Auditorium Patents (Class 181/30)
  • Patent number: 11692345
    Abstract: A modular dynamic acoustic system for use in connection with an indoor environment includes a movable panel array, a support structure, and a plurality of suspension members. The movable panel array includes a plurality of panel members, each of which including a body defining at least one edge, at least one hinge positioned along the at least one edge, and at least one mounting structure. The panel members are operably coupled with at least one adjacent panel member via the at least one hinge. Each of the plurality of suspension members is operably coupled with the support structure and the at least one mounting structure of one of the plurality of panel members to secure the movable panel array to the support structure. Each of the suspension members is movable to modify a configuration of the movable panel array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2023
    Assignee: USG INTERIORS, LLC
    Inventors: Oksana Gritcai, Stephen Hettwer
  • Patent number: 11199002
    Abstract: An elongate acoustic panel for installation in an interior space comprising at least one acoustic surface, an edge region adjacent to the at least one acoustic surface, and a distribution of one or more LED's along the edge region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2021
    Assignee: Axis Lighting Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Bou Harb, Suzanne Massoud, Howard Yaphe, Andrew Miles, Jean Gagne
  • Patent number: 11136734
    Abstract: A sound barrier system for use in mitigating noise having an origami sheet or origami-inspired mechanism that can use folding to change configuration and lattice topology; and a plurality of cylindrical inclusions disposed on top of the origami sheet. The plurality of cylindrical inclusions being periodically arranged such that folding kinematics of the origami sheet induces reconfiguration of the periodicity of the plurality of cylindrical inclusions and associated wave blocking of the noise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2021
    Assignee: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN
    Inventors: Manoj Thota, Suyi Li, Kon-Well Wang
  • Patent number: 10989226
    Abstract: A fan optimizing acoustic characteristics includes a yoke adapted to secure the fan to a building member and a central support structure extending from the yoke. The central support structure is an elongated member having a first end and a second end, the first end being selectively secured to the yoke and the second end extending downwardly therefrom. A fan assembly is secured to the second end of the central support structure. The fan also includes a plurality of sound absorbing elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2021
    Inventor: Dennis A Tracy
  • Patent number: 10978036
    Abstract: A sound absorbing cell according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is formed of a plurality of plates that are stacked while interposing an air layer therebetween, wherein the plurality of plates include: a reflective plate that is disposed outermost from a space where sound is generated; and a microperforated plate that is stacked on the reflective plate and having a plurality of holes perforated therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Assignee: KOREA INSTITUTE OF MACHINERY & MATERIALS
    Inventors: Hyun-Sil Kim, Pyung-Sik Ma, Yun-Ho Seo, Seong-Hyun Lee, Sang Ryul Kim, Bong-Ki Kim, Jae Seung Kim
  • Patent number: 10975568
    Abstract: Ceiling tiles for drop ceilings and drop ceilings with such tiles are disclosed. The ceiling tiles have a main portion that is sized and adapted to fit within a grid of the drop ceiling, and a baffle that hangs down from the main portion. The ceiling tiles may be arranged such that they can be made, shipped, and sold in a flat configuration and folded into a three-dimensional configuration with the down-hanging baffle for installation. For example, a sheet of tile material may have a plurality of fold lines defined in it that allow the sheet to fold in such a way as to define the main portion and the baffle. In the flat configuration, the sheet of tile material may have the dimensions of a standard drop ceiling tile; in the folded configuration, the ceiling tiles may also have standard ceiling-tile dimensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2021
    Assignee: FACT Design, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel Monier, Charles J. Monier
  • Patent number: 10961700
    Abstract: A noise reduction apparatus can include a frame and multiple spaced apart panels positioned adjacent to each other. Each of the panels or only one of the spaced apart panel elements may have holes therein to receive acoustic waves for absorbing the waves between the panels. The panels can be attached to a frame or other connection structure so that the arrangement of panels can be hung over a work space or positioned in a work space (e.g. in a wall, formed as a partition or wall, included as part of shelving, etc.). The panels can also be incorporated into a light fixture that may hang from a ceiling or be attached to some other type of support (e.g. a table, a base, etc.). The panels can be composed of glass, wood, or other type of material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Assignee: Knoll, Inc.
