US006052336A

United States Patent (19) 11 Patent Number: 6,052,336

Lowrey, III (45) Date of Patent: Apr. 18, 2000
54 APPARATUS AND METHOD OF 5,889,870 3/1999 Norris ....................................... 381/77
BROADCASTING AUDIBLE SOUND USING
ULTRASONIC SOUNDAS A CARRIER OTHER PUBLICATIONS

76 Inventor: Austin Lowrey, III, c/o Austin Lowrey “In The Audio Spotlight” by David Schneider; Scientific
ASSociates 7212 Reservation Dr., American, News and Analysis (Oct. 1998); pp. 40–41.
Springfield, Va. 22153
Appl. No.: 09/070,850 Primary Examiner Daniel T. Pihulic
Attorney, Agent, or Firm-Staas & Halsey LLP
Filed: May 1, 1998
57 ABSTRACT
Related U.S. Application Data An ultraSonic Sound Source broadcasts an ultrasonic Signal
Provisional application No. 60/046,803, May 2, 1997. which is amplitude and/or frequency modulated with an
Int. Cl." ........................... H01M 29/02; H04R 25/00 information input Signal originating from an information
U.S. Cl. ........................... 367/139; 367/137; 367/134 input Source. If the Signals are amplitude modulated, a
Field of Search ..................................... 367/137, 139, Square root function of the information input Signal is
367/134; 381/77; 455/46; 607/56 produced prior to modulation. The modulated Signal, which
may be amplified, is then broadcast via a projector unit,
References Cited whereupon an individual or group of individuals located in
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
the broadcast region detect the audible Sound.
5,159,703 10/1992 Lowery ..................................... 455/42 21 Claims, 4 Drawing Sheets

100 TWO-PROJECTOR SYSTEM 105 TWO-PROJECTOR SYSTEM EXPOSING

EXPOSING CROWD CROWD (MOBILE)

115 SYSTEMPARAMETERS (PRELIMINARY) 110 ONE-PROJECTOR SYSTEM

TWO-PROJECTOR SYSTEM (MAN-PORTABLE) EXPOSING FLEEING SUBJECT
SOUND SOURCE: OUDSPEAKERICRYSTAL
FREQUENCY: -30 kHz FLUIDIC OSCILLATOR
SOUND INTENSITY: 100db(MAX) AT50 mtr. (GALTON WHISTLE) SOUND
TOTAL SOURCE POWER (SOUND): 0.14 WATTS SOURCE
MINIMUM FOCAL SPOT SIZE: 1.3 mtr.
ONE-PROJECTOR SYSTEM
SOUND SOURCE: FLUIDIC OSCILLATOR (WHISTLE)
FREQUENCY: ~100 kHz
SOUND INTENSITY: 100 db (MAX) AT10 mtr.
TOTAL SOURCE POWER (SOUND): O2 WATTS
MINIMUM FOCAL SPOT SIZE: 53 Cm
U.S. Patent Apr. 18, 2000 Sheet 2 of 4 6,052,336

