Modular dynamic acoustic ceiling panel

Abstract

A modular dynamic acoustic system for use in connection with an indoor environment includes a movable panel array, a support structure, and a plurality of suspension members. The movable panel array includes a plurality of panel members, each including a body defining at least one edge, at least one hinge positioned along the at least one edge, and at least one mounting structure. The panel members are operably coupled to at least one adjacent panel member via the at least one hinge. Each of the plurality of suspension members is operably coupled to the support structure and at least one mounting structure of one of the plurality of panel members to secure the movable panel array to the support structure. Each of the suspension members is movable to modify the configuration of the movable panel array.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to acoustical ceiling panels for selectively adjusting the acoustic and aesthetic characteristics of an environment. [Background technology]

[0002] Indoor or interior environments are used to accommodate various numbers of occupants. In some environments, modern acoustic design elements can be used to modify the acoustic characteristics of the environment, creating an appealing, more aesthetically pleasing environment that welcomes and invites occupants. Some of these systems incorporate movement and / or adjustment features to selectively adjust the acoustic characteristics of the environment. Such systems typically require a customized design for a specific environment. Typically, these systems combine multiple different acoustic elements, such as panels, to create a larger overall acoustic array. More specifically, manufacturers may incorporate end-user requirements for each unique project and build an optimized solution for each individual project. In short, upon determining the requirements for a specific project, manufacturers design an appropriate chassis, which is often a time-consuming and inefficient process because they cannot rely on previous designs for guidance and / or standards. Furthermore, installing and configuring these systems in a desired environment often requires significant time and resources. In addition, due to the various shapes and / or configurations of the individual panel members, such systems typically have high associated storage costs and may require many different mounting and / or operating structures, further increasing manufacturing and storage costs. Finally, while these existing systems may provide acoustic improvements to the environment, they may not provide the desired aesthetically pleasing environment that is visually appealing to the occupants. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a modular dynamic acoustic system for use in connection with an indoor environment includes a movable panel array, a support structure, and a plurality of suspension members. The movable panel array includes a plurality of panel members, each panel member including a body defining at least one edge, at least one hinge positioned along the at least one edge, and at least one mounting structure. The panel members are operably coupled to at least one adjacent panel member via the at least one hinge. Each of the plurality of suspension members is operably coupled to the support structure and at least one mounting structure of one of the plurality of panel members to secure the movable panel array to the support structure. Each of the suspension members is movable to modify the configuration of the movable panel array.

[0004] In some examples, the at least one hinge of each of the plurality of panel members is integrally formed with the body and includes at least one barrel portion and at least one gap portion. The at least one barrel portion of a first panel member is adapted to be disposed in the at least one gap portion of an adjacent panel member when operably coupled together. In some examples, the at least one mounting structure includes an opening formed in a portion of the body of the panel member.

[0005] In some of these examples, each of the plurality of panel members includes a hinge mounting portion positioned along at least one edge for securing the hinge to the panel member. The at least one mounting structure can include an opening formed between adjacent panel members. The opening can be adapted to receive a ball member including an eyebolt coupled thereto.

[0006] In some examples, the modular dynamic acoustic system may further include an actuation mechanism operably coupled to the plurality of suspension members. The actuation mechanism is adapted to selectively move each of the plurality of suspension members to modify the configuration of the movable panel array. In some of these examples, the actuation mechanism includes a cam member having multiple lobes that engages with the plurality of suspension members to adjust the lengths of the plurality of suspension members and move the panel array in a predetermined manner. In other examples, the actuation mechanism includes a controller operably coupled to each of the plurality of suspension members.

[0007] In some examples, the bodies of the plurality of panel members are constructed from a sound absorbing material. Further, in some examples, each of the plurality of panel members has a triangular shape.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a movable panel array for a modular dynamic acoustic system includes a plurality of panel members, each of which includes a body defining at least one edge, at least one hinge positioned along the at least one edge, and at least one mounting structure, and each of which is operably coupled to at least one adjacent panel member via the at least one hinge. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] The above approaches are met, at least in part, through the provision of dynamic acoustical ceiling panels as described in the detailed description below, particularly when examined in conjunction with the drawings.

