and executes the measurement process in advance of the actual vehicle operation, utilizing the person's natural movements rather than requiring dedicated measurement time, thereby eliminating additional time loss while maintaining precision through multiple captured frames
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
Enables efficient and comfortable determination of the HRTF, allowing for the creation of a high-quality 3D audio experience using only two loudspeakers, improving the audio system in vehicles by providing personalized and optimized sound localization.
Implementation Method 1
the use of near-infrared light for improved detection in various lighting conditions
Data Source
AI summary
A head-related transfer function is calculated using features of the person, detected via cameras. The features are detected temporally at least partially in succession by several cameras. At least one of the cameras is arranged so that it detects the person when approaching and opening the vehicle in the area external to the vehicle.