Abstract: A wireless communication system for use in aircraft includes a wireless headset having at least one ear cup with a housing. A first ultra wideband transceiver is disposed in the ear cup housing. A base station includes a second ultra wideband transceiver. The second ultra wideband transceiver wirelessly communicates with the first ultra wideband transceiver.

Abstract: A classroom sound amplification system adapted for providing information aiding at diagnosing possible erroneous or inappropriate conditions or configuration of the system is disclosed. The system comprises a microphone device converting a voice to a sound signal and connecting to a sound processing device processing the sound signal and generating a processed sound signal, and a speaker device connecting to the sound processing device and converting the processed sound signal to a processed voice. The microphone device, the sound processing device, the speaker device and one or more A/V-devices are connected to or form part of the control device allowing the control device to collect operational information concerning the operation and/or status of devices of the system by monitoring predefined operational a parameters at various points in time.

Abstract: A plurality of directional sounders located in a region being monitored can be synchronously and sequentially activated in various patterns to establish an audibly defined exit route from the region. Emitted audio, from a respective sounder, can be different than the audio emitted by other activated sounders to provide a path and direction for evacuation to individuals in the vicinity of the exit route.

Abstract: A ship includes a network, integrating services for security and control services and/or for multimedia and infotainment services on board the ship. The service-integrating network includes services for security-related systems as well as services for non-security-related systems. The conventional situation for network solutions on board cruise ships is characterised by a number of service functions and individual networks distributed over the entire ship. In at least one embodiment, the service-integrating network is embodied as a redundant ring both for services for security-relevant systems as well as for services for non-security-related systems. As such, the number of security functions and service functions and the number of individual networks can be advantageously reduced to a common high-security network.

Abstract: A speaker assembly for a structural pole is provided, as well as a method for attaching a speaker assembly to a structural pole. The speaker assembly is provided with an elongated housing mounted to banner brackets that are fixed to the structural pole. The housing is sized to provide an aesthetic appearance that corresponds to a banner attached to the banner brackets. A speaker, or a plurality of speakers are provided within the housing for transmitting acoustic vibrations to a corresponding environment.

Abstract: An end-of-line module provided at the end of the line of an audio circuit provides a load in response to a test signal. The load is detectable by an announcement control system so that a fault indication may be triggered in the event the announcement control system does not sense the end-of-line module as being connected to the audio circuit and detects an interruption in the audio circuit. In addition, the end-of-line module may include an over-temperature sensor or protection device to prevent the audio circuit from exceeding a predetermined limit, for example, a temperature level assigned to insure compliance with fire, safety and other standards or specifications. A fault or other indication may be reported to or sensed by the announcement control system and may be further processed in a manner appropriate for the application and/or facility having the announcement control system.

Abstract: A distributed acoustic reverberator including a network audio connection between at least two separated locations is provided. When a sound is emitted at one of the locations, the reverberator provides a reverberation signal to that location with a procedure. An algorithm implemented by the distributed reverberator includes such a procedure for each location. The delay of the network connection is an input to the procedures. Thus, a shared and acoustically consistent space including the separated locations is provided. The reverberator may include procedures for providing a reverberation signal to one location responsive to sound at another location.

Abstract: A public address system installed in a building or other region being monitored can communicate with a regional fire detection system. Responsive to information received from the fire detection system as to developing dangerous conditions, a control unit for the public address system can adaptively create one or more evacuation routes for a region associated with a developing condition. One or more loud speakers in the region can be used to communicate a preferred evacuation route to individuals in the region. The route can be dynamically altered as the condition varies over time.

Abstract: The present invention is a stereo PA amplifier that is mounted inside a desktop computer. It is powered by the computer's 12-volt power supply and receives its input via a stereo mini cable from the computer's audio line out. Standard 8-ohm, non-powered speakers are then hooked up directly to the board via its speaker connector board. The volume of the present invention is adjusted by the computer's volume controls. The device eliminates the need for an external stereo amp and external mixer, which thereby reduces the installation time, cost, interconnecting cables, and the space needed for the overall computer system, while at the same time providing quality sound.

