VIBRATION DEVICE

Abstract

Vibration device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600), comprising: a glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F); an excitation device (13) attached to the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F) which sets the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F) into vibration; an enclosure element (15, 15A, 15B, 15C, 15D, 15E) that defines an interior space (19) by enclosing a section, including a mounting position of the excitation device (13), of the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F), wherein an end section of the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F) is exposed through an opening (21) of the interior space (19) to the outside of the interior space (19); and a shielding element (17) for sound shielding between the opening (21) and the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F), wherein the shielding element (17) divides the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F) into an excitation area (A1) located inside the interior (19) and a vibration area (A2) located outside the interior (19).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a vibration device for exciting a glass membrane. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Conical paper and resin are commonly used as diaphragm materials for loudspeakers. While they have a high loss coefficient and are less prone to resonant vibration, these materials exhibit very good sound reproduction in the audible range. However, these materials themselves have a low sound velocity when excited at high frequencies, meaning the vibration that occurs within them does not simply follow a sound wave frequency, potentially resulting in a split vibration. Consequently, these materials make it difficult to achieve a desired sound pressure level, especially in the high-frequency range.

[0003] Investigations were carried out into the use of materials that provide propagation at high speeds of sound, such as metals, ceramics and glass, instead of conical paper or resin to produce a membrane.

[0004] Such materials include a single glass plate for a loudspeaker diaphragm (Patent Document 1) and a laminated glass or composite glass in which a 0.5 mm thick polymer layer of the polybutyl type is enclosed between two glass plates (Non-Patent Document 1).

[0005] Patent document 2 describes an acoustic transducer with an element that limits the bending of the diaphragm. Patent document 3 describes a transparent acoustic panel capable of reproducing sound with stable amplification over a wide frequency range. DOCUMENT LISTPATENT DOCUMENTS Patent document 1: JP H05 - 227 590 A Patent document 2: US 2014 / 0 262 599 A1 Patent document 3: JP 2011 - 259 378 A NON-PATENT DOCUMENTS

[0006] Non-Patent Document 1: Olivier Mal et al., “A Novel Glass Laminated Structure for Flat Panel Loudspeaker,” AES Convention 124, 7343. SUMMARY OF INVENTIONAL PROBLEMS

[0007] The aforementioned loudspeakers, which utilize a glass diaphragm, feature a structure in which an excitation device is attached to a single, continuous glass diaphragm. Consequently, the distinction between an excitation zone, where the excitation device is located, and a vibration zone, which emits sound radiation, is not clear. As a result, noise generated by vibration in the excitation zone is superimposed on sound generated in the vibration zone, creating an intensity distribution of sound pressure generated in an adjacent space by sound radiation from the glass diaphragm. Furthermore, the directivity is reduced by the omnidirectional propagation of sound.

[0008] In light of the foregoing, it is an object of the present invention to provide a vibration device that can form a uniform sound pressure distribution, provide a good frequency characteristic and suppress a reduction in directivity when performing excitation using a glass membrane. SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM

[0009] As a result of carrying out careful investigations, the present inventors have made the invention by finding that the aforementioned problems can be solved by using a structure that prevents a vibration generated in an excitation area of ​​a glass membrane from propagating through air to the adjacent space, by arranging the excitation area in a closed space, which is an interior space of an enclosure element, and thereby clearly separating the excitation area and a vibration area from each other.

[0010] That is, the invention provides the following: A vibration device comprising: a glass membrane; an excitation device that is attached to the glass membrane and sets the glass membrane into vibration; an enclosure element that defines an interior space by enclosing a section, including a mounting position for the excitation device, of the glass membrane, wherein an end section of the glass membrane is exposed through an opening of the interior space to the outside of the interior space; and a shielding element for sound insulation between an edge of the opening and the glass membrane, wherein the shielding element divides the glass membrane into an excitation area located inside the interior and a vibration area located outside the interior. ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The invention can provide a vibration device that can provide a uniform sound pressure distribution and suppress a reduction in directivity when performing an excitation using a glass membrane. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [ Fig. 1] Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view showing an external form of a vibration device according to the present invention with a first example setup. [ Fig. 2] Fig. 2 is a front view, viewed from the direction indicated by arrow Va, of the vibration device located in the Fig. 1 is shown. [ Fig. 3] Fig. 3 is a sectional view of the vibration device along line III-III in the Fig. 2. [ Fig. 4] Fig. Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an excitation range and a vibration range of a glass membrane. [ Fig. 5] Fig. Figure 5 is a sectional view of a vibration device with a second example setup. [ Fig. 6] Fig. Figure 6 is a sectional view of a vibration device with a third example setup. [ Fig. 7] Fig. Figure 7 is a sectional view of a vibration device with a fourth example setup. [ Fig. 8] Fig. 8(A) is a schematic front view of a vibration device with a fifth example setup and Fig. 8(B), Fig. 8(C) and Fig. Figures 8(D) are schematic front views showing further examples of a construction. [ Fig. 9] Fig. 9(A) and Fig. Figure 9(B) shows schematic front views of a vibration device with a sixth example setup. [ Fig. 10] Fig. Figure 10 is a sectional view of a specific example of the glass membrane. [ Fig. 11] Fig. Figure 11 is a sectional view of another example of the glass vibration device. [ Fig. 12] Fig. 12(A) and Fig. 12(B) are sectional views of further examples of the glass vibration device. [ Fig. 13] Fig. Figure 13 is a graph showing the sound frequency versus sound pressure level characteristics in a case where no sound-absorbing element is used, a case where a sound-absorbing element is attached to the glass membrane, a case where a sound-absorbing element is attached to the inner wall surfaces of the enclosure element, and a case where a sound-absorbing element is attached to the glass membrane and the inner wall surfaces of the enclosure element. [ Fig. 14] Fig. Figure 14 is a sectional view of a glass vibration device which is provided with a sealing element at the edge. [ Fig. 15] Fig. Figure 15 is a sectional view of a glass vibration device in which at least one part of opposing surfaces of glass plates of a glass plate composite is provided with a sealing element. [ Fig. 16] Fig. 16(A) is a sectional view of a glass vibration device with a step section at the edge and Fig. Figure 16(B) is an enlarged view of part K in the Fig. 16(A). [ Fig. 17] Fig. Figure 17 is a sectional view of a curved glass vibration device. [ Fig. 18] Fig. 18(A) and Fig. 18(B) show glass vibration devices with a step section at the edge; Fig. 18(A) is a sectional view showing a state in which the glass vibration device is curved so that it has a concave shape, and Fig. Figure 18(B) is a sectional view showing a state in which the glass vibration device is curved so that it has a convex shape. [ Fig. 19] Fig. Figure 19 is a partial sectional view showing how an excitation device is attached to a glass membrane, the excitation area of ​​which is formed by a single glass plate. DESCRIPTION OF EXECUTION FORMS

[0012] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the drawings. In the drawings referred to below, elements or components that are identical or corresponding to one another are designated with the same reference numeral or corresponding reference numerals, and multiple descriptions are therefore omitted. The drawings are not intended to show relative sizes between elements or components unless otherwise indicated. Consequently, specific dimensions may be selected appropriately with reference to the following non-limiting embodiments.

[0013] In the description, the designation “-” (or the word “to”), which is used to specify a range of numbers, indicates a range that includes the numerical values ​​specified before and after it as a lower limit and an upper limit, respectively.

[0014] In this description, the terms "mass" and "weight" have the same meaning. <Erster Beispielaufbau>

[0015] The Fig. Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view showing an external form of a first example setup of a vibration device according to the invention. Fig. 2 is a front view, viewed from the direction indicated by arrow Va, of the vibration device located in the Fig. 1 is shown. Fig. 3 is a sectional view of the vibration device along line III-III in the Fig. 2.

[0016] As it is in the Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the vibration device 100 comprises a glass membrane 11, (a) excitation device(s) 13, an enclosure element 15, a shielding element 17 and a support element 23.

[0017] The glass membrane 11 generates sound by being excited by vibrations produced by the excitation device 13 (whose detailed structure will be described later). The glass membrane 11 can be either transparent (i.e., what lies behind it is visible), opaque, or selectively transparent (i.e., it acts as an optical filter, such as a bandpass filter, or has a surface treatment layer that provides a light-scattering surface) when viewed from the direction indicated by the arrow Va in the Fig. The glass membrane 11 is specified in Figure 1. It can be either a substrate or a composite of glass plates comprising several substrates. The glass membrane 11 is preferably made of a material with a high longitudinal sound wave velocity and can, for example, be a glass plate, a transparent ceramic, or a single crystal of sapphire. Although the glass membrane 11 thus formed has a rectangular outer shape, its structure is not limited to this.

