  Parametric array loudspeakers (PALs) are known for producing highly
directional audio beams, a feat more challenging to achieve with conventional
electro-dynamic loudspeakers (EDLs). Due to their intrinsic physical
mechanisms, PALs hold promising potential for spatial audio applications such
as virtual reality (VR). However, the feasibility of using an array of PALs for
sound zone control (SZC) has remained unexplored, mainly due to the complexity
of the nonlinear demodulation process inherent in PALs. Leveraging recent
advancements in PAL modeling, this work proposes an optimization algorithm to
achieve the acoustic contrast control (ACC) between two target areas using a
PAL array. The performance and robustness of the proposed ACC-based SZC using
PAL arrays are investigated through simulations, and the results are compared
with those obtained using EDL arrays. The results show that the PAL array
outperforms the EDL array in SZC performance and robustness at higher
frequencies and lower signal-to-noise ratio, while being comparable under other
conditions. This work paves the way for high-contrast acoustic control using
PAL arrays.