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary indoor environment having an exemplary modular dynamic sound system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2A] 2 illustrates a perspective view of the exemplary modular dynamic acoustic system of FIG. 1 coupled to a display structure in a first configuration, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 2B]2B shows a perspective view of the exemplary modular dynamic acoustic system of FIGS. 1 and 2A coupled to a display structure in a second configuration, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 3] 1-2B illustrate exemplary support structures for use with the exemplary modular dynamic acoustic system of FIGS. 1-2B, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 1-3 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5 illustrates a rear perspective view of the exemplary modular dynamic acoustic system of FIGS. 1-4 with an actuation mechanism according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] 1-5B show enlarged rear perspective views of a support structure for the exemplary modular dynamic acoustic system of FIGS. 1-5A, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 6] 1-5B, in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 illustrates a front view of the exemplary modular dynamic acoustic system of FIGS. 1-6, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8A] FIG. 8 illustrates a right cross-sectional elevation view of the exemplary modular dynamic acoustic system of FIGS. 1-7 taken along line WW, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8B] 1-8B shows an enlarged right elevation view of the exemplary modular dynamic acoustic system of FIGS. 1-8A, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 9] 1-8C show perspective views of panel members of the exemplary modular dynamic acoustic system of FIGS. 1-8B, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 10 illustrates an enlarged perspective view of multiple panel members of the exemplary modular dynamic acoustic system of FIGS. 1-9 forming a movable panel array, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 11]1-10, in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] 1 shows a perspective view of a second exemplary movable panel array including a second exemplary panel member for use with an exemplary modular dynamic acoustic system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] 13 shows an enlarged perspective view of the second exemplary movable panel array of FIG. 12, in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] 10 illustrates a top view of a second exemplary panel member of a second exemplary movable panel array in an unformed configuration, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] 15 illustrates a plan view of the second exemplary panel member of FIG. 14 in a formed configuration, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 16A] FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of the second exemplary panel member of FIGS. 14 and 15 in a formed configuration, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 16B] 14-16B show enlarged perspective views of the second exemplary panel member of FIGS. 14-16A in a formed configuration, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 17A] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of a third exemplary movable panel array including an alternative support structure according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 17B] 17B shows an enlarged perspective view of an alternative support structure of FIG. 17A according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0011] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions and / or relative positioning of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help enhance understanding of various embodiments of the present invention. Also, common but well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in commercially viable embodiments are often not depicted so as to not obscure such various embodiments. Furthermore, while certain actions and / or steps may be described or depicted in a particular order of occurrence, those skilled in the art will understand that no specificity with respect to such order is actually required. It will also be understood that the terms and phrases used herein have the ordinary technical meanings that would be given to such terms and phrases by those skilled in the art, unless a different specific meaning is otherwise set forth herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Generally speaking, a modular dynamic acoustical ceiling system includes a number of panelized elements that can be operatively and movably coupled to one another to form a movable array with acoustic and aesthetic modification capabilities. The movable array is generally suspended from an overhead support structure (e.g., a ceiling structure) via multiple suspension members that serve the additional purpose of being adjustable to different lengths. Relative adjustment between the suspension members causes the movable array to move or change its shape, which in turn changes the acoustic characteristics of the environment. For example, the movable array can be moved to increase the amount of sound absorbed, helping to reduce the overall volume of the environment. Additionally, such a system can help enhance the overall visual appeal of the environment.

[0013] Referring now to the drawings, a dynamic acoustic and aesthetic system 100 is provided for use in connection with an indoor environment 101 having a ceiling member 102 (FIG. 1) or a similar overhead overhanging display structure 103 (FIGS. 2A-8B). It should be noted that the overhanging display structure 103 provided in FIGS. 2A-8B includes similar components as system 100 used with ceiling member 102, with overhanging display structure 103 shown for the purpose of providing a clearer visualization of the additional components in system 100. It will further be understood that system 100 can also be used in outdoor environments with appropriate mounting structures.