[0018] The excitation device 13 is attached to the glass diaphragm 11 and causes the glass diaphragm 11 to vibrate in response to an applied electrical signal. Although not shown in any drawing, the excitation device 13 comprises, for example, a coil unit electrically connected to an external device, a magnetic circuit unit, and an excitation unit connected to the coil unit or the magnetic circuit unit. When an electrical signal for sound generation is applied from the external device to the coil unit, vibration occurs in the coil unit or the magnetic circuit unit due to an interaction between the coil unit and the magnetic circuit unit. The vibration of the coil unit or the magnetic circuit unit is transmitted to the excitation unit, and then the vibration is transmitted from the excitation unit to the glass diaphragm 11.

[0019] At least one, preferably several, excitation device(s) 13 is / are attached to the glass membrane 11. In this example setup, two excitation devices 13 are attached to a main surface of the glass membrane 11 such that they are spaced apart from each other and arranged along one side of the outer circumference of the glass membrane 11.

[0020] The housing element 15 is box-shaped, enclosing a section of the glass membrane 11, including the mounting positions of the excitation devices 13, and defining an interior space 19 containing the excitation devices 13 and a portion of the glass membrane 11. The other section of the glass membrane 11 is exposed to the outside of the interior space 19 through an opening 21 defined by the housing element 15. That is, one end section of the glass membrane 11 is exposed to the outside of the interior space 19 through the opening 21. The "one end section" of the glass membrane 11 represents a more distant end section of the glass membrane 11, located closer to the mounting positions of the excitation devices 13, and a farther away end section of the glass membrane 11.

[0021] A sound-absorbing element (not shown), such as felt or a sponge, can be attached to the inner or outer surfaces of the enclosure element 15. This increases the sound attenuation effect in the interior 19. The sound-absorbing element is preferably attached to all or part of the inner surfaces of the enclosure element 15. In particular, while resonant sound-absorbing elements, such as a porous sound-absorbing element and a perforated panel, can be used as the sound-absorbing element, the use of the porous sound-absorbing element is preferred with regard to the absorbable sound frequency range. The sound absorption ratio at perpendicular impingement of the sound-absorbing element at 1 kHz is preferably 0.25 or greater, more preferably 0.5 or greater, and even more preferably 0.75 or greater.The thickness of the sound-absorbing element is preferably 0.5 mm or greater and 20 mm or less, more preferably 1 mm or greater and 10 mm or less. The contact area of ​​the sound-absorbing element is preferably 25% or more and 50% or less of the surface area of ​​the enclosure element 15 that defines the interior space 19.

[0022] The shielding element 17 for sound insulation between the opening 21 of the housing element 15 and the glass membrane 11 is provided in the opening 21. The shielding element 17 makes the interior space 19 a closed space and divides the glass membrane 11 into an excitation zone A1, which is located inside the interior space 19, and a vibration zone A2, which is located outside the interior space 19 (see the Fig. 2).

[0023] The shielding element 17 can be a general polymer material composition having a hydrocarbon composition, a silicone composition, or a fluorine-containing composition. However, the shielding element 17 is preferably made of a material having a storage modulus G' of 1.0 × 10 2 up to 1.0 × 10 10 Pa, more preferred 1.0 × 10 3 up to 1.0 × 10 3Pa is exhibited when the dynamic viscoelasticity of a layer formed to a thickness of 1 mm is measured in a compression mode at 25 °C at a frequency of 1 Hz. The term "shielding" used above, achieved by the shielding element 17, refers to a condition in which it is in contact with the glass membrane 11 to such an extent that the glass membrane 11 can perform a slight movement on the order of micrometers, rather than being completely fixed. This prevents sound from escaping from the interior 19.

[0024] In this assembly, a support element 23 is provided between the floor of the interior 19 of the housing element 15 and a part of the excitation area A1 of the glass membrane 11 to ensure that the housing element 15 supports the glass membrane 11. The support element 23 is preferably an elastic layer made of a damping material, such as rubber, felt, or a sponge.

[0025] A first direction Ax1 is said to be a direction in which the glass membrane 11 projects outwards from within the interior 19, and a second direction Ax2 is said to be a direction perpendicular to the first direction Ax1 in the plane of the plate; then the maximum width Lw of the glass membrane 11 in the second direction Ax2 is preferably greater than or equal to a maximum width Lh in the first direction Ax1 (i.e., Lw ≥ Lh). In this case, the distance from the excitation devices 13, which are arranged in the excitation region A1 of the glass membrane 11, is not too great at any point in the entire vibration region A2, and thus a vibration generated by the excitation devices 13 propagates to the vibration region A2 while being sufficiently strong.

[0026] According to the vibration device 100 with the above structure, which is described in the Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the excitation devices 13 are attached to the glass membrane 11, and the glass membrane 11 is divided by the shielding element 17 into the excitation zone A1, which is located in the interior space 19 within the housing element 15, and the vibration zone A2, which is located outside the interior space 19 and serves for sound radiation. Consequently, sound generated in the excitation zone A1 by vibrations of the excitation devices 13 is attenuated in the interior space 19. Furthermore, sound shielding is provided in the opening 21 of the interior space 19 between the opening 21 of the interior space 19 and the glass membrane 11 by the shielding element 17, thereby preventing sound generated by the excitation zone A1 in the interior space 19 from escaping to the outside of the interior space 19.

[0027] That is, if the vibration of the excitation devices 13, which are provided in the excitation area A1, propagates to the vibration area A2 and is radiated as sound from the vibration area A2, the phenomenon of sound (a noise) generated in the excitation area A1 being superimposed on the sound radiated from the vibration area A2 can be prevented. That is, the single continuous glass membrane 11 is divided into the excitation area A1 and the vibration area A2, and the excitation area A1 is defined in the interior 19 by the housing element 15 and the shielding element 17.In this way, a noise generated in the excitation area A1 is contained within the interior space 19 and prevented from escaping it. This prevents the phenomenon of unnecessary noise generated in the excitation area A1 by vibrations of the excitation devices 13 being transmitted as sound through the air to a person who is meant to hear it. As a result, a reduction in directivity due to the undirected propagation of sound is prevented. Furthermore, since a vibration is radiated as sound only from the vibration area A2 of the glass membrane 11 into the environment, the sound pressure distribution of the sound radiation can be made uniform.

[0028] The Fig. Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the excitation range A1 and the vibration range A2 of the glass membrane 11.

[0029] Ss and Sv are said to represent the areas of the excitation region A1 and the vibration region A2 of the glass membrane 11, respectively. The area ratio Ss / Sv is then preferably 0.01 or greater and 1.0 or less, more preferably 0.02 or greater and 0.5 or less, and even more preferably 0.05 or greater and 0.1 or less.

[0030] The efficiency of sound pressure generation decreases if the area of ​​the excitation zone A1 is too large relative to the area of ​​the vibration zone A2, and excitation control cannot be carried out efficiently if it is too small. Consequently, by adjusting the area ratio in the aforementioned zone, the sound radiation from the vibration zone A2 can be carried out with high efficiency in accordance with the vibrations of the excitation devices 13.

[0031] The total area of ​​the glass membrane 11 is preferably 0.01 m² 2 or larger, preferably 0.1 m 2or larger and even more preferably 0.3 m 2 or larger. Adjusting the total area of ​​the glass membrane 11 in this range makes it easier to maintain the aforementioned advantages of achieving a uniform sound pressure distribution and preventing a reduction in directivity. <Zweiter Beispielaufbau>

[0032] The Fig. Figure 5 is a sectional view of a vibration device with a second example setup. Fig. Figure 5 corresponds to a sectional view along line III-III in the Fig. 2.

[0033] In the vibration device 200, which has this configuration, excitation devices 13 are arranged on the two respective surfaces of the glass membrane 11. The other parts of the configuration are identical to those in the first example configuration.

[0034] According to this design, the glass membrane 11 can be excited even more strongly, thus generating a higher sound pressure, since the excitation devices 13 are arranged on one main surface and the other main surface of the glass membrane 11. Furthermore, several excitation devices 13 can be arranged with high space efficiency in a case where the area of ​​an excitation region of the glass membrane 11 is limited. <Dritter Beispielaufbau>

[0035] The Fig. Figure 6 is a sectional view of a vibration device with a third example setup. Fig. Figure 6 corresponds to a sectional view along line III-III in the Fig. 2.

