Components for sound generation

Abstract

The present invention provides assemblies for the generation of sound using a plurality of configurations, including in one embodiment, surfaces that can be fixed or movable relative to one another. The surfaces can be electromagnetic, electrostatic, piezoelectric, transducer implemented, thermally activated, permanent magnetic, or activated by any other means, including but not limited to mechanical activation. The surfaces can be in various configurations that are free floating, constrained, suspended, or combinations thereof. The surfaces themselves can be foldable, rollable, expandable, dedicated, or any combination thereof.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This invention claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 404,093, filed October 4, 2016, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to sound generation and sound production. Specifically, this invention relates to novel structures and components for sound generation, including but not limited to sound generator components. Background Technology

[0004] Traditional microphones and microphones utilize a variety of materials and configurations. One type of traditional microphone / microphone assembly uses a voice coil-based assembly, which includes at least one wound coil, a magnet, and a diaphragm attached to one of the coils and the magnet. During microphone operation, the excitation of the coil creates a magnetic field, which induces relative movement between the magnet and the coil, which in turn causes the diaphragm to move, resulting in the generation of sound.

[0005] Another traditional sound generator is an electrostatic sound generator, in which a magnetic field-inducing diaphragm is located between the two stators. The alternating currents of the same polarity that excite the stator assembly generate an alternating electric field, causing the diaphragm to move between the two stators, thus generating sound.

[0006] However, there is a need for sound generator components that improve the fidelity of sound output, while offering benefits such as higher sensitivity, smaller size, lighter weight, simpler design and structure, lower cost, improved manufacturing efficiency and form factor, and / or applications that were previously impossible. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present invention provides a component for sound generation. The component includes a first surface coupled to an electromagnetic / electrostatic field generating structure and a second surface coupled to an electromagnetic / electrostatic field induction structure. The first and second surfaces are spaced apart such that at least one of the first and second surfaces moves relative to the other surface in response to the generation of an electromagnetic / electrostatic field by the electromagnetic / electrostatic field generating structure.

[0008] The first and second surfaces may be coaxially arranged annular surfaces. In one embodiment, one of the first and second surfaces includes a diaphragm. In a specific embodiment, the first surface may include a diaphragm with an extended structure as one of the second surfaces.

[0009] The first and second surfaces can be connected to each other by a plurality of elastic tethers.

[0010] In one embodiment, one of the first and second surfaces includes a diaphragm comprising a plurality of flexibly interconnected diaphragm segments.

[0011] Each of the first and second surfaces is mounted on the opposite side of a gasket, such that the first and second surfaces are spaced apart from each other.

[0012] One or each of the first and second surfaces may include a helical surface.

[0013] At least one of the first and second surfaces may be provided with one or more surface rigidity adjusters.

[0014] In one embodiment, one of the first and second surfaces is a diaphragm, which may have charged particles or charged layers or magnetic sensing particles or magnetic sensing layers disposed thereon.

[0015] The membrane may include one or more layers of charged particles or magnetically induced particles, each such layer of charged particles or magnetically induced particles being installed between two membrane substrate layers.

[0016] In one embodiment, one of the first and second surfaces includes a membrane having one or more conductive structures formed thereon with positive or negative polarity.

[0017] One of the first and second surfaces may include a diaphragm having one or more conductive structures, each of which is disposed between the two diaphragm substrate layers.

[0018] In one embodiment, one of the first and second surfaces includes a diaphragm, the diaphragm may include a conductive mesh structure having non-conductive filler material spaced between conductive elements of the mesh structure, wherein the periphery of the filler material in each gap is separated from the periphery of the filler material in at least one adjacent gap.

[0019] In another embodiment, one of the first and second surfaces includes a diaphragm comprising a conductive mesh structure and having air gaps spaced between the conductive elements of the mesh structure.

[0020] One of the first surface and the second surface may include a conductive structure disposed thereon, while the other of the first surface and the second surface may include an electromagnetic field induction structure disposed thereon, wherein the conductive structure and the electromagnetic field induction structure have substantially the same structure.

[0021] In a further embodiment, one of the first and second surfaces includes a diaphragm, the diaphragm may have a plurality of conductive structures disposed thereon, wherein each of the plurality of conductive structures is electrically isolated from the others.

[0022] One of the plurality of conductive structures may be configured to carry current, and at least one of the plurality of conductive structures may be isolated from any externally applied current.

[0023] In a more specific embodiment, one of the plurality of conductive structures is configured to carry a first current, and another of the plurality of conductive structures is configured to carry a second current, wherein the first current and the second current are electrically isolated from each other.

[0024] One of the plurality of conductive structures may have different structural properties compared to at least one of the plurality of conductive structures.

[0025] In a specific embodiment where a diaphragm is included on one of the first and second surfaces, the diaphragm may have a first cross-sectional thickness, and at least one additional diaphragm region may have a cross-sectional thickness different from the first cross-sectional thickness.

[0026] In one embodiment of the component, one of the first and second surfaces includes a diaphragm, wherein the diaphragm is configured as an input diaphragm.

[0027] In another embodiment of the component, one of the first and second surfaces includes a diaphragm, and the diaphragm is configured as a microphone diaphragm.

[0028] One of the plurality of independent conductive structures may be connected to a first input signal stream corresponding to a first audio channel, while another of the plurality of independent conductive structures may be connected to a second input signal stream corresponding to a second audio channel.

[0029] In one embodiment where one of the first and second surfaces includes a diaphragm, the diaphragm may comprise a plurality of non-porous membranes sealed together to form a fluid-tight compartment, wherein the fluid-tight compartment expands using a gas at a pressure higher than atmospheric pressure. The boundary of the fluid-tight compartment may be defined by one or more rigid gaskets on which a plurality of non-porous membranes are mounted, and one or more fasteners defining the edge of the fluid-tight compartment.

[0030] In another embodiment, the invention may include a sound generation component. The component may include (i) one or more wave-generating surfaces configured to generate a sound wave by movement of the wave-generating surfaces, wherein the one or more wave-generating surfaces are configured to perform any one of reciprocating motion, cyclic motion, rotational motion, or elliptical motion; (ii) a driver configured to drive one or more wave generators from a first position to a second position to generate audible sound; and (iii) one or more actuators configured to modify (a) the airflow characteristics of the one or more wave-generating surfaces or (b) the direction or speed of motion of the one or more wave-generating surfaces. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1A and 1B The radial sound generator assembly is depicted.

[0032] Figures 1C to 1H An exemplary embodiment of a diaphragm for a sound generator assembly is depicted.

[0033] Figure 2A and 2B An embodiment of a tethered surface for a sound generator assembly is depicted.

[0034] Figures 3A to 3D An embodiment of a gasket mounting surface for a sound generator assembly is depicted.

[0035] Figures 3E to 3G Embodiments of foldable or rollable sound generator assemblies are depicted.

[0036] Figures 4A to 4C An embodiment of a tension-adjustable sound generator assembly is described.

