DIRECTED SOUND TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS AND METHODS USING POSITION LOCATION

BACKGROUND
Field

Various embodiments disclosed herein relate to speakers. Certain embodiments relate to parametric speakers.

Description of Related Art

Communication in noisy environments has always been a challenge. Getting someone's attention while standing in line or in conjunction with waiting in line may require shouting to get the person's attention. In an ever-evolving world, besides the noise present in an environment, conveying a message can also result in a competition for time. Particularly for advertising, messages directed at people can sometimes best be sent when they are waiting for something or have periods of downtime. For instance, individuals standing in line can represent a captive audience for receiving messages. So too are patrons of a bar or restaurant.

Loudness is measured in a unit defined as decibels (dB). Noises that are above 85 dB may cause hearing loss over time by damaging ear fibers. The ear can repair itself if exposed to noise below a certain regeneration threshold. Still, once permanent damage occurs and one's hearing is gone, ear fibers cannot be fixed, nor can a person regain their hearing. Some examples that employ a safe hearing range include whispering and normal conversations around 30 dB and 60-80 dB, respectively. Unsafe zones include sporting events, rock concerts, and fireworks, around 94-110 dB, 95-115 dB, and 140-160 dB, respectively. Headphones fall into the range of 96-110 dB, placing them in the unsafe region. The ear should only be exposed to an intensity of 97 dB for about 3 hours per day, 105 dB for about 1 hour per day, or 110 dB for 30 minutes per day before causing ear damage.

As described, damage to the ear may occur when headphones deliver unsafe sound levels directly to the ear canal. This damage is directly related to how much that sound makes your eardrum vibrate. When using speakers, sound waves have to travel a few feet before reaching the listener's ears. This distance allows some of the higher frequency waves to attenuate. With headphones, the eardrum will be excited by all frequencies without attenuation, so headphones can be more damaging than speakers at the same volume. Additionally, many people are trying to produce acoustic isolation when using headphones, which requires higher volumes to drown out ambient noise. For this reason, headphone audio levels should be chosen cautiously so as not to cause permanent ear damage and hearing loss.

In addition to hearing loss, headphones can cause a ringing in one or both ears, known as tinnitus, pain in the ear, or eardrum. Other physical effects from headphone use include ear infections, characterized by swelling, reddening, and discharge in the ear canal, itching pain, and feelings of tenderness or fullness in the ear. Impacted wax (i.e., wax buildup) and aural hygiene problems may also result from headphone use. They can create a potential for bacteria to form in the ear canal due to increases in temperature and humidity of the ear canal. As a consequence of the above, communications involving headphones are far from ideal.

Parametric speakers provide directed sound over smaller wavelengths than most conventional systems, enabling a higher degree of directionality than other systems. Sound can be focused at a high intensity for receipt by a specific receiver. Nevertheless, harmful noise levels, as described above, are a constant source of concern. Further, hearing for an individual may be age-dependent, especially as one becomes older. Generally, there may be sound loss of hearing at higher frequencies with increased age. Further, high frequencies can damage hearing, especially at high-intensity levels.

There is a need to implement parametric speaker technology and methods that better facilitate the safe conveyance of messaging over and above that presently used.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments, a focused beam directional speaker system is provided, which includes a modulator configured to produce an ultrasonic modulated carrier signal by modulating an ultrasonic carrier signal with the audio signal. In some embodiments, the system comprises a queue rate processor configured to calculate a queue rate and determine a target's location in a queue based on the queue rate. The system may include at least one ultrasonic focused beam directional speaker configured to send, based on the queue rate, to a target in a queue area, an ultrasonic pressure wave, representative of the ultrasonic modulated carrier signal, through a transmission medium. In some embodiments, the ultrasonic modulated carrier signal demodulates in connection with the ultrasonic pressure wave reaching the target.

In some embodiments, the focused beam directional speaker system comprises a translation engine including a translation processor coupled to the ultrasonic focused beam directional speaker.

The focused beam directional speaker system may include one or more directional microphones coupled to the translation engine in some embodiments.

In some embodiments, the focused beam directional speaker system includes a video processor configured to receive video samples of the queue area. The video processor may be coupled to the queue rate processor.

Even still, in some embodiments, the at least one ultrasonic focused beam directional speaker is further configured to send the ultrasonic pressure wave, based on the queue rate, in conjunction with video information processed by the video processor, to the target in the queue area.

The disclosure also includes methods of providing focused beam directional sound to predetermined locations in a queue area. In some embodiments, the method includes calculating a queue rate; sampling sound by taking one or more sound samples from at least one location within a queue area; identifying a language, when present, inherent within audio information received from the one or more sound samples; producing an audio content signal for a target, in the queue area, in the language; generating a modulated ultrasonic signal, for the target, in the queue area, by modulating an ultrasonic carrier with the audio content signal for the target in the queue area; and transmitting, to a current location, determined from the queue rate, of the target in the queue area, an ultrasonic pressure wave, representative of the modulated ultrasonic signal, through a transmission medium.

In some embodiments, the method includes calculating the queue rate in conjunction with using video samples of the queue area. The sampling may be accomplished in connection with using one or more directional microphones aimed at the predetermined locations within the queue area.

In some embodiments, the method includes modulating the one or more audio signals with an ultrasonic carrier signal to produce one or more modulated ultrasonic carrier signals; sending one or more ultrasonic pressure waves, through a transmission medium, representative of the one or more modulated ultrasonic carrier signals, to one or more target locations, as selected therefor, in a listening environment, wherein in connection with the one or more ultrasonic pressure waves reaching the one or more target locations, the one or more modulated ultrasonic carrier signals demodulate.

In some embodiments, the listening environment is a venue having a plurality of audio and video monitors distributed within the venue. The one or more target locations within the listening environment may include a seating location within the listening environment.