[0036] In the vibration device 300 with this structure, a glass membrane 11A is preferably attached to an enclosure element 15A by means of a support element 23A comprising a screw 31, a sleeve 33 and a nut 35.

[0037] A through-hole 11a, into which the screw 31 is to be inserted, is formed by a glass membrane 11A, and a through-hole 15a is also formed by a side wall of the housing element 15A. The screw 31 is inserted into the through-hole 11a, and a shaft section of the screw 31 is inserted through the sleeve 33 into the through-hole 15a. A nut 35 is attached to a shaft section of the screw 31 that projects from the through-hole 15a, thereby connecting the glass membrane 11A and the housing element 15A.

[0038] Since the screw 31 is to be positioned in a tightened state within the interior 19 of this housing element 15A, the housing element 15A can be formed like a box by combining several elements, allowing the screw to be tightened in a disassembled state. The housing element 15A can be provided with a working window (not shown) near the screw tightening position. Furthermore, a rubber sleeve can be arranged between the screw and the nut to isolate vibration between the glass membrane 11A and the housing element 15A.

[0039] In the vibration device 300 with this design, the glass membrane 11 can be attached to the housing element 15A at a desired position by means of fasteners such as the screw 31 and the nut 35. As a result, the vibration device 300 can be arranged in a desired position, i.e., the degrees of freedom with regard to its installation are increased. <Vierter Beispielaufbau>

[0040] The Fig. Figure 7 is a sectional view of a vibration device with a fourth example setup. Fig. 7 corresponds to a sectional view along line III-III in the Fig. 2.

[0041] In the vibration device 400 with this configuration, an interior space 19 is defined between the glass membrane 11 and an enclosure element 15B. That is, an interior space 19 is formed as a closed space by attaching the enclosure element 15B and the glass membrane 11 to one another by means of a shielding element 17 and a support element 23.

[0042] In this setup, sound (sound from the rear surface) is generated in excitation region A1 by a surface 39 opposite a surface 37 to which an exciter 13 is attached. Accordingly, the section of the glass membrane 11 in excitation region A1 is attached to an element 41, which is distinct from the vibrating device 400, so that a unified element is formed. This prevents sound from the rear surface, generated by the opposite surface 39, from being transmitted through the air as the medium to a receiver located anywhere in the direction indicated by arrow Vb. Example methods for attaching the vibrating device 400 to the other element 41 include a method using fasteners, such as a screw and nut, and a method using an adhesive.The glass membrane 11 is easily set into vibration by the fact that the other element 41 is made of a material with low elasticity, or by forming a vibration isolation layer on the surface 39.

[0043] In the vibration device 400 with this setup, the structure of the enclosure element 15B can be simplified by defining the interior space 19 by enclosing the receiver-side surface 37 with the enclosure element 15B in the excitation area A1 of the glass membrane 11. <Fünfter Beispielaufbau>

[0044] The Fig. 8(A) is a schematic front view of a vibration device with a fifth example setup.

[0045] In the vibration device 500 with this setup, a glass membrane 11B has a shape that differs from the rectangle in which the glass membranes described above are formed. The other parts of the setup are identical to those in the first example setup described above.

[0046] The glass membrane 11B has a rectangular first region 45 in which excitation devices 13 are mounted, and a rectangular second region 47, which is connected to the first region 45 and has a larger area than the first region 45. The first region 45 is connected to the second region 47 at the midpoint of one side of the rectangular shape of the second region 47 and is arranged in an interior space 19 defined by the housing element 15. The first region 45 and the second region 47 of this assembly correspond to the excitation region A1 and the vibration region A2, respectively.

[0047] According to the vibration device 500 with this design, the area of ​​the vibration range A2 can be made larger than that of the excitation range A1 without causing the outer circumference of the vibration range A2 to be spaced far away from the excitation devices 13 to a large extent.

[0048] The second area 47 can be shaped like a trapezoid instead of a rectangle, as shown in the Fig. Figure 8(B) shows that, according to a vibration device 500A, this design, because the second area 47A is trapezoidal in shape, better avoids interference from elements in the vicinity of the vibration device 500A and more easily ensures a vibration area A2 larger than the first area 45A than in the case of a rectangular second area 47. Furthermore, the second area 47A can be given another desired shape, such as an ellipse or a polygon.

[0049] Instead of providing the housing element 15 adjacent to an end section of the glass membrane, as in the Fig. As shown in Figure 8(C), it can be provided in the center along the longitudinal direction of a glass membrane 11D. In this case, a first region 45B, enclosed by a housing element 15C located in the center of the glass membrane 11D, serves as the excitation region A1, and second regions 47B and 47C, located outside the housing element 15, serve as the respective vibration regions A2. According to the vibration device 500B with this configuration, vibrations generated by the excitation devices 13 propagate to the two second regions 47B and 47C (vibration regions A2), and sound radiation can be emitted from them simultaneously. This allows the sound radiation to exhibit a sound pressure distribution with greater uniformity, while preventing a reduction in directivity due to undirected sound propagation.

[0050] Furthermore, as stated in the Fig. As shown in Figure 8(D), an enclosure element 15D is arranged along the outer circumference of a glass membrane 11E such that an outer circumferential section of the glass membrane 11E is formed as a first region 45C, which serves as an excitation region A1, and a central section of the glass membrane 11E is formed as a second region 47D, which serves as a vibration region A2.

[0051] According to a vibration device 500C with this configuration, vibrations generated by excitation devices 13, arranged in the outer circumferential section of the glass membrane 11E, propagate to the second area 47D and are emitted from the second area 47. Furthermore, no part of any noise generated in the first area 45C escapes from the interior 19, which is defined by the housing element 15D. <Sechster Beispielaufbau>

[0052] The Fig. 9(A) and Fig. Figure 9(B) shows schematic front views of a vibration device with a sixth example setup.

[0053] In the vibration device 600 with this setup, a glass membrane 11F is provided in such a way that it is movable with respect to an enclosure element 15E.

[0054] The enclosure element 15E comprises a body section 51, which defines an interior space 19, and a frame section 53, which is arranged along the outer circumference of the glass membrane 11F. A support element 23B supports the glass membrane 11F in such a way that the glass membrane 11F and the enclosure element 15E can be moved relative to each other.

[0055] As it is in the Fig. As shown in Figure 9(A), the glass membrane 11F comprises a first region 45D, which is arranged inside the interior 19 and to which excitation devices 13 are attached, and a second region 47E, which is located outside the interior 19. The first region 45D and the second region 47E are separated by a shielding element 17.

[0056] The frame section 53 of the housing element 15E is arranged along the outer circumference of the second area 47E of the glass membrane 11F. The frame section 53 is a frame body that extends along the outer circumference of the second area 47E. Optionally, the frame section 53 is provided with a damping element 55 between the frame section 53 and the glass membrane 11F.

[0057] A guide hole 61, extending through the glass membrane 11F in its thickness direction, is formed in the first region 45D. A driver 65, supported by an end section of a pivot lever 63, is slidably inserted into the guide hole 61. The other end section of the pivot lever 63 is pivotably supported by the housing element 15E via a rotary support shaft 67. The rotary support shaft 67 is connected to a drive unit, such as a motor (not shown), and is driven by the drive unit. When the rotary support shaft 67 is rotated, the pivot lever 63 is pivoted on the rotary support shaft 67.

[0058] In the vibration device 600 with this setup, when the pivot lever 63 is driven by the drive unit in a direction indicated by arrow P in the Fig. As indicated in 9(A), the driver 65 is pivoted along the guide hole 61. As a result, the glass membrane 11F is moved in a direction indicated by the arrow Q in the Fig. 9(B) is specified. In this way, the areas of the excitation region A1 and the vibration region A2 can be varied.

[0059] The vibration device of the first to sixth example setups mentioned above can, for example, be used as an element of an electronic device, examples of which include a broadband loudspeaker, a loudspeaker for reproducing a bass sound in a range of 15 Hz to 200 Hz, a loudspeaker for reproducing a high-frequency sound in a range of 10 kHz to 100 kHz, and a large loudspeaker with a diaphragm area of ​​0.2 m². 2or larger, a planar loudspeaker, a cylindrical loudspeaker, a transparent loudspeaker, a cover glass for a mobile device that acts as a loudspeaker, a cover glass for a TV display, a screen film, a display that generates a video signal and an audio signal from the same surface, a loudspeaker for a portable display, an electronic bulletin board, and lighting devices. The loudspeaker can be used for music, an alarm tone, etc.