[0037] Figure 5A and 5B A stretchable diaphragm for a sound generator assembly is depicted.

[0038] Figure 6A and 6B A diaphragm is depicted for a sound-generating assembly having magnetic or electrically charged inductive particles disposed thereon.

[0039] Figure 7A and 7B An embodiment of a diaphragm surface including a conductive structure is described.

[0040] Figures 8A to 8K Examples 9A, 9C, 9D, 10A, 10B and 11 depict embodiments of a diaphragm surface having one or more conductive structures thereon.

[0041] Figure 9B A diaphragm structure with multiple cross-sections is depicted.

[0042] Figures 12A to 12R An embodiment of a rotating sound generator assembly and its internal components is depicted.

[0043] Figure 12S Examples of vibrating sound generator components and their internal parts are depicted in 12T(2).

[0044] Figure 12U to 12V An embodiment of a novel sound generator assembly structure based on a membrane structure, according to the teachings of the present invention, is described.

[0045] Figure 13 An exemplary drum assembly is depicted, incorporating one or more components described elsewhere in the specification. Detailed Implementation

[0046] This invention provides a sound generation assembly using a plurality of mutually fixed or movable surfaces. These surfaces may be electromagnetic, electrostatic, piezoelectric, sensor-implemented, thermally activated, permanent magnetic, or activated by any other means, including but not limited to mechanical activation.

[0047] As explained in detail below, the surface can have various configurations, including free-floating, confined, suspended, or combinations thereof. The surface itself can be foldable, rollable, expandable, dedicated, or any combination thereof.

[0048] Radial sound generator assembly

[0049] In such Figure 1A In a first embodiment depicted, the invention includes a radially configured sound generator assembly comprising a first cylindrical surface 102 having a first diameter and a second cylindrical surface 104 having a second diameter smaller than the first diameter, wherein the first and second cylindrical surfaces are coaxially arranged about their respective longitudinal axes 1. In other words, the first and second cylindrical surfaces are coaxially aligned about a common longitudinal axis, such that the second cylindrical surface is nested within the first cylindrical surface. At least one of the first and second cylindrical surfaces is coupled to an electrostatic / electric field generating component, while the other of the first and second cylindrical surfaces is coupled to one or more electrostatic / electric field sensing components. Changing the electrostatic field generated by the electrostatic / electric field generating component will induce movement of the electrostatic / electric field sensing component, thereby inducing relative movement between the surfaces of the coaxially nested first and second cylindrical surfaces. In one embodiment of the invention, one of the first cylindrical surface 102 and the second cylindrical surface 104 is a diaphragm surface, and the sound generator assembly is configured such that changing the electrostatic field generated by the electrostatic field generating component will induce radial expansion or radial contraction of the diaphragm, which in turn induces sound generation.

[0050] In a first embodiment of the invention, the diaphragm surface includes a first cylindrical surface 102. In another embodiment of the invention, the diaphragm surface includes a second cylindrical surface 104.

[0051] Alternatively, the first cylindrical surface 102 and the second cylindrical surface 104 can be fixed or held in position by any number of mechanical devices. In one embodiment, the first and second cylindrical surfaces are tied together by a plurality of elastic or resilient tethers. Figure 1BA top view of a first cylindrical surface 102 and a second cylindrical surface 104 is depicted, showing how the surfaces are secured to each other by a plurality of elastic tethers 106, 108, 110, 112, and 114. The elastic tethers are selected and secured such that the first and second cylindrical surfaces 102 and 104 are secured to each other in a manner that allows relative movement by expanding or contracting one or both of the cylindrical surfaces. Optionally, the elastic properties of the tethers assist the surfaces in regaining their original configuration once the electrostatic field responsible for the relative movement of the cylindrical surfaces is no longer applicable. For the purposes of this invention, it is further understood that the first and second surfaces do not necessarily have to be perfectly cylindrical, but may comprise any similar or substantially similar 2D or 3D shape.

[0052] Figure 1C In one depicted embodiment, either the first cylindrical surface or the second cylindrical surface (both in one embodiment) is a segmented surface, composed of a plurality of segments (such as 116, 118, and 120) joined together to form a substantially cylindrical or polygonal surface. In one embodiment of the invention where the cylindrical surface is a diaphragm, the joining of the segments forming the cylinder can be achieved by using one or more joints, pleats, origami-like connectors, or other fasteners that enable the expansion and contraction of the diaphragm. Figure 1D A top view depicting the combined diaphragm structure is shown. Although Figure 1C The segments depicted are basically strip-shaped; it is understood that any other regular or irregular shape may be used for their respective segments.

[0053] Figure 1E In another embodiment depicted, one or both of the first cylindrical surface and the second cylindrical surface may have a flexible helical structure 122, such that the cylindrical surface expands or contracts by tightening or loosening the helical coil. Figure 1F A top view depicting a cylindrical surface having a helical structure 122 is shown. In one embodiment of the invention, the helical structure 122 includes a sound-generating diaphragm. Although Figure 1E A helical structure for cylindrical surfaces is depicted, and it is understood that the first and second cylindrical surfaces may similarly include any other elastically stretchable or elastically foldable structure.

[0054] Figure 1G and 1H Side and top views are depicted respectively of a cylindrical surface with a helical configuration and including multiple connecting segments 124, 126, and 128.

[0055] Sound generator assembly with a floating or hovering surface

[0056] Figure 2A and Figure 2BThe second embodiment of the invention shown includes a sound generator assembly having a first surface 202 and a second surface 204, wherein the first and second surfaces are elastically secured to each other by a plurality of resilient fasteners 206 to 212. In one embodiment of the invention, the resilient fasteners may include resilient tethers or other fasteners 206 to 212, allowing relative movement between the two surfaces during an excited phase and allowing the two surfaces to return to their original relative positions during a stable phase. At least one of the first surface 202 and the second surface 204 is coupled to an electrostatic / electric field generating device, while the other of the first surface and the second surface 204 is coupled to one or more electrostatic / electric field sensing components. During the excited phase, changes in the electrostatic / electric field generated by the electrostatic / electric field generating component will cause movement of the electrostatic / electric field sensing component, thereby causing relative movement between the two surfaces, while during the stable phase, the two surfaces return to their original relative positions. In one embodiment of the invention, one of the first surface 202 and the second surface 204 may be a diaphragm surface, and the sound generator assembly is configured such that changes in the electrostatic / electric field generated by the electrostatic / electric field generating component will cause movement of the diaphragm, which in turn causes sound generation.

[0057] The configuration described above can be used to tether, suspend, or hover the first and second surfaces 202 and 204 to each other, thus eliminating the need for separate housings that fix the first and second surfaces to each other. In a preferred embodiment, the first and second surfaces are tethered to each other using two or more tethers arranged in an optimal configuration (in one embodiment, this may include a total of three arranged in a substantially triangular configuration).

