U.S. patent application number 14/514267 was filed with the patent office on 2015-07-09 for methods and devices for creating and modifying sound profiles for audio reproduction devices.
The applicant listed for this patent is Alpine Electronics of Silicon Valley, Inc.. Invention is credited to Koichiro Kanda, Rocky Chau-Hsiung Lin, Hiroyuki Toki, Thomas Yamasaki.
Application Number | 20150195663 14/514267 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50982150 |
Filed Date | 2015-07-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150195663 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lin; Rocky Chau-Hsiung ; et
al. |
July 9, 2015 |
METHODS AND DEVICES FOR CREATING AND MODIFYING SOUND PROFILES FOR
AUDIO REPRODUCTION DEVICES
Abstract
Method and devices for processing signals based on sound and
haptic profiles are provided. A reproduction device can request a
sound profile or haptic profile based on user information, device
information, media metadata or a combination. The sound or haptic
profiles can be customized and shared across multiple devices. User
interfaces allow for the input of information that allows the
reproduction device or a server in the cloud to select, modify,
store, and analyze sound profiles. Deeper analysis allows for the
improvement of sound and haptic profiles for individuals and
groups. Intensity scoring of a music library can also be
conducted.
Inventors: |
Lin; Rocky Chau-Hsiung;
(Cupertino, CA) ; Yamasaki; Thomas; (Anaheim
Hills, CA) ; Toki; Hiroyuki; (San Jose, CA) ;
Kanda; Koichiro; (San Jose, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Alpine Electronics of Silicon Valley, Inc. |
Santa Clara |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
50982150 |
Appl. No.: |
14/514267 |
Filed: |
October 14, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
14269015 |
May 2, 2014 |
8892233 |
|
|
14514267 |
|
|
|
|
14181512 |
Feb 14, 2014 |
8767996 |
|
|
14269015 |
|
|
|
|
61924148 |
Jan 6, 2014 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
381/58 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04R 1/1041 20130101;
H04R 1/1091 20130101; H04R 2420/07 20130101; H04R 2460/13 20130101;
G06F 16/635 20190101; H04R 29/00 20130101; G06F 16/638 20190101;
H04R 3/12 20130101; G06F 3/165 20130101; H04R 1/1008 20130101; G06F
16/68 20190101 |
International
Class: |
H04R 29/00 20060101
H04R029/00 |
Claims
1. A method of utilizing sound profiles to enhance audio
reproduction, comprising the steps of: receiving a submitted sound
profile from a submitting user, the submitted sound profile
comprising a submitting identifier, submitting device information,
and the submitting user's preselected reproduction parameters for
modifying the reproduction of audio data; storing the submitted
sound profile in a database with other sound profiles according to
the submitting identifier, the submitting device information, and
the submitting user's preselected reproduction parameters for
modifying the reproduction of audio data; receiving a request for a
sound profile from a requesting user, the request comprising
request information; wherein the request information comprises a
requesting identifier and requesting device information; wherein
the requesting user is different than the submitting user;
searching the database for a sound profile based on the request
information; selecting the submitted sound profile according to the
request information; serving the selected sound profile to a
transmitter; and transmitting the modified selected sound profile
to the requesting user.
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: comparing the
selected sound profile to any other sound profiles in the database
previously submitted by the requesting user; modifying the selected
sound profile's preselected reproduction parameters for modifying
the reproduction of audio data to more closely match a reproduction
parameter in the any other sound profiles previously submitted by
the requesting user contained in the database; and wherein the
serving the selected sound profile comprises serving the modified
selected sound profile.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein selecting the submitted sound
profile further comprises matching reproduction parameters of the
requesting user to reproduction parameters of the submitting user
for a genre or song that is different than the requesting device
information or the submitting device information.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the submitting identifier
comprises the submitted genre of audio to which the submitted sound
profile applies, the requesting identifier comprises a requested
genre that is the same as in the submitted genre, and the selecting
of the submitted sound profile is due to the requesting genre
matching the submitted genre.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the submitting identifier
comprises submitted song identification information to which the
submitted sound profile applies, the requesting identifier
comprises a requested song identification information that is the
same as in the submitted song identification information, and the
selecting of the submitted sound profile is based on the requesting
song identifier matching the submitted song identifier.
6. The method of claim 5, wherein the submitting identifier
comprises submitted geographic identification information to which
the submitted sound profile applies, the requesting identifier
comprises a requested geographic information that is the same as in
the submitted geographic information, and the selecting of the
submitted sound profile is based on requesting the geographic
information matching the submitted geographic information.
7. The method of claim 5, wherein the submitting identifier
comprises submitted demographic identification information to which
the submitted sound profile applies, the requesting identifier
comprises a requested demographic information that is the same as
in the submitted demographic information, and the selecting of the
submitted sound profile is based on requesting the demographic
information matching the submitted demographic information.
8. The method of claim 7, wherein the submitted demographic
information further comprises information about the submitting
user's generational cohort, and the demographic information about
the requesting user comprises information about the requesting
user's generational cohort.
9. A method of enhancing audio reproduction for a population of
users through the use of sound profiles, comprising the steps of:
maintaining a database of users in a computer system; wherein the
database comprises user identifications and user reproduction
parameter associated with the user identifications; maintaining a
preselected collection of default sound profiles; wherein each
default sound profile in the collection of default sound profiles
contains audio identifying information and preselected reproduction
parameters for modifying the reproduction of audio data; receiving
a new user reproduction request from a new requesting user, the new
user reproduction request comprising new user audio identifying
information and new user device information, wherein the new user
device information comprises a new user identification; using the
new user requesting audio identifying information to search the
preselected collection of default sound profiles; selecting a
default sound profile form the preselected collection of default
sound profiles whose audio identifying information most closely
match the new user audio identifying information; modifying the
selected default sound profile's preselected reproduction
parameters for modifying the reproduction of audio data based on
the new user device information; transmitting the modified selected
default sound profile to the new requesting user; and storing the
new user identification, new user audio identifying information,
and the modified selected default sound profile to the database of
users.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein the audio identifying
information comprises the identity of a specific song.
11. The method of claim 9, wherein the audio information comprises
a sample of the audio to be reproduced.
12. The method of claim 9, wherein the audio information comprises
an intensity score.
13. The method of claim 9, further comprising the steps of:
maintaining a library of audio files, wherein the library comprises
the audio files and audio identifying information associated with
the audio files; using the new user requesting audio identifying
information to search the library of audio files and select an
audio file whose associated audio identifying information
corresponds to the new user requesting audio identifying
information; serving the audio file corresponding to the new user
requesting audio identifying information to the transmitter with
the modified selected sound profile; and transmitting the audio
file corresponding to the new user requesting audio identifying
information to the transmitter.
14. The method of claim 13, further comprising transmitting
additional audio files that correspond to the audio identifying
information.
15. The method of claim 13, wherein the transmitting of the audio
file corresponding to the audio identifying information to the
requesting user occurs in a streaming fashion.
16. A method of utilizing haptic profiles to enhance reproduction,
comprising the steps of: receiving a submitted haptic profile from
a submitting user, the submitted haptic profile comprising a
submitting identifier, submitting device information, and the
submitting user's preselected haptic reproduction parameter for
modifying a haptic reproduction; storing the submitted haptic
profile in a database with other haptic profiles according to the
submitting identifier, the submitting device information, and the
submitting user's preselected haptic reproduction parameter for
modifying the haptic reproduction; receiving a request for a haptic
profile from a requesting user, the request comprising request
information; wherein the request information comprises a requesting
identifier and requesting device information; wherein the
requesting user is different than the submitting user; searching
the database for a haptic profile based on the request information;
selecting the submitted haptic profile according to the request
information; comparing the selected haptic profile to any other
haptic profiles in the database previously submitted by the
requesting user; modifying the selected haptic profile's
preselected haptic reproduction parameters for modifying the haptic
reproduction to more closely match a haptic reproduction parameter
in the any other haptic profiles previously submitted by the
requesting user contained in the database; serving the selected
haptic profile to a transmitter; and transmitting the modified
selected haptic profile to the requesting user.
17. The method of claim 1, further comprising: comparing the
selected haptic profile to any other haptic profiles in the
database previously submitted by the requesting user; modifying the
selected haptic profile's preselected haptic reproduction
parameters for modifying the haptic reproduction to more closely
match a haptic reproduction parameter in the any other haptic
profiles previously submitted by the requesting user contained in
the database; and wherein the serving the selected haptic profile
comprises serving the modified selected haptic profile.
