Airflow exhaust geometry

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to airflow exhaust geometry. The present disclosure relates to loudspeakers, and more particularly, to array loudspeakers for uniformly distributing music throughout a room. A plurality of audio drivers may be radially distributed within the speaker housing such that the outputs of the drivers are uniformly distributed throughout the room. In some embodiments, the exit geometry of the audio driver may be configured to rebound from a surface supporting the array speaker to improve the distribution of music throughout the room. The array speaker may include a plurality of vibration isolation elements distributed within a housing of the array speaker. The vibration isolation element may be configured to reduce an intensity of a force generated by a subwoofer of the array speaker.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of a divisional application with an application date of August 31, 2017, application number 202010553084.7, and invention name “Airflow Discharge Geometry”.

[0002] The divisional application with application number 202010553084.7 is a divisional application of the invention patent application with application date of August 31, 2017, application number 201710766853.X and invention name “Airflow discharge geometry”.

[0003] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0004] This application claims priority to U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 15 / 613,054 filed on June 2, 2017, U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 15 / 613,060 filed on June 2, 2017, U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 15 / 613,063 filed on June 2, 2017, U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 15 / 613,066 filed on June 2, 2017, U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 15 / 613,073 filed on June 2, 2017, and U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 15 / 613,079 filed on June 2, 2017, which are all The present invention specifically claims the benefit of priority of the following patent applications: U.S. Provisional Patent Application 62 / 399,165 filed on September 23, 2016, U.S. Provisional Patent Application 62 / 399,229 filed on September 23, 2016, U.S. Provisional Patent Application 62 / 399,262 filed on September 23, 2016, U.S. Provisional Patent Application 62 / 399,293 filed on September 23, 2016, U.S. Provisional Patent Application 62 / 399,288 filed on September 23, 2016, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application 62 / 507,007 filed on May 16, 2017. The disclosures of said patent applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety and for all purposes. Technical Field

[0005] The present disclosure is generally applicable to loudspeakers. In particular, an array of loudspeakers housed in a cylindrical enclosure is described. Background Art

[0006] Conventional speakers are often directional in nature, which can have the effect of leaving dead spots in a room. Large arrays of speakers are often distributed around a room to achieve a substantially uniform level of audio performance throughout the room. Conventional speakers can also be affected by vibration excursions in a particular playback regime. For example, a subwoofer can cause noticeable hum and / or movement of the speaker, depending on the volume and frequency of the music being played back. Therefore, improvements in speaker design are desired. Summary of the invention

[0007] This disclosure describes various implementations directed to electronic devices incorporating speakers or speaker arrays.

[0008] An array speaker is disclosed, which includes the following parts: an axisymmetric device housing; a plurality of audio driver assemblies radially distributed around the interior of the axisymmetric device housing; and a power supply unit positioned between two or more of the audio driver assemblies.

[0009] An electronic device is disclosed that includes a device housing; and audio driver assemblies arranged in a circular configuration within the device housing, with the diaphragm of each audio driver assembly arranged so that audio waves generated by the diaphragm are initially oriented toward a central area of ​​the circular configuration.

[0010] An electronic device is disclosed, the device comprising an axisymmetric housing; an array of audio driver assemblies arranged at regular radial intervals within the axisymmetric housing, each of the audio driver assemblies being configured to generate audio waves that exit the substantially axisymmetric housing through an acoustic vent defined by a downwardly facing end of the axisymmetric housing.

[0011] An electronic device is disclosed, the device including a subwoofer having a diaphragm, a coil coupled to the diaphragm and configured to emit a varying magnetic field, and a permanent magnet configured to interact with the varying magnetic field generated by the coil to cause the diaphragm to move axially, the permanent magnet including lobes protruding radially therefrom.

[0012] A speaker is disclosed, comprising a device housing, a subwoofer disposed within the device housing and having a diaphragm configured to oscillate in a direction aligned with a longitudinal axis of the device housing, the subwoofer comprising a permanent magnet comprising a plurality of protrusions distributed around the longitudinal axis of the device housing at regular radial intervals.