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CINQOS

COINSWHTQ INQOS BOH[\S NO|WT0C] CINQOS EOHITS

U.S. Patent Apr. 18, 2000 Sheet 3 of 4 6,052,336

FIG. 3

87
COMPUTER

89

91
AMPLIFER

93
PROJECTOR
 6,052,336
1 2
APPARATUS AND METHOD OF In one aspect of the embodiment, the apparatus further
BROADCASTING AUDIBLE SOUND USING includes a circuit producing the Square root of the informa
ULTRASONIC SOUNDAS A CARRIER tion signal, a modulator amplitude modulating the ultrasonic
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED
Signal with the Square root of the information signal, a first
APPLICATION
Sound Source outputting the information Signal, and a Second
Sound Source outputting the ultraSonic Signal.
This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional In another aspect of the embodiment, the information
application Ser. No. 60/046,803, filed May 2, 1997, entitled Signal is a voice Signal from, for example, a microphone.
A METHOD FORTRANSMITTING AUDIBLE SOUNDS
THROUGH THE AIR USING ULTRASONIC SOUNDAS
In another embodiment of the invention, there is provided
a method of modulating an ultraSonic Signal with a Square
A CARRIER by Austin Lowrey, III and incorporated by root of an information signal to produce a modulated Signal,
reference herein.
and projecting the modulated Signal to a listener.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION In one aspect of the embodiment, the method further
1. Field of the Invention 15
includes producing a Square root Signal from the information
The present invention is directed to an apparatus and Signal, modulating the ultraSonic Signal with the Square root
method of broadcasting an audible Sound, and in particular, of the information Signal to produce the modulated Signal,
to an apparatus and method of broadcasting an audible amplifying the modulated Signal, and transmitting the ampli
Sound using an ultraSonic Sound as a carrier modulated by fied modulated Signal.
the audible Sound as an input signal. In another aspect of the embodiment, the modulating is an
2. Description of the Related Art amplitude modulation.
Over the past few years, Several Situations have arisen in In yet another embodiment of the present invention, there
is provided an apparatus including a first modulator fre
military and civil areas where crowds, with or without quency modulating a first ultraSonic Signal with a first input
leaders, have posed a Serious problem to Government forces. 25 Signal to produce a first modulated Signal, an ultrasonic
For example, in Somalia, leader General Aideed would Signal Source providing a Second ultraSonic Signal, and a
almost never remain outside unless Surrounded by a crowd broadcasting System, coupled to the first modulator and the
of Sympathizers. Troops attempting to seize or capture the ultraSonic Signal Source, broadcasting the first modulated
leader would have to engage the crowd, probably killing or Signal and the Second ultraSonic Signal to a listener.
injuring Some, in order to get close enough to capture him. In one aspect of the embodiment, the apparatus further
Hence, forces were not likely to attempt to capture the includes a first projector projecting the modulated Signal, a
leader.
Second projector projecting the Second ultraSonic signal, a
Another example is the U.S. invasion of Haiti, where a first input Sound Source outputting the first input signal, a
ship with troops was Sent to perform various actions that Second ultraSonic Signal Source providing the first ultrasonic
would have been helpful to the population living there. The 35 Signal, a Second modulator amplitude modulating the Second
landing of these troops was, however, opposed by a crowd ultraSonic Signal with a Second input signal to produce a
on the dock. Hence, in order to land, the crowd on the dock Second modulated Signal, a Second input Sound Source
must first be disposed of. Again, crowd members would outputting the Second input Signal, and an amplifier ampli
likely be hurt, resulting in the troops deciding not to act. fying the amplitude modulated Signal.
Still another example is any situation where an angry 40 In another aspect of the embodiment, the first and Second
crowd gathers. In this situation, the crowd frequently turns ultraSonic Signals produce a difference Signal for the listener
to looting and destruction of property. It is a constant in an audible range of the listener.
challenge for, for example, police to disperse Such a crowd In yet another aspect of the embodiment, the input signal
without causing casualties, perhaps fatal ones. is a Square root of an information Signal.
All of these examples have a common theme, namely a 45
In Still another aspect of the embodiment, the information
crowd or leader that one would like to influence Such that
they leave or Stop their hostile activities. Signal is a voice from, for example, a microphone.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In still another embodiment of the present invention, there
is provided a method of frequency modulating a first ultra
It is an object of the present invention to provide a 50 Sonic Signal with a first input Signal to produce a first
nonlethal individual or crowd control device which uses an modulated Signal, providing a Second ultraSonic Signal, and
audible Sound broadcasted using an ultraSonic Sound as a broadcasting the first modulated Signal and the Second
carrier. ultraSonic Signal to a listener.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a In one aspect of the embodiment, the method includes
device that will allow the hearing impaired to hear Speech. 55 amplitude modulating the Second ultraSonic Signal with a
It is still another object of the present invention to provide Second input signal to produce a Second modulated Signal,
a device that will emit audible Sound to listeners located in amplifying the amplitude modulated Signal, and projecting
a defined area. the first and Second modulated Signals in the audible range
It is yet another object of the present invention to provide of the listener.
a low frequency Sound, either audible or Sub-audible 60 In yet another embodiment of the present invention, there
frequency, in the heads of listenerS. is provided an apparatus including a unit modulating an
In one embodiment of the present invention, there is ultraSonic Signal with an information Signal to produce a
provided an apparatus including a unit amplitude modulat modulated Signal in which the information signal is com
ing an ultraSonic Signal with a Square root of an information pletely intelligible to a listener, and a projector coupled to
Signal to produce a modulated Signal, and a projector 65 the unit and projecting the modulated Signal to the listener.
coupled to the unit and projecting the modulated Signal to a These together with other objects and advantages which
listener. will be Subsequently apparent, reside in the details of
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construction and operation as more fully hereinafter predictable, tends to produce jumpineSS and Sometimes
described and claimed, reference being had to the accom leads to irrational behavior.
panying drawings forming a part hereof, wherein like Secondly, there are a class of Sounds which will cause a
numerals refer to like parts throughout. person to be startled and divert his/her attention from the
task that he/she is doing because they indicate a possible