    Inventors: Masamichi Udagawa, Sigrid Moeslinger, Benjamin A. Pardo, Roger Wall
  • Patent number: 10767365
    Abstract: An acoustic absorber includes a chamber formed from walls with a resistive portion providing the only communication between the chamber volume and ambient air. In some examples chamber walls enable selection or adjustment of chamber volume or resistive area, thereby altering the acoustic absorption spectrum below 250 Hz. In some examples the chamber volume contains fibrous filler material exhibiting no airflow resistance or acoustic absorption. Density and heat capacity of the fibrous filler material results in the chamber volume exhibiting compressibility of air within the chamber, for at least acoustic frequencies up to about 50 Hz, that is larger than adiabatic compressibility of air. That larger compressibility results in an increased acoustic absorption coefficient, for at least acoustic frequencies up to about 50 Hz, 50% to 100% larger than that of an identical chamber entirely characterized by the adiabatic compressibility of air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2020
    Inventor: Arthur Mandarich Noxon, IV
  • Patent number: 10760265
    Abstract: A variable acoustic system for selectively controlling acoustic properties of an environment. Said variable acoustic system comprises a two side portions, a back portions and a variable expansion assembly. Said variable acoustic system further comprises a shell and a plurality of absorbers. Said variable acoustic system is configured to selectively transition through a one or more configurations. Said one or more configurations comprises at least a closed configuration and an open configuration. Said closed configuration comprises said two side portions closed with said shell exposed. Said open configuration comprises said two side portions open with a portion of said plurality of absorbers exposed. Said shell configured to reflect more acoustic energy than said plurality of absorbers. Said two side portions comprise a first side portion and a second side portion. Said two side portions each comprise at least an outer portions and a back absorbers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Inventor: Joab Jay Perdue
  • Patent number: 10755685
    Abstract: A luminaire can include a power source housing that houses at least one light fixture component. The luminaire can also include a light engine tray disposed proximate to the power source housing. The luminaire further can include a first acoustic feature coupled to the power source housing and the light engine tray, where the first acoustic feature comprises a first side wall having a first configuration, where the first configuration of the first side wall absorbs sound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Assignee: SIGNIFY HOLDING B.V.
    Inventors: Ashley Pickens, Gregory Parker, Timothy Bingaman
  • Patent number: 10672416
    Abstract: An audio transmitter includes a first ultrasonic speaker associated with a first channel; a second ultrasonic speaker co-located with the first ultrasonic speaker and associated with a second channel; and a waveform generator to: frequency modulate a first inaudible signal at a first ultrasonic frequency, to generate a modulated inaudible signal; drive, over the first channel, the first ultrasonic speaker with the modulated inaudible signal; and drive, over the second channel, the second ultrasonic speaker with a second inaudible signal at a second ultrasonic frequency so that a combination of the modulated inaudible signal and the second inaudible signal arrive at a microphone system. The second ultrasonic frequency is selected to frequency shift the modulated inaudible signal, upon demodulation by hardware of the microphone system, causing non-linearities of the hardware to translate the first ultrasonic frequency to below a low-pass filter cutoff frequency that is recordable by the microphone system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois
    Inventors: Nirupam Roy, Romit Roy Choudhury, Haitham Al Hassanieh
  • Patent number: 10672376
    Abstract: A luminaire can include a power source housing that houses at least one light fixture component. The luminaire can also include a light engine tray disposed proximate to the power source housing. The luminaire further can include a first acoustic feature coupled to the power source housing and the light engine tray, where the first acoustic feature comprises a first side wall having a first configuration, where the first configuration of the first side wall absorbs sound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: Eaton Intelligent Power Limited
    Inventors: Ashley Pickens, Gregory Parker, Timothy Bingaman
  • Patent number: 10580396
