Virtual Sound Source Guidance for Low-Disturbance User Location Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for managing user location in local area networks, such as offices and entertainment venues, are either user-device interactive or indiscriminate, lacking contextual awareness and privacy, and often disturb non-targeted individuals.
Innovation Solution
A system that generates a virtual sound source using multiple speakers to guide users to remote locations within a local area network, based on user presence detection, activity tracking, and density management, without requiring user interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a speaker system broadcasts an announcement to guide users to remote locations, then users can be directed to desired locations, but the announcement interrupts other individuals who are not the target of the notification
Solution Approach 1:
The broadcast audio signal is segmented into multiple channels corresponding to different spatial locations. Each channel transmits audio information targeted at specific user groups or individuals at particular locations, allowing selective guidance without disturbing others in different areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The system adds spatial dimensionality to audio transmission by creating virtual sound sources at different locations in three-dimensional space. This allows the same physical speaker system to present directional audio information to users at different positions without cross-contamination of audio channels.
2Ease of operation
If notifications are provided through user devices or signage, then users receive location guidance, but users must interact with or have sight of the device/signage
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects user presence and location through sensors and network infrastructure, then autonomously delivers targeted audio notifications without requiring user interaction. The system serves itself by using ambient sensors, network data, and automated audio processing to guide users without manual input.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces visual display mechanisms (signage, screens) with acoustic field-based communication. Audio signals are transmitted through the air medium to reach users' ears directly, eliminating the need for users to physically interact with or visually perceive display devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing location management methods are used, then users can be guided to locations, but the methods lack contextual awareness and privacy
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates locally tailored audio notifications based on individual user characteristics, preferences, and real-time location data. Each user receives customized audio information appropriate to their specific context rather than generic broadcasts, enhancing adaptability while maintaining privacy through individualization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system collects and processes only the minimum necessary information required for location management (presence detection, approximate location, activity state) rather than comprehensive user data. This partial action approach enables contextual awareness for effective guidance while preserving user privacy by avoiding excessive data collection.
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
Provides contextual and private notifications to users, guiding them to desired locations while minimizing disturbance to others, enhancing user management and crowd control in networked environments.
Implementation Method 1
The output of one or more speakers is modified to generate a virtual sound source at a remote location within the local area network away from the location of the first user
Data Source
AI summary
System and methods are provided relating to managing user location using a virtual sound source. The presence of a first user within a local area network is detected. A visit session in response to detecting the presence of the first user is initiated. A location of the first user within the local area network during the visit session is determined. An output of one or more speakers to generate a virtual sound source at a remote location within the local area network away from the location of the first user is modified.