Simultaneous generation/capture of multiple focuses sound beams

Abstract

This paper describes sound beam generation and capture by speaker array and microphone array system. 16ch online speaker array system generates sound beam towards appropriate directions. 128ch square speaker array system generates sound spot towards appropriate positions. Since it transmits necessary sound information to only a specific person, it can be used in quiet places, such as a museum. 8ch online microphone array system captures sound from appropriate direction. It can be used as ears of a humanoid robot. The authors call a position to want to generate/capture sound "focus". Focusing is achieved by sum and delay beam former. (SDBF) More than two focuses can be simultaneously generated/captured by speaker array/microphone array. Speaker array system is evaluated by using gantry and sound level meter that are controlled by PC system. Microphone array system is evaluated by using frequency ingredient of the sound.