Plural Diaphragms, Compartments, Or Housings Patents (Class 381/335)
  • Publication number: 20120189420
    Abstract: A coupling system (10, 110) comprising coupling means (11, 111) for coupling at least two loudspeaker housings (2, 102) together, designed to couple the loudspeaker housing (2, 102) in such a manner that the loudspeaker housings (2, 102) will extend at a predetermined angle (3, 103) relative to each other in a hoisted position, further comprising setting means (12, 112) for setting said predetermined angle (3, 103), when the loudspeaker housings (2, 112) are in a non-hoisted, stretched position, wherein the coupling system (10, 110) is further designed for coupling the loudspeaker housings (2, 102) in such a manner that said loudspeaker housings (2, 102), upon being moved from the non-hoisted position to the hoisted position, will move under the influence of gravity from the stretched position to the position in which the loudspeaker housings (2, 102) extend at said pre-determined angle (3, 103).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Applicant: ALCONS AUDIO B.V.
    Inventors: Danker Kemper, Boudewijn Groen
  • Patent number: 8224016
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide an electroacoustic transducer having a multi-channel diaphragm, and a hearing aid using the electroacoustic transducer, in which a plurality of channels having different resonant frequencies is formed in the diaphragm using MEMS technology, thus more closely approximating the different audible frequency characteristics of respective persons. The present invention provides an electroacoustic transducer provided with a multi-channel diaphragm. The electroacoustic transducer includes a diaphragm (110) and signal conversion units (120). The diaphragm is provided with respective channels having different resonant frequencies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Inventor: Ci-Moo Song
  • Patent number: 8204266
    Abstract: An electronic device having an audio function and its loudspeaker arrangement are described. The electronic device comprises an exterior housing, an acoustic transducer and an acoustic radiator forming a part of the exterior housing of the electronic device. In one embodiment, the exterior housing undergoes pistonic movement and is provided with hydrogel pads to couple an acoustic signal to an auxiliary surface, which then vibrates in a distributed mode. The voice coil may be directly bonded to the exterior housing. A formation may be provided to promote pistonic movement of a part of the exterior housing. Methods of operation and formation are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: SFX Technologies Limited
    Inventors: Jordi Frigola Munoz, Rene Meinhard Winter, Piyush Gaur
  • Patent number: 8199961
    Abstract: A speaker device (100) includes a speaker unit (2) including a diaphragm (6); a windshield cover (3) covering the speaker unit and including a sound emitting unit (130) emitting a sound produced by the speaker unit; and a cabinet (5) connected to a bottom of the windshield cover, and supporting the speaker unit so as to form an angle equal to or greater than 0 degree and equal to or smaller than 90 degree between a vibration direction X of the diaphragm and the sound emitting unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: JVC Kenwood Corporation
    Inventors: Manabu Omoda, Masahiro Watanabe
  • Patent number: 8189847
    Abstract: A dual-frequency coaxial earphone has a shared magnet, which is interposed between a top board of a outer yoke and an outer disk of a inner yoke, wherein the outer yoke and the inner yoke each has a different polarity. A low-frequency voice coil of a low-frequency speaker part extends axially into and between an annular wall of the outer yoke and the outer disk of the inner yoke. An inner sleeve of the inner yoke extends into a first central opening of the outer yoke. Therefore, a high frequency of the high-frequency speaker part can pass through the inner sleeve so as to energize a central diaphragm of the low-frequency speaker part and to form a same phase as, and to output frequency synchronously with, the low-frequency speaker part. As such, the problem of intermodulation of distortion for the high and low acoustic frequencies can be solved, and that dimension of the earphone can be minimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Jetvox Acoustic Corp.