[0058] It is understood that in some embodiments, the first and second surfaces are suspended relative to each other, for example, using magnets, charges, or electric fields to ensure that one surface is suspended relative to the other. In such embodiments, the first and second surfaces may optionally be tethered to each other.

[0059] Spacer-based sound generator assembly

[0060] Figure 3A and 3D The third embodiment of the invention shown includes a sound generator assembly having a first surface 302 and a second surface 304, wherein, as depicted in the first and second embodiments, each of the first surface 302 and the second surface 304 can be fixed to opposite sides of a gasket 306. In one embodiment, this can be achieved by fixing each of the first surface 302 and the second surface 304 to the gasket 306, or in another embodiment, by stretching surfaces 302 and 304 onto the gasket 306, thereby fixing the edges of the two surfaces to each other. Figure 3B As depicted, gasket 306 may include a gasket or frame structure that separates surfaces 302 and 304 from each other, thus allowing relative movement between them. Figure 3Cand 3D A perspective view of a gasket 306 having surfaces 302 and 304 mounted thereon is depicted. During the stimulated phase, the mounting of the two surfaces 302 and 304 on the gasket 306 allows relative movement between the two surfaces, while in the steady phase, the two surfaces return to their original relative positions. At least one of the first surface 302 and the second surface 304 may be coupled to an electrostatic / electric field generating component, while the other of the first surface 302 and the second surface 304 is coupled to one or more electrostatic field sensing components. During the stimulated phase, changes within the electrostatic / electric field generated by the electrostatic / electric field generating component will induce movement of the electrostatic / electric field sensing component, thereby inducing relative movement between the two surfaces, while in the steady phase, the two surfaces return to their original relative positions. In one embodiment of the invention, one of the first surface 302 and the second surface 304 may be a diaphragm surface, and the sound generator assembly is configured such that changes in the electrostatic / electric field generated by the electrostatic / electric field generating component will induce movement of the diaphragm, which in turn induces sound generation.

[0061] The configuration described above can be used to mount the first and second surfaces 302 and 304 opposite to each other, thus eliminating the need for a separate housing for fixing the first and second surfaces opposite to each other. In one embodiment, fixing the first and second surfaces 302, 304 to a gasket 306 creates a sealed compartment between the first and second surfaces. In various embodiments, the compartment may contain pressurized gas, a partial vacuum, or a gas at atmospheric pressure (e.g., air).

[0062] The gasket of the present invention may include any gasket frame on which a first surface and a second surface are mounted in a configuration opposite or substantially opposite to each other, such that the first and second surfaces are separated by a defined separation distance. Although Figures 3B to 3D The gaskets depicted are in a basic rectangular frame shape. It is understood that any other gasket shape is equally conceivable, including but not limited to circular frame shapes, triangular frame shapes, or any other regular or irregular polygonal frame shapes.

[0063] In one specific embodiment of the invention, a plurality of spacer-based sound generator assemblies of the type described above can be flexibly interconnected to form a larger sound generator assembly. Figures 3E to 3G An illustrative embodiment with such a configuration is provided. Figure 3E In some embodiments, rectangular components 306, 308, and 312 are integrated within a larger linear structure component via connectors or fasteners 314 and 316. Figure 3F In one embodiment, rectangular sound generator assemblies 318, 320, 322, 324, 326, 328 are integrated into a larger rectangular sound generator configuration via connectors or fasteners 330, 332, 334, 336, 338. Figure 3GIn the depicted embodiment, triangular sound generator assemblies 340, 342, and 344 are linearly integrated via connectors 346 and 348 to form a larger, irregularly shaped sound generator assembly. It is understood that when sound generator assemblies are integrated within a larger configuration, integrating multiple sound generator assemblies using connectors or fasteners (in one embodiment, resilient or flexible fasteners) will induce strain relief, additionally ensuring that such a larger configuration is foldable or rollable.

[0064] Externally constrained sound generator components

[0065] like Figures 4A to 4C In an alternative embodiment of the invention depicted, the sound generator assembly includes a surface 402 mounted on an external constraint, such as a mounting ring 404, optionally equipped with one or more tension adjusters (e.g., tension bars 406, 408, 410, 412) configured to change the tension of surface 402. In one embodiment, surface 402 may be opposed to a second surface (not shown). During the excitation phase, the mounting of surface 402 on ring 404 enables relative movement between surface 402 and the opposed second surface, while during the steady phase, the two surfaces return to their original relative positions. At least one of surface 402 and the opposed second surface may be coupled to an electrostatic / electric field generating component, while the other of surface 402 and the second surface may be coupled to one or more electrostatic field sensing components. During the excitation phase, changes in the electrostatic / electric field generated by the electrostatic / electric field generating component will trigger movement of the electrostatic / electric field sensing component, thereby causing relative movement between the two surfaces, while during the steady phase, the two surfaces return to their original relative positions. In one embodiment of the invention, surface 402 may be a diaphragm surface, and the sound generator assembly is configured such that changing the electrostatic field generated by the magnetic / electric field generating component will cause the diaphragm to move, which in turn will cause sound generation.

[0066] Sound generator assembly based on expandable diaphragm

[0067] In one embodiment of the invention, the diaphragm of the sound generator assembly may have an expandable structure—for example, such as Figure 5A Or the folded or pleated structure depicted in 5B. Figure 5A The flat / sheet-type diaphragm 502 is depicted, while Figure 5B A diaphragm 504 of the type that can be implemented in the radial sound generator assembly embodiments described above is depicted. By implementing an expandable (e.g., pleated) surface structure for the diaphragm, the diaphragm is able to move more air compared to a non-expandable diaphragm, at substantially the same size.

[0068] Sound generator assembly with magnetized diaphragm surface

[0069] Existing solutions generally involve the use of fixed permanent magnets and movable electromagnets. This invention aims to generate sound using a sound-generating assembly that involves a movable permanent magnet and a fixed or movable electromagnet.

[0070] The present invention achieves the above-mentioned objective by configuring one or more of the following novel sound-generating components.

[0071] exist Figure 6A In the first embodiment of the invention depicted, the moving permanent magnet takes the form of a moving, magnetized generator surface (e.g., a diaphragm surface). This can be achieved in many different ways, including but not limited to coating the diaphragm surface with magnetic or magnetically induced particles and / or layers, embedding the diaphragm surface with magnetic or magnetically induced particles and / or layers, and depositing magnetic or magnetically induced particles on the diaphragm surface using a stacked printing method.

[0072] Figure 6A A diaphragm surface 602 is depicted having a coating of charged particles deposited thereon. By coating the surface with magnetic or magnetically induced particles or by using conductive structures, the surface 602 is configured to be magnetically induced or magnetically conductive, such that the surface can respond to changes in a magnetic / electrostatic field generated by one or more stationary or moving electromagnets, or, in an alternative embodiment, can be used to generate a magnetic / electrostatic field by applying an electric current through the conductive structure. By using a coating of magnetized or magnetically induced particles, or by applying conductive structures to the diaphragm surface 602, the assembly avoids the need for bulky magnets and enables various thin-shape configurations for the speaker assembly. In addition to the application of a coating, the application of magnetic or magnetically induced particles or conductive structures on the diaphragm can be achieved by a subtractive process including etching of a metal plate fixed to a substrate, embedding the magnetic or magnetically induced particles or conductive structures onto the diaphragm surface, or by a superposition process including magnetic or magnetically induced particles or conductive structures deposited on the substrate in a predetermined pattern.

