Diaphragm (e.g., Horn Or Buzzer) Patents (Class 340/388.1)
  • Patent number: 11282489
    Abstract: A method and circuit for controlling a multi-use horn by a bus are disclosed. The circuit comprises a bus signal receiving and transmitting unit used for receiving and transmitting a horn control instruction from a vehicle-mounted computer controller by the bus, a control unit used for generating a horn sounding signal adapting to a current scene according to the horn control instruction, and a horn sounding unit used for making sounds according to the horn sounding signal. By adoption of the method and circuit, the horn is connected to the vehicle-mounted computer controller by the bus and is controlled by the vehicle-mounted computer controller to make sounds, and thus, sound requirements for various horns for different uses on vehicles and engineering machines are met.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2022
    Inventor: Yu Wan
  • Patent number: 11032658
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a speaker having a frame, a vibrating system and a magnetic circuit system both fixed on the frame. The magnetic circuit system having a yoke fixed on the frame. The speaker further includes a suspension having a first fixing portion fixed with the frame. The first fixing portion includes a main body portion located in the middle of the first fixing portion and a welding pad portion formed by bending from two opposite ends of the main body portion toward a direction away from both the main body portion and the yoke. The frame includes a first surface connected to the first fixing portion and an avoiding portion formed by recessing from the first surface toward a direction away from the yoke. The welding pad portion is accommodated in the avoiding portion. A total height of the spealer is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Assignee: AAC Technologies Pte. Ltd.
    Inventors: Hongjian Hu, Shuai Li
  • Patent number: 10834508
    Abstract: An actuator, attached to a panel extending in a plane, includes a frame and a magnetic circuit assembly that includes a magnet and a voice coil, the magnet and voice coil being moveable relative to each other during operation of the actuator along an axis perpendicular to the panel's plane. The actuator further includes one or more suspension members attaching the frame to a first component of the magnetic circuit assembly. Each suspension member includes a segment attaching the suspension member to the frame at an attachment point and a first arm extending away from the attachment point to an end attached to the first component of the magnetic circuit assembly. During operation of the actuator the first arm of the one or more suspension members flex to accommodate axial displacements of the magnet relative to the voice coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: Google LLC
    Inventors: Rajiv Bernard Gomes, Mark William Starnes, Anthony King
  • Patent number: 10680501
    Abstract: A vibration actuator has a frame; a first spring, supported on one end within the frame and the other end vibrates along an axial direction. A second spring, supported on one end within the frame, and the other end vibrates along the axial direction. A first weight connected to the other end of the first spring and a second weight connected to the other end of the second spring. A magnet portion protrudes in the axial direction is in the first weight and a coil wrapped around the magnet portion is in the second weight. A driving current of a frequency that is a first resonant frequency set by the spring constant of the first spring and the mass of the first weight or a second resonant frequency set by the spring constant of the second spring and the mass of the second weight is applied to the coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2020
    Assignee: Nidec Copal Corporation
    Inventor: Shin Odajima
  • Patent number: 10620703
    Abstract: The invention relates to an actuator (7) which comprises: a frame (11) intended for being in contact with the tactile interface via a contact wall (13) so as to transmit haptic feedback to the tactile surface; a stator (15) connected to the frame (11); a movable core (19) connected via at least one resilient element to the frame (11) and intended for being moved by the stator (15) so as to generate the haptic feedback; an electromagnet (17) and at least one permanent magnet (20), one of which is supported by the stator and the other by the movable core (19). The actuator (7) also comprises a shock absorber (23) arranged between the movable core (19) and the contact wall (13), and said resilient element is sized so that, when the electromagnet is not powered, the movable core (19) applies a bearing force towards the contact wall (13) and, when the electromagnet is powered according to a predetermined polarisation, the movable core (19) moves away from the contact wall (13).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Assignee: DAV