18. The method of claim 16, wherein the any other haptic profiles
in the database is a null set.
19. The method of claim 16, wherein the submitting user's
preselected haptic reproduction parameter for modifying a haptic
reproduction is a gain parameter.
20. The method of claim 16, wherein the submitting identifier
comprises submitted demographic identification information to which
the submitted haptic profile applies, the requesting identifier
comprises a requested demographic information that is the same as
in the submitted demographic information, and the selecting of the
submitted haptic profile is due to requesting the demographic
information matching the submitted demographic information.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 14/269,015, filed on May 2, 2014, entitled "Methods and Devices
for Creating and Modifying Sound Profiles for Audio Reproduction
Devices," which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.
14/181,512, filed on Feb. 14, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,767,996,
entitled "Methods and Devices for Reproducing Audio Signals with a
Haptic Apparatus on Acoustic Headphones," which claims priority to
U.S. Provisional Application 61/924,148, filed on Jan. 6, 2014,
entitled "Methods and Devices for Reproducing Audio Signals with a
Haptic Apparatus on Acoustic Headphones," all three of which are
incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention is directed to improving the auditory
experience by modifying sound profiles based on individualized user
settings, or matched to a specific song, artist, genre, geography,
demography, or consumption modality.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Consumers of media containing audio--whether it be music,
movies, videogames, or other media--seek an immersive audio
experience. To achieve and optimize that experience, the sound
profiles associated with the audio signals may need to be modified
to account for a range of preferences and situations. For example,
different genres of music, movies, and games typically have their
own idiosyncratic sound that may be enhanced through techniques
emphasizing or deemphasizing portions of the audio data. Listeners
living in different geographies or belonging to different
demographic classes may have preferences regarding the way audio is
reproduced. The surroundings in which audio reproduction is
accomplished--ranging from headphones worn on the ears, to inside
cars or other vehicles, to interior and exterior spaces--may
necessitate modifications in sound profiles. And, individual
consumers may have their own, personal preferences.
SUMMARY
[0004] The present inventors recognized the need to modify, store,
and share the sound profile of audio data to match a reproduction
device, user, song, artist, genre, geography, demography or
consumption location.
[0005] Various implementations of the subject matter described
herein may provide one or more of the following advantages. In one
or more implementations, the techniques and apparatus described
herein can enhance the auditory experience. By allowing such
modifications to be stored and shared across devices, various
implementations of the subject matter herein allow those
enhancements to be applied in a variety of reproduction scenarios
and consumption locations, and/or shared between multiple
consumers. Collection and storage of such preferences and usage
scenarios can allow for further analysis in order to provide
further auditory experience enhancements.
[0006] In general, in one aspect, the techniques can be implemented
to include receiving a submitted sound profile from a submitting
user, the submitted sound profile comprising a submitting
identifier and submitting device information; storing the submitted
sound profile in a database with other sound profiles according to
the submitting identifier and submitting device information;
receiving a request for a sound profile from a requesting user, the
request comprising request information; searching the database for
a sound profile based on the request information; selecting the
submitted sound profile according to the request information;
serving the selected sound profile to a transmitter; and
transmitting the selected sound profile to the requesting user.
Further, the techniques can be implemented such that the submitting
identifier comprises the genre of audio to which the submitted
sound profile applies, and the request information comprises a
requested genre that is the same. Further, the techniques can be
implemented such that the request information comprises requesting
device information. Further, the techniques can be implemented such
that the submitted device information comprises information
regarding the consumption modality wherein the audio will be
reproduced. Further, the techniques can be implemented such that
the submitting user and the requesting user are identical users.
Further, the techniques can be implemented such that the submitting
identifier comprises demographic information about the submitting
user, and the request information comprises demographic
information. Further, the techniques can be implemented such that
the submitting identifier comprises geographic information about
the submitting user, and the request information comprises
geographic information. Further, the techniques can be implemented
to include comparing the selected sound profile to any sound
profiles previously submitted by the requesting user; and modifying
the selected sound profile to more closely match the sound profiles
previously submitted by the requesting user.
[0007] In general, in another aspect, the techniques can be
implemented to include receiving a request for a sound profile, the
request comprising device information and audio information;
extrapolating preferred reproduction parameters from the device
information and audio information; searching a collection of sound
profiles stored in memory; selecting a sound profile corresponding
to the preferred reproduction parameters; serving the selected
sound profile to a transmitter; and transmitting the selected sound
profile to the requestor. Further, the techniques can be
implemented such that the audio information comprises genre
metadata. Further, the techniques can be implemented such that the
audio information comprises a sample of the audio to be reproduced.
Further, the techniques can be implemented such that the device
information comprises information regarding the consumption
modality wherein the audio will be reproduced. Further, the
techniques can be implemented such that the sound profile includes
a haptic parameters. Further, the techniques can be implemented
such that the audio information comprises an intensity score.
[0008] In general, in another aspect, the techniques can be
implemented to include maintaining a database of users, wherein the
database comprises user identifications and user reproduction
parameter preferences associated with the user identifications;
maintaining a collection of sound profiles, wherein each sound
profile contains reproduction parameters; receiving a reproduction
request from a requesting user, the reproduction request comprising
audio identifying information and device information, wherein the
device information comprises a user identification; using the
requesting user identification to search the database of users for
the requesting user; using the user reproduction parameter
preferences associated with the requesting user and the audio
identifying information to determine preferred reproduction
parameters; searching the collection of sound profiles stored in
memory; selecting the sound profile whose reproduction parameters
most closely match the reproduction parameter preferences; and
transmitting the selected sound profile to the requesting user.
Further, the techniques can be implemented such that the device
information further comprises information regarding the consumption
modality wherein the audio will be reproduced. Further, the
techniques can be implemented such that the audio identifying
information comprises the identity of a specific audio file.
Further, the techniques can be implemented to include maintaining a
library of audio files, wherein the library comprises the audio
files and metadata associated with the audio files; using the audio
identifying information to search the library of audio files and
select an audio file corresponding to the audio identifying
information; serving the audio file corresponding to the audio
identifying information to the transmitter with the selected sound
profile; and transmitting the audio file corresponding to the audio
identifying information to the transmitter. Further, the techniques
can be implemented to include transmitting additional audio files
that correspond to the audio identifying information. Further, the
techniques can be implemented such that the transmitting of the
audio file corresponding to the audio identifying information to
the requesting user occurs in a streaming fashion.
[0009] These general and specific techniques can be implemented
using an apparatus, a method, a system, or any combination of
apparatuses, methods, and systems. The details of one or more
implementations are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the
description below. Further features, aspects, and advantages will
become apparent from the description, the drawings, and the
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1A-C show audio consumers in a range of consumption
modalities, including using headphones fed information from a
mobile device (1A), in a car or other form of transportation (1B),
and in an interior space (1C).
[0011] FIG. 2 shows headphones including a haptic device.
[0012] FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of an audio reproduction
system.
[0013] FIG. 4 shows a block diagram of a device capable of playing
audio files.
[0014] FIG. 5 shows steps for processing information for
reproduction in a reproduction device.
[0015] FIG. 6 shows steps for obtaining and applying sound
profiles.
[0016] FIG. 7 shows an exemplary user interface by which the user
can input geographic, consumption modality, and demographic
information for use in sound profiles.
[0017] FIG. 8 shows an exemplary user interface by which the user
can determine which aspects of tuning should be utilized in
applying a sound profile.
[0018] FIGS. 9A-B show subscreens of an exemplary user interface by
which the user has made detailed changes to the dynamic
equalization settings of sound profiles for songs in two different
genres.
[0019] FIG. 10 shows an exemplary user interface by which the user
can share the sound profile settings the user or the user's
contacts have chosen.
[0020] FIG. 11 shows steps undertaken by a computer with a sound
profile database receiving a sound profile request.
[0021] FIG. 12 shows steps undertaken by a computer with a sound
profile database receiving a user-modified sound profile.
[0022] FIG. 13 shows a block diagram of a computer system capable
of maintaining sound profile database and providing sound profiles
to users.
[0023] FIG. 14 shows how a computer system can provide sound
profiles to multiple users.
[0024] FIG. 15 shows steps undertaken by a computer to analyze a
user's music collection to allow for intensity-based content
selection.
[0025] FIGS. 16A-B show an exemplary user interface by which the
user can perform intensity-based content selection.