[0073] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, such as Figure 6B As depicted, the diaphragm 604 is formed by sandwiching a magnetic or magnetically sensing element, or particle or coating 610, or conductive structure between a first base layer 606 and a second base layer 608. It is understood that this configuration significantly reduces the removal or detachment of part or all of the magnetic or magnetically sensing element, particle or coating, or conductive structure from the outer layer of the diaphragm due to movement, influence, or ordinary wear.

[0074] Any one or more mechanical, thermal, or chemical methods can be used to fix magnetic or magnetically induced particles or conductive structures to a substrate. It is understood that the teachings of all the embodiments described above regarding the application of charged or magnetically induced particles to a moving surface can also be applied to the purpose of fixing one or more conductive elements to a moving surface within a sound generator assembly.

[0075] Sound generator assembly with conductive structure

[0076] In the present invention as Figure 7A In the depicted embodiments, a movable surface or diaphragm 702 of the sound generator assembly may include a conductive structure 704 capable of generating an electrostatic field in response to an electric field passing through the conductive structure. The gaps between one or more conductive structures are filled using a non-conductive filler material 706. In one embodiment, the filler material is strictly contained within a mesh structure, and there is no overlap between the mesh structure and the filler material. By selecting a suitable filler material, the diaphragm 702 may possess suitable necessary flexibility or elasticity properties to serve as a movable surface within the sound generator assembly. In another embodiment, the filler material may overlap with the mesh structure.

[0077] In the present invention as Figure 7B In the depicted embodiments, a moving surface or diaphragm 708 of the sound generator assembly may include a conductive mesh or a mesh structure having gaps 714 between the conductive elements of the mesh. By ensuring that the area of ​​the gaps is sufficiently small, the conductive mesh or mesh structure 712 generates sound as a diaphragm within the sound generator assembly with satisfactory performance. By eliminating the membrane material surrounding the conductive material, the electrostatic field strength generated by the diaphragm is greater, while simultaneously reducing the weight and thickness of the diaphragm, resulting in lower weight, lower required signal power, lower design / manufacturing complexity, lower cost, improved efficiency, sensitivity, fidelity, and thinner and greater number of shape elements.

[0078] The acoustic response of the sound generator assembly in all the embodiments above is highly adjustable, including by configuring one or more structures, field strength, magnetic or magnetically induced components or conductive elements in a pattern / distribution, conductor size, number of turns of conductor, current, spacing of charged particle size, magnetization, coercivity, etc.

[0079] A sound generator assembly with configurable conductor shape

[0080] Embedding conductor structures into the surface of diaphragms or transmitter components using stacked (deposition-based) or subtractive (etching-based) fabrication methods offers several advantages, including the ability to fabricate substantially thin diaphragms or surfaces, and additionally, the ability to fabricate conductor structures of any desired shape or size.

[0081] Figures 8A to 8GExemplary embodiments of diaphragms 802 to 814, which can be manufactured according to the teachings of the present invention, are depicted. Diaphragm 802 includes diaphragm 802a, on which a single annular spiral conductive structure 802b is provided. Diaphragm 804 includes diaphragm surface 804a, on which a single rectangular spiral conductive structure 804b is provided. Diaphragm 806 includes triangular diaphragm surface 806a, on which a single triangular spiral conductive structure 806b is provided. Diaphragm 808 includes diaphragm surface 808a, on which a basic E-shaped conductive structure 808b is provided. Diaphragm 810 includes diaphragm surface 810a, on which a zigzag conductive structure 810b is provided. Diaphragm 812 includes diaphragm surface 812a, on which a plurality of spiral conductive structures 812b to 812f are provided. Diaphragm 814 includes diaphragm surface 814a, on which a first spiral conductive structure 814b and a second spiral conductive structure 814c deposited within the first spiral conductive structure 814b are provided. It is understood that by changing the shape and size of the conductive structures deposited or embedded within the membrane, the present invention achieves a specific configuration of the membrane for electric or magnetic fields. For example... Figure 8F and 8G In the described embodiments, the presence of multiple independent conductive structures on the same diaphragm enables a first portion of the diaphragm to respond in a first manner to a change in an electric or magnetic field, and a second portion of the diaphragm to respond in a second manner to a change in an electric or magnetic field, thereby creating a plurality of individually operable regions within a diaphragm and achieving a highly adjustable diaphragm response.

[0082] exist Figure 8H In the depiction, the diaphragm 816 includes a diaphragm surface 816a on which a first spiral conductive structure 816b is provided, located at the center of the diaphragm surface 816a, and having second, third, fourth and fifth spiral conductive structures 816c, 816d, 816e and 816f (each of which is relatively smaller in size than the first spiral conductive structure 816b) disposed around the first spiral conductive structure 816b.

[0083] exist Figure 8I In the depiction, the diaphragm 818 includes a diaphragm surface 818a on which a first spiral conductive structure 818b is disposed at the center of the diaphragm surface 818a, and has second, third, fourth and fifth spiral conductive structures 818c, 818d, 818e and 818f (each of which is relatively smaller in size than the first spiral conductive structure 818b) disposed around the first spiral conductive structure 818b.

[0084] By changing the configuration and position of the conductive structure, different regions of the diaphragm can be adjusted for different acoustic responses.

[0085] In another embodiment, a plurality of independent conductive structures can be connected to a plurality of independent signal input streams, each input signal stream corresponding to a signal / music channel, thus creating a sound generator assembly capable of generating multi-channel sound through a single diaphragm.

[0086] In some embodiments, the size or dimensions of the conductive structure can be varied to configure the diaphragm's response. In a specific embodiment, the dimensional characteristics of the conductive structure on a first portion of the diaphragm may differ from those on a second portion of the diaphragm, causing different acoustic responses in the first and second portions of the diaphragm, such as changes in electric, magnetic, or electrostatic fields.

[0087] exist Figure 9A In the depicted embodiment, the diaphragm 902 includes a diaphragm surface 902a on which a first conductive structure 902b and a second conductive structure 902c are provided, wherein the widths of the first conductive structure and the second conductive structure are significantly different. It is understood that in other embodiments, the shape, length, size, thickness, depth, density, number of turns, or any other dimensional characteristics of the elements of the first and second conductive structures may differ from each other to ensure different responses to changes in the field.

[0088] exist Figure 9C In the description, the diaphragm 916 includes a diaphragm surface 916a, on which first, second, third and fourth helical conductive structures 916b, 916c, 916d and 916e are provided, wherein conductive structures 916c and 916d have a higher turn density than conductive structures 916b and 916e.

