Abstract: A microphone is disclosed in which a housing is formed by a cap (13) sealed to a substrate (11). A MEMS die (10) is mounted on the substrate (11), the MEMS die (10) incorporating a membrane (12). The membrane (12) has a first surface facing the substrate and in fluid communication with an acoustic inlet port (14) in the cap (13) via an acoustic path (17) and a second surface facing the inner surface of the cap, which second surface along with part of the inner surface of the cap (13) defines at least part of a sealed chamber (19) within which a volume of air is trapped.

Abstract: This application discusses a system that can include a master device and a slave device coupled to the master device via an audio jack connector. In an example, the master device and the slave device can be configured to exchange information via a single conductive path of the audio jack connector using a digital communication protocol. The single conductive path can be configured to conduct audio signals of an audio transducer and the slave device can include a depletion-mode transistor to complete a circuit including the audio transducer and the single conductive path in a first state, and to isolate the audio transducer from the single conductive path in a second state.

Abstract: A loudspeaker includes a horn including a first end panel, a second end panel, a first side panel, and a second side panel. Edges of at least the first and second side panels define a diffraction slot opening. The first and second side panels are each fabricated from a sheet of flexible material held in a stressed, curved shape by at least a rigid support member. The panels are designed by an automated process based on a number of electro-acoustic transducers to be used in a loudspeaker, horizontal and vertical coverage angles for the loudspeaker, and a wall length for a horn of the loudspeaker.

Abstract: In an electro-acoustic transducer including a needle electrode and a counter electrode facing the needle electrode and inducing electric discharge between the needle electrode and the counter electrode for electro-acoustic conversion by an RF voltage applied across the needle electrode and the counter electrode, the counter electrode has a cylindrical surface surrounding plasma extending from the needle electrode and has a cutout in a part of the cylindrical surface. This configuration prevents a short circuit between the needle electrode and the counter electrode due to plasma.

Abstract: Self-bias emitter circuit configurations can use the amplitude of an input AC carrier signal to provide a DC bias voltage across an emitter for suitable operation. A self-bias emitter circuit can include a transductor with primary matched with an amplifier, while secondary can be matched to the emitter. Self-bias emitter circuit can also include a full-wave bridge rectifier or a center tap inductor in conjunction with two diodes to rectify the AC carrier signal into a corresponding DC voltage. This DC voltage can be subsequently filtered by a capacitor to provide a steady DC bias voltage across the emitter. Sufficiently small, decoupling capacitors can be installed at each side of the full-wave rectifier in order to decouple the DC bias voltage, while a sufficiently large capacitor can be installed between the emitter and secondary for preventing the applied DC bias voltage from flowing back to secondary.

Abstract: A MEMS device, such as a microphone, uses a fixed perforated plate. The fixed plate comprises an array of holes across the plate area. At least a set of the holes adjacent the outer periphery comprises a plurality of rows of elongate holes, the rows at different distances from the periphery. This design improves the mechanical robustness of the membrane and can additionally allow tuning of the mechanical behavior of the plate.

Abstract: Provided is a modulation circuit that can correct an output state in real time and reliably modulate an input signal to output the modulated signal. The signal modulation circuit includes a subtracter, an integrator, a chopper circuit, a frequency divider, and a D-type flip-flop. A delay circuit of a sigma delta modulation circuit is not provided to a feedback circuit, and a signal is delayed and quantized in the D-type flip-flop. The chopper circuit inserts a zero level at timing synchronized with a clock signal, so that pulse density modulation is performed.

Abstract: A micro-speaker. The micro-speaker includes a first plate, a second plate, and a diaphragm. The first plate is biased to a first voltage. The second plate is biased to a second voltage. The diaphragm is positioned between the first plate and the second plate and is configured to receive a digital signal. The digital signal causes the diaphragm to cycle between fully displaced toward the first plate and fully displaced toward the second plate, creating air pressure pulses that mimic the digital signal.

