Improvements in or relating to audio transducers

Abstract

To provide an audio transducer diaphragm.SOLUTION: An audio transducer diaphragm includes: a diaphragm body A208 having a core material and a pair of facing major surfaces; a normal stress reinforcement material A206 / A207 coupled to the diaphragm body and coupled onto or near the pair of facing major surfaces for resisting compression-tension stresses received on or near the body during operation; and at least one inner reinforcement member A209 which is different from the core material, embedded within the body, oriented at an angle relative to the pair of facing major surfaces for resisting shear deformation received by the body during operation. The inner reinforcement member is extended adjacent to the normal stress reinforcement material and the pair of facing major surfaces.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure A2g

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to audio transducer technology such as speakers and microphones, including improvements in or relating to audio transducer diaphragm structures and assemblies thereof, audio transducer mounting systems, audio transducer diaphragm suspension systems, and / or personal audio devices incorporating the same. [Background technology]

[0002] A speaker driver is a type of audio transducer that produces sound by vibrating a diaphragm using an actuation mechanism, which may be electromagnetic, electrostatic, piezoelectric, or any other suitable moving assembly known in the art. The driver is generally encased in a housing. In conventional drivers, the diaphragm is a flexible membrane component connected to a rigid housing. Thus, a speaker driver forms a resonant system in which the diaphragm is susceptible to undesirable mechanical resonance (also known as diaphragm breakup) at certain frequencies during operation, which affects the performance of the driver.

[0003] An example of a conventional speaker driver is shown in Figures J1d and J1. The driver includes a diaphragm assembly mounted to a transducer base structure by a diaphragm suspension system. The transducer base structure includes a basket J113, a magnet J116, a top pole piece J118, and a T-yoke J117. The diaphragm assembly includes a thin-film diaphragm, a coil former J114, and a coil winding J115. The diaphragm includes a cone J101 and a cap J120. The diaphragm suspension system includes a flexible rubber surround J105 and a spider J119. The transducer mechanism includes a force-generating component, which is a coil winding held in a magnetic circuit. The transducer mechanism also includes a magnet J116, a top pole piece J118, and a T-yoke J117 that drives the magnetic circuit through the coil. When an electrical audio signal is applied to the coil, a force is generated in the coil, which exerts a counterforce on the base structure.

[0004] The driver is mounted to the housing J102 by a mounting system consisting of a number of washers J111 and bushings J107 made of flexible natural rubber. The driver is secured using a number of steel bolts J106, nuts J109, and washers J108. There is a separation point J112 between the basket J113 and the housing J102; this configuration is such that the mounting system is the only connection between the housing J102 and the driver. In this example, the diaphragm moves back and forth in a substantially linear manner, without any significant rotational component, in the axial direction of the cone that forms the diaphragm.

[0005] As noted, a flexible diaphragm connected to a rigid housing J102 by a suspension and mounting system forms a resonant system in which the diaphragm is susceptible to undesirable resonances across the driver's operating frequency range. Additionally, other parts of the driver, including the diaphragm suspension and mounting system and even the housing, may be subject to mechanical resonances that can adversely affect the driver's sound quality. Accordingly, prior art driver systems have attempted to minimize the effects of mechanical resonances by employing one or more damping techniques within the driver system. Such techniques include, for example, impedance matching of the diaphragm to a rubber diaphragm surround and / or modifications to the diaphragm design, including the diaphragm's shape, material, and / or configuration.

[0006] Many microphones have the same basic configuration as speakers. Microphones work in reverse, converting sound waves into electrical signals. To do this, they use sound pressure in the air to move a diaphragm, converting that motion into an electrical audio signal. Therefore, microphones have a similar configuration to speaker drivers and present some of the same design challenges, including mechanical resonances of the diaphragm, diaphragm surround, and other parts of the transducer, as well as the housing in which the transducer is mounted. These resonances can adversely affect the quality of the conversion.

[0007] Passive radiators have the same basic structure as speakers, except they lack a transducer, and therefore present some of the same design challenges, all of which create mechanical resonances that can adversely affect operation. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] It is an object of the present invention to enable improvements in or relating to audio transducers that serve in some way to address some of the resonance challenges discussed above, or at least to provide the general public with a useful choice. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In one aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm body having one or more main surfaces; a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and adjacent at least one of the major surfaces to resist compression-tension stresses experienced at or near the surface of the body during operation; at least one internal reinforcing member embedded in the body and oriented at an angle relative to at least one of said major surfaces to resist and / or substantially reduce shear deformations experienced by the body during operation; It can be said that the audio transducer is composed of a diaphragm.

[0010] Preferably, each of the at least one internal stiffening member is separate from the diaphragm body and connected to the diaphragm body to provide resistance to shear deformation on the face of the stress stiffener separate from any resistance to shear provided by the body.

[0011] Preferably, each internal stiffening member extends within the diaphragm body substantially perpendicular to the coronal plane of the diaphragm body.

[0012] Preferably, each internal stiffening member extends towards and within one or more peripheral regions of the diaphragm body that are substantially distal-most from the location of the centre of mass of the diaphragm.

[0013] Preferably, the diaphragm comprises a plurality of internal stiffening members. Preferably, each internal stiffening member has a resistance of at least about 8 MPa / (kg / m 3). Preferably, each internal reinforcing member is formed from a material having a specific modulus of at least about 20 MPa / (kg / m 3 ) is formed from a material having a specific modulus of elasticity.

[0014] Each internal reinforcement member, or both, may be formed from, for example, aluminum or carbon fiber reinforced plastic.

[0015] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm as defined in the previous aspect and its associated features configured to move during operation; a translation mechanism operably connected to the diaphragm and operable in relation to the movement of the diaphragm; a housing comprising an enclosure or baffle for containing the diaphragm therein or therebetween; the diaphragm having a periphery with one or more peripheral regions that are not physically connected to the housing; It can be said to consist of an audio transducer.

[0016] Preferably, the perimeter is significantly free of physical interconnections, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 20%, and more preferably at least 30%, of the length or circumference of the perimeter. More preferably, the perimeter is substantially free of physical interconnections, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 50%, and more preferably at least 80%, of the length or circumference of the perimeter. Most preferably, the perimeter is approximately completely free of physical interconnections, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise approximately the entire length or circumference of the perimeter.

[0017] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: A diaphragm as defined in any one of the previous aspects and its associated features configured to move during operation; a housing having an enclosure or baffle for containing the diaphragm therein or therebetween; It can be said to consist of an audio transducer equipped with

[0018] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm body having one or more main surfaces; a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and connected near at least one of the major surfaces to resist compressive-tensile stresses experienced by the body during operation; the mass distribution associated with the diaphragm body or the mass distribution associated with the normal stress stiffener, or both, is such that the diaphragm has a relatively small mass in one or more low-mass regions of the diaphragm compared to the mass in one or more high-mass regions of the diaphragm; diaphragm, and a housing having an enclosure and / or baffles for containing the diaphragm therein or therebetween; the diaphragm having a periphery that is at least partially not physically coupled to the interior of the housing; It can be said to consist of an audio transducer.

[0019] The following statements apply to any one of the preceding aspects.

[0020] Preferably, the diaphragm has one or more peripheral regions that are not physically connected to the interior of the housing. Preferably, the periphery is significantly physically disconnected, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 20%, and more preferably at least 30%, of the length or circumference of the periphery. More preferably, the periphery is substantially free of physical connection, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 50%, and more preferably at least 80%, of the length or circumference of the periphery. Most preferably, the periphery is approximately completely free of physical connection, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise approximately the entire length or circumference of the periphery.

[0021] In some embodiments, a relatively small air gap separates the one or more peripheral regions of the diaphragm from the interior of the housing.

[0022] In some embodiments, the transducer includes a ferrofluid between one or more peripheral regions of the diaphragm and the interior of the housing.

[0023] Preferably, the ferrofluid provides substantial support to the diaphragm in the coronal direction of the diaphragm.

[0024] Preferably, the transducer further comprises a conversion mechanism operatively connected to the diaphragm and operable in relation to movement of the diaphragm.

[0025] The following statements apply to any one or more of the preceding aspects.

[0026] Preferably, the diaphragm body is formed from a core material. Preferably, the core material comprises a three-dimensional non-uniform, interconnected structure. The core material may be a foam or a material with an ordered three-dimensional lattice structure. The core material may comprise a composite material. Preferably, the core material is expanded polystyrene foam. Alternative materials include polymethyl methacrylamide foam, polyvinyl chloride foam, polyurethane foam, polyethylene foam, aerogel foam, cardboard, balsa wood, syntactic foam, metal microlattice, and honeycomb.

[0027] Preferably, the diaphragm body separated from the reinforcing material has a resistance of 100 kg / m 3 More preferably, the density is less than 50 kg / m 3 More preferably, the density is less than 35 kg / m 3 Most preferably the density is less than 20 kg / m 3 is less than.

[0028] Preferably, the diaphragm body separated from the reinforcing material has a compressive strength of 0.2 MPa / (kg / m 3) and most preferably, the specific modulus is greater than 0.4 MPa / (kg / m 3 ) is greater than.

[0029] Preferably, the normal stress stiffener comprises one or more normal stress stiffening members each connected adjacent one of said major faces of the body.

[0030] Preferably, each normal stress stiffening member comprises one or more elongated struts connected along a corresponding major surface of the diaphragm body.

[0031] More preferably, each strut has a thickness greater than 1 / 60 of its width.

[0032] Preferably, the struts are interconnected and extend over a substantial portion of the associated face of the diaphragm body.

[0033] Preferably, the normal stress reinforcement member(s) are anisotropic, exhibiting at least twice the stiffness in some directions as they do in other substantially orthogonal directions.

[0034] Preferably, the diaphragm comprises at least two normal stress reinforcing members connected to or near opposing major surfaces of the diaphragm body.

[0035] Preferably, the diaphragm comprises a first reinforcing member and a second reinforcing member on opposite major surfaces of the diaphragm body, the first reinforcing member and the second reinforcing member forming a triangular stiffener that supports the diaphragm body against displacement in a direction substantially perpendicular to the coronal plane of the diaphragm body.

[0036] Preferably, each normal stress reinforcing member has a strength of at least about 8 MPa / (kg / m 3 ). Preferably, each normal stress reinforcement member is formed from a material having a specific modulus of at least about 20 MPa / (kg / m 3Preferably, each normal stress reinforcement member is formed from a material having a specific modulus of elasticity of at least about 100 MPa / (kg / m 3 ) is formed from a material having a specific modulus of elasticity.

[0037] The normal stress stiffeners may be formed from, for example, aluminum or carbon fiber reinforced plastic.

[0038] Preferably, the diaphragm body is substantially thick.

[0039] For example, the diaphragm body may have a maximum thickness that is at least about 11% of the maximum linear dimension of the body. More preferably, the maximum thickness is at least about 14% of the maximum linear dimension of the body.

[0040] Preferably, the diaphragm thickness is at least 15% of the diaphragm radius from the center of mass of the diaphragm to the most distal periphery of the diaphragm body, and more preferably at least about 20% of this radius.

[0041] Preferably, the mass distribution associated with the diaphragm body or the mass distribution associated with the normal stress stiffeners, or both, is such that the diaphragm has a relatively small mass in one or more low-mass regions of the diaphragm compared to the mass in one or more high-mass regions of the diaphragm.

[0042] Preferably, the one or more regions of low mass are in peripheral regions distal to the centroid of the diaphragm, and the one or more regions of high mass are at or proximal to the centroid.

[0043] Preferably, the one or more regions of low mass are in the peripheral region that is furthest from the center of mass location.

[0044] In some embodiments, the region of low mass is at one end of the diaphragm and the region of high mass is at the opposite end.

[0045] In an alternative embodiment, the regions of low mass are distributed substantially around the periphery of the diaphragm, and the regions of high mass are in a central region of the diaphragm.

[0046] In some embodiments, the mass distribution of the normal stress stiffener is such that a relatively small mass is located in one or more low mass regions.

[0047] Preferably, the low mass region does not have any normal stress stiffeners.

[0048] Preferably, at least 10 percent of the total surface area of ​​the peripheral region or regions is free of normal stress reinforcements.

[0049] Preferably, the normal stress stiffener comprises a stiffener plate associated with each major surface of the body, each stiffener plate comprising one or more recesses in one or more regions of low mass.

[0050] In some embodiments, the mass distribution of the diaphragm body is such that the diaphragm body has a relatively low mass in one or more low mass regions.

[0051] Preferably, the thickness of the diaphragm body decreases, preferably by tapering from the centre of mass towards one or more regions of less mass.

[0052] Preferably, the one or more areas of low mass are located at or beyond a radius centered on the center of mass of the diaphragm that is 50 percent of the total distance from the center of mass to the distal-most periphery of the diaphragm.

[0053] Preferably, the one or more areas of low mass are located at or beyond a radius centered on the center of mass of the diaphragm that is 80 percent of the total distance from the center of mass to the distal-most periphery of the diaphragm.

[0054] Preferably, the thickness of the diaphragm body decreases from the axis of rotation towards the opposite ends of the diaphragm body.

[0055] Preferably, there are no supports and / or similar vertical stiffeners attached to the lateral outside of the diaphragm body.

[0056] Preferably, there are no supports and / or similar vertical stiffeners attached to the end faces of the diaphragm body.

[0057] In some embodiments, the normal stress stiffening members extend substantially longitudinally along a substantial portion of the overall length of the diaphragm body at or immediately adjacent each major surface of the diaphragm body.

[0058] Preferably, the normal stress stiffeners on one surface extend to the terminal end of the diaphragm body and connect with normal stress stiffeners on the opposing major surface of the diaphragm body.

[0059] The normal stress stiffener may be external to the body and connected to at least one major surface, or alternatively, may be connected within the body immediately adjacent and substantially proximal to said at least one major surface so as to sufficiently resist compressive-tensile stresses during operation.

[0060] Preferably, the normal stress stiffeners are oriented generally parallel to at least one major surface.

[0061] Preferably, the normal stress stiffener is comprised of a material having a density substantially greater than that of the body. Preferably, the normal stress stiffener material is at least 5 times the density of the body. More preferably, the normal stress stiffener material is at least 10 times the density of the body. Even more preferably, the normal stress stiffener material is at least 15 times the density of the body. Even more preferably, the normal stress stiffener material is at least 50 times the density of the body. Most preferably, the normal stress stiffener material is at least 75 times the density of the body.

[0062] Preferably, the diaphragm body comprises at least one substantially smooth major surface and the normal stress stiffener comprises at least one stiffening member extending along one of said substantially smooth major surfaces. Preferably, the at least one stiffening member extends along a substantial portion or the entirety of one or more corresponding major surfaces. The smooth major surface may be planar or alternatively curved (extending in three dimensions) smooth.

[0063] In some embodiments, each normal stress stiffening member comprises one or more substantially smooth stiffener plates having a profile corresponding to an associated major surface and configured to cover or immediately connect to the associated major surface of the diaphragm body.

[0064] In the same or alternative embodiment, each vertical stress stiffening member comprises one or more elongated struts connected along a corresponding major surface of the diaphragm body. Preferably, the one or more struts extend substantially longitudinally along the major surface. Preferably, each vertical stress stiffening member comprises a plurality of spaced apart struts extending substantially longitudinally along the corresponding major surface. Alternatively, or additionally, each vertical stress stiffening member comprises one or more struts extending at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the corresponding major surface. The vertical stress stiffening member may comprise a network of relatively angled struts extending along a substantial portion of the corresponding major surface.

[0065] Preferably, the normal stress stiffener comprises a pair of stiffening members each connected to or immediately adjacent a pair of opposing major surfaces of the diaphragm body.

[0066] Preferably, each of the at least one internal stiffening member is separate from and connected to the core material of the diaphragm body to provide resistance to shear deformation on the face of the stress stiffener apart from any resistance to shear provided by the core material.

[0067] Preferably, each of the at least one internal reinforcing member extends within the core material at an angle relative to at least one of said major surfaces sufficient to resist shear deformation in use, preferably the angle is between 40 and 140 degrees, more preferably between 60 and 120 degrees, even more preferably between 80 and 100 degrees, and most preferably about 90 degrees, relative to the major surface.

[0068] Preferably, each of the at least one internal reinforcing member is embedded in and between a pair of opposing major surfaces of the body, and preferably each internal reinforcing member extends substantially perpendicular to the pair of opposing major surfaces and / or extends substantially parallel to the sagittal plane of the diaphragm body.

[0069] Preferably, each internal reinforcing member is connected on either side to one of the opposing vertical stress reinforcing members. Alternatively, each internal reinforcing member extends adjacent to but spaced from the opposing vertical stress reinforcing member.

[0070] Preferably, each internal reinforcing member extends within the core material substantially perpendicular to a coronal plane of the diaphragm body, and preferably extends substantially toward one or more peripheral edge regions that are distal to the center of mass of the diaphragm for the majority of the associated major surface.

[0071] Preferably, each internal reinforcing member is a solid plate. Alternatively, each internal reinforcing member comprises a network of coplanar struts. These plates and / or struts may be planar or three-dimensional.

[0072] Preferably, each normal stress reinforcement member is formed from a material having a relatively high specific modulus of elasticity compared to plastic materials, for example a metal such as aluminum, a ceramic such as aluminum oxide, or a high modulus fiber such as that contained in carbon fiber reinforced plastic.

[0073] Preferably, each normal stress reinforcing member has a strength of at least about 8 MPa / (kg / m 3 ), and more preferably at least 20 MPa / (kg / m 3 ), and most preferably at least 100 MPa / (kg / m 3 ) is formed from a material having a specific modulus of elasticity.

[0074] Preferably, each internal reinforcing member is formed from a material having a relatively high maximum specific modulus of elasticity compared to non-composite plastic materials, for example, a metal such as aluminum, a ceramic such as aluminum oxide, or a high modulus fiber such as that found in carbon fiber reinforced plastic. Preferably, each internal reinforcing member has a high modulus of elasticity in directions at about +45 degrees and about -45 degrees relative to the coronal plane of the diaphragm body.

[0075] Preferably, each internal reinforcing member has a strength of at least about 8 MPa / (kg / m 3 ), and most preferably at least 20 MPa / (kg / m 3 For example, some internal reinforcement members may be made from aluminum or carbon fiber reinforced plastic.

[0076] Preferably, the diaphragm body is substantially thick. For example, the diaphragm body may have a maximum thickness that is at least about 11% of the maximum linear dimension of the body. More preferably, the maximum thickness is at least about 14% of the maximum linear dimension of the body. Alternatively, or additionally, the diaphragm body may have a maximum thickness that is at least about 15% of the length of the body, and more preferably at least about 20% of the length of the body.

[0077] Alternatively, or in addition, the diaphragm body may have a thickness greater than about 8% of the shortest length along the major surface of the diaphragm body, greater than about 12% of the shortest length, or greater than about 18% of the shortest length.

[0078] Preferably, each normal stress stiffening member is bonded to the corresponding major surface of the diaphragm body via a relatively thin layer of adhesive, such as an epoxy adhesive. Preferably, each internal stiffening member is bonded to the core material and corresponding normal stress stiffening member(s) via a relatively thin layer of epoxy adhesive. Preferably, the adhesive accounts for less than about 70% of the weight of the corresponding internal stiffening member. More preferably, the adhesive accounts for less than 60%, or less than 50%, or less than 40%, or less than 30%, or most preferably less than 25% of the weight of the corresponding internal stiffening member.

[0079] In one embodiment, the diaphragm body has a substantially triangular cross-section along a sagittal plane of the diaphragm body.

[0080] Preferably, the diaphragm body has a wedge-shaped configuration.

[0081] In an alternative embodiment, the diaphragm body has a substantially rectangular cross-section along a sagittal plane of the diaphragm body.

[0082] Preferably, each internal reinforcing member has an average thickness of less than a value "x" (measured in mm), as determined by the following formula:

number

[0083] In some embodiments, each internal stiffener may be made from a material that is less than 0.4 mm thick, more preferably less than 0.2 mm thick, more preferably less than 0.1 mm thick, and more preferably less than 0.02 mm thick.

[0084] In some embodiments, the mass distribution of the normal stress stiffeners is such that a relatively small mass is located in a lower mass region near one end of the associated major surface. In some configurations, the diaphragm does not have any normal stress stiffeners in this lower mass region. In other configurations, the normal stress stiffeners have a smaller thickness, width, or both in this lower mass region compared to other regions.

[0085] In some embodiments, the mass distribution of the normal stress stiffeners is such that a relatively small mass is located at one or more peripheral edge regions of the associated major surface. In some configurations, the diaphragm does not have any normal stress stiffeners at these one or more peripheral regions. In other configurations, the normal stress stiffeners have a smaller thickness, width, or both in these one or more peripheral regions compared to other regions.

[0086] In some embodiments, the diaphragm body has a relatively small mass at or near one end. Preferably, the diaphragm body has a relatively small thickness at this end. In some embodiments, the thickness of the diaphragm body is tapered, decreasing in thickness toward this end. In other embodiments, the thickness of the diaphragm body is stepped, decreasing in thickness toward this end. In some embodiments, the thickness envelope or profile between both ends is angled at an angle of at least 4 degrees relative to the coronal plane of the diaphragm body, and more preferably at least about 5 degrees relative to the coronal plane of the diaphragm body.

[0087] In some embodiments, the diaphragm body has a relatively small mass at or near one end. Preferably, the diaphragm body has a relatively small thickness at this end. In some embodiments, the thickness of the diaphragm body is tapered, decreasing in thickness toward this end. In other embodiments, the thickness of the diaphragm body is stepped, decreasing in thickness toward this end. In some embodiments, the thickness envelope or profile between both ends is angled at an angle of at least 4 degrees relative to the coronal plane of the diaphragm body, and more preferably at least about 5 degrees relative to the coronal plane of the diaphragm body.

[0088] The following applies to each of the audio transducer aspects listed above:

[0089] Preferably, the audio transducer is a transducer base structure to which the diaphragm is rotatably connected so as to rotate during operation; a conversion mechanism operably connected to the diaphragm and operating in relation to the rotation of the diaphragm; Further provided are:

[0090] Preferably, the audio transducer further comprises a hinge system rotatably connecting the diaphragm to the transducer base structure.

[0091] In some embodiments, the hinge system is configured to facilitate movement of the diaphragm and comprises one or more portions that significantly contribute to resisting translational displacement of the diaphragm relative to the transducer base structure and have a Young's modulus greater than about 8 GPa, and more preferably greater than about 20 GPa.

[0092] Preferably, all parts of the hinge assembly which operably support the diaphragm in use have a Young's modulus greater than about 8 GPa, and more preferably greater than about 20 GPa.

[0093] Preferably, all portions of the hinge assembly configured to facilitate movement of the diaphragm and that contribute significantly to resisting translational displacement of the diaphragm relative to the transducer base structure have a Young's modulus greater than about 8 GPa, and more preferably greater than about 20 GPa.

[0094] In some embodiments, a hinge system comprises a hinge assembly having one or more hinge connections, each hinge connection comprising a hinge element and a contact member, the contact member having a contact surface, and wherein, during operation, each hinge connection is configured to allow the hinge element to move relative to the associated contact member while maintaining substantially stable physical contact with the contact surface, and the hinge assembly biases the hinge element toward the contact surface.

[0095] Preferably, the hinge assembly further comprises a biasing mechanism, the hinge element being biased towards the contact surface by the biasing mechanism.

[0096] Preferably, the biasing mechanism is substantially compliant.

[0097] Preferably, the biasing mechanism is substantially compliant in a direction substantially perpendicular to the contact surface at the contact area between the respective hinge element and the associated contact member during operation.

[0098] In some other embodiments, the hinge system comprises at least one hinge connection, each hinge connection pivotally connecting the diaphragm to the transducer base structure to allow the diaphragm to rotate relative to the transducer base structure about an axis of rotation during operation, and at least two resilient hinge elements rigidly coupled to the transducer base structure on one side and to the diaphragm on an opposite side and tilted relative to each other, each hinge element tightly coupled to both the transducer base structure and the diaphragm and having substantial translational rigidity to resist compressive, tensile and / or shear deformations along and across the element during operation, and substantial flexibility to allow bending in response to forces normal to the element.

[0099] An audio device including any one of the above audio transducers and further comprising a decoupling mounting system disposed between the diaphragm of the audio transducer and at least one other portion of the audio device to at least partially mitigate mechanical transmission of vibrations between the diaphragm and the at least one other portion of the audio device, the decoupling mounting system flexibly mounting a first component to a second component of the audio device.

[0100] Preferably, the at least one other part of the audio device is not another part of the diaphragm of an audio transducer of the device. Preferably, the decoupling mounting system is connected between the transducer base structure and the other part. Preferably, the other part is a transducer housing.

[0101] In a first embodiment, the audio transducer is an electroacoustic speaker and further comprises a force transmitting component that acts on the diaphragm to cause the diaphragm to move in use.

[0102] Preferably, the conversion mechanism comprises an electromagnetic mechanism. Preferably, the electromagnetic mechanism comprises a magnetic structure and an electrically conductive element.

[0103] Preferably, the force transmitting component is rigidly attached to the diaphragm.

[0104] In another aspect, the invention may comprise an audio device comprising two or more electroacoustic speakers incorporating any one or more of the audio transducers of the above aspects and having two or more distinct audio channels through which independent audio signals can be reproduced, preferably a personal audio device adapted for audio within about 10 cm of a user's ears.

[0105] In another aspect, the invention may be said to consist of a personal audio device incorporating one or more audio transducers and any combination thereof and associated features, configurations and embodiments of any one of the preceding audio transducer aspects.

[0106] In another aspect, the invention can be said to consist of a personal audio device comprising a pair of interface devices configured to be worn by a user at or near each ear, each interface device comprising one or more audio transducers and any combination of their associated features, configurations and embodiments of any one of the preceding audio transducer aspects.

[0107] In another aspect, the invention can be said to consist in a headphone apparatus comprising a pair of headphone interface devices configured to be worn on or about each ear, each interface device comprising one or more audio transducers and any combination of their associated features, configurations and embodiments of any one of the preceding audio transducer aspects.

[0108] In another aspect, the invention can be said to consist of an earphone device comprising a pair of earphone interfaces configured to be fitted within the ear canal or concha of a user's ear, each earphone interface comprising one or more audio transducers and any combination of their associated features, configurations and embodiments of any one of the preceding audio transducer aspects.

[0109] In another aspect, the invention may comprise the audio transducer of any one of the above aspects, and related features, configurations, and embodiments, wherein the audio transducer is an acoustoelectric transducer.

[0110] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm body having one or more main surfaces; a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and adjacent at least one of the major surfaces to resist compressive-tensile stresses experienced by the diaphragm body during operation; at least one internal stiffening member embedded in the core material and oriented at an angle to the normal stress stiffener to resist and / or substantially reduce shear deformations experienced by the body during operation; the mass distribution of the normal stress stiffener is such that a relatively small mass is located at one or more peripheral edge regions of the associated major surface that are distal to the center of mass location of the assembled diaphragm; It can be said that it is composed of a diaphragm.

[0111] Preferably, the one or more regions distal from the center of mass location are the one or more regions furthest from the center of mass location.

[0112] In some embodiments, the region or regions most distal from the center of mass location do not have any normal stress stiffeners.

[0113] In some embodiments, the normal stress stiffener comprises a stiffener plate, the region of the plate distal to the center of mass comprising one or more recesses, preferably a pair of opposing regions distal to the center of mass comprising one or more recesses, preferably the width of each recess increasing with distance from the center of mass.

[0114] In some embodiments, at least one recess in the normal stress reinforcement is disposed between a pair of interior reinforcement members.

[0115] In some embodiments, the normal stress stiffener comprises a stiffener plate, the region of the plate distal to the center of mass having a reduced thickness compared to a region at or proximal to the center of mass.

[0116] The thickness of the plate may be stepped or tapered between the proximal and distal regions.