    Inventor: Fred Huang
  • Patent number: 8189822
    Abstract: This invention relates to a line-array loudspeaker that is configurable to meet the acoustic requirements of a venue. In one embodiment, the line-array includes a combination of far-field and near-field loudspeaker modules which are selectively fixedly connected to each other. Each module includes a first loudspeaker element and a second loudspeaker element. Each of the first and second elements includes a high-frequency transducer assembly and a low-frequency transducer assembly. The far-field modules and the near-field modules are fixedly connected using a rigging system to provide a smooth and continuous transition from a first splay angle to a second splay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Steven J. Jakowski
  • Patent number: 8175304
    Abstract: A loudspeaker configuration capable of generating stereophonic sound separation from relatively loudspeaker drivers that are not necessarily widely separated. For example, such a loudspeaker configuration can be used to generate relatively good sound separation from a single chassis, such as a single speaker box, a boom box, a clock radio or the like. This can advantageously save space in many environments. One embodiment uses four mid-tweeter speaker drivers and a bass driver. The four mid-tweeter speaker drivers are arranged facing outward approximately 90 degrees apart from each other. A speaker driver facing the listener reproduces a mid channel signal, for example, L+R. A speaker driver facing away from the listener reproduces the same mid channel signal or a delayed version of the mid channel signal. A left facing speaker reproduces a side channel, for example, L?R. A right facing speaker reproduces a side channel, for example, R?L.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Inventor: Donald J. North
  • Patent number: 8170223
    Abstract: A loudspeaker is provided for receiving an incoming electrical signal and transmitting an acoustical signal that is directional and has a substantially constant beamwidth over a wide frequency range. The loudspeaker may include a curved mounting plate that has curvature over a range of angles. The loudspeaker may include an array of speaker drivers coupled to the mounting plate. Each speaker driver may be driven by an electrical signal having a respective amplitude that is a function of the speaker driver's respective location on the mounting plate. The function may be a Legendre function. Alternatively, the loudspeaker may include a flat mounting plate. In this case, the respective electrical signal driving each speaker may have a phase delay that virtually positions the speaker onto a curved surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Harman International Industries, Incorporated
    Inventor: D. Broadus Keele, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8170263
    Abstract: The invention provides a system for enabling the assembly and suspension of a plurality of loudspeakers in a line array where the splay angle between the adjacent speakers can be adjusted and rigidly maintained. The line array system utilizes rigging frames that allow for the coupling and supporting of the loudspeakers through the use of adjustable hinge bars. The rigging frames and adjustable hinge bars together form and rigidly maintain the splay angles between adjacent loudspeakers and correspondingly the curvature of the line array speaker assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Harman International Industries, Incorporated
    Inventors: Mark Engebretson, Yoshiyuki Takeuchi
  • Patent number: 8165333
    Abstract: A modular speaker system includes a base assembly having a longitudinally extending, central support member and a support leg extending therefrom in a manner supporting the central support member in a generally upright configuration. The central support member includes a first end and a second end. A first woofer is secured to the base assembly, and a base assembly amplifier is mounted within the central support member and connected to the first woofer. An auxiliary speaker assembly includes a longitudinally extending, auxiliary support member having a first end a second end, the first end being shaped and dimensioned for selective engagement with the second end of the central support member. A first driver is secured to the auxiliary speaker assembly and an amplifier is mounted within the auxiliary support member and is connected to the first driver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventor: Dennis A. Tracy
  • Patent number: 8155370
    Abstract: An audio system utilizes a method for detecting and adjusting a sound field effect thereof. The audio system includes a first speaker and a second speaker. The first speaker is used to emit a first sound signal, and the second speaker is used to emit a second sound signal. The method for adjusting the sound field effect includes the steps of detecting a specific position and adjusting the first speaker or the second speaker based on the specific position to focus the first sound signal and the second sound signal on the specific position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Asustek Computer Inc.
