A PEM-AFROW based algorithm for acoustic feedback control in automotive speech reinforcement systems

Developing performing speech reinforcement systems to improve the intra-cabin communication quality among car passengers in different row seats, typically degraded by the distance between speakers (for instance in SUV and mini-van) and the noise presence within the cockpit, has represented a challenging issue within the related scientific community. One of the main problem to solve in this scenario is the reduction of the electroacoustic coupling between louds and mics in order to avoid the system reaching instability (howling), namely acoustic feedback cancellation (AFC). One of the most performing technique for AFC is the PEM-AFROW approach, recently appeared in the literature. In this work, we propose an innovative feedback suppressor scheme based on the PEM-AFROW concept, which allows to achieve a valuable balance of feedback reduction, maximum stable gain values and overall sound quality. Results obtained by computer simulations in the dual channel communication scenario confirm the effectiveness of the idea.