[0060] The vibration device can also be used as a microphone diaphragm or a vibration sensor by installing a vibration detection element, such as an accelerometer.

[0061] The vibration device can be used as an internal vibration element in a transport machine, such as a vehicle, or as a vehicle or onboard loudspeaker. For example, the vibration device can be used as any of various types of interior wall surfaces acting as loudspeakers, such as a side mirror, sun visor, instrument panel, dashboard, headliner, and door. Each of these wall surfaces can also be used to act as a microphone or a diaphragm for active noise cancellation.

[0062] For example, the vibration device can be used as an opening element, such as in construction or transport machinery. In this case, a function such as IR blocking, UV blocking, or coloring can be added to the membrane.

[0063] In particular, the vibration device can be applied to any loudspeaker installed inside or outside a vehicle, and to a windshield, side window, rear window, and roof window of a vehicle with a sound-insulating function. The vibration device can also be used as any vehicle window pane, structural element, and decorative panel that are enhanced with respect to water repellency, snow accumulation resistance, ice accumulation resistance, or dirt resistance by means of sound wave vibration. In particular, the vibration device can be used as any lens, sensor, and cover glass thereof, in addition to a vehicle window pane, mirror, and flat or curved panel element for mounting in the vehicle.

[0064] The design elements include a window pane, a door pane, and a roof pane; an interior element; an exterior element; a structural element; an exterior wall; and a cover glass for a solar battery, each of which can function as a membrane or a vibration-sensing device. Furthermore, the vibration-sensing device can be used as a partition or mirrored wall surface in banks, hospitals, hotels, restaurants, offices, etc. Each of these can be used as a sound-reflecting panel (multiple reflection panel). Additionally, water repellency, snow accumulation resistance, and dirt protection (as mentioned above) can be improved by the sound wave vibration.

[0065] The enclosure element and the glass membrane described above can themselves be used to form the interior space 19 of any vibration device. Furthermore, for example, a vehicle body and door wall surface, as well as a sliding window frame (example of a structural element), can be used.

[0066] With respect to each excitation device, the excitation power can be increased by suppressing a vibration of an excitation device body by attaching the back of each excitation device to a backplate, frame or the like.

[0067] Furthermore, sound insulation can be improved by reducing the speed of sound propagation through lowering the internal pressure of the interior space 19 or by filling it with helium gas. The transmission of sound through the enclosure element or a resonance within the interior space can be reduced or suppressed by placing a sound-insulating material or a sound-absorbing element within the interior space. <Spezifischer Beispielaufbau einer Glasmembran>

[0068] As will be described in detail later, the glass membrane, which is an element of the vibration device, preferably has a loss coefficient at 25 °C of 1 × 10 -3 or larger and a longitudinal wave sound speed in the thickness direction of 4.0 × 10 3 m / s or greater. The expression "the loss coefficient is large" means that the vibration damping capacity is high.

[0069] Regarding the loss coefficient, a value calculated using a half-width method is used. If f is defined as the resonance frequency of a material and W is defined as the frequency width at a point that has decreased by -3 dB from the peak amplitude h (namely, the point of (maximum amplitude) -3 [dB]), the loss coefficient is defined as a value represented by {W / f}.

[0070] To prevent resonance, the loss coefficient can be increased, which means that the frequency width W with respect to the amplitude h becomes relatively large and the peak becomes wider.

[0071] The loss coefficient is specific to a material or similar object. For example, the loss coefficient of a simple glass plate varies depending on its composition, relative density, etc. The loss coefficient can be measured using a method for testing the dynamic modulus of elasticity, such as a resonance method.

[0072] The longitudinal speed of sound represents the propagation speed of longitudinal waves through a membrane. The longitudinal speed of sound and the Young's modulus can be measured using an ultrasonic pulse method specified in JIS-R1602-1995.

[0073] With regard to a specific structure for obtaining a large loss coefficient and a high longitudinal wave sound velocity, it is preferred that the glass membrane comprises two or more glass plates and also includes a predetermined fluid layer between at least one pair of glass plates.

[0074] The glass plate represents either an inorganic or an organic glass. Examples of organic glass include PMMA-based resins, PC-based resins, PS-based resins, PET-based resins, and cellulose-based resins, which are typically transparent.

[0075] When two or more glass plates are used, one inorganic or organic glass plate, as mentioned above, can be used as one glass plate, and any of the different layers or films, such as a resin film made of a resin other than organic glass, a metal film made of aluminum or the like, and a ceramic layer made of ceramic, can be used in place of the other glass plate. With regard to design possibilities, workability, and weight, the use of an organic glass, a resin material, a composite material, a fiber material, a metal material, or the like is preferred.With regard to vibration characteristics, the use of an inorganic glass, a composite material or a fiber material with high stiffness, a metal material or a ceramic material is preferred.

[0076] Of the resin materials, those that can be formed into a flat or curved sheet shape are preferred. Preferred composite and fiber materials include resin composites or carbon fiber composites containing a high-hardness filler, Kevlar fibers, etc. Preferred metal materials include aluminum, magnesium, copper, silver, gold, iron, titanium, SUS, etc. Alloy materials, etc., may also be used as appropriate.

[0077] Even more preferred ceramic materials are ceramic or single-crystal materials, such as Al₂O₃, SiC, Si₃N₄, Al₂O₃, mullite, zirconium oxide, yttrium oxide, and YAG. The use of transparent ceramic materials is particularly preferred. (Fluid layer)

[0078] A high loss coefficient of the glass membrane can be achieved by providing a fluid layer containing a liquid between at least one pair of glass plates. In particular, an even higher loss coefficient can be obtained by adjusting the viscosity and surface tension of the fluid layer in preferred regions. This is assumed to be due to the fact that the pair of glass plates is not bonded together, and each glass plate, unlike in a case where a pair of glass plates is bonded together by means of an adhesive layer, retains its individual vibrational characteristics.In this description, the term "fluid" refers to anything that exhibits fluidity and includes a liquid, and the fluid includes a liquid, a semi-solid substance, a mixture of a solid powder and a liquid, a solid gel (a jelly-like substance) impregnated with a liquid, and the like.

[0079] The viscosity coefficient of the fluid layer at 25 °C is preferably 1 × 10 -4 up to 1 × 10 3The surface tension of the fluid layer at 25 °C is preferably between 15 and 80 mN / m. If the viscosity is too low, vibrations are less likely to be transmitted. If the viscosity is too high, the pair of glass plates located on opposite sides of the fluid layer will adhere to each other and exhibit vibrational behavior similar to a single glass plate, and resonant vibrations will be less likely to be damped. If the surface tension is too low, the adhesion between the pair of glass plates will be so weak that vibrations will be less likely to be transmitted. If the surface tension is too high, the pair of glass plates located on opposite sides of the fluid layer will adhere to each other and exhibit vibrational behavior similar to a single glass plate, and resonant vibrations will be less likely to be damped.

[0080] The viscosity coefficient of the fluid layer at 25 °C is preferably 1 × 10 -3 Pa · s or larger, even more preferred 1 × 10 -2 Pa·s or greater. The viscosity coefficient of the fluid layer at 25 °C is preferably 1 × 10 2 The surface tension of the fluid layer at 25 °C is preferably 20 mN / m or greater, more preferably 30 mN / m or greater.

[0081] The viscosity coefficient of the fluid layer can be measured, for example, using a rotational viscometer. The surface tension of the fluid layer can be measured, for example, using a ring method.

[0082] If the fluid layer has too high a vapor pressure, it can evaporate, causing the glass vibration device to lose its function. Therefore, the vapor pressure of the fluid layer at 25 °C and 1 atm is preferably 1 × 10 4Pa or smaller, even more preferred 5 × 10 3 Pa or smaller, and even more preferably 1 × 10 3 Pa or less. If the vapor pressure is high, the fluid layer can be sealed, for example, to prevent its evaporation. In this case, it is ensured that a sealing element does not impede the vibration of the glass vibration device.

[0083] With regard to maintaining high stiffness and transmitting vibrations, it is preferred that the fluid layer be as thin as possible. In particular, when the combined thickness of the pair of glass plates is 1 mm or less, the thickness of the fluid layer is preferably 1 / 10 or less, more preferably 1 / 20 or less, even more preferably 1 / 30 or less, even more preferably 1 / 50 or less, even more preferably 1 / 70 or less, and even more preferably 1 / 100 or less of the combined thickness of the two glass plates. When the combined thickness of the pair of glass plates exceeds 1 mm, the thickness of the fluid layer is preferably 100 µm or less, more preferably 50 µm or less, even more preferably 30 µm or less, even more preferably 20 µm or less, even more preferably 15 µm or less, and even more preferably 10 µm or less.Regarding the lower limit, the thickness of the fluid layer is preferably 0.01 µm or greater with regard to simple film formation and long-term stability.