    Inventors: Nour-Eddine El-Ouardi, Anthony Aubry
  • Patent number: 10462574
    Abstract: An actuator includes a frame that includes a panel extending in a plane and one or more pillars extending perpendicular from the plane. The actuator further includes a magnetic circuit assembly that includes a magnet and a voice coil, which are moveable relative to each other along an axis perpendicular to the plane of the panel. The actuator also includes one or more suspension members attaching the frame to a first component of the magnetic circuit assembly. Each suspension member includes a vertical segment attaching the suspension member to a corresponding one of the pillars. Each suspension member also includes a first arm extending away from the corresponding pillar to an end attached to the first component of the magnetic circuit assembly. During operation of the actuator, the first arm of the suspension member flexes to accommodate axial displacements of the magnet relative to the voice coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Assignee: Google LLC
    Inventors: Rajiv Bernard Gomes, Mark William Starnes, Anthony King
  • Patent number: 9906867
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a surface acoustic transducer optimally structured to produce sound within an aircraft cabin by vibrating the interior cabin walls. Specifically, the surface acoustic transducer comprises a primary assembly comprising a voice coil assembly having a voice coil former and wire, and a transducer housing for retaining said primary assembly and a magnet therein such in movable relations. The present surface acoustic transducer may further include a spider structured to provide an improved excursion. An external housing may additionally be provided comprising a rigid retaining wall for protecting the surface acoustic transducer from potential externally applied forces and a malleable excursion cover allowing for an excursion of the primary assembly thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Assignee: Bongiovi Acoustics LLC
    Inventors: Anthony Bongiovi, Lawrence Robert Hamelink, Brian K. Servis, John Robert Bielski
  • Patent number: 9744398
    Abstract: A hand-held exercise weight system has integral self protective features within each weight system. Each weight system has an activation button located near the user's thumb. One (1) weight system is equipped with a loud audible alarm to signal for help in times of duress. The other weight system is equipped with an ultrasonic dog repellent system, which deters any possible attacking canines. Each weight system is provided with a user replaceable battery, and is self-contained and waterproof. Each weight system has a weighted body that is detachable from the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2017
    Inventors: Vickie L. Stoddard, Steven W. Stoddard
  • Patent number: 9741330
    Abstract: A microphone module disposed in an electronic device for reducing echo noise. The microphone module includes a casing, a first diaphragm disposed in the casing, a second diaphragm disposed in the casing and a substrate disposed between the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm and joined to the casing to define a first space and a second space which are isolated and separated from each other. The first diaphragm is disposed in the first space, the second diaphragm is disposed in the second space, and the substrate is electrically connected with the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: Acer Incorporated
    Inventors: Po-Jen Tu, Jia-Ren Chang, Ming-Chun Yu, Ming-Chung Fang
  • Patent number: 9621994
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a surface acoustic transducer optimally structured to produce sound within an aircraft cabin by vibrating the interior cabin walls. Specifically, the surface acoustic transducer comprises a primary assembly comprising a voice coil assembly having a voice coil former and wire, and a transducer housing for retaining said primary assembly and a magnet therein such in movable relations. The present surface acoustic transducer may further include a spider structured to provide an improved excursion. An external housing may additionally be provided comprising a rigid retaining wall for protecting the surface acoustic transducer from potential externally applied forces and a malleable excursion cover allowing for an excursion of the primary assembly thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2017
    Assignee: Bongiovi Acoustics LLC
    Inventors: Anthony Bongiovi, Lawrence Robert Hamelink, Brian K. Servis, John Robert Bielski
  • Patent number: 9552705
    Abstract: Low frequency alarm tones emitted by life safety devices are more likely to notify sleeping children and the elderly. Disclosed herein is a life safety device equipped with a novel, compact, circumferential resonant cavity which increases the low frequency (400-600 Hz square wave) acoustic efficiency of an audio output apparatus formed by acoustically coupling an audio output transducer to the resonant cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventor: Gary Jay Morris