    Inventors: Shou-Hsiu Hsu, Kuo-Hsun Huang
  • Patent number: 8144906
    Abstract: Disclosed is an acoustic device comprising an enclosed housing defining an inner volume and having a front and a back; an acoustic port penetrating the front of the enclosed housing; a first and second sense structure attached to the inside of the housing and defining a gap between the first and second sense structures; a front volume defined by the portion of the inner volume between the first sense structure and the front of the housing; a back volume defined by the portion of the inner volume between the second sense structure and the back of the housing; and at least one vent in the first sense structure operatively connecting the front volume and the gap, wherein the acoustic device has a cutoff frequency above approximately 100 Hz.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Akustica, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael James Daley, Andrew Jonathan Doller, Todd Martin Keebler
  • Patent number: 8144900
    Abstract: A speaker system which includes a housing and a linear array of a plurality of sound-generating transducers. A housing is in the form of a cylinder having a longitudinal axis and substantially circular cross-section. The linear array of sound-generating transducers are mounted upon a substantially planar chord configured within a sidewall of the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Inventors: J. Craig Oxford, D. Michael Shields
  • Patent number: 8139784
    Abstract: A compound loudspeaker comprises an acoustically radiating first diaphragm and an acoustically radiating second diaphragm. The first and second diaphragms are substantially coaxial and at least part of the second diaphragm is situated radially outwards of the first diaphragm. There is a gap situated between the first and second diaphragms, and a seal is provided in the gap, thereby preventing or hindering the passage of air through the gap. By providing the seal, the invention solves the problem of audible turbulent airflow through the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: GP Acoustics (UK) Limited
    Inventor: Jack Anthony Oclee-Brown
  • Patent number: 8130987
    Abstract: A speaker system has a laterally extending body portion for supporting the back of the head of a user and a pair of right and left side portions respectively connected to the right and left ends of the body portion. A plurality of openings in side wall of each of two speaker boxes for making communication between the inside and the outside of each speaker box, for preventing sound leakage from each speaker unit and ensuring the sound pressure level in a low-frequency range of the audio frequencies reproducible by the speaker unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Hideo Kaneda, Naotaka Kishi, Noboru Shiina
  • Patent number: 8130976
    Abstract: A sound system which has, for example, a radio, a cassette and a CD player is usually already installed in cars as standard or as an option. In addition, a better sound system includes a box system which has a tweeter and a woofer. In order to provide a speaker box which is suitable particularly for dispensing frequencies below 150 Hz and at the same time has neat pulses accompanied at the same time by little distortion, pulse dynamics and is highly effective, a sound transducer (10) is introduced into the supporting structure of the vehicle. This takes place in such a manner that subcompartments which are separated from each other adjoin each of its two membrane sides. In this case, the two subcompartments of the speaker box are formed by at least two elements (2, 3, 4) of the supporting structure of the vehicle (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Daimler AG
    Inventors: Klaus Linhard, Norbert Niemczyk
  • Publication number: 20120033826
    Abstract: The present invention relates to low sound reproduction of a compact speaker, a degree of freedom of design for the low sound reproduction, chattering noise of structures of electronic apparatuses due to powerful low sound reproduction, chattering noise of structures near a car speaker due to powerful low sound reproduction, leakage of sound out of a vehicle, and an exterior design of unattractive passive radiators. Specifically, a bottom-raised box part is installed in an enclosure to adjust a volume of the enclosure. A plurality of pairs of passive radiators having different resonance conditions is installed. An external enclosure is installed in the outside of the speaker system including a driver, passive radiators and an enclosure. Signal processing is performed to {suppress a gain at a resonance point of the lowest frequency band providing the maximal vibration of the driver} and {emphasize a gain at a resonance point of the lowest frequency band providing the minimal vibration of the driver}.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2011
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Inventor: JUN-ICHI KAKUMOTO
  • Patent number: 8103034
    Abstract: A mounting device includes a positioning frame mounted with an electronic device, and two clamping mechanisms. Each clamping mechanism includes a sliding member movable vertically relative to the positioning frame, a clamping member movable horizontally relative to the sliding member between an extended position and a retracted position, a spring for biasing the clamping member toward the extended position, and a height-adjusting member operable to adjust the vertical position of the sliding member relative to the positioning frame. The clamping members can be moved to the retracted positions to allow for movement of the clamping members through a mounting hole in a horizontal plate, after which the height-adjusting members is operable to move the clamping members toward the positioning frame to thereby clamp the plate between the positioning frame and the clamping members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Zylux Acoustic Corporation
    Inventor: Chuan-Chi Tai
  • Publication number: 20120008812
    Abstract: A loudspeaker includes a two-dimensional array of non-housed individual speakers having flat shapes. The non-housed individual speakers are accommodated within a flat housing, the depth of the housing being smaller than 5 cm, for example. Non-housed individual speakers used are advantageously headphone capsules and/or miniature loudspeakers having diaphragm diameters of less than 5 cm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Applicant: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Foerderung der angewandten Forschung e.V.
