Machine Learning Enhances Sound Experience in Vehicles
In an effort to transform the audio experience in vehicles, Swedish company Dirac Research has successfully combined machine learning with advanced digital correction technology. By leveraging their extensive expertise in improving sound quality across various domains, Dirac has developed a groundbreaking system that optimizes audio performance in the challenging environment of vehicle interiors.
The interiors of vehicles pose unique challenges when it comes to delivering high-quality sound. With multiple speakers directed at different positions and a variety of surfaces with different acoustic properties, the resulting misaligned sound waves often lead to subpar audio quality. While equalization can help improve sound, it cannot address the timing errors between speakers.
Dirac Research has dedicated two decades to perfecting sound experiences in different settings, including homes, theaters, and mobile devices. With each vehicle model having its own distinct characteristics, the company had to create an advanced acoustic measurement system that combines patented algorithms with a vast dataset of measurements. This innovative approach resulted in the creation of accurate acoustic fingerprints that depict how each speaker’s output is affected by the in-cabin environment and how it is perceived at each seat location.
The utilization of microphones in automobile audio design is not new. However, Dirac’s system takes it a step further by utilizing 16 microphones per speaker channel per seating position. This meticulous approach ensures the collection of highly accurate and usable data. For instance, in a four-seat car with 20 speakers, the system captures an astonishing 1,280 measured impulse responses.
The integration of machine learning into Dirac’s digital correction technology allows vehicles to intelligently combine their speaker outputs for optimized performance. By teaching vehicles to adapt their speaker configurations, this innovative system significantly enhances the sound experience for occupants.
Dirac Research’s achievement in revolutionizing audio quality in vehicles holds immense promise. With their advanced technology and expertise, they have paved the way for an elevated audio experience in the modern automobile. Whether it is for entertainment, communication, or simply enjoying music, this groundbreaking development ensures that vehicle interiors are no longer a hindrance to high-quality sound.