  • Patent number: 9318088
    Abstract: A buzzer circuit is connected to a drive circuit. The buzzer circuit includes a buzzer and a control unit. The control unit includes an electronic switch, a first resistor, a second resistor, and a constant voltage component. A control end of the electronic switch is connected to a power pin of the buzzer through the first resistor, and is grounded through the constant voltage component. A first end of the electronic switch is connected to a grounded pin of the buzzer. A second end of the electronic switch is grounded through the second resistor. When the buzzer receives a high level drive signal, the electronic switch is turned on. A voltage between the control end and the second end of the electronic switch is constant, the constant voltage component provides a constant voltage to the second resistor, and a current of the second resistor is constant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2016
    Assignees: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (WuHan) CO., LTD., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Yong-Zhao Huang
  • Patent number: 9266469
    Abstract: A sound measuring and regulating device for a horn comprises a push button panel (1) or a remote control (10) with push button switches, whereby activating one of the switches sends a signal to be evaluated by a main control module (2) that is connected to a relay (4), which activates an automotive horn (5), processing a specific, pre-programmed sound for that contact. Each push button corresponds to a programmed sound, fulfilling the expectations of the user. The aim of the present invention is to regulate and dispense these sounds, thereby creating a healthier environment for all without interfering with the original setup of the steering wheel's panel (3) which continues to activate the factory's original horn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Inventor: Wadih Antonio Garios
  • Patent number: 9116018
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a contactless magnetic sensor for measuring the angular or linear movement of a ferromagnetic target. The purpose of the disclosure is to make a position sensor having reduced dimensions and capable of detecting a piece of position information as soon as the sensor is powered without degrading the performance thereof. To this end, the disclosure relates to a mobile sensor that includes at least one permanent magnet, at least one ferromagnetic member at least one magnetically sensitive member, the permanent magnet having an upper surface opposite the ferromagnetic target, wherein the permanent magnet has a substantially cylindrical or parallelepiped shape and includes a cavity, the ferromagnetic member being arranged inside the cavity and the magnetically sensitive member being arranged inside the cavity above the ferromagnetic member and below the upper surface of the magnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Assignee: MOVING MAGNET TECHNOLOGIES (MMT)
    Inventor: Didier Frachon
  • Patent number: 9088200
    Abstract: An electromechanical generator for converting mechanical vibrational energy into electrical energy. The electromechanical generator has a housing and an electrically conductive coil assembly movably mounted in the housing. The coil assembly has radially inner and outer sides, and upper and lower edges. A mount for the coil assembly extends inwardly of the radially inner side for mounting the coil assembly for linear vibrational motion along an axis. A first biasing device is mounted between the housing and the mount to bias the electrically conductive coil assembly in opposed directions along the axis towards a central coil position, a magnetic core assembly is movably mounted in the housing for linear vibrational motion along the axis, and a second biasing device is mounted between the housing and the magnetic core assembly to bias the magnetic core assembly in opposed directions along the axis towards a central magnet position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Assignee: PERPETUUM LTD
    Inventor: Stephen Roberts
  • Patent number: 9024736
    Abstract: Herein described is an electro-pneumatic sound alarm, to be fitted on a two or four wheeled vehicle, constituted by an electro-compressor (2), having the function of drawing atmospheric air, compressing it and conveying it to an acoustic group (3). Such sound alarm (1) is characterized in that the electro-compressor (2) and the acoustic group (3) are mutually held by means of removable fit-coupling; furthermore, the coupling elements are rigid and integral with the aforementioned two components (FIG. 1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Fisa Italia S.R.L.