[0026] Like reference symbols indicate like elements throughout the
specification and drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0027] In FIG. 1A, the user 105 is using headphones 120 in a
consumption modality 100. Headphones 120 can be of the on-the-ear
or over-the-ear type. Headphones 120 can be connected to mobile
device 110. Mobile device 110 can be a smartphone, portable music
player, portable video game or any other type of mobile device
capable of generating entertainment by reproducing audio files. In
some implementations, mobile device 110 can be connected to
headphone 120 using audio cable 130, which allows mobile device 110
to transmit an audio signal to headphones 120. Such cable 130 can
be a traditional audio cable that connects to mobile device 110
using a standard headphone jack. The audio signal transmitted over
cable 130 can be of sufficient power to drive, i.e., create sound,
at headphones 120. In other implementations, mobile device 110 can
alternatively connect to headphones 120 using wireless connection
160. Wireless connection 160 can be a Bluetooth, Low Power
Bluetooth, or other networking connection. Wireless connection 160
can transmit audio information in a compressed or uncompressed
format. The headphones would then provide their own power source to
amplify the audio data and drive the headphones. Mobile device 110
can connect to Internet 140 over networking connection 150 to
obtain the sound profile. Networking connection 150 can be wired or
wireless.
[0028] Headphones 120 can include stereo speakers including
separate drivers for the left and right ear to provide distinct
audio to each ear. Headphones 120 can include a haptic device 170
to create a bass sensation by providing vibrations through the top
of the headphone band. Headphone 120 can also provide vibrations
through the left and right ear cups using the same or other haptic
devices. Headphone 120 can include additional circuitry to process
audio and drive the haptic device.
[0029] Mobile device 110 can play compressed audio files, such as
those encoded in MP3 or AAC format. Mobile device 110 can decode,
obtain, and/or recognize metadata for the audio it is playing back,
such as through ID3 tags or other metadata. The audio metadata can
include the name of the artists performing the music, the genre,
and/or the song title. Mobile device 110 can use the metadata to
match a particular song, artist, or genre to a predefined sound
profile. The predefined sound profile can be provided by Alpine and
downloaded with an application or retrieved from the cloud over
networking connection 150. If the audio does not have metadata
(e.g., streaming situations), a sample of the audio can be sent and
used to determine the genre and other metadata.
[0030] Such a sound profile can include which frequencies or audio
components to enhance or suppress, e.g., through equalization,
signal processing, and/or dynamic noise reduction, allowing the
alteration of the reproduction in a way that enhances the auditory
experience. The sound profiles can be different for the left and
right channel. For example, if a user requires a louder sound in
one ear, the sound profile can amplify that channel more. Other
known techniques can also be used to create three-dimensional audio
effects. In another example, the immersion experience can be
tailored to specific music genres. For example, with its typically
narrower range of frequencies, the easy listening genre may benefit
from dynamic noise compression, while bass-heavy genres (i.e.,
hip-hop, dance music, and rap) can have enhanced bass and haptic
output. Although the immersive initial settings are a unique
blending of haptic, audio, and headphone clamping forces, the end
user can tune each of these aspects (e.g., haptic, equalization,
signal processing, dynamic noise reduction, 3D effects) to suit his
or her tastes. Genre-based sound profiles can include rock, pop,
classical, hip-hop/rap, and dance music. In another implementation,
the sound profile could modify the settings for Alpine's MX
algorithm, a proprietary sound enhancement algorithm, or other
sound enhancement algorithms known in the art.
[0031] Mobile device 110 can obtain the sound profiles in real
time, such as when mobile device 110 is streaming music, or can
download sound profiles in advance for any music or audio stored on
mobile device 110. As described in more detail below, mobile device
110 can allow users to tune the sound profile of their headphone to
their own preferences and/or apply predefined sound profiles suited
to the genre, artist, song, or the user. For example, mobile device
110 can use Alpine's Tune-It mobile application. Tune-It can allow
users quickly modify their headphone devices to suite their
individual tastes. Additionally, Tune-It can communicate settings
and parameters (metadata) to a server on the Internet, and allow
the server to associate sound settings with music genres.
[0032] Audio cable 130 or wireless connection 160 can also transmit
non-audio information to or from headphones 120. The non-audio
information transmitted to headphones 120 can include sound
profiles. The non-audio information transmitted from headphones 120
may include device information, e.g., information about the
headphones themselves, geographic or demographic information about
user 105. Such device information can be used by mobile device 110
in its selection of a sound profile, or combined with additional
device information regarding mobile device 110 for transmission
over the Internet 140 to assist in the selection of a sound profile
in the cloud.
[0033] Given their proximity to the ears, when headphones 120 are
used to experience auditory entertainment, there is often less
interference stemming from the consumption modality itself beyond
ambient noise. Other consumption modalities present challenges to
the auditory experience, however. For example, FIG. 1B depicts the
user in a different modality, namely inside an automobile or
analogous mode of transportation such as car 101. Car 101 can have
a head unit 111 that plays audio from AM broadcasts, FM broadcasts,
CDs, DVDs, flash memory (e.g., USB thumb drives), a connected iPod
or iPhone, mobile device 110, or other devices capable of storing
or providing audio. Car 101 can have front left speakers 182, front
right speakers 184, rear left speakers 186, and rear right speakers
188. Head unit 111 can separately control the content and volume of
audio sent to speakers 182, 184, 186, and 188. Car 101 can also
include haptic devices for each seat, including front left haptic
device 183, front right haptic device 185, rear left haptic device
187, and rear right haptic device 189. Head unit 111 can separately
control the content and volume reproduced by haptic devices 183,
185, 187, and 189.
[0034] Head unit 111 can create a single low frequency mono channel
that drives haptic devices 183, 185, 187, and 189, or head unit 111
can separately drive each haptic device based off the audio sent to
the adjacent speaker. For example, haptic device 183 can be driven
based on the low-frequency audio sent to speaker 182. Similarly,
haptic devices 185, 187, and 189 can be driven based on the
low-frequency audio sent to speakers 184, 186, and 188,
respectively. Each haptic device can be optimized for low, mid, and
high frequencies.
[0035] Head unit 111 can utilize sound profiles to optimize the
blend of audio and haptic sensation. Head unit 111 can use sound
profiles as they are described in reference to mobile device 110
and headset 200.
[0036] While some modes of transportation are configured to allow a
mobile device 110 to provide auditory entertainment directly, some
have a head unit 111 that can independently send information to
Internet 140 and receive sound profiles, and still others have a
head unit that can communicate with a mobile device 110, for
example by Bluetooth connection 112. Whatever the specific
arrangement, a networking connection 150 can be made to the
Internet 140, over which audio data, associated metadata, and
device information can be transmitted as well as sound profiles can
be obtained.
[0037] In such a transportation modality, there may be significant
ambient noise that must be overcome. Given the history of car
stereos, many users in the transportation modality have come to
expect a bass-heavy sound for audio played in a transportation
modality. Reflection and absorbance of sound waves by different
materials in the passenger cabin may impact the sounds perceived by
passengers, necessitating equalization and compensations. Speakers
located in different places within the passenger cabin, such as a
front speaker 182 and a rear speaker 188 may generate sound waves
that reach passengers at different times, necessitating the
introduction of a time delay so each passenger receives the correct
compilation of sound waves at the correct moment. All of these
modifications to the audio reproduction--as well as others based on
the user's unique preferences or suited to the genre, artist, song,
the user, or the reproduction device--can be applied either by
having the user tune the sound profile or by applying predefined
sound profiles.
[0038] Another environment in which audio entertainment is
routinely experienced is modality 102, an indoor modality such as
the one depicted in FIG. 1C as a room inside a house. In such an
indoor modality, the audio entertainment may come from a number of
devices, such as mobile device 110, television 113, media player
114, stereo 115, videogame system 116, or some combination thereof
wherein at least one of the devices is connected to Internet 140
through networking connection 150. In modality 102, user 105 may
choose to experience auditory entertainment through wired or
wireless headphones 120, or via speakers mounted throughout the
interior of the space. The speakers could be stereo speakers or
surround sound speakers. As in modality 101, in modality 102
reflection and absorbance of sound waves and speaker placement may
necessitate modification of the audio data to enhance the auditory
experience. Other effects may also be desirable and enhance the
audio experience in such an environment. For example, if a user is
utilizing headphones in close proximity to someone who is not,
dynamic noise compression may help the user from disturbing the
nonuser. Such modifications--as well as others based on the user's
unique preferences, demographics, or geography, the reproduction
device, or suited to the genre, artist, song, or the user--can be
applied either by having the user tune the sound profile in
modality 102 or by applying predefined sound profiles during
reproduction in modality 102.