[0084] It is preferred that the fluid layer be chemically stable and not react with the pair of glass plates located on its respective sides. The term "chemically stable" means that the fluid layer, for example, is less prone to quality changes (degradation) or does not solidify, evaporate, decompose, change color, chemically react with a glass, or undergo any similar change, at least within a temperature range of -20 °C to 70 °C.

[0085] Examples of components that can be used as a liquid layer include water, oils, organic solvents, liquid polymers, ionic liquids, and mixtures of two or more of these. More specific examples are propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, tripropylene glycol, an unbranched silicone oil (dimethyl silicone oil, methylphenyl silicone oil, and methyl hydrogen silicone oil), a modified silicone oil, an acrylic acid-based polymer, liquid butadiene, a glycerin paste, a fluorine-based solvent, a fluorine-based resin, acetone, ethanol, xylene, toluene, water, a mineral oil, and a mixture thereof. It is preferred that the liquid layer contains at least one substance selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol, dimethyl silicone oil, methylphenyl silicone oil, methyl hydrogen silicone oil, and a modified silicone oil. It is preferred that the liquid layer contains propylene glycol or silicone oil as a major component.

[0086] In addition to the aforementioned substances, a powder-dispersed slurry can be used as the fluid layer. While the fluid layer is preferably a uniform fluid to increase the loss coefficient, the aforementioned slurry is effective when the glass vibration device is given a design feature or functionality, such as coloring or fluorescence. The powder content in the fluid layer is preferably 0 to 10% by volume, more preferably 0 to 5% by volume. To prevent sedimentation, the particle diameter of the powder is preferably 10 nm to 1 µm, more preferably 0.5 µm or less.

[0087] With regard to adding a design feature or functionality, the fluid layer can contain a fluorescent material. In this case, the fluid layer can be a slurry-like fluid layer in which a fluorescent material is dispersed in powder form, or a uniform fluid layer in which a fluorescent material is mixed in liquid form. This allows the glass vibration device to be given optical functions, such as light absorption and emission.

[0088] The Fig. Figure 10 is a sectional view showing a specific example of the glass membrane.

[0089] In the glass membrane 11, it is preferred that at least one pair of glass plates 73 and 75 is provided such that the fluid layer 71 is arranged between the pair of glass plates 73 and 75, which surround it on both sides. The fluid layer 71 prevents resonance of glass plate 75 with glass plate 73 or dampens a resonant vibration of glass plate 75 if resonance occurs in glass plate 73. The presence of the fluid layer 71 can increase the loss coefficient of the glass membrane 11 compared to the case where only the glass plate is provided.

[0090] It is preferred that the loss coefficient of the glass membrane 11 be as large as possible, since the vibration is dampened more strongly. The loss coefficient of the glass membrane 11 at 25 °C is preferably 1 × 10 3 or larger, preferably 2 × 10 3 or larger, and even more preferably 5 × 10 3or larger. Since the reproducibility of a high-frequency sound from a glass membrane increases with increasing sound speed, the longitudinal sound wave speed of the glass membrane 11 in the thickness direction is 4.0 × 10 3 m / s or greater, preferably 4.5 × 10 3 m / s or greater, and even more preferably 5.0 × 10 3 m / s or greater. Although there are no specific upper limits, the longitudinal sound wave speed of the glass membrane in the thickness direction is preferably 7.0 × 10 3 m / s or less.

[0091] The glass membrane 11 can be used as a translucent element if its linear transmittance is high. Consequently, the transmittance for visible light, measured according to JIS-R3106-1998, is preferably 60% or higher, more preferably 65% ​​or higher, and even more preferably 70% or higher. Example applications as a translucent element include a transparent loudspeaker, a transparent microphone, and an opening element for construction or vehicles.

[0092] It is also advantageous to perform refractive index matching to increase the transmittance of the glass membrane 11. That is, it is preferred that the refractive indices of the glass plate and the refractive index of the fluid layer forming the glass membrane 11 are as close as possible to each other, since reflection and interference at the interfaces can be reduced. In particular, the differences between the refractive index of the fluid layer and the refractive indices of the pair of glass plates in contact with the fluid layer are preferably 0.2 or less, more preferably 0.1 or less, and even more preferably 0.01 or less. (glass plate)

[0093] It is possible to color at least one of the fluid layers 71 and at least one of the glass plates forming the glass membrane 11. This is useful if it is desired to give the glass membrane 11 a design feature or functionality, such as IR blocking, UV blocking, or privacy glass function.

[0094] It is preferred that of the pair of glass plates comprising glass plates 73 and 75, one glass plate 73 and the other glass plate 75 have different highest peak values ​​of the resonance frequency. It is more preferred that the resonance frequency ranges do not overlap. However, even if the resonance frequency ranges of glass plates 73 and 75 do overlap or their highest peak values ​​are identical due to the presence of the fluid layer 71, the resonance of one glass plate 73 is not synchronized with the vibration of the other glass plate 75. As a result, a resonance is canceled out to some extent, leading to a larger loss coefficient than in the case where only the glass plates are present.

[0095] That is, it is preferred that the following formula 1 is satisfied, where Qa and wa are the resonance frequency (highest peak) and the half-width of the resonance amplitude of the glass plate 73 respectively, and Qb and wb are the resonance frequency (highest peak) and the half-width of the resonance amplitude of the glass plate 75 respectively: (wa+wb) / 4<|Qa−Qb|

[0096] The difference between the resonance frequencies of the glass plates 73 and 75 (|Qa - Qb|) increases to provide a large loss coefficient when the value of the left side of formula 1 becomes larger, which is preferred.

[0097] Furthermore, it is more preferred that the following formula 2 is satisfied, and it is even more preferred that the following formula 3 is satisfied: (wa+wb) / 2<|Qa−Qb| (wa+wb) / 1<|Qa−Qb|

[0098] The resonance frequency (highest peak) or the half-width of the resonance amplitude of each glass plate can be measured using the same method as a loss coefficient of the glass vibration device.

[0099] The mass difference between the glass plates 73 and 75 is preferably as small as possible, and it is more preferred that they have no mass difference at all. This is because, if the glass plates have a mass difference, the resonance of a lighter glass plate can be suppressed by a heavier glass plate, but it is difficult to suppress the resonance of the heavier glass plate by the lighter glass plate. That is, if the mass ratio deviates from 1 to a certain extent, the resonant vibrations of one and the other cannot, in principle, cancel each other out due to a difference in inertial force.

[0100] The mass difference between the glass plates 73 and 75, given by (glass plate 73) / (glass plate 75), is preferably 0.8 to 1.25 (8 / 10 to 10 / 8), more preferably 0.9 to 1.1 (9 / 10 to 10 / 9) and even more preferably 1.0 (10 / 10).

[0101] When the glass plates 73 and 75 are thinner, they can more easily approach each other via the fluid layer and can be set into vibration with less energy. Consequently, for use as a diaphragm in a loudspeaker or the like, it is preferred that the glass plates 73 and 75 be as thin as possible. In particular, the thickness of each of the glass plates 73 and 75 is preferably 15 mm or less, more preferably 10 mm or less, even more preferably 5 mm or less, even more preferably 3 mm or less, even more preferably 1.5 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.8 mm or less. On the other hand, if the glass plates 73 and 75 are too thin, the effects of surface defects on the glass plates 73 and 75 become so considerable that they tend to break or are difficult to harden. Therefore, the thickness of each of the glass plates 73 and 75 is preferably 0.01 mm or greater, and even more preferably 0.05 mm or greater.

[0102] In applications as an opening element for construction or for vehicles, where the generation of anomalous sound due to a resonance phenomenon should be suppressed, the thickness of each of the glass plates 73 and 75 is preferably 0.5 to 15 mm, more preferably 0.8 to 10 mm and even more preferably 1.0 to 8 mm.

[0103] For use as a membrane, it is preferred that at least one of the glass plates 73 and 75 has a large loss coefficient, since the glass membrane 11 has a high vibration damping coefficient. In particular, the loss coefficient of at least one of the glass plates 73 and 75 at 25 °C is preferably 1 × 10 -4 or larger, preferably 3 × 10 -4 or larger, and even more preferably 5 × 10 -4 or greater. Although there are no specific upper limits, the loss coefficient at 25 °C is preferably 5 × 10 with regard to productivity and manufacturing costs.-3 or smaller. Furthermore, the loss coefficients of both glass plates 73 and 75 are preferably within the aforementioned range. The loss coefficient of a glass plate can be measured using the same method as the loss coefficient of the glass membrane 11.