    Inventor: Daniele Righetto
  • Patent number: 9013284
    Abstract: A vehicle presence notification apparatus may include a dynamic speaker for radiating a notification sound from a vehicle in an audible frequency, and a sound pressure supplement unit is provided to control a sound pressure of the notification sound. The apparatus may further include a parametric speaker for generating a supersonic sound of the notification sound from a supersonic sound generation unit. The supersonic sound is emitted from a sound emission opening. The parametric speaker may further include a reflected sound pressure detecting unit for detecting a sound pressure generated by a reflection of the supersonic sound from the sound emission opening. The sound pressure supplement unit increases the sound pressure of the notification sound radiated by the dynamic speaker based on the sound pressure detected by the reflected sound pressure detecting unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Toshiaki Nakayama, Junichi Ishikawa
  • Patent number: 8933794
    Abstract: A vehicle presence notification apparatus notifying a presence of a vehicle includes an alarm device and a dynamic speaker. The alarm device includes an alarm generator generating an alarm sound and an acoustic tube through which the alarm sound is emitted outside of the vehicle. The dynamic speaker generates a notification sound with audible frequency. The dynamic speaker is fixed to the acoustic tube and emits the notification sound inside of the acoustic tube, such that the notification sound is generated outside of the vehicle through the acoustic tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignees: Denso Corporation, Hamanakodenso Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshiaki Nakayama, Koji Suzuki, Keijirou Hanada
  • Patent number: 8773257
    Abstract: Disclosed are methods and devices that include a therapeutic fluid dispensing device (10) to deliver a therapeutic fluid into a body of a patient. The device includes a controller to control one or more of fluid delivery operations and notification operations, at least one auditory notifier (800) to produce one or more acoustic signals in response to application of one or more activation signals by the controller and a plurality of electrical contacts coupled to the at least one auditory notifier to enable the application of the one or more activation signals to the at least one auditory notifier. The device also includes at least one housing retaining the at least one auditory notifier therein, the at least one housing being structured to resonate at least one of the one or more acoustic signals produced by the at least one auditory notifier in response to application of at least one of the one or more activation signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Ofer Yodfat, Shai Ben-David, Danna Perlman
  • Patent number: 8760272
    Abstract: An electric whistle has a power circuit, an inductor, an electric switch, a buzzer, a tone-set resistor and a sound IC. The sound IC generates an audio control signal to activate the electric switch. When the electric switch is activated, the inductor produces an induction voltage to activate the buzzer. The oscillation frequency of the audio control signal is determined by the single tone-set resistor without a capacitor. Therefore, few passive devices are used. The electric whistle of the present invention is compact and portable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Inventors: Yen-Hsiang Lien, Ting Yang
  • Patent number: 8689723
    Abstract: Discloses is a disk for a horn of a vehicle. The disk of the horn has a shape in which the whole region of the disk is divided into a plurality of regions having different vibration characteristics and has a structure in which the plurality of regions are disposed along a circumferential direction of the disk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: Ki Sang Chae, Jong Suh Park
  • Patent number: 8687835
    Abstract: The invention relates to an improved diaphragm securing mechanism in a sound wave generator system for an electric horn system that includes a monolithic rigid housing member having a receiving opening for fixably housing, in an non-removable and secure manner following assembly, a compressor member, thereby preventing unintended separation and improving a reliability of the electric horn system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Wolo Mfg. Corp.
    Inventor: Stanley Solow
  • Patent number: 8669852
    Abstract: A reflex speaker which provides an acoustic signal generator for acoustic alarm signals is captured in a housing through which the acoustic signals project via ports at the exit end of the housing. The housing defines a compartment at the exit end with an opening which is covered so that the acoustic signals project out of the exit end around the compartment. The cover may be a transparent cover which provides a lens through which optical signals generated by optics in the compartment provided by either LEDs to provide an optical warning signal, or a video camera, such as a CCD, which responds to visual signals as from hazards at the rear of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Star Headlight & Lantern Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Steven W. Neufeglise, Daniel T. McCann
  • Patent number: 8456321
    Abstract: A circuit is for checking the voltage of a battery. The circuit includes a regulator component, a pnp type transistor, an npn transistor, a diode, and an alarm. The circuit activates an alarm when the voltage of the battery is less than a preset value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yong-Zhao Huang
  • Patent number: 8325937
    Abstract: A battery and speaker mounting apparatus includes a base member including a battery socket positioned adjacent a support surface on the base member, and a speaker chamber defined by the base member and separated from the battery socket by the support surface. A speaker module may be mounted in the speaker chamber, and a battery may be coupled to the battery socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Dell Products L.P.
