Apparatus for Determining Spatial Positions of Multiple Audio Sources

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention relates to an apparatus and method for precisely determining and tracking the spatial positions of multiple moving audio sources using an array of microphones and advanced signal processing. The system calculates probabilities that represent the likely direction of arrival (DOA) of sound waves from the different sources, enabling it to accurately detect, differentiate, and follow multiple audio sources in dynamic scenarios, even when sources appear, disappear, or move.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Conference systems with multiple participants speaking simultaneously.
• Voice-controlled smart devices or home assistants that can distinguish between several speakers.
• Robotics or drone navigation that relies on audio cues in complex environments.
• Surveillance and security systems for detecting and tracking sounds of interest.
• Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) applications requiring accurate audio source localization.
• Assistive devices for the hearing impaired to enhance sound source separation.
• Teleconferencing systems in offices or public spaces where multiple users participate.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Improved accuracy and robustness in locating and tracking multiple moving sound sources in real time.
• Low computational requirements suitable for use in mobile devices with limited resources.
• Can handle complex scenarios, such as sources appearing/disappearing, merging, or splitting, with high reliability.
• Resistant to noise and acoustic reflections, reducing false detections and maintaining reliable tracking.
• Flexible for a wide range of environments and scales well with increased numbers of audio sources.
• Enhances user experience in applications by providing precise spatial audio information.
• Allows for the design of smarter, more responsive audio and communication systems.

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Patent Abstract

The disclosure relates to an apparatus (100) for determining a spatial position of an audio source (101-1) in multi moving audio sources scenarios, wherein the audio source (101-1) is configured to transmit an audio signal, wherein the audio signal is emittable as a sound wave by the audio source. The apparatus (100) comprises a plurality of audio signal inputs (103-1, 103-2, 103-3, 103-4), wherein each audio signal input (103-1, 103-2, 103-3, 103-4) is configured to receive an audio signal version in the form of a local sound wave of the emitted sound wave. Furthermore the apparatus (100) comprises processing circuitry (105) which is configured to compute and process probabilities of direction of arrival of the sound sources in order to reach a certain audio source position