    Inventors: Thomas SPORER, Daniel BEER, Stephan MAUER
  • Patent number: 8085963
    Abstract: A combined power and audio dock for a handheld electronic device provides an integrated solution to the multiple uses of multifunction devices such as mobile telephones with built-in music players. The dock is configured with a recess into which the handheld device is docked so that all four exterior edges of the device are surrounded by the dock. This enables the dock to engage with any controls, jacks and ports along any edge of the device, and includes loudspeakers that can amplify the audio output of the device. The device is docked in an intentional assembly sequence that enables power and audio connectors to engage corresponding jacks on common, adjacent or opposing edges of the handheld device. Removal is accomplished in a reverse sequence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Harman International Industries, Incorporated
    Inventor: Kurt Solland
  • Patent number: 8077898
    Abstract: A dual-frequency coaxial earphone includes a frame, a shared yoke, a high frequency speaker part, and a low frequency speaker part. The high frequency speaker part and the low frequency speaker part are coaxially arranged at inside and outside of the shared yoke, and are coaxial with a central opening of the frame. Further, a permanent magnet of the higher frequency speaker part is contrary, in polarity, to an annular magnet of the low frequency speaker part. Therefore, acoustic frequency of the low frequency speaker part can be phase-countered by passing thereof through an acoustic annular recess, so that the acoustic frequency of the low frequency speaker part has the same phase as the acoustic frequency of the high frequency speaker part and both then are output synchronally. The high frequency speaker part and the low frequency speaker part can then be separated, in acoustic frequency, from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Jetvox Acoustic Corp.
    Inventor: Fred Huang
  • Patent number: 8073176
    Abstract: The present invention introduces a speakerbar which mounts above or below a flat screen TV and reproduces the surround sound experience normally associated with speakers placed in five to seven separate locations around the room. This particular invention effectively increases the perceived stereo separation of the left and right front speakers, and creates the perception of two and even four surround speakers typically placed in the rear of the listening area. In addition, it introduces new technology to achieve multichannel bass extension beyond the normal limitations due to the minimal internal volume of a multichannel speakerbar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Inventor: Bernard Bottum
  • Patent number: 8068618
    Abstract: A highly compact loudspeaker system having a spherical housing produces time and phase coherent sound waves in an omnipresent manner throughout a spatial listening environment. Within is a relatively low frequency sound driver and a relatively high frequency sound driver. The spherical housing has upper and lower hemispherical halves. The upper half is hollow and has holes through its surface over most of its surface. The lower half forms a sound compression propagation vacuum chamber for the low frequency driver. Mounted within the lower half is a crossover network conventionally connected to the sound drivers. Acoustic foam lines the interior wall surface of the lower half. The low frequency sound driver is mounted inverted, into the open end of the lower half, and then sealed air tight, at a lowered atmospheric pressure, while the high frequency sound driver is mounted upwardly, affixed to the backside of the low frequency driver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventor: Edward G. Vollmer
  • Patent number: 8066095
    Abstract: A compact bass speaker cabinet uses a long, narrow, tapered waveguide that acts as does a small radial portion of the air outside a large pulsating sphere, and has the same bass response as the large pulsating sphere. The smaller end is closed and the longer end is open. In one embodiment the inside of the waveguide is a rectangle about an inch thick and substantially as wide as the speaker or speakers that are mounted on the wider surface close to or slightly overlapping the closed end; and the inside surfaces are tapered so that they meet at a point which lies beyond the closed end by a distance equal to the radian wavelength of the longest sound wave that is to be produced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventor: Nicholas Sheppard Bromer
  • Patent number: 8050425
    Abstract: An audio signal supplying device includes a connection terminal which is connected to a speaker unit and which outputs an audio signal to the speaker unit, a specifying section which specifies a type of the speaker unit connected to the connection terminal, an acquiring section which acquires a parameter corresponding to the type of the speaker unit specified by the specifying section from an outside, a storing section which stores the parameter acquired by the acquiring section, an inputting section into which the audio signal is input, an acoustic characteristic controlling section which adjusts an acoustic characteristic of the audio signal input into the inputting section based on the parameter stored in the storing section, and a supplying section which supplies the audio signal whose acoustic characteristic is adjusted by the acoustic characteristic controlling section to the connection terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Yamaha Corporation