    Inventor: Eldho Kuriakose
  • Publication number: 20120242496
    Abstract: A circuit is for checking the voltage of a battery. The circuit includes a regulator component, a pnp type transistor, an npn transistor, a diode, and an alarm. The circuit activates an alarm when the voltage of the battery is less than a preset value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2011
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD.
    Inventor: YONG-ZHAO HUANG
  • Patent number: 8217767
    Abstract: A vehicular horn device of an existing electromagnetic type is used as a dynamic speaker so as to generate a false engine sound. The shortage of a low-pitched sound in a parametric speaker device is complemented with a false engine sound which the vehicular horn device generates. Thereby, without need of mounting a large-sized dynamic speaker such as a woofer in a vehicle, a false engine sound is generated so as to model for a real engine sound. In addition, as the vehicle approaches a pedestrian, a sound tone of the false engine sound which the pedestrian hears changes, enabling the pedestrian to easily notice the approach or presence of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventor: Toshiaki Nakayama
  • Patent number: 8149097
    Abstract: An electro-mechanical horn is configured with a body, a sound-generating unit mounted in the body, and a plurality of power source receiving regions for storing at least one removably mounted power source in a storage manner while containing a second power source in an operative manner thereby limiting discontinuity of the operation of the sound-generating unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Wolo Mfg. Corp.
    Inventor: Stanley Solow
  • Patent number: 8130086
    Abstract: A linear vibration generator is disclosed. The linear vibration generator may include: a stator having a coil, which induces a magnetic field when an electric current is applied; an oscillator having a magnet, which has one side facing the coil; a spring member, which is joined to the stator, and which elastically supports the oscillator such that the oscillator moves linearly; a damper, which prevents the oscillator from contacting the stator according to the linear motion of the oscillator; and a guide portion, which guides the linear motion of the oscillator. This linear vibration generator makes it possible to generate stable linear vibration, prevent generation of touch noise when the oscillator impacts the stator, and prevent right/left vibration due to an external impact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Samsung Electro-Mechanics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Joon Choi, Min-Young So, Hwa-Young Oh
  • Patent number: 8022799
    Abstract: A magnetic circuit unit includes a pole piece, a magnet, and a yoke and a suspension made of a magnetic material. A magnetic gap is formed between an inner circumferential side surface of the suspension and a circumference of the pole piece. Accordingly, it is possible to allow the magnet in the magnetic circuit unit to be thinly constructed. In addition, it is possible to implement a multi-function vibration actuator having a thin structure and capable of obtaining a sufficiently sensible vibration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Namiki Seimitsu Houseki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Minoru Ueda, Shoichi Kaneda, Kenji Ueno
  • Patent number: 8004390
    Abstract: An electromechanical horn is configured with a body, a sound-generating unit mounted in the body, and a plurality of power source receiving regions for storing at least one removably mounted power source in a storage manner while containing a second power source in an operative manner thereby limiting discontinuity of the operation of the sound-generating unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Wolo Mfg. Corp.
    Inventor: Stanley Solow
  • Patent number: 7956728
    Abstract: A sound production controller can include a horn device that performs a vibrating operation at a predetermined resonance frequency in response to a predetermined operation to produce a warning sound, an input section which receives a sound production command signal outputted in response to execution of a function that requires sound production in the vehicle other than the predetermined operation, and a sound production controller which, if the input section receives the sound production command, provides a high-frequency signal having a frequency higher than the predetermined resonance frequency to the horn device to cause the horn device to produce a sound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignees: Autonetworks Technologies, Ltd., Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd., Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Mitsuaki Kousaka, Masayuki Kato
  • Patent number: 7938078
    Abstract: The present electric horn system includes a monolithic rigid housing member having a receiving opening for fixably housing, in a non-removable and secure manner following assembly, a compressor member, thereby preventing unintended separation and improving a reliability of the electric horn system. An acoustic sound wave generator includes an acoustic duct chambering system associated throughout with the monolithic rigid housing member. The acoustic sound wave generator receives compressed air from the compressor member to produce sound and propagate the same externally. A horn mounting system enables ready attachment of the system to a consumer-desired surface: mechanically, magnetically, adhesively, or via any other known attachment or mounting system. Optional weather and water resistant systems prohibit unintended water access to the electric horn system enabling use of the system in exposed weather conditions for improved user convenience.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: Wolo Mfg. Corp.
