New Patent Solves Voice Localization Issues Over Phone Calls
In a recent patent filing, Glen A. Norris has proposed a groundbreaking solution to a persistent problem faced during phone calls - voice localization. This patent, titled "Sound Localization for an Electronic Call," aims to tackle issues that arise from the discrepancy between where a person's voice is perceived to be coming from and the actual source of the sound.
The problem lies in the interpolation of angular positions for a sound source, which can lead to confusion or errors in sound localization. This often results in the listener experiencing front-back confusion when trying to determine the origin of a sound. Glen A. Norris's patent addresses this problem by monitoring real-time head movement and orientation in response to generated sounds at specific sound localization points. By extracting and interpreting keywords from conversations and providing visual clues, such as a picture or icon representing the person being positioned on a visual display relative to other objects, the patent proposes a more accurate and immersive sound experience.
The heart of this patent lies in the concept of Head-Related Impulse Responses (HRIRs) and Head-Related Transfer Functions (HRTFs). These functions involve capturing, processing, and altering sound waves to modify their properties before they reach the listener. By manipulating these HRTFs, the altered sound waves can create the perception that the sound originates from a different location than the actual source.
Imagine a scenario where you are wearing electronic earpieces equipped with speakers and microphones during a phone call. These speakers provide sound from the person on the other end, while the microphones capture your voice and transmit it to the caller. Additionally, when you are not engaged in a call, the microphones capture sound from your surroundings. By correlating the recorded sound impulses with your head orientation, the patent allows for the calculation of user-specific HRTFs, enhancing the accuracy of sound localization.
The impact of this patented technology is far-reaching. Once implemented, it has the potential to revolutionize phone calls, creating a more immersive and realistic experience. Picture being able to engage in a phone conversation that simulates being in the same room as the other person, even if they are miles away. Professionals conducting virtual meetings, long-distance relationships, or families connecting across continents would greatly benefit from this innovation.
Furthermore, this technology holds promise in fields such as virtual reality and gaming. Gamers could experience enhanced audio, allowing them to accurately pinpoint the source of in-game sounds, adding a new layer of realism to their gaming experiences. Virtual reality applications would also benefit from the improved sound localization, enriching the overall immersive experience.
It is important to note that this patent, though innovative, does not guarantee its appearance on the market. Many factors come into play when determining the viability and commercialization of a patented technology. However, if this patent does become a reality, it has the potential to reshape the way we perceive and interact with sound during phone calls and beyond.
P.S. Please note that this article is based on a patent filing (patent number US20240048927A1) and its inclusion here does not guarantee its availability or implementation in the market.
Disclaimer: The New York Times does not independently verify the accuracy or validity of patent claims or their potential market impact.