In some embodiments, the system disclosed herein may be integrated into other digital systems/hardware. For instance, a restaurant chain such as Chili's® has tablets on tables for ordering. The system described herein may be integrated for use with the Chili's® ordering system.

In some embodiments, the method further includes producing white Gaussian noise; modulating the one or more ultrasonic pressure waves by the Gaussian noise to produce one or more modulated noise signals; and transmitting, to an area section in the listening environment, the one or more modulated noise signals through the transmission medium.

In some embodiments, the method further includes sampling sound by taking one or more sound samples in the listening environment; determining noise in the listening environment; producing a noise signal from the noise; producing an inverted-noise signal by inverting the noise signal; generating an inverted-noise modulated ultrasonic signal by modulating an ultrasonic carrier with the inverted-noise signal; and transmitting, to one or more target locations in the listening environment, an ultrasonic pressure wave, through the transmission medium, representative of the inverted-noise modulated ultrasonic signal.

In some embodiments, the sound is sampled at a plurality of locations in the listening environment. One of the target locations may include a dance floor of a venue environment.

In some embodiments, the listening environment is a venue having a plurality of audio and video monitors distributed within the venue.

In some embodiments, ultrasonic waves modulated according to a message may be intentionally bounced off specific surfaces to facilitate the sound traveling to particular places. Consequently, sound may effectively “travel” silently through the air until it hits a surface.

The method may include providing a wireless link between one or more mobile devices at the one or more target locations and a venue control center at the venue in some embodiments.

In some embodiments, the method includes modulating the one or more audio signals with ultrasonic carrier signals to produce one or more modulated ultrasonic carrier signals; determining the location of one or more targets using an indoor positioning system; and directing one or more ultrasonic pressure waves, representative of the one or more modulated ultrasonic carrier signals, through a transmission medium, at the one or more targets, wherein in connection with the one or more ultrasonic pressure waves reaching the one or more targets, the one or more modulated ultrasonic carrier signals demodulate.

In some embodiments, servers or workers may hear/speak to guests via earpiece and microphone in connection with the indoor positioning system.

In some embodiments, the method includes the indoor positioning system using a positioning system selected from the group consisting of a proximity-based system, a wireless-based system, an ultrawide-band system, an acoustic system, an infrared system, and a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the wireless-based system determines location based on time difference of arrival (TDOA).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Features, aspects, and advantages are described below with reference to the drawings, which are intended to illustrate, but not to limit, the invention. In the drawings, like reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout similar embodiments.

FIG. 1 illustrates a diagram showing a directed sound transmission system that may serve as an ultrasonic transducer that modulates audio information on an ultrasonic carrier, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment with particular suitability for use in a bar or restaurant, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective drawing of an embodiment that further supplements the embodiments described with respect to FIG. 3, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a drawing that illustrates a perspective view of a voice recognition system employing multiple parametric speakers for sending audio sound on an ultrasonic carrier to individuals identified by the voice recognition system, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective drawing showing a directed sound transmission system wherein patrons, wearing a wearable device, are tracked within a venue using an indoor positioning system, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic representation of the directed sound transmission system of FIG. 1, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing communication steps for sending a message to an individual or a group of individuals in a queue line, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing communication steps, for another embodiment, for sending a message to an individual or a group of individuals in a queue line, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the foregoing steps detailing an embodiment of communicating with a worker in a venue such as a bar or a restaurant, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of yet another embodiment illustrating the foregoing steps detailing an embodiment of communicating with a worker in a venue such as a bar or a restaurant, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 11 illustrates a block diagram of the directed message system having voice recognition, according to some embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Although certain embodiments and examples are disclosed below, inventive subject matter extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses and modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus, the scope of the claims appended hereto is not limited by any of the particular embodiments described below. For example, in any method or process disclosed herein, the acts or operations of the method or process may be performed in any suitable sequence and are not necessarily limited to any particular disclosed sequence. Various operations may be described as multiple discrete operations in turn, in a manner that may be helpful in understanding certain embodiments; however, the order of description should not be construed to imply that these operations are order-dependent. Additionally, the structures, systems, and/or devices described herein may be embodied as integrated or separate components.

For purposes of comparing various embodiments, certain aspects and advantages of these embodiments are described. All such aspects or advantages are not necessarily achieved by any particular embodiment. For example, various embodiments may be carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other aspects or advantages as may also be taught or suggested herein.

COMPONENT INDEX

110—directed sound transmission system

114—directed sound source

118—queue line

120—microphone

130—video camera

134—targeted individual

137—targeted individual

204—translation system

206—microphone system

210—queue line monitoring system

250—processor

260—memory

268—remote server

300—venue

301—controller

302—video display

310—sound pressure waves

312—subject

314—subject

315—antenna

318—table controller

320—table

402—wearable device

404—worker

420—indoor positioning system

440—patron

450—sound abatement system

702—voice recognition system

760—microphone

770—processor

780—memory

802—RFID tag

804—directional/parametric speakers

806—communication system

810—swivel

820—controller/processor

848—sound conditioner

860—memory

880—network

FIG. 1 illustrates a diagram showing a directed sound transmission system 110, which, in some embodiments, serves as an ultrasonic transducer that modulates audio information on an ultrasonic carrier, producing a modulated carrier signal. A pressure wave may be produced within a transmission medium according to the modulated carrier signal, which may demodulate the pressure wave striking a surface. In some embodiments, the directed sound transmission system 110 serves as an apparatus for directing sound waves restricted to a particular listener in a queue area (also known as a queue line 118, shown in FIG. 1, and used interchangeably with the queue area). As illustrated in FIG. 1, the directed sound transmission system 110 may include directed at least one sound source 114, located at positions along the queue line 118. A microphone 120 may be coupled to a video camera 130.