[0089] exist Figure 9D In the description, the diaphragm 918 includes a diaphragm surface 918a on which first, second, third and fourth helical conductive structures 918b, 918c, 918d and 918e are provided, wherein conductive structures 918c and 918d have fewer turns than conductive structures 918d and 918e.

[0090] By changing the configuration and position of the conductive structure, different regions of the diaphragm can be adjusted for different acoustic responses.

[0091] It is understood that by implementing one or more of the above embodiments, a plurality of independent conductive structures can be connected to a plurality of independent input signal streams, each input signal stream corresponding to a signal / music channel, thus creating a sound generator assembly capable of generating multi-channel sound through a single diaphragm.

[0092] In other embodiments, the positions of the plurality of conductive structures are chosen precisely to configure the diaphragm for the desired acoustic response. For example, but not limited to, in different embodiments, the conductive structures may be uniformly distributed on the diaphragm, more densely distributed towards the center of the diaphragm, or distributed away from the center of the diaphragm.

[0093] In other embodiments, the positions of the plurality of conductive structures can be chosen such that a diaphragm is configured within a single membrane for multi-channel sound. For example, but not limited to, in different embodiments, the conductive structures can be uniformly distributed on the diaphragm such that no conductive structure is attached to another conductive structure, or they can be distributed in a concentric pattern of similar shapes, thereby increasing the distance between the center of the diaphragm and the button tails of the respective conductive structures near the center of the diaphragm.

[0094] Additionally, it is understood that the acoustic response of the diaphragm can also be varied by changing the thickness of the diaphragm itself, including in some embodiments having multiple regions within a single diaphragm, each region having a different thickness. Figure 9B A plurality of exemplary diaphragm cross sections are depicted, wherein diaphragm 904 has a uniform cross section, while diaphragms 906, 908, 910, 912 and 914 have non-uniform cross sections.

[0095] It is understood that, while all the configurable parameters described above have been in conjunction with an embodiment of a diaphragm having a conductive structure thereon, this teaching is equally applicable to the deposition, fixation, or embedding of charged particles or magnetically induced particles on or within the diaphragm surface. Specific parameters that may vary in these embodiments include the selection of charged or magnetically induced particles, particle size, particle density on / within the surface, layout or pattern of particle application, degree of magnetization, and / or coercivity of the particles.

[0096] The characteristics of the diaphragm surface that vary for the purpose of adjusting the acoustic response may include the selection of the diaphragm material, the thickness of the diaphragm (with a uniform cross-section), the variability of the diaphragm thickness (when the diaphragm has a non-uniform cross-section), and the external tension of the diaphragm.

[0097] In one embodiment of the invention, the external tension of the diaphragm is adjustable by adjusting one or more diaphragm mounting bases, tethers, or tension regulators (e.g., tensioning rods). In a more specific embodiment, the tension of the diaphragm can be adjusted manually or by an algorithm.

[0098] In other embodiments of the invention, the diaphragm characteristics can be varied by having a variable number of retainers or tethers, the arrangement of the retainers or tethers, and the structural characteristics of these retainers and tethers (such as spring constants).

[0099] A sound generator assembly with matching conductor and magnetic material shapes.

[0100] In one embodiment of the invention, a sound generator assembly may include a first surface having a conductive structure thereon and a second surface having a magnetic or magnetically induced structure thereon, wherein the first and second surfaces are configured such that an application of an electric field through the conductor or a current through the conductor will cause one of the first and second surfaces to move relative to the other of the first and second surfaces. In this embodiment, the conductive structure on the first surface and the magnetic or magnetically induced structure on the second surface are substantially identical in structure, which will cause the sound generator assembly to exhibit linear acoustic response characteristics. Combining the structurally identical shape of the conductive structure and the magnetic or magnetically induced structure with the superimposed / subtractive application for generating the conductive structure and / or the magnetic or magnetically induced structure can provide multiple improvements compared to other sound generator assemblies, including but not limited to efficiency, fidelity, rigidity, simpler design, structure, weight, size, cost, shape elements, and previously impossible applications.

[0101] Certain relative arrangements of conductive and magnetic or magnetically induced structures exhibit better performance. For example, in one embodiment, two structures are adjacent to each other, but neither is attached to the other, and the relative movement of one relative to the other is perpendicular to the plane of the structures. In another embodiment, two structures may be adjacent to each other such that one is attached to the other; in this case, the relative movement of the two structures is within the plane of the two structures, which will induce deformation (expansion or contraction) of the structure.

[0102] Figure 10A An embodiment of a sound generator assembly having a first surface 1002a and a second surface 1002b is depicted, wherein the triangular conductive structure 1004a disposed on the first surface 1002a and the corresponding triangular magnetic structure 1004b disposed on the second surface 1002b have substantially the same structure. Figure 10B An embodiment of a sound generator assembly having a first surface 1006a and a second surface 1006b is depicted, wherein the spiral conductive structure 1008a disposed on the first surface 1006a and the corresponding spiral magnetic structure 1008b disposed on the second surface 1006b have substantially the same structure.

[0103] Sound generator assembly with passive or active damping

[0104] In one embodiment of the invention, the diaphragm surface of the sound generator assembly is provided with a plurality of discrete conductor structures. The diaphragm surface includes at least one primary current-carrying conductor structure (i.e., a primary drive conductor structure), wherein the application of current through said conductor structure causes the diaphragm to move in or away from a magnetic, electrostatic, or electric field associated with or on a second surface. The diaphragm surface is additionally provided with one or more secondary conductor structures, which may or may not be current-carrying.

[0105] exist Figure 11 In the depicted embodiments, the diaphragm surface 1102 has a primary current-carrying conductor structure 1104 disposed thereon, and a plurality of secondary conductor structures 1106 to 1112. In embodiments where one or more secondary conductor structures are passive structures (the two ends of the conductor structures are interconnected), movement of the diaphragm causes the secondary conductor structures to move through an electrostatic field generated by the second surface, thereby generating an electromotive force and an induced current, and an electrostatic field corresponding to each secondary conductor structure. In embodiments of the invention, when the one or more secondary conductor structures are configured and placed, the interaction between the electrostatic field created by the primary current-carrying conductor structure and the generated electrostatic field with respect to each secondary conductor structure is opposite to the direction of diaphragm movement and serves as a damping mechanism for controlling and fine-tuning the diaphragm response.

[0106] In other embodiments of the invention, one or more secondary conductor structures may be active and excited by an external excitation source. When configured and placed, the electrostatic field generated by each secondary conductor structure interacts with the electrostatic field associated with the second surface, and depends on the configuration and position of the secondary conductor structure, or the direction of movement opposite to or supplementing the diaphragm. In specific embodiments, one or more secondary conductor structures may be driven by direct current, and the amplitude and direction applied thereto may be altered / active signals.