[0039] Similarly, audio entertainment could be experienced outdoors
on a patio or deck, in which case there may be almost no
reflections. In addition to the various criteria described above,
device information including device identifiers or location
information could be used to automatically identify an outdoor
consumption modality, or a user could manually input the modality.
As in the other modalities, sound profiles can be used to modify
the audio data so that the auditory experience is enhanced and
optimized.
[0040] With more users storing and/or accessing media remotely,
users will expect their preferences for audio reproduction to be
carried across different modalities, such as those represented in
FIGS. 1A-C. For example, if a user makes a change in the sound
profile for a song while experiencing it in modality 101, the user
may expect that same change will be present when next listening to
the same song in modality 102. Given the different challenges
inherent in each of the consumption modalities, however, not to
mention the different reproduction devices that may be present in
each modality, for the audio experience to be enhanced and
optimized, such user-initiated changes in one modality may need to
be harmonized or combined with other, additional modifications
unique to the second modality. These multiple and complex
modifications can be accomplished through sound profiles, even if
the user does not necessarily appreciate the intricacies
involved.
[0041] FIG. 2 shows headphones including a haptic device. In
particular, headphones 200 includes headband 210. Right ear cup 220
is attached to one end of headband 210. Right ear cup 220 can
include a driver that pushes a speaker to reproduce audio. Left ear
cup 230 is attached to the opposite end of headband 210 and can
similarly include a driver that pushes a speaker to reproduce
audio. The top of headband 210 can include haptic device 240.
Haptic device 240 can be covered by cover 250. Padding 245 can
cover the cover 250. Right ear cup 220 can include a power source
270 and recharging jack 295. Left ear cup 230 can include signal
processing components 260 inside of it, and headphone jack 280.
Left ear cup 230 can have control 290 attached. Headphone jack 280
can accept an audio cable to receive audio signals from a mobile
device. Control 290 can be used to adjust audio settings, such as
to increase the bass response or the haptic response. In other
implementations, the location of power source 270, recharging jack
295, headphone jack 280, and signal processing components 260 can
swap ear cups, or be combined into either single ear cup.
[0042] Multiple components are involved in both the haptic and
sound profile functions of the headphones. These functions are
discussed on a component-by-component basis below.
[0043] Power source 270 can be a battery or other power storage
device known in the art. In one implementation it can be one or
more batteries that are removable and replaceable. For example, it
could be an AAA alkaline battery. In another implementation it
could be a rechargeable battery that is not removable. Right ear
cup 270 can include recharging jack 295 to recharge the battery.
Recharging jack 295 can be in the micro USB format. Power source
270 can provide power to signal processing components 260. Power
source 270 can provide power to signal processing components 260.
Power source 270 can last at least 10 hours.
[0044] Signal processing components 260 can receive stereo signals
from headphone jack 280 or through a wireless networking device,
process sound profiles received from headphone jack 280 or through
wireless networking, create a mono signal for haptic device 240,
and amplify the mono signal to drive haptic device 240. In another
implementation, signal processing components 260 can also amplify
the right audio channel that drives the driver in the right ear cup
and amplify the left audio channel that drives the left audio cup.
Signal processing components 260 can deliver a low pass filtered
signal to the haptic device that is mono in nature but derived from
both channels of the stereo audio signal. Because it can be
difficult for users to distinguish the direction or the source of
bass in a home or automotive environment, combining the low
frequency signals into a mono signal for bass reproduction can
simulate a home or car audio environment. In another
implementation, signal processing components 260 can deliver stereo
low-pass filtered signals to haptic device 240.
[0045] In one implementation, signal processing components 260 can
include an analog low-pass filter. The analog low-pass filter can
use inductors, resistors, and/or capacitors to attenuate
high-frequency signals from the audio. Signal processing components
260 can use analog components to combine the signals from the left
and right channels to create a mono signal, and to amplify the
low-pass signal sent to haptic device 240.
[0046] In another implementation, signal processing components 260
can be digital. The digital components can receive the audio
information, via a network. Alternatively, they can receive the
audio information from an analog source, convert the audio to
digital, low-pass filter the audio using a digital signal
processor, and provide the low-pass filtered audio to a digital
amplifier.
[0047] Control 290 can be used to modify the audio experience. In
one implementation, control 290 can be used to adjust the volume.
In another implementation, control 290 can be used to adjust the
bass response or to separately adjust the haptic response. Control
290 can provide an input to signal processing components 260.
[0048] Haptic device 240 can be made from a small transducer (e.g.,
a motor element) which transmits low frequencies (e.g., 1 Hz-100
Hz) to the headband. The small transducer can be less than 1.5'' in
size and can consume less than 1 watt of power. Haptic device 240
can be an off-the shelf haptic device commonly used in touch
screens or for exciters to turn glass or plastic into a speaker.
Haptic device 240 can use a voice coil or magnet to create the
vibrations.
[0049] Haptic device 240 can be positioned so it is displacing
directly on the headband 210. This position allows much smaller and
thus power efficient transducers to be utilized. The housing
assembly for haptic device 240, including cover 250, is
free-floating, which can maximize articulation of haptic device 240
and reduces dampening of its signal.
[0050] The weight of haptic device 240 can be selected as a ratio
to the mass of the headband 210. The mass of haptic device 240 can
be selected directly proportional to the rigid structure to enable
sufficient acoustic and mechanical energy to be transmitted to the
ear cups. If the mass of haptic device 240 were selected to be
significantly lower than the mass of the headband 210, then
headband 210 would dampen all mechanical and acoustic energy.
Conversely, if the mass of haptic device 240 were significantly
higher than the mass of the rigid structure, then the weight of the
headphone would be unpleasant for extended usage and may lead to
user fatigue. Haptic device 240 is optimally placed in the top of
headband 210. This positioning allows the gravity of the headband
to generate a downward force that increases the transmission of
mechanical vibrations from the haptic device to the user. The top
of the head also contains a thinner layer of skin and thus locating
haptic device 240 here provides more proximate contact to the
skull. The unique position of haptic device 240 can enable the user
to experience an immersive experience that is not typically
delivered via traditional headphones with drivers located merely in
the headphone cups.
[0051] The haptic device can limit its reproduction to low
frequency audio content. For example, the audio content can be
limited to less than 100 Hz. Vibrations from haptic device 240 can
be transmitted from haptic device 240 to the user through three
contact points: the top of the skull, the left ear cup, and the
right ear cup. This creates an immersive bass experience. Because
headphones have limited power storage capacities and thus require
higher energy efficiencies to satisfy desired battery life, the use
of a single transducer in a location that maximizes transmission
across the three contact points also creates a power-efficient bass
reproduction.
[0052] Cover 250 can allow haptic device 240 to vibrate freely.
Headphone 200 can function without cover 250, but the absence of
cover 250 can reduce the intensity of vibrations from haptic device
240 when a user's skull presses too tightly against haptic device
240.
[0053] Padding 245 covers haptic device 240 and cover 250.
Depending on its size, shape, and composition, padding 245 can
further facilitate the transmission of the audio and mechanical
energy from haptic device 240 to the skull of a user. For example,
padding 245 can distribute the transmission of audio and mechanical
energy across the skull based on its size and shape to increase the
immersive audio experience. Padding 245 can also dampen the
vibrations from haptic device 240.
[0054] Headband 210 can be a rigid structure, allowing the low
frequency energy from haptic device 240 to transfer down the band,
through the left ear cup 230 and right ear cup 220 to the user.
Forming headband 210 of a rigid material facilitates efficient
transmission of low frequency audio to ear cups 230 and 220. For
example, headband 210 can be made from hard plastic like
polycarbonate or a lightweight metal like aluminum. In another
implementation, headband 210 can be made from spring steel.
Headband 210 can be made such that the material is optimized for
mechanical and acoustic transmissibility through the material.
Headband 210 can be made by selecting specific type materials as
well as a form factor that maximizes transmission. For example, by
utilizing reinforced ribbing in headband 210, the amount of energy
dampened by the rigid band can be reduced and enable more efficient
transmission of the mechanical and acoustic frequencies to be
passed to the ear cups 220 and 230.
[0055] Headband 210 can be made with a clamping force measured
between ear cups 220 and 230 such that the clamping force is not so
tight as to reduce vibrations and not so loose as to minimize
transmission of the vibrations. The clamping force can be in the
range of 300 g to 700 g.