[0104] For use as a membrane, it is preferred that at least one of the glass plates 73 and 75 has a high longitudinal sound velocity in the thickness direction, as this increases the reproducibility of sound in a high-frequency range. In particular, the longitudinal sound velocity of the glass plate is preferably 5.0 × 10⁻⁶. 3 m / s or greater, preferably 5.5 × 10 3 m / s or greater, and even more preferably 6.0 × 10 3m / s or greater. Although there are no specific upper limits, the longitudinal wave sound speed is preferably 7.0 × 10⁻⁶ m / s with regard to productivity and the material costs of the glass plates. 3 m / s or less. It is more preferred that both glass plates 73 and 75 meet the aforementioned sound velocity value. The sound velocity of each glass plate can be measured using the same method as the longitudinal wave sound velocity of the glass vibration device.

[0105] Although there are no specific restrictions regarding the composition of glass plates 73 and 75, the composition, expressed as mass percent based on oxides, preferably lies within the following component ranges: SiO₂: 40 to 80 mass percent, Al₂O₃: 0 to 35 mass percent, B₂O₃: 0 to 15 mass percent, MgO: 0 to 20 mass percent, CaO: 0 to 20 mass percent, SrO: 0 to 20 mass percent, BaO: 0 to 20 mass percent, Li₂O: 0 to 20 mass percent, Na₂O: 0 to 25 mass percent, K₂O: 0 to 20 mass percent, TiO₂: 0 to 10 mass percent, and ZrO₂: 0 to 10 mass percent. Furthermore, the total content of the aforementioned substances should constitute 95 mass percent or more of the total glass.

[0106] More preferred component ranges of the composition of glass plates 73 and 75 (specified as wt% based on oxides) are as follows: SiO₂: 55 to 75 wt%, Al₂O₃: 0 to 25 wt%, B₂O₃: 0 to 12 wt%, MgO: 0 to 20 wt%, CaO: 0 to 20 wt%, SrO: 0 to 20 wt%, BaO: 0 to 20 wt%, Li₂O: 0 to 20 wt%, Na₂O: 0 to 25 wt%, K₂O: 0 to 15 wt%, TiO₂: 0 to 5 wt%, and ZrO₂: 0 to 5 wt%. Furthermore, the total content of the foregoing substances should be 95 wt% or more of the total glass.

[0107] Each of the glass plates 73 and 75 can be set into vibration with less energy if its density decreases. In particular, the density of each of the glass plates 73 and 75 is preferably 2.8 or lower, more preferably 2.6 or lower, and even more preferably 2.5 or lower. Although there are no specific restrictions regarding the lower limit, the density is preferably 2.2 or higher. The stiffness of each of the glass plates 73 and 75 increases as the specific modulus of elasticity, obtained by dividing the Young's modulus by the density of the glass plates 73 and 75, increases. In particular, the specific modulus of elasticity of each of the glass plates 73 and 75 is preferably 2.5 × 10⁻⁶. 7 m 2 / s 2 or larger, preferably 2.8 × 10 7 m 2 / s 2 or larger and even more preferably 3.0 × 10 7 m 2 / s 2or greater. Although there are no specific restrictions regarding the lower limit, the specific modulus of elasticity is preferably 4.0 × 10⁻⁶. 7 m 2 / s 2 or smaller.

[0108] While the number of glass plates forming the glass membrane 11 is two or more, three or more glass plates can be used, as shown in the Fig. Figure 11 shows that the glass plates 73 and 75, in the case of two glass plates, or the glass plates 73, 75, and 77, in the case of three or more glass plates, can all have different compositions, all have the same composition, or they can be a combination of glass plates with the same composition and one or more glass plates with a different composition. In particular, with regard to vibration damping, it is preferred to use two or more types of glass plates with different compositions. Accordingly, all glass plates can either have the same mass or thickness, or these can differ from one another, or some of the glass plates can differ from the others. With regard to vibration damping, it is preferred that all component glass plates have the same mass.

[0109] At least one of the glass plates forming the glass membrane 11 can be a physically tempered or chemically tempered glass plate. This is advantageous for preventing damage to the glass membrane 11, which is a composite of glass plates. To increase the strength of the glass membrane 11, it is preferred that the glass plate providing its outermost surface be a physically tempered or chemically tempered glass plate. It is more preferred that all component glass plates be physically tempered or chemically tempered glass plates.

[0110] The use of crystallized glass or phase-separated glass as the glass plate is advantageous for increasing the longitudinal sound wave speed or the strength. In particular, when an increase in the strength of the glass membrane 11, which is a glass plate composite, is desired, it is preferred that the glass plate providing its outermost surface be made of crystallized glass or phase-separated glass.

[0111] In the glass membrane 11, a coating layer 81, which is located in the Fig. 12(A) is shown, or a film or slide 83, which is shown in the Fig. As shown in Figure 12(B), the coating layer 81 is formed on at least one of the outermost surfaces of the glass plate composite within the limitations such that the advantages of the invention are not diminished. The formation of the coating layer 81 and the bonding or application of the film or foil 83 are suitable, for example, for preventing scattering and scratching. The thickness of the coating layer 81 or the film or foil 83 is preferably 1 / 5 or less than the thickness of the surface glass plate. The coating layer 81 and the film or foil 83 can be known materials. Examples of the coating layer 81 include a water-repellent coating, a hydrophilic coating, a water-lubricating coating, an oil-repellent coating, an anti-reflective coating, and a heat-barrier coating. Examples of the film or foil 83 include a film or foil 83.a film to prevent the scattering of a glass, a colored film, a UV blocking film, an IR blocking film, a heat shielding film, and an EM shielding film.

[0112] A sound-absorbing element, not shown in the figures, can be attached to all or part of at least one surface of the excitation area A1 of the glass membrane 11. In this case, the generation of standing waves is suppressed, thereby reducing the sound pressure level in the interior 19. The sound-absorbing element can be a porous sound-absorbing element made of a sponge, fiber, etc., or a resonant sound-absorbing element made of a perforated plate, etc. It is preferred to use a porous sound-absorbing element with regard to the frequency band that can be sound-absorbed and the reduction in the membrane's weight.

[0113] The sound-absorbing element can be attached to at least one surface of the excitation area A1 of the glass membrane 11 and can preferably be attached to both surfaces of the excitation area A1 of the glass membrane 11. If the sound-absorbing element is attached to the surface of the glass membrane 11 where the excitation device 13 is provided, it is preferred to cover the entire excitation device 13 with the sound-absorbing element.

[0114] The surface area of ​​the sound-absorbing element when attached to the glass membrane 11 is preferably 50% or more, more preferably 75% or more, of the surface area of ​​at least one surface of the excitation region A1. The sound-absorbing element preferably has a sound absorption coefficient of 0.25 or greater, more preferably 0.5 or greater, and even more preferably 0.75 or greater, when striking the element perpendicularly at 1 Hz in the excitation region A1. The thickness of the sound-absorbing element is preferably 0.5 mm or greater and 30 mm or less, more preferably 5 mm or greater and 20 mm or less.

[0115] The Fig. Figure 13 shows the sound pressure level inside a container when a glass membrane measuring 100 mm × 100 mm × 1.0 mm is installed to simulate the excitation area A1 in the center of the membrane, and an excitation device with an impedance of 4 Ω is installed and driven with a sine wave signal of 1 V output voltage. In the case where no sound-absorbing element is attached to the inner surface of the container and the membrane, standing waves are generated inside, resulting in a steep peak in the sound pressure level, as shown by the thin solid line.In the case where the sound-absorbing element is attached to the entire inner wall surface of the container, or in the case where the sound-absorbing element is attached to the entire inner wall surface of the container and both surfaces of the glass membrane, the frequency characteristic becomes flat and the average sound pressure level is reduced, as shown by the single-dot dashed line and the thick solid line, respectively.On the other hand, in the case where the sound-absorbing element is attached to both surfaces of the glass membrane and no sound-absorbing element is attached to the inner wall surface of the container, the average sound pressure level is the same as in the state without the sound-absorbing element, as shown by the dashed line; however, the effect of preventing the generation of standing waves can cause the sound pressure level peaks to disappear, effectively reducing the noise generated in the interior 19.