Abstract: An impedance matched resonant circuit uses inductors coupling an audio source and a speaker array in order to reduce feedback reflection induced by an audio signal traveling from the audio source to the array of speakers. An RC circuit could also be coupled to the positive and negative terminals of the speaker array to reduce the slope differential of the audio signal at certain frequencies. The circuit can be packaged together in a single module with switches to activate and deactivate portions of the circuit to alter the effectiveness of the circuit depending upon need.

Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure may provide an apparatus and method of controlling and altering the acoustic output of audio devices that are used in conjunction with a computing device. In some embodiments, the apparatus and methods include a wireless speaker communication method and computing device software application that are configured to work together to more easily setup and deliver audio information from an audio source to one or more portable audio speakers.

Abstract: An apparatus for generating ultra-high frequency sound waves with frequencies between (1 GHz-10 GHz) is proposed. The apparatus comprises a magnetic phonon-gain medium configured to generate high frequency non-equilibrium phonons by non-equilibrium magnons having the magnon velocity exceeding the sound velocity in the magnetic phonon-gain medium. The non-equilibrium magnons having the magnon velocity exceeding the sound velocity in the magnetic phonon-gain medium are generated by injected non-equilibrium electrons having spin opposite to the direction of magnetization of the magnetic phonon-gain medium. The apparatus further comprises a means for outputting the ultra-high frequency non-equilibrium phonons.

Abstract: An apparatus and method allow end users to interactively create complex lighting patterns by remote control. Applications include decorative lighting, landscape lighting, signage, or advertising platforms. A lighting control system can be equipped with sensors that can receive remote control signals from a variety of different sources, and route the control signals to modulate receptacles coupled to different lighting circuits, thereby independently controlling multiple light arrays to achieve separate light patterns, or to coordinate different lighting effects. Interactive remote control can be provided via a mobile computing device such as a smart phone running a customized program. In one embodiment, the remote control device communicates selections to a Bluetooth®-equipped speaker to produce sound-controlled lighting effects.

Abstract: An apparatus and method allow end users to interactively create complex lighting patterns by remote control. Applications include decorative lighting, landscape lighting, signage, or advertising platforms. A lighting control system can be equipped with sensors that can receive remote control signals from a variety of different sources, and route the control signals to modulate receptacles coupled to different lighting circuits, thereby independently controlling multiple light arrays to achieve separate light patterns, or to coordinate different lighting effects. The control signals can independently energize localized groups of lamps to provide enhanced lighting effects, while using significantly less wire material. Interactive remote control can be provided via a mobile computing device such as a smart phone running a customized program. In one embodiment, the remote control device communicates selections to a Bluetooth®-equipped speaker to produce sound-controlled lighting effects.

Abstract: A thermoacoustic device includes a substrate, a sound wave generator, an insulating layer, a first electrode and a second electrode. The first electrode and the second electrode are spaced from each other and electrically connected to the sound wave generator. The substrate includes a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. The first surface defines a plurality of grooves, and a bulge is formed between the adjacent two grooves. The insulating layer is located on the first surface, and continuously attached on the grooves and the bulge. The sound wave generator is located on the insulating layer. The sound wave generator defines a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is suspended on the grooves. The second portion is attached on the bulge.

Abstract: A thermoacoustic device comprise a substrate, a number of thermoacoustic units on the substrate, a number of switches, a driving integrated circuit, a scanning integrated circuit, and a common electrode. The switches are electrically connected to the thermoacoustic units. Each of the switches is electrically connected in series between the first electrode and the driving integrated circuit through a driving electrode. Each of the switches is electrically connected to the scanning integrated circuit through a scanning electrode. The common electrode is electrically connected to the second electrode of the number of thermoacoustic units.