    Abstract: An exemplary inventive acoustic wall panel includes a pair of congruent flat rectangular plates and a housing. The two plates adjoin at their respective vertical edges to form an angle Ø between the two plates, wherein 90°?Ø<180°. Each plate has a material characteristic relating to acoustic reduction through the plate. Design of an inventive wall panel includes selection of the angle Ø and the respective plate materials, with an objective of producing counteractive acoustic vibratory motions in the two plates in response to sound waves impinging upon the inventive wall panel. Acoustic vibratory motion is induced in each plate whereby the respective vibratory motions tend to oppose each other, thereby reducing sound transmission across the inventive wall panel. The housing lends support to the two attached plates and facilitates connection of the inventive wall panel to another inventive wall panel or to a different structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2020
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: James M. Quigley, Christopher T. Buckingham
  • Patent number: 10255900
    Abstract: Systems, apparatuses, and methods for diffusing sound can comprise a sound or acoustic diffuser or a plurality of sound or acoustic diffusers. The acoustic diffuser can be provided as a 90 degree segment to fit into an inside corner, and a plurality of 90 degree segments can be arranged relative to each other to effectively provide 180 degree, 270 degree, or 360 degree contiguous acoustic diffusers, where the 180 degree acoustic diffuser can be arranged relative to a flat wall, and the 270 degree acoustic diffuser can be arranged relative to an outside corner. Furthermore, each 90 degree segment, or contiguous combination of segments, can have vertically stacked thereon (or be vertically stacked on) another segment of same construction, in freestanding fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2019
    Assignee: ACOUSTIC FIRST CORPORATION
    Inventors: James John DeGrandis, Samuel Jennings Colleran
  • Patent number: 9968850
    Abstract: A system configured to provide one or more virtual spaces that are accessible to users. The system may implement a markup language to communicate information between various components. The markup language may enable the communication of information between components of the system via markup elements. A markup element may include a discrete unit of information that includes both content and attributes associated with the content. The implementation of the markup language may enable the instantiation of virtual spaces, and the conveyance to users of views of an instantiated virtual space via a distributed architecture in which the components (e.g., a server capable of instantiating virtual spaces, and a client capable of providing an interface between a user and a virtual space) are capable of providing virtual spaces with a broader range of characteristics than components in conventional systems capable of providing virtual spaces that are accessible to users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2018
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Raph Koster
  • Patent number: 9959857
    Abstract: A flexible acoustic barrier for suspending from a support frame wherein the flexible acoustic barrier comprises a portion of acoustic insulation material and at least one loudspeaker that is configured to emit an audible sound-masking signal to mask sound from a sound source. Another aspect of the invention comprises a corresponding method of mitigating noise pollution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: RVT GROUP LIMITED
    Inventor: Timothy Chattell
  • Patent number: 9932736
    Abstract: According to the present invention, an acoustic deck includes a deck member defining a cavity and a movable tunable insert disposed at least partially within the cavity of the deck member. The tunable insert is rotatable or translatable relative to the deck member to alter acoustic effects of the acoustic deck. The acoustic deck can be installed in a room, and the acoustic tunable insert rotated or translated in order to achieve desired acoustic effects in the room. Also disclosed is a system of acoustic decks and a method of operating the acoustic deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Epic Metals Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas G. Ryan, David F. Landis
  • Patent number: 9854065
    Abstract: A system configured to provide one or more virtual spaces that are accessible to users. The virtual spaces may be provided such that an enhanced level of interactivity between the virtual spaces and the Web, including resources that communicate with the system via the Internet (e.g., via users, websites, webpages, other web resources, etc.) and/or other networks. To provide this enhanced level of interactivity, the system may enable interactions between an instance of a virtual space and the Web (e.g., queries, commands, communication, administrative controls, etc.) via a standard web protocol, such as a HyperText Transfer Protocol (e.g., http, https, etc.) and/or other standard web protocols. Since interactions take place between the instance of the virtual space and the Web via a standard web protocol, the instance of the virtual space may interact directly with Web resources such as web servers, web browsers, websites, webpages, and/or other Web resources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Raphael Koster, Sean Riley, John Donham
  • Patent number: 9550121
