Virtual Sound Source Localization Using Head Movement Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing virtual sound source localization systems require position detection units and multiple sound image localization coefficients, limiting their ability to adjust sound image localization based on the listener's position and often resulting in a loss of surround sense when the listener changes seats.
Innovation Solution
A virtual sound source localization apparatus that uses two loudspeakers arranged at front-left and front-right positions, with a virtual localization unit, crosstalk cancellation, balance adjustment, and delay units to adjust audio signal levels and timing, allowing for surround sound localization without the need for position detection units or multiple coefficients.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a position detection unit is used to detect the listener's position and multiple correction coefficients are applied, then the surround sense can be maintained at different listening positions, but the device complexity and operational complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the listener's own head movements as the input signal. The head-related transfer function processing automatically adapts to the listener's position based on how their head moves, eliminating the need for external position detection devices. The listener's head serves as both the object being measured and the reference frame for measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the audio parameters (transfer characteristics) based on the detected head movement parameters. By monitoring changes in the head-related transfer function over time, the system automatically adjusts the sound field parameters to maintain optimal surround sense without requiring multiple pre-set correction coefficients.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a wide zone with a correction coefficient is set, then the listener may feel the surround sense across a broader area, but the precision of sound image localization decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static correction coefficients to dynamic, real-time processing. By continuously tracking head movements and updating the transfer characteristics accordingly, the system maintains high localization precision across a wide range of positions. The processing adapts moment-by-moment to the listener's actual head orientation and position.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-calculates and stores head-related transfer functions for various head orientations and positions. When the listener moves their head, the system selects and applies the appropriate pre-computed transfer characteristics, enabling rapid adaptation without real-time computation delays and maintaining both wide adaptability and high precision.
3Reliability
If multiple sound image localization coefficients are used to accommodate different listening positions, then the surround sense can be maintained, but the operational complexity and number of parameters increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a single universal head-related transfer function processing mechanism that handles all listening positions and orientations. Instead of requiring multiple separate correction coefficients for different positions, one unified processing approach adapts to any position through real-time head movement detection, greatly simplifying operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the listener's head movements and uses this feedback to dynamically adjust the sound field parameters. This closed-loop feedback mechanism automatically maintains optimal surround sense without requiring manual intervention or complex parameter management by the user.
Data Source
AI summary
In a virtual sound source localization apparatus, a distance between two loudspeakers and a shortest distance between a line connecting the loudspeakers and a listening position are set beforehand, and a listener operates an operating section to localize a Cch sound source at an approximately center of the loudspeakers, thereby adjusting a sound balance of the loudspeakers. In addition, a controller calculates a difference in distance from the loudspeakers to the listening position, sets a delay amount of delay correctors such that sound emitted from the loudspeakers substantially reaches the listening position simultaneously, and adjusts sound output timing of the loudspeakers. In this way, even though the listening position is changed, the listener can operate the operating section to optimize a virtual surround effect.