[0116] Therefore, with regard to acoustic performance, it is preferred to attach the sound-absorbing element to the entire surface within the housing element 15, more preferably to the entire surface within the housing element 15 and both surfaces of the excitation area A1 of the glass membrane 11. To combine the costs of materials and installation with the expected acoustic effect, it is preferred to attach the sound-absorbing element to at least one surface of the excitation area A1 of the glass membrane 11, more preferably to both surfaces of the excitation area A1 of the glass membrane 11. (Sealing element)

[0117] As it is in the Fig. As shown in Figure 14, at least a portion of the outer circumferential end surface of the glass membrane 11 can be sealed with a sealing element 87 that does not impede the vibration of the glass membrane 11. The sealing element 87 can be made of a highly elastic rubber, resin, gel, or the like.

[0118] As it is in the Fig. As shown in Figure 15, the sealing element can be applied to at least a portion of the surfaces of the glass plates 73 and 75 facing each other, thus preventing detachment at the interface between the glass plates 73 and 75 and the fluid layer 71 of the glass membrane 11, to an extent that the effect of the invention is not impaired. In this case, the area on which the sealing agent is applied is preferably 20% or less of the area of ​​the fluid layer 71, more preferably 10% or less, and particularly preferably 5% or less, so that the vibration is not disturbed.

[0119] Examples of resins that can be used for the sealing element 87 include acrylic resin, cyanoacrylate resin, epoxy resin, silicone resin, urethane resin, and phenolic resin. Examples of curing methods include single-liquid curing, two-liquid blending, heat curing, ultraviolet curing, and visible light curing. Hot-melt resin can also be used. Examples of materials include ethylene acetate vinyl, polyolefin, polyamide, synthetic rubber, acrylic, and polyurethane.Examples of rubber include natural rubber, synthetic natural rubber, butadiene rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, butyl rubber, nitrile rubber, ethylene propylene rubber, chloroprene rubber, acrylic rubber, chlorosulfonated polyethylene rubber (Hypalon), urethane rubber, silicone rubber, fluororubber, ethylene vinyl acetate rubber, epichlorohydrin rubber, polysulfide rubber (Thiokol), and hydrogenated nitrile rubber. If the thickness t of the sealing element 87 is too small, sufficient strength cannot be ensured. If the thickness t is too large, the sealing element 87 will impede vibration. Consequently, the thickness t of the sealing element 87 is preferably 10 µm or greater and less than or equal to five times the total thickness of the glass membrane. The thickness t of the sealing element 87 is more preferably 50 µm or greater and less than the total thickness of the glass membrane.

[0120] As it is in the Fig. As shown in Figures 16(A) and (B), the glass plates 73 and 75 in the glass membrane 11 are arranged such that one edge surface of the two glass plates is not flush, forming a stepped section 85 with a stair-like shape in a cross-sectional view. A sealing element 87 is formed in the stepped section 85 such that at least the fluid layer 71 is sealed.

[0121] In the step section 85, the sealing element 87 is in close contact with an end surface 73a of the glass plate 73, an end surface 71a of the fluid layer 71, and a main surface 75a of the glass plate 75. This structure seals the fluid layer 71 against the sealing element 87, thus preventing leakage from the fluid layer 71. Furthermore, the connection between the glass plate 73, the fluid layer 71, and the glass plate 75 is strengthened, thereby increasing the strength of the glass membrane.

[0122] Furthermore, in the step section 85, the end surface 73a of the glass plate 73 and the end surface 71a of the fluid layer 71 are perpendicular to the main surface 75a of the glass plate 75. As a result, in a sectional view, the sealing element 87 has an outline that extends along the step section 85 in such a way that it has an L-shape. This structure further strengthens the connection between the glass plate 73, the fluid layer 71, and the glass plate 75, thereby further increasing the strength of the glass membrane.

[0123] The sealing element 87 has a tapered surface 87a. In some cases, the edge of the glass membrane is tapered or undergoes a corresponding machining process. The use of the sealing element 87 with the aforementioned shape can provide the same effect as if the glass membrane were machined in such a manner.

[0124] Furthermore, the glass membrane contains 11, as described in the Fig. As shown in Figures 16 (A) and (B), the end surfaces of the glass plates 73 and 75 are not flush with each other, and the sealing element 87 is formed in the stepped section 85. Consequently, in the glass membrane, the sealing element 87 is located behind the glass plate 75 and is therefore not visible when viewed from the side of the glass plate 75. This improves the design flexibility of the glass membrane.

[0125] The glass membrane can have a planar shape or a curved shape such that it is bent to fit an installation location, as specified in the Fig. Figure 17 shows an alternative shape. Alternatively, the glass membrane can be shaped to have both a planar and a curved section, although this is not shown in any drawing. That is, the glass vibration device G can have a three-dimensional shape that includes a curved section, which is curved such that it has at least a partially concave or convex shape. By having a three-dimensional shape that conforms to an installation location, it can exhibit good aesthetics in that location, thus enhancing its design capabilities.

[0126] Furthermore, the glass membrane, in which the outer edge step section 85 is sealed with the sealing element 87, can be given a curved shape (three-dimensional shape) so that the side of the glass plate 75 is recessed, as shown in the Fig. Figure 18(A) shows that in this case, an outer edge of the glass plate 75 projects outwards beyond the glass plate 73. Alternatively, as shown in the Fig. As shown in Figure 18(B), the glass membrane is given a curved shape, which is an inverted version of the shape shown in the Fig. Figure 18(A) shows that in this case, too, an outer edge of the glass plate 75 projects outwards beyond the glass plate 73.

[0127] In this glass membrane as well, the sealing element 87 is located behind the glass plate 75 and is therefore not visible when viewed from the side of the glass plate 75. As a result, each glass membrane can be given an attractive appearance in its installation location, and its design potential can thus be improved.

[0128] In the case where the vibration device is designed using several glass plates, as is the case with the glass membranes used in the Fig. 10, Fig. 11 to Fig. 12 and Fig. 14, Fig. 15, Fig. 16, Fig. 17 to Fig. As shown in Figure 18, the excitation area in which the excitation devices are installed can be formed using a single glass plate.

[0129] The Fig. Figure 19 is a partial sectional view showing how the excitation device 13 is attached to a glass membrane 11, the excitation area of ​​which is formed by a single glass plate.

[0130] Of the pair of glass plates 73 and 75 of the glass membrane 11, glass plate 75 extends outwards beyond the outer edge of glass plate 73. The excitation device 13 is attached to the outwardly extending section that extends beyond the outer edge of glass plate 73. End sections of glass plate 73 and the fluid layer 71 are provided with a sealing element 87, as described above, thereby sealing the fluid layer 71.

[0131] In this setup, since the excitation device 13 sets the individual glass plate 75 into vibration, the glass membrane 11 can be excited with higher energy efficiency than in a case where a plurality of glass plates are set into vibration simultaneously.

[0132] The invention is not limited to the foregoing embodiments. Combining individual structures of embodiments and processes carried out by a person skilled in the art, modifications and applications based on the disclosure of the description and known techniques are encompassed by the invention and included in the scope of protection.

[0133] Although the interior space 19 described above is defined by the enclosure element, it can be defined using a mounting target element on which the vibration device is installed. For example, a vibration device can be defined as an interior space using a structural element, such as a chassis or body of a motor vehicle, as an enclosure element, or using a groove or recess formed in such a structural element.

[0134] As described above, the description reveals the following items: (1) Vibration device comprising: a glass membrane; an excitation device that is attached to the glass membrane and sets the glass membrane into vibration; an enclosure element that defines an interior space by enclosing a section, including a mounting position for the excitation device, of the glass membrane, wherein an end section of the glass membrane is exposed through an opening of the interior space to the outside of the interior space; and a shielding element for sound insulation between the opening and the glass membrane, wherein the shielding element divides the glass membrane into an excitation area located inside the interior and a vibration area located outside the interior.

[0135] In this vibration device, the excitation area of ​​the glass membrane, equipped with the excitation device, is located within the interior space defined by the housing element and separated by the shielding element. When sound radiation is emitted by vibration of the excitation device from the vibration area of ​​the glass membrane located outside the interior space (i.e., the end section exposed through the opening of the interior space to the outside of the interior space), a uniform sound pressure distribution is provided. Furthermore, since no sound escapes the interior space, any reduction in directivity can be suppressed.

[0136] (2) Vibration device according to item (1), wherein, where a direction in which the glass membrane projects outwards from inside the interior is called a first direction, and a direction perpendicular to the first direction in a plane of the plate is called a second direction, a maximum width of the glass membrane in the second direction is greater than or identical with a maximum width in the first direction.

