Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a microphone system that can isolate and track different voices in the same room. This breakthrough technology could soon allow for the ability to “mute” specific individuals.
While there are currently various headphones and earphones available on the market that offer noise reduction features, the technology developed by the researchers takes it a step further. It can isolate specific conversations and mute others, all within the same room.
The project’s challenge was to locate, isolate, and modulate each vocal sound according to its source in a noisy room. To achieve this, a series of small microphones were placed around the room. Each microphone is responsible for covering a specific speech zone and automatically tracks its various sources of speech. These microphones, connected to each other via Bluetooth, are equipped with motors and wheels, functioning like robotic “acoustic swarm” units. They are capable of tracking the positions of multiple speakers in a room and separating their words from the rest of the soundscape.
So far, the researchers have tested these robotic units in offices, living rooms, and kitchens with groups of three to five people. Their next step is to develop robots that can move freely around the entire room, not limited to tables as it currently is. Ultimately, they aim to create active and mute zones within a room, allowing for some conversations to be heard perfectly while others remain muted.
The development of this microphone system opens up possibilities for various applications. In situations where multiple conversations are taking place in the same room, this technology could prove extremely useful. It could enhance privacy during sensitive discussions or allow individuals to focus on one conversation while tuning out others.
While there is still more work to be done to make this technology commercially viable, the progress made by the researchers is promising. As technology continues to advance, it is exciting to imagine the potential impact and applications of this innovative microphone system.
– AFP Relaxnews
Credit: The Star : Tech Feed