[0056] Ear cups 220 and 230 can be designed to fit over the ears
and to cover the whole ear. Ear cups 220 and 230 can be designed to
couple and transmit the low frequency audio and mechanical energy
to the user's head. Ear cups 220 and 230 may be static. In another
implementation, ear cups 220 and 230 can swivel, with the cups
continuing to be attached to headband 210 such that they transmit
audio and mechanical energy from headband 210 to the user
regardless of their positioning.
[0057] Vibration and audio can be transmitted to the user via
multiple methods including auditory via the ear canal, and bone
conduction via the skull of the user. Transmission via bone
conduction can occur at the top of the skull and around the ears
through ear cups 220 and 230. This feature creates both an aural
and tactile experience for the user that is similar to the audio a
user experiences when listening to audio from a system that uses a
subwoofer. For example, this arrangement can create a headphone
environment where the user truly feels the bass.
[0058] In another aspect, some or all of the internal components
could be found in an amplifier and speaker system found in a house
or a car. For example, the internal components of headphone 200
could be found in a car stereo head unit with the speakers found in
the dash and doors of the car.
[0059] FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of a reproduction system 300
that can be used to implement the techniques described herein for
an enhanced audio experience. Reproduction system 300 can be
implemented inside of headphones 200. Reproduction system 300 can
be part of signal processing components 260. Reproduction system
300 can include bus 365 that connects the various components. Bus
365 can be composed of multiple channels or wires, and can include
one or more physical connections to permit unidirectional or
omnidirectional communication between two or more of the components
in reproduction system 300. Alternatively, components connected to
bus 365 can be connected to reproduction system 300 through
wireless technologies such as Bluetooth, Wifi, or cellular
technology.
[0060] An input 340 including one or more input devices can be
configured to receive instructions and information. For example, in
some implementations input 340 can include a number of buttons. In
some other implementations input 340 can include one or more of a
touch pad, a touch screen, a cable interface, and any other such
input devices known in the art. Input 340 can include knob 290.
Further, audio and image signals also can be received by the
reproduction system 300 through the input 340.
[0061] Headphone jack 310 can be configured to receive audio and/or
data information. Audio information can include stereo or other
multichannel information. Data information can include metadata or
sound profiles. Data information can be sent between segments of
audio information, for example between songs, or modulated to
inaudible frequencies and transmitted with the audio
information.
[0062] Further, reproduction system 300 can also include network
interface 380. Network interface 380 can be wired or wireless. A
wireless network interface 380 can include one or more radios for
making one or more simultaneous communication connections (e.g.,
wireless, Bluetooth, low power Bluetooth, cellular systems, PCS
systems, or satellite communications). Network interface 380 can
receive audio information, including stereo or multichannel audio,
or data information, including metadata or sound profiles.
[0063] An audio signal, user input, metadata, other input or any
portion or combination thereof can be processed in reproduction
system 300 using the processor 350. Processor 350 can be used to
perform analysis, processing, editing, playback functions, or to
combine various signals, including adding metadata to either or
both of audio and image signals. Processor 350 can use memory 360
to aid in the processing of various signals, e.g., by storing
intermediate results. Processor 350 can include A/D processors to
convert analog audio information to digital information. Processor
350 can also include interfaces to pass digital audio information
to amplifier 320. Processor 350 can process the audio information
to apply sound profiles, create a mono signal and apply low pass
filter. Processor 350 can also apply Alpine's MX algorithm.
[0064] Processor 350 can low pass filter audio information using an
active low pass filter to allow for higher performance and the
least amount of signal attenuation. The low pass filter can have a
cut off of approximately 80 Hz-100 Hz. The cut off frequency can be
adjusted based on settings received from input 340 or network 380.
Processor 350 can parse and/or analyze metadata and request sound
profiles via network 380.
[0065] In another implementation, passive filter 325 can combine
the stereo audio signals into a mono signal, apply the low pass
filter, and send the mono low pass filter signal to amplifier
320.
[0066] Memory 360 can be volatile or non-volatile memory. Either or
both of original and processed signals can be stored in memory 360
for processing or stored in storage 370 for persistent storage.
Further, storage 370 can be integrated or removable storage such as
Secure Digital, Secure Digital High Capacity, Memory Stick, USB
memory, compact flash, xD Picture Card, or a hard drive.
[0067] The audio signals accessible in reproduction system 300 can
be sent to amplifier 320. Amplifier 320 can separately amplify each
stereo channel and the low-pass mono channel. Amplifier 320 can
transmit the amplified signals to speakers 390 and haptic device
240. In another implementation, amplifier 320 can solely power
haptic device 240. Amplifier 320 can consume less than 2.5
Watts.
[0068] While reproduction system 300 is depicted as internal to a
pair of headphones 200, it can also be incorporated into a home
audio system or a car stereo system.
[0069] FIG. 4 shows a block diagram of mobile device 110, head unit
111, stereo 115 or other device similarly capable of playing audio
files. FIG. 4 presents a computer system 400 that can be used to
implement the techniques described herein for sharing digital
media. Computer system 400 can be implemented inside of mobile
device 110, head unit 111, stereo 115, or other device similar
capable of playing audio files. Bus 465 can include one or more
physical connections and can permit unidirectional or
omnidirectional communication between two or more of the components
in the computer system 400. Alternatively, components connected to
bus 465 can be connected to computer system 400 through wireless
technologies such as Bluetooth, Wifi, or cellular technology. The
computer system 400 can include a microphone 445 for receiving
sound and converting it to a digital audio signal. The microphone
445 can be coupled to bus 465, which can transfer the audio signal
to one or more other components. Computer system 400 can include a
headphone jack 460 for transmitting audio and data information to
headphones and other audio devices.
[0070] An input 440 including one or more input devices also can be
configured to receive instructions and information. For example, in
some implementations input 440 can include a number of buttons. In
some other implementations input 440 can include one or more of a
mouse, a keyboard, a touch pad, a touch screen, a joystick, a cable
interface, voice recognition, and any other such input devices
known in the art. Further, audio and image signals also can be
received by the computer system 400 through the input 440 and/or
microphone 445.
[0071] Further, computer system 400 can include network interface
420. Network interface 420 can be wired or wireless. A wireless
network interface 420 can include one or more radios for making one
or more simultaneous communication connections (e.g., wireless,
Bluetooth, low power Bluetooth, cellular systems, PCS systems, or
satellite communications). A wired network interface 420 can be
implemented using an Ethernet adapter or other wired
infrastructure.
[0072] Computer system 400 may include a GPS receiver 470 to
determine its geographic location. Alternatively, geographic
location information can be programmed into memory 415 using input
440 or received via network interface 420. Information about the
consumption modality, e.g., whether it is indoors, outdoors, etc.,
may similarly be retrieved or programmed. The user may also
personalize computer system 400 by indicating their age,
demographics, and other information that can be used to tune sound
profiles.
[0073] An audio signal, image signal, user input, metadata,
geographic information, user, reproduction device, or modality
information, other input or any portion or combination thereof, can
be processed in the computer system 400 using the processor 410.
Processor 410 can be used to perform analysis, processing, editing,
playback functions, or to combine various signals, including
parsing metadata to either or both of audio and image signals.
[0074] For example, processor 410 can parse and/or analyze metadata
from a song or video stored on computer system 400 or being
streamed across network interface 420. Processor 410 can use the
metadata to request sound profiles from the Internet through
network interface 420 or from storage 430 for the specific song,
game or video based on the artist, genre, or specific song or
video. Processor 410 can provide information through the network
interface 420 to allow selection of a sound profile based on device
information such as geography, user ID, user demographics, device
ID, consumption modality, the type of reproduction device (e.g.,
mobile device, head unit, or Bluetooth speakers), reproduction
device, or speaker arrangement (e.g., headphones plugged or
multi-channel surround sound). The user ID can be anonymous but
specific to an individual user or use real world identification
information.
[0075] Processor 410 can then use input received from input 440 to
modify a sound profile according to a user's preferences. Processor
410 can then transmit the sound profile to a headphone connected
through network interface 420 or headphone jack 460 and/or store a
new sound profile in storage 430. Processor 410 can run
applications on computer system 400 like Alpine's Tune-It mobile
application, which can adjust sound profiles. The sound profiles
can be used to adjust Alpine's MX algorithm.
[0076] Processor 410 can use memory 415 to aid in the processing of
various signals, e.g., by storing intermediate results. Memory 415
can be volatile or non-volatile memory. Either or both of original
and processed signals can be stored in memory 415 for processing or
stored in storage 430 for persistent storage. Further, storage 430
can be integrated or removable storage such as Secure Digital,
Secure Digital High Capacity, Memory Stick, USB memory, compact
flash, xD Picture Card, or a hard drive.