[0107] In a particular embodiment, one or both of the primary and secondary conductor structures are configured to have variable loop lengths and / or variable number of turns, such that the effective loop length and / or number of turns can be changed by shortening it, thereby adjusting the strength of the corresponding electric field generated by the loop. It is understood that the variable loop length provides further mechanical means for fine-tuning the acoustic response of the sound generator assembly.

[0108] In the present invention as Figure 8J In the depicted embodiment, the diaphragm 820 includes a diaphragm surface 820a, on which a first helical conductor structure 820b is disposed at the center of the diaphragm surface 820a, and second, third, fourth, and fifth helical conductor structures 820c, 820d, 820e, and 820f are disposed around the first helical conductor structure 820b. In this depiction, the first helical conductor structure is a primary conductor structure configured to be driven by a current / positive signal, while each of the second, third, fourth, and fifth helical conductor structures 820c, 820d, 820e, and 820f is a closed-loop structure and does not carry current / positive signals. By selecting the number and position of the primary current-carrying conductor structures and the secondary closed-loop structures, the diaphragm can be tuned for a specific acoustic response.

[0109] In the present invention as Figure 8KIn the depicted embodiment, the diaphragm 822 includes a diaphragm surface 822a, on which a first helical conductive structure 822b located at the center of the diaphragm surface 822a is provided, and a second helical conductive structure 822c, a third helical conductive structure 822d, a fourth helical conductive structure 822e, and a fifth helical conductive structure 822f are disposed around the first helical conductive structure 822b. In this depiction, (i) the first helical conductive structure 822b is a primary conductor structure configured to be driven by a DC / positive signal, (ii) the second helical conductive structure 822c is a conductor structure including a closed loop surrounded by a closed loop selected to carry a DC / positive signal or selected to be short-circuited, (iii) the third helical conductive structure 822d is a conductor structure configured to carry a DC / positive signal, (iv) the fourth helical conductive structure 822e is a conductor structure including a single closed loop, and (v) the fifth helical conductive structure 822f is a conductor structure including two concentrically arranged closed loops. By selecting any type of current-carrying conductor structure and the number and location of closed-loop structures, the diaphragm can be tuned for a specific acoustic response.

[0110] Rotary sound generator assembly

[0111] In one embodiment of the invention, the sound generator assembly may include a rotary sound generator, wherein the rotation speed may be varied for sound modulation.

[0112] Sound is produced by moving a medium, such as air, and modulating it to create pressure changes within the air that are a function of an input (audio) signal.

[0113] However, this function can be implemented using multiple mechanical devices: a first device for creating airflow and a second device for modulating the airflow to implement the characteristics of the input audio signal, such as amplitude, frequency, and phase. In such an embodiment, power / energy and modulation are handled by two isolated systems, eliminating the need for a conventional audio signal amplifier.

[0114] This airflow can be created by the movement of multiple structures such as wings, blades, sails, etc. An airfoil is the shape of such a structure.

[0115] The aforementioned types of devices or systems can be broadly classified into two categories based on how they create airflow:

[0116] Through oscillating motion (such as angle, linearity, etc.), and

[0117] Through rotational motion.

[0118] Existing technologies have involved the modulation of airflow for sound modulation, primarily by controlling the blade pitch, with particular emphasis on linear or torsional control of the pitch.

[0119] This invention provides a novel technique for modulating airflow and creating sound. The technique includes:

[0120] The airflow characteristics of an airfoil can be altered by means of changes such as volume, direct shape changes including folding, and by airfoil control, including but not limited to one or more of the following: rudder, elevator, aileron, damper, spoiler, elevator, balancer, flap, flaperon, trim tab, balance tab, anti-balance tab, servo tab, slat, slot, airfoil area change, moment of inertia, etc.

[0121] Changing the direction and / or speed of motion, and changing the higher-order derivative of that speed, on a static and / or dynamic basis.

[0122] The desired control can be achieved by one or more actuators. The actuator itself can be implemented by multiple devices, including but not limited to electromagnetic (such as electromagnets, motors), electrical (such as piezoelectric, including double piezoelectric crystals, polymorphs), electrothermal (such as bimetallic strips, heated fluids), fluid flow (such as hydraulics, pneumatics), etc.

[0123] Furthermore, such actuators can influence the control through one or more of the following: levers, oscillating discs, gears, pulleys, belts, chains, single-link / multi-link chain plates, swashplates, hydraulic hoses, slip rings, commutators, mercury contacts, inductors, capacitors, wireless, optical, etc.

[0124] In one embodiment, the control method / implementation may be incorporated into the blade structure itself to result in reductions in noise, design / manufacturing complexity, cost, etc., and enhancements in efficiency, reliability, performance, fidelity, sensitivity, etc.

[0125] In one embodiment of the invention, one or more external structures can be used to direct and / or restrict airflow to a desired area and / or direction, thus effectively serving as an acoustic waveguide.

[0126] These different approaches can be further combined to create additional implementations and / or improvements. An exemplary implementation includes multiple drivers optimized for specific parameters such as frequency response and the arrangement of the drivers in a coaxial position.

[0127] Figures 12A to 12D A first exemplary embodiment of the invention is depicted, including a motor 1200a and rotating blades 1200b to 1200f rotatably mounted on the motor. In a first mode of operation, as... Figure 12AThe blades 1200b to 1200f are depicted to have a first blade shape, while in a second mode of operation as depicted in experience 12C, the blades 1200b to 1200f have a second blade shape that is different from the first blade shape. Figure 12B and 12B The different blade shapes of blade 1200b are further described in the first and second operating modes. As mentioned above, the change in shape between the first and second operating modes can be achieved by any suitable actuator, including but not limited to electromagnetic (e.g., electromagnet, motor), electrical (e.g., piezoelectric, including double piezoelectric crystals, polygonal), electrothermal (e.g., bimetallic strip, heated fluid), and fluid flow (e.g., hydraulic, pneumatic). Figures 12A to 12D In this embodiment, the modulation of the airflow is achieved by changing the shape of the blades. This can be achieved using any of the devices described above. In a preferred embodiment, no hub is used to connect the blades, therefore the control of the blades is not achieved by a hub structure. Furthermore, since the blades are fixed relative to the motor in this embodiment, the change in airflow and the generation of sound are not achieved by changes in blade pitch controlled by torsion.

[0128] Figure 12E 12F(1) and 12F(2) depict different structures 1208, with rotating blades 1208b to 1208f respectively mounted on an outer cylindrical structure 1208a. Each blade is mounted on the structure via one or more pivots or other suitable connectors or mounts 1028g to 1208k. The pivotable mounting of the blades on the cylindrical structure allows the position of these blades to be optionally variable (for example, in...). Figure 12E In the manner shown up to 12F, at least from the first position to the second position), the airflow is modulated on the blades. It is understood that... Figure 12E Figure 12F(1) depicts a top view of structure 1208, and Figure 12F(2) depicts a cross-sectional view of structure 1208, its components, cylindrical structure 1208a, blades 1208b, 1208c and 1208d, and corresponding pivotable mounts 1208g, 1208h and 1208i.