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS imminent danger to him/her. Examples are: (1) gunfire, and
FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a two (2) automobile crash noises.
projector System for broadcasting an audible Sound using an Both of these classes of Sound will likely produce a
ultraSonic Sound as a carrier. “startle' reaction in a crowd the first time that they are used.
FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a one If the crowd, however, identifies the Source as, for example,
projector System for broadcasting an audible Sound using an a loudspeaker, they will likely adapt to and ignore the noise.
ultraSonic Sound as a carrier. If the crowd mills around for a longer time, the Sounds could
cause headaches and other Symptoms of StreSS. The crowd
FIG.3 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a projector may disperse, but this is not at all certain.
System using computer based signal processing. 15 If, on the other hand, one is trying to Stop a fleeing perSon,
FIG. 4 illustrates exemplary embodiments of one and two a Sudden noise, Such as the Screech of brakes, would
projector Systems employed in a Stationary and mobile undoubtedly cause the person to be startled and try to See
environment. whether the noise indicated impeding danger to him/her.
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED
He/She will clearly be disoriented for a few seconds,
although the average time will vary from person to perSon.
EMBODIMENTS The Sound of a gunshot may, for example, cause the same
An apparatus and method of using ultraSonic Sound to effect, or it may simply cause the person to run faster or run
create audible Sounds in the heads of individuals, or of a in a weaving manner.
crowd of individuals, will be described. The Sounds could be A third class of Sound includes low frequency vibrations
Voices, music or ringing Sounds to cause discomfort, 25 either slightly above or below 20 Hertz; the lower audible
disorientation, or low frequency vibrations that have been limit. Vibrations in this frequency range produce Several
shown to induce discomfort. effects on a perSon's body.
The physical principles involved in such devices will be Resonances of Several internal organs lie in this frequency
described together with the way that they would be used to range. It has been shown that exposure to vibrations at an
disrupt or affect the actions of an individual or crowd. organ resonance cause nausea and a general feeling of
Additionally, examples will be used to indicate ways in malaise. Vibrational amplitudes that are too high will cause
which to handle the situations described above. physical damage to the organs, whereas Vibrations at a
constant frequency or starting Very low an rising through the
QUALITATIVE DESCRIPTION range appear to cause a feeling of unease and tend to
PRELIMINARY CONSIDERATIONS 35 increase the Suggestibility of a crowd.
The use of Sound controlling groups or crowds in both The effects on a person's mood appear to be caused by
civil and military situations was considered at least as far hitting frequencies close to the alpha frequency of the brain
back as World War II. Psychological studies on sounds that waves. A phenomenon called “entrainment’ occurs when the
produce an aversive effect, or a pleasant effect, have been brain is stimulated at frequencies close to 10 Hz. This means
reported since the early decades of this century. Work in the 40 that the brain's natural frequency is pulled close to, and
nineteenth century by Helmholtz and Lord Rayleigh Sometime equal to, the Stimulating frequency. A normal
(detailed below) show an understanding of the effect that brain displays a prominent “alpha” pattern (8 to 12 Hz) at a
combination tones, or beats, with low frequencies (less than time of relaxed alertneSS. Tense alertneSS, Such as caused by
about one hundred Hertz) have on the pleasant or unpleasant freeway driving, leads to a “beta” pattern with a frequency
quality of a Sound. 45 of 13 Hz or higher. A relaxed, dreamlike State causes a
Crowds can largely be divided into two kinds; those with “theta” pattern of frequencies from 4 to 8 Hz.
leaders, and those without. A crowd with a leader can be Other experiments, such as the ones cited by Norbert
affected either by limiting the communication between the Wiener in “Nonlinear Problems in Random Theory”, found
leader and the crowd, or by directly affecting the crowd. A that “a decidedly unpleasant Sensation' was produced by
crowd without a leader (Such as a looting mob) can only be 50 stimulating the brain at “about 10 Hz.” In fact, Helmholtz
affected by Something that influences everyone in the crowd. argues that beats of frequency less than 40 HZ are not
Thus, it is necessary to develop physical methods to either perceivable as tones, but rather create a jarring feeling and
impair communication, or to produce a physical or psycho are responsible for the unpleasant Sensation of dissonant
logical effect in all perSons exposed to the System. combinations of notes in music. AS the low notes of the
Some of the methods Suggested for affecting an entire 55 organ are in the range of 30 HZ, it would seem that tones
crowd involve very high intensity sound (120 dB or more ranging in frequency from about 12 to 40 Hz will produce
above the standard level of 2x10 N/mi). Sirens or very low an unpleasant feeling, or Suggestibility. These tones are
frequency vibrations (less than 100 Hertz) are frequently probably useful in crowd control used either by themselves,
spoken of. or to induce a mood that could then be triggered by another
Studies indicate Several classes of Sound to be of interest 60 Sound.
in crowd control. One class of Sounds includes those which In producing low frequency vibrations with a conven
are aversive in themselves. Examples of these are: (1) tional loudspeaker, Several problems arise. First, at frequen
Scraping noises, Such as that of chalk on a blackboard, (2) cies as low as this, loudspeakers are not very efficient in
the crying of a baby, and (3) Screams of pain. These Sounds producing Sound. The Speaker will have to be quite large.
almost involuntarily cause a person to avert his/her attention 65 Second, there is very little directivity possible with frequen
from what he/she is doing, at least momentarily. Repeated cies this low. Directive arrays would be huge, making it
exposure to this class of Sounds, if the occurrence is not almost impossible to define an area where the effect occurs
 6,052,336
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or to draw a line in the Sand where individuals Start feeling example, ultrasonic Sound Source 35 (Such as a conventional
the effect when they cross it. Finally, the signal would be ultraSonic Signal generator) which generates another ultra
Strongest at the Speakers, requiring protective gear for at Sonic signal, modulation Sound Source 40 (Such as a
least the operators, and probably for all of the crowd control microphone) which generates another information signal
perSonnel. (Such as a voice), modulator 45 (Such as a conventional
Methods to impede communication between a Speaker amplitude modulator) which amplitude modulates the ultra
and a crowd have also been examined. One of the most Sonic Signal with the information Signal to produce a modu
interesting is techniques includes playing back to a speaker lated signal, amplifier 37 (Such as a conventional amplifier)
