Virtual Sound Source Configuration for Isotropic Audio Reproduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing audio signal reproduction techniques, such as those described in Japanese Patent No. 5,655,378, face challenges in appropriately controlling sound broadening due to non-isotropic speaker arrangements, leading to unintended changes in sound localization perceived by listeners, especially in configurations like 5.1 channel surround systems.
Innovation Solution
A signal processing apparatus that acquires information about the speaker arrangement and sets virtual sound sources to generate a reproducing signal, using methods like multiple-direction amplitude panning and weight optimization all-direction amplitude panning to adjust panning gains and distribute sound sources isotropically, ensuring the desired sound broadening is achieved regardless of speaker arrangement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If virtual sound sources are set within the target range using conventional panning techniques, then sound localization can be achieved, but the sound broadening becomes inconsistent due to non-isotropic speaker arrangements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameters of virtual sound sources based on speaker arrangement information. Specifically, it adjusts the positions, numbers, and types of virtual sound sources according to the specific speaker configuration (e.g., 5.1 channel surround) to compensate for non-isotropic arrangements and achieve consistent sound broadening across different directions
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts the virtual sound source configuration to match the reproduction environment. By acquiring speaker arrangement information and adjusting virtual sound source parameters accordingly, the system maintains reliable sound broadening effects regardless of the specific speaker configuration being used
2Adaptability or versatility
If speakers are arranged in a non-isotropic configuration (e.g., 5.1 channel surround with fewer rear speakers), then the speaker arrangement adapts to practical reproduction needs, but the sound broadening perceived by listeners becomes direction-dependent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different virtual sound source configurations to different spatial regions based on speaker arrangement. By analyzing the specific speaker configuration and setting virtual sound sources with appropriate positions and numbers for each region, it compensates for the non-uniform speaker distribution and achieves uniform sound broadening perception across all directions
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes parameters of virtual sound sources (position, number, type) according to the acquired speaker arrangement information. This adaptation allows the system to maintain consistent sound broadening effects despite the inherent non-isotropic nature of practical speaker configurations like 5.1 surround sound
Data Source
AI summary
A signal processing apparatus that generates a reproducing signal from an input audio signal includes an information acquisition unit that acquires information about an arrangement of a plurality of speakers used for reproduction of a sound that is based on the reproducing signal, a specifying unit that specifies a target range for localization of a sound corresponding to the input audio signal, a setting unit that sets a plurality of virtual sound sources used for localization of a sound based on the specified target range based on the acquired information about the arrangement of the plurality of speakers, and a generation unit that generates the reproducing signal by processing the input audio signal based on setting of the plurality of virtual sound sources.