[0014] Generally, system 100 includes a support structure 110, a number of suspension members 130, and a movable panel array 150. Support structure 110 is operatively coupled to a ceiling 102 (or an overhanging display structure 103) and is capable of supporting the weight of movable panel array 150. In some examples, support structure 110 may be in the form of a strut or beam system that couples with and / or is part of an overhead structural beam system (e.g., an I-beam system, not shown). One such example of support structure 110 is a metal frame member provided by Unistrut.

[0015] 3, the support structure 110 is in the form of an elongated member 112 having a base 113 and any number of sidewalls 114 that define an interior channel 115. Additionally, the sidewalls 114 may include curved end portions 114a that define a track 116. In some examples, the base 113 of the elongated member 112 may be secured to the ceiling 102 (or the overhanging display structure 103) via any number of suitable techniques, such as, for example, by inserting bolts into openings 113a formed on the base 113. In some examples, the elongated member 112 may be attached via other suitable structure-mounting elements. In the example shown in FIGS. 2A-8B, the ends of the elongated member 113 may be secured to the overhanging display structure 103 via any number of techniques, such as, for example, brackets, flanges, posts, etc. It will be understood that any number of support structures 110 may be used as needed, depending on the size and / or configuration of the movable panel array 150.

[0016] 2A-5A and 8B, any number of pulleys 118 are provided that are operably coupled to the support structure 110. More specifically, the pulleys 118 include mounting members 119 that are insertable into the interior channel 115 of the elongated member 112. In some examples, the mounting members 119 may be in the form of mounting wheels or similar components that rest on and / or engage the curved end portions 114a of the sidewalls 114 and may be at least partially disposed within the tracks 116 to limit relative movement. Other examples of suitable mounting members 119 are possible. The pulleys 118 may further include a main wheel 120 that is coupled to and suspended below the mounting members 119.

[0017] The suspension member 130 may be in the form of an elongated rope having a first end 130a, a second end 130b, and a length 130c extending therebetween. In some examples, the suspension member may be constructed from a metal, polymer, polymeric, and / or elastomeric material, or any suitable combination of these and / or other similar materials. Generally, the first end 130a of the suspension member 130 is operably coupled to the movable panel array 150, a portion of the length 130c engages with the support structure 110 (e.g., the main wheel 120 of the pulley 118), and the second end 130b is positioned below the pulley 118 and may be engaged to adjust its length.

[0018] In some examples, the suspension member 130 may be routed through the internal channel 115 of the elongated member 112 to a mounting portion 132 positioned at a central location within the environment 101. In other examples, as shown in FIGS. 4-8B , the suspension member 130 may not be routed through the internal channel 115; rather, the length 130c of the suspension member may be disposed below the support structure until the second end 130b engages the mounting portion 132. With particular reference to FIGS. 5A-6 , the mounting portion 132 includes a wall 133 having any number of openings 133a through which the second end 130b of the suspension member 130 is inserted and further includes a fastening feature 134. In some examples, the second end 130b of the suspension member 130 may form a loop 131 that is fastened via a band 131a (e.g., a crimped bracket member). Other examples are possible.

[0019] In some approaches, the locking feature 134 is in the form of a collar insertable into an opening 133a in the wall 133. The collar 134 extends longitudinally and defines an inner opening 134a that also extends longitudinally. Additionally, the collar 134 includes an opening 134b extending laterally from its outer surface through opening 134a. A set screw 136 is insertable into opening 134b.

[0020] As previously described, second end 130b of suspension member 130 is inserted through opening 133a in wall 133 and also through opening 134a in collar 134. A user can selectively engage suspension member 130 to adjust its length extending below pulley 118. Once the desired length 130c of suspension member extending below pulley 118 is achieved, set screw 136 is inserted into opening 134b until it abuts suspension member 130 and holds it in the desired position. When set screw 136 is coupled with collar 134, set screw 136 prevents suspension member 130 from moving through opening 133a in wall 133.