    Abstract: A system and method for providing virtual spaces, where a character associated with a user can be manifested within instances of a plurality of the different virtual spaces. Since a single character can be manifested within instances of different virtual spaces, the character can be transferred by the corresponding user between instances of different virtual spaces and controlled by the user to interact with the different virtual spaces. When the user transfers the character between instances of different virtual spaces (and/or different types of virtual spaces), various aspects of the character may persist between the different virtual spaces (and/or the different types of virtual spaces). This may provide an enhanced continuity to the character between the different virtual spaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Raph Koster, John Donham, Sean Riley
  • Patent number: 9403087
    Abstract: A system and method for associating virtual spaces with physical analogs in the real world. Associating virtual spaces with physical analogs may enable various aspects of the virtual spaces, such as the content of the virtual spaces, the manner in which the virtual spaces are accessed by users, and/or other aspects of the virtual spaces, to correspond to the real world. For example, upon initiation of a client that provides a view of one or more virtual spaces to a user, the user may automatically be provided with a view of a virtual space associated with one or more physical analogs that are proximate to the user in the real world. As another example, content within the virtual space may reflect ambient conditions at or near associated physical analog(s), the presence and/or condition of objects at or near the associated physical analog(s), the location and/or condition of the physical analog(s), and/or other information related to the physical analog in the real world.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignee: DISNEY ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventor: Sean Riley
  • Patent number: 9322165
    Abstract: A dynamic passive acoustic panel device comprises an enclosure having a front opening, an absorbent panel of sound absorbent material mounted in the enclosure behind the front opening, and a reflective surface mounted in the front opening in front of the absorbent panel. The reflective surface comprises a tessellated array of reflective panels of matching shape arranged in a series of rows, each row being mounted for rotation about a central axis so as to vary the angle of inclination of the reflective panels in each row relative to the absorbent panel from zero degrees to ninety degrees to the absorbent panel, so as to vary the reflection and absorption characteristics of the panel device. A control system controls rotation of the rows of reflective panels, so as to vary the reflection and absorption levels between maximum reflection and maximum absorption based on desired acoustic properties of a space in which the panel device is located.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Erik J. Luhtala
  • Patent number: 9260863
    Abstract: A dynamic responsive acoustic tuning envelope system that includes a movably connected set of cells, each possessing sound reflecting, sound absorbing, and/or electro-acoustic properties, and which are assembled according to the principles of rigid origami. So configured, the system is capable of both localized surficial deformation to alter the material surface exposure, transform its textural profile, and alter the enclosed volume of space in a single material envelope, thereby tuning the acoustics of the environment in which the system resides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN
    Inventors: Geoffrey Thun, Elizabeth Sauve, Raj Patel, Terence Caulkins, David Rife
  • Patent number: 9218800
    Abstract: A sound transmission material is made of fibers entangled with each other and has a self-standing property and a high performance sound transmission property, namely the TABER™ stiffness is not less than 5 mN×m, the bending resistance is not less than 100 mN, the porosity is not less than 50%, and the thickness is not more than 3 mm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2015
    Assignee: Tomoegawa Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Fukushi Kawakami, Takayuki Sano
  • Patent number: 9100249
    Abstract: A system configured to provide one or more virtual spaces that are accessible to users. The virtual spaces may be provided such that an enhanced level of interactivity between the virtual spaces and the Web, including resources that communicate with the system via the Internet (e.g., via users, websites, webpages, other web resources, etc.) and/or other networks. To provide this enhanced level of interactivity, the system may enable interactions between an instance of a virtual space and the Web (e.g., queries, commands, communication, administrative controls, etc.) via a standard web protocol, such as a HyperText Transfer Protocol (e.g., http, https, etc.) and/or other standard web protocols. Since interactions take place between the instance of the virtual space and the Web via a standard web protocol, the instance of the virtual space may interact directly with Web resources such as web servers, web browsers, websites, webpages, and/or other Web resources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Assignee: Metaplace, Inc.