Abstract: A directed audio system, a network interface communicatively coupled with a network, and a controller to receive, via the network interface, an estimate for a location from a locating device communicatively coupled with the network, and to cause the directed audio system to direct an audio signal based at least in part on an estimate for the location received from the locating device.

Abstract: A sound field control apparatus which is capable of adjusting the number of outputs as required. The sound field control apparatus is comprised of a master device, and a plurality of salve devices serially connected in cascade to the master device. In the master device, a picked-up sound signal input section inputs picked-up sound signals from a plurality of microphones. A signal processing section generates reflected sound signals from the input picked-up sound signals. A cascade output terminal outputs the reflected sound signals. In each of the slave devices, a cascade input terminal inputs the generated reflected sound signal, a plurality of signal processing sections correspond to a plurality of speakers and each adjust sound characteristics of the input reflected sound signals and generate and output signals to the corresponding speakers. A cascade output terminal directly outputs the input reflected sound signals.

Abstract: System and method for automatically broadcasting voice-based prompt warnings toward an embarkation and/or disembarkation location at which passengers such as students and others may or will be present. The method is multi-model providing voice messages during an approach mode, a stop mode and a standby mode. Recorded human voice messages are employed for the prompt and are the recorded voices of one or more people having voice characteristics generally recognizable by the passengers to an extent effective to supplement the function of the immature prefrontal cortex.

Abstract: A portable sound unit is shown having a central case and one or more speakers. Each speaker has tongue rails around a portion of its circumference. The central case includes an openable lid permitting access to sound equipment contained within the central case. The central case has openings at either end when the lid is closed and grooves inside a portion of the central case near each opening. The grooves receive the tongue rails on the speaker when the lid is open. Upon positioning a speaker in the grooves in the central body, the lid may be closed, thereby securing the speakers to the central case. When the speakers are separated from the central case and electronically coupled to the sound equipment, the opened lid may serve as a lectern.

Abstract: A technique is provided for reducing power consumption of an internally powered console in an audio system through frequency based signal routing. A system employing the technique includes a base unit having an interface for receiving a signal representative of acoustic information. The base unit includes a filter system for splitting the signal into low-frequency and high-frequency component signals. The low-frequency signal is routed to a first audio driver for reproduction. The high-frequency signal is routed to a device that includes a second audio driver. By removing the need to reproduce the low-frequency portion of the acoustic information, the power consumption of the device is reduced.

Abstract: One or more input channels are selected from among a plurality of input channels, and signals of the selected one or more input channels are mixed into a first output channel. A particular input channel to be excluded from the plurality of input channels is set as desired. Then, a setting is made such that the signals of the selected one or more input channels, having the signal of particular input channel excluded therefrom, are mixed into a second output channel. To the first output channel are set such signal paths as to allow mixing of all the signals of the selected one or more input channels. To the second output channel are set such signal paths as to allow mixing of the signals of the selected one or more input channels with the signal of the particular input channel excluded thereform.

Abstract: A measurement system and method combine an audio announcement system with a plurality of spaced apart wirelessly coupled devices which evaluate speech intelligibility of audio output from loudspeakers of the audio announcement system. Processing can take place at some or all of the devices as well as at a common control element. Evaluations can be based on use of a method which maps to a Common Intelligibility Scale.

Abstract: A sound device for carrying out a homogenous sound cover for a public addressed area includes an electroacoustic source network (1), wherein each electroacoustic source (1) diffuses a version delayed by a delay (3), filtered by a filter (4) and amplified by the device input signal amplifier (5). The network is substantially rectilinear and vertical, angles ? which are formed by the emitting axes of the electroacoustic sources (1) and a normal to the network are selected such that ?n>?n?1, wherein n is the index of the electroacoustic sources (1) numbered in ascending order from the top of the device to the bottom thereof and the delays (3) interact with the angles ? in such a way that the device generates a wavefront (6) whose shape corresponds to the desired sound cover of the public addressed area.