[0117] In a third aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm body having one or more main surfaces; a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and adjacent at least one of the major surfaces to resist compressive-tensile stresses experienced by the body during operation; at least one internal stiffening member embedded in the body and oriented at an angle to the normal stress stiffener to resist and / or mitigate shear deformations experienced by the body during operation; The diaphragm body has a relatively small mass in one or more regions distal to the center of mass of the diaphragm. It can be said that it is composed of a diaphragm.

[0118] Preferably, the diaphragm body has a relatively small thickness in one or more regions distal to the center of mass location.

[0119] Preferably, the one or more regions distal from the center of mass location are the one or more regions most distal from the center of mass location.

[0120] In some embodiments, the thickness of the diaphragm body is tapered, decreasing in thickness towards the distal region, while in other embodiments, the thickness of the diaphragm body is stepped, decreasing in thickness towards the distal region.

[0121] In some embodiments, the diaphragm body has a relatively small mass in one or more regions distal to the center of mass location of the diaphragm.

[0122] Preferably, the peripheral region or regions most distal from the centre of mass are substantially straight-tipped.

[0123] In a fourth aspect, the invention generally relates to a method for producing a pharmaceutical composition comprising: a diaphragm body made of a core material having one or more major surfaces; a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and adjacent at least one of the major surfaces to resist compressive-tensile stresses experienced by the body during operation; at least one internal stiffening member embedded in the body and oriented at an angle to the normal stress stiffener to resist and / or mitigate shear deformations experienced by the body during operation; the diaphragm having a relatively small mass in one or more regions distal to a center of mass location of the diaphragm; It can be said that an audio transducer is composed of a diaphragm.

[0124] Preferably, the one or more regions distal from the center of mass location are the one or more regions furthest from the center of mass location.

[0125] Preferably, the mass distribution of the normal stress stiffener is such that a relatively small mass is at one or more peripheral edge regions of the associated major surface distal to the location of the center of mass. Alternatively, or additionally, the diaphragm body has a relatively small mass at one or more peripheral regions of the diaphragm distal to the location of the center of mass of the diaphragm.

[0126] Preferably, the diaphragm body has a relatively small thickness in one or more distal regions, and the mass distribution of the normal stress stiffener is such that the relatively small mass is in the one or more distal regions.

[0127] Preferably, the one or more regions distal from the center of mass location are the one or more regions furthest from the center of mass location.

[0128] In some embodiments, the region or regions most distal from the center of mass location do not have any normal stress stiffeners.

[0129] In some embodiments, the normal stress stiffener comprises a stiffener plate, the region of the plate distal to the center of mass comprising one or more recesses. Preferably, a pair of opposing regions distal to the center of mass comprise one or more recesses. Preferably, the width of each recess increases with distance from the center of mass.

[0130] In some embodiments, at least one recess in the normal stress reinforcement is disposed between a pair of interior reinforcement members.

[0131] In some embodiments, the normal stress stiffener comprises a stiffener plate, the region of the plate distal to the center of mass having a reduced thickness compared to a region at or proximal to the center of mass.

[0132] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm body having one or more main surfaces; a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and connected near at least one of the major surfaces to resist compressive-tensile stresses experienced by the body during operation; The mass distribution of the normal stress stiffener is such that a relatively small mass is located in one or more regions distal to the center of mass of the diaphragm. diaphragm, and a housing including an enclosure and / or a baffle for accommodating the diaphragm; the diaphragm having a periphery that is at least partially not physically coupled to the interior of the housing; It can be said to consist of an audio transducer.

[0133] Preferably, the diaphragm comprises one or more peripheral regions that are not physically connected to the interior of the housing.

[0134] Preferably, the perimeter is significantly free of physical interconnections, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 20%, and more preferably at least 30%, of the length or circumference of the perimeter. More preferably, the perimeter is substantially free of physical interconnections, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 50%, and more preferably at least 80%, of the length or circumference of the perimeter. Most preferably, the perimeter is approximately completely free of physical interconnections, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise approximately the entire length or circumference of the perimeter.

[0135] In some embodiments, the area of ​​the periphery that is furthest from the center of mass of the diaphragm is less supported by the interior of the housing than the area that is closer to the center of mass.

[0136] Preferably, the region or regions most distal from the centre of mass location do not have any normal stress stiffeners.

[0137] Preferably, the diaphragm body has a relatively small mass in one or more regions distal to the center of mass location.

[0138] Preferably, the diaphragm body has a relatively small thickness at the one or more distal regions, which may be tapered or stepped towards the one or more distal regions.

[0139] In one embodiment, the thickness of the diaphragm body tapers continuously from a region at or proximal to the center of mass to one or more regions furthest from the center of mass.

[0140] Preferably, one or more distal regions of the diaphragm body are aligned with one or more distal regions of the normal stress stiffener.

[0141] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm body having one or more main surfaces; a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and connected near at least one of the major surfaces to resist compressive-tensile stresses experienced by the body during operation; At least one major surface does not have any normal stress stiffeners in one or more peripheral edge regions, each peripheral edge region being located at or beyond a radius centered at the center of mass of the diaphragm that is 50 percent of the total distance from the center of mass to the distal-most peripheral edge of the major surface. diaphragm, and a housing including an enclosure and / or a baffle for accommodating the diaphragm; the diaphragm having an outer periphery that is at least partially not physically coupled to the interior of the housing; It can be said to consist of an audio transducer.

[0142] Preferably, the diaphragm includes one or more peripheral regions that are not physically connected to the interior of the housing. Preferably, the periphery is significantly physically disconnected, such that the one or more peripheral regions constitute at least 20%, and more preferably at least 30%, of the length or circumference of the periphery. More preferably, the periphery is substantially free of physical connection, such that the one or more peripheral regions constitute at least 50%, and more preferably at least 80%, of the length or circumference of the periphery. Most preferably, the periphery is approximately completely free of physical connection, such that the one or more peripheral regions constitute approximately the entire length or circumference of the periphery. Preferably, each one or more peripheral edge regions is located at or beyond 80 percent of the total distance from the center of mass to the distal-most peripheral edge of the major surface.

[0143] Preferably, the normal stress stiffener comprises a pair of stiffening members connected to opposite major surfaces of the diaphragm body.

[0144] Preferably, at least 10 percent of the total surface area of ​​one or more major faces has no normal stress stiffeners, or at least 25%, or at least 50% of the total surface area of ​​one or more major faces has no normal stress stiffeners.

[0145] Preferably, the diaphragm has a relatively small mass per unit area at one or more peripheral edge regions distal from the center of mass.

[0146] Preferably, the diaphragm has a relatively small mass per unit area at one or more peripheral edge regions of the diaphragm compared to the coronal surface of the diaphragm, or alternatively compared to the surface of the main surface of the diaphragm body.

[0147] Preferably, the diaphragm body has a relatively small thickness at one or more peripheral edge regions of the diaphragm, which may be tapered or stepped towards said one or more distal peripheral edge regions.

[0148] In a seventh aspect, the invention generally relates to a method for producing a pharmaceutical composition comprising: a diaphragm body having one or more main surfaces; a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and adjacent at least one of the major surfaces to resist compressive-tensile stresses experienced by the body during operation; the normal stress reinforcement comprises reinforcement members on one or more of said major surfaces, each reinforcement member comprising a series of struts; diaphragm, and a housing including an enclosure and / or a baffle for accommodating the diaphragm; the diaphragm having an outer periphery that is at least partially not physically coupled to the interior of the housing; It can be said to consist of an audio transducer.

[0149] Preferably, the diaphragm has one or more peripheral regions that are not physically connected to the interior of the housing. Preferably, the periphery is significantly physically disconnected, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 20%, and more preferably at least 30%, of the length or circumference of the periphery. More preferably, the periphery is substantially physically disconnected, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 50%, and more preferably at least 80%, of the length or circumference of the periphery. Most preferably, the periphery is approximately completely free of physical connection, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise approximately the entire length or circumference of the periphery.

[0150] Preferably, the struts have a reduced thickness in one or more regions distal to the centre of mass of the diaphragm.

[0151] Preferably, each strut has a thickness greater than 1 / 100 of its width, more preferably, each strut has a thickness greater than 1 / 60 of its width, and most preferably, each strut has a thickness greater than 1 / 20 of its width.

[0152] Preferably, the one or more normal stress reinforcement members are formed from an anisotropic material.

[0153] Preferably, the anisotropic normal stress reinforcement member has a normal stress of at least 8 MPa / (kg / m 3 ), and more preferably at least 20 MPa / (kg / m 3 ), and most preferably at least 100 MPa / (kg / m 3 ) is formed from a material having a specific modulus of elasticity.

[0154] Preferably, the anisotropic material is a fiber composite material, wherein the fibers are threaded through each strut in a substantially unidirectional orientation. Preferably, the fibers are threaded in a substantially co-ordinating orientation with the longitudinal axis of the associated strut. Preferably, each strut is formed from a unidirectional carbon fiber composite material. Preferably, the composite material incorporates carbon fibers having a Young's modulus of at least about 100 GPa, more preferably greater than 200 GPa, and most preferably greater than 400 GPa.

[0155] Preferably, the normal stress stiffener comprises a pair of stiffeners connected to opposite major surfaces of the diaphragm body, with one or more struts of a first stiffener on one major surface linking with one or more struts of a second stiffener on the opposite major surface around the periphery of the diaphragm body.

[0156] Preferably, the first stiffening member and the second stiffening member form a triangular stiffener that supports the diaphragm body against displacement in a direction substantially perpendicular to the coronal plane of the diaphragm body.

[0157] Preferably, each stiffening member comprises a plurality of struts. Preferably, the struts intersect. Preferably, the intersection areas between the struts are located at or beyond 50 percent of the total distance from the center of mass of the diaphragm to the periphery of the diaphragm. Other intersection areas may be located within 50 percent of this total distance.

[0158] Preferably, at least one major surface of the diaphragm body does not have any normal stress stiffeners in one or more peripheral edge regions of the associated major surface, each peripheral edge region being located at or beyond a radius centered on the center of mass location that is 50 percent of the total distance from the center of mass location to the distal-most peripheral edge of the major surface.

[0159] Preferably, the normal stress stiffener comprises a pair of stiffening members connected to opposite major surfaces of the diaphragm body, both major surfaces being free of any normal stress stiffener in associated peripheral edge regions.

[0160] Preferably, at least 10 percent, or at least 25%, or at least 50% of the total surface area of ​​one or more major faces is free of normal stress reinforcements in one or more peripheral edge regions.

[0161] Preferably, the diaphragm body has a relatively small mass in one or more regions distal to the center of mass of the diaphragm.

[0162] Preferably, the diaphragm body has a relatively small thickness at the one or more distal regions, which may be tapered or stepped towards the one or more distal regions.

[0163] In a first embodiment of any one of the aspects of the audio transducer described above, and their associated features, embodiments and configurations, the audio transducer is an electroacoustic speaker and further comprises a force transmitting component that acts on the diaphragm to cause movement of the diaphragm in use.

[0164] Preferably, the audio transducer is a transducer base structure; and a conversion mechanism, wherein the diaphragm is movably connected to the transducer base structure and operatively connected to the conversion mechanism, such that, during operation, movement of the diaphragm relative to the base structure converts electrical audio signals received by the conversion mechanism into sound.

[0165] Preferably, the transducer base structure is substantially thick and has a chunky geometry.

[0166] Preferably, the transduction mechanism comprises an electromagnetic mechanism. Preferably, the electromagnetic mechanism comprises a magnetic structure and a conductive element. Preferably, the magnetic structure is connected to and forms part of the transducer base structure, and the conductive element is connected to and forms part of the diaphragm. Preferably, the magnetic structure comprises a permanent magnet and inner and outer pole pieces separated by a gap and generating a magnetic field therebetween. Preferably, the conductive element comprises at least one coil winding. Preferably, the diaphragm comprises a diaphragm base frame, and the conductive element is rigidly connected to the diaphragm base frame.

[0167] In the first configuration, the diaphragm is rotatably connected to the transducer base structure. Preferably, a diaphragm base frame is disposed at one end of the diaphragm and rigidly connected thereto. Preferably, the audio transducer further comprises a hinge system for rotatably connecting the diaphragm to the transducer base structure.

[0168] Preferably, the diaphragm vibrates about an axis of rotation during operation.

[0169] In one form, the hinge system comprises a hinge assembly having one or more hinge connections, each hinge connection comprising a hinge element and a contact member, the contact member having a contact surface, wherein during operation, each hinge connection is configured to allow the hinge element to move relative to the associated contact member while maintaining substantially stable physical contact with the contact surface, and the hinge assembly biases the hinge element toward the contact surface. Preferably, the hinge assembly further comprises a biasing mechanism, wherein the hinge element is biased toward the contact surface by the biasing mechanism. Preferably, the biasing mechanism is substantially compliant. Preferably, during operation, the biasing mechanism is substantially compliant in a direction substantially perpendicular to the contact surface at a contact area between the respective hinge element and the associated contact member.

[0170] In another form, the hinge system comprises at least one hinge connection, each hinge connection pivotally connecting the diaphragm to the transducer base structure to allow the diaphragm to rotate relative to the transducer base structure about an axis of rotation during operation, the hinge connection comprising at least two resilient hinge elements rigidly coupled to the transducer base structure on one side and to the diaphragm on an opposite side and angled relative to each other, each hinge element tightly coupled to both the transducer base structure and the diaphragm and having substantial translational stiffness to resist compressive, tensile and / or shear deformation along and across the element during operation, and substantial flexibility to allow bending in response to forces normal to the section of the hinge element.

[0171] In a second configuration, the audio transducer is a linear motion transducer, in which the diaphragm is linearly movable relative to a transducer base structure. Preferably, a diaphragm base frame is connected to a central region of the diaphragm and extends from a major surface of this structure across to the magnetic structure.

[0172] Preferably, at least one audio transducer comprises a diaphragm suspension that connects the diaphragm only partially to the housing or surrounding structure around the perimeter. Preferably, the suspension connects the diaphragm along less than 80% of the perimeter. Preferably, the suspension connects the diaphragm along less than 50% of the perimeter. Preferably, the suspension connects the diaphragm along less than 20% of the perimeter.

[0173] In a second embodiment of any one of the previously described audio transducer aspects and their associated features, embodiments, and configurations, the audio transducer is an acoustoelectric transducer and further comprises a force transmission component configured to be acted upon by the diaphragm in use to produce electrical energy in response to movement of the diaphragm.

[0174] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm body having one or more main surfaces; a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and adjacent at least one of the major surfaces to resist compressive-tensile stresses experienced by the body during operation. diaphragm, and a hinge assembly configured, in use, to operably support the diaphragm about an axis of rotation; at least one major surface does not have any normal stress reinforcements in one or more peripheral edge regions of the major surface, the peripheral edge regions being located at or beyond a radius about the axis of rotation that is 80 percent of the total distance from the axis of rotation to the distal-most peripheral edge of the major surface; It can be said to consist of an audio transducer.

[0175] Preferably, the diaphragm body is substantially thick. Preferably, the diaphragm body has a maximum thickness that is at least 11% of the maximum length of the diaphragm body, and more preferably at least 14% of the maximum length of the diaphragm body.

[0176] Preferably, the diaphragm body has a maximum thickness that is at least 15% of the total distance from the axis of rotation to the distal-most peripheral region of the diaphragm, and more preferably, this maximum thickness is at least 20% of this total distance.

[0177] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm body having one or more main surfaces; a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and adjacent at least one of the major surfaces to resist compressive-tensile stresses experienced at or adjacent the surface of the body during operation; at least one internal stiffening member embedded in the body and oriented at an angle to the normal stress stiffener to resist and / or substantially reduce shear deformations experienced by the body during operation; a diaphragm comprising: a hinge assembly connected to the diaphragm for rotating the diaphragm, in use, about an associated axis of rotation; It can be said that it consists of an audio transducer equipped with

[0178] The hinge assembly may be directly connected to the diaphragm or indirectly connected by one or more intermediate components.

[0179] Preferably, one or more of the major surfaces are substantially planar.

[0180] Preferably, each of the at least one internal stiffening member is oriented substantially parallel to the sagittal plane of the diaphragm body. Preferably, each of the at least one internal stiffening member has a longitudinal axis that is substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the hinge assembly and / or substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the diaphragm body. Preferably, each of the at least one internal stiffening member extends between an opposite end of the diaphragm body at or near the axis of rotation.

[0181] Preferably, each of the at least one internal stiffening member comprises at least one panel extending laterally across a substantial portion of the thickness of the diaphragm body and longitudinally along a substantial portion of the length of the diaphragm body.

[0182] Preferably, each of the at least one internal stiffening member is rigidly connected to the hinge assembly, either directly or via at least one intermediate component.

[0183] The relay components may be made from a material having a Young's modulus greater than about 8 GPa, and more preferably greater than about 20 GPa.

[0184] Preferably, one or more relay components incorporate substantially planar sections oriented at an angle greater than about 30 degrees relative to the coronal plane of the diaphragm body and substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the diaphragm, transferring loads between the hinge mechanism and the internal stiffening member in a direction parallel to the coronal plane with minimal compliance.

[0185] In one embodiment, the electroacoustic transducer is, or is part of, an electroacoustic speaker that includes an excitation mechanism having force transmitting components that act on a diaphragm to cause the diaphragm to move in use.

[0186] Preferably, the electroacoustic speaker is configured in an audio device that uses two or more different audio channels through an arrangement of two or more electroacoustic speakers.

[0187] Preferably, each of the at least one internal reinforcing member is rigidly connected to a force transmission component, either directly or via at least one intermediate component.

[0188] Preferably, the normal stress stiffener comprises one or more normal stress stiffening members on either one of a pair of opposing main surfaces of the diaphragm body.

[0189] Preferably, one or more normal stress reinforcing members on either major surface are rigidly connected to a force transfer component, either directly or via one or more intermediate components.

[0190] Preferably, these one or more normal stress reinforcing members on either major surface are rigidly connected to the hinge assembly, either directly or via one or more intermediate components.

[0191] Preferably, any intermediate components facilitating a rigid connection between any one or more of the at least one internal stiffener and hinge assembly, the at least one internal stiffener and force transmission component, the one or more normal stress stiffeners and hinge assembly, and / or the one or more normal stress stiffeners and force transmission component are formed from a substantially rigid material such as steel or carbon fiber. Preferably, the intermediate components are not formed from a plastic material.

[0192] Preferably, the thickness of the diaphragm body decreases from the axis of rotation towards the opposite end of the diaphragm body, and preferably the thickness is tapered between the axis of rotation and the opposite end of the diaphragm body.

[0193] Preferably, the mass distribution of the normal stress stiffener is such that a relatively small mass is located at or near one or more regions of the diaphragm body at its end compared to the mass located in one or more regions near the axis of rotation.

[0194] Preferably, one or more regions of each major surface proximate the terminal end of the diaphragm body are free of normal stress stiffeners.

[0195] Preferably, the one or more regions are located adjacent to at least one internal reinforcing member.

[0196] Alternatively, or additionally, one or more regions of the relatively low mass normal stress stiffeners comprise normal stress stiffeners of reduced thickness relative to normal stress stiffeners located in one or more regions proximal to the axis of rotation.

[0197] Preferably, the diaphragm comprises no more than five internal stiffening members. Preferably, the diaphragm comprises four internal stiffening members.

[0198] Preferably, the normal stress stiffening members extend substantially longitudinally along a substantial portion of the overall length of the diaphragm body at or immediately adjacent each major surface of the diaphragm body.

[0199] Preferably, there are no supports and / or similar vertical stiffeners attached to the lateral outside of the diaphragm body.

[0200] Preferably, there are no supports and / or similar vertical stiffeners attached to the end faces of the diaphragm body. Preferably, there is no film or paint of any kind. If paint is present, it is preferably substantially thin and lightweight. Preferably, if the core material of the diaphragm body is expanded polystyrene foam or the like, this is mechanically cut rather than melted with, for example, a hot wire, since a hot wire would normally create a melt layer of greater density.

[0201] Preferably, the normal stress stiffeners terminate at or short of the ends of the diaphragm body on both major faces.

[0202] Alternatively, the normal stress stiffeners on one face may extend to the end of the diaphragm body and connect with normal stress stiffeners on the opposite major face of the diaphragm body.

[0203] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm body having one or more main surfaces; a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and adjacent at least one of the major surfaces to resist compressive-tensile stresses experienced at or adjacent the surface of the body during operation; at least one internal stiffening member embedded in the body and oriented at an angle to the normal stress stiffener to resist and / or substantially reduce shear deformations experienced by the body during operation; a diaphragm comprising: A hinge assembly comprising one or more thin-walled flexible hinge elements that operably support a diaphragm in use. It can be said that it consists of an audio transducer equipped with

[0204] Preferably, the audio transducer further comprises a transducer base structure, the hinge assembly rotatably connecting the diaphragm to the transducer base structure.

[0205] Preferably, the hinge assembly comprises at least one hinge connection, each hinge connection pivotally connecting the diaphragm to the transducer base structure to allow the diaphragm to rotate relative to the transducer base structure about an axis of rotation during operation, and the hinge connection comprises at least two resilient hinge elements rigidly coupled to the transducer base structure on one side and to the diaphragm on the opposite side and angled relative to each other, each hinge element being tightly coupled to both the transducer base structure and the diaphragm and having a substantial translational stiffness to resist compressive, tensile and / or shear deformation along and across it during operation, and a substantial flexibility to allow bending in response to forces normal to its section.

[0206] In one form, the audio transducer includes a diaphragm base frame for supporting the diaphragm, the diaphragm base frame being attached directly to one or both hinge elements of each hinge connection.

[0207] Preferably, the diaphragm base frame facilitates a rigid connection between the diaphragm and each hinge connection.

[0208] Preferably, the diaphragm is closely associated with each hinge connection, for example, the distance from the diaphragm to each hinge connection is less than half the maximum distance from the axis of rotation to the distal-most periphery of the diaphragm, and more preferably less than 1 / 3 of this maximum distance, and more preferably less than 1 / 4 of this maximum distance, and more preferably less than 1 / 8 of this maximum distance, and most preferably less than 1 / 16 of this maximum distance.

[0209] In some embodiments, each flexible hinge element of each hinge connection is substantially flexible in bending. Preferably, each hinge element is substantially rigid in torsion.

[0210] In an alternative embodiment, each flexible hinge element of each hinge connection is substantially torsionally flexible. Preferably, each flexible hinge element is substantially bendingly rigid.

[0211] In some embodiments, each hinge element has an approximately or substantially planar profile, for example in the form of a flat sheet.

[0212] In some embodiments, a pair of flexible hinge elements at each connection are joined or intersect along a common edge to form a generally L-shaped cross section. In some other configurations, a pair of flexible hinge elements at each hinge connection intersect along a central region to form an axis of rotation, with the hinge elements forming a generally X-shaped cross section, i.e., the hinge elements form a cross spring configuration. In some other configurations, the flexible hinge elements at each hinge connection are spaced apart and extend in different directions.

[0213] In one form, the axis of rotation is approximately collinear with the point where the hinge elements of each hinge connection intersect.

[0214] In some embodiments, each flexible hinge element of each hinge connection includes a lateral curvature along the longitudinal length of the element, such that the hinge element is slightly bent so that it can bend to a substantially planar position during operation.

[0215] In some embodiments, the thickness of one or both of the hinge elements at each hinge connection increases at or proximal to the end of the hinge element that is most distal from the diaphragm or transducer base structure.

[0216] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm body having one or more main surfaces; a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and adjacent at least one of the major surfaces to resist compressive-tensile stresses experienced at or adjacent the surface of the body during operation; at least one internal stiffening member embedded in the body and oriented at an angle to the normal stress stiffener to resist and / or substantially reduce shear deformations experienced by the body during operation; A diaphragm having a hinge system operably supporting the diaphragm and having one or more hinge connections, each hinge connection comprising a first hinge element and a contact member, the contact member providing a contact surface; In use, each hinge connection is configured to allow the hinge element to move relative to the contact member; It can be said to consist of an audio transducer.

[0217] Preferably, for each hinge connection, the contact member has a contact surface, and each hinge connection is configured to allow the hinge element to move relative to the associated contact member while maintaining substantially stable physical contact with the contact surface during operation, and the hinge assembly biases the hinge element towards the contact surface.

[0218] Preferably, the audio transducer further comprises a transducer base structure, and the hinge assembly rotatably connects the diaphragm to the transducer base structure to enable the diaphragm to rotate about or approximately an axis of rotation of the hinge assembly during operation. Preferably, the diaphragm vibrates about the axis of rotation during operation.

[0219] Preferably, the substantially stable physical contact has a substantially stable force.

[0220] Preferably, the hinge assembly is configured to apply a biasing force to the hinge element of each connection in a compliant manner towards the associated contact surface.

[0221] Preferably, the hinge assembly further comprises a biasing mechanism, the hinge element being biased towards the contact surface by the biasing mechanism.

[0222] In one form, during operation, the biasing mechanism applies a biasing force at the contact area between the respective hinge element and the associated contact member in a direction less than 25 degrees, or less than 10 degrees, or less than 5 degrees relative to an axis perpendicular to the contact surface.

[0223] Preferably, the biasing mechanism applies a biasing force in operation at the contact area between each hinge element and the associated contact member in a direction substantially perpendicular to the contact surface.

[0224] Preferably, the biasing mechanism is substantially compliant. Preferably, the biasing mechanism is substantially compliant in a direction substantially perpendicular to the contact surface at the contact area between the respective hinge element and the associated contact member during operation.

[0225] Preferably, contact between the hinge element and the contact member substantially rigidly constrains the hinge element against relative translational movement with respect to the contact member in a direction normal to the contact surface at the contact area during operation.

[0226] In one embodiment, the biasing mechanism is separate from the structure that rigidly constrains the hinge elements against translational movement relative to the contact members in a direction perpendicular to the contact surface at the contact area between each hinge element and its associated contact member.

[0227] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: A diaphragm body having one or more main surfaces, the maximum thickness of which is greater than 11% of the maximum length of the body. a diaphragm having a hinge assembly connected to the diaphragm to rotate the diaphragm, in use, about an associated axis of rotation; It can be said to consist of an audio transducer, which is an electroacoustic speaker designed for audio within approximately 10 cm of the user's ear.

[0228] In another aspect, the invention generally relates to an audio device configured for use typically near or in direct association with a user's ear or head, comprising: A diaphragm body having one or more major surfaces, the maximum thickness of the diaphragm body being greater than 11% of the maximum length of the body. a diaphragm having a hinge system connected to the diaphragm and which rotates the diaphragm about an associated axis of rotation in use; The audio device may be said to comprise an audio device including at least one audio transducer.

[0229] Preferably, the audio transducer is an electroacoustic speaker, and the audio device is adapted for audio within about 10 cm of the user's ear.

[0230] Preferably, the audio device further comprises a housing for accommodating the at least one audio transducer therein.

[0231] Preferably, the diaphragm body of the audio transducer has an outer periphery that is at least partially physically free from connection with the interior of the housing along at least a portion of its periphery.

[0232] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm body having one or more major surfaces, the maximum thickness of the diaphragm body being greater than 11% of the maximum length of the body; a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and connected near at least one of the major surfaces to resist compressive-tensile stresses experienced at or near the surface of the body during operation; At least one major surface does not have any normal stress stiffeners in one or more peripheral edge regions, each peripheral edge region being located at or beyond a radius centered at the center of mass of the diaphragm that is 50 percent of the total distance from the center of mass to the distal-most peripheral edge of the major surface. diaphragm, and a housing including an enclosure and / or a baffle for accommodating the diaphragm; the diaphragm having an outer periphery that is at least partially not physically coupled to the interior of the housing; It can be said to consist of an audio transducer.

[0233] Preferably, the diaphragm has one or more peripheral regions that are not physically connected to the interior of the housing. Preferably, the periphery is significantly physically disconnected, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 20%, and more preferably at least 30%, of the length or circumference of the periphery. More preferably, the periphery is substantially physically disconnected, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 50%, and more preferably at least 80%, of the length or circumference of the periphery. Most preferably, the periphery is approximately completely free of physical connection, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise approximately the entire length or circumference of the periphery.