The video camera 130 may include any type of camera configured to capture video images. In some embodiments, the video camera 130 comprises a closed-circuit television system (CCTV) system 130, which, in many embodiments, is operable to control the sound transmission system 110. Modern CCTV systems are contemplated, which include CCTV systems having one or more: high definition cameras; dark fighter technology cameras; internal and external dome cameras; bullet camera; C-mount cameras; day/night camera; a pan/tilt/zoom (PTZ) cameras; thermal imaging cameras; infrared cameras; varifocal cameras; network cameras; discreet CCTV cameras; automatic number plate recognition ANPR) cameras; license plate reading (LPR) cameras; and CCTV systems having combinations of the preceding cameras.

Regarding FIGS. 1 and 6, which will be discussed later in the disclosure, as individuals pass through the queue line 118, sound may be directed to targeted individuals 134, 137 in the queue line 118 in connection with estimated locations as determined by the queue line monitoring system 210. In this manner, one or more individuals may be sent messages, via sound modulated over an ultrasonic carrier, throughout an experience while standing in a queue area/line. Queue line monitoring system 210 also serves to provide “gamification” of the process of waiting in line, thereby helping to blur the perception of time while in a queue (line).

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment with particular suitability for use in a bar or restaurant. In venue 300, having multiple video displays 302, and with attendant audio, a directed sound transmission system 110 may be implemented using a controller 301 coupled via antenna 315 to a number of directed sound source(s) 114 distributed within the venue 300. Controller 301 may control aspects of the directed sound transmission system 110 using a wireless link. Even while in a noisy environment, while watching a specific video display 302, subjects 312, 314 in venue 300 may listen (in connection with receiving sound pressure waves 310) to a selection of their choosing by selecting programs in connection with the table controller 318 on table 320. In some embodiments, the table controller 318 may have one or more microphones (not shown) for facilitating communications within the venue 300.

In some embodiments, a translation system 204, shown in FIG. 6 and discussed later in this disclosure, may be included in or coupled to controller 301 of the directed sound transmission system 110. Live translations of audio selections may be provided to subjects 312, 314 in a language of their choosing in connection with the translation system 204 performing translations locally or remotely using one or more processors programmed to translate language and synthesize speech for modulation on an ultrasonic carrier as disclosed herein.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective drawing of an embodiment that further supplements the embodiments described with respect to FIG. 2. A wireless link may be established through a wearable device 402 (shown in FIG. 3 as a noise-canceling headset), which is contemplated as wearable devices (e.g., tags, lanyard-worn devices, etc. worn by worker 404, such as a waiter or waitress) waiting tables 320 in a restaurant or bar.

In some embodiments, communication with worker 404 may be effectuated using a directed sound transmission system 110 as described concerning FIGS. 1 and 6 using an ultrasonic carrier. Wearable device 402 may provide a link to an indoor positioning system 420, which may be used for locating worker 404 within venue 300. An indoor positioning system 420 may include a Wi-Fi-based system, a proximity-based system, an acoustic system, an ultra-wideband system, and/or an infrared system.

Patron 440 (who may be standing or seated within an area in a venue 300) may place an order through worker 404 in connection with the indoor positioning system 420 locating worker 404 in the venue 300. In some embodiments, controller 301 facilitates communication with worker 404 in conjunction with the indoor positioning system 420 to cause a verbal request from patron 440 to reach worker 404 over a modulated ultrasonic carrier using a directed sound source 114. In some embodiments, the directed sound source 114 may mounted be on a swivel (not shown) configured to rotate toward a direction aimed at a designated location that worker 404 frequents or directly at the location determined for worker 404.

The position of worker 404 may be determined using a proximity-based system. One such system uses transponders, such as radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, which work with beacons, distributed within a venue 300 that wirelessly interacts with the RFID tags to calculate the location of the tags based on the signal strength of received signals from the RFID tags. In some embodiments, worker 404 may wear an RFID tag (not shown). In some embodiments, signals sent from the beacons (not shown), distributed within venue 300, impart energy to the RFID tags, which send their identification numbers and signal strengths back to the beacons. The beacons relay this information to a computer/server (not shown) from which the position location of worker 404 in venue 300 may be calculated.

In some embodiments, the position of worker 404 may be determined using a Wi-Fi-based system. Worker 404 may wear wearable device 402, which serves as a tag that contains a Wi-Fi transmitter (not shown) that may send communication packet information to a number of Wi-Fi access points (not shown) distributed within venue 300. The access points report the time and signal strength to a computer/server that may calculate the position of worker 404 based on time difference of arrival (TDOA) measurements.

An acoustic indoor positioning system 420 may also be used to locate worker 404 within venue 300. Ultrasonic pulses may be sent from wearable device 402, which can be used by indoor positioning system 420 to locate worker 404 in connection with directing message modulated on an ultrasonic carrier.

Infrared indoor location systems may also be contemplated for locating worker 404 to send a message modulated on an ultrasonic carrier. In these embodiments, infrared readers may be distributed throughout venue 300, and wearable device 402, worn by worker 404, may send pulses to the readers. Location position can be determined based on these pulses.

In some embodiments, worker 404 may be connected wirelessly to controller 301, which may forward communications wirelessly from patron 440 to wearable device 402, such as a headset. Table controller 318, as shown in FIG. 2, may be wirelessly linked to worker 404. Conversations may be had between patron 440 and worker 404 using a microphone (not shown) at table controller 318, wearable device 402 (having a microphone and at least one speaker), and the directed sound transmission system 110 as described herein.

The preceding embodiments may include a sound abatement system 450 implemented within or coupled thereto, the directed sound transmission system 110, and controller 301. More particularly, the embodiments described herein may use Gaussian white noise generated by a Gaussian noise generator (not shown) in the sound abatement system 450. Alternatively, the sound abatement system 450 may use a noise cancellation system (not shown) implemented within or coupled to sound abatement system 450.