[0129] Once again, it is worth mentioning that no hub is used to connect the blades; therefore, blade control is achieved through the hub structure. Airflow modulation is primarily achieved by changing the effective pitch of the blades. This pitch control can be achieved through any of the devices described above.

[0130] In such Figure 12G In a further embodiment 1212 depicted, an exemplary cylindrical structure 1208a or rotating blade assembly may be surrounded by an outer cylindrical structure 1212a and may be used as an acoustic waveguide.

[0131] Figures 12H to 12KAn exemplary embodiment of the device 1214 is depicted, including a motor 1214a and a plurality of blades 1214b to 1214d rotatable about the axis of the motor 1214a. Notably, in this embodiment, the blades are arranged to generate torque through their edges. Modulation of the airflow is primarily achieved by changing the effective torque of the blades by moving them in a manner approximating opening / closing petals or an umbrella. Torque control is accomplished by one or more actuators, which themselves can be implemented by the plurality of devices described above, and are not limited to electromagnetic actuators. Figure 12H A side view is provided. Figure 12J A main view of the first mode of operation is provided, in which blades 1214b to 1214d are close to each other (in some compressed or semi-enclosed configuration), while Figure 12I A side view is provided. Figure 12L A front view of the second mode of operation is provided, in which blades 1214b to 1214d are arranged in an deployed configuration. By switching between the first and second modes of operation (and other modes of operation), the device 1214 can modulate the airflow and correspondingly modulate the generation of sound based on the generated airflow.

[0132] Figure 12L An exemplary blade 1214b of the type described above is depicted, showing the direction of the torque generated by the airflow passing through the blade and through the end of the blade.

[0133] Figures 12M to 12O An embodiment of the invention is depicted, wherein the motor has a set of paired blades rotatably mounted thereon, wherein each pair of inner blades is controllably movable to move closer to or further away from the other pair of inner blades. Figure 12M and 12N Internally, the device 1224 includes a motor 1224a with a set of six rotating blades 1224b to 1224g, comprising three pairs of blades: a first pair of 1224b and 1224c, a second pair of 1224d and 1224e, and a third pair of 1224f and 1224g. Figure 12M In the first mode of operation depicted, each of the two blades within each pair of blades is offset from the other, so that all six blades are visible simultaneously when viewed along the longitudinal axis. Figure 12N In the second mode of the operation depicted, each of the two blades in each pair of blades is aligned with the other, so that when viewed along the longitudinal axis, only one blade 1224b, 1224e, 1224g of each blade pair is visible. Figure 12OA more specific embodiment 1228 of the device 1224, more generally depicted in 12M and 12N, is described, wherein each pair of blades 1228b and 1228c, 1228d and 1228e, and 1228f and 1228g includes an in-line connection or in-line fastening assembly, wherein the blades within each pair are interconnected using tethers or other fasteners 1228h, 1228i, and 1228j. The tethers of the fasteners may be selected to limit the maximum permissible separation of the blades within each blade pair. It is understood that actuation of the relative movement between the blades within each blade pair can be achieved in any number of ways, including based on one or more actuators as described above.

[0134] Figure 12P A perspective view was depicted. Figure 12Q A front view of another device 1230 is depicted, in which two different sets of blades 1230a and 1230b are mounted along the same axis. The airflow generated by the blades can be controlled by controlling the relative rotation and / or relative separation of the two different sets of blades.

[0135] Figure 12R Different embodiments 1232 of the invention are depicted, wherein two separate motors 1232a, 1232a' and corresponding blade assemblies 1232b, 1232b' are used to modulate airflow. By modulating the respective airflow caused by one or both of the two assemblies, the overall airflow (and the sound generated by such airflow) can be modulated.

[0136] Figure 12S 12T(1) and 12T(2) depict another embodiment 1234 of the invention, wherein the shape / control surface characteristics of an oscillating surface can be changed using a piezoelectric bicrystalline wafer. In this depiction, the oscillating motor 1234a has an oscillating surface 1234b mounted thereon, wherein the oscillating surface has a plurality of piezoelectric bicrystalline wafers 1234c to 1234e disposed thereon. Figure 12S A first mode of operation is depicted, in which a signal transmitted to the piezoelectric bicrystalline wafer causes the oscillating surface 1234b to contract, while Figure 12T(1) depicts a second mode of operation, in which a signal transmitted to the piezoelectric bicrystalline wafer causes the oscillating surface 1234b to expand. By changing the shape of the oscillating surface 1234b, the present invention controls the oscillation of the oscillating surface, and one or more other methods, including but not limited to torque control, shape control, or any other method described above, generating airflow, and correspondingly controls the resulting acoustic signal. Figure 12T(2) shows a side view of embodiment 1234, depicting the oscillating motion of the oscillating surface 1234b caused by the oscillating motor 1234a.

[0137] Membrane / Separator Structure

[0138] Ideally, the diaphragm / surface needs to be rigid to prevent itself from deforming and losing efficiency, as well as to introduce deformation into the air being replaced. However, the common practice to achieve rigidity is to make the diaphragm / surface very stiff, which involves proper support and other methods, thus increasing weight and reducing efficiency and fidelity.

[0139] This invention provides a very lightweight yet rigid diaphragm / surface. The diaphragm material consists of a hollow layer, a polymer foam, thus the lightweight material can maintain its shape under pressure and movement. It can then be further reinforced by covering it from both sides with a very thin layer of membrane material, so that the membrane material completely encapsulates it and imparts strength and structural integrity.

[0140] like Figure 12U and 12V In a preferred embodiment depicted, the invention provides an additional structure 1238 with exceptional strength and / or stiffness, while offering significant weight-related advantages (i.e., markedly lighter than known structures). This structure 1238 comprises two thin films 1238a and 1238b (or a single self-folding film) of a non-porous material, which may be positioned on top of each other (preferably separated by a gasket 1238d of the type previously described in the specification) and sealed at the edges. Pressurized gas (such as air) can then be introduced into the resulting sealed compartment. The expansion tendency of the gas imparts rigidity and stiffness to the entire structure, while remaining very lightweight. Optionally, a lightweight mechanical device, such as one or more fasteners 1238c, 1238e (e.g., rivets, star-shaped nails, wires, or other fasteners), may be used to prevent the entire structure from expanding unevenly, like a balloon or lens. The structure may be hardened by the use of lightweight and sufficiently strong internal gaskets to support structural integrity, such as lightweight, hollow tubes. This diaphragm can be used in constrained or unconstrained acoustic signal applications, and it is very lightweight yet rigid, thus improving efficiency, fidelity, power, simplifying design / manufacturability, and reducing costs.

[0141] Additionally, conductors or magnetic materials can be paired with diaphragms on the outer or even inner surfaces to achieve greater integrity and / or reliability.