[0234] Preferably, there is a small air gap between one or more peripheral regions of the diaphragm periphery that are not physically connected to the interior of the housing and the interior of the housing.

[0235] Preferably, the width of the air gap defined by the distance between the peripheral edge region of the diaphragm and the housing is less than 1 / 10, more preferably less than 1 / 20, of the shortest length along a major surface of the diaphragm body.

[0236] Preferably, the width of the air gap is less than 1 / 20 of the length of the diaphragm body, and more preferably, the width of the air gap is less than 1 mm.

[0237] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm body constructed from a core material having one or more major surfaces, the maximum thickness of the diaphragm body being greater than 11% of the maximum length of the body; at least one internal reinforcing member embedded in the core material and oriented at an angle relative to one or more major surfaces to resist and / or substantially reduce shear deformations experienced by the core material during operation; A diaphragm having a force transmitting component that acts on the diaphragm to cause movement of the diaphragm in use; It can be said to consist of an audio transducer, which is an electroacoustic speaker designed for audio within approximately 10 cm of the user's ear.

[0238] In another aspect, the present invention generally relates to an audio device configured for use typically near or in direct association with a user's ear or head, comprising: a diaphragm body constructed from a core material having one or more major surfaces, the maximum thickness of the diaphragm body being greater than 11% of the maximum length of the body; at least one internal reinforcing member embedded in the core material and oriented at an angle relative to one or more major surfaces to resist and / or substantially reduce shear deformations experienced by the core material during operation; A diaphragm having a force transmitting component that acts on the diaphragm to move it in use The audio device may be said to comprise an audio device including at least one audio transducer.

[0239] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm body having one or more main surfaces; a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and adjacent at least one of said major surfaces to resist compressive-tensile stresses experienced at or adjacent this surface of the body during operation; at least one internal stiffening member embedded in the body and oriented at an angle to the normal stress stiffener to resist and / or substantially reduce shear deformations experienced by the body during operation; a diaphragm having Transducer base structure, and a hinge assembly; a diaphragm operably supported by a hinge assembly for rotation about an approximate axis of rotation relative to the transducer base structure; the hinge assembly comprising one or more portions configured to facilitate movement of the diaphragm and contributing significantly to resisting translational displacement of the diaphragm relative to the transducer base structure, the hinge portion having a Young's modulus greater than about 8 GPa, and more preferably greater than about 20 GPa; It can be said to consist of an audio transducer.

[0240] Preferably, all parts of the hinge assembly which operably support the diaphragm in use have a Young's modulus of greater than about 8 GPa, and more preferably greater than about 20 GPa.

[0241] Preferably, all parts of the hinge assembly that are configured to facilitate movement of the diaphragm and that contribute significantly to resisting translational displacement of the diaphragm relative to the transducer base structure have a Young's modulus greater than 0.1 GPa.

[0242] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm having a diaphragm body that remains substantially rigid during operation; a hinge system configured, in use, to operably support the diaphragm, the hinge system comprising a hinge assembly having one or more hinge connections, each hinge connection comprising a hinge element and a contact member, the contact member having a contact surface; In operation, each hinge connection is configured to allow the hinge element to move relative to the associated contact member while maintaining substantially stable physical contact with the contact surface, and the hinge assembly biases the hinge element toward the contact surface; It can be said to consist of an audio transducer.

[0243] Preferably, the audio transducer further comprises a transducer base structure, and the hinge assembly rotatably connects the diaphragm to the transducer base structure to enable the diaphragm to rotate about or approximately an axis of rotation of the hinge assembly during operation. Preferably, the diaphragm vibrates about the axis of rotation during operation.

[0244] Preferably, the substantially stable physical contact has a substantially stable force.

[0245] Preferably, the hinge assembly is configured to apply a biasing force to the hinge element of each connection in a compliant manner towards the associated contact surface.

[0246] Preferably, the diaphragm has a substantially rigid diaphragm body.

[0247] Preferably, the hinge assembly further comprises a biasing mechanism, the hinge element being biased towards the contact surface by the biasing mechanism.

[0248] In one form, during operation, the biasing mechanism applies a biasing force at the contact area between the respective hinge element and the associated contact member in a direction less than 25 degrees, or less than 10 degrees, or less than 5 degrees relative to an axis perpendicular to the contact surface.

[0249] Preferably, the biasing mechanism applies a biasing force in operation at the contact area between each hinge element and the associated contact member in a direction substantially perpendicular to the contact surface.

[0250] Preferably, the biasing mechanism is substantially compliant. Preferably, the biasing mechanism is substantially compliant in a direction substantially perpendicular to the contact surface at the contact area between the respective hinge element and the associated contact member during operation.

[0251] Preferably, the biasing mechanism is substantially compliant in that during operation it applies a biasing force at the contact area between the respective hinge element and the associated contact member in a direction substantially normal to the contact surface as opposed to the biasing displacement.

[0252] Preferably, the biasing mechanism is substantially compliant in that, in operation, in use, at the contact area between each hinge element and the associated contact member, the biasing force does not change significantly when the hinge element moves slightly in a direction substantially perpendicular to the contact surface.

[0253] Preferably, contact between the hinge element and the contact member substantially rigidly constrains the hinge element against relative translational movement with respect to the contact member in a direction normal to the contact surface at the contact area during operation.

[0254] In one embodiment, the biasing mechanism is separate from the structure that rigidly constrains the hinge elements against translational movement relative to the contact members in a direction perpendicular to the contact surface at the contact area between each hinge element and its associated contact member.

[0255] In one embodiment, the diaphragm includes a biasing mechanism.

[0256] Preferably, when an additional force is applied to the hinge element, a vector representing the resultant force passes through the physical contact position of the hinge element and the contact surface, and the resultant force is small compared to the biasing force, stable physical contact between the hinge element and the contact member firmly constrains the contact portion of the hinge element against translational movement relative to the transducer base structure, and the hinge element contacts the contact member at the contact point in a direction perpendicular to the contact surface.

[0257] Preferably, when an additional force is applied to the hinge element, a vector representing the resultant force passes through the physical contact location of the hinge element and the contact surface, and the resultant force is small compared to the biasing force, the stable physical contact between the hinge element and the contact member effectively rigidly restrains the contact portion of the hinge element at the contact point against any translational movement relative to the transducer base structure.

[0258] Preferably, the biasing mechanism is sufficiently compliant so that: The diaphragm is in a neutral position during operation. an additional force is applied to the hinge element from the contact member in a direction normal to the contact surface through the area where the hinge element contacts the contact surface; When this additional force is relatively small compared to the biasing force, such that separation between the hinge element and the contact member does not occur, The resulting change in the reaction force applied by the contact member to the hinge element is greater than the resulting change in the force applied by the biasing mechanism.

[0259] Preferably, this resulting change is at least 4-fold, more preferably at least 8-fold, and most preferably at least 20-fold greater.

[0260] Preferably, the compliance of the biasing structure, relative to the contact members, is associated with and excludes compliance at the contact areas between non-jointed components within the biasing mechanism.

[0261] Preferably, the diaphragm body remains in a substantially rigid configuration across the FRO of the transducer during operation.

[0262] Preferably, the diaphragm is rigidly connected to the hinge assembly.

[0263] Preferably, the diaphragm remains in a substantially rigid configuration across the FRO of the transducer during operation.

[0264] In some embodiments, the diaphragm comprises a single diaphragm body. In alternative embodiments, the diaphragm comprises multiple diaphragm bodies.

[0265] Preferably, the contact between the hinge element and the contact member rigidly constrains the hinge element against any translational movement relative to the contact member.

[0266] Preferably, the axis of rotation coincides with the contact area between the hinge element and the contact surface of the respective hinge connection.

[0267] In one configuration, one or more components of the hinge assembly are rigidly connected to the transducer base structure.

[0268] Preferably, the hinge element is rigidly connected as part of the diaphragm.

[0269] Preferably, the contact members are rigidly coupled as part of the transducer base structure.

[0270] Preferably, one of the hinge element and the contact member is rigidly connected as part of the diaphragm, and the other is rigidly connected as part of the transducer base structure.

[0271] Preferably, at the contact area between the contact surface associated with each hinge element, one of the hinge element and the contact member is rigidly and effectively connected to the diaphragm, and the other is rigidly and effectively connected to the transducer base structure.

[0272] In one embodiment, the substantially stable physical contact has a substantially stable force, where at a contact area between each hinge element and an associated contact surface, one of the hinge element and the contact member is rigidly and effectively coupled to the diaphragm and the other is rigidly and effectively coupled to the transducer base structure. Preferably, the hinge assembly is configured to apply a compliant biasing force to the hinge element of each connection towards the associated contact surface. Preferably, the hinge assembly is configured to apply a compliant biasing force to the hinge element of each connection towards the associated contact surface.

[0273] Preferably, the diaphragm body has a maximum thickness that is greater than 15% of the length from the axis of rotation to the opposite most distal end of the diaphragm, and more preferably greater than 20%.

[0274] Preferably, the diaphragm body is in close proximity to or in contact with the contact surface.

[0275] Preferably, the distance from the diaphragm body to the contact surface is less than half the total distance from the axis of rotation to the farthest periphery of the diaphragm body, more preferably less than 1 / 4 of this total distance, more preferably less than 1 / 8 of this total distance, and most preferably less than 1 / 16 of this total distance.

[0276] Preferably, the area of ​​the contact member of each hinge connection immediately adjacent the contact surface is effectively rigidly connected to the transducer base structure at all times during normal operation.

[0277] Preferably, the contact area between the contact surface of each hinge connection and the hinge element is effectively substantially immobile in terms of translational displacement relative to both the diaphragm and the transducer base structure at all times during normal operation.

[0278] Preferably, one of the diaphragm and the transducer base structure is effectively rigidly connected to at least a portion of the hinge element of the respective hinge connection in the immediate vicinity of the contact area, and the other of the diaphragm and the transducer base structure is effectively rigidly connected to at least a portion of the contact member of the respective hinge connection in the immediate vicinity of the contact area.

[0279] Preferably, the contact member or hinge element of each hinge connection having the smaller radius of contact surface in its cross-sectional profile in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation is less than 30%, more preferably less than 20%, and most preferably less than 10% of the maximum length across all components that are effectively rigidly connected to the localized portion of the components immediately adjacent the contact area in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation from the contact area.

[0280] Preferably, the contact member or hinge element of each hinge connection has a smaller radius of contact surface in a cross-sectional profile in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation: the largest dimension of the portion of the contact member immediately adjacent the point of contact with the hinge assembly and of all components that are effectively rigidly connected; The largest dimension between the portion of the hinge element immediately adjacent the point of contact with the contact member and all components that are effectively rigidly connected is: The smaller one is less than 30% of the distance perpendicular to the axis of rotation, more preferably less than 20%, and most preferably less than 10%.

[0281] Preferably, the hinge elements of each hinge connection have a radius at the contact surface that is less than 30%, more preferably less than 20%, and most preferably less than 10% of the length from the contact area to the end of the diaphragm and / or the length of the diaphragm body in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation. Alternatively, the contact members of each hinge connection have a radius at the contact surface that is less than 30%, more preferably less than 20%, and most preferably less than 10% of the length from the contact area to the end of the transducer base structure and / or the length of the transducer base structure in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

[0282] In some configurations, the hinge assembly includes a single hinge connection to rotatably connect the diaphragm to the transducer base structure, hi some configurations, the hinge assembly includes multiple hinge connections, for example, two hinge connections, located on the left and right sides of the diaphragm.

[0283] Preferably, the hinge elements are embedded in or attached to the end faces of the diaphragm, and are configured to rotate or roll on the contact surface while maintaining stable physical contact with the contact surface, thereby enabling movement of the diaphragm.

[0284] Preferably, the hinge connection is configured to allow the hinge element to move substantially rotationally relative to the contact member.

[0285] Preferably, the hinge elements are configured to insignificantly slide and roll relative to the contact members during operation.

[0286] Preferably, the hinge elements are configured to roll relative to the contact members rather than slide during operation.

[0287] Alternatively, the hinge elements are configured to rub or twist at the contact surface during operation.

[0288] Preferably, the hinge assembly is configured so that contact between the hinge element and the contact member rigidly constrains a point on the hinge element located at or in the immediate vicinity of the contact area against any translational movement relative to the contact member.

[0289] Preferably, one of the hinge element and the contact member comprises a contact surface that is convexly curved at the contact region, at least in cross-sectional profile along a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

[0290] Preferably, the other of the hinge element and the contact member comprises a contact surface that is concavely curved at least in cross-sectional profile along a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation at the contact region.

[0291] Preferably, one of the hinge element or the contact member comprises a contact surface having one or more raised portions or protrusions configured to prevent the other of the hinge element or contact member from moving beyond the raised portions or protrusions when an external force is exerted or applied to the audio transducer.

[0292] In one form, the hinge elements include convexly curved contact surfaces and the contact members include concavely curved contact surfaces, hi an alternative form, the hinge elements include concavely curved contact surfaces and the contact members include convexly curved contact surfaces.

[0293] In one form, the hinge element has an at least partially concave or convex cross-sectional profile when viewed in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation, where it makes physical contact with the contact surface.

[0294] In one form, the hinge element has an at least partially convex cross-sectional profile when viewed in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation, and the shape of the contact surface is substantially flat in the same plane, or vice versa.

[0295] In another form, the hinge element has an at least partially concave cross-sectional profile when viewed in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation, and the contact surface has a convex cross-sectional profile in the plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation, where physical contact is made, and the hinge element and contact surface are configured to rock or roll relative to each other along the concave and convex surfaces in use.

[0296] In another form, the hinge elements have at least a partially convex cross-sectional profile when viewed in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation, and the contact surfaces have a convex cross-sectional profile in the plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation, allowing the hinge elements and contact surfaces to rock or roll relative to each other along these planes in use.

[0297] In another form, a first element of the hinge element or contact member has a contact portion that is convexly curved, at least in cross-sectional profile, along a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation, and a second element of the other of the hinge element or contact member has a contact surface that is substantially planar or has a central region with a substantially large radius, and is sufficiently wide so that during normal operation the first element is centered and does not move substantially beyond the substantially planar central region, and has one or more raised portions configured to re-center the first element toward the substantially central region when viewed in cross-sectional profile in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation when an external force is exerted.

[0298] The raised portion may be a raised edge portion.

[0299] Alternatively, the central region is concave so as to gradually re-center the first element during normal operation or when an external force is exerted.

[0300] Preferably, the first element is a hinge element and the second element is a contact member.

[0301] Preferably, the hinge element and the contact surface that has a convexly curved contact surface with a relatively small radius of curvature in a cross-sectional profile along a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation has a radius r in meters that satisfies the following relationship:

number

number

[0302] In one form, the biasing mechanism uses a magnetic mechanism or structure to bias or urge the hinge element toward the contact surface of the contact member.

[0303] Preferably, the hinge element comprises or consists of a magnetic element or material.

[0304] Preferably, the magnetic element or material is incorporated into the diaphragm.

[0305] Preferably, the magnetic element or body is a ferromagnetic steel shaft connected to or otherwise embedded within the diaphragm at an end face of the diaphragm body.

[0306] Preferably, the shaft has a substantially cylindrical profile.

[0307] Preferably, the roughly cylindrical profile of the shaft is between approximately 1 and 10 mm in diameter.

[0308] In one form, the portion of the shaft that makes physical contact with the contact surface has a convex profile with a radius of between about 0.05 mm and 0.15 mm.

[0309] In some embodiments, the biasing mechanism may also comprise a first magnetic element in contact with or firmly coupled to the hinge element, and a second magnetic element, wherein the magnetic force between the first and second magnetic elements biases or urges the hinge element towards the contact surface so as to maintain stable physical contact between the hinge element and the contact surface during use.

[0310] The first magnetic element may be a ferrofluid.

[0311] The first magnetic element may be a ferrofluid disposed near an end of the diaphragm body.

[0312] The second magnetic element may be a permanent magnet or an electromagnet.

[0313] Alternatively, the second magnetic element may be a ferromagnetic steel part connected to or embedded in the contact surface of the contact member.

[0314] Preferably, the contact member is disposed between the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element.

[0315] In some embodiments, the biasing mechanism comprises a mechanical mechanism that biases or urges the hinge element toward the contact surface of the contact member.

[0316] In one form, the biasing mechanism comprises a resilient element or member that biases or urges the hinge element towards the contact surface.

[0317] Preferably, the resilient element is a steel leaf spring.

[0318] Alternatively, or additionally, the biasing mechanism may comprise a tensioned rubber band, a compressed rubber block, and a ferrofluid attracted by a magnet.

[0319] Preferably, the hinge connection also includes a securing structure for positioning the hinge element in a desired operating and physical position relative to the contact members.

[0320] In one form, the locking structure is a mechanical locking assembly comprising a locking member, such as a pin, connected to each end of the hinge element, and one or more strings, each having one end connected to the locking member and another end connected to the contact member, with intermediate portions of the strings configured to curve around the cross section of the hinge element, thereby maintaining the hinge element in a desired actuation and physical position relative to the contact member.

[0321] In one form, the securing structure is a mechanical securing assembly comprising one or more thin flexible elements having one end secured directly or indirectly to an end of the hinge element and another end connected to the contact member, with an intermediate portion of the string configured to curve around the cross section of the hinge element or a component rigidly attached to the hinge element, thereby maintaining the hinge element in a desired actuation and physical position relative to the contact member.

[0322] Preferably, the thin, flexible element is a string, most preferably a multi-strand string.

[0323] Preferably, the thin flexible element exhibits little creep.

[0324] Preferably, the thin flexible element exhibits high abrasion resistance.

[0325] Preferably, the thin flexible element is an aromatic polyester fiber such as Vectran™ fiber.

[0326] In one form, the securing structure is a mechanical securing assembly comprising one or more strings having one end secured directly or indirectly to an end of the hinge element and another end connected to the contact member, with an intermediate portion of the string configured to curve around the more convex cross section of either the hinge element or the contact member in side profile at the point of contact, thereby maintaining the hinge element in a desired actuation and physical position relative to the contact member.

[0327] Preferably, the radius around which the string curves is substantially the same side profile as the contact surface of the same component.

[0328] Preferably, the radius around which the string curves is slightly smaller at all locations than the side profile of the contact surface of the same component by half the thickness of the string at the same location.

[0329] In one form, the locking structure is a mechanical locking assembly comprising a flexible element connecting one end to the hinge element and another end to the contact member, disposed near and parallel to the axis of rotation of the hinge element relative to the contact member, sufficiently thin-walled to be resilient in terms of torsion along its length, and sufficiently wide in a direction perpendicular to the hinge axis and parallel to the contact surface, such that the locking structure is relatively non-compliant in terms of translational movement of one end in the same direction, thereby restricting sliding of the hinge element relative to the contact surface in the same direction.

[0330] Preferably, the thin flexible element is a leaf spring.

[0331] Preferably, the thin flexible element is a thin solid strip, such as a metal shim.

[0332] Preferably, the flexible element is made from a material that is resistant to fatigue and creep, such as steel or titanium.

[0333] Preferably, the hinge assembly, in use, urges the hinge elements towards the contact surfaces of the contact members using a biasing force that is substantially constant.

[0334] Preferably, the hinge assembly biases the hinge element toward the contact surface of the contact member using a biasing force greater than the force of gravity acting on the diaphragm, and more preferably 1.5 times greater than the force of gravity acting on the diaphragm.

[0335] Preferably, the biasing force is substantially greater than the maximum excitation force of the diaphragm.

[0336] Preferably, the biasing force is greater than 1.5 times, more preferably greater than 2.5 times, and even more preferably greater than 4 times the maximum excitation force experienced during normal operation of the transducer.

[0337] Preferably, during normal operation of the transducer, when maximum excitation is applied to the diaphragm, the hinge assembly urges the hinge elements towards the contact surfaces of the contact members with a sufficiently large biasing force so that substantially non-sliding contact is maintained between the hinge elements and the contact surfaces.

[0338] Preferably, during normal operation of the transducer, when maximum excitation is applied to the diaphragm, the bias force at a particular hinge connection is three times, six times, or ten times greater than the component of the reaction force acting in a direction that causes displacement between the hinge element and the contact surface.

[0339] Preferably, at least 30%, more preferably at least 50%, and most preferably at least 70% of the contact force between the hinge element and the contact member is provided by the biasing mechanism.

[0340] Preferably, the biasing mechanism is sufficiently compliant so that during normal operation, as the diaphragm moves back and forth through its full range of motion, the biasing force exerted by the biasing mechanism does not vary by more than 200%, and more preferably 150%, and more preferably 100%, of the average force when the transducer is at rest.

[0341] Preferably, the biasing structure is sufficiently compliant so that the hinge connection is significantly asymmetric in that a biasing mechanism that applies a biasing force to the hinge elements in one direction is adapted compliantly to the resulting reaction force.

[0342] Preferably, the reaction force is applied in the form of a substantially constant displacement.

[0343] Preferably, the reaction force is provided by a relatively non-compliant portion of the contact member connecting the contact surface to the main body of the contact member.

[0344] Preferably, the hinge element is rigidly connected to the diaphragm body, and the area of ​​the hinge element immediately adjacent the contact surface and the connection between this area and the rest of the diaphragm is non-compliant compared to the biasing mechanism.

[0345] In some embodiments, the total stiffness k of the biasing mechanism acting on the hinge element (where "k" is defined under Hooke's Law), the rotational inertia of the portion of the diaphragm supported by the contact surface about its axis of rotation, and the fundamental resonant frequency of the diaphragm in Hz(f) satisfy the following equation: k <C×10,000×(2πf) 2 ×I where C is a constant that is preferably 200, also more preferably 130, also more preferably 100, also more preferably 60, also more preferably 40, also more preferably 20, and most preferably 10.

[0346] In some embodiments, the biasing mechanism is sufficiently compliant so that, during normal operation, when the diaphragm is at its equilibrium displacement, if two small, equal and opposite forces are applied to a pair of contact surfaces, one force on each surface, perpendicular to a direction that would separate the surfaces, there will be a small (preferably infinitesimal) increase in force (dF) in Newtons that exceeds the force required to simply achieve the initial separation, plus the resulting change in separation at those surfaces (dx) in meters that results from deformation of other parts of the driver and is associated with, and exclusive of compliance at, the local contact area between the non-bonded components, plus the rotational inertia (I) of the portion of the diaphragm supported by the contact surfaces about its axis of rotation. S ) and the fundamental resonant frequency (f) of the diaphragm in Hz, satisfy the following relationship:

number

[0347] Preferably, a portion of the biasing mechanism is rigidly coupled to the transducer base mechanism.

[0348] Alternatively, or additionally, the diaphragm comprises a biasing mechanism.

[0349] In some embodiments, during the application of a constant excitation force to displace the diaphragm to any position within its normal range of motion, the total force (F) in Newtons urging each hinge element in a number n of this type of hinge connection in the hinge assembly towards its associated contact surface is n ) average (ΣF n / n) always satisfies the following relationship:

number

[0350] In some embodiments, the biasing mechanism may be configured to apply an average (ΣF) of all forces in Newtons (Fn) that bias each hinge element towards its associated contact surface within a number n of such hinge connections within the hinge assembly. n / n) which, when a constant excitation force is applied to displace the diaphragm to any position within its normal range of motion, always satisfies the following relationship:

number

[0351] In some embodiments, the biasing mechanism applies a resultant force F that biases the hinge element against the contact member, the resultant force F satisfying the following relationship: F>D×(2πf l ) 2 ×I s Here I S (Unit: kg.m 2 ) is the rotational inertia of the part of the diaphragm supported by the hinge element about the axis of rotation, f l where (in Hz) is the lower limit of FRO, and D is a constant preferably equal to 5, more preferably equal to 15, more preferably equal to 30, more preferably equal to 40, more preferably equal to 50, more preferably equal to 60, and most preferably equal to 70.

[0352] Preferably, during normal operation, this relationship is always satisfied at all angles of rotation of the hinge element relative to the contact member.

[0353] Preferably, the hinge assembly further comprises a restoring mechanism for restoring the diaphragm to a desired neutral rotational position when no excitation force is applied to the diaphragm.

[0354] In one form, the restoring mechanism comprises a torsion bar attached to the end of the diaphragm body, in this configuration the torsion bar having a mid-section that twists and flexes and end sections that connect to the diaphragm and the transducer base structure.

[0355] Preferably, at least one end of these sections provides translational compliance along the major axis of the torsion bar.

[0356] Preferably, one, and more preferably both, of the end sections incorporate rotational flexibility in a direction perpendicular to the length of the mid-section.

[0357] Preferably, the translational and rotational flexibility is provided by one or more substantially planar, thin walls at one or both ends of the torsion bar, the planes of which are oriented substantially perpendicular to the major axis of the torsion bar.

[0358] Preferably, both end sections are relatively non-compliant with respect to translational movement in a direction perpendicular to the major axis of the torsion bar.

[0359] In some embodiments, the audio transducer further comprises an excitation mechanism including a coil and a conductive wire coupled to the coil, the conductive wire being attached to a surface of the mid-section of the torsion bar.

[0360] Preferably, this wire extends parallel to the torsion bar and is attached near the axis about which the torsion bar rotates during normal operation of the transducer.

[0361] In another form, the restoring mechanism comprises a compliant element, such as silicone or rubber, positioned near the axis of rotation.

[0362] Preferably, the compliant element comprises a narrow mid-section and end sections with widened areas to aid in a stable connection.

[0363] In another form, some or all of the restoring force is provided within the hinge connection through the geometry of the contact surfaces and the location, direction and strength of the biasing force applied by the biasing structure.

[0364] In another form, some of this centering force is provided by a magnetic element.

[0365] In one form, one or more components of the hinge assembly are made from a material having a Young's modulus greater than 6 GPa, and more preferably greater than 10 GPa.

[0366] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm having a diaphragm body that remains substantially rigid during operation; a hinge system configured, in use, to operably support the diaphragm and comprising a hinge assembly having one or more hinge connections, each hinge connection comprising a hinge element and a contact member, the contact member having a contact surface; In operation, each hinge connection is configured to allow the hinge element to move relative to the associated contact member while maintaining substantially stable physical contact with the contact surface, and the hinge assembly biases the hinge element toward the contact surface; At least a portion of both the hinge element and the contact member in the area adjacent the contact surface is made from a rigid material; It can be said to consist of an audio transducer.

[0367] In one embodiment, the substantially stable physical contact has a substantially stable force, where at a contact area between each hinge element and an associated contact surface, one of the hinge element and the contact member is rigidly and effectively coupled to the diaphragm and the other is rigidly and effectively coupled to the transducer base structure. Preferably, the hinge assembly is configured to apply a compliant biasing force to the hinge element of each connection towards the associated contact surface. Preferably, the hinge assembly is configured to apply a compliant biasing force to the hinge element of each connection towards the associated contact surface.

[0368] Preferably, in the thirty-seventh or thirty-eighth aspect, the portions of both the hinge element and the contact member in the area adjacent the contact surface are made from a material having a Young's modulus greater than 6 GPa, more preferably greater than 10 GPa.

[0369] Preferably, there is at least one path connecting the diaphragm body to the base structure and consisting of substantially rigid components, so that in the immediate vicinity of where one rigid component contacts another component without being rigidly connected, all materials have a Young's modulus greater than 6 GPa, and more preferably greater than 10 GPa.

[0370] More preferably, the hinge elements and contact members are made from materials having a Young's modulus greater than 6 GPa, and even more preferably greater than 10 GPa, such as, but not limited to, aluminum, steel, titanium, tungsten, ceramics, and the like.

[0371] Preferably, the hinge elements and / or contact surfaces are provided with a thin coating, such as a ceramic coating or an anodized coating.

[0372] Preferably, either or both of the surfaces of the hinge elements at the contact locations or the contact surfaces are constructed from a non-metallic material.