Abstract: A speaker includes a base defining a pair of receiving cavities separated from each other in a longitudinal direction and an engaging portion disposed between the pair of receiving cavities, a pair of magnetic circuit systems received into the pair of the receiving cavities, a diaphragm attached on the base, a pair of voice coil members connecting with the diaphragm, and a suspension mounted on the base. The suspension defines a pair of separating portions separated from each other in a lateral direction. Each separating portion defines a fixing portion engaging with the engaging portion of the base, a pair of connecting portions extending from two ends of the fixing portion and towards the diaphragm, and a pair of supporting portions connecting with the connecting portion for engaging with the pair of voice coil members, respectively.

Abstract: An electret loudspeaker device including a diaphragm, a first perforated electrode and a first spacer is provided. The diaphragm includes a first electret, a second electret, a polymer layer and an electrode layer. At least one layer of the first electret or the second electret is formed by expanded polytetrafluoroethylene. The second electret is stacked on one side of the first electret, while the electrode layer is stacked on the opposite side of the first electret. The polymer layer is made of a hydrophobic material and is disposed on the second electret. The first perforated electrode is stacked on a first spacer and close to the polymer layer. The first spacer disposed between the diaphragm and the first perforated electrode supports the first perforated electrode over the diaphragm and defines a first chamber. A fabrication method of the electret loudspeaker device is also provided.

Abstract: Methods and systems to produce audio output signals from audio input signals. In one embodiment, a first portion of the audio input signals can be pre-processed, with the output used to modulate ultrasonic carrier signals, thereby producing modulated ultrasonic signals. The modulated ultrasonic signals can be transformed into a first portion of the audio output signals, which is directional. Based on a second portion of the audio input signals, a standard audio speaker can output a second portion of the audio output signals. Another embodiment further produces distortion compensated signals based on the pre-processed signals. The distortion compensated signals can be subtracted from the second portion of the audio input signals to generate inputs for the standard audio speaker to output the second portion of the audio output signals. In yet another embodiment, noise can be added during pre-processing of the first portion of the audio input signals.

Abstract: Improved speakers are better able to accurately reproduce sound through the use of low-mass transducers.

Abstract: A MEMS acoustic transducer includes a substrate having a cavity therethrough, and a conductive back plate unit including a plurality of conductive perforated back plate portions which extend over the substrate cavity. A dielectric spacer arranged on the back plate unit between adjacent conductive perforated back plate portions, and one or more graphene membranes are supported by the dielectric spacer and extend over the conductive perforated back plate portions.

Abstract: A thermoacoustic device includes a sound wave generator and a signal input device. The sound wave generator includes a carbon film. The carbon film includes at least one carbon nanotube layer and at least one graphene layer stacked on each other. The signal input device inputs signals to the sound wave generator.

Abstract: An electroacoustic apparatus with an optical energy conversion function is provided. The electroacoustic apparatus includes an optical energy converter for converting optical energy into electrical power. The electroacoustic apparatus further includes a signal generator and a flat speaker. The signal generator receives a signal from a sound source and generates a sound signal according to the received signal. The signal generator sends the sound signal to the flat speaker, and the flat speaker makes a sound according to the sound signal. Aforementioned operations are all performed by using the electrical power generated by the optical energy converter or a power stored therein.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a folded electrostatic speaker. An exemplary speaker comprises: a first membrane; a first electrode; a second membrane, at least a portion of the first membrane being connected to at least a portion of the second membrane; a second electrode; and a first opening defined between at least a portion of the first and second membranes for receiving and releasing air. At least a portion of the first membrane and at least a portion of the second membrane move substantially perpendicularly to at least a portion of the first opening. At least a portion of the first membrane moves towards at least a portion of the second membrane or away from at least a portion of the second membrane.

Abstract: There is provided a capacitor microphone comprising a microphone capsule (100), which has an at least partially electrically conductive diaphragm (110) and a counterelectrode (120) associated therewith. The counterelectrode (120) has a printed circuit board (21) having a carrier of an insulating material (121a) and at least one electrically conductive surface (121b).