[0013] An electronic device is disclosed, comprising: a device housing; a subwoofer disposed within the device housing and including a permanent magnet having lobes radially protruding therefrom; an audio driver assembly disposed within the device housing; and a capacitor configured to supply power to the audio driver assembly and positioned between two lobes.

[0014] An audio driver is disclosed, comprising the following parts: a driver housing defining an audio outlet opening; a diaphragm disposed in the driver housing; and a phase plug assembly disposed between the diaphragm and the audio outlet opening. The diaphragm phase plug assembly separates a front cavity from a rear cavity, and a portion of the rear cavity extends toward the audio outlet opening and through the diaphragm.

[0015] An array speaker is disclosed, comprising the following parts: a first audio driver assembly, which is arranged between a second audio driver assembly and a third audio driver assembly, the first audio driver assembly comprising: a driver housing defining an audio exhaust opening; a diaphragm arranged in the driver housing; and a phase plug arranged between the diaphragm and the audio exhaust opening, the phase plug separating a front cavity from a rear cavity, a portion of the rear cavity extending toward the audio exhaust opening and through the diaphragm.

[0016] An audio driver assembly is disclosed, comprising the following parts: a driver housing defining an audio discharge opening; a phase plug separating a front cavity from a rear cavity, a portion of the rear cavity extending toward the audio discharge opening; a U-shaped cup engaged with the phase plug to define an inner cavity; a diaphragm disposed within the inner cavity and coupled to a conductive coil configured to generate a varying magnetic field; and a driver magnet coupled to the U-shaped cup and configured to interact with the varying magnetic field. The interaction between the varying magnetic field and a portion of the magnetic field emitted by the driver magnet disposed within an air gap between a top plate and an inwardly facing wall of the U-shaped cup causes the diaphragm to oscillate within the inner cavity.

[0017] A speaker is disclosed, comprising: a device housing; a user interface assembly disposed at an end of the device housing; a printed circuit board (PCB) secured to an interior-facing surface of the user interface assembly; and a subwoofer configured to push air toward the PCB during operation of the speaker.

[0018] An electronic device is disclosed that includes the following parts: a device housing; a user interface assembly; a printed circuit board (PCB) secured to an interior-facing surface of the user interface assembly; and an audio component having a diaphragm configured to push air toward the PCB during operation of the electronic device.

[0019] An array speaker is disclosed, comprising the following parts: an array of audio driver assemblies arranged in a circular geometry; a speaker housing that defines an audio exhaust channel for each audio driver assembly; and a foot supporting the speaker housing, the foot having a smaller diameter than the speaker housing, a surface of the foot cooperating with a surface of the speaker housing to define an exit area for each audio exhaust channel, a first distance from the periphery of the foot to the outer edge of the speaker housing being greater than a second distance from the distal end of the foot to a downwardly facing surface of the speaker housing.

[0020] An electronic device is disclosed, comprising: an axisymmetric device housing; an audio driver assembly disposed within the axisymmetric device housing; and a foot having a diameter significantly smaller than the axisymmetric device housing, the foot cooperating with a downwardly facing surface of the axisymmetric device housing to define an audio exhaust area, the audio exhaust area being shaped to expand audio waves generated by the audio driver assembly as the audio waves leave the axisymmetric device housing.

[0021] An electronic device is disclosed, comprising the following parts: a device housing including an upper housing component and a lower housing component; a circular support member engaged with threads defined by the lower housing component; a subwoofer coupled to the circular support member; and a fastener extending through an opening defined by the upper housing component and engaging the circular support member.

[0022] An electronic device is disclosed, comprising the following parts: a device housing, including a first housing component and a second housing component that cooperate to define an interior cavity; a circular support member that is disposed within the interior cavity and engages with threads arranged along an interior-facing surface of the first housing component; and an audio component coupled to the circular support member, the audio component including a diaphragm that is configured to oscillate in a direction aligned with a longitudinal axis of the device housing.

[0023] A speaker device is disclosed, comprising the following parts: an axisymmetric device housing, which includes an upper housing component, and a lower housing component coupled to the upper housing component; a support structure engaged with threads disposed along an interior-facing surface of the lower housing component, the support structure comprising: a first circular member, and a second circular member coupled to the first circular member; a subwoofer coupled to the support structure and filling a central opening defined by the support structure; and a fastener extending through the opening defined by the upper housing component and engaging the circular support member.