[0373] Preferably, both the hinge elements and the contact surfaces at the contact locations are constructed from non-metallic materials.

[0374] Preferably, both the hinge elements and the contact surfaces at the contact locations are constructed from corrosion resistant materials.

[0375] Preferably, both the hinge elements and the contact surfaces at the contact locations are constructed from materials that are resistant to fretting-related corrosion.

[0376] Preferably, the hinge element rolls relative to the contact surface about an axis that is substantially collinear with the axis of rotation of the diaphragm.

[0377] Preferably, the hinge assembly is configured to facilitate movement of the diaphragm in one degree of freedom.

[0378] In one configuration, the hinge assembly rigidly constrains the diaphragm against translational movement in at least two directions / along at least two substantially orthogonal axes.

[0379] In one configuration, the hinge assembly allows for diaphragm movement that consists of a combination of translational and rotational motion.

[0380] In a preferred configuration, the hinge assembly allows for rotational movement of the diaphragm substantially about a single axis.

[0381] Preferably, the wall thickness of the hinge element is greater than 1 / 8, 1 / 4 or 1 / 2 of the radius of the contact surface of the hinge element and the contact member at the contact location, and most preferably greater than that radius of the contact surface having the more convex side profile.

[0382] Preferably, the wall thickness of the contact member is greater than 1 / 8, 1 / 4 or 1 / 2 of the radius of the contact surface of the hinge element and contact member at the contact position which has the more convex side profile, and most preferably greater than that radius.

[0383] Preferably, there is at least one substantially non-compliant path by which translational loads can pass from the diaphragm to the transducer base structure via the hinge connection.

[0384] Preferably, the diaphragm incorporates and is rigidly connected to the force transmission components of the electrical and motion conversion mechanism.

[0385] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm having a diaphragm body that remains substantially rigid during operation; an electrical and / or motion transducing mechanism having a force transmission component, the diaphragm incorporating the force transmission component and rigidly connected to the force transmission component; a hinge system configured, in use, to operably support the diaphragm and comprising a hinge assembly having one or more hinge connections, each hinge connection comprising a hinge element and a contact member, the contact member having a contact surface; In operation, each hinge connection is configured to allow the hinge element to move relative to the associated contact member while maintaining substantially stable physical contact with the contact surface, and the hinge assembly biases the hinge element toward the contact surface; It can be said to consist of an audio transducer.

[0386] In one embodiment, the substantially stable physical contact has a substantially stable force, where at a contact area between each hinge element and an associated contact surface, one of the hinge element and the contact member is rigidly and effectively coupled to the diaphragm and the other is rigidly and effectively coupled to the transducer base structure. Preferably, the hinge assembly is configured to apply a compliant biasing force to the hinge element of each connection towards the associated contact surface. Preferably, the hinge assembly is configured to apply a compliant biasing force to the hinge element of each connection towards the associated contact surface.

[0387] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm having a diaphragm body that remains substantially rigid during operation and has a maximum thickness that is greater than about 11% of the maximum length of the diaphragm body; a hinge system configured, in use, to operably support the diaphragm and comprising a hinge assembly having one or more hinge connections, each hinge connection comprising a hinge element and a contact member, the contact member having a contact surface; In operation, each hinge connection is configured to allow the hinge element to move relative to the associated contact member while maintaining substantially stable physical contact with the contact surface, and the hinge assembly biases the hinge element toward the contact surface; It can be said to consist of an audio transducer.

[0388] In any one of the above aspects relating to an audio transducer including a hinge system, in one form the hinge assembly includes a pair of hinge connections located on either side of the width of the diaphragm.

[0389] Alternatively, the hinge assembly comprises three or more hinge connections, with at least one pair of hinge connections located on either side of the width of the diaphragm.

[0390] In one form, the plurality of hinge assemblies are configured to operably support the diaphragm during operation.

[0391] Preferably, the audio transducer further comprises a diaphragm suspension having at least one hinge assembly, the diaphragm suspension configured to operably support the diaphragm during operation.

[0392] Preferably, the diaphragm suspension comprises a single hinge assembly to allow movement of the diaphragm assembly.

[0393] Alternatively, the diaphragm suspension comprises two or more hinge assemblies.

[0394] #409 In one form, the diaphragm suspension comprises a four-bar linkage with hinge assemblies located at each corner of the four-bar linkage.

[0395] Preferably, each diaphragm is connected to no more than two hinge connections, each having a significantly different axis of rotation.

[0396] In one configuration, the hinge elements are biased or urged towards the contact surface by a magnetic force.

[0397] In one configuration, the hinge element is a ferromagnetic steel shaft attached to or embedded within or along an end surface of the diaphragm body, and the hinge connection comprises a magnet that attracts the hinge element toward the contact surface.

[0398] In one configuration, the hinge elements are biased or urged towards the contact surface by a mechanical biasing mechanism.

[0399] In one form of construction, the hinge element is a diaphragm base frame that is attached to or embedded in or along an edge surface of the diaphragm body.

[0400] The mechanical biasing structure may comprise a pretensioned spring member.

[0401] Preferably, the biasing force applied to the hinge element is applied at an edge that is approximately collinear with the axis of rotation of the diaphragm relative to the contact surface.

[0402] Preferably, the biasing force applied between the hinge element and the contact surface is applied at an edge that is substantially parallel to the rotation axis and is substantially collinear with a linear axis passing near the center of the contact radius of the contact surface side that is more convex when viewed in a cross-sectional profile in a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis, between the contact surface of the hinge element and the contact surface.

[0403] Preferably, the biasing force applied between the hinge element and the contact surface is applied at an edge that is parallel to the rotation axis and collinear with a line passing through the center of the contact radius of the contact surface side that is more convex when viewed in a cross-sectional profile in a plane perpendicular to the rotation axis, between the contact surface of the hinge element and the contact surface of the contact surface.

[0404] Preferably, the biasing force applied to the hinge element is applied at a location that is approximately on the axis of rotation of the diaphragm relative to the contact surface.

[0405] Preferably, the biasing force is applied along an axis that is approximately parallel to the axis of rotation and passes through the approximate center of the radius of the side of the hinge element and contact surface that is more convex when viewed in cross-sectional profile in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

[0406] Preferably, the biasing force is applied near this position throughout the full range of motion of the diaphragm.

[0407] Preferably, at all times during normal operation, the location and direction of the biasing force is through an imaginary line oriented parallel to the axis of rotation and passing through the point of contact between the hinge element and the contact member.

[0408] In another aspect, the invention generally relates to an audio transducer according to any one of the above aspects, including a hinge system, a housing comprising an enclosure or baffle for containing the diaphragm therein or therebetween; the diaphragm having a periphery with one or more peripheral regions that are not physically connected to the housing; It can be said to consist of an audio transducer.

[0409] Preferably, the perimeter is significantly free of physical interconnections, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 20%, and more preferably at least 30%, of the length or circumference of the perimeter. More preferably, the perimeter is substantially free of physical interconnections, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 50%, and more preferably at least 80%, of the length or circumference of the perimeter. Most preferably, the perimeter is approximately completely free of physical interconnections, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise approximately the entire length or circumference of the perimeter.

[0410] In some embodiments, the transducer includes a ferrofluid between one or more peripheral regions of the diaphragm and the interior of the housing. Preferably, the ferrofluid provides substantial support to the diaphragm in the coronal direction of the diaphragm.

[0411] Preferably, the diaphragm comprises a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and adjacent at least one of said major faces to resist compressive-tensile stresses experienced at or adjacent the face of the body during operation.

[0412] In another aspect, the invention generally relates to an audio transducer according to any one of the above aspects including a hinge system, wherein the diaphragm comprises: a diaphragm body having one or more main surfaces; a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and adjacent at least one of said major surfaces to resist compressive-tensile stresses experienced at or adjacent this surface of the body during operation; at least one internal reinforcing member embedded in the body and oriented at an angle to at least one of said major surfaces to resist and / or substantially reduce shear deformations experienced by the body during operation; It can be said to consist of an audio transducer.

[0413] Preferably, in either one of the above two aspects, the mass distribution associated with the diaphragm body or the mass distribution associated with the normal stress stiffeners, or both, is such that the diaphragm has a relatively small mass in one or more low-mass regions of the diaphragm compared to the mass in one or more relatively high-mass regions of the diaphragm.

[0414] Preferably, the diaphragm body has a relatively small mass in one or more regions distal to the location of the centre of mass of the diaphragm. Preferably, the thickness of the diaphragm decreases towards the periphery distal to the centre of mass.

[0415] Alternatively, or additionally, the mass distribution of the normal stress stiffener is such that a relatively small mass is located in one or more peripheral edge regions of the associated major surface that are distal to the center of mass location of the assembled diaphragm.

[0416] In another aspect, the invention can generally be said to consist of an audio device incorporating any one of the above aspects including a hinge system, and further comprising a decoupling mounting system disposed between a diaphragm of an audio transducer and at least one other portion of the audio device to at least partially mitigate mechanical transmission of vibrations between the diaphragm and at least one other portion of the audio device, and flexibly mounting a first component to a second component of the audio device.

[0417] Preferably, the at least one other part of the audio device is not another part of the diaphragm of an audio transducer of the device. Preferably, the decoupling mounting system is connected between the transducer base structure and the other part. Preferably, the other part is a transducer housing.

[0418] In another aspect, the invention may comprise an audio device comprising two or more electroacoustic speakers incorporating one or more audio transducers of any of the above aspects and providing two or more distinct audio channels capable of playing independent audio signals, preferably a personal audio device adapted for audio within about 10 cm of a user's ears.

[0419] In another aspect, the invention may comprise a personal audio device incorporating any combination of one or more audio transducers and their associated features, configurations and embodiments of any one of the preceding audio transducer aspects.

[0420] In another aspect, the invention can be said to consist in a personal audio device comprising a pair of interface devices configured to be worn by a user at or near each ear, each interface device comprising one or more audio transducers and any combination of their associated features, configurations and embodiments of any one of the preceding audio transducer aspects.

[0421] In another aspect, the invention can be said to consist in a headphone apparatus comprising a pair of headphone interface devices configured to be worn on or about each ear, each interface device comprising one or more audio transducers and any combination of their associated features, configurations and embodiments of any one of the preceding audio transducer aspects.

[0422] In another aspect, the invention can be said to comprise an earphone device comprising a pair of earphone interfaces configured to be fitted within the ear canal or concha of a user's ear, each earphone interface comprising one or more audio transducers and any combination of their associated features, configurations and embodiments of any one of the preceding audio transducer aspects.

[0423] In another aspect, the invention may comprise an audio transducer of any one of the above aspects, and related features, configurations and embodiments, wherein the audio transducer is an acoustoelectric transducer.

[0424] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: A diaphragm and a transducer base structure; at least one hinge connection, each hinge connection pivotally connecting the diaphragm to the transducer base structure to allow the diaphragm to rotate relative to the transducer base structure about an axis of rotation during operation, the hinge connection comprising at least two resilient hinge elements rigidly coupled to the transducer base structure on one side and to the diaphragm on the opposite side and canted relative to each other, each hinge element being intimately coupled to both the transducer base structure and the diaphragm and having a substantial translational stiffness to resist compressive, tensile and / or shear deformation along and across the element during operation, and a substantial flexibility to allow bending in response to forces normal to the section thereof; It can be said to consist of an audio transducer.

[0425] Preferably, for each hinge connection, each hinge element is relatively thin compared to the length of the element to facilitate rotational movement of the diaphragm about the axis of rotation.

[0426] In one form, the diaphragm comprises a diaphragm base frame for supporting the diaphragm, the diaphragm being supported along or near an edge of the diaphragm by the diaphragm base frame, the diaphragm base frame being directly attached to one or both of the hinge elements of each hinge connection.

[0427] Preferably, the diaphragm base frame facilitates a rigid connection between the diaphragm and each hinge connection.

[0428] In one form, the diaphragm base frame comprises one or more coil stiffening panels, one or more lateral arc stiffener triangles, an upper support plate, and a lower base plate.

[0429] In some embodiments, the diaphragm does not include a diaphragm base frame, and the diaphragm is attached directly to one or both hinge elements at each hinge connection.

[0430] Preferably, the distance from the diaphragm to one or both hinge elements of each hinge connection is less than half the maximum distance from the axis of rotation to the distal-most periphery of the diaphragm, and more preferably less than 1 / 3 of this maximum distance, and more preferably less than 1 / 4 of this maximum distance, and more preferably less than 1 / 8 of this maximum distance, and most preferably less than 1 / 16 of this maximum distance.

[0431] Preferably, one or more hinge connections are connected to at least one face or periphery of the diaphragm, and the overall size of at least one dimension of each connection is greater than 1 / 6, more preferably greater than 1 / 4, and most preferably greater than 1 / 2 of the corresponding dimension of the associated face or periphery.

[0432] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: A diaphragm and a transducer base structure; at least one hinge connection, each hinge connection pivotally connecting the diaphragm to the transducer base structure to allow the diaphragm to rotate relative to the transducer base structure about an axis of rotation during operation, the hinge connection comprising at least two resilient hinge elements rigidly coupled to the transducer base structure on one side and to the diaphragm on an opposite side and canted relative to each other, each hinge element being intimately coupled to both the transducer base structure and the diaphragm and having a substantial translational stiffness to resist compressive, tensile and / or shear deformation along and across the element during operation, and a substantial flexibility to allow bending in response to a force normal to the section thereof; The audio transducer may be configured such that the distance from the diaphragm to one or both hinge elements at each hinge connection is less than half the maximum distance from the axis of rotation to the distal-most periphery of the diaphragm. More preferably, the distance to one or both hinge elements is less than one-third of this maximum distance, and more preferably less than one-quarter of this maximum distance, and more preferably less than one-eighth of this maximum distance, and most preferably less than one-sixteenth of this maximum distance.

[0433] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: A diaphragm and a transducer base structure; and at least one hinge connection, each hinge connection pivotally connecting the diaphragm to the transducer base structure to allow the diaphragm to rotate relative to the transducer base structure about an axis of rotation during operation, the hinge connections comprising at least two resilient hinge elements rigidly coupled to the transducer base structure on one side and to the diaphragm on the other side and tilted relative to each other, each hinge element being tightly coupled to both the transducer base structure and the diaphragm and having substantial translational stiffness to resist compressive, tensile and / or shear deformation along and across said element during operation, and substantial flexibility to allow bending in response to forces perpendicular to said section, the one or more hinge connections being coupled to at least one face or periphery of the diaphragm, and at least one overall dimension of each coupling being greater than 1 / 6 of the corresponding dimension of the associated face or periphery. More preferably, the dimension of the connection is greater than 1 / 4, and most preferably greater than 1 / 2, of the corresponding dimension of the associated face or periphery.

[0434] Preferably, the size of two substantially orthogonal dimensions of each link is greater than 1 / 16 of the size of the corresponding orthogonal dimension of the associated surface or face, more preferably greater than 1 / 4, and most preferably greater than 1 / 2.

[0435] The following provisions apply to at least the first three aspects:

[0436] #429d Preferably, the total thickness of the connection between the diaphragm and each hinge connection in a direction perpendicular to the coronal plane of the diaphragm and the hinge axis [is this valid for multi-blades?] is greater than 1 / 6, more preferably greater than 1 / 4, and most preferably greater than 1 / 2, of the maximum dimension of the diaphragm in the same direction at any location along said connection or connections.

[0437] In some embodiments, each flexible hinge element of each hinge connection is substantially flexible in bending. Preferably, each hinge element is substantially rigid in torsion.

[0438] In an alternative embodiment, each flexible hinge element of each hinge connection is substantially torsionally flexible. Preferably, each flexible hinge element is substantially bendingly rigid.

[0439] In some embodiments, each hinge element has an approximately or substantially planar profile, for example in the form of a flat sheet.

[0440] In some embodiments, a pair of flexible hinge elements at each connection are joined or intersect along a common edge to form a generally L-shaped cross-section. In some other configurations, a pair of flexible hinge elements at each hinge connection intersect along a central region to form an axis of rotation, with the hinge elements forming a generally X-shaped cross-section (i.e., the hinge elements form a cross-spring configuration). In some other configurations, the flexible hinge elements at each hinge connection are spaced apart and extend in different directions.

[0441] In one form, the axis of rotation is approximately collinear with the point where the hinge elements of each hinge connection intersect.

[0442] In some embodiments, each flexible hinge element of each hinge connection includes a lateral curvature along the longitudinal length of the element, such that the hinge element is slightly bent so that it can bend to a substantially planar position during operation.

[0443] In some embodiments, the pair of flexible hinge elements at each hinge connection are angled relative to one another at an angle between 20 and 160 degrees, more preferably between 30 and 150 degrees, even more preferably between 50 and 130 degrees, and even more preferably between 70 and 110 degrees. Preferably, the pair of flexible hinge elements are substantially perpendicular to one another.

[0444] Preferably, one flexible hinge element of each hinge connection extends significantly in a first direction that is substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

[0445] Preferably, each hinge element of each hinge connection has an average dimension in width or height, when cross-sectionally taken in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation, that is greater than three times, more preferably greater than five times, and most preferably greater than six times the square root of the average cross-sectional area of ​​the length of the hinge element calculated along that portion of the hinge element that is significantly deformed during normal operation.

[0446] In some embodiments, one or both hinge elements of each hinge connection are thin sheets, each thin sheet having a thickness, width, and length, and the thickness of the hinge element is less than about 1 / 4 of its length, more preferably less than about 1 / 8 of its length, even more preferably less than about 1 / 16 of its length, even more preferably less than about 1 / 35 of its length, even more preferably less than about 1 / 50 of its length, and most preferably less than about 1 / 70 of its length.

[0447] In some embodiments, the thickness of the spring member is less than about 1 / 4 of its width, or less than about 1 / 8 of its width, also preferably less than about 1 / 16 of its width, also more preferably less than about 1 / 24 of its width, even more preferably less than about 1 / 45 of its width, even more preferably less than about 1 / 60 of its width, and most preferably less than about 1 / 70 of its width.

[0448] In some embodiments, each hinge element of each hinge connection has a substantially uniform thickness across at least a majority of its length and width.

[0449] In some configurations, the hinge element at each hinge connection has a non-uniform thickness that increases toward the edge proximal to the diaphragm. Alternatively, or additionally, the hinge element at each hinge connection has a non-uniform thickness that increases toward the edge proximal to the transducer base structure.

[0450] In one form, the thickness of one or both of the hinge elements at each hinge connection increases at or near the end of the hinge element that is most distal from the diaphragm or transducer base structure.

[0451] This increase in thickness may be gradual or tapered.

[0452] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: A diaphragm and a transducer base structure; at least one hinge connection, each hinge connection pivotally connecting the diaphragm to the transducer base structure to allow the diaphragm to rotate relative to the transducer base structure about an axis of rotation during operation, the hinge connection comprising at least two resilient hinge elements rigidly coupled to the transducer base structure on one side and to the diaphragm on the other side and canted relative to each other, each hinge element being intimately coupled to both the transducer base structure and the diaphragm and having a substantial translational stiffness to resist compressive, tensile and / or shear deformation along and across said element during operation, and a substantial flexibility to allow bending in response to forces normal to said section, one or both hinge elements of each hinge connection having a thickness that increases towards an edge or end of the element intimately coupled to the diaphragm or the transducer base structure; It can be said to consist of an audio transducer.

[0453] This increase in thickness may be gradual or tapered.

[0454] The following provisions apply to at least the first four aspects:

[0455] In some embodiments, each hinge element of each hinge connection is flanged at an end configured to rigidly couple to a diaphragm or transducer base structure.

[0456] The hinge elements may have a non-uniform width, which may increase at or towards the edges / ends intimately associated with the diaphragm and / or transducer base structure, and which may increase at or towards the ends / edges distal from the diaphragm or transducer base structure.

[0457] This increase in width may be gradual or tapered.

[0458] In some embodiments, the audio transducer comprises a hinge assembly having two hinge connections, preferably one on each side of the diaphragm.

[0459] Preferably, each hinge connection is located at a distance from the midsagittal plane of the diaphragm that is at least 0.2 times the width of the diaphragm body.

[0460] Preferably, the first hinge connection is located proximate a first corner region of the end face of the diaphragm and the second hinge connection is located proximate an opposing second corner region of the end face, the hinge connections being substantially collinear.

[0461] The diaphragms may be coupled to their respective hinge connections by adhesive such as epoxy, by welding, by clamping using fasteners, or by a number of other methods.

[0462] In a preferred embodiment, each hinge element of each connection is made from a material having a Young's modulus greater than, for example, 8 GPa, which may be a metal, ceramic, or any other material having such stiffness.

[0463] In some embodiments, each hinge element is made from a material having a Young's modulus greater than 20 GPa.

[0464] In one form, each hinge element of each hinge connection is made from a continuous material such as a metal or ceramic. For example, the hinge elements may be made from a high-strength steel alloy, a tungsten alloy, a titanium alloy, or an amorphous metal alloy such as "Liquidmetal" or "Vitreloy."

[0465] In another form, the hinge elements are made from a composite material such as plastic reinforced carbon fiber.

[0466] In some configurations, the diaphragm body of the diaphragm is substantially thick. Preferably, the diaphragm body has a maximum thickness that is greater than 11% of the maximum length of the diaphragm body, and more preferably, greater than 14% of the maximum length of the diaphragm body.

[0467] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm having a diaphragm body; a transducer base structure; and at least one hinge connection, each hinge connection pivotally connecting the diaphragm to the transducer base structure to allow the diaphragm to rotate relative to the transducer base structure about an axis of rotation during operation, the hinge connections comprising at least two elastic hinge elements rigidly coupled to the transducer base structure on one side and to the diaphragm on the other side and tilted relative to each other, each hinge element being tightly coupled to both the transducer base structure and the diaphragm and having substantial translational stiffness to resist compressive, tensile and / or shear deformation along and across said element during operation, and substantial flexibility to allow bending in response to forces perpendicular to said section, and the diaphragm body of the diaphragm being substantially thick.

[0468] Preferably, the diaphragm body has a maximum thickness that is greater than 15% of its length from the axis of rotation to the opposing distal peripheries of the diaphragm body.

[0469] The following provisions apply to at least the preceding five aspects:

[0470] Preferably, the audio transducer further comprises a conversion mechanism.

[0471] In one form, the audio transducer is a speaker driver.

[0472] In one form, the audio transducer is a microphone.

[0473] In one form, the transduction mechanism uses an electrokinetic transduction mechanism, or a piezoelectric transduction mechanism, or a magnetostrictive transduction mechanism, or any other suitable transduction mechanism.

[0474] In one form, the transducer mechanism comprises a coil winding. Preferably, the coil winding is connected to the diaphragm. Preferably, the coil winding is in close proximity to or directly attached to the diaphragm.

[0475] Preferably, the transducer mechanism is in close proximity to or directly connected to the diaphragm.

[0476] In one form, the force transmission component of the translation mechanism is connected to the diaphragm.

[0477] In one form, the force transmission component is connected to the diaphragm by a linkage structure having a chunky geometry.

[0478] Preferably, the connecting structure has a Young's modulus greater than 8 GPa.

[0479] In one form, the transformation mechanism comprises a magnetic circuit comprising a magnet, an outer pole piece, and an inner pole piece.

[0480] In one configuration, a coil winding attached to the diaphragm is positioned in the magnetic circuit in the gap between the outer and inner pole pieces.

[0481] In one form, both the outer and inner pole pieces are made of steel.

[0482] In one form, the magnet is made from neodymium.

[0483] In one form, the coil windings are attached directly to the diaphragm base frame using an adhesive such as an epoxy adhesive.

[0484] In one form, the transducer base structure comprises a block for supporting the diaphragm and the magnetic circuit.

[0485] Preferably, the transducer base structure has a thick, chunky geometry.

[0486] Preferably, the transducer base structure has a mass greater than the mass of the diaphragm.

[0487] In some embodiments, the transducer base structure may be made from a material with a high specific modulus of elasticity, such as a metal, for example, but not limited to, aluminum or magnesium, or a ceramic, such as glass, to improve resistance to resonance.

[0488] Preferably, the transducer base structure comprises components with a Young's modulus greater than 8 GPa, or greater than 20 GPa.

[0489] The transducer base structure may be coupled to each hinge connection by an adhesive such as epoxy or cyanoacrylate, by using fasteners, by soldering, by welding, or by any number of other methods.

[0490] In one configuration, the audio transducer further comprises a diaphragm housing, the transducer base structure being rigidly attached to the diaphragm housing.

[0491] In one form, the diaphragm housing includes a grill on one or more walls of the housing, hi one form, the grill may be made from stamped and pressed aluminum.

[0492] In one form, the diaphragm housing may include one or more stiffeners in one or more walls, which may also be made from stamped and pressed aluminum.

[0493] In one form, the stiffener may be placed on the wall or part of the wall near the diaphragm after the diaphragm is placed in the housing.

[0494] In one form, the transducer base structure is connected to the floor of the diaphragm housing by an adhesive or glue.

[0495] In one form, the walls of the diaphragm housing act as a barrier or baffle to reduce radiated sound cancellation.

[0496] In some embodiments, the diaphragm housing may be made from a material with a high specific modulus, such as a metal, for example, but not limited to, aluminum or magnesium, or a ceramic, such as glass, to improve resistance to resonance.

[0497] In another configuration, the audio transducer does not include a transducer base structure that is rigidly attached to the diaphragm housing, and the audio transducer is received in the transducer housing via a decoupling mounting system.

[0498] In some embodiments, the audio transducer further comprises a housing for receiving the diaphragm therein, wherein the periphery of the diaphragm body is not substantially physically coupled to the interior of the housing, and preferably, an air gap exists between the periphery of the diaphragm body and the interior of the housing.

[0499] Preferably, the size of the air gap is less than 1 / 20 of the length of the diaphragm body.

[0500] Preferably, the size of the air gap is less than 1 mm.

[0501] Preferably, the diaphragm body has a periphery that is not in physical contact with or connected to the interior of the housing along at least 20 percent of its periphery, more preferably along at least 50 percent of its periphery, even more preferably along at least 80 percent of its periphery, and most preferably along the entire periphery.

[0502] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm having a diaphragm body; a transducer base structure; and at least one hinge connection, each hinge connection pivotally connecting the diaphragm to the transducer base structure to allow the diaphragm to rotate relative to the transducer base structure about an axis of rotation during operation, the hinge connections comprising at least two resilient hinge elements rigidly coupled to the transducer base structure on one side and to the diaphragm on the other side and tilted relative to each other, each hinge element being tightly coupled to both the transducer base structure and the diaphragm and having substantial translational stiffness to resist compressive, tensile and / or shear deformation along and across said element during operation, and substantial flexibility to allow bending in response to forces perpendicular to said section, and wherein the outer periphery of the diaphragm body is not substantially physically coupled to the interior of the housing.

[0503] Preferably, the diaphragm body has a periphery that is not in physical contact with or connected to the interior of the housing along at least 20 percent of its periphery, and more preferably along at least 50 percent of its periphery, and even more preferably along at least 80 percent of its periphery, and most preferably along the entire periphery.

[0504] In some embodiments, there is an air gap between the periphery of the diaphragm body and the interior of the housing.

[0505] In some embodiments, the size of the air gap is less than 1 / 20 of the length of the diaphragm body.

[0506] Preferably, the size of the air gap is less than 1 mm.

[0507] In some embodiments, the transducer includes a ferrofluid between one or more peripheral regions of the diaphragm and the interior of the housing. Preferably, the ferrofluid provides substantial support to the diaphragm in the coronal direction of the diaphragm.

[0508] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm having a diaphragm body; a hinge assembly configured to rotatably support the diaphragm body relative to the base of the transducer, the hinge assembly comprising at least one torsion member and providing an axis of rotation for the diaphragm; each torsion member is positioned to extend parallel to and immediately adjacent to the axis of rotation, the torsion member having a length, a width and a height, the width and height of the torsion member being greater than 3% of the length of the diaphragm from the axis of rotation to the distal-most periphery of the diaphragm; It is an audio transducer.