[0142] Drum assembly

[0143] In one embodiment of the invention, one or more components may be implemented as a drum assembly, wherein the drum diaphragm may have one or more of the diaphragm characteristics described above, and the acoustic or percussion response of the drum diaphragm may be tuned using any means readily apparent to those skilled in the art, including but not limited to stepper motors, torsion screws, or other mechanical devices described above.

[0144] Figure 13An exploded view of an exemplary drum assembly 1300 is depicted, including a drum body 12302, a first surface 1306 having a conductor structure 1306 formed thereon, and a second surface 1308 having magnetic or magnetically induced particles disposed thereon.

[0145] It is understood that, within the drum assembly, according to the components described above, by implementing a combination of conductive structures and magnetic or magnetically inductive structures, the present invention allows for multiple end applications, including (i) a combined drum / sound generator, (ii) a combined drum / microphone, (iii) a combined drum / sound generator / microphone, or (iv) a finely adjustable drum. As described above, the drum assembly can be passive or standard, internally actively finely adjustable or tensioned, or externally adjustable or tensioned (either manually or algorithmically).

[0146] Built-in microphone component

[0147] A key feature of this invention is the creation of an inherently built-in microphone using any of the components or configurations described above. The microphone can be used in multiple modes: speaker-only, microphone-only, and a speaker / noise reduction (NC) combined mode. Further applications are possible in noisy environments such as workplaces, vehicles, etc. The microphone's significantly larger sound acquisition area makes it highly sensitive, thus enabling deployment in a wide range of applications. The thinness of the components expands the applications that can be used.

[0148] Thin / flat sound technology is applicable across the entire sound range. The system can take various forms, including but not limited to freestanding, mounted on brackets / walls / ceilings / doors, mounted on furniture (e.g., desktops, chair backs / headrests), car headrests (with or without standard / custom / per-ear effective noise cancellation), wrapped / integrated into another object such as lampshades, light fixtures, or personal / portable devices such as headphones, earphones, purses, etc. The potential forms and / or applications are left to the imagination.

[0149] All applications can be further used in various modes: speaker only, microphone only, and a speaker / microphone combination mode for effective noise reduction / de-noise. Users and / or applications can dynamically select the mode to apply.

[0150] Exemplary embodiments of the invention have been described and depicted herein, and it will be understood that they are merely illustrative. Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications in form and detail may be made without departing from or violating the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Furthermore, the illustrative disclosure of the invention may suitably be implemented without any elements not specifically disclosed herein, and, in particular consideration of specific implementations, is intended to be implemented without any elements not specifically disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A component for generating sound, the component comprising: The first surface; A second surface; The first surface is a magnetized diaphragm, which includes or has a permanent magnet, magnetic sensing particles or one or more magnetic sensing layers disposed thereon or therein, wherein the magnetic sensing particles or one or more magnetic sensing layers are fixed on or inside the magnetized diaphragm, coated on the magnetized diaphragm, embedded or sandwiched in the magnetized diaphragm. The second surface is coupled to an electromagnetic field generating structure or a permanent magnetization device; The first surface and the second surface are positioned relative to each other and spaced apart, such that at least one of the first surface and the second surface moves relative to the other of the first surface and the second surface when (i) by an electromagnetic field generated by applying a current to an electromagnetic field generating structure coupled to the second surface, or (ii) by a magnetic field formed by a permanent magnet device connected to the second surface. The magnetized diaphragm comprises a plurality of non-porous membranes sealed together to form one or more liquid-tight compartments, wherein the one or more liquid-tight compartments are expanded using gas.

2. The component of claim 1, wherein the one or more liquid-tight compartments are expanded using a gas at atmospheric pressure or above atmospheric pressure.

3. The component of claim 1, wherein the boundaries of one or more liquid-tight compartments are: It is equipped with a plurality of rigid gaskets with non-porous membranes, and One or more fasteners that define the edges of the one or more liquid-tight compartments One or more of them are established.

4. The component of claim 1, wherein each of the first surface and the second surface is mounted on opposite sides of a gasket such that the first surface and the second surface are spaced apart from each other.

5. The component of claim 1, wherein the first surface and the second surface are coaxially arranged annular surfaces.

6. The component of claim 1, wherein the magnetized diaphragm has an extended structure.

7. The component of claim 1, wherein the first surface and the second surface are interconnected by a plurality of elastic tethers.

8. The component of claim 1, wherein the magnetized diaphragm comprises a plurality of flexibly interconnected diaphragm segments.

9. The component of claim 1, wherein one or each of the first surface and the second surface comprises a helical surface.

10. The component of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first surface and the second surface is provided with one or more rigid adjusters.

11. The component of claim 1, wherein the second surface has one or more conductive structures having a positive or negative polarity thereon.

12. The component of claim 1, wherein the second surface has one or more conductive structures, each of the conductive structures being disposed between the two substrate layers.

13. The component of claim 1, wherein the second surface includes a conductive mesh structure having a non-conductive filler material spaced between the conductive elements of the mesh structure.

14. The component of claim 13, wherein the periphery of the filler material in each interval is separated from the periphery of the filler material in at least one adjacent gap.

15. The component of claim 1, wherein the second surface includes a conductive mesh structure and has air gaps spaced between the conductive elements of the mesh structure.

16. The component of claim 1, wherein the second surface includes a conductive mesh structure having non-conductive filler material spaced between conductive elements of the mesh structure, wherein the periphery of the filler material in each gap is separated from the periphery of the filler material in at least one adjacent gap.

17. The component of claim 1, wherein the second surface includes a conductive structure disposed thereon, and the first surface includes an electromagnetic field induction structure disposed thereon, wherein the conductive structure and the electromagnetic field induction structure have the same structure.

18. The component of claim 1, wherein the second surface includes a plurality of conductive structures disposed thereon, wherein each of the plurality of conductive structures is electrically isolated from the others.

19. The component of claim 18, wherein one of the plurality of conductive structures is configured to carry current, and at least one of the plurality of conductive structures is isolated from any externally applied current.

20. The component of claim 18, wherein one of the plurality of conductive structures is configured to carry a first current, and another of the plurality of conductive structures is configured to carry a second current, wherein the first current and the second current are electrically isolated from each other.

21. The component of claim 18, wherein one of the plurality of conductive structures has different structural characteristics compared to at least one of the plurality of conductive structures.

22. The component of claim 1, wherein the magnetized diaphragm has a first cross-sectional thickness, and at least one additional diaphragm region has a cross-sectional thickness different from the first cross-sectional thickness.

23. The component of claim 1, wherein one of the first surface and the second surface is configured as an input diaphragm.

24. The component of claim 1, wherein one of the first surface and the second surface is configured as a microphone diaphragm.

25. The component of claim 18, wherein one of the plurality of independent conductive structures is connected to a first input signal stream corresponding to a first audio channel, and another of the plurality of independent conductive structures is connected to a second input signal stream corresponding to a second audio channel.

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