Abstract: A method of processing audio information for broadcast to an audience can include changing first audio information from occurring in a first time interval to occurring in a second time interval to provide time-changed audio information. The time-changed audio information can be combined with second audio information that is responsive to the first audio information to provide broadcast audio information.

Abstract: A programmable event driver/interface has timekeeping and scheduling functions and tone and voice capabilities. A software-based interface allows for direct communication with individual annunciators and dynamic grouping of annunciators by zone. System state of health can be ascertained periodically for each annunciator, displayed in a visual summary, stored, and time tagged. Both tones and audio signals such as voice and radio can be commanded to be output by individual annunciators as well as by zones and by all annunciators at once. Schedules, including time-of day, day-of week, and date for annunciator outputs can be programmed for any or all annunciators.

Abstract: A horn tone system, including a speaker module configured to broadcast audio; a CPU module in communication with the speaker module and configured to control and store audio information; and a communication module in communication with the CPU module and configured to receive control and audio information.

Abstract: The present invention receives a voice signal from an input device; then the voice signal is processed through an amplifier; and, then, the voice signal is transmitted along an indoor electrical power line with power frequency carrier to be heard by using speakers.

Abstract: A method of processing audio information for broadcast to an audience can include changing first audio information from occurring in a first time interval to occurring in a second time interval to provide time-changed audio information. The time-changed audio information can be combined with second audio information that is responsive to the first audio information to provide broadcast audio information.

Abstract: A wireless audio distribution system may have a wireless transmitter, responsive to a plurality of audio input channels, for transmitting signals carrying the audio, a receiver, responsive to the transmitted signals for selecting one or more of the audio input channels to be reproduced in accordance with local setting selectors at the receiver. An additional audio source, such as a microphone, can be selectively used by for example the driver to talk on the cell phone or to make announcements to passengers via the wireless audio distribution system in accordance with a master settings selector which may be used to override local settings such as audio channel or volume selection.

Abstract: A signaling system may include two subsystems that share a common wiring backbone and provide public awareness functions. The two subsystems may be a public address system and a master/slave clock system. Remote rooms at the tail end of the wiring backbone include a speaker and a slave clock. The speakers are in communication with a control device through the wiring backbone. The slave clocks are in communication with another control device at the head end of the wiring backbone. The master/slave clock system superimposes its DC power signal and a time correction signal on the wiring backbone. Each slave clock interfaces the wiring infrastructure through a center tap of a speaker transformer which allows the slave clock to be powered and corrected via the speaker wiring infrastructure.

Abstract: The invention relates to loudspeaker systems or loudspeaker columns as used in public address systems and at (pop) concerts. Such systems heretofore possess a frequency-dependent coverage angle and strong second and third order side lobes. The invention describes formulae of the voltage to be applied to the separate loudspeakers of the loudspeaker column, which makes it possible to realize the constant coverage angle over the entire frequency range and to suppress the side lobes to a far-reaching extent.

Abstract: A power amplifier for a parametric loudspeaker system which utilizes switch-mode power conversion to increase efficiency. The power amplifier is configured to coordinate the switching frequency of the amplifier with the carrier frequency of the parametric loudspeaker system, so a lower switching frequency may be used even though the power amplifier must amplify ultrasonic signals. The amplifier can be further optimized to counteract the reactance of the transducer load at the carrier frequency.