[0021] 1-11 , movable panel array 150 includes a number of panel members 152. In the illustrated example, panel members 152 are generally triangular in shape, although in other examples, panel members 152 may take on any desired shape or configuration. Each of panel members 152 includes a body 154 defining any number of edges 156 (e.g., three), any number of corners 156 a (e.g., three), and a plurality of mounting holes 158, and at least one hinge member 160.

[0022] Panel member 152 may be constructed or formed from molded and / or stamped sheets of metal, polymeric material, glass, or any combination of these and / or other suitable materials. Panel member 152 may have any desired dimensions, such as, for example, an equilateral triangle with sides of approximately 30 inches. Other examples are possible. In some forms, sound absorbing and / or sound insulating material 155 ( FIG. 9 ) may be bonded and / or adhered to all or a portion of body 154. In some cases, panel member 152 may be perforated to have openings in the surface to further allow sound waves to reach sound absorbing and / or sound insulating material 155. In some of these examples, sound absorbing and / or sound insulating material 155 may be in the form of a foam member, a polymer member, a synthetic member, a recycled denim product, etc. Other examples are possible. In still other examples, body 154 itself may be constructed from sound absorbing and / or sound insulating material.

[0023] The movable panel array 150 is modular because any number of desired panel members 152 can be operatively coupled to one another. In some examples, the panel members 152 may all be identical or substantially identical, thus eliminating the need for a cataloging and / or inventory system for different configurations, which may result in reduced manufacturing costs, increased efficiency, and / or reduced storage costs.

[0024] In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting holes 158 are positioned near the edge 156 of the body 154. A hinge member 160 is used to rotatably couple adjacent panel members 152. In the illustrated example, the hinge member 160 is in the form of an elongated bracket having a central hinge portion 162 and mounting wings 164. Each of the mounting wings 164 includes a number of holes 166 that are aligned with the mounting holes 158 formed on the body 154 of the panel member 152. Thus, the hinge member 160 can be coupled to the first and second panel members 152 by securing one of the mounting wings 164 to the mounting hole 158 with a screw, fastener, or the like. Other examples are possible.

[0025] Securing the hinge members 160 to the panel members 152 rotatably couples adjacent panel members 152 to one another. Thus, adjacent panel members 152 can rotate relative to one another about the hinge portions 162 of the hinge members 160. As shown, any number of panel members 152 can be coupled to one another via the hinge members 160 to form a panel array 150 having any desired size, shape, and / or configuration. Thus, the movable panel array 150 is modular and can be quickly modified as needed.

[0026] 10 and 11 , when adjacent panel members 152 are coupled to one another, the corners 156a of the adjacent panel members 152 define a clearance or opening 168. Any number of mounting structures 170 can be coupled to the first ends 130a of the suspension members 130 to couple the movable panel array 150 to the suspension members 130 at any desired location in the clearance 168. In the illustrated example, the mounting structure 170 is in the form of a ball 172 operably coupled to an eyehook 174. In some examples, the ball 172 may include a threaded opening that receives a threaded portion of the eyehook 174 to secure the ball with the eyehook 174. Other examples are possible. The ball 172 is sized to be larger than the dimensions of the opening 168, and the eyehook 174 is sized so that it can be inserted through the clearance 168; thus, by positioning the ball 172 below the clearance 168, a rotatable ball-and-socket joint is formed with the panel member 152, which allows the panel member 152 to rotate relative to the mounting structure 170.

[0027] Similar to the second end 130b of the suspension member 130, the first end 130a of the suspension member 130 may include a loop that is used to secure the first end 130a to the eyehook 174. More specifically, in some examples, a shackle, such as a carabiner (not shown), may be used to couple the mounting structure 170 to the first end 130a of the suspension member 130. Other examples of suitable coupling mechanisms are possible.

