Abstract: A directional microphone system includes a microphone assembly designed to be mounted from a ceiling or other raised surface through a reeling mechanism used to deploy the microphone assembly to a lowered position, preferably just above eye level of a speaker. The microphone assembly includes an outer housing encapsulating multiple audio detection elements or capsules which are specifically angled relative to each other and the horizontal in order to optimize targeted audio reception. With a preferred arrangement, three audio detection (microphone) elements are secured through with a wishbone frame mounted in the outer housing, with each element being at about a 60° angle to the horizontal to provide enhanced horizontal coverage.

Abstract: An air cushioned microphone cable retractor and receptacle assembly for use in controlling the deployment and retraction of a limited length of microphone cable includes a hollow cylindrical housing portion, in which a pulley mounted to a piston is disposed. A microphone cable is connected to the pulley, and then to the microphone, which is configured to reside in a top receptacle when not in use. In use, the microphone may be pulled out and away from the receptacle, at which time air above the piston is permitted to readily escape from above while the overall resistance is determined by operation of a lower relief valve. When the microphone is placed back in the receptacle, the weight of the piston pulls the cable back within the housing, with air venting structure providing an air damping feature to slow the retraction of the cable.

Abstract: An air cushioned microphone cable retractor and receptacle assembly for use in controlling the deployment and retraction of a limited length of microphone cable includes a hollow cylindrical housing portion, in which a pulley mounted to a piston is disposed. A microphone cable is connected to the pulley, and then to the microphone, which is configured to reside in a top receptacle when not in use. In use, the microphone may be pulled out and away from the receptacle, at which time air above the piston is permitted to readily escape from above while the overall resistance is determined by operation of a lower relief valve. When the microphone is placed back in the receptacle, the weight of the piston pulls the cable back within the housing, with air venting structure providing an air damping feature to slow the retraction of the cable.

Abstract: A reeling device includes a housing having multiple chambers within which are respectively mounted, for rotation in unison, main and secondary reels. Preferably the main and secondary reels include a common hub member that is formed with a hole extending therethrough from the main reel to the secondary reel. A single length of cable is wound upon the two reels with a first end portion of the cable being coiled upon the main reel, an intermediate portion thereof extending through the hole formed in the common hub member and a second end portion of the cable being coiled about the secondary reel. The second end portion of the cable is substantially shorter than the first end portion and includes an end that is fixed to the housing.