Google llc (20240205603). SPEAKER ARRAY ADDRESSED BY ROW AND COLUMN SELECTION simplified abstract

SPEAKER ARRAY ADDRESSED BY ROW AND COLUMN SELECTION

Organization Name

google llc

Inventor(s)

Jyrki Antero Alakuijala of Wollerau (CH)

Matthew Sharifi of Kilchberg (CH)

Martin Bruse of Tyreso (SE)

Zoltan Szabadka of Gyorujbarat (HU)

Thomas Fischbacher of Gattikon (CH)

Sami Boukortt of Zurich (CH)

Moritz Firsching of Basel (CH)

Evgenii Kliuchnikov of Thalwil (CH)

SPEAKER ARRAY ADDRESSED BY ROW AND COLUMN SELECTION - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 20240205603 titled 'SPEAKER ARRAY ADDRESSED BY ROW AND COLUMN SELECTION

Simplified Explanation: Spatial audio can be generated by a speaker array that is switched according to rows and/or columns to reduce cost and complexity. The speaker array includes a row of speakers, each coupled to a different column channel. The rows of speakers receive portions of the spatial audio on a row-by-row basis as each row is activated to couple the speakers in a row to their respective column. This switched approach reduces the number of required audio sources.

Key Features and Innovation:

• Speaker array switched by rows and/or columns to reduce cost and complexity.
• Each speaker in a row coupled to a different column channel.
• Portions of spatial audio received on a row-by-row basis.
• Number of required audio sources reduced.
• PWM signals generated for each column using an approach similar to class-D amplification or sigma-delta modulation.
• Analog signals recovered from PWM signals using low-pass filters.

Potential Applications: This technology can be used in:

• Home entertainment systems
• Virtual reality and augmented reality applications
• Theatres and concert venues
• Gaming consoles
• Automotive audio systems

Problems Solved:

• Cost and complexity of speaker arrays reduced
• Efficient distribution of spatial audio
• Improved audio quality and immersion
• Simplified audio signal processing

Benefits:

• Enhanced spatial audio experience
• Cost-effective speaker array design
• Simplified audio system setup
• Improved audio performance in various applications

Commercial Applications: Potential commercial uses include:

• Audio equipment manufacturing
• Entertainment industry
• Gaming technology companies
• Automotive audio system manufacturers

Questions about Spatial Audio Technology: 1. How does the switched speaker array approach improve the distribution of spatial audio? 2. What are the key advantages of using PWM signals for generating audio in this technology?

Frequently Updated Research: Stay updated on advancements in speaker array technology, audio signal processing, and spatial audio applications to explore new possibilities and improvements in the field.

Original Abstract Submitted

spatial audio may be generated by a speaker array that is switched according to rows and/or columns to reduce its cost and complexity. the speaker array may include a row of speakers that are each coupled to a different column channel. the rows of speakers can receive portions of the spatial audio on a row-by-row basis as each row is activated to couple the speakers in a row to their respective column. this switched approach reduces a number of required audio sources. the audio sources may generate pwm signals for each column using an approach that is similar to that found in class-d amplification or sigma-delta modulation. analog signals may be recovered from the pwm signals using a low-pass filter positioned before each speaker in the array.