[0137] According to this vibration device, the distance from the excitation device, which is located in the excitation area of ​​the glass membrane, is not too large at any point in the entire surface of the vibration area, and thus a vibration generated by the excitation device propagates to the vibration area while being kept sufficiently strong.

[0138] (3) Vibration device according to article (1) or (2), wherein a sound-absorbing element having a sound absorption ratio of 0.25 or greater when impacted perpendicularly is attached to all or part of the inner surfaces of the enclosure element.

[0139] According to this vibration device, the frequency characteristic is flattened and the average sound pressure level is reduced, thereby improving the sound damping effect.

[0140] (4) Vibration device according to any of the articles (1) to (3), wherein a sound-absorbing element having a sound absorption ratio of 0.25 or greater when striking perpendicularly is attached to the whole or part of at least one surface of the excitation area of ​​the glass membrane.

[0141] According to this vibration device, the sound pressure level in the interior can be reduced because the generation of a standing wave is suppressed.

[0142] (5) Vibration device according to any of the items (1) to (4), wherein the ratio Ss / Sv of an area Ss of the excitation area of ​​the glass membrane to an area Sv of the vibration area of ​​the glass membrane is 0.01 or greater and 1.0 or less.

[0143] According to this vibration device, efficient excitation control can be achieved without reducing the efficiency of generating sound pressure through sound radiation emitted from the vibration area A2 according to a vibration generated by the excitation device.

[0144] (6) Vibration device according to one of the items (1) to (5), wherein the total area of ​​the glass membrane is 0.01 m² 2 or larger.

[0145] According to this vibration device, the effect of forming a uniform sound pressure distribution and the effect of suppressing a reduction in directivity can be more easily obtained by separating the excitation area and the vibration area from each other.

[0146] (7) Vibration device according to any of the items (1) to (6) comprising a support element which enables the housing element to support the glass membrane.

[0147] In this vibration device, the glass membrane is supported by the housing element using the support element.

[0148] (8) Vibration device according to item (7), wherein the support element supports the glass membrane in such a way that the glass membrane is movable relative to the housing element.

[0149] According to this vibration device, the areas of the excitation region and the vibration region can be varied by causing a relative movement of the glass membrane.

[0150] (9) Vibration device according to one of the items (1) to (8), wherein excitation devices are arranged at several positions of the glass membrane.

[0151] According to this vibration device, the uniformity of the distribution of a vibration in the vibration area can be increased by applying a vibration to the glass membrane from several excitation devices.

[0152] (10) Vibration device according to any of the items (1) to (9), wherein the excitation device is arranged only on one surface of the glass membrane.

[0153] According to this vibration device, the excitation devices can be efficiently arranged in the case where an excitation device arrangement space is limited in the thickness direction of the glass membrane.

[0154] (11) Vibration device according to item (9) wherein excitation devices are arranged on both surfaces of the glass membrane.

[0155] According to this vibration device, the excitation devices can be efficiently arranged in the case where the glass membrane has a limited area.

[0156] (12) Vibration device according to any of the articles (1) to (11), wherein the shielding element comprises a storage module at 25 °C at a frequency of 1 Hz of 1.0 × 10 2 up to 1.0 × 10 10 Pa exhibits.

[0157] This vibration device can prevent sound from escaping while suppressing the vibration of the glass membrane.

[0158] (13) Vibration device according to any of the items (1) to (12), wherein the glass membrane has a flat plate shape.

[0159] According to this vibration device, processing of the glass membrane can be carried out easily, thus reducing costs.

[0160] (14) Vibration device according to any of the articles (1) to (12), wherein at least part of the glass membrane has a concave or convex curved surface.

[0161] According to this vibration device, the shape of the glass membrane can be freely adjusted according to the position and purpose of the installation of the vibration device.

[0162] (15) Vibration device according to any of the articles (1) to (14), wherein the glass membrane comprises several glass plates and a fluid layer containing a liquid is provided between at least one pair of adjacent glass plates.

[0163] According to this vibration device, if a resonance has occurred in one glass plate, a resonance in the other glass plate can be prevented. Furthermore, resonant vibrations of the glass plates can be dampened.

[0164] (16) Vibration device according to item (15), wherein the excitation area of ​​the glass membrane is formed by a single glass plate.

[0165] According to this vibration device, the glass membrane can be excited with high energy efficiency.

[0166] (17) Vibration device according to one of the articles (1) to (16), wherein the glass membrane has a loss coefficient at 25 °C of 1 × 10 -3 or larger and a longitudinal wave sound velocity in one thickness direction of the glass membrane of 4.0 × 10 3 m / s or greater.

[0167] According to this vibration device, the damping level of the vibration can be increased by increasing the loss coefficient, and the reproducibility of a sound in a high-frequency range can be increased by increasing the longitudinal wave sound speed.

[0168] Although the invention has been described in detail above with reference to the specific embodiments, it is clear to a person skilled in the art that various changes and modifications are possible without altering the essence and scope of the invention. The present application is based on Japanese patent application No. 2019-177814, filed on September 27, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE MARKS 11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E glass membrane 11a Through hole 13 Pathogen device 15, 15A, 15B Enclosure element 15a Through hole 17 Shielding element 19 Interior 21 Opening 23, 23A, 23B Support element 71 Fluid layer 73, 75, 77 glass plate 100 vibration device A1 Excitation area A2 Vibration range

Claims

[1] Vibration device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600), comprising: a glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F); an excitation device (13) attached to the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F) which sets the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F) into vibration; an enclosure element (15, 15A, 15B, 15C, 15D, 15E) that defines an interior space (19) by enclosing a section, including a mounting position of the excitation device (13), of the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F), wherein an end section of the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F) is exposed through an opening (21) of the interior space (19) to the outside of the interior space (19); and a shielding element (17) for sound shielding between the opening (21) and the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F), wherein the shielding element (17) divides the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F) into an excitation area (A1) located inside the interior (19) and a vibration area (A2) located outside the interior (19). [2] Vibration device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to claim 1, wherein, where a direction in which the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F) projects outwards from inside the interior (19) is designated as a first direction (Ax1), and a direction perpendicular to the first direction (Ax1) in a plane of the plate is designated as a second direction (Ax2), a maximum width of the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F) in the second direction (Ax2) is greater than or identical with a maximum width in the first direction (Ax1). [3] Vibration device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a sound-absorbing element having a sound absorption ratio of 0.25 or greater on perpendicular impact is attached to all or part of the inner surfaces of the housing element (15, 15A, 15B, 15C, 15D, 15E). [4] Vibration device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a sound-absorbing element having a sound absorption ratio of 0.25 or greater when impacted perpendicularly is attached to the whole or part of at least one surface of the excitation area (A1) of the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F). [5] Vibration device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the ratio Ss / Sv of an area Ss of the excitation area (A1) of the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F) to an area Sv of the vibration area (A2) of the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F) is 0.01 or greater and 1.0 or less. [6] Vibration device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a total area of ​​the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F) is 0.01 m² 2 or larger. [7] Vibration device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising a support element (23, 23A, 23B) which enables the housing element (15, 15A, 15B, 15C, 15D, 15E) to support the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F). [8] Vibration device (600) according to claim 7, wherein the support element (23B) supports the glass membrane (11F) such that the glass membrane (11F) is movable relative to the housing element (15E). [9] Vibration device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein excitation devices (13) are arranged at several positions of the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F). [10] Vibration device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the excitation device (13) is arranged only on one surface of the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F). [11] Vibration device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to claim 9, wherein excitation devices (13) are arranged on both surfaces of the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F). [12] Vibration device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the shielding element (17) has a storage module at 25 °C at a frequency of 1 Hz of 1.0 × 10 2 up to 1.0 × 10 10 Pa exhibits. [13] Vibration device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F) has a flat plate shape. [14] Vibration device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein at least a part of the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F) has a concave or convex curved surface. [15] Vibration device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F) comprises several glass plates (73, 75, 77) and a fluid layer (71) containing a liquid is provided between at least one pair of glass plates (73, 75) adjacent to each other. [16] Vibration device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to claim 15, wherein the excitation area (A1) of the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F) is formed by a single glass plate (75). [17] Vibration device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F) has a loss coefficient at 25 °C of 1 × 10 -3 or larger and a longitudinal wave sound velocity in one thickness direction of the glass membrane (11, 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F) of 4.0 × 10 3 m / s or greater.

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