    Inventors: Raph Koster, Sean Riley, John Donham
  • Patent number: 9084047
    Abstract: A system for enhancing sound provided by a pair of speakers relative to a listener includes a support structure, a first panel, and a second panel. The first panel is a material having a sound reflective surface and is disposed upright relative to the ground and the listener by the support structure. The first panel extends between a first area proximate a first speaker and a second area proximate the listener. The second panel is a material having a sound reflective surface and is disposed upright relative to the ground and the listener by the support structure. The second panel extends between a third area proximate a second speaker and a fourth area proximate the listener. The first panel and the second panel are shaped such that sound waves emitted laterally from the first speaker and the second speaker are reflected and focused toward the listener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2015
    Inventor: Richard O'Polka
  • Patent number: 9014390
    Abstract: A communication system for communicating with at least one loudspeaker is described where the loudspeaker is connected to audio equipment over standard two-wire speaker wire operable to carry an audio signal. The communication system includes a master node in electrical communication with a signal path carrying the audio signal between the audio equipment and the loudspeaker, the master node also including an interface with the audio equipment, a data encoder operable to encode data signals, a data transceiver operable to place the data signals onto the audio signal at frequencies above audio frequencies. The communication system also includes at least one slave node in electrical communication with the audio signal and each loudspeaker, the slave node including a data transceiver operable to receive data signals from the master node, a data decoder, and an interface able to communicate with the loudspeaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation
    Inventor: Joel Butler
  • Patent number: 8978816
    Abstract: A temporary building structure is provided. The temporary building structure includes a top wall and an opposing floor surface covered by the top wall. The top wall and the floor surface define a first building area and a second building area. The first building area includes a floor surface configured to receive a sound source. The structure further includes a portable sound limiting acoustic shell including an acoustic canopy covering at least a portion of the first building area in which the sound source is positioned. The acoustic canopy is positioned proximate the floor surface, such that the acoustic canopy concentrates sound generated by the sound source within the first building area and isolates the generated sound from the second building area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Inventor: Benjamin Slotznick
  • Patent number: 8960367
    Abstract: An acoustic panel for diffusing sound waves, the acoustic panel comprising: a panel front surface and a substantially opposed panel back surface; the panel front surface defining a plurality of front surface regions each delimited by a respective front surface region perimeter, each of the front surface regions being curved. The sound waves incoming at the panel front surface are diffused by the panel front surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Inventor: Jean Leclerc
  • Patent number: 8875837
    Abstract: A musical performance riser having an interior area and a rigid block made from multiple layers of foam material of varying densities incorporated within that area. The block further includes a number of holes or chambers to trap sound. When the riser is used in performances, sound waves created by the object placed on the riser are reduced or dissipated as they travel down the block through the foam layers and chambers with the result being reduced acoustic interference and a better listening experience for the audience. The riser also includes specialized removable casters supported against rubber isolation feet that further serve to reduce the unwanted interference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventors: Thomas Moore, Charles Nelson, Gary Messisco
  • Patent number: 8807270
    Abstract: A loudspeaker cabinet (2) includes a device for mechanical connection to another loudspeaker cabinet and/or a device (8) for adjusting an angle formed between the cabinet (2) and the other cabinet. The connection device includes a mechanism for the conversion of a translational actuation control in a first direction into a translational movement of at least one first latch in a second direction different from the first direction. The angle adjustment device includes an element (8) the length of which in the operating position adjusts the angle and is determined according to the position of a rotary component (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Nexo