[0509] Preferably, the width and / or length of the torsion member is greater than 4% of the length of the diaphragm from the axis of rotation to the distal most periphery of the diaphragm.

[0510] Preferably, the torsion spring member has an average dimension perpendicular to the axis of rotation that is greater than 1.5 times the square root of the average cross-sectional area of ​​the torsion spring member length (excluding adhesive and wire, which contribute little to strength) measured along the portion of the torsion spring member that undergoes significant deformation during normal operation, and more preferably greater than 2 times the square root of the average cross-sectional area of ​​the spring length measured along the portion of the spring member that undergoes significant deformation during normal operation, and more preferably greater than 2.5 times the square root of the average cross-sectional area of ​​the spring member length measured along the portion of the spring member that undergoes significant deformation during normal operation.

[0511] Preferably, at least one or more torsion spring members are mounted at or near the axis of rotation and combine to directly provide at least 50% of the restoring force when the diaphragm undergoes only small translational motion in any direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

[0512] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm having a diaphragm body; a transducer base structure; and at least one hinge connection operably and rotatably supporting the diaphragm relative to the transducer base structure in situ, each hinge connection having a resilient member having a thickness that is relatively small compared to the length and / or width of the resilient member, the resilient member having a first end rigidly connected to the diaphragm and a second end rigidly connected to the transducer base structure, the thickness and / or width of both the first end and second end of the member increasing as they extend away from an intermediate central region of the resilient member. It is an audio transducer.

[0513] Preferably, each resilient member of each hinge connection comprises a pair of flexible hinge elements canted relative to each other, preferably the hinge elements are canted substantially perpendicular to each other.

[0514] In a preferred configuration, one flexible hinge element at each connection extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation. Alternatively, or additionally, one flexible hinge element at each connection extends in a direction substantially parallel to the axis of rotation.

[0515] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm, a hinge assembly, and a transducer base structure; a diaphragm supported by the hinge assembly for rotation relative to the transducer base structure about an axis of rotation in use; the hinge assembly includes at least one hinge connection, each hinge connection having a first flexible elastic element and a second flexible elastic element; a first flexible resilient hinge element rigidly connected at one end to the transducer base structure and rigidly connected at an opposite end to the diaphragm; a second flexible resilient hinge element rigidly connected at one end to the transducer base structure and rigidly connected at an opposite end to the diaphragm; each of the first hinge element and the second hinge element having a thickness between the transducer base structure and the diaphragm that is substantially less than a longitudinal extent of the element, the thickness being substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation and dimensioned to facilitate compliant rotational movement of the diaphragm about the axis of rotation; a first direction in which the first hinge element of each hinge connection extends, perpendicular to the axis of rotation, is inclined at least 30 degrees relative to a second direction in which the second hinge element extends, perpendicular to the axis of rotation, to help improve stiffness with respect to translational displacement of the diaphragm relative to the transducer base structure in both the first direction and the second direction; It is an audio transducer.

[0516] Preferably, the first direction is at an angle of greater than 45 or 60 degrees to the second direction, and most preferably, the first direction is approximately perpendicular to the second direction.

[0517] Preferably, the distance that the first spring member extends in the first direction is significantly greater than the maximum dimension of the diaphragm in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation, so that the ratio of these dimensions is greater than 0.05, or greater than 0.06, or greater than 0.07, or greater than 0.08, and most preferably greater than 0.09.

[0518] Preferably, the distance that the second spring member extends in the second direction is large compared to the maximum dimension of the diaphragm to the axis of rotation, so that the ratio of these dimensions is greater than 0.05, or greater than 0.06, or greater than 0.07, or greater than 0.08, and most preferably greater than 0.09.

[0519] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: A diaphragm and a hinge assembly operably supporting the diaphragm in place, the hinge assembly comprising at least one torsion member, the torsion member being directly and rigidly attached to the diaphragm in use, the torsion member being configured to deform to allow movement of the diaphragm about an axis of rotation provided by the hinge assembly; It is an audio transducer.

[0520] Preferably, the audio transducer further comprises a force transmission component.

[0521] Preferably, the torsion member is configured to deform along its length to allow rotational movement of the diaphragm.

[0522] Preferably, the hinge assembly is configured to allow rotational movement of the diaphragm about an axis of rotation, in use.

[0523] Preferably, the hinge assembly rigidly supports the diaphragm and limits translational movement, while allowing rotational movement of the diaphragm about an axis of rotation.

[0524] In one form, the torsion member is a torsion beam having a roughly C-shaped cross section.

[0525] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: A diaphragm and a hinge assembly operably supporting the diaphragm in place, the hinge assembly including a torsion member and providing an axis of rotation for the diaphragm; a torsion member disposed to extend substantially parallel to and immediately adjacent to the axis of rotation; the torsion member has a height in a direction perpendicular to the coronal plane of the diaphragm, the height measured in millimeters being greater than approximately two times the mass of the diaphragm measured in grams; It is an audio transducer.

[0526] Preferably, the torsion member has a width in a direction parallel to the diaphragm and perpendicular to the axis, which, measured in millimeters, is greater than about two times the mass of the diaphragm, measured in grams.

[0527] Preferably, the torsion member has a width and height, measured in millimeters, that is greater than about 4 times, more preferably greater than 6 times, and most preferably greater than 8 times the mass of the diaphragm, measured in grams.

[0528] In some configurations, one or more of the forty-first through fifty-second aspects of the present disclosure are used in near-field audio speaker applications, where the speaker driver is configured to be placed within 10 cm of the ear during use, for example in headphones or bud earphones.

[0529] In another aspect, the invention generally relates to an audio device configured to be placed within 10 cm of a user's ear, the audio device comprising: A diaphragm and a transducer base structure; and at least one hinge connection. an audio device comprising at least one audio transducer, each hinge connection pivotally connecting the diaphragm to a transducer base structure to allow the diaphragm to rotate relative to the transducer base structure about an axis of rotation during operation; the hinge connections comprising at least two resilient hinge elements rigidly coupled to the transducer base structure on one side and to the diaphragm on an opposite side and tilted relative to each other, each hinge element intimately coupled to both the transducer base structure and the diaphragm and having substantial translational stiffness to resist compressive, tensile and / or shear deformation along and across said element during operation, and substantial flexibility to permit bending in response to forces normal to said section; and one or both hinge elements of each hinge connection having a thickness that increases towards an edge or end of the element intimately coupled to the diaphragm or transducer base structure.

[0530] The following description relates to any one or more of the aspects of the above audio device, including the hinge system, and their associated features, implementations and configurations.

[0531] In some embodiments, the audio device further comprises a housing in the form of an enclosure or baffle, wherein the diaphragm is not physically coupled to the housing in one or more peripheral regions of the diaphragm, and the one or more peripheral regions are supported by the ferrofluid.

[0532] Preferably, the ferrofluid seals or is in direct contact with the one or more peripheral regions supported by the ferrofluid, such that the ferrofluid substantially prevents air flow therebetween and / or provides substantial support to the diaphragm in one or more directions parallel to the coronal plane.

[0533] Preferably, the diaphragm comprises a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and connected near at least one of said major faces to resist compressive-tensile stresses experienced at or near this face of the body during operation.

[0534] In another aspect, the invention generally relates to an audio transducer according to any one of the above aspects, including a hinge system, wherein the diaphragm comprises: a diaphragm body having one or more main surfaces; a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and adjacent at least one of said major surfaces to resist compressive-tensile stresses experienced at or adjacent this surface of the body during operation; and at least one internal reinforcing member embedded in the body and oriented at an angle to at least one of said major surfaces, said internal reinforcing member resisting and / or substantially reducing shear deformations experienced by the body during operation.

[0535] Preferably, in either one of the above two aspects, the mass distribution associated with the diaphragm body or the mass distribution associated with the normal stress stiffeners, or both, is such that the diaphragm has a relatively small mass in one or more low-mass regions of the diaphragm compared to the mass in one or more relatively high-mass regions of the diaphragm.

[0536] Preferably, the diaphragm body has a relatively small mass in one or more regions distal to the location of the centre of mass of the diaphragm. Preferably, the thickness of the diaphragm decreases towards the periphery distal to the centre of mass.

[0537] Alternatively, or additionally, the mass distribution of the normal stress stiffener is such that a relatively small mass is located in one or more peripheral edge regions of the associated major surface that are distal to the center of mass location of the assembled diaphragm.

[0538] In some embodiments, the audio device comprises one or more audio transducers, as well as At least one decoupling mounting system disposed between the diaphragm and at least one other part of the audio device to at least partially mitigate mechanical transmission of vibrations between the diaphragm of the at least one audio transducer and at least one other part of the audio device, each decoupling mounting system flexibly mounting a first component to a second component of the audio device.

[0539] Preferably, the at least one audio transducer further comprises a transducer base structure, the audio device comprises a housing for accommodating the audio transducer therein, and the decoupling mounting system connects between the transducer base structure of the audio transducer and the interior of the housing.

[0540] In some embodiments, the audio device is a personal audio device.

[0541] In one configuration, a personal audio device comprises a pair of interface devices configured to be worn by a user at or near each ear.

[0542] The audio device may be headphones or earphones. The audio device may include a pair of speakers, one for each ear. Each speaker may include one or more audio transducers.

[0543] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm including a coil and a coil stiffening panel, the diaphragm configured to rotate about an approximate axis of rotation during operation to transduce audio, whereby the coil is wound into a generally four-sided shape having a first long side, a first short side, a second long side, and a second short side; a coil stiffening panel extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation, the stiffening panel connecting the first long side of the coil to the second long side of the coil; It is an audio transducer.

[0544] Preferably, the coil stiffening panel is positioned near or in contact with the first short side of the coil.

[0545] Preferably, the coil stiffening panel extends from approximately the junction between the first long side and the first short side of the coil to approximately the junction between the first second long side and the first short side of the coil, and also extends in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

[0546] Preferably, the coil stiffened panel is made from a material having a Young's modulus greater than 8 GPa, and more preferably greater than 15 GPa, and even more preferably greater than 25 GPa, and even more preferably greater than 40 GPa, and most preferably greater than 60 GPa.

[0547] Preferably, there is a second coil stiffening panel located near or in contact with the second short side of the coil.

[0548] In one configuration, there is a third coil stiffening panel positioned near the sagittal plane of the diaphragm body.

[0549] Preferably, the panel extends towards the axis of rotation rather than away from it.

[0550] Preferably, these long sides are at least partially located within the magnetic field.

[0551] Preferably, these long sides extend in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation.

[0552] Preferably, the magnetic field extends through the first long side in a direction approximately perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

[0553] Preferably, these long sides are not connected to the former.

[0554] Preferably, the diaphragm further comprises a diaphragm base frame including a coil stiffening panel, the diaphragm base frame rigidly supporting the coil and the diaphragm and rigidly connected to the hinge system.

[0555] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for producing a pharmaceutical composition comprising: a rotatably mounted diaphragm and a translation mechanism configured to operatively translate rotational movement of the diaphragm in response to an electronic audio signal and / or sound pressure; Audio transducers, as well as A decoupling mounting system disposed between a diaphragm of an audio transducer and at least one other portion of an audio device to at least partially mitigate mechanical transmission of vibrations between the diaphragm and the at least one other portion of the audio device and to flexibly mount a first component of the audio device to a second component. It can be said that it consists of an audio device equipped with

[0556] Preferably, this at least one other part of the audio device is not another part of the diaphragm of an audio transducer of the device.

[0557] In one configuration, the audio device includes at least a first audio transducer and a second audio transducer, and preferably the decoupling mounting system at least partially mitigates mechanical transmission of vibrations between a diaphragm of the first transducer and the second transducer.

[0558] Preferably, the diaphragm is supported by a hinge assembly that is rigid in at least one translational direction.

[0559] In some embodiments, a hinge system comprises a hinge assembly having one or more hinge connections, each hinge connection comprising a hinge element and a contact member, the contact member having a contact surface, and wherein, during operation, each hinge connection is configured to allow the hinge element to move relative to the associated contact member while maintaining substantially stable physical contact with the contact surface, and the hinge assembly biases the hinge element toward the contact surface.

[0560] Preferably, the hinge assembly further comprises a biasing mechanism, the hinge element being biased towards the contact surface by the biasing mechanism.

[0561] Preferably, the biasing mechanism is substantially compliant.

[0562] Preferably, the biasing mechanism is substantially compliant in a direction substantially perpendicular to the contact surface at the contact area between the respective hinge element and the associated contact member during operation.

[0563] Preferably, the hinge system further comprises a restoring mechanism configured to apply a diaphragm restoring force to the diaphragm at a radius less than 60% of the distance from the hinge axis to the periphery of the diaphragm.

[0564] In some other embodiments, the hinge system comprises at least one hinge connection, each hinge connection pivotally connecting the diaphragm to the transducer base structure to allow the diaphragm to rotate relative to the transducer base structure about an axis of rotation during operation, and the hinge connection comprises at least two resilient hinge elements rigidly coupled to the transducer base structure on one side and to the diaphragm on the other side and tilted relative to each other, each hinge element tightly coupled to both the transducer base structure and the diaphragm and having substantial translational stiffness to resist compressive, tensile and / or shear deformation along and across the element during operation, and substantial flexibility to allow bending in response to forces normal to the section.

[0565] Preferably, at least one other part of the audio device directly or indirectly supports the diaphragm.

[0566] Preferably, the decoupling mounting system at least partially mitigates mechanical transmission of vibrations between the diaphragm and at least one other part of the audio device along at least one translational axis, and more preferably along at least two substantially orthogonal translational axes, and even more preferably along three substantially orthogonal translational axes.

[0567] Preferably, the decoupling mounting system at least partially reduces mechanical transmission of vibrations between the diaphragm and at least one other part of the audio device about at least one axis of rotation, and more preferably about at least two substantially orthogonal axes of rotation, and even more preferably about three substantially orthogonal axes of rotation.

[0568] Preferably, the decoupling mounting system substantially reduces mechanical transmission of vibrations between the diaphragm and at least one other portion of the audio device.

[0569] Preferably, the audio device further comprises a transducer housing configured to house the audio transducer therein.

[0570] Preferably, the transducer housing comprises a baffle or enclosure.

[0571] Preferably, the audio transducer further comprises a transducer base structure.

[0572] Preferably, the diaphragm is rotatable relative to the transducer base structure.

[0573] Preferably, the decoupling system comprises at least one nodal axis mount configured to be located at or proximate to a nodal axis location associated with the first component.

[0574] Preferably, the decoupling system comprises at least one distal mount configured to be located distally from a nodal axis location associated with the first component.

[0575] Preferably, the at least one nodal axis mount is relatively less compliant and / or relatively less flexible than the at least one distal mount.

[0576] In a first embodiment, the decoupling system includes a pair of node axis mounts disposed on opposite sides of a first component. Preferably, each node axis mount includes a pin rigidly connected to the first component and extending laterally from one side thereof along an axis substantially aligned with the node axis of the base structure. Preferably, each node axis mount further includes a bushing rigidly connected around the pin and configured to be disposed within a corresponding recess in the second component. Preferably, the corresponding recess in the second component includes a slug for rigidly receiving and retaining the bushing therein. Preferably, each node axis mount further includes a washer positioned between an outer surface of the first component and an inner surface of the second component. Preferably, the washer creates a uniform gap between the outer surface of the first component and the inner surface of the second component around a substantial portion of the first component or the entire periphery thereof.

[0577] Preferably, each distal mount comprises a substantially flexible mounting pad. Preferably, the decoupling system comprises a pair of mounting pads coupled between an outer surface of the first component and an inner surface of the second component. Preferably, the mounting pads are connected to opposite sides of the first component. Preferably, each mounting pad comprises an apex end and a base end and has a width that substantially tapers along the depth of the pad. Preferably, the base end is rigidly coupled to one of the first component or the second component and the apex end is coupled to the other of the first component or the second component.

[0578] In some configurations of this embodiment, the first component may be a transducer base structure. Alternatively, the first component may be a sub-housing that extends around the audio transducer. The second component may be a housing or surround for containing the audio transducer or a sub-housing for the audio transducer.

[0579] In a second embodiment, the decoupling system comprises a plurality of flexible mounting blocks. Preferably, the mounting blocks are distributed around the outer periphery of the first component and rigidly couple to the outer periphery of the first component on one side and to the inner periphery of the second component on the opposite side. Preferably, a first set of one or more mounting blocks connects the first component at or near a nodal axis location of the first component. Preferably, a second set of mounting blocks connects the first component at one or more locations distal to the nodal axis location. Preferably, the second set of distal mounting blocks are located at or near the diaphragm of the audio transducer. Preferably, the first set of mounting blocks are located distal to the diaphragm of the audio transducer. Preferably, the plurality of mounting blocks are configured to rigidly couple within corresponding recesses in the second component. Preferably, the plurality of mounting blocks have a thickness greater than the depth of the corresponding recesses, thereby forming a substantially uniform gap in situ between the first and second components.

[0580] In one configuration (in any embodiment), the transducer base structure comprises a magnet assembly.

[0581] Preferably, the transducer base structure comprises a connection to a diaphragm suspension system.

[0582] Preferably, the audio device is arranged in an audio system that uses two or more different audio channels through an arrangement of two or more audio transducers (i.e., stereo or multi-channel).

[0583] Preferably, the audio device is configured within an audio system that uses two or more different audio channels through an arrangement of two or more audio transducers (i.e., stereo or multi-channel).

[0584] Preferably, the audio device comprises at least two or more audio transducers configured to simultaneously reproduce at least two different audio channels (i.e., stereo or multi-channel).

[0585] Preferably, the different audio channels are independent of each other.

[0586] Preferably, the audio device further comprises components configured to position the audio transducer at or near one or both ears of a user.

[0587] In another aspect, the invention generally comprises: a diaphragm, a translation mechanism configured to operably translate movement of the diaphragm corresponding to an electronic audio signal and / or sound pressure, and a base structural assembly; Audio transducers, and a decoupling mounting system disposed between the diaphragm and at least one other portion of the audio device to at least partially mitigate mechanical transmission of vibrations between the diaphragm and the at least one other portion of the audio device and to flexibly mount a first component to a second component of the audio device; A base structure assembly is said to be effectively unconstrained when it comprises an audio device having a mass distribution that moves with motion that has a large rotational component. For example, a base structure assembly is effectively unconstrained when the transducer is operated at a sufficiently high frequency so that the stiffness of the decoupling mounting system is negligible or negligible.

[0588] Preferably, the diaphragm moves relative to the transducer base structure during operation with a large rotational component.

[0589] Preferably, the decoupling mounting system is disposed between the transducer base structure and the enclosure or baffle.

[0590] In one embodiment, at least one decoupling mounting system is disposed between the diaphragm and the transducer housing to at least partially mitigate mechanical transmission of vibrations between the diaphragm and the transducer housing.

[0591] Preferably, the audio device comprises a first decoupling mounting system for flexibly mounting the diaphragm to the transducer base structure and / or a second decoupling mounting system for flexibly mounting the transducer base structure to the transducer housing.

[0592] In one embodiment, the audio device further comprises a headband component configured to position the audio device at or near one or both ears of a user and a decoupling mounting system that flexibly mounts the headband to the transducer housing.

[0593] Preferably, the diaphragm comprises a diaphragm body.

[0594] In one embodiment, the diaphragm comprises a diaphragm body having a maximum thickness of at least 11% and preferably greater than 14% of the maximum linear dimension of the body.

[0595] Preferably, the diaphragm comprises a diaphragm body having a composite construction consisting of a core made from a relatively lightweight material and a reinforcement at or near one or more outer surfaces of the core, said reinforcement being formed from a substantially rigid material to resist and / or substantially reduce deformations experienced by the body during operation. Preferably, the reinforcement has a stiffness of at least 8 MPa / (kg / m 3 ), and more preferably at least 20 MPa / (kg / m 3), and most preferably at least 100 MPa / (kg / m 3 ) The reinforcement may be made of one or more materials having a specific modulus of elasticity of . For example, the reinforcement may be made of aluminum or carbon fiber reinforced plastic.

[0596] Preferably, the reinforcing material is a normal stress stiffener connected to the diaphragm body and connected near at least one of said outer surfaces to resist and / or substantially reduce compressive-tensile deformations experienced at or near the surface of the body during operation; and at least one internal stiffening member embedded in the body and oriented at an angle to the normal stress stiffener to resist and / or substantially reduce shear deformations experienced by the body during operation.

[0597] In a preferred embodiment, the audio transducer is a speaker driver.

[0598] Preferably, the diaphragm comprises a substantially rigid diaphragm body, the diaphragm body maintaining a substantially rigid conformation across the FRO of the transducer during operation.

[0599] Preferably, the translation mechanism applies an excitation force acting on the diaphragm during operation.

[0600] Preferably, the transduction mechanism also applies a reactive excitation force to the transducer base structure that is associated with an reactive excitation force applied to the diaphragm during operation.

[0601] Preferably, the translation mechanism comprises a force transmission component rigidly coupled to the diaphragm.

[0602] In one form, the force transmitting components of the translation mechanism are directly and rigidly coupled to the diaphragm.

[0603] Alternatively, the force transmission component is rigidly coupled to the diaphragm by one or more intermediate components, and the distance between the force transmission component and the diaphragm body is less than 50% of the maximum dimension of the diaphragm body, more preferably less than 35% or less than 25% of the maximum dimension of the diaphragm body.

[0604] Preferably, the force transmitting component of the translation mechanism comprises a motor coil connected to the diaphragm.

[0605] In one form, the force transmitting component of the translation mechanism comprises a magnet connected to a diaphragm.

[0606] Preferably, the transformation mechanism comprises a magnet which is part of the transducer base structure and which provides a magnetic field which the motor coil is subjected to during operation.

[0607] Preferably, the audio device comprises a base structure assembly associated with the audio transducer that comprises a transducer base structure of the audio transducer, and the base structure assembly may also comprise other components such as a housing, frame, baffle or enclosure that are rigidly connected to the transducer base structure.

[0608] Preferably, the base structure assembly is rotatable relative to the audio transducer housing about a transducer nodal axis that is substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the diaphragm.

[0609] Preferably, the base structural assembly of the audio transducer is coupled to at least one other part of the audio device by a decoupling mounting system.

[0610] Preferably, the compliance and / or compliance profile of the decoupling mounting system (which may include the overall degree of compliance to relative motion of the decoupling system and / or the relative compliance at various positions of the various decoupling mounts of the decoupling system) and the position of the decoupling mounting system relative to an associated audio transducer is such that when the driver is operated with a steady-state sine wave having a frequency within the FRO of the transducer, the shortest distance between the first point and the transducer nodal axis in the second operating state is less than about 25%, and more preferably less than 20%, and even more preferably less than 15%, and even more preferably less than 10%, and most preferably less than 5% of the maximum linear dimension of the associated transducer base structure, and the first point is located on a portion of the transducer nodal axis where it passes through the transducer base structure in the first operating state and is also located at the maximum orthogonal distance from the transducer nodal axis in the second operating state.

[0611] Preferably, when the transducer is in the second operating state, the transducer nodal axis passes through or within 25% of the maximum linear dimension of the base structural assembly.

[0612] Preferably, the decoupling mounting system comprises one or more nodal axis mounts that, in the second operating state, are positioned at a distance from the transducer nodal axis that is less than 25%, or 20%, or 15%, or most preferably less than 10% of the maximum dimension of the base structure assembly.

[0613] Preferably, the decoupling mounting system comprises one or more distal mounts that, in the second operating state, are positioned from the transducer nodal axis at a distance greater than 25%, more preferably 40%, of the maximum dimension of the base structure assembly.

[0614] Preferably, the distal mount is relatively more flexible or compliant with respect to movement than the nodal axis mount(s).

[0615] In one embodiment, each nodal axis mount comprises a pin extending laterally from one side of the transducer base structure, the pin extending generally parallel to the nodal axis and rigidly connected to the base structure, the nodal axis mount further comprising a bushing around which the pin is coupled to the housing of the device.

[0616] Preferably, the decoupling mounting system is constructed from a flexible material having a mechanical loss factor at about 24 degrees Celsius of greater than 0.2, or greater than 0.4, or greater than 0.8, and most preferably greater than 1.

[0617] Preferably, the decoupling mounting system is positioned relative to the base structural assembly and has a level of compliance that causes the transducer nodal axis position in the first operating state to substantially match the nodal axis position in the second operating state.

[0618] Preferably, the diaphragm body has a maximum thickness that is at least 11% of the maximum linear dimension of the body, and more preferably, the maximum thickness is at least 14% of the maximum linear dimension of the body.

[0619] In some embodiments, the thickness of the diaphragm body is tapered, decreasing in thickness toward a distal region, while in other embodiments, the thickness of the diaphragm body is stepped, decreasing in thickness toward a region distal to the center of mass of the diaphragm.

[0620] Preferably, the rotatable connection is sufficiently compliant so that diaphragm resonance modes other than the fundamental mode are promoted by this compliance and affect the frequency response by more than 2 dB, but this occurs below FRO.

[0621] Alternatively, the portion of the hinge mechanism that facilitates movement and transfers translational loads between the diaphragm and the transducer base structure is made from a material having a Young's modulus greater than about 8 GPa, and more preferably greater than about 20 GPa.

[0622] Preferably, the hinge mechanism comprises a substantially rigid first component that joins but does not couple with a substantially rigid second component in a substantially stable manner. Alternatively, the hinge mechanism incorporates a thin-walled spring component formed from a material having a Young's modulus greater than about 8 GPa, more preferably greater than about 20 GPa.

[0623] Preferably, the diaphragm body is formed from a core material with a three-dimensional non-uniform, interconnected structure. The core material may be a foam or a material with a regular three-dimensional lattice structure. The core material may be composed of a composite material. Preferably, the core material is expanded polystyrene foam. Alternative materials include polymethylmethacrylamide foam, polyvinyl chloride foam, polyurethane foam, polyethylene foam, aerogel foam, cardboard, balsa wood, syntactic foam, metal microlattice, and honeycomb.

[0624] Preferably, the diaphragm incorporates one or more materials having a Young's modulus greater than about 8 GPa, more preferably greater than about 20 GPa, and most preferably greater than about 100 GPa, which helps the diaphragm resist bending.

[0625] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for producing a pharmaceutical composition comprising: an audio transducer having a rotatably mounted diaphragm and a translation mechanism configured to operatively translate the rotational movement of the diaphragm into an electronic audio signal and into a corresponding sound pressure; a transducer housing comprising a baffle and / or enclosure configured to house an audio transducer therein; and A decoupling mounting system disposed between a diaphragm of an audio transducer and an associated transducer housing to at least partially mitigate mechanical transmission of vibrations between the diaphragm and the enclosure transducer housing and to flexibly mount a first component of an audio device to a second component. It can be said that it consists of an audio device equipped with

[0626] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for producing a pharmaceutical composition comprising: an audio transducer having a rotatably mounted diaphragm and a translation mechanism configured to operatively translate the rotational movement of the diaphragm into an electronic audio signal and a corresponding sound pressure; A decoupling mounting system disposed between a first portion or assembly incorporating an audio transducer and at least one other portion or assembly of an audio device to at least partially mitigate mechanical transmission of vibrations between the first portion or assembly and the at least one other portion or assembly and to flexibly mount the first portion or assembly of the audio device to a second portion or assembly. It can be said that it consists of an audio device equipped with

[0627] Preferably, this first part is a transducer housing comprising a baffle or enclosure for accommodating an audio transducer therein.