his/her own voice with a slight delay (less than a Second). which amplifies the modulated signal, and projector 50
The Speaker Stutters and trips on his/her words unless he/she (Such as an ultrasonic speaker—a tweeter type speaker)
Slows down his/her rate of delivery a great deal. which emits the amplified signal. Sound overlap region 55
If two moderately loud audible tones of different fre is the region where the sound waves of projectors 30 and 50
quency are received by the ear Simultaneously, then, in overlap. Two projector system 10 is not, however, limited to
addition to the two original tones, Somewhat weaker tones the embodiments described above. For example, two pro
with frequencies given by the Sum and the difference of the 15 jector System 10 may include first projector unit 12 and
original frequencies can be heard. This is called the Beat Second projector unit 14, wherein projector unit 12 includes,
Frequency phenomenon when the two frequencies are close for example, ultrasonic Sound Source 15, modulation Sound
together, and the Combination Tone phenomenon when they Source 20, modulator 25, and projector 30, and projector unit
are not. The combination tones are caused by a non-linear 14 includes, for example, ultraSonic Sound Source 35 and
response by the ear to Somewhat loud Sounds. The details of projector 50. That is, projector unit 14 need not have sound
the production of these tones are discussed in more detail Source 40. Similarly, sound overlap region 55 is the region
herein below. where the sound waves of projectors 30 and 50 overlap.
It is important, and in fact one of the critical physical FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a one
principles in this invention, that an audible combination tone projector System for broadcasting an audible Sound using
can be heard even when the two original tones are ultrasonic 25 ultraSonic Sound as a carrier. This System could be for crowd
so that their frequencies lie above 20,000 Hz, the upper limit control, an improved hearing aid for the hearing impaired, or
of audibility. In this case, the combination tone corresponds to emit audible Sound to listeners located in a defined area.
to the difference of the two original frequencies and is One projector System 60 includes, for example, ultraSonic
audible if it lies in the 20-20,000 HZ range of audibility. Sound Source 65 (Such as a convention ultrasonic signal
The present invention shows ways in which, by altering generator) which generates an ultrasonic signal, modulation
the frequency and amplitude of one of the ultraSonic tones, Sound Source 70 (Such as a microphone) which generates an
the difference tone can be made to be a single tone (possibly information signal (Such as a voice), modulator 75 (Such as
of Very low frequency), a Scream or shot, or a voice. a conventional amplitude modulator) which modulates the
More detailed discussions will be deferred until the ultraSonic signal with the information Signal to produce a
“Technical Description” hereinbelow. We will discuss a way 35 modulated Signal, amplifier 80 (Such as a conventional
of causing a targeted person (or group) to hear whatever amplifier) which amplifies the modulated signal, and pro
pattern of Sound, be it speech or anything else, that we wish. jector 85 (Such as a conventional ultraSonic speaker a
A combination tone is produced in the heads of all tweeter type speaker) which emits the amplified signal.
individuals exposed to both ultraSonic tones. If you are FIG.3 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a projector
exposed to only one, you hear nothing, Additionally, these 40 System using computer based signal processing. For
individuals are unable to detect the Source of the Sound. example, in a one projector System, Such as illustrated in
The following exemplary Systems are described. One FIG. 2, computer 87 operates as ultrasonic sound source 65,
includes two directional projectors, each capable of gener modulation sound source 70 and modulator 75. Computer 87
ating a powerful ultrasonic tone and directing the beam to a generates an ultrasonic Sound Signal and generates or inputs
desired point or area. At least one of the projectors is capable 45 an audible Sound Signal, and then modulates the two signals.
of modulating the Sound either in frequency, amplitude or Computer 87 can modulate the two Signals using, for
both. The projectors would probably be separated by some example, conventional frequency or amplitude modulation
distance, but this depends on the desired effect, which techniqueS or the techniques described hereinbelow. The
governs the design. modulates Signal produced by computer 87 is then trans
Another includes a single projector with the capability of 50 mitted to digital-to-analog (D/A) converter 89, whereupon
modulating the amplitude of the projected Signal. the digital Signal is converted to an analog Signal. The analog
More specifically, FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary signal produced by D/A converter 89 is then amplified by
embodiment of a two projector System for broadcasting an amplifier 91, and transmitted to projector 93. Projector 93
audible Sound using an ultraSonic Sound as a carrier. Two then emits the amplified Signal to a listener. The same
projector System 10 includes, for example, first projection 55 principles can be applied to the two projector System illus
unit 12 and Second projection unit 14. First projection unit trated in FIG. 1.
12 includes, for example, ultrasonic Sound Source 15 (Such FIG. 4 illustrates exemplary embodiments of one and two
as a conventional ultrasonic signal generator) which gener projector Systems employed in a Stationary and mobile
ates an ultraSonic signal, modulation Sound Source 20 (Such environment. For example, reference numeral 100 illustrates
as a microphone) which generates an information signal 60 two projector system 10 (illustrated in FIG. 1) in a stationary
(Such as a tone), modulator 25 (Such as a conventional environment. In this example, projectors 30 and 50 are
frequency modulator) which frequency modulates the ultra mounted on the top of a building, and directed towards
Sonic Signal with the information Signal to produce a modu Sound overlap region 55. A perSon or crowd located in Sound
lated signal, amplifier 27 (Such as a conventional amplifier) overlap region 55, located, for example, 50M from projec
amplifying the modulated signal, and projector 30 (Such as 65 tors 30 and 50, detects the broadcasted sound(s). Reference
an ultrasonic speaker—a tweeter type speaker) which emits numeral 105, on the other hand, illustrates two projector
the amplified signal. Second projection unit 14 includes, for System 10 in a mobile environment. In this example, pro
 6,052,336
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jectors 30 and 50 are mounted in the back of a vehicle. The Since most cultures attribute inner voices either as signs
vehicle may then be directed to move with the individual or of madness, or as messages from Spirits or demons, both of
crowd, as the individual or crowd moves, Such that the which will invoke powerful emotional reactions, it is
individual or crowd remains in sound overlap region 55. expected that the use of a voice will have an immediate
When employing two projector System 10, System param intense effect.
eters may include, for example, the following: (1) Sound Another effect is the low (less than 100 Hz) frequency