Abstract: A thermoacoustic device includes a carbon nanotube composite structure, a sound wave generator and a signal input device. The carbon nanotube composite structure includes a carbon nanotube structure and a matrix. The matrix is located on a surface of the carbon nanotube structure. The sound wave generator is located on a surface of the carbon nanotube composite structure and insulated from the carbon nanotube structure via the coating layer. The sound wave generator includes a carbon film. The signal input device is configured to input signals to the sound wave generator.

Abstract: Systems, apparatus, devices, and methods for converting electrical signals into sound using an acoustic transducer. The inventive acoustic transducer utilizes the motion of an airfoil shaped element to generate a sound wave, with the airfoil element being driven in response to an electrical signal input to a suitable driving element. In some embodiments, the airfoil element or elements act to mechanically couple the motion of an armature attached to the driver to the surrounding air, producing sound waves in a more efficient manner than typical acoustic transducer devices. Embodiments of the invention may be used in the design of loudspeakers, earpieces, headphones, and other devices for which a high efficiency transducer is desired.

Abstract: A speaker enclosure has an enclosure having an open front section. A partition is formed in the enclosure. A cone is coupled to the partition, wherein an outer perimeter of the cone is unattached from the enclosure forming a gap between the outer perimeter of the cone and the enclosure. A coil assembly is coupled to the cone. A magnet unit is coupled to the cone.

Abstract: A structure of a micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) electroacoustic transducer includes a substrate, a diaphragm, a silicon material layer, and a conductive pattern. The substrate includes an MEMS device region. The diaphragm has openings, and is disposed in the MEMS device region. A first cavity is formed between the diaphragm and the substrate. The silicon material layer is disposed on the diaphragm and seals the diaphragm. The conductive pattern is disposed beneath the diaphragm in the MEMS device region.

Abstract: A speaker device includes: an acoustic diaphragm; a vibration transfer member provided in a state of touching the acoustic diaphragm over a given length, which is configured to transfer vibration to the acoustic diaphragm; and an actuator configured to add vibration corresponding to an audio signal to be reproduced to the vibration transfer member to thereby transfer vibration to the acoustic diaphragm through the vibration transfer member and to generate sound.

Abstract: Disclosed is a crossover double speaker having a small speaker and a large speaker on the upper side and on the lower side thereof. The crossover double speaker includes a cover integrally formed on the outer circumference of a flange of the yoke; a frame disposed below the cover; a first speaker unit including a first magnet disposed in a first speaker space, a first vibration plate arranged over the first magnet, and a first voice coil inserted into a first air gap; and a second speaker unit including a second magnet disposed in a second speaker space, a second vibration plate arranged between the yoke and the frame, and a second voice coil inserted into a second air gap. The yoke has sound release holes to output the sound generated from the second speaker unit in the direction of the first speaker unit.

Abstract: A system for compensating and driving a loudspeaker includes an open loop loudspeaker controller that receives and processes an audio input signal and provides an audio output signal. A dynamic model of the loudspeaker receives the audio output signal, and models the behavior of the loudspeaker and provides predictive loudspeaker behavior data indicative thereof. The open loop loudspeaker controller receives the predictive loudspeaker behavior data and the audio input signal, and provides the audio output signal as a function of the audio input signal and the predictive loudspeaker behavior data.

Abstract: An electronic device suitable for connecting with an expansion assembly is provided. The electronic device includes a main body and an expansion module. The expansion module is pivoted to the main body and suitable for rotating relative to the main body between an operating position and an accommodating position. When the expansion module is located at the operating position, the expansion assembly is suitable of being electrically connected to the expansion module and providing a supporting force to the main body.

Abstract: The disclosed embodiments relate to a technique for inductively charging an electronic device. This technique involves winding an audio cable for the electronic device around a charging mechanism multiple times so that one or more conductors in the audio cable form an inductive receiving coil. Next, a magnetic field is created through the charging mechanism to induce a current in the inductive receiving coil. Finally, the induced current in the inductive receiving coil is used to charge a rechargeable battery for the electronic device.

