NL-section, 2011 June 10. Hearing Aid (Hoorbril) using array technology
General meeting of the members of the Dutch section:
Lectures on array technology:
Two lectures on array technology were given. The first one was presented by Rinus Boone from Delft University of Technology, who focused on end-fire microphone arrays. Basic techniques for focusing and beamforming were explained. As an example, the concept of the hearing glasses was presented.
The second presentation was given by Evert Start from Duran Audio. His talk was related to the DSP-controlled focusing of subwoofer loudspeaker arrays. By combining both summing and differential beamforming, hyper(cardioid) and dipole patterns can be formed. For live performances, these setups can help to reduce the sound pressure level on and behind the stage significantly.
Guided tour and demonstrations:
After the lectures, guided tours through the new factory of Duran Audio were given. It was possible to see several parts of the production lines, from the development department to the final assembly of loudspeaker array systems. In parallel, there were demonstrations of the hearing glasses as a supplement to the first lecture. Furthermore, a subwoofer array with changeable directivity was presented outside. Even moderate weather could not keep the interested visitors from walking around in the drizzling rain to listen to the capabilities of the system.
Barbecue:
At the end, a nice barbecue was generously sponsored by our host. There was ample opportunity to meet and discuss the impressions of the day.