Source=loudspeaker/crystal, (2) frequency=~30 kHz, (3) Sound. There are several reasons for this. First, these low
sound intensity=100 db (max) at 50 meters, (4) total source frequency Sounds will have a higher amplitude, in general,
power (sound)=0.14 Watts, and (5) minimum focal spot than the Voice frequency Sounds. Second, Sounds at these
size=1.3 meters, as illustrated by reference numeral 115 in 1O low frequencies have been shown to increase the Sugges
FIG. 4. tiveness or apprehensiveness of eXposed perSons.
Reference numeral 110 illustrates one projector system 60 A System using a barrier array So that a person would feel
(illustrated in FIG.2) in a man-portable environment. In this more and more apprehensive as he/she moved in a given
example, an individual, Such as a police officer, may direct direction, and less if he/she turned around and went out. This
projector 85 of one projector system 60 toward, for example, may require a "trigger”, Such as a Soft Voice Suggesting that
15 it is dangerous and one should go back might work, in
a fleeing individual. An individual located within the broad
casting area of one projector System 60 will detect a modu addition to the low frequency Sound.
lated Signal projected by projector 85. The modulated Signal In addition, interference with the brain's alpha rhythm of
will include, for example, an ultraSonic Sound, Such as a a targeted individual or group may be achieved. This may
whistle, amplitude modulated with an information Signal, cause temporary incapacitation, intense feelings of discom
Such as a voice. System parameters may include, for fort which would cause immediate dispersal of the crowd, or
example, the following: (1) Sound Source=fluidic oscillator departure of the targeted leader.
(whistle), (2) frequency=~100 kHz, (3) sound intensity=100 Other Sound patterns are possible, either alone or in
db (max) at 10 meters, (4) total source power (sound)=0.2 combination. Sounds Such as random shots, or Screams may
Watts, and (5) minimum focal spot size=53 cm. be very effective when combined with low frequency sounds
Listed below are Some of the useful features that a System 25 producing apprehensiveness.
employing audible tones carried by ultrasonic frequencies A leader could be singled out by using highly focused
would have. beams projected from one projector System 60, that target
(1) Power: AS long as the size of a Sound generator is only the head region of a single perSon. The Sound patterns
Smaller than the wavelength, the power output is propor described above could be used, or one could use the Speak
tional to the fourth power of the frequency. That is, the er's Own Voice, with an appropriate delay. The pattern
power output of a given sized generator is much higher at selected would depend on whether it is desired to disrupt the
high frequencies than it is at low frequencies. Hence, this Speaker or his Speaking ability.
property makes it simpler to produce high output at high Return to the Situations Described in the Background Sec
frequencies with Smaller generators. This would imply that tion
a 30,000 Hz generator could produce the same sound 35 Whether to use two projector system 10 or one projector
intensity as a 30 Hz generator 10' times its size. This System 60 depends on the applicable situation. For example,
property makes it fairly simple to produce high power in the “Somalia' situation, the best effect could probably be
outputs with fairly Small generators. achieved by using projector System 10, wherein one projec
(2) Directivity: The diffraction angle of a reflector or lens tor focused on the individual and another broad beam device
in a projector is proportional to the wavelength of the Sound 40 targeting the crowd. A frequency near the alpha frequency
divided by the diameter of the reflector lens. Since a 30,000 would be directed at the individual to disorient him/her and
HZ Sound wave has a wavelength of 1 cm., parabolic perhaps make him/her collapse.
reflectors with diameters of about 1 mtr. will provide excel The crowd could be handled in a different way, for
lent directivity. In addition, the short wavelength will make example, with Sounds that induce apprehensiveness, without
it possible to quickly design “beams' that will possess 45 disabling. Ideally, the crowd would disperse, leaving the
features, Such as fairly sharp Shadow regions, So that perSons leader to be apprehended. In fact, certain characteristic
will have a definite perception of the desired effect in the Sounds may be known to a particular culture that indicate
“illuminated” region, but little in the “shadow'. Invisible that a person has a dreaded disease, Such as the plague. This,
barriers are thus possible. In addition, the relatively small together with Sounds causing general apprehensiveness,
arrays can conceivably be mounted on helicopters, remotely 50 might work.
powered aircraft, or balloons. The crowd on a dock described in the Haiti example,
(3) Stealthiness: Combination tones are produced in the would be handled in roughly the same way. Sounds causing
heads of those exposed to both beams. Since the sounds general discomfort would be mixed with other, for example,
from the individual projectors are inaudible, it will not be culturally Specific Sounds that would incite fear and discom
easy to identify them as the source of the Sound. This will 55 fort. The intensity of the sounds could be increased for a
make it difficult for the crowd to respond by attacking the while, then followed by a Scream, or Some related noise.
System. In addition, the appearance of Sounds in their heads Since the Source of the Sounds is not readily obvious, there
from no apparent Source will create alarm or fear in the will probably be general panic and fleeing.
exposed group. This effect by itself will probably cause a An ultraSonic device may also be used to control looting
crowd to disperse, particularly if the crowd were composed 60 crowds, instead of the more harmful tear gas after hard to
of unsophisticated or SuperStitious people. control crowds. Additionally, the difficult task of removing
Effects of the System residual tear gas is eliminated. An ultrasonic device would
The primary psychological difference between this SyS be used to control the crowd by exposing them to disori
tem and other proposed Systems using Sound for crowd enting Sounds, and Sounds inducing fear.
control is the property creating the Sound within the head of 65 Technical Description of the Method
the target individual. The effect on a person who Suddenly The operation of the embodiments illustrated in FIGS.
Starts to hear Sounds with no apparent Source is not known. 1-3 will now be described. The system depends largely on
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9 10
the operation of the response of the ear to “moderately' loud not Zero, but is probably Smaller than B since frequencies
Sounds, where “moderately implies Sounds loud enough to corresponding to the third harmonic (although seen) are
drive the ear into a non-linear response mode. The non weaker than the Second order terms.
linear response of the ear to high amplitude Sounds is Single Tone Effect
discussed by, for example, Helmholtz. The quadratic terms in the response will now be dis
The Response of the Ear cussed.
Let S(t) represent the total pressure incident on an The cosine Squared terms lead to the terms:
eardrum, and the net vibrational response of the mechanism
involved in hearing by: a/2 (1)
and