    Inventor: Masayuki Iwamatsu
  • Patent number: 8050441
    Abstract: A portable speaker having at least one driver mounted in a first enclosure and a second enclosure separate from the first enclosure and having pivotally mounted to it the first enclosure. The second enclosure has all electronics, controls and a battery compartment. The first enclosure is moveable relative to the second enclosure between a first configuration and a second configuration, the at least one driver being protected by the second enclosure when the first enclosure is in the first configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Creative Technology Ltd
    Inventors: Jeng Khim Tan, Huang Pheng Ang, Aik Hee Goh, Susimin Suprapmo
  • Patent number: 8050432
    Abstract: To conclude, in a preferred embodiment in accordance with the invention, the sound system comprises two loudspeakers (LA, LB) which mask their spectral signatures at the ear (C1) of the listener by positioning the two loudspeakers (LA, LB) such that their maxima of the polar radiation patterns have directions which at least differ 30 degrees, and which generate coherent sound in the direction of the listener. These two aspects together cause different gradients of the sound of the two loudspeakers (LA, LB) at the same ear (C1) of the listener, while the information which reaches the ear (C1) from the spatially shifted different loudspeakers (LA, LB) is still coherent and not blurred by diffusion. The loudspeakers LA, LB should be spaced apart to obtain sufficient different gradients of their sound at the same ear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Bloomline Acoustics B.V.
    Inventor: Leendert De Klerk
  • Patent number: 8041061
    Abstract: A speaker system utilizes dipole speaker drivers in conjunction with monopole speaker drivers in a listening area to disperse a surround sound effect to a listener. The dipole speaker drivers are physically mounted on top of the front left and right speakers and are angled in a way that the surround information is delivered to the listener via wall/room reflections. By reflecting the sound off the walls, the system provides a delayed diffuse audio signal from the dipole speakers, enhancing the surround effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Altec Lansing, LLC
    Inventors: Charles Emory Hughes, II, Olin Daniel Williford
  • Patent number: 8031896
    Abstract: An audio device has passive radiators that are driven by acoustic drivers. The passive radiators are arranged so that the net mechanical vibration is minimized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Bose Corporation
    Inventors: Geoffrey C. Chick, Hal P. Greenberger, Roman Litovsky, Christopher B. Ickler, Roger Mark, George Nichols
  • Patent number: 8031897
    Abstract: A system and method for reducing baffle vibration includes balancing an inertial force generated by two or more moving diaphragms and balancing an acoustic pressure acting on a housing supporting the two or more moving diaphragms such that a net force acting on the baffle is substantially zero. The acoustic force acting on the housing may be balanced independently of the inertial force balance. In another configuration, the acoustic force acting on the housing may be balanced by a non-zero net inertial force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Bose Corporation
    Inventors: Kevin J. Bastyr, Christopher B. Ickler, Ray Scott Wakeland
  • Patent number: 8027499
    Abstract: A portable audio system includes a housing, battery, wiring harness, speakers, and two or more audio controllers, each including at least one audio functionality different from at least one other. The functionality of the portable audio system may be reconfigured as desired by removing one audio controller and installing a different audio controller. A quick-detach connector on the wiring harness facilitates the swapping of audio controllers, which are preferably automotive audio controllers. The portable audio system includes external power and speaker connectors, with the internal power and speakers being switchably disconnectable. Thus, the portable audio system may also be used as a fixed, or home, audio system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Inventor: John A. Wearing
  • Patent number: 8023672
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an easy-to-assemble one-piece surround speaker structure, wherein a plurality of integrable speaker housings realizes a size-adjustable audio structure, and whereby an user can self-adjust the length of a surround speaker in accordance to the size of television or available space The speaker housings can contain various types of speakers, including: a main speaker, a center speaker, a surround speaker, a subwoofer speaker, etc. Thereby, an user can organize speakers to achieve the audio effect he desires. Each speaker has a plurality of I/O terminals for mutual signal and power connection. Thus, no matter what type of speaker combination is arranged or what number of speaker housings is integrated, the present invention can perform perfectly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Weistech Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wei Hsu