[0628] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for producing a pharmaceutical composition comprising: an audio transducer having a rotatably mounted diaphragm and a translation mechanism configured to operatively translate the rotational movement of the diaphragm into an electronic audio signal and into a corresponding sound pressure; a transducer housing comprising a baffle or enclosure configured to house an audio transducer therein; and A decoupling mounting system that flexibly mounts an audio transducer to a baffle or enclosure and at least partially reduces the mechanical transmission of vibration between the diaphragm and the transducer housing. It can be said that it consists of an audio device equipped with

[0629] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for producing a pharmaceutical composition comprising: an audio transducer having a rotatably mounted diaphragm and a translation mechanism configured to operatively translate the rotational movement of the diaphragm into an electronic audio signal and into a corresponding sound pressure; a headband configured to be worn by a user and to position the audio transducer in close proximity to one or both ears of the user when in use; At least one decoupling mounting system disposed between the headband and the audio transducer to at least partially mitigate mechanical transmission of vibrations between the audio transducer and the headband, each mounting system flexibly mounting a first component to a second component of the audio device. It can be said that it consists of an audio device equipped with

[0630] Preferably, the decoupling mounting system is constructed from a resilient material such as rubber, silicone, or a viscoelastic urethane polymer.

[0631] In one configuration, the decoupling mounting system includes a ferrofluid to provide support between the first component and the second component.

[0632] In one configuration, the decoupling mounting system uses magnetic repulsion to provide support between a first component and a second component.

[0633] In one configuration, the decoupling mounting system comprises a fluid or gel to provide support between the first component and the second component.

[0634] In one configuration, the fluid or gel is contained within a capsule constructed from a flexible material.

[0635] Alternatively, or additionally, at least one of these mounting systems includes a metal spring or other metallic resilient member.

[0636] Alternatively, or additionally, at least one of the mounting systems comprises a member formed from a soft plastic material.

[0637] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for producing a pharmaceutical composition comprising: an audio transducer having a rotatably mounted diaphragm and a translation mechanism configured to operatively translate the rotational movement of the diaphragm into an electronic audio signal and a corresponding sound pressure; a decoupling mounting system disposed between a diaphragm of an audio transducer and at least one other portion of an audio device to at least partially mitigate mechanical transmission of vibrations between the diaphragm and at least one other portion of the audio device, and flexibly mounting a first component of the audio device to a second component, the diaphragm comprising a diaphragm body having a maximum thickness that is at least 11% of a maximum linear dimension of the body; It can be said to consist of audio devices.

[0638] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for producing a pharmaceutical composition comprising: an audio transducer having a movable diaphragm and a conversion mechanism configured to operatively convert the movement of the diaphragm into an electronic audio signal and a corresponding sound pressure; a decoupling mounting system between a first portion incorporating an audio transducer and at least one other portion of an audio device, at least partially mitigating mechanical transmission of vibrations between the first portion and the at least one other portion, and flexibly mounting the first component to a second component of the audio device, wherein the diaphragm of the audio transducer comprises a diaphragm body having a peripheral edge that is at least partially not physically coupled to the interior of the first portion; It can be said to consist of audio devices.

[0639] Preferably, this first portion comprises a housing comprising a baffle or enclosure for accommodating an associated audio transducer therein.

[0640] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for producing a pharmaceutical composition comprising: an audio transducer having a movable diaphragm and a conversion mechanism configured to operatively convert the movement of the diaphragm into an electronic audio signal and a corresponding sound pressure; a transducer housing comprising a baffle or enclosure for accommodating an audio transducer therein; and a decoupling mounting system for flexibly mounting an audio transducer to an associated transducer housing to at least partially mitigate mechanical transmission of vibrations between the audio transducer and the transducer housing, wherein the diaphragm of the audio transducer comprises a diaphragm body having an outer periphery that is at least partially not physically coupled to the interior of the transducer housing; It can be said to consist of audio devices.

[0641] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for producing a pharmaceutical composition comprising: an audio transducer having a movable diaphragm and a conversion mechanism configured to operatively convert the movement of the diaphragm into an electronic audio signal and a corresponding sound pressure; a decoupling mounting system between a first portion incorporating an audio transducer and at least one other portion of the audio device, the decoupling mounting system at least partially mitigating mechanical transmission of vibrations between the first portion and the at least one other portion, and flexibly mounting the first component to a second component of the audio device; the diaphragm of the audio transducer comprises a diaphragm body having an outer periphery at least partially uncoupled from the interior of the first portion; the diaphragm body has a maximum thickness that is at least 11% of the maximum linear dimension of the body; It can be said to consist of audio devices.

[0642] Preferably, at least one other part of the audio device has a mass at least as large as the first part, more preferably at least 60%, or 40%, or most preferably at least 20% larger than the mass of the first part.

[0643] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for producing a pharmaceutical composition comprising: an audio transducer having a movable diaphragm and a conversion mechanism configured to operatively convert the movement of the diaphragm into an electronic audio signal and a corresponding sound pressure; a decoupling mounting system between a first portion incorporating an audio transducer and at least one other portion of an audio device, the decoupling mounting system at least partially mitigating mechanical transmission of vibrations between the first portion and the at least one other portion, and flexibly mounting the first component of the audio device to a second component, the diaphragm comprising a diaphragm body having a maximum thickness that is at least 11% of a maximum linear dimension of the body; It can be said to consist of audio devices.

[0644] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for producing a pharmaceutical composition comprising: an audio transducer having a movable diaphragm and a conversion mechanism configured to operatively convert the movement of the diaphragm into an electronic audio signal and a corresponding sound pressure; a transducer housing comprising a baffle or enclosure for accommodating an audio transducer therein; and a decoupling mounting system for flexibly mounting an audio transducer to a transducer housing to at least partially mitigate mechanical transmission of vibrations between the audio transducer and the transducer housing, the diaphragm comprising a diaphragm body having a maximum thickness that is at least 11% of a maximum linear dimension of the body; It can be said to consist of audio devices.

[0645] In some implementations of any one of aspects 17-28 above, the audio device may include two or more audio transducers and / or two or more decoupling mounting systems as defined under that aspect.

[0646] In some embodiments, in any one of the above aspects comprising an audio device having a decoupling mounting system, the diaphragm preferably comprises one or more peripheral regions that are not physically coupled to the interior of the first portion. Preferably, the periphery is significantly physically free, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 20%, and more preferably at least 30%, of the length or circumference of the periphery. More preferably, the periphery is substantially physically free, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 50%, and more preferably at least 80%, of the length or circumference of the periphery. Most preferably, the periphery is approximately completely free of physical coupling, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise approximately the entire length or circumference of the periphery.

[0647] In one configuration, there is a small air gap between one or more peripheral regions of the diaphragm body periphery that are not connected to the enclosure interior and the enclosure interior.

[0648] Preferably, the size of the air gap is less than 1 / 20 of the length of the diaphragm body.

[0649] Preferably, the size of the air gap is less than 1 mm.

[0650] In another configuration, the diaphragm is supported by a ferrofluid.

[0651] Preferably, a substantial proportion of the support provided to the diaphragm against translational movement in a direction substantially parallel to the coronal plane of the diaphragm body is provided by the ferrofluid.

[0652] Preferably, the diaphragm comprises a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and connected near at least one of said major faces to resist compressive-tensile stresses experienced at or near this face of the body during operation.

[0653] In another aspect, the invention generally relates to an audio device according to any one of the above aspects, including a decoupling mounting system, wherein the diaphragm comprises: a diaphragm body having one or more major surfaces; a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and connected near at least one of said major surfaces to resist compressive-tensile stresses experienced at or near this surface of the body during operation; and at least one internal reinforcing member embedded in the body and oriented at an angle to at least one of said major surfaces to resist and / or substantially reduce shear deformations experienced by the body during operation; It can be said to consist of audio devices.

[0654] Preferably, in either one of the above two aspects, the mass distribution associated with the diaphragm body or the mass distribution associated with the normal stress stiffeners, or both, is such that the diaphragm has a relatively small mass in one or more low-mass regions of the diaphragm compared to the mass in one or more relatively high-mass regions of the diaphragm.

[0655] Preferably, the diaphragm body has a relatively small mass in one or more regions distal to the location of the centre of mass of the diaphragm. Preferably, the thickness of the diaphragm decreases towards the periphery distal to the centre of mass.

[0656] Alternatively, or additionally, the mass distribution of the normal stress stiffener is such that a relatively small mass is located in one or more peripheral edge regions of the associated major surface distal to the center of mass location of the assembled diaphragm.

[0657] In some embodiments of any one of the above audio device aspects, the at least one audio transducer is a linear-motion transducer. Preferably, the diaphragm comprises a substantially curved diaphragm body. Preferably, the diaphragm body is a substantially dome-shaped body. Preferably, the body has sufficient thickness and / or depth such that the body is substantially rigid during operation. For example, the body may be relatively thin, but the overall depth of the dome-shaped body may be at least 15% greater than the body's maximum linear dimension. Preferably, the audio transducer further comprises a diaphragm base frame rigidly connected to the outer periphery of the diaphragm body and extending longitudinally therefrom. Preferably, the excitation mechanism comprises one or more force-transmitting components connected to the base frame. Preferably, the one or more force-transmitting components comprise one or more coil windings wound around the diaphragm base frame. Preferably, a ring of ferrofluid extends around the inner periphery of each gap to suspend the diaphragm. Preferably, the diaphragm base frame and the diaphragm are not physically interlocked around substantially the entirety of their associated perimeters.

[0658] In another aspect, the invention may comprise an audio device comprising two or more electroacoustic speakers incorporating any one or more of the audio transducers of the above aspects and providing two or more distinct audio channels capable of reproducing independent audio signals. Preferably, the audio device is a personal audio device adapted for audio within about 10 cm of a user's ears.

[0659] In another aspect, the invention may be said to comprise a personal audio device incorporating any combination of one or more audio transducers and their associated features, configurations and embodiments of any one of the preceding audio transducer aspects.

[0660] In another aspect, the invention can be said to consist in a personal audio device comprising a pair of interface devices configured to be worn by a user at or near each ear, each interface device comprising one or more audio transducers and any combination of their associated features, configurations and embodiments of any one of the preceding audio transducer aspects.

[0661] In another aspect, the invention may be said to comprise a headphone apparatus comprising a pair of headphone interface devices configured to be worn on or about each ear, each interface device comprising one or more audio transducers and any combination of their associated features, configurations and embodiments of any one of the preceding audio transducer aspects.

[0662] In another aspect, the invention can be said to comprise an earphone device comprising a pair of earphone interfaces configured to be fitted within the ear canal or concha of a user's ear, each earphone interface comprising one or more audio transducers and any combination of their associated features, configurations and embodiments of any one of the preceding audio transducer aspects.

[0663] In another aspect, the invention may comprise the audio transducer of any one of the above aspects, and related features, configurations, and embodiments, wherein the audio transducer is an acoustoelectric transducer.

[0664] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for producing a pharmaceutical composition comprising: at least one audio transducer having a movable diaphragm and a translation mechanism configured to operatively translate diaphragm movement into an electronic audio signal and into a corresponding sound pressure; an enclosure for housing at least one audio transducer therein; and The audio device may comprise a decoupling mounting system that flexibly mounts the enclosure to a surrounding support structure to at least partially reduce mechanical transmission of vibrations between the at least one audio transducer and the support structure, and the diaphragm of the at least one audio transducer comprises a diaphragm body having an outer periphery that is at least partially not physically connected to the interior of the transducer housing.

[0665] Preferably, the device is a computer speaker or the like, which may have dimensions that are, for example, less than about 0.8 m in height, less than about 0.4 m in width, and / or less than about 0.3 m in depth.

[0666] In another configuration, the diaphragm is supported by a ferrofluid.

[0667] Preferably, a substantial proportion of the support provided to the diaphragm against translational movement in a direction substantially parallel to the coronal plane of the diaphragm body is provided by the ferrofluid.

[0668] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for producing a pharmaceutical composition comprising: at least one audio transducer having a movable diaphragm and a translation mechanism configured to operatively translate diaphragm movement into an electronic audio signal and a corresponding sound pressure; an enclosure for housing at least one audio transducer therein, the enclosure configured for use with a decoupling mounting system for flexibly mounting the enclosure to a surrounding support structure to at least partially mitigate mechanical transmission of vibrations between the at least one audio transducer and the support structure, the diaphragm of the at least one audio transducer comprising a diaphragm body having an outer periphery that is at least partially physically free from coupling with an interior of the transducer housing; It can be said to consist of audio devices.

[0669] In another aspect, the present invention provides a personal audio device for use in personal audio applications that is typically positioned within about 10 centimeters of a user's head during use, comprising: at least one audio transducer having a diaphragm and an excitation mechanism configured, in use, to act on the diaphragm in response to an electronic signal to cause movement of the diaphragm and generate sound; at least one housing associated with each audio transducer, the housing comprising an enclosure or baffle for accommodating the audio transducers; The diaphragm of one or more audio transducers has an outer periphery that is not at least partially physically coupled to the interior of the associated housing; It can be said to consist of personal audio devices.

[0670] Preferably, the diaphragm has one or more peripheral regions that are not physically connected to the interior of the housing. Preferably, the periphery is significantly physically disconnected, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 20%, and more preferably at least 30%, of the length or circumference of the periphery. More preferably, the periphery is substantially physically disconnected, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 50%, and more preferably at least 80%, of the length or circumference of the periphery. Most preferably, the periphery is approximately completely free of physical connection, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise approximately the entire length or circumference of the periphery.

[0671] Preferably, all areas of the diaphragm's periphery that move any appreciable distance during normal operation are more or less completely free of physical connection with the interior of the housing.

[0672] In some embodiments, one or more peripheral regions of the diaphragm that are not physically coupled to the interior of the housing are supported by a fluid. Preferably, the fluid is a ferrofluid. Preferably, the ferrofluid seals or is in direct contact with the one or more peripheral regions supported by the ferrofluid, such that the ferrofluid substantially prevents air flow therebetween.

[0673] Preferably, the audio device comprises at least one decoupling mounting system disposed between the diaphragm of at least one of the audio transducers and at least one other part of the audio device to at least partially mitigate mechanical transmission of vibrations between the diaphragm and at least one other part of the audio device, each decoupling mounting system flexibly mounting a first component to a second component of the audio device.

[0674] In some embodiments, the diaphragm of one or more audio transducers a diaphragm body having one or more main surfaces; a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and adjacent at least one of the major surfaces to resist compressive-tensile stresses experienced at or adjacent the surface of the body during operation; and at least one internal reinforcing member embedded in the body and oriented at an angle to at least one of said major surfaces to resist and / or substantially reduce shear deformations experienced by the body during operation.

[0675] Preferably the diaphragm is rigidly attached to a force transmission component of the excitation mechanism. Preferably the force transmission component remains substantially rigid in use.

[0676] Preferably, the force transmitting component comprises a conductive component receiving a current representing the audio signal. Preferably, the conductive component functions according to Lenz's law. Preferably, the conductive component is a coil. Preferably, the excitation mechanism further comprises a magnetic element or structure generating a magnetic field, the conductive component being positioned within the field magnetic field. Preferably, the magnetic structure or element comprises a permanent magnet.

[0677] Preferably, the housing includes one or more openings for transmitting sound generated by movement of the diaphragm, in use, to the user's ear canal.

[0678] In some embodiments, at least one of the audio transducers is a linear motion transducer. Preferably, the diaphragm comprises a substantially curved diaphragm body. Preferably, the diaphragm body is a substantially dome-shaped body. Preferably, the body has sufficient thickness and / or depth such that the body is substantially rigid during operation. For example, the body may be relatively thin, but the overall depth of the dome-shaped body may be at least 15% greater than the maximum linear dimension of the body. Preferably, the audio transducer further comprises a diaphragm base frame rigidly connected to the periphery of the diaphragm body and extending longitudinally therefrom. Preferably, the excitation mechanism comprises one or more force transmission components connected to the base frame. Preferably, the one or more force transmission components comprise one or more coil windings wound around the diaphragm base frame. Preferably, the multiple components are distributed along the length of the diaphragm base frame. Preferably, the excitation mechanism further comprises a magnetic structure or assembly that generates a magnetic field in a region in which the one or more coil windings are located during operation. Preferably, the magnetic structure comprises opposing pole pieces that generate a magnetic field in one or more gaps formed between the pole pieces. Preferably, the diaphragm base frame extends within the one or more gaps. Preferably, in the diaphragm's neutral position, the one or more coils are aligned with the one or more gaps. Preferably, the audio transducer comprises a pair of coils and an associated pair of magnetic field gaps. Preferably, the diaphragm assembly undergoes reciprocating linear motion relative to the magnetic structure during operation. Preferably, a ring of ferrofluid extends around the inner periphery of each gap to suspend the diaphragm. Preferably, the diaphragm base frame and the diaphragm are not physically coupled around approximately the entire associated periphery.

[0679] In some embodiments, the audio device further comprises at least one decoupling mounting system for mounting the audio transducer within an associated housing. Preferably, the decoupling mounting system is disposed between the diaphragm of the audio transducer and at least one other portion of the audio device to at least partially mitigate mechanical transmission of vibrations between the diaphragm assembly and at least one other portion of the audio device and flexibly mounts, directly or indirectly, a first component of the audio device to a second component. In some embodiments, the decoupling system comprises a plurality of flexible mounting blocks. Preferably, the mounting blocks are distributed around the outer periphery of the first component and rigidly couple to the outer periphery of the first component on one side and to the inner periphery of the second component on the opposite side.

[0680] In some embodiments, one or more regions of the diaphragm's periphery that are not physically connected to the interior of the housing are separated from the interior of the housing by an air gap. Preferably, a relatively small air gap separates the interior of the housing from one or more peripheral regions of the diaphragm. Preferably, the width of the air gap defined by the distance between each peripheral region and the housing is less than 1 / 10, more preferably less than 1 / 20, of the length of the diaphragm. Preferably, the width of the air gap defined by the distance between one or more peripheral regions of the diaphragm and the housing is less than 1.5 mm, more preferably less than 1 mm, and even more preferably less than 0.5 mm.

[0681] In some embodiments, the mass distribution associated with the diaphragm body or the mass distribution associated with the normal stress stiffeners, or both, is such that the diaphragm has a relatively small mass in one or more low-mass regions of the diaphragm compared to the mass in one or more relatively high-mass regions of the diaphragm.

[0682] Preferably, the one or more regions of low mass are in peripheral regions distal to the centroid of the diaphragm, and the one or more regions of high mass are at or proximal to the centroid.

[0683] Preferably, the low mass regions are at one end of the diaphragm and the high mass regions are at the opposite end, and preferably the low mass regions are distributed substantially around the periphery of the diaphragm and the high mass regions are in a central region of the diaphragm.

[0684] Preferably, the mass distribution of the normal stress stiffener is such that a relatively small mass is located in one or more low mass regions.

[0685] Alternatively or additionally, the mass distribution of the diaphragm body is such that the diaphragm body has a relatively low mass at one or more low mass regions, and preferably the thickness of the diaphragm body decreases by tapering, preferably from a center of mass location towards the one or more low mass regions.

[0686] In some embodiments, at least one audio transducer is a rotationally actuated audio transducer. Preferably, the audio transducer comprises a transducer base structure and a hinge system for rotatably connecting the diaphragm to the transducer base structure. Preferably, the diaphragm has a substantially rigid structure. Preferably, the diaphragm comprises a diaphragm body having external normal stress stiffeners connected to one or more major surfaces. Preferably, the diaphragm comprises internal stress stiffeners embedded in the diaphragm body. Preferably, the diaphragm has a substantially thick diaphragm body. Preferably, the diaphragm body has a thickness that is substantially tapered along the length of the body. Preferably, the thickened base end of the diaphragm body is rigidly connected to a diaphragm base frame of the audio transducer. Preferably, the excitation mechanism comprises a force transmission component rigidly connected to the diaphragm base frame. Preferably, the force transmission component comprises one or more coils. Preferably, the transducer base structure comprises a magnetic structure configured to generate a magnetic field in a channel that is followed by the force transmitting component during operation. Preferably, the channel is formed between an outer pole piece and an inner pole piece of the magnetic structure. Preferably, the channel is substantially curved, and the transducer base structure plate to which the coil is rigidly attached is similarly curved.

[0687] In one form, a hinge system includes a hinge assembly having one or more hinge connections, each hinge connection including a hinge element and a contact member, the contact member having a contact surface, and configured to allow the hinge element to move relative to an associated contact member while maintaining substantially stable physical contact with the contact surface during operation, the hinge assembly biasing the hinge element toward the contact surface. Preferably, the hinge system includes a biasing mechanism for biasing each hinge element toward the associated contact surface.

[0688] In one configuration, the biasing mechanism comprises a resilient member, such as a spring, operatively compressed against the respective hinge element. In another alternative configuration, the biasing mechanism comprises a magnetic mechanism comprising a magnetic field generating structure and ferromagnetic hinge elements.

[0689] In one configuration, each contact surface is substantially concavely curved, at least in cross section, and each associated hinge element has a contact surface that is substantially convexly curved, at least in cross section. Preferably, the concavely curved contact surface has a larger radius of curvature than the convexly curved contact surface. In another configuration, each contact surface is substantially planar, and the associated hinge element has a contact surface that is convexly curved, at least in cross section.

[0690] Preferably, the hinge system comprises a pair of hinge connections configured to be located on left and right sides of the diaphragm. Preferably, the hinge elements are rigidly connected to the diaphragm, and the contact members are rigidly connected to and extend from the transducer base structure.

[0691] In yet another form, the hinge system comprises at least one hinge connection, each hinge connection pivotally connecting the diaphragm to the transducer base structure to allow the diaphragm to rotate relative to the transducer base structure about an axis of rotation during operation, the hinge connection comprising at least two resilient hinge elements rigidly coupled to the transducer base structure on one side and to the diaphragm on the other side and canted relative to each other, each hinge element intimately coupled to both the transducer base structure and the diaphragm, and having substantial translational stiffness to resist compressive, tensile, and / or shear deformation along and across the element during operation, and substantial flexibility to allow bending in response to forces normal to the element. In some configurations, each flexible hinge element of each hinge connection is substantially flexible in bending. Preferably, each hinge element is substantially rigid in torsion. In an alternative configuration, each flexible hinge element of each hinge connection is substantially torsionally flexible. Preferably, each flexible hinge element is substantially bendingly rigid.

[0692] Preferably, the audio device further comprises at least one decoupling mounting system for mounting the audio transducer within an associated housing. Preferably, the decoupling mounting system is disposed between the diaphragm of the audio transducer and at least one other part of the audio device to at least partially mitigate mechanical transmission of vibrations between the diaphragm and the at least one other part of the audio device and to flexibly mount, directly or indirectly, a first component of the audio device to a second component. Preferably, the decoupling mounting system at least partially mitigate mechanical transmission of vibrations between the diaphragm and the at least one other part of the audio device along at least one translational axis, and more preferably along at least two substantially orthogonal translational axes, and even more preferably along three substantially orthogonal translational axes. Preferably, the decoupling mounting system at least partially mitigates mechanical transmission of vibrations between the diaphragm and at least one other part of the audio device about at least one axis of rotation, and more preferably about at least two substantially orthogonal axes of rotation, and even more preferably about three substantially orthogonal axes of rotation. Preferably, the decoupling mounting system connects between the transducer base structure and the interior of the housing. Preferably, the decoupling system comprises at least one nodal axis mount configured to be located at or proximal to a nodal axis location associated with the transducer base structure. Preferably, the decoupling system comprises at least one distal mount configured to be located distal to a nodal axis location associated with the transducer base structure. Preferably, the at least one nodal axis mount is relatively less compliant and / or relatively less flexible than the at least one distal mount.

[0693] In some embodiments, the audio device comprises at least one interface device, each interface device comprising a housing of the at least one housing and incorporating at least one of the one or more audio transducers therein. Preferably, each interface device is configured to engage a user's head to position an associated audio transducer relative to the user's ear. Preferably, the interface is configured to position the associated audio transducer at or proximate to the user's ear canal.

[0694] Preferably, the audio device comprises a pair of interface devices, one for each ear of the user.

[0695] In one form, each interface device is a headphone cup. Preferably, each headphone cup includes an interface pad configured to be positioned at or around a user's ear. Preferably, the pad includes a sealing element for creating a substantial seal around the user's ear in use. Preferably, the audio device further includes a headband extending between the headphone cups and configured to be positioned around the crown of the user's head in use.

[0696] In another form, each interface device is an earphone interface. Preferably, each earphone interface includes an interface plug configured to be positioned at, near, or within a user's ear canal during use. Preferably, the interface plug includes a sealing element for creating a substantial seal at, near, or within the user's ear canal.

[0697] In one form, the earphone interface comprises a substantially longitudinal interface channel audibly connected to the diaphragm and configured to be positioned in close proximity to the user's ear canal, preferably comprising a sound-deadening insert, such as foam or other porous or breathable element, at a throat of the channel.

[0698] Preferably, the audio device comprises at least one audio transducer having a FRO that includes a frequency range from 160 Hz to 6 kHz, more preferably from 120 Hz to 8 kHz, more preferably from 100 Hz to 10 kHz, even more preferably from 80 Hz to 12 kHz, and most preferably from 60 Hz to 14 kHz.

[0699] Preferably, each interface device comprises no more than three audio transducers collectively having a FRO that includes the frequency range of 160 Hz to 6 kHz, and more preferably the frequency range of 120 Hz to 8 kHz, and more preferably the frequency range of 100 Hz to 10 kHz, and even more preferably the frequency range of 80 Hz to 12 kHz, and most preferably the frequency range of 60 Hz to 14 kHz.

[0700] Preferably, each interface device comprises no more than two audio transducers collectively having a FRO that includes the frequency range of 160 Hz to 6 kHz, and more preferably the frequency range of 120 Hz to 8 kHz, and more preferably the frequency range of 100 Hz to 10 kHz, and even more preferably the frequency range of 80 Hz to 12 kHz, and most preferably the frequency range of 60 Hz to 14 kHz.

[0701] Preferably, each interface device comprises a single audio transducer having an FRO that includes the frequency range of 160 Hz to 6 kHz, and more preferably the frequency range of 120 Hz to 8 kHz, and more preferably the frequency range of 100 Hz to 10 kHz, and even more preferably the frequency range of 80 Hz to 12 kHz, and most preferably the frequency range of 60 Hz to 14 kHz.

[0702] Preferably, each interface device is configured to create a sufficient seal between an internal air cavity on one side of the interface device that is configured to be positioned near a user's ear in use and the air outside the device.

[0703] Preferably, the housing associated with each interface device includes at least one fluid passageway from the first cavity to a second cavity disposed opposite the first cavity of the device, or from the first cavity to air external to the device, or both.

[0704] Preferably, each fluid passage provides a substantially restrictive fluid path for substantially restricting the flow of gas therethrough in situ and during operation. The fluid passage may have a reduced diameter or width at the junction with the air on either side and / or may comprise a fluid flow restricting element. The fluid flow restricting element may be a porous or breathable cover or insert disposed at or within the passage.

[0705] In some embodiments, the interface device comprises a first fluid passageway extending between a first front cavity on one side of a diaphragm configured to be positioned near a user's ear in use and a second rear cavity on the opposite side of the diaphragm. Preferably, the first fluid passageway comprises a fluid passageway with an entrance area that is substantially reduced compared to the cross-sectional areas of the first and second cavities. In some embodiments, the first fluid passageway is disposed just around the periphery of the diaphragm. In other embodiments, the first cavity is disposed through an interior wall of the transducer base structure or housing.

[0706] In some embodiments, the interface device includes a first or second fluid passageway from the first front cavity to the external atmosphere. In some configurations, the fluid passageway includes an inlet area that is substantially reduced relative to the cross-sectional area of ​​the adjacent air. In some other configurations, the fluid passageway includes an inlet area that is substantially large relative to the cross-sectional area of ​​the first front cavity and incorporates a flow-restricting element that substantially restricts the flow of gas therethrough.

[0707] In some embodiments, the audio device is a mobile phone.

[0708] In some embodiments, the audio device is a hearing aid.

[0709] In some embodiments, the audio device is a microphone.