which Simply States that the response is a function of a/2*cos(2ft) (2)

Stimulus.
A power Series expansion of the function F, results in: with Similar terms involving b and f.
15 Equation (1) is independent of the frequencies of the
R(t)=A*S(t)+B*(S(T))^+C*(S(t)+... original tones and represents a constant pressure if the
amplitude a is constant. The pressure represented by this
The higher powerS having been dropped. Apossible constant term is present even if there is only one ultraSonic projector,
term is also dropped since it is clear that there is no response and results in inducing audible Sound with a single projector
when there is no Stimulus. if the amplitude is not constant.
The expression when the stimulus includes two tones with Equation (2) is twice the frequency, which will be inau
frequency f. and f, respectively are: dible if the original frequency is ultraSonic.
If the amplitude of the ultraSonic tone is modulated at a
frequency much less than that of the ultrasonic tone (Such as
The amplitude of the two sounds are a and b. 25 an audible frequency), the pressure in the ear would also be
From the expressions above: modulated. A voice, or any other complex tone, should be
rendered audible by this mechanism.
Additionally, the “constant” term that results from the
Square of the primary tone is the Square of the amplitude of
the primary. If desired, Signal processing can be used to
Using Standard trigonometric identities, the terms in the induce voices Since the amplitude of the original tone needs
Second line of the equation become: to be the Square root of the Voice Signal. A bias can also be
applied to prevent the signal going to the Square root circuit
from ever being negative. The Square root technique can be
35 accomplished using, for example, conventional analog cir
If all of the constants in the expansion of F except A are cuits with, for example, a Square root output, or a computer
Zero, the response would be perfectly linear. That is, any using, for example, a digital Square root function.
number of tones would produce a response which contains The theory for the single tone effect will now be
all of the frequencies in the incident pressure wave and no described. First, assume that the Voice that one wishes to
others. The amplitude of any tone in the response would be 40 transmit is Fourier analyzed.
proportional to its amplitude in the incident wave.
If B is not Zero, the bracketed terms in the last expression
will be present in the response. ASSuming that a and b are
“small" (less than one) and about the same size, then a, b, where only two of the components are retained to illustrate
and ab will be smaller than a or b. Even if B were equal to 45
the principle. If F is the ultrasonic (carrier) frequency, the
A, the quadratic terms in the response would be Smaller than transmitted Signal is:
the linear terms. However, as a and b get larger, the relative
size of a, b, and ab to a and b grows. Mathematically this
occurs where a and b are greater than one. Thus, the relative where C is large enough to invoke the non-linear Square
amplitudes of the quadratic terms in the response: 50 response:
CIA+acos(f,t)+bcos(f,t)-1+cos(2*Ft)/2 (3)
increase relative to Aa and Ab. Equation (3) can be broken inot the following terms:
The behavior discussed above describes the behavior of
the ear. When Sound amplitudes are Small, the ear hears the 55 C*A/2+C*(a cos(f,t)+bcos(f,t))/2+C*(A+a*cos(ft)+
b*cos(ft))cos(2*Ft)/2 (4)
incident tones and no others. When the amplitudes are larger,
combination tones corresponding to frequencies (f+f) and The second term in equation (3) (C*(acos (ft)+b*cos
(f-f) are heard. Recent studies at 350 Hz, have measured (ft))/2) is directly proportional to the corresponding term in
that when the primary tones have an amplitude of about 55 f(t). Equation (4) includes the terms with the frequencies
db, the second harmonic has an intensity about 40 to 45 db 60 (2*F+/-f). With F as an ultrasonic frequency, these tones
below the fundamental. At primary tone levels of 80 db the will be inaudible. The same will be true by extension for the
harmonic tone is only a few db below the fundamental. A entire voice f(t). Thus, an audible voice signal together with
Similar behavior is expected when the primary tones are inaudible ultrasonic tones will be induced by this mecha
ultraSonic, although the relative sizes of the linear and nism.
quadratic terms may be frequency dependent. 65 Combination Tones
All of this leads to the conclusion that B is not zero, but The terms with frequencies given by the Sum and the
that it is Smaller than A. Experiments Suggest that C is also difference of the frequencies of the original tones are called
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11 12
combination tones. If the two tones are ultrasonic, the Sum Producing Undistorted Sounds. Using Two Ultrasonic Sound
frequency will also be ultrasonic, and hence inaudible. The Sources
difference frequency, however, will be audible if it lies in the Real time computer based signal processing can be used
audible range for the ear. The production of an audible to produce an understandable, non-distorted Signal from a
difference from two inaudible ultraSonic tones was reported pair of ultraSonic projectors in the following way.
by Lord Raleigh. This shows that the non-linearity, experi ASSume a sinusoidal Signal of frequency f is fed into one
mentally verified for audible Sounds, is not appreciably of projectors 30 and 50, and the signal for broadcasting is
different for ultrasonic Sounds. Fourier analyzed in real time by a computer and can be
In Summary, a non-linearity of the ear exists giving rise to written:
a quadratic term in the ear's response. This effect occurs
both when the original Sounds are audible, or ultrasonic.
If the two ultrasonic tones of different frequencies were The computer takes each of the frequencies f. and adds f
beamed at an individual, or a crowd, the difference fre to it, and then constructs the Signal:
quency would be heard, assuming that it lies in the audible
range. The frequency could be changed in any desired 15
pattern, or left at a constant frequency, Such as a low
frequency to increase apprehensiveSS. If g(t) is amplified and then fed to the Second projector,
If one wishes to induce a wave with a complex frequency the signal in the regions where the two beams cross (Sound
pattern Such as a voice, the wave could be used to amplitude overlap region 55 is:
modulate one or both of the ultraSonic waves. The frequency Acos(ft)+Bg(t).
of the two waves would likely be the same, or else there
would be a background note consisting of the difference The Square of this signal is:
