System and method for beam formation using a microphone array

摘要

"Beam Formation System and Method Using a Microphone Set". The ability to combine multiple audio signals captured from the microphones of a microphone array is often used in beam forming systems. Typically, beam forming involves processing the output audio signals from the microphone array in such a way that the microphone array acts as a highly directional microphone. In other words, beam formation provides a 'listening beam' that points to a particular sound source while often filtering out other sounds. A 'generic beamformer' as described herein automatically draws a set of beams (i.e. a beam formation) covering a desired angular space range within a predetermined search area. The beam design is a function of the geometry and operating characteristics of the microphone, as well as the models of ambient noise around the microphone array. An advantage of the generic beamformer is that it applies to any microphone array geometry and microphone type.