    Inventor: Stanley Solow
  • Patent number: 7920069
    Abstract: A combined and integrated audible and visual signal. A signal case is constructed of a light transmissive material and includes an exposed front end cover with one or more sound transmitting apertures and a tubular wall extending transversely from the exposed end cover for extending through a hole in a mounting panel. A transducer is mounted within the tubular wall and includes a diaphragm that is spaced from the exposed cover. Light sources are mounted to face the diaphragm. The tubular wall in the region between the cover and a plane transverse to the tubular wall through the diaphragm is, in the axial direction, smoothly continuous with no angled bends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Floyd Bell Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Shain, Heather Gregg
  • Patent number: 7880593
    Abstract: The invention is an improved audible signaling device with a speaker, a sound chamber, and associated circuitry. The device creates a loud, audible fundamental frequency, and harmonic frequencies that are relatively equal in amplitude to the amplitude of the fundamental frequency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Mallory Sonalert Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher M. Baldwin, Daniel O'Brien, Mark T. Monnett
  • Patent number: 7880592
    Abstract: This invention realizes an incoming call notification operation for portable equipments in which the amplitude of vibration matches the rhythm of the melody, by electrically connecting an electromagnetic induction actuator that produces melody and vibration to an integrated circuit that outputs the melody generation signal and the vibration signal, and by applying to the electromagnetic induction actuator either the melody generation signal from the integrated circuit or a signal created by mixing the melody generation signal and the vibration generation signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Namiki Seimitsu Houseki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shoichi Kaneda, Kenji Ueno, Minoru Ueda
  • Patent number: 7876198
    Abstract: An adaptive intelligent electronic horn (100) comprises a mechanical soniferous apparatus (112), an electromagnetic coil (106), a driver circuit (104) and an oscillating circuit (102). A sensor (110) is provided between the mechanical soniferous apparatus (112) and the oscillating circuit (102). An on-off ratio adjusting circuit (108) is provided at the input end of the oscillating circuit (102). The sensor (110) measures the oscillation frequency of the mechanical soniferous apparatus (112) and feedbacks the measured oscillation frequency signal to the oscillating circuit (102). The on-off ratio adjusting circuit (108) controls a pulse width of an oscillation signal from the oscillating circuit (102) based on a voltage of power supply and/or an ambient temperature. The oscillating circuit (102) outputs corresponding oscillation signal to the driver circuit (104) based on the oscillation frequency signal received from the sensor (110) and/or the control signal from the on-off ratio adjusting circuit (108).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Inventor: Hongwei Zhao
  • Publication number: 20100301998
    Abstract: A multi-sensor alarm apparatus, system and method may prevent and/or may deter a theft and/or a removal of one or more articles from a display stand. A base, a main body and a head unit are provided. The base and the main body are secured to the display stand. The multi-sensor alarm apparatus monitors an integrity of the attachment of the main body to the base with a separation sensor. Further, the multi-sensor alarm apparatus monitors sensors connected to the head unit and/or to the main body. The sensors may be removed and/or added as needed depending on the articles to be secured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2009
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Inventors: Christopher Marszalek, Jim Groth, Daniel Horvath, Andy Reynolds, Edward T. Eaton, Kerry Berland, Try Ty, Mark Kmiecik
  • Patent number: 7802535
    Abstract: The present electric horn system includes a monolithic rigid housing member having a receiving opening for fixably housing, in an non-removable and secure manner following assembly, a compressor member, thereby preventing unintended separation and improving a reliability of the electric horn system. An acoustic sound wave generator includes an acoustic duct chambering system associated throughout with the monolithic rigid housing member. The acoustic sound wave generator receives compressed air from the compressor member to produce sound and propagate the same externally. A horn mounting system enables ready attachment of the system to a consumer-desired surface; either mechanically, magnetically, adhesively or via any other known attachment or mounting system. Optional weather and water resistant systems prohibit unintended water access to the electric horn system enabling use of the system in exposed weather conditions for improved user convenience.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Wolo Mfg. Corp.