[0028] Configured in this manner, the panel array 150 is supported by the suspension members 130 via the mounting structures 170 at one or more locations at any desired clearance 168. It is understood that the mounting structures 170 need not be disposed at one or more locations at all clearances 168 to properly suspend the movable panel array 150. The length 130c of the suspension members 130 is supported by the pulleys 118 (supported by the support structure 110). The relative positioning and / or length of the suspension members 130 extending below the pulleys 118 is maintained via set screws 136. When this length is changed or modified, such movement raises or lowers the mounting structures 170 relative to the pulleys 118, which in turn causes relative movement of the movable panel array 150 due to the hinged connections between adjacent panel members 152. As a result, the movable panel array 150 is movable in a tessellated manner that changes the configuration and / or design of the movable panel array 150.

[0029] A user can manually adjust the lengths of the multiple suspension members 130 to create different desired patterns. In some examples, such modifications can be accomplished by hand, while in other examples, the second ends 130b of the suspension members 130 can be coupled to a camshaft system (not shown) having lobes with varying profiles via any number of suitable techniques. The camshaft system can rotate according to a predetermined pattern and routinely move the movable panel array 150. Such a system can be manually engaged and / or driven by a motor or other drive mechanism. Additionally, in some examples, the system can include a clutch for selectively releasing particular suspension members 130 as needed. Furthermore, in some examples, the system 100 can incorporate a controller (not shown) operably coupled to individual actuators used to adjust the lengths of the suspension members 130 individually and / or as a group of suspension members 130. Other examples are possible.

[0030] Thus, the environment 101, and more specifically, the area or footprint positioned under or near the movable panel array 150, can have desired sound-insulating properties. In some examples, the movable panel array 150 can form a dome for use in quiet areas and can have reflective properties that reflect more sound and increase noise levels as needed. Other examples are possible.

[0031] A second embodiment of a movable panel array 250 for dynamic acoustic and aesthetic system 100 is shown in Figures 12-16B. It will be understood that movable panel array 250 shown in Figures 12-16B can include similar features as movable panel array 150, and therefore, the elements shown in Figures 12-16B are designated by similar reference numerals shown in the embodiment shown in Figures 1-11 plus 100. Accordingly, these features will not be described in detail. Furthermore, it will be understood that any of the elements described with respect to movable panel array 150 can be incorporated into movable panel array 250.

[0032] In this embodiment, panel member 252 includes an integrated hinge member 260 and mounting structure 270, thereby eliminating the need for separate hinge and mounting components. More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 14-16B , panel member 252 includes multiple barrel portions 262 and multiple gap portions 264 positioned therebetween. Additionally, panel member 252 includes a foldable portion 272 positioned at edge 256 of body 254, which includes outwardly extending finger portions 274 with mounting holes 276 extending therethrough. As previously mentioned, panel member 252 may be constructed from a molded and / or stamped metal material, such as a polymeric material, glass, or any combination of these and / or other suitable materials, and foldable portion 272 may then be bent upward (see FIGS. 13 and 15-16B ). When the foldable portions 272 are bent, an edge 256 of each panel member 252 is defined with a barrel portion 262 extending outward therefrom. The finger portions 274 of opposing edges 256 abut one another and the mounting holes 276 align.

[0033] To join adjacent panel members 252 together, the edges 256 of the two panel members 252 are positioned adjacent to one another. With such positioning, the barrel portion 262 of the first panel member 252 is inserted into and aligned with the gap portion 264 of the second panel member 252. A hinge pin or similar structure can then be inserted into the barrel portion 262 to secure and hold the panel members 252 together.

[0034] After forming the movable panel array 250 using the desired number of panel members 252, the user can couple the first ends of the suspension members to the mounting holes 276 at any one or more desired locations and move the movable panel array 250 using any one or more of the techniques described above.

[0035] An alternative embodiment of a support structure 310 for dynamic acoustic and aesthetic system 100 is shown in Figures 17A and 17B. It will be understood that support structure 310 shown in Figures 17A and 17B can include similar features to support structure 110, and therefore, the elements shown in Figures 17A and 17B are designated by similar reference numerals shown in the embodiment shown in Figures 1-16B plus 200. Accordingly, these features will not be described in detail. Furthermore, it should be understood that any of the remaining elements described with respect to system 100 can be incorporated into the embodiment shown in Figures 17A and 17B.