[0710] In another aspect, the present invention provides a headphone apparatus comprising a pair of headphone interface devices configured to be positioned around each of a user's ears in use, each interface device comprising: at least one audio transducer having a diaphragm and an excitation mechanism configured, in use, to act on the diaphragm in response to an electronic signal to cause movement of the diaphragm and generate sound; at least one housing associated with each audio transducer, the housing comprising an enclosure or baffle for accommodating the audio transducers; The diaphragm of one or more audio transducers has an outer periphery that is not at least partially physically coupled to the interior of the associated housing; It can be said that it is composed of a headphone device.

[0711] In another aspect, the present invention provides an earphone apparatus comprising a pair of earphone interface devices, each configured to be positioned in or near a user's ear canal in use, each interface device comprising: at least one audio transducer having a diaphragm and an excitation mechanism configured, in use, to act on the diaphragm in response to an electronic signal to cause movement of the diaphragm and generate sound; at least one housing associated with each audio transducer, the housing comprising an enclosure or baffle for accommodating the audio transducers; The diaphragm of one or more audio transducers has an outer periphery that is not at least partially physically coupled to the interior of the associated housing; It can be said that it is composed of an earphone device.

[0712] In another aspect, the present invention provides a mobile phone including an audio device, the audio device comprising: at least one audio transducer having a diaphragm and an excitation mechanism configured, in use, to act on the diaphragm in response to an electronic signal to cause movement of the diaphragm and generate sound; at least one housing associated with each audio transducer, the housing comprising an enclosure or baffle for accommodating the audio transducers; The diaphragm of one or more audio transducers has an outer periphery that is not at least partially physically coupled to the interior of the associated housing; It can be said that it consists of mobile phones.

[0713] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for producing a pharmaceutical composition comprising: at least one audio transducer having a diaphragm and an excitation mechanism configured, in use, to act on the diaphragm in response to an electronic signal to cause movement of the diaphragm and generate sound; 1. A hearing aid comprising at least one housing associated with each audio transducer, the housing comprising an enclosure or baffle for accommodating the audio transducers, The diaphragm of one or more audio transducers has an outer periphery that is not at least partially physically coupled to the interior of the associated housing; It can be said to consist of hearing aids.

[0714] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method for producing a pharmaceutical composition comprising: at least one audio transducer having a diaphragm and a conversion mechanism configured to convert sound-induced diaphragm motion into an electrical audio signal; 1. A microphone comprising at least one housing associated with each audio transducer, the housing comprising an enclosure or baffle for accommodating the audio transducers, The diaphragm of one or more audio transducers has an outer periphery that is not at least partially physically coupled to the interior of the associated housing; It is a microphone.

[0715] In another aspect, the present invention provides a personal audio device for use in personal audio applications that is typically positioned within about 10 centimeters of a user's head during use, comprising: at least one audio transducer having a diaphragm and an excitation mechanism configured, in use, to act on the diaphragm in response to an electronic signal to cause movement of the diaphragm and generate sound; at least one housing associated with each audio transducer, the housing comprising an enclosure or baffle for accommodating the audio transducers; The diaphragm of one or more audio transducers is not substantially completely physically coupled with the interior of the associated housing; Consists of personal audio devices.

[0716] In another aspect, the present invention provides a personal audio device for use in personal audio applications that is typically positioned within about 10 centimeters of a user's head during use, comprising: at least one audio transducer having a diaphragm and an excitation mechanism configured, in use, to act on the diaphragm in response to an electronic signal to cause movement of the diaphragm and generate sound; at least one housing associated with each audio transducer, the housing comprising an enclosure or baffle for accommodating the audio transducers; at least one audio transducer associated with the at least one housing, the at least one audio transducer including a suspension connecting a periphery of the diaphragm to the housing; The suspension connects the diaphragm only partially around the perimeter of the perimeter. Consists of personal audio devices.

[0717] Preferably, the suspension connects the diaphragm along less than 80% of the circumference of the perimeter, more preferably, the suspension connects the diaphragm along less than 50% of the circumference of the perimeter, and most preferably, the suspension connects the diaphragm along less than 20% of the circumference of the perimeter.

[0718] The suspension may be, for example, a solid surround or a sealing element.

[0719] In another aspect, the present invention provides an earphone apparatus comprising at least one earphone interface device configured to be positioned within a concha of a user's ear in situ, each earphone interface device comprising: an audio transducer having a diaphragm and an excitation mechanism configured, in use, to act on the diaphragm in response to an electronic signal to move the diaphragm and generate sound; a housing configured to be held within the concha of a user's ear in use, the housing comprising an enclosure or baffle for containing an audio transducer; the diaphragm of the audio transducer comprises one or more peripheral regions around the periphery of the diaphragm that are not physically connected to the interior of the housing; a relatively small air gap separates the interior of the housing from the one or more peripheral regions of the diaphragm; It can also be said to be composed of an earphone device.

[0720] Preferably, the perimeter is significantly free of physical interconnections, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 20%, and more preferably at least 30%, of the length or circumference of the perimeter. More preferably, the perimeter is substantially free of physical interconnections, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 50%, and more preferably at least 80%, of the length or circumference of the perimeter. Most preferably, the perimeter is approximately completely free of physical interconnections, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise approximately the entire length or circumference of the perimeter.

[0721] Preferably, the width of the air gap defined by the distance between each peripheral region and the housing is less than 1 / 10, more preferably less than 1 / 20 of the length of the diaphragm.

[0722] Preferably, the width of the air gap defined by the distance between one or more peripheral regions of the diaphragm and the housing is less than 1.5 mm, and more preferably less than 1 mm, and even more preferably less than 0.5 mm.

[0723] Preferably, the housing includes one or more openings for transmitting sound generated by movement of the diaphragm, in use, to the user's ear canal.

[0724] Preferably, the one or more openings are configured to be positioned inside the user's concha when the device is in place. Alternatively, the one or more openings are configured to be positioned inside the user's ear canal when the device is in place.

[0725] In some embodiments, the housing does not substantially seal between air in the ear canal and air outside the ear canal. Preferably, the housing does not provide a substantially continuous seal around the periphery of the user's ear canal. Preferably, the housing does not exert substantially continuous pressure against the periphery of the user's ear canal.

[0726] Preferably, the housing occludes the opening to the user's ear canal in situ to a degree that provides passive attenuation of less than 1 decibel (dB), or less than 2 dB, or less than 3 dB, or less than 6 dB of ambient sound at 70 Hertz.

[0727] Alternatively, or additionally, the housing occludes the opening to the user's ear canal in situ to a degree that produces passive attenuation of 120 hertz ambient sound by less than 1 decibel (dB), or less than 2 dB, or less than 3 dB, or less than 6 dB.

[0728] Alternatively, or additionally, the housing occludes the opening to the user's ear canal in situ to a degree that produces passive attenuation of 400 Hz ambient sound by less than 1 decibel (dB), or less than 2 dB, or less than 3 dB, or less than 6 dB.

[0729] In one embodiment, each earphone interface device comprises one audio transducer having a FRO that includes a frequency range from 160 Hz to 6 kHz, more preferably a frequency range from 120 Hz to 8 kHz, more preferably a frequency range from 100 Hz to 10 kHz, even more preferably a frequency range from 80 Hz to 12 kHz, and most preferably a frequency range from 60 Hz to 14 kHz.

[0730] Preferably, the earphone apparatus comprises a pair of earphone interface devices configured to be positioned within a user's ears to reproduce sound. Preferably, the earphone interface devices are configured to reproduce at least two independent audio signals.

[0731] Preferably, the FRO is reproduced without a sustained drop in sound pressure of more than 20 dB relative to the "diffuse field" criteria proposed by Hammershoi and Moller (2008), more preferably more than 14 dB, even more preferably more than 10 dB, and most preferably more than 6 dB.

[0732] Preferably, the FRO is reproduced at the bandwidth limit without a drop in sound pressure of more than 20 dB relative to the "diffuse field" criterion proposed by Hammershoi and Moller in 2008, more preferably more than 14 dB, even more preferably more than 10 dB, and most preferably more than 6 dB.

[0733] In a second embodiment, each earphone interface device has two or less audio transducers and collectively has a FRO that includes a frequency range from 160 Hz to 6 kHz, more preferably a frequency range from 120 Hz to 8 kHz, more preferably a frequency range from 100 Hz to 10 kHz, even more preferably a frequency range from 80 Hz to 12 kHz, and most preferably a frequency range from 60 Hz to 14 kHz.

[0734] In a third embodiment, each earphone interface device comprises three or less audio transducers collectively having a FRO that includes a frequency range of 160 Hz to 6 kHz, or more preferably a frequency range of 120 Hz to 8 kHz, or more preferably a frequency range of 100 Hz to 10 kHz, or even more preferably a frequency range of 80 Hz to 12 kHz, and most preferably a frequency range of 60 Hz to 14 kHz.

[0735] In another aspect, the present invention provides a personal audio device for use in personal audio applications that is typically positioned within about 10 centimeters of a user's head during use, comprising: at least one audio transducer having a diaphragm, a hinge assembly connected to the diaphragm, and an excitation mechanism that, in use, imparts substantial rotational movement to the diaphragm in response to an electronic signal; a housing having an enclosure or baffle for receiving an audio transducer; The diaphragm of the audio transducer remains substantially rigid during operation. It can also be said to consist of personal audio devices.

[0736] Preferably, the diaphragm remains substantially rigid across the FRO of the transducer during operation.

[0737] Preferably, the diaphragm has one or more peripheral regions that are not physically connected to the interior of the housing. Preferably, the periphery is significantly physically disconnected, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 20%, and more preferably at least 30%, of the length or circumference of the periphery. More preferably, the periphery is substantially physically disconnected, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 50%, and more preferably at least 80%, of the length or circumference of the periphery. Most preferably, the periphery is approximately completely free of physical connection, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise approximately the entire length or circumference of the periphery.

[0738] Preferably, the diaphragm comprises a diaphragm body that is substantially thick relative to the maximum dimension of the diaphragm body, preferably the maximum thickness of the diaphragm body is greater than 11% of the maximum length of the diaphragm body, and more preferably greater than 14% of this maximum length.

[0739] In some embodiments, the diaphragm of one or more audio transducers a diaphragm body having one or more main surfaces; a normal stress stiffener connected to the body and adjacent at least one of the major surfaces to resist compressive-tensile stresses experienced at or adjacent the surface of the body during operation; and at least one internal reinforcing member embedded in the body and oriented at an angle to at least one of said major surfaces to resist and / or substantially reduce shear deformations experienced by the body during operation.

[0740] In one form, a hinge system includes a hinge assembly having one or more hinge connections, each hinge connection including a hinge element and a contact member, the contact member having a contact surface, and configured to allow the hinge element to move relative to an associated contact member while maintaining substantially stable physical contact with the contact surface during operation, the hinge assembly biasing the hinge element toward the contact surface. Preferably, the hinge system includes a biasing mechanism for biasing each hinge element toward the associated contact surface.

[0741] In yet another form, the hinge system comprises at least one hinge connection, each hinge connection pivotally connecting the diaphragm to the transducer base structure to allow the diaphragm to rotate relative to the transducer base structure about an axis of rotation during operation, the hinge connection comprising at least two resilient hinge elements rigidly coupled to the transducer base structure on one side and to the diaphragm on the other side and canted relative to each other, each hinge element intimately coupled to both the transducer base structure and the diaphragm, and having substantial translational stiffness to resist compressive, tensile, and / or shear deformation along and across the element during operation, and substantial flexibility to allow bending in response to forces normal to the element. In some configurations, each flexible hinge element of each hinge connection is substantially flexible in bending. Preferably, each hinge element is substantially rigid in torsion. In an alternative configuration, each flexible hinge element of each hinge connection is substantially torsionally flexible. Preferably, each flexible hinge element is substantially bendingly rigid.

[0742] In another aspect, the present invention provides a personal audio device for use in personal audio applications that is typically positioned within about 10 centimeters of a user's head during use, comprising: an audio transducer having a diaphragm, a transducer base structure, a hinge assembly rotatably connecting the diaphragm to the transducer base structure, and an excitation mechanism that, in use, in response to an electronic signal, imparts substantial rotational movement to the diaphragm body, wherein the hinge system comprises at least one hinge connection, each hinge connection pivotally connecting the diaphragm to the transducer base structure to enable the diaphragm to rotate relative to the transducer base structure about an axis of rotation during operation, the hinge connection comprising at least two resilient hinge elements rigidly coupled to the transducer base structure on one side and to the diaphragm on an opposite side and canted relative to each other, each hinge element being intimately coupled to both the transducer base structure and the diaphragm, and comprising substantial translational stiffness to resist compressive, tensile and / or shear deformation along and across the element during operation, and substantial flexibility to permit bending in response to forces normal to the section thereof; It can be said to consist of personal audio devices.

[0743] In some embodiments, each flexible hinge element of each hinge connection is substantially flexible in bending. Preferably, each hinge element is substantially rigid in torsion.

[0744] In an alternative embodiment, each flexible hinge element of each hinge connection is substantially torsionally flexible. Preferably, each flexible hinge element is substantially bendingly rigid.

[0745] In another aspect, the present invention provides a personal audio device for use in personal audio applications that is typically positioned within about 10 centimeters of a user's head during use, comprising: an audio transducer having a diaphragm, a transducer base structure, a hinge system rotatably connecting the diaphragm assembly to the transducer base structure, and an excitation mechanism that, in use, in response to an electronic signal, imparts substantial rotational movement to the diaphragm, wherein the hinge system comprises a hinge assembly having one or more hinge connections, each hinge connection comprising a hinge element and a contact member, the contact member having a contact surface, and wherein, in operation, each hinge connection is configured to allow the hinge element to move relative to an associated contact member while maintaining substantially stable physical contact with the contact surface, and the hinge assembly biases the hinge element towards the contact surface; It can be said to consist of personal audio devices.

[0746] In another aspect, the present invention provides an earphone interface device configured to be placed substantially in or near the concha of a user's ear, the earphone interface device comprising: An audio transducer having a diaphragm with a diaphragm body, a hinge assembly connected to the diaphragm, and an excitation mechanism that, in use, in response to an electronic signal, imparts substantial rotational movement to the diaphragm body about an approximate axis of rotation; a housing having an enclosure or baffle for receiving an audio transducer; The diaphragm body of the audio transducer is substantially rigid during operation; The earphone interface device may also comprise an audio transducer diaphragm body having a thickness in at least one region that is greater than about 15% of the distance from the axis of rotation to the distal-most periphery of the diaphragm body, and more preferably, that thickness is greater than about 20% of that total distance.

[0747] In another aspect, the present invention provides an earphone interface device configured to be placed within a concha of a user's ear in situ, comprising: An audio transducer having a diaphragm, a hinge assembly connected to the diaphragm, and an excitation mechanism that, in use, imparts substantial rotational movement to the diaphragm in response to an electronic signal; a housing having an enclosure or baffle for receiving an audio transducer; the diaphragm of the audio transducer is substantially rigid during operation of the audio transducer; The portion of the excitation mechanism of the audio transducer that is coupled to the associated diaphragm is rigidly coupled; It can also be said to consist of an earphone interface device.

[0748] In another aspect, the present invention provides an earphone interface device configured to be placed within a concha of a user's ear in situ, comprising: An audio transducer having a diaphragm, a hinge assembly connected to the diaphragm, and an excitation mechanism that, in use, imparts substantial rotational movement to the diaphragm in response to an electronic signal; a housing having an enclosure or baffle for containing an audio transducer; the diaphragm of the audio transducer is substantially rigid during operation of the audio transducer; The diaphragm of the audio transducer has an outer periphery that is at least partially not physically connected to the interior of the housing; It can also be said to consist of an earphone interface device.

[0749] In another aspect, the present invention provides a personal audio device for use in personal audio applications that is typically positioned within about 10 centimeters of a user's head during use, comprising: an audio transducer having a diaphragm and an excitation mechanism configured, in use, to act on the diaphragm to move a diaphragm body and generate sound in response to an electronic signal; a housing having an enclosure or baffle for receiving an audio transducer; the diaphragm of the audio transducer has an outer periphery that is at least partially not physically connected to the interior of the housing; the audio device creates a sufficient seal between an internal air cavity on one side of the device that is configured to be positioned near a user's ear in use and the air outside the location of the device; an enclosure or baffle associated with the audio transducer comprising at least one fluid passageway from a first cavity to a second cavity disposed on an opposite side of the device from the first cavity, or from the first cavity to air external to the device, or both; It can be said to consist of personal audio devices.

[0750] Preferably, the diaphragm has one or more peripheral regions that are not physically connected to the interior of the housing. Preferably, the periphery is significantly physically disconnected, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 20%, and more preferably at least 30%, of the length or circumference of the periphery. More preferably, the periphery is substantially physically disconnected, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 50%, and more preferably at least 80%, of the length or circumference of the periphery. Most preferably, the periphery is approximately completely free of physical connection, such that the one or more peripheral regions comprise approximately the entire length or circumference of the periphery.

[0751] Preferably, each fluid passage provides a substantially restrictive fluid passageway for substantially restricting the flow of gas therethrough in situ and during operation. The fluid passageway may comprise apertures of reduced diameter or width at the junctions with the air on either side and / or may comprise a fluid flow restricting element, which may be a porous or breathable cover or insert disposed at or within the passageway.

[0752] In some embodiments, the interface device comprises a first fluid passageway extending between a first front cavity on one side of a diaphragm configured to be positioned near a user's ear in use and a second rear cavity on the opposite side of the diaphragm. Preferably, the first fluid passageway comprises an aperture with an entrance area that is substantially reduced relative to the cross-sectional areas of the first and second cavities. In some embodiments, the first fluid passageway is disposed immediately around the periphery of the diaphragm. In other embodiments, the first cavity is disposed through an interior wall of the transducer base structure or housing.

[0753] In some embodiments, the interface device includes a first or second fluid passageway from the first front cavity to the external atmosphere. In some configurations, the fluid passageway includes an inlet area that is substantially reduced relative to the cross-sectional area of ​​the adjacent air. In some other configurations, the fluid passageway includes an inlet area that is substantially larger relative to the cross-sectional area of ​​the first front cavity and also incorporates a flow-restricting element that substantially restricts the flow of gas therethrough.

[0754] In some embodiments, the interface device includes a first or second fluid passageway from the rear cavity to the external atmosphere. In some configurations, the fluid passageway includes an inlet area that is substantially reduced relative to the cross-sectional area of ​​the adjacent air. In some other configurations, the fluid passageway includes an inlet area that is substantially larger relative to the cross-sectional area of ​​the first front cavity and also incorporates a flow-restricting element that substantially restricts the flow of gas therethrough.

[0755] In some embodiments, one or more fluid passageways can fluidly connect a first, front cavity on the ear canal side of the device to a second cavity that does not incorporate a diaphragm therein.

[0756] Preferably, the audio device creates a sufficient seal between the air on the ear canal side of the device and the air on the external side of the device situ, and sufficiently little air is trapped within the ear canal side of the device situ, such that the sound pressure generated inside the ear canal is increased on average by at least 2 dB, more preferably 4 dB, and most preferably at least 6 dB, compared to the sound pressure generated when the device is operating and the audio device does not create a sufficient seal on the situ.

[0757] Preferably, the audio device creates a sufficient seal between the air on the ear canal side of the device and the air on the external side of the device situ, and sufficiently little air is trapped within the ear canal side of the device situ, such that when a 70 Hz sine wave electrical input is applied, the sound pressure generated inside the ear canal is increased by at least 2 dB, more preferably 4 dB, and most preferably at least 6 dB, compared to the sound pressure generated when the same electrical input is applied when the audio device does not create a sufficient seal on the situ.

[0758] Preferably, the air leaks are formed substantially within a single component. More preferably, they are formed entirely within a single component. [Does this include mesh? (Yes, it does) because leaks can occur very easily between mating surfaces, which are difficult to control tolerances for during manufacturing.]

[0759] #251 Preferably, at least one air leakage passage comprises small holes and / or fine mesh and / or air gaps.

[0760] In some embodiments, one of the fluid passageways comprises one or more apertures having a diameter of less than about 0.5 mm, more preferably less than about 0.1 mm, and most preferably less than about 0.03 mm.

[0761] Preferably, the fluid passages allow sufficient gas to flow therethrough so that, during operation of the device, over the frequency range of 20 Hz to 80 Hz, at least 50% of the time that the audio device is installed in a standard measuring device, they collectively cause, on average, a reduction in sound pressure level (SPL) of at least 10%, and more preferably at least 25%, and even more preferably at least 50%, and most preferably at least 75% relative to the sound pressure generated when leakage is negligible (average values ​​in both the SPL (i.e., dB) and frequency domains are calculated using log-scale weighting).

[0762] Preferably, the air leakage paths leak sufficient air so that they collectively cause an SPL reduction of at least 10%, more preferably at least 25%, even more preferably at least 50%, and most preferably at least 75%, relative to the sound pressure generated when leakage is negligible, at least 50% of the time that the audio device is mounted in a standard measuring device during operation of the device with a 70 Hz sine wave.

[0763] Preferably, when the audio device is worn by the same listener to a randomly selected listener, on average, the air leakage paths (within the periphery of the device) leak sufficient air so that, during operation of the device, they collectively contribute to an SPL reduction of at least 0.5 dB, more preferably 1 dB, even more preferably 2 dB, even more preferably 4 dB, and most preferably 6 dB, over the frequency range 20 Hz to 80 Hz, relative to the sound pressure generated when leakage through the air leakage paths is negligible during operation (average values ​​in both the SPL (i.e., dB) and frequency domains being calculated using logarithmic scale weighting).

[0764] Preferably, when the audio device is worn by the same listener to a randomly selected listener, on average, the air leakage paths (within the periphery of the device) leak sufficient air so that they collectively contribute to an SPL reduction during operation of the device with a 70 Hz sine wave of at least 0.5 dB, more preferably at least 1 dB, even more preferably at least 2 dB, even more preferably at least 4 dB, and most preferably at least 6 dB, relative to the sound pressure generated when leakage through the air leakage paths is negligible during operation.

[0765] Preferably, the fluid passages are distributed over a distance longer than the shortest distance of the major surface of the diaphragm, more preferably over a distance that is more than 50% longer than the shortest distance of the major surface of the diaphragm, and most preferably over a distance that is more than twice the shortest distance of the major surface of the diaphragm.

[0766] Preferably, the audio device comprises an interface configured to apply pressure to one or more portions of the head over and / or around the ears in situ.

[0767] Preferably, the audio device has a FRO that includes a frequency range from 160 Hz to 6 kHz, more preferably a frequency range from 120 Hz to 8 kHz, more preferably a frequency range from 100 Hz to 10 kHz, even more preferably a frequency range from 80 Hz to 12 kHz, and most preferably a frequency range from 60 Hz to 14 kHz.

[0768] In some embodiments, the audio device comprises a compliant interface, where the audio device contacts the ear or a portion of the head near the ear.

[0769] Preferably, the compliant interface is breathable and includes a plurality of small openings which have the effect of significantly resisting air movement at audio frequencies.

[0770] Preferably, the compliant interface is constructed from open cell foam.

[0771] Preferably, the small opening is configured on the ear canal side of the device so that local air is fluidly coupled to the small opening in the compliant interface.

[0772] Preferably, the compliant interface comprises a breathable fabric covering one or more portions that are fluidly connected to the ambient air on the ear canal side of the device.

[0773] Preferably, the compliant interface comprises a substantially non-breathable fabric covering one or more air accessible portions of the exterior side of the device.

[0774] In some embodiments, the audio device may comprise multiple audio transducers.

[0775] In another aspect, the present invention provides a personal audio device for use in personal audio applications that is typically positioned within about 10 centimeters of a user's head during use, comprising: at least one audio transducer having a diaphragm and an excitation mechanism configured, in use, to act on the diaphragm in response to an electronic signal to cause movement of the diaphragm and generate sound; at least one housing associated with each audio transducer, the housing comprising an enclosure or baffle for accommodating the audio transducers; the diaphragm of the one or more audio transducers comprises one or more peripheral regions of its periphery that are not physically coupled to the interior of the associated housing; one or more peripheral regions of the diaphragm that are not physically connected to the interior of the housing are supported by ferrofluid; It can be said to consist of personal audio devices.

[0776] Preferably, the ferrofluid provides significant support to the diaphragm in place.

[0777] In another aspect, the present invention provides a headphone apparatus comprising a pair of headphone interface devices configured to be positioned around each of a user's ears in use, each interface device comprising: at least one audio transducer having a diaphragm and an excitation mechanism configured, in use, to act on the diaphragm in response to an electronic signal to cause movement of the diaphragm and generate sound; at least one housing associated with each audio transducer, the housing comprising an enclosure or baffle for accommodating the audio transducers; the diaphragm of the one or more audio transducers comprises one or more peripheral regions of its periphery that are not physically coupled to the interior of the associated housing; one or more peripheral regions of the diaphragm that are not physically connected to the interior of the housing are supported by ferrofluid; It can be said that it is composed of a headphone device.

[0778] In another aspect, the present invention provides an earphone apparatus comprising a pair of earphone interface devices, each configured to be positioned in or near a user's ear canal in use, each interface device comprising: at least one audio transducer having a diaphragm and an excitation mechanism configured, in use, to act on the diaphragm in response to an electronic signal to cause movement of the diaphragm and generate sound; at least one housing associated with each audio transducer, the housing comprising an enclosure or baffle for accommodating the audio transducers; the diaphragm of the one or more audio transducers comprises one or more peripheral regions of its periphery that are not physically coupled to the interior of the associated housing; one or more peripheral regions of the diaphragm that are not physically connected to the interior of the housing are supported by ferrofluid; It can be said that it is composed of an earphone device.

[0779] Preferably, the ferrofluid seals or is in direct contact with the one or more peripheral regions supported by the ferrofluid, such that the ferrofluid substantially prevents air flow therebetween.

[0780] In one form, the earphone interface comprises a substantially longitudinal interface channel audibly connected to the diaphragm and configured to be positioned in close proximity to the user's ear canal, preferably comprising a sound-deadening insert, such as foam or other porous or breathable element, at a throat of the channel.

[0781] Any one or more of the above examples or preferred features may be combined with any one or more of the above aspects.

[0782] Other aspects, embodiments, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description and accompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention.

[0783] definition As used in this specification and claims, the term "audio transducer" is intended to encompass an electroacoustic transducer, such as a speaker, or an acoustoelectric transducer, such as a microphone. Although passive radiators are not strictly speaking transducers, for the purposes of this specification, the term "audio transducer" is intended to include passive radiators within its definition.

[0784] As used herein and in the claims, the phrase "force transmitting component" means a member of an associated conversion mechanism, where a) when the conversion mechanism is configured to convert electrical energy into sound energy, a force is generated that drives the diaphragm of the conversion mechanism; or b) When the conversion mechanism is configured to convert sound energy into electrical energy, physical movement of this member results in a change in the force applied to the diaphragm by the force transmission component.

[0785] The term "personal audio," as used herein and in the claims with respect to a transducer or device, means a speaker transducer or speaker device operable for audio reproduction and intended and / or dedicated for use in close proximity to a user's ear or head, such as within about 10 cm of the user's ear or head, during audio reproduction. Examples of personal audio transducers or personal audio devices include headphones, earphones, hearing aids, mobile phones, etc.

[0786] The term "comprising" as used in this specification and claims means "consisting at least in part of." When interpreting each statement in this specification and claims that includes the term "comprising," other features may also be present, as well as features beginning with this term. Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprises" should be interpreted in the same manner.

[0787] As used herein, the term "and / or" means "and," "or," or both.

[0788] As used herein, "(s)" following a noun refers to the plural and / or singular form of that noun.

[0789] Numeric range Reference to a range of numbers disclosed herein (e.g., 1 to 10) is intended to incorporate all rational or irrational numbers within that range (e.g., 1, 1.1, 2, 3, 3.9, 4, 5, 6, 6.5, 7, 8, 9, and 10), as well as any range of rational or irrational numbers within that range (e.g., 2 to 8, 1.5 to 5.5, and 3.1 to 4.7), and thus, all subranges of every range explicitly disclosed herein are hereby expressly disclosed. These are merely illustrative of what is specifically contemplated, and all possible combinations of numerical values ​​between the lowest and highest values ​​recited should be considered to be equally expressly set forth herein.