Referring now to FIG. 4, a perspective view of voice recognition system 702 employing multiple parametric speakers (also referenced herein as directional speakers, as shown in FIG. 5) for sending audio sound on an ultrasonic carrier to individuals identified by the voice recognition system 702 is shown. Multiple microphones (each labeled 760) may be distributed throughout venue 300, which may be used to sample voices of individuals at venue 300. A protocol may be established before using the voice recognition system 702 that permits the sampling of an individual's voice audio. In some embodiments, a voice signature through which an individual may be identified is created. The voice signature and associated information may be stored in a memory coupled to the voice recognition system 702. Communications with recorded voice signatures may prefix a voice message for an intended message receiver within a venue 300. Other records, including patron position location, stored patron preferences, and patron historical data, may be maintained in a memory and accessed for various customer service purposes. For example, a patron 440 may enter the venue 300, and a voice sample may be taken. Microphone 760 may receive communications from a patron 400. In many embodiments, the voice recognition system 702 includes a processor 770, which produces an output, herein referenced as voice signature, used to identify an individual's voice using voice samples collected by microphone 760 and stored in memory 780. Memory 780, coupled to voice recognition system 702, may represent a local or remote storage device/system for use with voice recognition system 702. A patron 440 associated with a stored voice signature may be further associated with historical information such as past food and/or drink orders, past seating locations, past servers, detailed tip information, and spending history. This historical information may be stored in a relational database along with its associated voice signature. Such a system may be configured to permit the preceding data/information discussed herein to be shared over the network with other venues.

It may be desirable to deliver messaging with high accuracy in reaching a targeted message receiver. As such, in some embodiments, wearable RFID tags may be distributed to patrons in a venue to help to ensure accurate delivery of messages placed on an ultrasonic carrier.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective drawing showing a directed sound transmission system 110 wherein patrons 440 wearing a wearable device, such as RFID tag 802, are tracked within a venue 300 using an indoor positioning system 420, as shown in FIG. 4. Directional/Parametric speakers 804 may be distributed throughout venue 300. Some of the speakers 804 may lie on a swivel 810, which may be positioned (through a wireless or wired connection) via communication system 806, by controller/processor 820 to direct sound toward a particular patron 440 as determined in connection with the RFID tag 802 worn by the patron 440. In some embodiments, the RFID tag 802 comprises a lanyard RFID tag. In some embodiments, the lanyard RFID tag is a UHF 915 MHz lanyard RFID tag. In some embodiments, the RFID tag is any type of device capable of being tracked via RFID whereby the RFID tag is temporarily coupled to a patron.

The use of dynamic range compression (DRC) is contemplated for use with the previously described embodiments herein. DRC may be used to provide both downward and upward compression, thereby reducing the decibel level of sound above a given threshold level. In some cases, it may be used to increase the decibel level of quieter sounds.

Sound conditioners 848 may also be employed using the previously described embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 5. Accordingly, a sound conditioner 848 may adjust the gain of a parametric speaker 804 sounding a message on a modulated carrier as a function of frequency and input level. Alternatively, the sound conditioner 848 may adjust the gain, as a function of frequency and input level, before being input to a parametric speaker 804.

Higher frequency hearing loss may occur for a patron 440 or a worker 404 of an identified age category. A sound conditioner 848 may adjust the level of the higher frequencies to compensate for a range of possible frequency-dependent hearing loss.

Sound conditioner 848 is shown in FIG. 5 as being at least one of communicatively, electrically, and mechanically coupled to controller/processor 820. Memory 860, which may be connected locally or remotely to controller/processor 820, may contain specific hearing loss data for various age groups. In connection with directed sound from directional/parametric speakers 804, sound conditioner 848 may adjust the gain levels of a directional/parametric speaker 804 output accordingly to compensate for hearing loss as indicated with stored data on memory 860 as correlated with available profile information as discovered for a patron 440. Controller/processor 820 may be connected to network 880 through which patron data may be discoverable online. For instance, a patron 440 may register at venue 300. Online data may indicate the age of the patron 440 as being 50 years old. From average hearing profiles stored in memory 860 or accessed online, sound conditioner 848 can compensate for frequency-related hearing loss by adjusting gain levels of certain frequencies per a relevant age-related hearing profile.

FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic representation of a directed sound transmission system 110, such as the directed sound transmission system 110 shown in FIG. 1. In some embodiments, the directed sound transmission system 110 includes at least one directed sound source 114. A translation system 204 may be coupled to the directed sound transmission system 110. The translation system 204 may be coupled to a microphone system 206, including one or more microphones 120 for sampling sound at positions along the queue line 118, as shown in FIG. 1. In some embodiments, the directed sound transmission system 110 includes a queue line monitoring system 210. The queue line monitoring system 210 may be coupled to a processor 250 (e.g., an application processor) and a memory 260 having program instructions, that when executed by processor 250, causes calculation of a queue rate, associated with the queue line 118, which can be used to send directed sound from the directed sound transmission system 110, as described herein, to a target in the queue line 118. Queue line monitoring system 210 may also be used to monitor positions of individuals in the queue line 118 through video surveillance of the queue line 118 in connection with monitoring by at least video camera 130 (as shown in FIG. 1), which may be placed at various positions along queue line 118. In some embodiments, a queue rate of queue progress or, in some instances, a queue position is determined in connection with video surveillance, electronic monitoring of individuals in a queue line by non-video methods, and combinations of video and non-video monitoring. In some embodiments, memory 260 contains program instructions that, when executed by processor 250 (e.g., an open-source processor), cause the directed sound transmission system 110 to direct sound as described herein.

In some embodiments, processor 250 exists locally on a hardware system programmed according to program instruction downloaded to memory 260 from remote server 268. In some embodiments, processor 250 exists on a hardware system, located remotely from some elements of directed sound transmission system 110, and operates according to program instruction downloaded from remote server 268. The processor 250 may comprise a music processor.