[0077] Image signals accessible in computer system 400 can be
presented on a display device 435, which can be an LCD display,
printer, projector, plasma display, or other display device.
Display 435 also can display one or more user interfaces such as an
input interface. The audio signals available in computer system 400
also can be presented through output 450. Output device 450 can be
a speaker, multiple speakers, and/or speakers in combination with
one or more haptic devices. Headphone jack 460 can also be used to
communicate digital or analog information, including audio and
sound profiles.
[0078] Computer system 400 could include passive filter 325,
amplifier 320, speaker 390, and haptic device 240 as describe above
with reference to FIG. 3, and be installed inside headphone
200.
[0079] FIG. 5 shows steps for processing information for
reproduction in headphones or other audio reproduction devices.
Headphones can monitor a connection to determine when audio is
received, either through an analog connection or digitally (505).
When audio is received, any analog audio can be converted from
analog to digital (510) if a digital filter is used. The sound
profile can be adjusted according to user input (e.g., a control
knob) on the headphones (515). The headphones can apply a sound
profile (520). The headphones can then create a mono signal (525)
using known mixing techniques. The mono signal can be low-pass
filtered (530). The low-pass filtered mono signal can be amplified
(535). In some implementations (e.g., when the audio is digital),
the stereo audio signal can also be amplified (540). The amplified
signals can then be transmitted to their respective drivers (545).
For example, the low-pass filtered mono signal can be sent to a
haptic device and the amplified left and right channel can be sent
to the left and right drivers respectively.
[0080] FIGS. 3 and 4 show systems capable of performing these
steps. The steps described in FIG. 5 need not be performed in the
order recited and two or more steps can be performed in parallel or
combined. In some implementations, other types of media also can be
shared or manipulated, including audio or video.
[0081] FIG. 6 shows steps for obtaining and applying sound
profiles. Mobile device 110, head unit 111, stereo 115 or other
device similarly capable of playing audio files can wait for media
to be selected for reproduction or loaded onto a mobile device
(605). The media can be a song, album, game, or movie. Once the
media is selected, metadata for the media is parsed and/or analyzed
to determine if the media contains music, voice, or a movie, and
what additional details are available such as the artist, genre or
song name (610). Additional device information, such as geography,
user ID, user demographics, device ID, consumption modality, the
type of reproduction device (e.g., mobile device, head unit, or
Bluetooth speakers), reproduction device, or speaker arrangement
(e.g., headphones plugged or multi-channel surround sound), may
also be parsed and/or analyzed in step 610. The parsed/analyzed
data is used to request a sound profile from a server over a
network, such as the Internet, or from local storage (615). For
example, Alpine could maintain a database of sound profiles matched
to various types of media and matched to various types of
reproduction devices. The sound profile could contain parameters
for increasing or decreasing various frequency bands and other
sound parameters for enhancing portions of the audio. Such aspects
could include dynamic equalization, crossover gain, dynamic noise
compression, time delays, and/or three-dimensional audio effects.
Alternatively, the sound profile could contain parameters for
modifying Alpine's MX algorithm. The sound profile is received
(620) and then adjusted to a particular user's preference (625) if
necessary. The adjusted sound profile is then transmitted (630) to
a reproduction device, such as a pair of headphones. The adjusted
profile and its associated metadata can also be transmitted (640)
to the server where the sound profile, its metadata, and the
association is stored, both for later analysis and use by the
user.
[0082] FIGS. 3 and 4 show systems capable of performing these
steps. The steps described in FIG. 6 could also be performed in
headphones connected to a network without the need of an additional
mobile device. The steps described in FIG. 6 need not be performed
in the order recited and two or more steps can be performed in
parallel or combined. In some implementations, other types of media
also can be shared or manipulated, including audio or video.
[0083] FIG. 7 shows an exemplary user interface by which the user
can input geographic, consumption modality, and demographic
information for use in creating or retrieving sound profiles for a
reproduction device such as mobile device 110, head unit 111, or
stereo 115. Field 710 allows the user to input geographical
information in at least two ways. First, switch 711 allows the user
to activate or deactivate the GPS receiver. When activated, the GPS
receiver can identify the current geographical position of device
110, and uses that location as the geographical parameter when
selecting a sound profile. Alternatively, the user can set a
geographical preference using some sort of choosing mechanism, such
as the drop-down list 712. Given the wide variety of effective
techniques for creating user interfaces, one skilled in the art
will also appreciate many alternative mechanisms by which such
geographic selection could be accomplished. Field 720 of the user
interface depicted in FIG. 7 allows the user to select among
various modalities in which the user may be experiencing the audio
entertainment. While drop-down list 721 is one potential tool for
this task, one skilled in the art will appreciate that others could
be equally effective. The user's selection in field 720 can be used
as the modality parameter when selecting a sound profile. Field 730
of the user interface depicted in FIG. 7 allows the user to input
certain demographic information for use in selecting a sound
profile. One such piece of information could be age, given the
changing musical styles and preferences among different
generations. Similarly, ethnicity and cultural information could be
used as inputs to account for varying musical preferences within
the country and around the world. This information can also be
inferred based on metadata patterns found in media preferences.
Again, drop-down 731 is shown as one potential tool for this task,
while other, alternative tools could also be used.
[0084] FIG. 8 shows an exemplary user interface by which the user
can select which aspects of tuning should be utilized when a sound
profile is applied. Field 810 corresponds to dynamic equalization,
which can be activated or deactivated by a switch such as item 811.
When dynamic equalization is activated, selector 812 allows the
user to select which type of audio entertainment the user wishes to
manually adjust, while selector 813 presents subchoices within each
type. For example, if a user selects "Music" with selector 812,
selector 813 could present different genres, such as "Rock,"
"Jazz," and "Classical." Based on the user's choice, a
genre-specific sound profile can be retrieved from memory or the
server, and either used as-is or further modified by the user using
additional interface elements on subscreens that can appear when
dynamic equalization is activated. Fields 820, 830, and 840 operate
in similar fashion, allowing the user to activate or deactivate
tuning aspects such as noise compression, crossover gain, and
advanced features using switches 821, 831, 831, and 842. As each
aspect is activated, controls specific to each aspect can be
revealed to the user. For example, turning on noise compression can
reveal a sider that controls the amount of noise compression.
Turning on crossover gain can reveal sliders that control both
crossover frequency and one or more gains. While the switches
presented represent one interface tool for activating and
deactivating these aspects, one will appreciate that other,
alternative interface tools could be employed to achieve similar
results.
[0085] FIGS. 9A-B show subscreens of an exemplary user interface by
which the user can make detailed changes to the equalization
settings of sound profiles for songs in two different genres, one
"Classical" and one "Hip Hop." Similarly to the structures
discussed with respect to FIG. 8, selector 910 allows the user to
select which type of audio entertainment the user can be
experiencing, while selector 920 provides choices within each type.
Here, because "Music" has been selected with selector 910, musical
genres are represented on selector 920. In FIG. 9A, the user has
selected the "Classical" genre, and therefore the predefined sound
profile for dynamic equalization for the "Classical" genre has been
loaded. Five frequency bands are presented as vertical ranges 930.
More frequency bands are possible. Each range is equipped with a
slider 940 that begins at the value predefined for that range in
"Classical" music. The user can manipulate any or all of these
sliders up or down along their vertical ranges 930 to modify the
sound presented. In field 950, the level of "Bass" begins where it
is preset for "Classical" music, i.e., the "low" value, but the
selector can be used to adjust the level of "Bass" to "High" or
"Off." In another aspect, an additional field for "Bass sensation"
that maps to haptic feedback can be presented. In FIG. 9B, the user
has selected a different genre of Music, i.e., "Hip Hop."
Accordingly, all of the dynamic equalization and Bass settings are
the predefined values for the "Hip Hop" sound profile, and one can
see that these are different than the values for "Classical." As in
FIG. 9A, if the user wishes, the user can modify any or all of the
settings in FIG. 9B. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, the
controls of the interface presented in FIGS. 9A and 9B could be
accomplished with alternative tools. Similarly, although similar
subscreens have not been presented for each of the other aspects of
tuning, similar subscreens with additional controls can be utilized
for crossover gain, dynamic noise compression, time delays, and/or
three-dimensional audio effects.
[0086] FIG. 10 shows an exemplary user interface by which the user
can share the sound profile settings the user or the user's
contacts have chosen. User's identification is represented by some
sort of user identification 1010, whether that is an actual name, a
screen name, or some other kind of alias. The user can also be
represented graphically, by some kind of picture or avatar 1011.