    Inventor: Stanley Solow
  • Patent number: 7724127
    Abstract: A sound production controller can include a horn device that performs a vibrating operation at a predetermined resonance frequency in response to a predetermined operation to produce a warning sound, an input section which receives a sound production command signal outputted in response to execution of a function that requires sound production in the vehicle other than the predetermined operation, and a sound production controller which, if the input section receives the sound production command, provides a high-frequency signal having a frequency higher than the predetermined resonance frequency to the horn device to cause the horn device to produce a sound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignees: Autonetworks Technologies Ltd., Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd., Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Mitsuaki Kousaka, Masayuki Kato
  • Patent number: 7692346
    Abstract: A compact enclosed type vibrator capable of ensuring a large amount of vibration has a casing (5), a coil (10) and a magnetic circuit unit (11) provided in the casing, and a suspension (3) supporting the magnetic circuit unit. The magnetic circuit unit has an extent in the radial direction and has an outer peripheral surface set adjacent to the inner peripheral surface of the casing across an annular gap. At least one of the casing and the magnetic circuit unit is provided with a vent passage (13a and 13b) that additionally communicates between a first space (17) and a second space (18) formed at the upper and lower sides of the magnetic circuit unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Citizen Electronics Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Kobayashi, Hiroo Kajiwara
  • Publication number: 20100001033
    Abstract: A manual hammer tacker having a warning device involving an electric box having a buzzer or a light emitting diode (LED), and at least one battery with both conducting to each other by the electric wires to generate sound or light effect when only few U-shaped staples left during the working process. A reed switch is installed in the tacker and locates near the end route of the U-shaped staples, and is also conducted to the buzzer or the light emitting diode (LED), the battery and the metallic shell by the electric wires. Furthermore, a reed is formed on the pushing guide of the pusher assembly. At the moment when only few staples left, the reed on the pushing guide will be touched with the switch, so that the circuit will become a circuit loop and the buzzer will buzz or the light emitting diode (LED) will glitter to remind the user to reload the staples.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Inventor: Hsien-Cheng Chen
  • Patent number: 7609148
    Abstract: An actuator is provided that includes: a diaphragm that vibrates to generate sound; a housing that is attached to an outer edge of the diaphragm to support the diaphragm; an accommodating space that is formed inside the diaphragm and the housing, and an axis of which extends in a thickness direction of the diaphragm in the middle of the diaphragm; a coil that is wound around the axis, is attached to a face of the diaphragm facing the accommodating space, and is disposed in the accommodating space; a movable body that is disposed in a radial inside space of the coil or on an extension of the space, within the accommodating space; and a spring that supports the movable body such that the movable body is movable in the axial direction within the accommodating space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Kouichiro Takashima, Shun Kayama, Minoru Nakano, Yukiko Shimizu
  • Publication number: 20090174564
    Abstract: A dust detecting circuit includes a sampling circuit and an alarm circuit. The sampling circuit has a first voltage amplifying circuit, a voltage comparing circuit, and a second voltage amplifying circuit. An input of the first voltage amplifying circuit is connected to an output of a dust sensor; two inputs of the voltage comparing circuit are respectively connected to a power supply for receiving a reference voltage and an output of the first voltage amplifying circuit. An output of the voltage comparing circuit is connected to an input of the second voltage amplifying circuit. An alarm circuit is connected to an output of the second voltage amplifying circuit. When the amount of the dust is more than a pre-determined threshold, a high level voltage signal is output from the sampling circuit to the alarm circuit, and the alarm circuit activates an alarm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Han-Qiao Hu
  • Patent number: 7547140
