Loudspeaker Virtual Acoustics Equalization for Spectral Distortion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional cross-talk cancellation systems for loudspeakers introduce spectral distortion due to extreme dynamics in phase/magnitude response of filter matrices, affecting the timbre and intelligibility of virtual acoustic reproduction.

Innovation Solution

Adaptive equalization and time-dynamic equalization are employed to reduce spectral distortion by adjusting audio input and output signals, as well as filter information, using correction filters derived from cross-talk correlation matrices to maintain the virtual spatial image while minimizing coloration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If cross-talk cancellation filter matrices are applied to reproduce binaural signals through loudspeakers, then spatial characteristics and virtual acoustic effects are improved, but spectral distortion and timbre quality deteriorate due to extreme dynamics in phase/magnitude response

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespatial characteristicsVSAvoidspectral distortion
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements time-dynamic equalization where the equalizer components are updated in real-time based on the current audio signal characteristics. The system analyzes the input signal in short time frames and adapts the equalization parameters dynamically, allowing the filter characteristics to change over time according to the signal content, thereby reducing spectral distortion while maintaining spatial effects

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent modifies the equalization parameters (filter coefficients, gain values) based on the analyzed signal characteristics such as signal similarity, frequency content, and temporal patterns. By changing these parameters adaptively, the system compensates for the spectral distortion introduced by cross-talk cancellation filters while preserving the virtual acoustic spatial characteristics

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Object-affected harmful factors

If adaptive equalization is applied to reduce spectral distortion, then timbre quality is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional processing requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetimbre qualityVSAvoidprocessing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the audio signal processing into multiple frequency bands using filter banks or FFT analysis. The equalization is applied independently to each frequency band, allowing targeted correction of spectral distortion in specific frequency ranges where it is most problematic, rather than applying complex processing to the entire spectrum

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies equalization selectively based on signal similarity analysis and frequency content. The system determines when and where equalization is needed by analyzing the input signal characteristics, applying processing only to the extent necessary to correct spectral distortion in specific time-frequency regions, thereby reducing overall computational complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS20240405739A1Apparatus and Method for Reducing Spectral Distortion in a System for Reproducing Virtual Acoustics via Loudspeakers
Publication Date: 2024.12.05 FRAUNHOFER GESELLSCHAFT ZUR FORDERUNG DER ANGEWANDTEN FORSCHUNG EV
  • US20240405739A1 patent drawing
  • US20240405739A1 patent drawing
  • US20240405739A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus for reducing spectral distortion in a system for reproducing virtual acoustics via loudspeakers is provided. The apparatus is configured to reduce the spectral distortion by conducting adaptive equalization and/or by conducting time-dynamic equalization.