In some embodiments, the microphone system 206 takes sound samples from various location positions along the queue line 118, shown in FIG. 1. Translation system 204 may determine languages spoken by individuals at those location positions in the queue line 118. In some embodiments, in connection with determining the queue rate associated with traffic in queue line 118, a message is sent to the targeted individuals 134, 137, or targeted locations in the language determined from the sound samples. Translation system 204, which may contain or may be coupled to one or more processors, may translate a message into a given language. Directed sound transmission system 110 may be used to send translated messages on a modulated ultrasonic carrier in the given language to targeted individuals or targeted locations along the queue line 118.

A queue line monitoring system 210 may contain a receiver (not shown), which in some embodiments receives location data from a wearable device (not shown) from individuals in the queue line 118. In some embodiments, the wearable device contains an active or passive radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, which emanates stored information in connection with stored battery power or in connection with an energy-imparting stimulus. An RFID system may be incorporated within or connected to the queue line monitoring system 210. Processor 250 may be programmed to calculate queue rates or position locations using the RFID tags with information from the RFID tags or information from the RFID tags combined with video surveillance of the queue line 118.

FIG. 7 illustrates a flowchart showing communication steps for sending a message to an individual or a group of individuals in a queue line 118, as shown in FIG. 1. Initially, at step 7000, a message is determined for dispatch. This message may, for example, be generated by a person or by a processor in a computer system. The message may be stored in a computer memory before dispatch. As queue line 118 is in motion, the targeted individual(s) to receive the message is (are) likewise in motion. It is advantageous to determine the position (by position, meaning location) of the individual(s) to receive the message and/or the position of the individuals in queue line 118 to direct a message on a modulated carrier accurately. Once the position/location of the targeted individual(s) to receive a message is determined, at step 7002, the message is dispatched as indicated at step 7004.

FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart showing communication steps, for another embodiment, for sending a message to an individual or a group of individuals in a queue line 118, as illustrated in FIG. 1. Initially, at step 8000, a message is determined for dispatch. This message may, for example, be generated by a person or by a processor in a computer system. The message may be stored in a computer memory before dispatch. As queue line 118 is in motion, the targeted individual(s) to receive the message is (are) likewise in motion. It is advantageous to determine the position (by position, meaning location) of the individual(s) to receive the message and/or the position of the individuals in queue line 118 to direct a message on a modulated carrier accurately. Determining the queue rate, as shown in FIG. 8 at step 8002, facilitates determining the position of the target(s) (individual(s)) to receive a message modulated on an ultrasonic carrier. Once the position/location of the targeted individual(s) to receive a message is determined, the message is dispatched as indicated in step 8004.

FIG. 9 shows a flowchart illustrating the foregoing steps detailing embodiments of communicating with a worker 404 in a venue 300 such as a bar or a restaurant. In some embodiments, at step 9000, a message is prepared for the worker 404 that may be spoken, for instance, into a microphone at table 320 in the bar or restaurant. The microphone's location is known and may be held in a memory for use by a processor for facilitating service to table 320 by worker 404. The location of worker 404 may be determined, at step 9002, by one of the indoor positioning methods noted above. In connection with parametric speaker systems distributed throughout the bar or restaurant venue, the message may be directed at worker 404 over a parametric speaker on an ultrasonic carrier, at step 9004. In some embodiments, worker 404 may respond to a patron 440 using a microphone from a station connected to the table area from which service is requested. In some embodiments, a worker 404 may use a noise-canceling headset while still receiving a message from a patron 440 delivered over an ultrasonic carrier, at step 9006.

FIG. 10 illustrates a flowchart of another embodiment illustrating the foregoing steps detailing an embodiment of communicating with a worker 404 in a venue 300 such as a bar or a restaurant. A message is prepared which may be spoken, by a patron 440, into, for instance, a microphone at table 320 in the bar or restaurant, at step 10000. The message may be dispatched to a worker 404 or workers at specific locations within a bar or restaurant using the directed sound transmission system described above, at step 10002. For instance, orders may be received directly in the kitchen or at the bartending area. A directed sound transmission system 110 may note the location of the message sender, and the worker 404 may respond to the patron 440, at step 10004.

When directed sound is received as a spoken message, it may be desirable to employ a voice recognition system such that the recipient of a message may readily determine the speaker. In addition, a directed speaker system may add the identity of the party speaking as an introductory announcement before the message being conveyed.

FIG. 11 illustrates a block diagram of the directed message system having voice recognition as described above. In some embodiments, a patron 440 speaks a message for delivery to a worker 404, at step 11000. The directed message system may determine the location of the worker 404, at step 11002. Using voice recognition, the system may be configured to identify the speaker, at step 11004. In some embodiments, as previously discussed in this disclosure, the message is transmitted over an ultrasonic carrier, at step 11006.

In some embodiments, the directed sound system (also known as a parametric sound system) may be used to send subliminal messages to a patron in a queue line, bar, restaurant, or relevant venue. Some of the messaging may be designed to be barely audible or at frequencies likely heard by some and not others. Demographic information may dictate the type of message for delivery and/or the time of delivery. In a bar or restaurant setting, drink specials may be subliminally announced over a parametric sound system based on demographic information accessed online or collected for a patron or a particular group of patrons.

Live location maps detailing the location of patrons in a venue may be constructed by a processor receiving information, as noted herein. The processor may be programmed accordingly, and it may represent one of the processors disclosed herein. Voice, demographics, and other personal information can be used collectively to establish live location mapping for a venue. As disclosed herein, messaging over a parametric speaker system can be used with the live location mapping to establish targets for messaging and messages selected in connection with the targeting.