tone. Although, it might be preferable to deliberately induce
a low frequency to increase apprehensiveness. Acos(f,t)+B g’(t)+2ABcos (f)g(t).
The quadratic terms also imply that the “constant term 25
exists even with only one tone. Thus, a Single high amplitude We will ignore the first two terms as being both ultrasonic.
ultraSonic Source, amplitude modulated with a voice (a The third term is:
Square root of the voice), would induce the voice in the
heads of those exposed to the Signal. A one projector System,
such as system 60, would be the system of choice for, for 2AB{Xacos(ft)cos(f+ft)}
example, man-portable devices. Using Standard trigonometric identities, this is:
Beat Tones
In addition to the combination tones described above,
which are due to the quadratic response of the ear, a
phenomenon called the “Beat Frequency' effect occurs if the 35 The first Set of these Sums will again be ultraSonic, thus
two frequencies are very close together. Beat tones are of not audible. The Second Set, however, is
importance in the use of Very low frequencies, Since they are
caused by a linear response term, which is generally larger ABXacos(ft)
in amplitude than the combination tone. (noting that: cos(fi)=cos(fi))
Observing two waves with slightly different frequencies f 40
and f--öf (with of Small), the linear response will be: Hence, an amplified form of the Signal that we wish to
transmit.
Similarly, real time computer based signal processing can
be used to produce an understandable, non-distorted Signal
45 from a single ultraSonic projector, wherein the Square root of
an input signal is produced by the computer.
Propagation and Focussing of UltraSonic Sound
One of the great advantages of using an ultraSonic Sound
as a carrier for audible Sounds is the ease of focussing due
50 to the short wavelength involved. Sounds are a wave
Both of these terms include waves with frequency f whose phenomenon, just as light, and can be treated mathemati
amplitude is modulated at frequency of. When f is an audible cally by the same equations that describe light, with appro
frequency, the pulsing changes in amplitude (beat) are priate changes in the interpretation of the quantities
clearly audible. involved.
AS the beats increase, the beat frequency becomes harder 55 ASSume a point Source of Sound placed at or near the
to distinguish and is gradually perceived as a weaker, focus of Sound mirror. Since Sound is reflected by a Sudden
independent tone. The beat phenomenon can thus be said to difference in the density of the material of propagation, most
shade the combination tone phenomenon. materials, Such as metals or plastics, will Serve as mirrors.
Two ultrasonic tones whose combination tone is a very AS in the case of light, the position of the Source at, in front
low frequency produce a beat phenomenon, where the beat 60 of, or behind the focal point will determine the character of
frequency would equal the combination tone frequency. In the wave reflected from the mirror. When using the “geo
this case, the ear would perceive the beat. The amplitude of metrical optics' approximation, the focal point in front of
the beat will be higher than the combination tone since it the mirror is more important. We will be most interested in
arises from the linear, rather than the quadratic, response of the case where the Sound would be brought to a point focus
the ear. 65 at Some distance in front of the mirror, if we were to use the
Hence, its likely that low frequency Sounds, can be "geometrical optics' approximation. The Sound wave should
induced with particularly high amplitudes. then be represented by a spherical wave centered on the
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13 14
geometric focal point of the mirror. The wave would not be 7. The method according to claim 6, further comprising:
a complete Sphere, however, Since the mirror has a finite amplifying the modulated Signal; and
size. Sound emitted by the Source that passed beyond the transmitting the amplified modulated Signal.
mirror boundary will not be reflected and focussed at the 8. The method according to claim 5, wherein the modu
focal point. The finite size of the mirror causes the wave to 5
lating is an amplitude modulation.
exhibit diffraction and not to focus to a geometrical point. 9. An apparatus, comprising:
The most pertinent part of the analysis lies in the fact that
there is a diffraction circle Surrounding the focal point. The a first modulator frequency modulating a first ultrasonic
radius of the circle is 00/.610*(1/a)* f. In this formula, 1 is Signal with a first input Signal to produce a first modul
the wavelength (the speed of sound (3.30-10 cm./sec.) lated ultraSonic Signal;
divided by the frequency), a is the radius of the mirror, and a first ultraSonic Signal Source providing a Second ultra
f is the distance to the focal point of the mirror. About 80% Sonic Signal, and
of the total energy Striking the mirror from the Source passes a broadcasting System, coupled to the first modulator and
through the diffraction circle described above. This is the the ultraSonic Signal Source, broadcasting the first
basis for the calculation of the Source power required to
produce a given power flux at the focal point. 15 modulated ultrasonic Signal and the Second ultrasonic
By moving the Source away from the close focal point of Signal to a listener.
the mirror, the energy will be spread over larger areas in the 10. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the
vicinity of the far focal point. This will be the technique used broadcasting System comprises:
when a crowd, rather than an individual, is to be exposed. a first projector, coupled to the first modulator, projecting
Another important feature of ultrasonic Sound is that it is the first modulated Signal; and
absorbed by the air to a much greater extent than audible a Second projector, coupled to the ultraSonic Signal Source,
sound. At 1 mhz, an attenuation coefficient for air is 15(1/ projecting the Second ultrasonic Signal.
mtr.), varying as the Square of the frequency. This coefficient 11. The apparatus according to claim 9, further compris
is for the pressure, So double the calculated value must be ing:
used to obtain the attenuation of the intensity, which depends 25
on the Square of the pressure. a first input Sound Source, coupled to the first modulator,
Absorption is moderate for frequencies around 30 kHz, outputting the first input Signal; and
but becomes severe for 100 kHz waves. This will lead to a Second ultraSonic Signal Source, coupled to the first
tradeoffs between the better focussing properties of Shorter modulator, providing the first ultrasonic Signal.
