Method and apparatus for detecting and controlling the orientation of a virtual microphone

摘要

A method for controlling the orientation of a virtual microphone, which is carried out on an electronic device, includes combining and processing signals from a microphone array to create a virtual microphone; receiving data from a sensor of the electronic device; determining, based on the received data, a mode in which the electronic device is being used; and based on the determined mode, directionally orienting the virtual microphone. Possible use modes include a) a stowed use mode, in which the criterion is the electronic device being substantially enclosed by surrounding material; b) a handset (alternately, private) use mode, in which the criterion is the electronic device being held proximate to a user; and c) a handheld (alternately, speakerphone) use mode, in which the criterion is the electronic device being held away from a user.

主权项

1. An electronic device comprising:
a microphone array comprising a plurality of microphones; a sensor; and a processor configured to:
combine and process signals from the microphone array to create a virtual microphone;determine a use mode of the electronic device;based on output of the sensor, determine an orientation of the electronic device relative to an orientation of a head of a user; andadjust an orientation of the virtual microphone based on the determined use mode and on the orientation of the electronic device relative to the orientation of the head of the user.