The user interface in FIG. 10 contains an "Activity" region 1020
that can update periodically but which can be manually updated
using a control such as refresh button 1021. Within "Activity"
region 1020, a number of events 1030 are displayed. Each event 1030
contains detail regarding the audio file experienced by another
user 1031--again identified by some kind of moniker, picture, or
avatar--and which sound profile 1032 was used to modify it. In FIG.
10, the audio file being listened to during each event 1030 is
represented by an album cover 1033, but could be represented in
other ways. The user interface allows the user to choose to
experience the same audio file listened to by the other user 1031
by selecting it from activity region 1030. The user is then free to
use the same sound profile 1032 as the other user 1031, or to
decide for him or herself how the audio should be tuned according
to the techniques described earlier herein.
[0087] In addition to following the particular audio events of
certain other users in the "Activity" region 1020, the user
interface depicted in FIG. 10 contains a "Suggestion" region 1040.
Within "Suggestion" region 1040, the user interface is capable of
making suggestions of additional users to follow, such as other
user 1041, based on their personal connections to the user, their
personal connection to those other users being followed by the
user, or having similar audio tastes to the user based on their
listening preferences or history 1042.
[0088] FIGS. 3 and 4 show systems capable of providing the user
interface discuss in FIGS. 7-10.
[0089] FIG. 11 shows steps undertaken by a computer with a sound
profile database receiving a sound profile request. The computer
can be a local computer or stored in the cloud, on a server on a
network, including the Internet. In particular, the database, which
is connected to a network for communication, may receive a sound
profile request (1105) from devices such as mobile device 110
referred to above. Such a request can provide device information
and audio metadata identifying what kind of sound profile is being
requested, and which user is requesting it. In another aspect, the
request can contain an audio sample, which can be used to identify
the metadata. Accordingly, the database is able to identify the
user making the request (1110) and then search storage for any
previously-modified sound profiles created and stored by the user
that match the request (1115). If such a previously-modified
profile matching the request exists in storage, the database is
able to transmit it to the user over a network (1120). If no such
previously-modified profile matching the request exists, the
database works to analyze data included in the request to determine
what preexisting sound profiles might be suitable (1125). For
example, as discussed elsewhere herein, basic sound profiles could
be archived in the database corresponding to different metadata
such as genres of music, the artist, or song name. Similarly, the
database could be loaded with sound profiles corresponding to
specific reproduction devices or basic consumption modalities. The
user may have identified his or her preferred geography, either as
a predefined location or by way of the GPS receiver in the user's
audio reproduction device. That information may allow for the
modification of the generic genre profile in light of certain
geographic reproduction preferences. Similar analysis and
extrapolation may be conducted on the basis of demographic
information, the specific consumption modality (e.g., indoors,
outdoors, in a car, etc), reproduction devices, and so forth. As
discussed in more detail below, if audio files are assigned certain
intensity scores, sound profiles could be associated with intensity
levels so that a user can make a request based on the intensity of
music the user wishes to hear. As another example, the database may
have a sound profile for a similar reproduction device, for the
same song, created by someone on the same street, which suggests
that sound profile would be a good match. The weighting of the
different criteria in selecting a "best match" sound profile can
vary. For example the reproduction device may carry greater weight
than the geography. Once the data is analyzed and a suitable sound
profile is identified and/or modified based on the data, the sound
profile is transmitted over a network to the user (1130). Such a
database could be maintained as part of a music streaming service,
or other store that sells audio entertainment.
[0090] For example, the computer or set of computers could also
maintaining a library of audio or media files for download or
streaming by users. The audio and media files would have metadata,
which could include intensity scores. When a user or recommendation
engine selects media for download or streaming, the metadata for
that media could be used to transmit a user's stored, modified
sound profile (1120) or whatever preexisting sound profile might be
suitable (1125). The computer can then transmit the sound profile
with the media or transmit it or transmit it less frequency if the
sound profile is suitable for multiple pieces of subsequent media
(e.g. if a user selects a genre on a streaming station, the
computer system may only need to send a sound profile for the first
song of that genre, at least until the user switches genres).
[0091] Computer system 400 and computer system 1300 show systems
capable of performing these steps. A subset of components in
computer system 400 or computer system 1300 could also be used, and
the components could be found in a PC, server, or cloud-based
system. The steps described in FIG. 11 need not be performed in the
order recited and two or more steps can be performed in parallel or
combined.
[0092] FIG. 12 shows steps undertaken by a computer with a sound
profile database receiving a user-modified sound profile. In
particular, once a user modifies an existing sound profile as
previously described herein, the user's audio reproduction device
can transmit the modified sound profile over a network back to the
database at the first convenient opportunity. The modified sound
profile is received at the database (1205), and can contain the
modified sound profile information and information identifying the
user, as well as any information entered by the user about
himself/herself and information about the audio reproduction that
resulted in the modifications. The database identifies the user of
the modified sound profile (1210). Then the database analyzes the
information accompanying the sound profile (1215). The database
stores the modified sound profile for later use in response to
requests from the user (1220). In addition, the database analyzes
the user's modifications to the sound profile compared to the
parsed/analyzed data (1225). If enough users modify a preexisting
sound profile in a certain way, the preexisting default profile may
be updated accordingly (1230). By way of example, if enough users
from a certain geography consistently increase the level of bass in
a preexisting sound profile for a certain genre of music, the
preexisting sound profile for that geography may be updated to
reflect an increased level of bass. In this way, the database can
be responsive to trends among users, and enhance the sound profile
performance over time. This is helpful, for example, if the
database is being used to provide a streaming service, or other
type of store where audio entertainment can be purchased.
Similarly, if a user submits multiple sound profiles that have been
modified in a similarly way (e.g. increasing the bass), the
database can modify the default profiles when the same user makes
requests for new sound profiles. After a first user has submitted a
handful of modified profiles, the database can match the first
user's changes to a second user in the database with more modified
profiles and then use the second user's modified profiles when
responding to future requests from the first user. The steps
described in FIG. 12 need not be performed in the order recited and
two or more steps can be performed in parallel or combined.
[0093] FIG. 13 shows a block diagram of a computer system capable
of performing the steps depicted in FIGS. 11 and 12. A subset of
components in computer system 1300 could also be used, and the
components could be found in a PC, server, or cloud-based system.
Bus 1365 can include one or more physical connections and can
permit unidirectional or omnidirectional communication between two
or more of the components in the computer system 1300.
Alternatively, components connected to bus 1365 can be connected to
computer system 1300 through wireless technologies such as
Bluetooth, Wifi, or cellular technology. The computer system 1300
can include a microphone 1345 for receiving sound and converting it
to a digital audio signal. The microphone 1345 can be coupled to
bus 1365, which can transfer the audio signal to one or more other
components. Computer system 1300 can include a headphone jack 1360
for transmitting audio and data information to headphones and other
audio devices.
[0094] An input 1340 including one or more input devices also can
be configured to receive instructions and information. For example,
in some implementations input 1340 can include a number of buttons.
In some other implementations input 1340 can include one or more of
a mouse, a keyboard, a touch pad, a touch screen, a joystick, a
cable interface, voice recognition, and any other such input
devices known in the art. Further, audio and image signals also can
be received by the computer system 1300 through the input 1340.
[0095] Further, computer system 1300 can include network interface
1320. Network interface 1320 can be wired or wireless. A wireless
network interface 1320 can include one or more radios for making
one or more simultaneous communication connections (e.g., wireless,
Bluetooth, low power Bluetooth, cellular systems, PCS systems, or
satellite communications). A wired network interface 1320 can be
implemented using an Ethernet adapter or other wired
infrastructure.
[0096] Computer system 1300 includes a processor 1310. Processor
1310 can use memory 1315 to aid in the processing of various
signals, e.g., by storing intermediate results. Memory 1315 can be
volatile or non-volatile memory. Either or both of original and
processed signals can be stored in memory 1315 for processing or
stored in storage 1330 for persistent storage. Further, storage
1330 can be integrated or removable storage such as Secure Digital,
Secure Digital High Capacity, Memory Stick, USB memory, compact
flash, xD Picture Card, or a hard drive.
[0097] Image signals accessible in computer system 1300 can be
presented on a display device 1335, which can be an LCD display,
printer, projector, plasma display, or other display device.
Display 1335 also can display one or more user interfaces such as
an input interface. The audio signals available in computer system
1300 also can be presented through output 1350. Output device 1350
can be a speaker. Headphone jack 1360 can also be used to
communicate digital or analog information, including audio and
sound profiles.