[0790] Operating Frequency Range The phrase "frequency range of operation" (also referred to herein as FRO) as used herein in connection with a given audio transducer is intended to mean the transducer's audio-related FRO, as determined by one knowledgeable in the art of acoustic engineering, and optionally including any application of external hardware or software filtering. Thus, the FRO is the operating range determined by the transducer's configuration.

[0791] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the relevant art, the FRO of a transducer may be determined according to one or more of the following descriptions. 1. In the context of a complete speaker system, or audio reproduction system, or personal audio device such as headphones, earphones, or hearing aids, FRO is the frequency range within the audible bandwidth, 20 Hz to 20 kHz, where the sound pressure level (SPL) exceeds or falls within 9 dB below the average SPL (in both the SPL (i.e., dB) and frequency domains, the average being calculated using logarithmic scale weighting) produced by the entire system over the frequency range 500 Hz to 2000 Hz (excluding any narrow bands where the response drops below 9 dB). In other cases, such as when the device is designed for precision audio reproduction, or when the device is designed for another purpose such as hearing enhancement or noise cancellation, the FRO will be determined by one or more persons skilled in the art. When the speaker system or other device is a typical personal audio device, the SPL should be measured relative to the Hammershoi and Moller "diffuse field" target standard, e.g., as shown in Figure F. 2. In the context of a speaker driver operatively installed as part of a speaker system or audio reproduction system, FRO is the frequency range over which the sound produced by the transducer contributes significantly, directly or indirectly, such as via a port or passive radiator, to the total SPL of the speaker or audio reproduction system's audio reproduction within the FRO of said system. 3. In the context of a passive radiator operatively installed as part of a speaker system or audio reproduction system, the FRO is the frequency range over which the sound produced by the passive radiator contributes significantly to the total sound pressure level (SPL) of the speaker or audio reproduction system's audio reproduction within the FRO of said system. 4. In the context of microphones, FRO is the frequency range in which a transducer contributes significantly, directly or indirectly, to the total level, as measured by any active and / or passive crossover filtering that alters the amount of sound produced by one or more transducers in the system, occurring in real time or in post-recording, of an audio recording within the bandwidth being recorded by the entire (mono-channel) recording device of which this transducer is a component. 5. If the associated transducer is not operatively mounted as part of a speaker system or audio reproduction system or microphone, the FRO is the bandwidth within which the transducer would be deemed appropriate for proper operation, as determined by a person skilled in the relevant art. In the context of a mobile phone transducer for voice reproduction, where the transducer is placed within about 5-10 cm of the user's ear, FRO is considered to be the audio bandwidth normally applied in this voice reproduction case.

[0792] For the set of interpretations above, including those for the term FRO, the frequency range referred to in each interpretation should be determined or measured using the conventional, industry-accepted method for measuring loudspeaker or microphone systems of the relevant category. As an illustrative example, for the conventional, industry-accepted method for measuring the SPL produced by a typical home audio floor-standing loudspeaker system, measurements are made on the tweeter axis, and the anechoic frequency response is measured using a 2.83 VRMS excitation signal at a distance determined by appropriately summing all drivers and any resonators in the system. This distance is determined by making successive windowed measurements, as described below, starting at three times the largest dimension of the source and progressively decreasing the measurement distance until a deviation in response becomes apparent.

[0793] The lower limit of the FRO for a particular driver in a system is the -6 dB high-pass roll-off frequency caused by the high-pass active and / or passive crossover, and / or by any applicable pre-filtering of the source signal, and / or by the low frequency roll-off characteristics of the driver combination, and / or by any associated resonators (e.g., ports or passive radiators associated with said driver), or the lower limit of the system's FRO, whichever of these two is higher.

[0794] Typically, the upper limit of FRO for a particular driver in a system is the -6 dB low-pass roll-off frequency caused by low-pass active and / or passive crossovers, and / or other filtering, and / or any applicable pre-filtering of the source signal, and / or the high-frequency roll-off characteristics of the driver combination, or the upper limit of the system's FRO, whichever is lower.

[0795] Typical headphone measurement equipment will involve the use of a standard head acoustic simulator.

[0796] The present invention contemplates configurations which comprise the foregoing and which are given below as examples only. Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description.

[0797] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following drawings in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0798] [Figure A1]Figure A shows embodiment A of a hinged transducer comprising a composite diaphragm of low rotational inertia hingedly attached using contact surfaces that roll relative to each other using a magnetic biasing force, a fixing structure consisting of strings used to help position the diaphragm within the transducer base structure, and a torsion bar to further help center the diaphragm; a) is a 3D isometric view; b) is a plan view; c) is a side elevation view; d) is a front (diaphragm tip) elevation view; e) is a cross-sectional view (section AA of Figure A1b); and f) is a detailed view of the hinged mechanism shown in Figure A1e. [Figure A2] Figures showing the driver diaphragm of embodiment A shown in Figure A1, where a) is a 3D isometric view, b) is a detailed view of the support pillar shown in Figure A2a, c) is a top (diaphragm tip) elevation view, d) is a front view, e) is a bottom (coil) elevation view, f) is a side elevation view, and g) is an exploded 3D isometric view. [Figure A3] 1 shows the hinge assembly of the driver of embodiment A shown in FIG. A1, where a) is a 3D isometric view, b) is a top view, c) is a front view, d) is a side elevation view, e) is a bottom view, f) is a detail view (detail A of FIG. A3c), g) is a cross-sectional view (section A of FIG. A3f), h) is a cross-sectional view (section B of FIG. A3f), i) is a cross-sectional view (section C of FIG. A3f), and j) is a detailed view of the hinge connection of FIG. A3g. [Figure A4] 1A-1D are views of the torsion bar component of the driver of embodiment A shown in FIG. A1, where a) is a 3D isometric view, b) is a front view, c) is a side elevation view, and d) is a close-up cross-sectional view (section AA of FIG. A4b). [Figure A5]FIG. 1 shows the driver of embodiment A shown in FIG. A1 with a decoupling mount assembled thereon; a) is a 3D isometric view; b) is a detailed view of the decoupling pyramid shown in FIG. A5a; c) is a detailed view of both the decoupling washer and the decoupling bushing shown in FIG. A5a; d) is a front view; e) is a side elevation view; f) is a detailed view of the decoupling pyramid shown in FIG. A5e; g) is a bottom view; and h) is a detailed view of the decoupling pyramid shown in FIG. A5g. [Figure A6] FIG. 6 shows the driver of embodiment A shown in FIG. A1 mounted to the baffle via the decoupling mount shown in FIG. A5 and including a stop to prevent over-excursion of the diaphragm; a) is a 3D isometric view; b) is a front view; c) is a cross-sectional view (section AA of FIG. A6b); d) is a detailed view of the decoupling triangle shown in FIG. A6c; e) is a bottom view; f) is a side elevation view; g) is a cross-sectional view (section BB of FIG. A6f); h) is a detailed view of the decoupling bushing and washer shown in FIG. A6g; and i) is a 3D isometric exploded view. [Figure A7] Figure A7c shows a slug that clamps to the baffle and holds the bushing and washer decoupling mount shown in Figure A6. The slug features a rim that acts as a stop to prevent the driver from moving too far within the baffle. a) 3D isometric view, b) top view, c) front view, d) side elevation view, e) cross section (section AA in Figure A7c), and f) cross section (section BB in Figure A7d). [Figure A8] Figures 1A and 1B show a modified version of the diaphragm used in Example A, which is identical to the diaphragm shown in Figure A2 except that instead of having carbon fiber struts, the main surface of the diaphragm body is completely covered with foil; Figures 1A and 1B show a) 3D isometric view and b) front (diaphragm tip) elevation view. [Figure A9]Figures 11A and 11B show another modified version of the diaphragm used in Example A, which is identical to the diaphragm shown in Figure A8, except that the foil has three semi-ellipsoidal areas on both sides of the diaphragm, near the tip and also omitted on each side area; a) is a 3D isometric view, and b) is a front (diaphragm tip) elevation view. [Figure A10] Figure 10 shows another modified version of the diaphragm used in Example A, similar to the diaphragm shown in Figure A8 except that the anti-shear internal stiffening members are not present in the diaphragm, and this diaphragm only has a single foam wedge. The diaphragm also differs in that the outer shells attached to the front and back of the wedge have been modified to one large semicircle that is omitted near the tip. a) 3D isometric view; b) Front (diaphragm tip) elevation view. [Figure A11] Figures 1A and 1B show another modified version of the diaphragm used in Example A, similar to the diaphragm shown in Figure A10, except that the shell does not have any omitted areas, instead the foil covers the entire front and back surfaces of the foam, and also has a gradual decrease in thickness as the shell extends towards the tip of the diaphragm: a) is a 3D isometric view; b) is a detailed view of the gradual decrease in thickness of the aluminum shell surface shown in Figure A11a; and c) is a front (diaphragm tip) elevation view. [Figure A12] Figures 1A and 1B show another modified version of the diaphragm used in Example A, similar to the diaphragm shown in Figure A10, except that the diaphragm has struts on the front and rear of the wedge instead of an outer shell, with a gradual decrease in thickness as the struts extend towards the tip of the diaphragm: a) is a 3D isometric view; b) is a detailed view of the gradual decrease in thickness of the diagonal carbon fiber struts shown in Figure A11a; c) is a detailed view of the gradual decrease in thickness of the parallel carbon fiber struts shown in Figure A11a; and d) is a front (diaphragm tip) elevation view. [Figure A13]FIG. 1 shows a finite element analysis (FEA) computer simulation of a transducer similar to that of Example A. A transducer floating in free space is simulated, a) is a front view of a plot of displacement vectors resulting from a first resonant mode (the diaphragm foundation (Wn) rotates relative to the transducer base structure), b) is a view in direction A (as indicated in Figure A13a) of a plot of displacement vectors resulting from a first resonant mode, c) is a detailed view of the node axis region of Figure A13b, d) is a 3D isometric view of a plot of displacement vectors resulting from a first resonant mode, e) is a 3D isometric view of a plot of displacement vectors resulting from a first resonant mode, f) is a 3D isometric view of a plot of displacement vectors resulting from a second resonant mode, g) is a 3D isometric view of a plot of displacement vectors resulting from a second resonant mode, and h) is a 3D isometric view of a plot of displacement vectors resulting from a third resonant mode. i) is a 3D isometric view of a plot of displacement resulting from the third resonant mode; j) is a 3D isometric view of a plot of displacement vector resulting from the fourth resonant mode; k) is a 3D isometric view of a plot of displacement resulting from the fourth resonant mode; l) is a 3D isometric view of a plot of displacement vector resulting from the fifth resonant mode; m) is a 3D isometric view of a plot of displacement resulting from the fifth resonant mode. [Figure A14]FIG. A14 shows the transducer of FIG. A13, which is similar to the transducer of Example A, mounted on a decoupling system. The transducer was simulated by harmonic and linear dynamic finite element analysis (FEA) in which the surface of the decoupling system that normally touches the transducer housing is fixed in space and sinusoidal and reaction forces are applied to the diaphragm and transducer base structure, respectively, over a range of frequencies; a) is a 3D isometric view of the transducer and decoupling system; b) is another 3D isometric view of the transducer and decoupling system (with some portions hidden), this time showing the other side of the driver; c) is a 3D isometric view of the displacement vector plot resulting from the FEA of the first resonant mode; d) is a 3D isometric view of the displacement vector plot resulting from the FEA of the first resonant mode; e) is a 3D isometric view of the displacement vector plot resulting from the FEA of the second resonant mode; f) is a 3D isometric view of the displacement plot resulting from the FEA of the second resonant mode; g) is a 3D isometric view of the displacement vector plot resulting from the FEA of the third resonance mode; h) is a 3D isometric view of the displacement plot resulting from the FEA of the third resonance mode; i) is a 3D isometric view of the displacement vector plot resulting from the FEA of the fourth resonance mode; j) is a 3D isometric view of the displacement vector plot resulting from the FEA of the fourth resonance mode; k) is a 3D isometric view of the displacement vector plot resulting from the FEA of the fifth resonance mode; l) is a 3D isometric view of the displacement vector plot resulting from the FEA of the fifth resonance mode; m) is a 3D isometric view of the displacement vector plot resulting from the FEA of the sixth resonance mode; n) is a 3D isometric view of the displacement plot resulting from the FEA of the sixth resonance mode; o) is a 3D isometric view of the displacement vector plot resulting from the FEA of the seventh resonance mode; p) 3D isometric view of the displacement plot resulting from the FEA of the seventh resonant mode;q) 3D isometric view of the displacement vector plot resulting from the FEA of the 8th resonant mode; r) 3D isometric view of the displacement plot resulting from the FEA of the 8th resonant mode; s) Logarithmic displacement vs. logarithmic frequency graph of the position of six sensor locations along the side of the diaphragm and transducer base structure from the linear dynamic FEA simulation (frequencies range from 50 Hz to 30 kHz). [Figure A15] 1A and 1B show the diaphragm structure of the diaphragm assembly of embodiment A shown in FIG. A2, where a) is a 3D isometric view of the diaphragm structure with the base end visible, and b) is a 3D isometric view of the diaphragm structure with the tip end visible. [Figure B1] 1A and 1B show embodiment B of a hinged driver with a low rotational inertia composite diaphragm hingedly mounted with thin walled flexures configured to enable high rotational compliance and low translational compliance, where a) is a 3D isometric view, b) is a top view, c) is a side elevation view, d) is a front view, e) is a cross-sectional view (section AA in FIG. B1d), and f) is a 3D isometric exploded view. [Figure B2] Figures showing the diaphragm and flexure components connecting to the flexure base block of the driver of embodiment B shown in Figure B1, where a) is a top view, b) is a 3D isometric view, c) is a side elevation view, d) is a front view, e) is a detailed view of the flexure shown in Figure B2c, f) is another front view (same view as B2d) with the reference plane indicated, and g) is a bottom view with the reference plane indicated. [Figure B3] 8A and 8B show a linking component comprising a diaphragm base frame connected to two base blocks via flexure components as used in the driver of embodiment B shown in Figures B1 and B2, where a) is a side elevation view, b) is a front view, c) is a bottom view, and d) is a 3D isometric view. [Figure B4] 8A and 8B show the driver of embodiment B shown in FIG. B1 and rigidly attached to the baffle, where a) is a top view, b) is a 3D isometric view, c) is a side elevation view, d) is a front view, e) is a cross-sectional view (section AA in FIG. B4d), and f) is a cross-sectional view (section BB in FIG. B4e). [Figure C1] Figures showing a simplified version of the driver showing a block representing a diaphragm connected to a base block via a flexure hinge assembly spanning the width of the diaphragm: a) Top view; b) 3D isometric view; c) Side elevation view; d) Front view; e) Detailed view of the hinge assembly shown in Figure C1c. [Figure C2] 10A-10D are diagrams showing alternative simplified versions of a driver showing a block representing a diaphragm connected to a diaphragm base connected to a base block via flexure hinge assemblies located at either end of the width of the diaphragm; a) is a 3D isometric view; b) is a top view; c) is a side elevation view; and d) is a front view. [Figure C3] FIG. C3 shows a side elevation view of the simplified driver of FIG. C2, except with an alternative hinge assembly in which the flexures are in a naturally bent state when the diaphragm is in its rest position. [Figure C4] FIG. C3 shows a side elevation view of the simplified driver of FIG. C2, except with an alternative hinge assembly in which three flexures (on each side) are used instead of two. [Figure C5] Figure C5c shows a simplified version of the driver showing a wedge representing a diaphragm connected to a diaphragm base frame and several coil windings and connected from the diaphragm base frame to a base block via two X flexure hinge assemblies; a) is a 3D isometric view; b) is a top view; c) is a rear view; d) is a side elevation view; and e) is a cross section AA of the rear view (Figure C5c). [Figure C6]A simplified version of the same driver as in Figure C5, except without the base block; a) 3D isometric view; b) rear view; c) side elevation view; and d) bottom view. [Figure C7] Figure C7d shows a simplified version of a driver similar to the version shown in Figure C5, except using an alternative hinge assembly; a) top view; b) 3D isometric view; c) side elevation view; d) front (diaphragm tip) view; and e) cross section AA of the rear view (Figure C7d). [Figure C8] Figure C6 shows a simplified version of a driver similar to the version shown in Figure C6 (base block not shown) except using an alternative hinge assembly, where a) is a 3D isometric view, b) is a top view, c) is a rear view, and d) is a side elevation view. [Figure C9] 10A and 10B show an X flexure as used in a similar simplified version of the driver shown in FIG. C8, where a) is a 3D isometric view and b) is a side elevation view. [Figure C10] Figures C10a and C10b show an alternative simplified version of the driver showing a block representing the diaphragm connected to a diaphragm base which is connected to two base blocks via flexure hinge connections extending from either end of the width of the diaphragm: a) is a top view; b) is a 3D isometric view; c) is a side elevation view; d) is a front view; and e) is section AA of Figure C10d showing only the plane cut by the section line. [Figure C11] FIGS. 10a-10f are six cross-sectional views (similar to the view in FIG. C10e, again showing only the plane cut by the section line) of several alternative designs of flexure hinge connections. [Figure C12] FIG. C12 shows a simplified version of the driver shown in FIG. C10, except that it has a modified version of the flexure component where the cross-sectional thickness is thinner in areas that are intended to flex, and the cross-sectional thickness is thicker in areas that connect to the diaphragm and two base blocks. [Figure C13] Figure C12 shows a simplified version of the driver shown in Figure C10, except that it has a modified version of the flexure component where the cross-sectional width thickness is moderately narrow in the area intended to flex, and wider in the area connecting to the diaphragm and two base blocks. [Figure D1] FIG. 1D shows embodiment D of a hinged speaker driver comprising three low rotational inertia composite diaphragms hingedly mounted using thin-walled flexures configured to enable high rotational compliance and low translational compliance; a) is a 3D isometric view; b) is a top view; c) is a side elevation view; d) is an end view; and e) is a cross-section AA of FIG. D1d. [Figure D2] FIG. D1 shows a driver in embodiment D shown in FIG. D1 mounted in a surround configured to direct air displaced by the three diaphragms into one set of ports and out another set when the diaphragms rotate in one direction and vice versa, where a) is a 3D isometric view oriented at an angle to show one set of ports on one side of the surround, b) is a 3D isometric view oriented at an angle to show a second set of ports on the other side of the surround, c) is a side elevation view, d) is an end view, and e) is cross-section AA of FIG. D2d. [Figure E1] 1 shows embodiment E of a hinged speaker driver comprising a composite diaphragm of low rotational inertia hingedly mounted with contact surfaces that roll relative to each other under the biasing force applied by leaf springs; a) is a 3D isometric view; b) is a top view; c) is a side elevation view; d) is a front view; e) is a detail of FIG. E1c; f) is a cross-sectional view (section AA of FIG. E1d); g) is a detail of the contact point in FIG. E1f; h) is a detail of the coil winding in FIG. E1f; i) is a cross-sectional view (section BB of FIG. E1c); j) is a detail of FIG. E1h; k) is a detail of detail (FIG. E1j); l) is a 3D isometric exploded view; m) is a detail (E1l). [Figure E2] Figures showing the driver of embodiment E rigidly mounted to the baffle shown in Figure E1, where a) is a 3D isometric view, b) is a top view, c) is a side elevation view, d) is a front view, e) is a cross-sectional view (section AA of Figure E2b), f) is a detail view of Figure E2e, g) is a cross-sectional view (section BB of Figure E2e), and h) is a 3D isometric exploded view. [Figure E3] FIG. 10 is a 3D isometric view of the diaphragm base frame E107 of the driver of embodiment E shown in FIG. E1. [Figure E4] 10A-10C show driver diaphragm assembly E101 of embodiment E shown in FIG. E1, where a) is a 3D isometric view, b) is a top view, and c) is a side elevation view. [Figure F] 1 is a graph of the frequency response of the desired diffuse field. [Figure G1] Figure 1 shows linear-acting speaker driver embodiment G, in which a foam core diaphragm is supported by a conventional surround and spider diaphragm suspension system. The diaphragm has tension / compression reinforcement on the major exterior surfaces and internal reinforcement members within the core. a) is a 3D isometric view, b) is a side elevation view, and c) is cross-section AA of figure G1b, showing only the plane cut by the section line. [Figure G2] 1A and 1B are diagrams showing the diaphragm of the driver in embodiment G shown in Figure G1, where a) is a 3D isometric view, b) is a side elevation view, c) is a bottom view, and d) is a 3D isometric exploded view. [Figure G3] 1A and 1B show a modified version of the driver diaphragm in embodiment G shown in Figure G1, in which the tension / compression reinforcement on the main outer surface of the diaphragm has been omitted in an area distal to the motor; a) is a 3D isometric view oriented at an angle showing the coil side of the diaphragm; and b) is a 3D isometric view oriented at an angle showing the top side of the diaphragm. [Figure G4]Figure G1 shows a modified version of the driver diaphragm in embodiment G shown in Figure G1. This modification is similar to the modification shown in Figure G3, except that a large amount of material has been omitted from the tension / compression reinforcement on the main outer surface of the diaphragm in the area distal to the motor. a) is a 3D isometric view oriented at an angle showing the coil side of the diaphragm, and b) is a 3D isometric view oriented at an angle showing the top side of the diaphragm. [Figure G5] Figures showing a modified version of the diaphragm of the driver in embodiment G shown in Figure G1, including modifications identical to those shown in Figure G4, except that the thickness of the tension / compression reinforcement of the diaphragm is further reduced in the area distal to the motor; a) is a 3D isometric view oriented at an angle showing the coil side of the diaphragm; b) is a 3D isometric view oriented at an angle showing the top side of the diaphragm; and c) is a detailed view E5b. [Figure G6] 1A and 1B show a modified version of the driver diaphragm in embodiment G shown in Figure G1, which comprises an identical diaphragm except that the thickness of the body of the diaphragm decreases as the diaphragm extends away from the coil; a) is a 3D isometric view oriented at an angle to show the top side of the diaphragm; b) is a 3D isometric view oriented at an angle to show the coil side of the diaphragm; c) is an end view; d) is a side elevation view; e) is a bottom view; and f) is a 3D isometric exploded view. [Figure G7] Figures showing modified versions of the driver diaphragm in embodiment G shown in Figure G1, where the modification is identical to the modification shown in Figure G6 except that the tension / compression reinforcement on the main outer surface of the diaphragm has been omitted in areas distal to some motors; a) is a 3D isometric view oriented at an angle showing the top side of the diaphragm; and b) is a 3D isometric view oriented at an angle showing the coil side of the diaphragm. [Figure G8]10A-10D are a set of diagrams showing a modified version of the driver diaphragm in embodiment G shown in FIG. G1, where the modification is identical to that shown in FIG. G7, except that the tension / compression reinforcement on the main outer surface of the diaphragm comprises thin carbon fiber struts that gradually reduce in thickness in the area distal to the motor; a) is a 3D isometric view oriented at an angle showing the top side of the diaphragm; b) is a detailed view of FIG. G8a showing the gradually reduced thickness of the struts; c) is a 3D isometric view oriented at an angle showing the coil side of the diaphragm; and d) is a detailed view of FIG. G8c showing the gradually reduced thickness of the struts. [Figure G9] Figures showing a partially free peripheral implementation of a linear motion transducer similar to that shown in Figures G1a to G1c and comprising the diaphragm assembly of Figures G6a to G6f, where a) is a 3D isometric view oriented at an angle showing the upper side of the diaphragm, b) is a front view, c) is a top view, d) is a d...

Claims

1. 1. An audio device comprising: at least one audio transducer, a transducer base structure; a diaphragm assembly comprising a diaphragm movably coupled to the transducer base structure so as to vibrate during operation; and a translation mechanism operably coupled to the diaphragm an audio transducer having one or more surrounds adjacent to and extending around a periphery of the diaphragm, the periphery of the diaphragm including one or more peripheral regions not physically connected to the surround; at least one decoupling mounting system, each decoupling mounting system compliantly mounting one of the audio transducers to at least one other portion of the audio device so as to at least partially mitigate mechanical transmission of vibrations between the audio transducer and the at least one other portion of the audio device, the decoupling mounting system being mounted to the transducer base structure of an associated audio transducer, and the at least one other portion of the audio device not being part of a diaphragm assembly of an audio transducer of the audio device; Equipped with each decoupling mounting system permits rotation of an associated transducer base structure relative to the other portion of the audio device about an axis of rotation that coincides with a nodal axis of the audio transducer, the nodal axis being the axis about which the transducer base structure rotates relative to the other portion of the audio device when, in use, the audio transducer is not effectively and substantially supported by the decoupling mounting system and the diaphragm is subjected to mechanical forces associated with the transduction mechanism; and / or An audio device, wherein each decoupling mounting system allows translational movement of an associated transducer-based structure relative to said other portions of said audio device.

2. 10. The audio device of claim 1, further comprising at least one housing, each housing containing at least one of the audio transducers.

3. 3. The audio device of claim 2, wherein at least one of the decoupling mounting systems compliantly mounts the transducer base structure of an associated audio transducer to an associated housing so as to at least partially mitigate mechanical transmission of vibrations between the transducer base structure and the housing during operation.

4. 4. An audio device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein each housing is a baffle or an enclosure.

5. An audio device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein at least one of the surrounds is separate from the housing.

6. 6. The audio device of claim 1, wherein the outer periphery of the diaphragm is substantially physically unconnected such that the one or more peripheral regions constitute at least 20% of the periphery.

7. 7. The audio device of claim 1, wherein the outer periphery of the diaphragm is not physically connected such that the one or more peripheral regions constitute at least 50% of the periphery.

8. 8. The audio device of claim 7, wherein the one or more peripheral regions comprise at least 80% of the perimeter of the outer periphery.

9. An audio device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more peripheral regions of the diaphragm are separated from an associated surround by an air gap.

10. 9. An audio device according to any preceding claim, further comprising a ferrofluid disposed between the one or more peripheral regions of the diaphragm and an associated surround.

11. 11. An audio device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the diaphragm vibrates along a primary path of motion during operation and an associated decoupling mounting system allows movement of the diaphragm assembly relative to the other parts of the audio device along paths other than the primary path of motion.

12. An audio device according to any preceding claim, wherein each decoupling mounting system allows translational movement of an associated transducer base structure relative to the other parts of the audio device.

13. 13. An audio device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein each decoupling mounting system allows rotation of an associated transducer base structure relative to the other parts of the audio device about at least one axis of rotation.

14. 14. An audio device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein each decoupling mounting system allows rotation of an associated transducer base structure relative to the other part of the audio device about the axis of rotation coinciding with the nodal axis of the audio transducer.

15. 15. An audio device as described in any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the diaphragm assembly of at least one of the audio transducers is hingedly attached to the transducer base structure such that the diaphragm rotatably vibrates relative to the transducer base structure about an axis of rotation during operation.

16. 16. The audio device of claim 15, wherein each decoupling mounting system enables rotation of an associated transducer base structure relative to the other portion of the audio device about an axis of rotation parallel to the axis of rotation of an associated diaphragm.

17. 17. An audio device as claimed in claim 15 or 16, wherein the diaphragm assembly is hingedly attached to the transducer base structure via a hinge having a flexible hinge element.

18. 18. An audio device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the transduction mechanism of at least one of the audio transducers is an electromagnetic mechanism having a conductive coil and a magnet or a magnetic assembly.

19. 19. An audio device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the diaphragm of at least one of the audio transducers is rigid and remains rigid during operation.

20. 20. An audio device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the maximum thickness or depth of the diaphragm of at least one of the audio transducers is greater than 11% of the maximum length or dimension of the diaphragm.

21. 21. An audio device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the transducer base structure comprises a thick, chunky geometry.

22. 22. An audio device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein at least one of the decoupling mounting systems compliantly mounts the transducer base structure to the other portion of the audio device via one or more flexible members.

Images