Abstract: A system and method for generating, transmitting and distributing audio signals. The system and method may include an array having a plurality of microphones and a plurality of speakers as well as a first processor disposed proximate the array. The system and method can also have a second processor disposed remotely from the array and communicatively coupled with the array, at least one remotely located device having at least one microphone and at least one speaker and one or more remotely located speakers. Also, there may be an audio signal that is generated by one of a microphone on the array and a microphone on the at least one remotely located device, the location of the generation of the audio signal determined by one of the first processor and the second processor, generated audio signal transmitted to at least one of the speakers on the array, the at least one speaker on the remotely located device and the one or more remotely located speakers.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a drive-in movie theater and/or events center preferably located on top of one or more parking garages located at a shopping mall or other similar complex. The drive-in theater preferably has a short range radio broadcast system that can send radio signals to cars on the parking garage, wherein movie-goers can listen to the movie sound tracks on their own car stereos/radios. When needed, the present system contemplates having more than one transmitter, each operating at the same or different frequency, so that the effective service range of each transmitter can be made within limited guidelines set by the FCC. The drive-in theater can be combined with an events center and connected to a shopping mall where access to restaurants and retail establishments can be provided.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing a centralized speaker system that allows multiple speakers connected to a central amplifier speaker line to be monitored and controlled from a central location via a master/slave protocol. The centralized speaker system comprises a central station for selectively communicating at least one of a command and an information signal to a destination device. A tone generator is adapted to communicate an activation tone to the destination device. An amplifier, which is colocated with the central station, is adapted to amplify the signals to the destination device.

Abstract: An addressable smart speaker for use in a fire alarm system connects to and receives messages over a network, has plural taps for selecting audio power. In response to a command, a selector in an addressed smart speaker selects a tap to select a particular audio power.

Abstract: The wireless microphone information displaying apparatus comprise a plurality of wireless microphones having information respectively assigned thereto, a wireless microphone supporting device having a plurality of supporting portion for supporting the microphones, respectively, and a plurality of connecting devices for electrically connecting the microphones with the unit. Each of the microphones contains a wireless microphone control unit. The supporting device comprises a unit control unit, a display panel for displaying the information assigned to the microphones. The microphone information is displayed on the display panel, when the microphones are supported o the supporting device.

Abstract: An evacuation system, which provides enhanced operational control to an operator. In an embodiment, each voice point module capable of playing evacuation messages is implemented as an addressable unit, and an operator can cause different messages to be played on different voice point modules using a central station. The central station enables the operator to play live messages by capturing the voice of the operator and forwarding the voice in the form of voice data. Protocols such as H.323 may be supported on both voice point modules and the central station such that control data can be sent from the central station to the voice point modules. The control data can be used as a basis to provide features such as changing the volume level, storing messages locally in the voice point modules, specifying specific stored message to be played, etc.

Abstract: An array of speakers are fed from a single source of audio frequency sound but each speaker transmits the sound delayed by an amount which is determined by the distance between a particular speaker and a selected region in space, so that sound from each speaker constructively adds at the selected region in space. A sufficiently large number of speakers are employed so that when sound reaches a region in space at the same moment in time the audio volume will be increased substantially over sound in regions where there is not constructive interference. This simple technique allows audio frequency sound to be heard in only selected regions within the room or other auditory space. Multiple regions with multiple soundtracks can be created by simultaneously playing variously delayed soundtracks over each of the speakers in the array.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for transmitting sound generated at an event to those in attendance at the event is shown. This is accomplished by a system that collects an acoustic audio signal generated at a first location within a fixed space. The system also conditions the audio signal without introducing audio signals generated from outside said first location. Finally, the system transmits the conditioned audio signal to a receiver worn by at least one of a plurality of individuals within the aforementioned fixed space. This is particularly useful in settings such as a football stadium, a basketball arena, a hockey arena, a baseball stadium, an auditorium, a performance area in a restaurant or cruise ship, a soccer arena, a boxing ring or wrestling ring, an automotive racing track, or any other space within which a performance takes place.