    Inventor: Christophe Givre
  • Publication number: 20140174845
    Abstract: A temporary building structure is provided. The temporary building structure includes a top wall and an opposing floor surface covered by the top wall. The top wall and the floor surface define a first building area and a second building area. The first building area includes a floor surface configured to receive a sound source. The structure further includes a portable sound limiting acoustic shell including an acoustic canopy covering at least a portion of the first building area in which the sound source is positioned. The acoustic canopy is positioned proximate the floor surface, such that the acoustic canopy concentrates sound generated by the sound source within the first building area and isolates the generated sound from the second building area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2013
    Publication date: June 26, 2014
    Inventor: Benjamin SLOTZNICK
  • Patent number: 8646571
    Abstract: An apparatus for creating acoustically beneficial conditions for audio and voice recording on the go, in limited space and/or time conditions with sound absorbing inner layer made out of flexible durable material such as acoustic blankets. A preferred embodiment includes supportive rigid elements, internal light and copy support elements and durable outer layer. Acoustic layer can be extended to increase the area of coverage, it can be set up and operational from folded down transportation state in under 20 seconds and put away as quickly, it is light weight, washable and can be used as a travel bag when traveling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventor: Adil Aliyevich Aliev
  • Patent number: 8642869
    Abstract: The invention provides a sound reduction enclosure for hi-hat cymbal assemblies, enclosure which can be fastened directly to the hi-hat stand to greatly reduce sound leakage and offer more precise control of sound emissions during recording sessions and live performances. The enclosure is made up of two (2) primary elements: 1—the main, funnel-shaped body that attaches to the hi-hat stand and surrounds the cymbal assembly, containing and allowing control of the sound; 2—the different lids that provide yet greater sound reduction and control. With or without its lid, the invention allows the user to both: 1—activate the hi-hat cymbals using the pedal; 2—strike the hi-hat cymbals using the drumsticks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventor: Luc Prefontaine
  • Patent number: 8607925
    Abstract: A wedge-shaped, number theoretical acoustic diffuser both diffuses and reflects sound while eliminating wasted space created by prior art. The inventive diffuser consists of wells of continuously variable depths which provide wide-bandwidth diffusion in a single dimension. The back of the wells are reflective planes of a plurality of angles that direct energy away from the sound source. The invention may be installed in the upper corners of a room, with the deepest end of the wedge-shape up and tapering down to the thinnest end of the wedge shape. This installation allows floor standing furniture or other objects to be placed against the wall, an impossibility with the installation of prior art. The present invention may be installed as an array in which the deepest ends of the wedge shape are butted together. This formation splits and reflects sound in two different directions both away from the sound source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventor: Hendrik David Gideonse
  • Patent number: 8590666
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a rigging component and method for connecting an array element in an array. The rigging component includes an elongate housing connectable to an array element; a connection link disposed within, and slidably extendable from, one end of the housing; a conduit extending into the housing from its opposite end, the conduit dimensioned to receive another connection link extending from an adjacent rigging component; and at least one latching device associated with the conduit for releasably retaining the other connection link within the conduit. Further disclosed is a system for connecting an array element in an array. The system comprises at least one rigging component having a connection link extendable to be locked at a single fixed distance and at least one rigging component having a connection link extendable to be locked at one of a plurality of fixed distances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Adamson Systems Engineering Inc.
