Importance

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Abstract

Digital sound data are stored in a data memory. When a first display object (such as an enemy character, a waterfall, or the like) is displayed in a three-dimensional manner on a display screen, an audio processor reads out corresponding sound source data from the data memory to produce first and second sound source data. The first and second sound source data are converted into analog audio signals by digital-to-analog converters, and then used to drive left and right speakers. The audio processor calculates a delay between generation of the first and second sound source data based on a direction of the first display object as viewed from a 'virtual' camera which might correspond for example to one of the graphical characters in the three-dimensional display. The audio processor also controls sound volume levels for the first and second sound source data depending on the distance between the first display object and the virtual camera. Using the present invention, realistic sound effects consistent with and synchronized to visual changes of a three-dimensional image are generated by selectively controlling the timing and volume of sound source data provided to the left and right speakers.

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First Claim