The disclosure also includes various embodiments as further described. In some embodiments, patrons standing in a queue line may receive messages via a directed sound over a parametric speaker system to deliver an audio message modulated on an ultrasonic carrier. A processor may determine a queue rate (i.e., the rate of queue line movement) for a queue line. The queue rate is reflective of the speed of the line and knowing this parameter can help determine where specific patrons are in a line to better facilitate the directing of a message to them over the parametric speaker system.

Additionally, in some embodiments, patrons standing in a queue line may receive messages via a directed sound over a parametric speaker system to deliver an audio message modulated on an ultrasonic carrier. A processor may determine a queue rate (i.e., the rate of queue line movement) for a queue line. The queue rate is reflective of the speed of the line and knowing this parameter can help determine where specific patrons are in a line to better facilitate the directing of a message to them. In addition to understanding and using the queue rate, visual surveillance of the queue line can help identify the location of an individual or individuals in a queue line. A processor may be programmed to process data from the visual surveillance information and determine that individual's location or those individuals using queue rate information and visual surveillance data.

Even still, in some embodiments, patrons standing in a queue line may receive messages via a directed sound over a parametric speaker system for delivery of an audio message modulated on an ultrasonic carrier. Patrons may wear an RFID tag. A positioning system associated with the queue line may determine a patron's location, in connection with the worn RFID tag, at a given time to facilitate the directing of a message to the patron over the parametric speaker system.

In some embodiments, patrons standing in a queue line may receive messages via a directed sound over a parametric speaker system to deliver an audio message modulated on an ultrasonic carrier. A processor may determine a queue rate (i.e., the rate of queue line movement) for a queue line. The queue rate is reflective of the speed of the line and knowing this parameter can help determine where specific patrons are in a line to better facilitate the directing of a message to them over the parametric speaker system. Further, sound samples of the patrons may be taken at one or various points along the queue line. Such may be accomplished, for instance, using one or more directional microphones. A processor may process the sound samples to determine an associated language with the particular sound samples to identify the spoken language of a speaking patron in the queue line. One or more of the location identification techniques, as disclosed herein, may be used to determine the location of a patron in the queue line, and messages may be delivered to the patron in the spoken language determined for that patron.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, patrons standing in a queue line may receive messages via a directed sound over a parametric speaker system to deliver an audio message modulated on an ultrasonic carrier. Voice sound samples may be taken from patrons at a given position or given positions in the queue line. In some embodiments, patrons may be identified based on the sound samples using a voice recognition system. Messages may be directed at a specific patron over the parametric speaker system, as identified through the voice recognition system.

Additionally, in some embodiments, patrons standing in a queue line may receive messages via a directed sound over a parametric speaker system to deliver an audio message modulated on an ultrasonic carrier. Voice sound samples may be taken from patrons at a given position or given positions in the queue line. Patrons may be identified based on the sound samples using a voice recognition system. Messages may be directed at a specific patron over the parametric speaker system, as identified through the voice recognition system. The delivery of those messages to the particular patron may be further facilitated by using position location for the patron in connection with queue rate determination and/or an RFID tag worn by the patron.

Also, in various embodiments, patrons in queue lines may receive messages via a directed sound over a parametric speaker system to deliver an audio message modulated on an ultrasonic carrier. Voice sound samples may be taken from patrons at a given position or given positions in the queue line. Patrons may be identified based on the sound samples using a voice recognition system. Messages may be directed at a specific patron over the parametric speaker system, as specified through the voice recognition system. The delivery of those messages to the particular patron may be further facilitated by using position location for the patron in connection with queue rate determination and/or an RFID tag worn by the patron. Speech recognition, as disclosed herein, may be used to determine the speaking language of a patron, and messages may be sent to that patron in the speaking language determined for that patron.

In connection with the embodiments described herein, online information may be accessed to determine relevant demographics for a patron standing in a queue line. Message delivery methods used in conjunction with one or more patron location determination methods described herein may be used to facilitate the delivery of messages to a patron in a relevant language and with sound conditioning identified as applicable for that patron based on those relevant demographics.

In some embodiments, patrons standing in a queue line may receive messages via a directed sound over a parametric speaker system to deliver an audio message modulated on an ultrasonic carrier. Patrons may wear an RFID tag or carry an RFID key card. Information collected in connection with issuing an RFID tag/key card or accessing information online as determined from the RFID tag/key card may be used to direct specific messages to patrons standing in line. Some of these messages may be related to demographic information determined for a particular patron. Other personal information specified for the patron may also be used to direct messages to that patron. For instance, online information accessed concerning a patron in an amusement park setting may identify a 40-year-old female from France. Further demographic details accessed may show that the 40-year-old French patron may be interested in the location of vendors selling cappuccino coffee at 1:00 PM. Accordingly, that patron may be specifically targeted to receive cappuccino messages at certain times while standing in line. A positioning system associated with the queue line may determine a patron's location, in connection with the worn/carried RFID tag/key card, at a given time to facilitate the directing of a message to the patron over the parametric speaker system. Consequently, a queue rate processor used for determining a queue rate may be coupled/tied to a GPS, an RFID reader, or both to determine the location of a message recipient.

In some embodiments, one-way and two-way direct/live communication may occur between workers/entertainers and guests standing in a queue. For example, the voice of Peter Pan™ may be used to converse with a guest who's in line for a Peter Pan™-themed ride at Disneyland. In some instances, an actual person may speak with someone standing in line. In other cases, a pre-recorded message may be sent to patrons standing in line.

Even still, in some embodiments, individuals in a queue line may be targeted to receive subliminal messaging based on demographic or other information in connection with the examples disclosed herein using the parametric speaker system herein. The demographic or other information may be accessed online or stored in a memory-holding demographic and/or personal data.

