Squarehead has developed a groundbreaking new microphone system capable of isolating a single conversation within a crowded room. The Squarehead’s Audioscope system allows users to zoom in on specific areas of interest, making it an invaluable tool in various noisy environments.
For example, imagine a heated argument breaking out between players during a sports match, with the crowd erupting in shouts and boos. With the Audioscope system, you can zoom in to hear exactly what the players are saying to each other, despite the overwhelming surrounding noise. Watch the video after the jump to see it in action.
Innovative Technology Behind Audioscope
The Audioscope is the brainchild of two Norwegian physicists, Morgan Kjølerbakken and Vibeke Jahr. This innovative system is built using 325 microphones arranged in a carbon-fiber disk, with a wide-angle camera positioned at the center of the disk. This unique setup allows the Audioscope to capture audio from a wide area and then focus on specific points of interest.
Once an area is pinpointed using the camera, the Audioscope calculates the distance of that spot from each of the microphones. It then corrects for any delay and synchronizes the audio from all 325 microphones. This sophisticated process ensures that the system can isolate and amplify the desired audio, making it possible to hear a single conversation amidst a cacophony of noise.
Applications and Impact
The potential applications for the Audioscope system are vast and varied. In addition to enhancing the experience of sports matches by allowing fans and officials to hear on-field conversations, the technology could be used in other noisy environments such as concerts, conferences, and public events. For instance, during a live concert, the Audioscope could focus on a specific musician’s performance, providing a unique auditory experience for the audience.
Moreover, the Audioscope could have significant implications for security and surveillance. In crowded public spaces like airports or train stations, security personnel could use the system to monitor specific conversations or sounds, potentially identifying threats or suspicious activities more effectively. This capability could enhance public safety and improve response times in critical situations.
The Audioscope’s ability to isolate audio in noisy environments also holds promise for research and development. Scientists and engineers could use the system to study sound patterns and behaviors in various settings, leading to new insights and innovations. For example, researchers could analyze crowd dynamics at large events or study the acoustic properties of different environments.
Sport matches will never be the same again. More information about the system can be found on the Squarehead website.
Via Gadget Lab
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