[0036] In this embodiment, support structure 310 is in the form of a tee grid system in which elongated member 312 has a base 312 and a platform 314 extending therefrom. Platform 314 is in the form of a flange to which pulley 318 connects. More specifically, pulley 318 includes a mounting member 319 in the form of a swivel clip positioned to wrap around platform 314 to allow relative sliding movement between pulley 318 and platform 314. Main wheel 320 is rotatable relative to mounting member 319.

[0037] When configured in this manner, system 100 not only enhances the visual appeal of environment 101, but also provides enhanced sound-modifying characteristics while allowing the user to adjust and change the appearance of the environment as desired with minimal effort. Such a system can be adjusted, as needed, to allow for a tunable amount of reverb in certain situations (e.g., when the environment is sparsely populated) and more sound absorption in other situations (e.g., when the environment is heavily populated). Furthermore, the system can be adjusted, as needed, to provide a more open environment (e.g., by adjusting the assembly to be flatter) or a more private, intimate environment (e.g., by adjusting the assembly to be more dome-shaped). Such a system 100 can be used in any number of desired environments, such as, for example, restaurants, lobbies or waiting areas, airports, conference areas, foyers, hotels, etc. System 100 is easy to configure, install, and operate and can have additional capabilities and features as needed.

[0038] For example, system 100 can incorporate any number of sensors and / or sound-generating devices (not shown) operably coupled with a controller (not shown). The sound-generating devices can be electro-acoustic transducers that generate sound to provide adjustable sound masking and / or sound reinforcement depending on the desired application. In some examples, the sound-generating devices can be loudspeakers, collections of loudspeakers, distributed mode loudspeakers, and / or focused loudspeaker arrays.

[0039] System 100 may further include a programmable controller, such as a digital signal processor (DSP), that controls the movement of suspension member 130 and / or the sound-generating device. The DSP may include a communications link that communicates with the controller in a manner described below. In these examples, the controller may be in signal communication with at least one sensor located in environment 101 at any desired location. Any number of additional sensors capable of sensing any number of characteristics of environment 101 and / or system 100 may be used and positioned as desired.

[0040] The controller can be disposed in multiple locations relative to environment 101. By way of example, the controller can be located on a wall or in a separate location. In some examples, the controller can be integral with movable panel array 150, e.g., the controller can be included in an enclosure attached to one of panel members 152, or can be included in a separate enclosure that is positioned adjacent or proximate to system 100, or can be located remotely. In some embodiments, the controller can partially or completely control the functions of system 100 via wired and / or wired signal communications as known and / or commonly used in the art.

[0041] The sensors may be any type of sensor adapted to measure (directly or indirectly) one or more characteristics of the environment 101 and / or the movable panel array 150. The sensors may measure any one or more of any environmental characteristics, such as, for example, decibel levels, vibration levels, number of people in the environment, light levels, movement (e.g., via pyroelectric (“passive”) infrared sensors), temperature, humidity, airflow, air particles, gases such as carbon monoxide, air pressure, and / or electromagnetic disturbances, or any number of additional characteristics indicative thereof. Additionally, sound (sonar) waves, radio waves, light waves (LIDAR), and computer vision may also be used to map and / or identify physical objects and / or people within the environment 101.

[0042] As an example, the sensor may be a microphone or an array of microphones, although other examples are possible. If a microphone is implemented, the system may be used to identify individual people using voice recognition algorithms that identify unique voices. Such a system may be used in combination with speakers to create a consistent volume throughout the environment 101 and / or enhance the sound of human speech. Additionally, such a system may function as an intercom system, be able to respond to voice commands, and / or detect equipment malfunctions.

[0043] The sensors generate signals that are transmitted to inputs of a controller. In some examples, the controller can be set up, configured, and / or programmed with logic, commands, and / or executable program instructions to provide appropriate correction factors to estimate or calculate values ​​of measured properties of the environment 101.