Abstract: A portable electronic device includes an earphone jack for receiving an earphone plug, a switch unit and a signal processing unit. The switch unit is connected to the earphone jack and is switchable between a first state and a second state. The signal processing unit is connected to the earphone jack and the switch unit. The signal processing unit is used to identify a type of the earphone plug received in the earphone plug and control the switch unit to switch to either the first state or the second state according to the type of the earphone plug.

Abstract: A membrane including at least one aluminum layer and at least one amorphous carbon layer. At least one polymer layer may also be included. Aluminum layer(s) can provide improved gas impermeability to the membrane. Amorphous carbon layer(s) can provide corrosion resistance. Polymer layer(s) can provide improved structural strength.

Abstract: Systems and methods including a wireless device in communication with, controlling, and providing streaming media to a worksite audio device. The worksite audio device, such as a radio, includes a rugged structure enabling its use on construction sites. The worksite audio device is powerable via a power tool battery pack or AC source, and includes a charger circuit to charge an inserted power tool battery using power from the AC source. The worksite audio device is in communication with an external wireless device, such as a smart phone. The worksite audio device outputs to the smart phone battery status information, such as temperature and state of charge, as well as other information about the audio device. The smart phone displays the status information received from the audio device. Additionally, a user may control the audio device via a graphical user interface of the smart phone.

Abstract: An electret loudspeaker device including a diaphragm, a first perforated electrode and a first spacer is provided. The diaphragm has an electret layer and an electrode layer. The first perforated electrode is stacked on a side of the diaphragm near the electret layer, and has multiple holes. The first spacer is stacked between the diaphragm and the first perforated electrode, and includes a first distribution area and plural second distribution areas. The first distribution area has first openings penetrating through the first spacer, and each first opening has a first opening space volume between the diaphragm and the first perforated electrode. Each second distribution area has second openings penetrating through the first spacer, and each second opening has a second opening space volume between the diaphragm and the first perforated electrode. A difference between the first and the second opening space volumes is greater than 10%.

Abstract: An electrostatic speaker is constituted of upper/lower electrodes, upper/lower cushion materials, and a diaphragm. Cutouts are formed in the upper/lower electrodes, upper/lower cushion materials, and diaphragm, wherein they are shifted in position such that a part of the diaphragm and a part of the lower electrode are exposed and seen through those cutouts to horizontally adjoin in the cutout of the upper electrode. The electrostatic speaker is driven via a clip having electrodes in response to audio signals, wherein drive voltages are applied to each of the upper/lower electrodes and the diaphragm.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for optimizing audio performance of a portable electronic device having multiple audio ports. The method can include detecting an orientation of the mobile device. Therefore, the portable electronic device includes a sensor for determining orientation of the portable electronic device; and one or more sensors placed near each audio port for sampling whether each audio port is obstructed; and a processor for activating one or more unobstructed audio ports and deactivating one or more obstructed audio ports.

Abstract: A dynamic microphone unit includes a diaphragm vibrating in response to received sound waves; a voice coil fixed to the diaphragm; a magnetic circuit generating magnetism in a magnetic gap where the voice coil is disposed; and an acoustic resistor disposed in a space adjacent to the reverse of the diaphragm. The acoustic resistor includes a cover disposed between a felt and the diaphragm. A case having an open end and a closed end accommodates the felt and the cover. The cover has holes transmitting sound waves at the closed end and a bending portion at the open end which urges the cover and the felt.

Abstract: A microphone circuit includes a capacitor capsule and first and second impedance converters connected differentially to the capacitor capsule. The microphone circuit includes first and second output buffer amplifiers connected differentially to the first and second impedance converters.