Abstract: A sound emitting device for providing at least one new sonic or subsonic frequency as a by-product of emitting a waveform of at least two ultrasonic frequencies whose difference in value corresponds to the desired new sonic or subsonic frequency. The device includes a parametric emitting perimeter or plurality of emitter segments positioned around a central open section. This open section is structured with a diagonal width greater than a cross-sectional diagonal of the parametric emitting perimeter. An ultrasonic frequency signal source and sonic/subsonic frequency generator are coupled together to a modulating circuit for mixing an ultrasonic frequency signal with an electrical signal corresponding to the at least one new sonic or subsonic frequency. The modulator output is coupled to the emitting perimeter which comprises ultrasonic frequency emitting material for propagating the mixed waveform into air for demodulating the waveform to generate the at least one new sonic or subsonic frequency.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for allowing an operator of a transit vehicle to make public address announcements to passengers internal and external to the vehicle. The safety of the vehicle and passengers is maintained through providing a hands-free directional microphone having noise canceling characteristics. The microphone is used as an input device for receiving an audio signal and provides the signal to a processing module that converts the signal into a digital signal. The digital signal is then processed by a digital signal processor to cancel undesirable noise common to a transit vehicle. The noiseless signal can then be converted into an analog signal and recorded within the memory of the public address system where, upon needed, the signal can be transferred to an output device such as a speaker system internal or external to the vehicle. After playback, the recorded message can also be easily repeated by means of a repeat switch.

Abstract: A control method for controlling the sound effect system, comprises implanting a control code into a sound effect data that is transmitted to a sub woofer speaker. Then, the sound effect data with the control code is transmitted to the sound effect system. Next step is to control speakers of the sound effect system by means of the control code. Wherein a data transmission frame between the sound effect system and a computer system for controlling the sound effect system comprises a plurality of bit cells, wherein the data transmission frame includes: a sound effect data transmitted by a data bit; and a control code transmitted by a control bit.

Abstract: The new speaker system includes masking capabilities, as well as optional paging capabilities and has a speaker mounted so as to be upwardly directed on a support plate or rack within a ceiling plenum, with an optional low profile backbox. An optional paging speaker is mounted within the backbox downwardly facing on the support rack.

Abstract: An improved light weight, portable public address system configured with high fidelity omni-directional and high wattage directional speakers for both indoor and outdoor use with a wide variety of sound inputs assembled in a self-contained, compact housing. Optional systems provide for the remote deployment of up to two speakers and the use of a remote wireless microphone. Improved options include a unique compact configuration that allows for modular construction of all components for plug and play operation and rapid field replacement; a weatherproof housing for operation in inclement weather, and a tape player to provide prerecorded programming.

Abstract: An audio production, satellite uplink and radio broadcast studio system includes an audio console having a supporting meter bridge and editing unit operative under the control of a central or main computer. The audio console is coupled to a plurality of analog audio information sources including a plurality of microphones, a plurality of telephone lines, a radio broadcast tuner and a plurality of audio tape drives. The audio console is further coupled to a plurality of digital information sources including a pair of ISDN lines, a plurality of compact disc players, a mini-disc player and a remotely operated digital audio recorder. The computer is coupled to the audio console via an interface and sound card. The audio console is coupled to a plurality of program outputs having different program format capabilities and to a distribution amplifier operative to control the various remotely operated recording apparatus within the system.

Abstract: A message announcement system for broadcasting announcements at predetermined locations has an autonomous announcement computer at each predetermined location, wherein a plurality of event announcements and associated event identifiers are stored therein and, upon receipt of an event announcement command, the announcement computer broadcasts a particular event announcement at the location. A master computer is in communication with each announcement computer for adding, deleting or editing event announcements. This arrangement permits a modular system, whereby autonomous announcement computers, along with their associated public address systems and sign systems, may be added or removed as stations are added or removed. The system is also capable of broadcasting live announcements at each location.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for allowing an operator of a transit vehicle to make public address announcements to passengers internal and external to the vehicle. The safety of the vehicle and passengers is maintained through providing a hands-free directional microphone having noise canceling characteristics. The microphone is used as an input device for receiving an audio signal and provides the signal to a processing module that converts the signal into a digital signal. The digital signal is than processed by a digital signal processor to cancel undesirable noise common to a transit vehicle. The noiseless signal can then be converted into an analog signal and recorded within the memory of the public address system where, upon needed, the signal can be transferred to an output device such as a speaker system internal or external to the vehicle. After playback, the recorded message can also be easily repeated by means of a repeat-switch.

