Intelligent headphones are equipped with four microphones that can actively suppress surrounding noise and measure the noise level inside the headphones. Measurement of the noise inside the headphones is a safety feature that ensures that the worker is not exposed to a damaging noise level.
Our Task and Challenge
Compact Size and Extended Battery Lifetime
The main task was to equip the existing headphones with an embedded system capable of running the Google Voice recognition kit and ensure that the product could run the whole working shift.
The system was designed as a demonstrator to evaluate the possibilities of technologies based on Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Solution
Artificial Intelligence Allows Rapid Adoption in the Environment
A system based on the Google voice recognition technology actively listens to the surrounding environment and interprets the activity for the user. For example, the user might set the noise suppression to such a level that he cannot hear the fire alarm or notification siren from a broken machine. The headphones detect these signals and inform the user in a human voice about the event.
Consilia designed hardware with the i.MX7 processor and battery solution that was embedded into the existing headphones. Then, we handed over the platform to our partner, eMan, who ported the Google Voice recognition package into the processor.
The biggest challenges we had to overcome were thermal management when the headphones were being charged and the space constraints given by the existing enclosure.
Business Value
Enhanced User Experience
These headphones are one of just a few types of headphones that implement not only active noise suppression but also artificial intelligence (AI) technologies that enhances user experience.
The hardware design focuses on scalability and power consumption so that it can balance the battery lifetime and computing power finely.
How It Is Made
Small Computer with Extensive Performance
After discussing it with the customer, we used NXP i.MX7 Dual Processor with 4GB eMMC and 512 MB DDR3. As it is a common standard today, the SOM (System on Module) is also fitted with interfaces like WiFi – 802.11 ac and Bluetooth.
Audio interfaces (microphones, speakers) are connected to a standard audio chipset.
Client
World Leader Producing Personal Safety Equipment
Our client provides products, software, and connected solutions that improve productivity, workplace safety, and asset performance for their customers across the globe.
We designed the product in 2018, including hardware and software integration.
Next Solutions
Since the foundation of Consilia in 2004, we have finished and supported dozens of projects.
Services Used in this Case
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