Locating the source of a sound

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of multiple microphones connected to a computer to determine the location of a gunshot sound. The computer knows the speed of sound and the time of arrival of the sound at each microphone, but not the exact time or frequency of the sound. The question asks for suggestions on an algorithm or minimum number of microphones needed. The suggested approach is to use three non-collinear microphones to create three intersecting lines, as two microphones only create a line of possible locations. The process is referred to as multilateration.
  • #1
apepi
2
0
Not sure which section to post this in, but here goes. It's entirely my own words - might look like homework but it's for electronics.
Multiple microphones are connected to a computer. A sudden sound, like a gunshot, goes off in the distance. These microphones are separated from each other by a known distance, and the time of arrival of the gunshot sound is known for all microphones.
The computer also knows the speed of sound, but it does not know the exact time the noise was made, nor the original frequency, ruling out Doppler Effect calculations.
Any suggestions for an algorithm or minimum amount of microphones? I've been looking for methods, like sound ranging etc, but I've come to naught.
Thanks for any help
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
I think it's three microphones - not co-linear.
IIRC: two will give you a line of possible locations. The third will give you three lines. They should intersect.

If the gunshot was at point G, and you have two microphones at P and Q, then a shot heard at t_P and t_Q at each detector started out on a line so that the path difference is c|t_P-t_Q|.
 
  • #3
Multilateration it is, then. Thanks for the help
 

1. How do you determine the direction of a sound?

To determine the direction of a sound, you can use a method called sound localization. This involves using both ears to compare the arrival time and intensity of the sound at each ear. The brain then uses this information to determine the direction of the sound.

2. Can you locate the source of a sound in a noisy environment?

Yes, it is possible to locate the source of a sound in a noisy environment. Our brain uses various cues such as the arrival time, intensity, and pitch of the sound to determine its source. In a noisy environment, our ears can still pick up these cues and help us locate the source of the sound.

3. How accurate is sound localization?

The accuracy of sound localization depends on various factors such as the intensity and frequency of the sound, the distance between the source and the listener, and the listener's hearing ability. In general, humans have the ability to localize sounds with an accuracy of about 2-3 degrees.

4. Can the source of a sound be located in 3D space?

Yes, the source of a sound can be located in 3D space through a process called binaural localization. This involves using both ears to determine not only the direction but also the distance and elevation of the sound source. This ability is crucial for our survival as it helps us locate potential threats or sources of food.

5. Are there any technological advancements for sound localization?

Yes, there are several technological advancements for sound localization, such as using multiple microphones to create a virtual microphone array, using artificial intelligence algorithms to improve accuracy, and using head-related transfer functions (HRTFs) to simulate 3D sound localization. These advancements have applications in fields such as virtual reality, augmented reality, and hearing aids.

Similar threads

B What sound frequencies can pass through a hole in a wall?
    • Mechanics
Replies
31
Views
724
Sound wave intensity (dB) and sound processing
    • Mechanics
Replies
3
Views
1K
Where Can I Find Doppler Effect Sound Samples for Specific Scenarios?
    • STEM Educators and Teaching
Replies
1
Views
1K
Calculate Sound Directionality w/ Equation & CAD
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
16
Views
2K
I How is the damping of sound (over distance) affected by air properties?
    • Classical Physics
Replies
8
Views
1K
What would teleportation sound like?
    • Science Fiction and Fantasy Media
Replies
7
Views
3K
I Relationship between frequency and power for sound?
    • Mechanics
Replies
9
Views
1K
Find the distance between objects and sound source
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
3K
Understanding Interference of Sound Experiment
    • Optics
Replies
4
Views
2K
Assistance with Sound Wave Reduction/Amplification Experiment
    • Mechanics
Replies
4
Views
797

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top