{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854358","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9854358","title":"System and method for mitigating audio feedback","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2015-07-23T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H04R","G10L","H04M","H04R","H04R"],"num_claims":34,"abstract":"A system and method for mitigating audio feedback may calculate a smoothed frequency spectrum of an audio signal. Previously detected candidate feedback tones may be obtained. Candidate feedback tones may be determined responsive to a frequency spectrum of the audio signal, the smoothed frequency spectrum and the previously detected candidate feedback tones. One or more signal characteristics associated with the audio signal and feedback coefficients associated with the candidate feedback tones may be obtained. The feedback coefficients may be modified responsive to the one or more signal characteristics. Actionable feedback tones may be determined responsive to the associated feedback coefficients exceeding a respective feedback threshold. Feedback suppression coefficients associated with each of the determined actionable feedback tones may be generated and may be utilized to suppress the actionable feedback tones."},"analysis":{"summary":"The System and Method for Mitigating Audio Feedback patent presents an innovative solution to the pervasive problem of audio feedback in various applications. The core innovation lies in its dynamic and adaptive approach to identifying and suppressing feedback tones, enhancing audio quality and user experience across diverse devices and platforms. Audio feedback, also known as the Larsen effect, has long plagued sound systems, causing disruptive squeals and howls that degrade audio clarity. Traditional methods to combat feedback often involve manual adjustments or static filters, which can negatively impact the overall audio quality. This patent introduces a dynamic, adaptive solution that automatically identifies and mitigates feedback, ensuring optimal audio performance. The system utilizes a smoothed frequency spectrum analysis, combined with previously detected candidate feedback tones, to accurately pinpoint problematic frequencies. The technology's ability to modify feedback coefficients in response to signal characteristics sets it apart from conventional feedback suppression techniques. This adaptive approach allows the system to handle varying audio conditions effectively, maintaining a consistent level of performance. The business value of this patent lies in its potential to improve audio clarity and reduce feedback in a wide range of applications, including live sound reinforcement, teleconferencing, hearing aids, and mobile devices. This can lead to enhanced communication, entertainment, and assistive hearing technologies. The market opportunity is significant, as the demand for high-quality audio continues to grow across various industries. The system's adaptability makes it a versatile solution for diverse audio environments, further expanding its market potential.","layman_explanation":"The System and Method for Mitigating Audio Feedback patent addresses a common problem: the annoying squealing or howling sound that occurs when audio feedback happens. This is especially problematic in scenarios like live performances, conference calls, and even with hearing aids. Existing solutions often involve manually adjusting sound levels or using static filters, which can degrade the overall audio quality.\n\nThis invention works by automatically detecting and suppressing these feedback sounds. It analyzes the audio signal to identify the specific frequencies causing the feedback. Then, it intelligently reduces the volume of those frequencies without affecting the other sounds. Think of it like a smart noise cancellation system, but instead of blocking out all noise, it only targets the specific frequencies causing the feedback.\n\nThis matters because it leads to clearer, more enjoyable audio experiences. For businesses, it means more productive conference calls and higher-quality audio in presentations. For consumers, it means better sound from their devices and less frustration with audio equipment. The potential market impact is significant, as it improves the user experience across a wide range of audio applications. \n\nFuture applications could involve even more sophisticated audio processing techniques, leading to even better feedback suppression. As audio technology continues to advance, this patent lays the groundwork for more seamless and enjoyable audio experiences. The investment implications are promising, as the technology has the potential to be integrated into a wide range of audio products and services.","technical_analysis":"The System and Method for Mitigating Audio Feedback patent introduces a novel approach to adaptive audio processing, designed to address the persistent issue of audio feedback. The system architecture involves several key stages: audio signal input, frequency spectrum analysis, candidate feedback tone detection, feedback coefficient modification, actionable feedback tone determination, and feedback suppression. Initially, the system calculates a smoothed frequency spectrum of the audio signal, providing a stable representation for further analysis. Previously detected candidate feedback tones are obtained to enhance the system's ability to track and respond to dynamic audio conditions. Candidate feedback tones are then determined based on the frequency spectrum of the audio signal, the smoothed frequency spectrum, and the previously detected candidate feedback tones. This step involves sophisticated signal processing algorithms, such as Fast Fourier Transforms (FFTs) and adaptive filters, to accurately identify potential feedback frequencies. One or more signal characteristics associated with the audio signal and feedback coefficients associated with the candidate feedback tones are obtained. These signal characteristics may include amplitude, frequency, and phase information, while the feedback coefficients represent the strength of the feedback at each candidate frequency. The feedback coefficients are modified responsive to the one or more signal characteristics. This adaptive approach allows the system to handle varying audio conditions effectively, maintaining a consistent level of performance. Actionable feedback tones are determined responsive to the associated feedback coefficients exceeding a respective feedback threshold. This threshold-based decision-making ensures that only relevant frequencies are targeted for suppression, minimizing any adverse effects on the desired audio signal. Finally, feedback suppression coefficients associated with each of the determined actionable feedback tones are generated and utilized to suppress the actionable feedback tones. This suppression is typically achieved using adaptive filters that attenuate the feedback frequencies while preserving the integrity of the desired audio signal.","business_analysis":"The System and Method for Mitigating Audio Feedback patent presents a significant business opportunity within the audio technology market. The core value proposition lies in its ability to dynamically and effectively suppress audio feedback, a persistent problem across various applications, including live sound reinforcement, teleconferencing, hearing aids, and mobile devices. The market opportunity is substantial, driven by the increasing demand for high-quality audio experiences in both professional and consumer settings. The global audio equipment market is projected to continue growing, with a significant portion attributed to technologies that enhance audio clarity and reduce noise. This patent offers a competitive advantage by providing a more adaptive and precise solution compared to traditional feedback suppression methods. Traditional methods often involve static filters or manual adjustments, which can compromise the overall audio quality. This innovation's dynamic approach allows it to adapt to varying audio conditions, maintaining optimal performance without sacrificing fidelity. The revenue potential is multifaceted. Licensing the technology to audio equipment manufacturers, teleconferencing platform providers, and hearing aid companies represents a direct revenue stream. Furthermore, integrating the technology into proprietary audio products can enhance their market appeal and command a premium price. The business model can also include offering software-based solutions for mobile devices and computers, providing a recurring revenue model through subscriptions or one-time purchases. Strategic positioning involves targeting key partnerships with industry players to accelerate market adoption. Collaborating with leading audio equipment manufacturers can ensure seamless integration of the technology into their products. Partnering with teleconferencing platform providers can enhance the user experience and differentiate their services. ROI projections are promising, given the potential for significant cost savings in terms of reduced technical support, improved user satisfaction, and increased market share. The technology's ability to enhance audio quality and reduce feedback can lead to higher customer retention and positive word-of-mouth, further driving revenue growth.","faqs":null,"topics":["audio feedback mitigation","signal processing","audio engineering","feedback suppression","patent","system","method","mitigating"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Audio Feedback Mitigation - System and Method Patent US-9854358","description":"Discover how the System and Method for Mitigating Audio Feedback patent eliminates audio feedback. Full patent analysis, claims, and technical details.","keywords":["audio feedback mitigation","signal processing","audio engineering","feedback suppression","patent","patent US-9854358"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854358","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854358","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"System and method for mitigating audio feedback\" (US-9854358). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854358","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854358","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9854358","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-30T23:24:25.375Z"}