Furthermore, in connection with the embodiments described herein, online information may be accessed to determine relevant demographics for a patron standing in a queue line. Message delivery methods used in conjunction with one or more patron location determination methods described herein may be used to facilitate delivery of messages to a patron in a relevant language and with sound conditioning identified as applicable for that patron based on the appropriate demographics. That demographic information may include age information. The age information may be correlated with specific audio frequencies identify as challenging to hear as regarded for a particular age group. A sound conditioner may condition messages for those patrons matching a specific demographic to compensate for age-related hearing decline.

In some embodiments, patrons in a bar or restaurant setting may receive directed audio using a parametric speaker system connected with a venue having several display monitors. The delivery of this directed audio may be facilitated by multiple parametric speakers distributed throughout a venue.

Various embodiments include a venue having a parametric sound system that may accommodate a patron contacting a waiter or waitress using that system. In connection with an indoor positioning system, a waiter or waitress may be located within an establishment. The speakers of the parametric sound system may be used and/or physically directed to send sound over an ultrasonic carrier to the waiter or waitress as guided by the indoor positioning system.

In some embodiments, ultrasonic waves modulated according to a message may be intentionally bounced off specific surfaces to better facilitate the sound traveling to specific places. Consequently, sound may effectively “travel” silently through the air until it hits a surface.

Additionally, in some embodiments, a venue having a parametric sound system may accommodate patrons contacting a waiter or waitress using that system. In connection with an indoor positioning system, a waiter or waitress may be located within an establishment. The speakers of the parametric sound system may be used and/or physically directed to send sound over an ultrasonic carrier to the waiter or waitress as guided by the indoor positioning system.

Some embodiments include a venue having a parametric sound system that may accommodate patrons contacting a waiter or waitress using that system. In connection with an indoor positioning system, a waiter or waitress may be located within an establishment. The speakers of the parametric sound system may be used and/or physically directed to send sound over an ultrasonic carrier to the waiter or waitress as guided by the indoor positioning system. The waiter or waitress may respond to the patron using headphones connected by a wireless link to a speaker.

Also, in some embodiments, patrons in a bar or restaurant setting may receive directed audio using a parametric speaker system in connection with a venue having several display monitors. The delivery of this directed audio can be facilitated by multiple parametric speakers distributed throughout a venue. One or more processors may translate audio associated with the display monitors into the language of a patron or patrons. One or more speech synthesizers may provide translated audio as delivered by the parametric speaker system as disclosed herein.

In some embodiments, a venue having a parametric sound system may accommodate patrons contacting a waiter or waitress using that system. In connection with an indoor positioning system, a waiter or waitress may be located within an establishment. The speakers of the parametric sound system may be used and/or physically directed to send sound over an ultrasonic carrier to the waiter or waitress as guided by the indoor positioning system. Sampled sounds for table locations at a bar or restaurant may be used to identify patrons within that venue. Distributed microphones within a venue may sample sound information to allow a processor to establish live location maps for the patrons within a venue. The waiter or waitress may respond to the patron using headphones connected by a wireless link to a speaker.

According to some embodiments, a live location map detailing the location of patrons within a venue may be constructed by a processor receiving information, as noted herein. The processor may be programmed accordingly, and it may represent one of the processors disclosed herein. Voice, demographics, and other personal information can be used collectively to establish live location mapping for a venue. As disclosed herein, messaging over a parametric speaker system can be used with the live location mapping to establish targets for messaging and messages selected in connection with the targeting. In view of the foregoing, the parametric sound system, as disclosed herein, may send multiple messages in the manner described herein to multiple patrons in a venue. Those messages may reflect demographic data, personal preferences, and preferences established during a visit to an establishment. Consequently, alcohol consumption can be monitored and limited for a patron based on alcohol orders for an evening within the establishment, thereby limiting dram shop law violations wherein a commercial vendor may be held liable for injuries and damages based on the sale of alcohol to an inebriated person.

Additionally, according to some embodiments, a live location map detailing the location of patrons within a venue may be constructed by a processor receiving information, as noted herein. The processor may be programmed accordingly, and it may represent one of the processors disclosed herein. Voice samples taken from patrons within an establishment may establish a voice signature for a patron. Voice signature, demographic, and other personal information can be used collectively to establish live location mapping for a venue. As disclosed herein, messaging over a parametric speaker system can be used with the live location mapping to establish targets for messaging and messages selected in connection with the targeting. In view of the foregoing, the parametric sound system, as disclosed herein, may send multiple messages in the manner described herein to multiple patrons in a venue. Those messages may reflect demographic data, personal preferences, and preferences established during a visit to an establishment. Consequently, alcohol consumption can be monitored and limited for a patron based on alcohol orders for an evening within the establishment. The voice signature and other demographic and personal information collected during a patron visit may be stored in a memory (online or locally) for future reference and/or use.

Dynamic range compression (DRC) may be implemented with the parametric speaker embodiments described herein. DRC may be used to provide both downward and upward compression, thereby reducing the decibel level of sound above a given threshold level. In some cases, it may be used to increase the decibel level of quieter sounds. The DRC may be used to limit harmful noise and/or to compensate for hearing loss.

White Gaussian noise sound conditioning techniques may be implemented with the parametric speaker embodiments described herein. As well, noise-canceling methods may be implemented with the parametric speaker embodiments described herein.

The foregoing disclosure may be implemented in a setting such as the United Nations. Parametric speakers may direct sound to specific individuals/seating locations without significantly adding to the ambient noise of the environment. Each party, receiving directed sound from a parametric speaker, may be located proximate to the parametric speaker. The parametric speaker may receive a wireless signal having a modulated carrier according to one or more of the following systems: a radio frequency system; a code divisional multiple access (CDMA) system; a frequency divisional multiple access (FDMA) system; a time division multiple access (TDMA) system; an orthogonal frequency division system; an orthogonal frequency division multiple access system; an infrared system; a Wi-Fi system; a Bluetooth® system; and combinations thereof.

