Discrete dynamic positioning of audio signals in a 360.degree. environment
US5850455A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 18, 1996 |
| Grant date | Dec 15, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 18, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04S2400/11
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A software algorithm is disclosed which allows audio signals to be positioned discretely and dynamically in a 360.degree. environment, the center of which is assumed to be the position of the user-listener. The algorithm includes: a) proprietary knowledge of the sound sources (such as a synthesizer chip); b) proprietary knowledge of the number of independently addressable couplers (i.e. how many speakers are employed); and c) a software driver incorporated on a host, computer, or a stand-alone device which includes the algorithm for routing the sound sources to the transducers at the proper volume levels. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the algorithm functions by controlling the amplitude attenuation of each source as it is coupled to the transducers, and the relationship of the amplitudes sent to each transducer by means of reference values contained in a matrix table native to the algorithm. By changing the amplitude attenuations in accordance with the table of values, the perceptual location of each source can be changed within the 360.degree. environment, such that the listener is immersed within the audio environment. The method of the invention, and the matrix ope…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.