Abstract: The invention relates to an information distribution system, especially to an audio information distribution system including one or more local systems, each being intended for personal use or for the use of a small group. In order for the system to be adapted as well as possible to the current state of the user, the user is connected as a part of the system so that his or her current state affects the way information is supplied to him/her. Thus, the user is part of the system and part of the control circuit which affects the information flow. The state of the user is evaluated by measuring at least one somatic phenomenon from him/her, and the content of the information and/or presentation parameters are changed on the basis of the measurements.

Abstract: A first local controller (30) having a device port coupled to a device control port for communicating with a device to be monitored or controlled, a primary local port for coupling to a first interface port (90) of an interface unit, and a secondary local port.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for providing audio information to a user. The method and apparatus provide information in a manner consistent with a spatial metaphor, allowing a user to visualize and more easily navigate an application. The information is preferably presented to the user as a background audio prompt that indicates the environment and a foreground audio prompt that indicates the alternatives available to the user.

Abstract: The invention relates to loudspeaker systems or loudspeaker columns as used in public address systems and at (pop) concerts. Such systems heretofore possess a frequency-dependent coverage angle and strong second and third order side lobes. The invention describes formulae of the voltage to be applied to the separate loudspeakers of the loudspeaker column, which makes it possible to realize the constant coverage angle over the entire frequency range and to suppress the side lobes to a far-reaching extent.

Abstract: An intra-vehicle communication system includes a surface configured to be mounted to a vehicle interior proximate a first occupant wherein the surface is further configured to display an image of a second occupant of the vehicle. The system further includes an intercom including a microphone supported in close proximity with the surface and a speaker operably coupled to the microphone. In one embodiment, the intercom is further configured to at least partially mute existing audio output from a stereo system.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for allowing an operator of a transit vehicle to make public address announcements to passengers internal and external to the vehicle. The safety of the vehicle and passengers is maintained through providing a hands-free directional microphone having noise canceling characteristics. The microphone is used as an input device for receiving an audio signal and provides the signal to a processing module that converts the signal into a digital signal. The digital signal is than processed by a digital signal processor to cancel undesirable noise common to a transit vehicle. The noiseless signal can then be converted into an analog signal and recorded within the memory of the public address system where, upon needed, the signal can be transferred to an output device such as a speaker system internal or external to the vehicle. After playback, the recorded message can also be easily repeated by means of a.repeat-switch.

Abstract: To provide a loudspeaker broadcasting system and a loudspeaker broadcasting apparatus which can perform a loudspeaker broadcasting of appropriate contents at each block without reducing sound clearness. Bi-directional speakers 1 which performs sound-reinforcement having high intelligibility, and fire detecting sensors 3 which detect fire occurrence in a tunnel 10a, 10b and send fire occurrence signals are placed in the tunnel 10a, 10b in the tunnel extending direction. In an emergency such as a fire, emergency broadcasting is performed through each bi-directional speaker 1 at each of the predetermined blocks 5 in the tunnel 10a, 10b. The emergency broadcasting is different in contents at each block, and it is alternately performed at the adjacent blocks 5. Further, the frequency components having a long reverberation time is removed from the loudspeaker broadcasting through the bi-directional speaker 1.

Abstract: A audio enhancement system and method of use with a sound system for producing primary sound from at least one main loudspeaker located at a main position. The audio enhancement system comprises at least one wireless transmitter, time delay circuitry, and plural augmented sound producing subsystems. Each sound subsystem is a portable unit arranged to be carried by a person located remote from the main loudspeaker and includes a wireless receiver and an associated transduce device, e.g., a pair of stereo headphones. The transmitter broadcasts an electrical signal which is representative of the electrical input signal provided to the main loudspeaker. The broadcast signal is receiver by the receiver and is demodulated and amplified to drive the transducer so that it produces augmented sound substantially in synchronism with the sound arriving from the main loudspeaker.