  • Patent number: 8009845
    Abstract: A microphone unit (1) has a first vibration plate. A support member (6) supports the microphone unit (1). A second vibration plate (5) is fixed to the support member (6) at a predetermined distance from the first vibration plate. An armoring body (2) covers the microphone unit (1), the support member (6) and the second vibration plate (5). A space surrounded by the support member (6), the first vibration plate and the second vibration plate (5) is a closed space (S1) with air kept therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Victor Company of Japan, Limited
    Inventors: Kazuo Sakurai, Masayuki Shimada
  • Patent number: 7983436
    Abstract: An apparatus for reducing baffle vibration includes a baffle that is subject to vibration. A first transducer that is seated in the baffle includes a first diaphragm that is acoustically coupled to a listening area in a vehicle and also acoustically coupled to a cavity in the vehicle. A first input signal applied to the first transducer causes the first diaphragm to move in a first direction, thereby generating an acoustic output. A second transducer is mechanically coupled to the first transducer. The second transducer includes a second diaphragm that is acoustically coupled to the first diaphragm and also acoustically coupled to the listening area. A second input signal applied to the second transducer causes the second diaphragm to move in a second direction that is substantially opposite to the first direction to reduce a vibration imparted to the baffle while substantially maintaining the acoustic output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Bose Corporation
    Inventors: George Nichols, Michael D. Rosen, Hal P. Greenberger
  • Patent number: 7970158
    Abstract: A long and narrow loudspeaker on an entire wall gives off a cylindrical wave, which covers the entire room. Extra loudspeakers fixed at an angle against the wall will be heard in another direction, producing angle stereo independent of where one is in the room. Electro-dynamic loudspeakers are made of long plates of iron with air gapes between them where magnetic fields are produced. In the air gaps are strips, which conduct the sound currents. The strips influence directly one or more membranes. The magnetic field can be produced by permanent magnets, electromagnets or through concentration of geomagnetic fields. Long loudspeakers, which use other forces such as electrostatic forces, only need to be made for small sound pressure at the membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Inventor: Lennart Hoglund
  • Patent number: 7957545
    Abstract: A stereo speaker system including: a speaker unit having a plurality of speakers which output audio; and a filter unit selectively receiving low frequency components of the outputted audio. The filter unit eliminates the received low frequency components to decrease back pressure on the speakers. Thus, the phenomenon of air-loading caused by back-pressure is removed and the low frequency characteristic of stereo speakers is improved by activating the vibration of a vibrating plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Young Tae Kim, Jung Ho Kim
  • Patent number: 7936891
    Abstract: A line array loudspeaker, including a first plurality of acoustic drivers each acoustic driver comprising an axis, the first plurality of acoustic drivers arranged so that the axes of first plurality of acoustic drivers are coplanar in a first plane and so that a straight line intersects each axis at a same position on each of the first plurality of acoustic drivers, and a second plurality of acoustic drivers each acoustic driver comprising an axis, the second plurality of acoustic drivers arranged so that the axes of second plurality of acoustic drivers are coplanar in a second plane and so that the straight line intersects each axis at a same position on each of the second plurality of acoustic drivers, in which the first plurality and the second plurality arranged so that the first plane intersects with the second plane along a straight intersection line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Inventors: Clifford A. Henricksen, Christopher B. Ickler, Kenneth Dylan Jacob, Morten Jorgensen, Joseph J. Kutil, III, Hilmar Lehnert, Peter C. Santoro
  • Patent number: 7933426
    Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of the invention includes removable speaker arrangements. A speaker structure is pivotally mounted with a first base such that the speaker structure pivots around an axis of rotation, and the first base configured to slidingly receive the speaker structure. A first plurality of electronic contacts are in electronic communication with the first base. A second plurality of electronic contacts are in electronic communication with the speaker structure and are configured to maintain electronic communication with the first plurality of electronic connectors throughout the axis of rotation. In some embodiments, the first base further includes a wireless transmitter. In some embodiments, speaker arrangements further includes a second base configured to slidingly receive the speaker structure. In some embodiments, the second base includes a power supply and a wireless receiver for maintaining electronic communication with the first base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: David C. Vinson, Dean Depay, Raphael Gemez, Alexander Thatcher