Entities at the United Nations generally address the forum via translators. A software application for a processor programmed to translate languages from one language to another may be employed at each parametric speaker location, at the location of each party presenting, or through a mobile device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, etc.) of each receiving location. Given the potential hearing damage associated with headphones, it may be advantageous to receive translated communications without the need for headphones and in a manner that does not significantly increase ambient noise levels. In some embodiments, systems may implement speech synthesis to convey the translated communications to the party intended for the communications.

In some embodiments, the disclosure includes a method for communications comprising receiving a message, wirelessly using radio frequency signals at a mobile device, demodulating the message at the mobile device, and translating audio information in the message from a first language to a second language. In some embodiments, the method includes modulating the transmission on an ultrasonic carrier to produce a modulated ultrasonic carrier and directing the modulated ultrasonic carrier to an intended receiver through a parametric speaker.

Another communication method may include translating audio information from a first language to a second language, wirelessly receiving, at a mobile device and via radio frequency signals, a message containing the audio data in the second language, and demodulating the message at the mobile device. In some embodiments, the method includes modulating the message on an ultrasonic carrier to produce a modulated ultrasonic carrier and directing the modulated ultrasonic carrier, through a parametric speaker, to an intended receiver.

In some embodiments, a communication method comprises wirelessly receiving, via radio frequency signals, a message containing audio information, demodulating the message, translating the audio data from a first language to a second language. In some embodiments, the method includes modulating the message on an ultrasonic carrier to produce a modulated ultrasonic carrier and directing the modulated ultrasonic carrier, through a parametric speaker, to an intended receiver.

The disclosure also includes a system having a speaker comprising a receiver, the receiver being operable to receive wireless signals from the group consisting of radiofrequency (RF) signals, infrared signal, microwave signals, and any combination thereof. The system may also include a demodulator, the demodulator being operable to demodulate wireless signals, and an ultrasonic modulator.

In some embodiments, a method of providing focused beam directional sound comprises selecting one or more audio messages determined in connection with demographic information, modulating the one or more audio messages with ultrasonic carrier signals to produce one or more modulated ultrasonic carrier signals, determining the location of one or more targets using an indoor positioning system, and directing one or more ultrasonic pressure waves, representative of the one or more modulated ultrasonic carrier signals, through a transmission medium, at the one or more targets. In connection with the one or more ultrasonic pressure waves reaching the one or more targets, the one or more modulated ultrasonic carrier signals may demodulate. The one or more audio messages may include a subliminal message. In some embodiments, the indoor positioning system comprises a voice recognition system.

The method may further comprise using dynamic range compression (DRC) to provide compression of a received message sent by way of the one or more ultrasonic pressure waves. In some embodiments, the method further comprises translating the one or more audio messages to one or more audio messages of a predetermined language.

The indoor positioning system may comprise an ultrawide-band indoor positioning system. In some embodiments, the indoor positioning system is a proximity-based indoor positioning system. The indoor positioning system may include an infrared indoor positioning system. In some embodiments, the indoor positioning system is an acoustic indoor positioning system. The one or more audio messages may be selected based on age-related demographic information.

Interpretation

None of the steps described herein is essential or indispensable. Any of the steps can be adjusted or modified. Other or additional steps can be used. Any portion of any of the steps, processes, structures, and/or devices disclosed or illustrated in one embodiment, flowchart, or example in this specification can be combined or used with or instead of any other portion of any of the steps, processes, structures, and/or devices disclosed or illustrated in a different embodiment, flowchart, or example. The embodiments and examples provided herein are not intended to be discrete and separate from each other.

The section headings and subheadings provided herein are nonlimiting. The section headings and subheadings do not represent or limit the full scope of the embodiments described in the sections to which the headings and subheadings pertain.

The various features and processes described above may be used independently of one another or combined in various ways. All possible combinations and subcombinations are intended to fall within the scope of this disclosure. In addition, certain methods, events, states, or process blocks may be omitted in some implementations. The methods, steps, and processes described herein are also not limited to any particular sequence, and the blocks, steps, or states relating thereto can be performed in other sequences that are appropriate. For example, described tasks or events may be performed in an order other than the order specifically disclosed. Multiple steps may be combined in a single block or state. The example tasks or events may be performed in serial, parallel, or some other manner. Tasks or events may be added to or removed from the disclosed example embodiments. The example systems and components described herein may be configured differently than described. For example, elements may be added to, removed from, or rearranged compared to the disclosed example embodiments.

Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” “may,” “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include. In contrast, other embodiments do not include certain features, elements, and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without author input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, and so forth. Also, the term “or” is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Conjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may be either X, Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z to each be present.

The term “and/or” means that “and” applies to some embodiments and “or” applies to some embodiments. Thus, A, B, and/or C can be replaced with A, B, and C written in one sentence and A, B, or C written in another sentence. A, B, and/or C means that some embodiments can include A and B, some embodiments can include A and C, some embodiments can include B and C, some embodiments can only include A, some embodiments can include only B, some embodiments can include only C, and some embodiments can include A, B, and C. The term “and/or” is used to avoid unnecessary redundancy.

The term “adjacent” is used to mean “next to or adjoining.” For example, the disclosure includes “the at least one directed sound source is located adjacent a head of the user.” In this context, “adjacent a head of the user” means that at least one directed sound source is located next to the user's head. The placement of the at least one directed sound source in a ceiling above the user's head, such as in a vehicle ceiling, would fall under the meaning of “adjacent” as used in this disclosure.

While certain example embodiments have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the inventions disclosed herein. Thus, nothing in the foregoing description is intended to imply that any particular feature, characteristic, step, module, or block is necessary or indispensable. Indeed, the novel methods and systems described herein may be embodied in various forms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form of the methods and systems described herein may be made without departing from the spirit of the spirit the inventions disclosed herein.

DIRECTED SOUND TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS AND METHODS USING POSITION LOCATION

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