    Inventors: Alan Brock Adamson, Ben Cabot, Ewan James McDonald
  • Patent number: 8430199
    Abstract: A performance shell (1) for outdoor music performance including a platform (2) providing a performance area for receiving at least one sound source, the platform combining unitarily with a rear wall reflectors (5), side wall reflector (6) and a canopy reflector (7) to define an enclosure having a front opening (11) for communicating acoustically with an open air audience area. The canopy reflector includes a main portion (8) extending above the performance area and a projecting portion (9) projecting forwardly of a front edge of the performance area, the canopy reflector further including sound diffusion formations (13) on an underside of the main portion and the projecting portion and adapted to provide non-specular reflection of sound from the at least one sound source for enhancing sound received both in the performance area and the audience area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Sound Forms PLC
    Inventors: Mark Stephenson, Jason Flanagan, Paul Bavister, Ian Knowles
  • Patent number: 8316986
    Abstract: A sound attenuation canopy for reducing levels of sound passing through an opening comprises a sound absorbing member. The member is comprised of a flexible sound absorbing material and has a first end, a second end and an intermediate portion extending therebetween. The first end is configured to attach to the opening's periphery at a first location, the second end is configured to attach to the periphery at a second location and the intermediate portion is configured to be spaced apart from the opening. When the first end and the second end are attached to the periphery of the opening, at least one side opening is at least partially defined by the intermediate portion and the perimeter of the opening, and a sound transmission flow path through open space between the opening and the side opening comprises at least one change of direction greater than 45 degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services
    Inventors: Judit A. Quasney, Franklin Koh, John P. Jenkins, Robert M. Alexander, Daniel P. O'Brien
  • Patent number: 8162104
    Abstract: A device for reducing noise pollution includes an acoustic panel (1) and at least one member (3) for elastically holding the panel (1). This holding member (3) includes: first and second mounting elements (8) for installing the same between a support (2) and panel (1), a spring portion (6) provided between the first and second mounting elements, a tab (7) having one end connected to the second mounting element (5) and bearing, at a distance from the end, the first mounting element (8) so that movement (D) of the acoustic panel (1) perpendicularly to the main faces (14A, 14B) thereof is permitted by an elastic deformation of the spring portion (6) in the tilting direction of the tab (7) relative to the second mounting element (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: AE2S
    Inventors: Bernard Bastion, Edmond Benarrous
  • Patent number: 8100225
    Abstract: An acoustic treatment room dampening panel 10 is arranged to support at least three layers of material 3 with multiple through holes 2. Each layer of material with through holes are spaced apart, with through holes off set between layers, such that air flow is restricted and turbulence created, thus dissipating standing wave energy. The panels are intended for flush mounting against walls or ceiling at the apex of a room to help dissipate standing wave energy which stands up in the corners of a room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Nucore Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew Bartha, Andrew E Flanders
  • Patent number: 8028791
    Abstract: A sound reflective acoustic panel includes a panel having a scored surface. The scored surface includes a plurality of substantially parallel spaced apart kerfs. The kerfs are configured to allow the panel to flex. A plurality of support ribs are attached to the scored surface of the panel. The plurality of support ribs have a curved shape and a length. A suspension mechanism is attached to the support ribs and is suitable for mounting the panel to a building support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Owens Corning Intellectual Capital, LLC
    Inventors: Dennis R. Kliegle, Alfonso E. Perez
  • Patent number: 7967103
    Abstract: An attachment apparatus for forming an arrangement comprising a plurality of loudspeaker boxes hanging one above the other comprises a latching connection by means of which two loudspeaker boxes which are adjacent in the arrangement can be connected together at a pre-selectable angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: d&b audiotechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Frank Bothe
  • Patent number: 7921960
    Abstract: The present invention is an acoustic cabinet for the storage of musical instruments. Acoustic cabinet can have a storage portion having a plurality of individual storage units contained therein. One or more grill doors can cover the open end of acoustic cabinet. The size, shape, and arrangement of grill bars of door can be configured to reduce the effect of resonance. Rear panel of acoustic cabinet can include one or more sound-absorbing panels that absorb sound as it passes through acoustic cabinet. A protective backing can also be disposed between sound-absorbing panels and individual storage spaces to protect the panels from damage when instruments and other objects are inserted into the storage spaces. A combination of a grill door and sound-absorbing panels can allow acoustic cabinet to have a net-absorptive effect on a rehearsal room. One or more acoustic cabinets can be strategically positioned throughout a rehearsal room for optimal acoustic performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Wenger Corporation