    Abstract: The electronic thermometer of this invention includes a supporting portion which supports the vicinity of the periphery on one face of a vibration plate, and a buzzer cover having flexibility for pressing the vibration plate against the supporting portion by pressing the vicinity of the periphery of the other face of the vibration plate and further includes a mechanism which presses the vicinity of the center of the buzzer cover on an opposite side to a side provided with the vibration plate in the buzzer cover so as to flex the buzzer cover, thereby pressing the vicinity of the periphery on the other face of the vibration plate with elastic reaction force of the buzzer cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Assignee: OMRON Healthcare Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shigeto Niiyama, Masaki Tomioka, Akitoshi Miki, Takao Terada
  • Patent number: 7528702
    Abstract: A vibrator assembly includes an electric motor, a shaft driven by the motor, and a cylindrical weight coaxially positioned on the shaft free end, wherein the cylindrical weight has a center of gravity that is radially offset from the shaft axis. The cylindrical weight includes a first portion that is lighter in weight than a second portion. When the vibrator assembly is installed within an electronic device, the cylindrical shape of the weight limits the amount of shaft deflection that can occur when the electronic device is dropped or subjected to other impact forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications AB
    Inventors: Gustav Fagrenius, Göran Schack
  • Publication number: 20080258883
    Abstract: An electro-mechanical horn is configured with a body, a sound-generating unit mounted in the body, and a plurality of power source receiving regions for storing at least one removably mounted power source in a storage manner while containing a second power source in an operative manner thereby limiting discontinuity of the operation of the sound-generating unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2008
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventor: Stanley Solow
  • Patent number: 7408444
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sound-reproducing transducer (60) connected to a printed circuit (50). This transducer (60) has the shape of a hollow cylinder whose cylindrical wall (66) delimits two circular faces, one front face (66c) and one rear face (66d) that are opposed and planar. The transducer (60) comprises at least one diaphragm (64) that makes it possible to convert electric signals into sound waves and conversely. This diaphragm (64) is a circular membrane parallel to the front face (66c) and rear face (66d) of the transducer (60). The diaphragm (64) delimits two distinct volumes in the transducer (60), the first volume being bordered on one side by the circular face (66c) of the transducer (60) and on the other by the diaphragm (64) while forming a front acoustic cavity (61), and the second volume being bordered on one side by the circular face (66d) of the transducer (60) and on the other by the diaphragm (64) while forming a rear acoustic cavity (62).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: T & A Mobile Phones Limited
    Inventors: Stéphane Dufosse, Jean-Christophe Villain, Eric Menu, Yves Le Baudour
  • Patent number: 7387079
    Abstract: A horn assembly is disclosed. The horn assembly includes a shutter than can cooperate with a horn valve. The shutter disposed on an end portion of the horn assembly can help seal the horn assembly and prevent moisture, rain or debris from entering the interior of the horn assembly. In operation, the shutter can be moved to allow the horn to provide a signal. After the horn has completed operation, the shutter can be moved back to its original sealing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: William Kruse
  • Patent number: 7385483
    Abstract: A method and system for detecting the presence of subterranean termites, involving use of a thermal imaging camera to scan the structure before installation of an acoustic sensor in order to quickly locate potential areas of subterranean termite infestation, and an acoustic sensor in the form of an accelerometer or the disclosed innovative acoustic sensors having a bandwidth of at least 100 Hz to 15 kHz to detect noises made by the subterranean termites. Information collected by the acoustic sensor may be transmitted to a portable mini-computer (pocket PC) for confirmation and to a central operations center for inclusion in a comprehensive database of termite data and information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: The University of Mississippi
    Inventor: Peng Lee