  • Patent number: 7903834
    Abstract: A curve fitted planar loudspeaker minimizes variation and dead zones in the sound field propagated by an array of the loudspeakers. The curve fitted loudspeaker provides a plurality of sound generating transducers. The diaphragm is curved and each adjacent section fits as a section into a larger curve, eliminating or minimizing breaks in the propagated sound filed at the target distance to the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Inventor: Curtis E. Graber
  • Publication number: 20110035873
    Abstract: A spa speaker apparatus having a housing with a speaker mounted therein, wherein the speaker can be extended and retracted with respect to the housing and the speaker is also rotatable within the housing. A system for providing audio to a spa is also disclosed. The system comprises a spa having walls and at least one speaker unit mounted to a spa wall. Each of the speaker units is capable of receiving an audio signal, and generating sound towards the occupants of the spa. Each of the speaker units comprises a speaker that is individually retractable to be hidden behind the spa wall and extendible from the spa wall. Each of the speakers is also rotatable within the spa wall to direct the speaker sound.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2010
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Inventor: Ruben J. Lerma
  • Patent number: 7886867
    Abstract: A flexible multiple speaker support apparatus is provided for supporting a plurality of speakers therein and includes a flexible, hollow speaker support unit which includes a plurality of open, sound emission channels. The speakers are housed within the flexible, hollow speaker support unit, and the speakers are placed in registration with the open, sound emission channels. With one embodiment of the invention, the flexible, hollow speaker support unit includes a flexible, tubular speaker support member, and the flexible, tubular speaker support member includes a plurality of the open, sound emission channels. The speakers are placed in registration with the open, sound emission channels. With another embodiment of the invention, a suspension bracket assembly is connected to the flexible, hollow speaker support unit for supporting the flexible, hollow speaker support unit in a desired orientation from a ceiling, wall or other surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Inventor: Steven L. Adams
  • Publication number: 20110026750
    Abstract: A diaphragm includes a diaphragm matrix and at least one reinforcing structure composited with the diaphragm matrix. The at least one reinforcing structure includes at least one freestanding carbon nanotube structure. A loudspeaker includes a magnetic circuit defining a magnetic gap; a bobbin located in the magnetic gap; a voice coil wound on the bobbin; and a diaphragm. The diaphragm includes an inner rim fixed to the bobbin a diaphragm matrix, and at least one reinforcing structure composited with the diaphragm matrix. The at least one reinforcing structure includes at least one freestanding carbon nanotube structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2010
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Applicants: TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY, HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: JIA-PING WANG, LIANG LIU
  • Patent number: 7869195
    Abstract: A personal, portable media player capable of receiving and storing audio and video programming is adapted for coupling via a docking system to a portable Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) and Compact Disc (CD) player for playing and recording of video and audio programming. The docking system is integrated in the housing of the DVD/CD player and is adapted for receiving the media player and allowing video and audio data received by or stored in the media player to be presented on or stored in the DVD/CD player. When connected via the docking system to the portable DVD/CD player, the media player is disposed in a recessed portion of the DVD/CD player's housing and is further protected by a transparent, removable cover connected to the housing and having an aperture therein to permit the user to provide selection/control inputs to the media player when connected to the DVD/CD player.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Inventor: Michael A. Patton
  • Patent number: 7851247
    Abstract: A method of fabricating a micro-electromechanical system microphone structure is disclosed. First, a substrate defining a MEMS region and a logic region is provided, and a surface of the substrate has a dielectric layer thereon. Next, at least one metal interconnect layer is formed on the dielectric layer in the logic region, and at least one micro-machined metal mesh is simultaneously formed in the dielectric layer of the MEMS region. Therefore, the thickness of the MEMS microphone structure can be effectively reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: United Microelectronics Corp.