    Inventors: Kenneth E. Jacobson, Peter F. Menzel, Rebecca S. Broton, Mark R. Friedrichs, Ronald R. Freiheit
  • Patent number: 7918312
    Abstract: A portable acoustic reflective panel assembly used as a background for outdoor performances has an upright frame surrounding a sound reflecting sheet member. A plurality of elastic cords secure the sheet member to the frame. Braces connected to the frame and anchored to the ground maintain the frame and sheet member in upright positions on the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Inventor: Gregory L. Carlson
  • Patent number: 7905323
    Abstract: The invention relates to sound-absorbing devices, assemblies and systems and corresponding methods for altering the reverberation time of a room, specifically although not necessarily exclusively at low frequencies. A sound-absorbing device according to the invention comprises basically a body containing one or more cavities (4), where at least a portion of the outer surface of the body is in contact with said sound field S and where said body is inflatable/extendable and collapsible/compressible during the supply of a gas to or the removal of the gas from said at least one cavity (4), respectively, whereby the absorption coefficient (a) and/or the resonance frequency of said body can be varied, thus determining the absorption coefficient and/or the frequency region in which maximum absorption will take place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Inventor: Niels Werner Larsen
  • Publication number: 20110024225
    Abstract: A performance shell for outdoor music performance comprises a platform providing a performance area for receiving at least one sound source, the platform combining unitarily with a rear wall reflectors, side wall reflector and a canopy reflector to define an enclosure having a front opening for communicating acoustically with an open air audience area. The canopy reflector comprises a main portion extending above the performance area and a projecting portion projecting forwardly of a front edge of the performance area, the canopy reflector further comprising sound diffusion formations on an underside of the main portion and the projecting portion and adapted to provide non-specular reflection of sound from the at least one sound source for enhancing sound received both in the performance area and the audience area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2009
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Applicant: Sound Forms Litd., c/o Woodside Corporate Services Ltd.
    Inventors: Mark Stephenson, Jason Flanagan, Paul Bavister, Ian Knowles
  • Patent number: 7815011
    Abstract: A movable acoustic shell assembly comprises a ground-supported crane and an acoustic shell mounted on the ground-supported crane. The crane is configured to move in a self-propelled and self-directed manner between a storage position and an in-use position within a performing arts venue. When the crane is in the in-use position, the sound shell substantially encloses a rear portion of a stage within the performing arts venue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Holzman Moss Architecture, LLP
    Inventors: Malcolm Holzman, Delia Nevola, Bradley A. Lukanic
  • Publication number: 20090314574
    Abstract: A movable acoustic shell assembly comprises a ground-supported crane and an acoustic shell mounted on the ground-supported crane. The crane is configured to move in a self-propelled and self-directed manner between a storage position and an in-use position within a performing arts venue. When the crane is in the in-use position, the sound shell substantially encloses a rear portion of a stage within the performing arts venue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Inventors: Malcolm HOLZMAN, Delia NEVOLA, Bradley A. LUKANIC
  • Patent number: 7610810
    Abstract: Embodiments include an acoustic source for use in a hemi-anechoic chamber comprising a source assembly and a waveguide assembly for producing sound outside of a measurement hemisphere and channeling the sound into the measurement hemisphere. A waveguide end from which sound emanates is positioned close to the reflecting plane of the chamber and can approximate a point source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Ets-Lindgren, L.P.
    Inventor: Douglas Frank Winker
  • Patent number: 7600608
    Abstract: An electroacoustic shell system adapted create a performance area where sound created by a performer is received, processed, and returned to the performer in the performance area. The system broadly includes an electroacoustic shell with a vertical panel and a canopy, a microphone and a speaker operably coupled to the shell, and an electronics processing assembly connected to the microphones and speakers for recording, broadcasting, and simulating sound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: Wenger Corporation
    Inventor: Ronald R. Freiheit
  • Patent number: 7571790
    Abstract: A sound absorption block installed at a music box, a gymnasium, a studio, etc. to prevent sounds from being heard outside, and a method of constructing the same are disclosed. The present invention provides a sound absorption block, including a lower plate where a plurality of unit structures are regularly arranged in horizontal and vertical directions, the unit structure having rectangular an opening that becomes gradually smaller; and an upper plate arranged on the lower plate to divide each of the openings of the unit structures in four parts. Accordingly, the sound absorption block of the present invention may be made of metals, as well as inexpensive building residues, etc. because a sound wave was decreased and offset regardless of the materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Inventor: Bae-Young Kim