waves and the lower absorption of longer waves. 12. An apparatus, comprising:
The many features and advantages of the invention are a first modulator frequency modulating a first ultrasonic
apparent from the detailed Specification and, thus, it is Signal with a first input Signal to produce a first modul
intended by the appended claims to cover all Such features
and advantages of the invention which fall within the true lated ultraSonic Signal;
Spirit and Scope of the invention. Further, Since numerous a first input Sound Source, coupled to the first modulator,
modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled 35 outputting the first input Signal;
in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact a first ultraSonic Signal Source providing a Second ultra
construction and operation illustrated and described, and Sonic Signal;
accordingly all Suitable modifications and equivalents may a Second ultraSonic Signal Source, coupled to the first
be resorted to, falling within the Scope of the invention. modulator, providing the first ultrasonic Signal;
What is claimed is: 40
1. An apparatus, comprising: a Second modulator amplitude modulating the Second
a unit amplitude modulating an ultrasonic signal with a ultrasonic Signal with a Second input signal to produce
Square root of an information Signal to produce a a Second modulated Signal;
modulated Signal; and a Second input Sound Source, coupled to the Second
a projector coupled to Said unit and projecting the modu 45 modulator, outputting the Second input signal;
lated Signal to a listener. an amplifier, coupled to an output of the Second
2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein Said unit modulator, amplifying the amplitude modulated Signal;
comprises: and
a circuit producing the Square root of the information 50
a broadcasting System, coupled to the first modulator and
Signal; and the ultraSonic Signal Source, broadcasting the first
a modulator amplitude modulating the ultrasonic Signal modulated ultrasonic Signal and the Second ultrasonic
with the Square root of the information Signal. Signal to a listener.
3. The apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising: 13. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the first
a first Sound Source, coupled to an input of the modulator, 55
and Second ultraSonic Signals produce a difference Signal for
outputting the information Signal; and the listener in an audible range of the listener.
a Second Sound Source, coupled to the input of the 14. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the
modulator, outputting the ultraSonic Signal. input signal comprises a Square root of an information
4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the Signal.
information signal comprises a voice Signal. 60
15. The apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the
5. A method, comprising: information signal comprises a voice.
modulating an ultrasonic Signal with a Square root of an 16. A method, comprising:
information Signal to produce a modulated Signal; and frequency modulating a first ultraSonic Signal with a first
projecting the modulated Signal to a listener. input Signal to produce a first modulated Signal;
6. The method according to claim 5, wherein the modu 65 providing a Second ultraSonic Signal; and
lating further comprises producing a Square root signal from broadcasting the first modulated Signal and the Second
the information signal. ultrasonic Signal to a listener.
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15 16
17. A method, comprising: respectively, as a carrier Such that at least one perSon
frequency modulating a first ultraSonic Signal with a first exposed to the ultraSonic Sounds can hear the audible
input Signal to produce a first modulated Signal; Sounds, without detecting the Source of the Sounds, com
providing a Second ultrasonic Signal; prising:
amplitude modulating the Second ultrasonic Signal with a
5 a first information Sound Source outputting a first infor
Second input signal to produce a Second modulated mation signal;
Signal; and a Second information Sound Source outputting a Second
amplifying the amplitude modulated Signal; and information signal;
broadcasting the first modulated Signal and the Second a first ultraSonic Sound Source outputting a first ultrasonic
Signal;
ultraSonic Signal to a listener. a Second ultraSonic Sound Source outputting a Second
18. The method according to claim 17, further compris ultrasonic Signal;
ing:
emitting the first and Second modulated Signals in the a first modulator, coupled to the first ultraSonic Sound
audible range of the listener. 15 Source and the first information Sound Source, fre
19. An apparatus for broadcasting an audible Sound using quency modulating the first ultraSonic signal with the
an ultraSonic Sound as a carrier Such that at least one perSon first information signal to produce a first modulated
Signal;
exposed to the ultrasonic Sound can hear the audible Sound,
without detecting the Source of the Sound, comprising: a Second modulator, coupled to the Second ultrasonic
an information Sound Source outputting an information Sound Source and the Square root circuit, frequency
Signal; modulating the Second ultraSonic Sound with the Sec
ond information signal to produce a Second modulated
an ultraSonic Sound Source outputting the ultrasonic Signal;
Sound; a first projector unit, coupled to the first modulator,
a Square root circuit, coupled to the Sound Source, pro 25 projecting the first modulated Signal to the at least one
ducing a Square root of the information signal output by perSon; and
the information Sound Source; a Second projector unit, coupled to the Second modulator,
an ultrasonic modulator, coupled to the Square root circuit projecting the Second modulated Signal to the at least
and the ultraSonic Sound Source, amplitude modulating one perSon.
the ultraSonic Sound with the Square root of the infor 21. An apparatus, comprising:
mation Signal to produce a modulated Signal; a unit modulating an ultrasonic Signal with the Square root
an amplifier, coupled to the ultrasonic modulator, ampli of an information Signal to produce a modulated Signal
fying the modulated Signal, and in which the information signal is intelligible to a
a projector unit, coupled to the amplifier, projecting the 35
listener; and
modulated Signal Such that the audible Signal is a projector coupled to the unit and projecting the modu
detected by the at least one perSon. lated Signal to the listener.
20. An apparatus for broadcasting first and Second audible
Sounds using first and Second ultraSonic Sounds, k k k k k