[0044] One or more signals from the controller may be used to control the operation of system 100 such that variations in environmental characteristics that affect decibel levels are taken into account by the controller. Adjustments may be made by the controller in real time or near real time (i.e., with minimal delay between when a sensor senses a value and when a change is made to system 100), or corrections may be made with some delay. Additionally, historical data may be used as a basis for adjusting system 100. The controller may be connected to the sensors and DSP and / or any other components in system 100 via any type of signal communication technique known in the art.

[0045] The controller may also be a DSP including software adapted to control its operation, any number of hardware elements (e.g., non-transitory memory modules and / or processors, etc.), any number of inputs, any number of outputs, and any number of connections. The software may be loaded directly into the controller's non-transitory memory modules in the form of a non-transitory computer-readable medium, or alternatively, may be located remotely from the controller and communicate with the controller via any number of control techniques. The software includes logic, commands, and / or executable program instructions, which may include logic and / or commands for controlling the moveable panel array 150 according to a desired operating program. The software may or may not include an operating system, operating environment, application environment, and / or user interface.

[0046] In some examples, routines may be implemented in the controller that may or may not depend on sensed measurements. For example, the programs may be time-based, such that active control elements of the movable panel array are activated and / or actuated at specific times (e.g., during busy periods in environment 101).

[0047] Unless otherwise specified, any feature or characteristic of any one of the embodiments of the smart dynamic acoustic ceiling panel disclosed herein may be combined with a feature or characteristic of any other embodiment of the smart dynamic acoustic ceiling panel.

[0048] Those skilled in the art will recognize that a wide variety of modifications, changes and combinations can be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the scope of the present invention, and such modifications, changes and combinations are deemed to be within the scope of the inventive concept.

[0049] The final claims of this patent application are not intended to be construed under 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) unless they are expressly recited in conventional means-plus-function language, such as when "means for" or "step for" language is expressly recited in the claim. The systems and methods described herein are directed to improving computer functionality, enhancing the capabilities of conventional computers.

Claims

1. 1. A modular dynamic sound system for use in connection with an indoor and / or outdoor environment, said modular dynamic sound system comprising: a movable panel array including a plurality of panel members, each of the plurality of panel members including: a) a body defining at least one edge; b) at least one hinge positioned along the at least one edge; and c) at least one mounting structure, each of the plurality of panel members operably coupled to at least one adjacent panel member via the at least one hinge; a support structure; a plurality of suspension members, each of the plurality of suspension members operatively coupled to the support structure and at least one mounting structure of one of the plurality of panel members to secure the movable panel array to the support structure, each of the suspension members being movable to modify a configuration of the movable panel array; The at least one mounting structure of each of the plurality of panel members includes an opening formed between adjacent panel members.

2. 2. The modular dynamic acoustic system of claim 1, wherein the at least one hinge of each of the plurality of panel members is integrally formed with the body and includes at least one barrel portion and at least one gap portion, the at least one barrel portion of a first panel member adapted to be disposed in the at least one gap portion of the adjacent panel member when the panel members are operably coupled together.

3. The modular dynamic acoustic system of claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of panel members includes a hinge mounting portion positioned along the at least one edge for securing the hinge to the panel member.

4. 4. The modular dynamic sound system of claim 3, wherein the opening in the at least one mounting structure is adapted to receive a ball member that includes an eyebolt coupled thereto.

5. 5. The modular dynamic acoustic system of claim 1, further comprising an actuation mechanism operatively coupled to the plurality of suspension members, the actuation mechanism adapted to selectively move each of the plurality of suspension members to modify the configuration of the movable panel array.

6. 6. The modular dynamic acoustic system of claim 5, wherein the actuation mechanism comprises a cam member having multiple lobes that engages with the plurality of suspension members to adjust the length of the plurality of suspension members, thereby moving the movable panel array in a predetermined manner.

7. The modular dynamic acoustic system of claim 5 , wherein the actuation mechanism comprises a controller operatively coupled to each of the plurality of suspension members.

8. 8. A modular dynamic acoustic system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the bodies of the plurality of panel members are constructed from a sound absorbing material.

9. 9. The modular dynamic acoustic system of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of panel members has a triangular shape.

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