Abstract: A platform that is configured to be removably placed symmetrically on or about a user's head has at least a first transducer configured to capture vibration of the user's skull or facial movement generated by the user's voice activity and to detect the user's speaking activity. This first transducer converts the vibration or facial movement into a first electrical audio signal. The electrical audio signal from the first transducer is processed by circuitry or embodied software as voiced frames and/or as unvoiced frames, in which the voiced frames and/or the unvoiced frames are defined based at least on the first electrical audio signal. Multiple embodiments follow from this: where the first transducer is a vibration sensor; where voice is captured by an air microphone and filtering adaptation differs for the voiced versus unvoiced frames as defined by the first transducer, and another with at least three air microphones.

Abstract: A thermoacoustic device includes a sound wave generator and a signal input device. The sound wave generator includes a graphene layer. The graphene layer includes at least one graphene. The signal input device inputs signals to the sound wave generator.

Abstract: A microphone system including an audio sensor with a first electrode and a second electrode. A voltage source is coupled to the first electrode and the second electrode. A high-impedance bias network is coupled between the voltage source and the first electrode of the audio sensor. Additional electronics operate based on a state of the first electrode of the electromechanical device. A feedback system is configured to maintain an electrical potential across the high-impedance bias network at approximately zero volts. Maintaining the electrical potential across the high-impedance bias network at approximately zero volts reduces the tendency of electrostatic pull-in occurring.

Abstract: A sound output apparatus configured to connect to an audio processing apparatus may include a communication interface which receives an audio signal from the audio processing apparatus through a wireless communication; a speaker which outputs the received audio signal; an input unit which receives a user control command; and a controller which controls the communication interface so that the received control command is transmitted to the audio processing apparatus through the communication interface.

Abstract: A condenser microphone having a flexure hinge diaphragm and a method of manufacturing the same are provided. The method includes the steps of: forming a lower silicon layer and a first insulating layer; forming an upper silicon layer on the first insulating layer; forming sound holes by patterning the upper silicon layer; forming a second insulating layer and a conductive layer on the upper silicon layer; forming a passivation layer on the conductive layer; forming a sacrificial layer on the passivation layer; depositing a diaphragm on the sacrificial layer, and forming air holes passing through the diaphragm; forming electrode pads on the passivation layer and a region of the diaphragm; and etching the layers to form an air gap between the diaphragm and the upper silicon layer. Consequently, a manufacturing process may improve the sensitivity and reduce the size of the condenser microphone.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for mounting a loudspeaker within a cavity in the wall of a room to lessen the transmission of vibration to the wall comprises a weight support member coupled to the speaker cabinet and at least one flexible member extending from the speaker cabinet into engagement with wallboard or other wall sections forming opposite sides of the wall.

Abstract: The invention relates to a 3.5 mm audio plug with built-in light source, particularly to a light-emitting element arranged in a hollow tube and two conductive portions and several insulating portions arranged on a predetermined position of a surface of the audio plug for acquiring power and supplying the power to the light-emitting element in order to form a laser pen. At the same time, the electronic products are able to maintain normal output sound from a speaker when the audio plug is inserted into the audio jack of the predetermined electronic product, avoiding missed calls. Moreover, the audio plug is arranged in the audio jack except the light-emitting hole; that is, the present invention is nearly integrated with the smartphone 70, which is not only beautiful but easy to carry.

Abstract: An ear tip includes a body shaped to fit at least partially into the outer ear of a wearer and having a coefficient of friction greater than 2.0. The body has an outer surface having a permanent coating on at least the part shaped to fit into the outer ear with a coefficient of friction of less than 2.0.

Abstract: A speaker structure includes a membrane, an electrode which has a plurality of holes, a frame holding member and at least one set of supporting members. The frame holding member forms an exterior shape of the speaker structure and holds the membrane and the electrode at two opposite sides. Each of the set of the supporting members has a geometric structure and is placed in a space opposite to a soniferous hole region between the electrode and the membrane, so as to prevent the membrane and the electrode from contacting.