    Inventor: Hui-Shen Shih
  • Patent number: 7848534
    Abstract: In each sound unit, when connection with another sound unit is detected, an input control signal is supplied to a control section and then supplied to the adjoining sound unit. Input clock signal is supplied to a PLL section, and an output clock signal from the PLL section is supplied to the adjoining sound unit. Input speaker output signal and microphone input signal are supplied to a speaker output signal processing section and microphone input signal processing section, respectively. The speaker output signal processing section performs predetermined signal processing on an input signal to output the resultant processed signal to a speaker array, and then performs internal delay compensation processing on the signal to output the resultant processed signal to the adjoining sound unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Yamaha Corporation
    Inventors: Toshiaki Ishibashi, Takuro Sone
  • Patent number: 7835536
    Abstract: One mode of the present invention provides an electroacoustic transducer composed of a multifaced diaphragm assembly and a multifaced speaker housing assembly that is housed inside the multifaced diaphragm assembly. The multifaced speaker housing is configured by combining the outer peripheral surface of a plurality of individual speaker drive units into a nearly spherical shell. The multifaced diaphragm assembly, which has thereinside the multifaced speaker housing assembly, is configured to have a plurality of regular pentagonal diaphragm segments that are combined together into a nearly spherical shape shell, and a plurality of speaker drive units opposing the diaphragm segments from inside in one-to-one relation. Each speaker drive unit has a bobbin, the one end portion of which is adhered to the center portion of the inner surface of each diaphragm segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Victor Company of Japan Limited
    Inventors: Kazuyuki Inagaki, Manabu Omoda, Jiro Nakaso
  • Patent number: 7826633
    Abstract: A cover for a speaker device having a sound producing portion and a structure for supporting the sound producing portion, the cover includes an opening and an internal cavity therein for receiving and enclosing the speaker device, a first portion capable of passing produced sound therethrough, wherein the first portion is formed to be disposed opposite the sound producing portion of the speaker device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Audiovox Corporation
    Inventor: Leonard A. Davi
  • Patent number: 7826622
    Abstract: A loudspeaker is provided for receiving an incoming electrical signal and transmitting an acoustical signal that is directional and has a substantially constant beamwidth over a wide frequency range. The loudspeaker may include a curved mounting plate that has curvature over a range of angles. The loudspeaker may include an array of speaker drivers coupled to the mounting plate. Each speaker driver may be driven by an electrical signal having a respective amplitude that is a function of the speaker driver's respective location on the mounting plate. The function may be a Legendre function. Alternatively, the loudspeaker may include a flat mounting plate. In this case, the respective electrical signal driving each speaker may have a phase delay that virtually positions the speaker onto a curved surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Harman International Industries, Incorporated
    Inventor: D. Broadus Keele, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7813770
    Abstract: A speaker module and a mobile device having the speaker module are provided herein. The speaker module includes a speaker unit and a speaker box. The speaker box has a wall defining an aperture receiving the speaker unit therein. The speaker box has a first speaker chamber, a second speaker chamber and a connecting section connecting the first speaker chamber and the second speaker chamber. The cross-sectional height of the space of the connecting section is lower than that of the first speaker chamber or the second speaker chamber. In other option, the space of the connecting section is smaller than that of the first speaker chamber or the second speaker chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: HTC Corporation
    Inventors: San-Chi Ho, Kar-Chai Luk, Teerada Sirirattanasit
  • Patent number: 7782012
    Abstract: In this present invention, MP3 playing and charging system having an adapter for installing MP3 and dynamic speakers which includes a docking station and two speakers that can be used in attached or separated manner; two speakers that allow variation of speaker direction generating dynamic sound when attached; and a docking station that can be attached and connected to MP3 player with the use of MP3 installing adapter when connecting MP3 to the docking station is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Diasonic Technology Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Su Hwan Jo