[0098] In addition to being capable of performing virtually all of
the same kinds of analysis, processing, parsing, editing, and
playback tasks as computer system 400 described above, computer
system 1300 is also capable of maintaining a database of users,
either in storage 1330 or across additional networked storage
devices. This type of database can be useful, for example, to
operate a streaming service, or other type of store where audio
entertainment can be purchased. Within the user database, each user
is assigned some sort of unique identifier. Whether provided to
computer system 1300 using input 1340 or by transmissions over
network interface 1320, various data regarding each user can be
associated with that user's identifier in the database, including
demographic information, geographic information, and information
regarding reproduction devices and consumption modalities.
Processor 1310 is capable of analyzing such data associated with a
given user and extrapolate from it the user's likely preferences
when it comes to audio reproduction. For example, given a
particular user's location and age, processor 1310 may be able to
extrapolate that that user prefers a more bass-intensive
experience. As another example, processor 1310 could recognize from
device information that a particular reproduction device is meant
for a transportation modality, and may therefore require bass
supplementation, time delays, or other 3D audio effects. These user
reproduction preferences can be stored in the database for later
retrieval and use.
[0099] In addition to the user database, computer system 1300 is
capable of maintaining a collection of sound profiles, either in
storage 1330 or across additional networked storage devices. Some
sound profiles may be generic, in the sense that they are not tied
to particular, individual users, but may rather be associated with
artists, albums, genres, games, movies, geographical regions,
demographic groups, consumption modalities, device types, or
specific devices. Other sound profiles may be associated with
particular users, in that the users may have created or modified a
sound profile and submitted it to computer system 1300 in
accordance with the process described in FIG. 12. Such
user-specific sound profiles not only contain the user's
reproduction preferences but, by containing audio information and
device information, they allow computer system 1300 to organize,
maintain, analyze, and modify the sound profiles associated with a
given user. For example, if a user modifies a certain sound profile
while listening to a particular song in the user's car and submits
that modified profile to computer system 1300, processor 1310 may
recognize the changes user has made and decide which of those
changes are attributable to the transportation modality versus
which are more generally applicable. The user's other preexisting
sound profiles can then be modified in ways particular to their
modalities if different. Given a sufficient user population, then,
trends in changing preferences will become apparent and processor
1310 can track such trends and use them to modify sound profiles
more generally. For example, if a particular demographic group's
reproduction preferences are changing according to a particular
trend as they age, computer system 1300 can be sensitive to that
trend and modify all the profiles associated with users in that
demographic group accordingly.
[0100] In accordance with the process described in FIG. 11, users
may request sound profiles from the collection maintained by
computer system 1300, and when such requests are received over
network interface 1320, processor 1310 is capable of performing the
analysis and extrapolation necessary to determine the proper
profile to return to the user in response to the request. If the
user has changed consumption modalities since submitting a sound
profile, for example, that change may be apparent in the device
information associated with the user's request, and processor 1310
can either select a particular preexisting sound profile that suits
that consumption modality, or adjust a preexisting sound profile to
better suit that new modality. Similar examples are possible with
users who use multiple reproduction devices, change genres, and so
forth.
[0101] Given that computer system 1300 will be required to make
selections among sound profiles in a multivariable system (e.g.,
artist, genre, consumption modality, demographic information,
reproduction device), weighting tables may need to programmed into
storage 1330 to allow processor 1310 to balance such factors.
Again, such weighting tables can be modified over time if computer
system 1300 detects that certain variables are predominating over
others.
[0102] In addition to the user database and collection of sound
profiles, computer system 1300 is also capable of maintaining
libraries of audio content in its own storage 1330 and/or accessing
other, networked libraries of audio content. In this way, computer
system 1300 can be used not just to provide sound profiles in
response to user requests, but also to provide the audio content
itself that will be reproduced using those sound profiles as part
of a streaming service, or other type of store where audio
entertainment can be purchased. For example, in response to a user
request to listen to a particular song in the user's car, computer
system 1300 could select the appropriate sound profile, transmit it
over network interface 1320 to the reproduction device in the car
and then stream the requested song to the car for reproduction
using the sound profile. Alternatively, the entire audio file
representing the song could be sent for reproduction.
[0103] FIG. 14 shows a diagram of how computer system 1300 can
service multiple users from its user database. Computer system 1300
communicates over the Internet 140 using network connections 150
with each of the users denoted at 1410, 1420, and 1430. User 1410
uses three reproduction devices, head end 111, likely in a
transportation modality, stereo 115, likely in an indoor modality,
and portable media player 110, whose modality may change depending
on its location. Accordingly, when user 1410 contacts computer
system 1300 to make a sound profile request, the device information
associated with that request may identify which of these
reproduction devices is being used, where, and how to help inform
computer system 1300's selection of a sound profile. User 1420 only
has one reproduction device, headphones 200, and user 1430 has
three devices, television 113, media player 114, and videogame
system 116, but otherwise the process is identical.
[0104] Playback can be further enhanced by a deeper analysis of a
user's music library. For example,
[0105] In addition to more traditional audio selection metrics such
as artist, genre, or the use of sonographic algorithms, intensity
can be used as a criteria by which to select audio content. In this
context, intensity refers to the blending of the low-frequency
sound wave, amplitude, and wavelength. Using beats-per-minute and
sound wave frequency, each file in a library of audio files can be
assigned an intensity score, e.g., from 1 to 4, with Level 1 being
the lowest intensity level and Level 4 being the highest. When all
or a subset of these audio files are loaded onto a reproduction
device, that device can detect the files (1505) and determine their
intensity, sorthing them based on their intensity level in the
process (1510). The user then need only input his or her desired
intensity level and the reproduction device can create a customized
playlist of files based on the user's intensity selection (1520).
For example, if the user has just returned home from a hard day of
work, the user may desire low-intensity files and select Level 1.
Alternatively, the user may be preparing to exercise, in which case
the user may select Level 4. If the user desires, the intensity
selection can be accomplished by the device itself, e.g., by
recognizing the geographic location and making an extrapolation of
the desired intensity at that location. By way of example, if the
user is at the gym, the device can recognize that location and
automatically extrapolate that Level 4 will be desired. The user
can provide feedback while listening to the intensity-selected
playlist and the system can use such feedback to adjust the user's
intensity level selection and the resulting playlist (1530).
Finally, the user's intensity settings, as well as the iterative
feedback and resulting playlists can be returned to the computer
system for further analysis (1540). By analyzing user's responses
to the selected playlists, better intensity scores can be assigned
to each file, better correlations between each of the variables
(BPM, soundwave frequency) and intensity can be developed, and
better prediction patterns of which files users will enjoy at a
given intensity level can be constructed.
[0106] The steps described in FIG. 15 need not be performed in the
order recited and two or more steps can be performed in parallel or
combined. The steps of FIG. 15 can be accomplished by a user's
reproduction device, such as those with the capabilities depicted
in FIGS. 3 and 4. Alternatively, the steps in FIG. 15 could be
performed in the cloud or on a server on the Internet by a device
with the capabilities of those depicted in FIG. 13 as part of a
streaming service or other type of store where audio entertainment
can be purchased. The intensity analysis could be done for each
song and stored with corresponding metadata for each song. The
information could be provided to a user when it requests one or
more sound profiles to save power on the device and create a more
consistent intensity analysis. In another aspect, an intensity
score calculated by a device could be uploaded with a modified
sound profile and the sound profile database could store that
intensity score and provide it to other users requesting sound
profiles for the same song.
[0107] FIGS. 16A-B show an exemplary user interface by which the
user can perform intensity-based content selection on a
reproduction device such as mobile device 110. In FIG. 16A, the
various intensity levels are represented by color gradations 1610.
By moving slider 1620 up or down, the user can select an intensity
level based on the color representations. Metadata such as artist
and song titles can be layered on top of visual elements 1610 to
provide specific examples of songs that match the selected
intensity score. In FIG. 16B, haptic interpretations have been
added as concentric circles 1630 and 1640. By varying the spacing,
line weight, and/or oscillation frequency of these circles, a
visual throbbing effect can be depicted to represent changes in the
haptic response at the different intensity levels so the user can
select the appropriate, desired level. As one skilled in the art
will appreciate, the controls of the interface presented in FIGS.
16A and 16B could be accomplished with alternative tools. FIGS. 3
and 4 show systems capable of providing the user interface depicted
in FIGS. 16A-B.
[0108] A number of examples of implementations have been disclosed
herein. Other implementations are possible based on what is
disclosed and illustrated.
* * * * *