[0024] A user interface is disclosed, comprising the following parts: an outer surface configured to receive touch input; light sources configured to direct light toward the outer surface and arranged in a lens pattern; and a single-piece lens array disposed between the light source and the outer surface, the lens array comprising lenses arranged in the lens pattern, each lens protruding from a transparent substrate and having a surface facing a corresponding one of the light sources.

[0025] An electronic device is disclosed, comprising the following parts: a device housing; and a user interface arranged along an outer surface at a first end of the device housing, the user interface comprising: a light source configured to illuminate an area of ​​the outer surface, and a single-piece lens array, comprising: lenses arranged in a lens pattern, each lens protruding from a transparent substrate and having a concave surface facing a corresponding one of the light sources.

[0026] A speaker device is disclosed, comprising the following parts: a device housing; a speaker driver assembly disposed within the device housing; and a user interface, including: an aesthetic surface configured to receive touch input and arranged along an outer surface of the device housing; a light source configured to emit light toward the aesthetic surface; and a lens array disposed between the light source and the aesthetic surface, the lens array comprising lenses arranged in a lens pattern, each lens protruding from a transparent substrate and having a concave surface facing a corresponding one of the light sources.

[0027] Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate by way of example the principles of the described embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] The present disclosure will be readily understood through the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals indicate like structural elements, and in which:

[0029] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an array speaker;

[0030] Figure 2A showing a cross-sectional view of an array speaker including only components disposed within a lower third of the array speaker;

[0031] Figure 2B A simplified diagram showing one side of an array speaker and associated audio exhaust channels;

[0032] Figure 2C An internal schematic diagram showing an audio exhaust channel associated with one of the audio drivers of an array speaker and how audio waves are propagated through the audio exhaust channel;

[0033] Figure 3A-3B 2 respectively show cross-sectional views of the array speaker according to the cross-sectional lines AA and BB of FIG. 2 ;

[0034] Figure 4 showing a perspective view of a plurality of drive assemblies;

[0035] Figure 5A showing a perspective view of the rear of the drive assembly;

[0036] Figure 5B-Figure 5C showing cross-sectional views of various embodiments in which fasteners are used as part of a conductive path;

[0037] Figure 6 An exploded view of the drive assembly is shown.

[0038] Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of a driver assembly;

[0039] Figure 8 showing a cross-sectional view of an array speaker including only components located within a central portion of the array speaker;

[0040] Fig. 9A A subwoofer is shown including a magnet extending radially from the subwoofer;

[0041] Fig. 9B Shows Fig. 9AA subwoofer and a plurality of capacitors arranged around the subwoofer are shown;

[0042] Fig. 9C A subwoofer with a magnet having a plurality of protruding lobes is shown;

[0043] Fig.9D Shows Fig. 9C A subwoofer is shown with a plurality of capacitors arranged between the magnet lobes;

[0044] Fig. 10A shows a perspective view of a subwoofer having a lip with a plurality of notches configured to receive fasteners;

[0045] Fig. 10B Grommets suitable for mounting a subwoofer are shown;

[0046] Fig.11A An exploded view of a convex user interface is shown;

[0047] Fig. 11B shows a cross-sectional view of an assembled convex user interface;

[0048] Fig. 11C shows a cross-sectional view of a convex user interface mounted within an array speaker;

[0049] Figure 12A-12C showing various views of a seal for sealing a first interior portion of a device from a second interior portion of the device;

[0050] Figure 13A-13B shows how an upper housing component may be attached to a lower housing component; and

[0051] Figures 14A-14D Various views of the cantilevered foot are shown;

[0052] Fig.15 shows an exploded view of another convex user interface;

[0053] Fig.16A Shows Fig.15 the downward facing surface of the lens array shown in;

[0054] Fig. 16B Shows Fig.15 A cross-sectional side view of a portion of a convex user interface shown in FIG. Fig.16A The lens array of cross-sectional line EE shown in ;

[0055] Fig.17A showing an exploded cross-sectional view of an expandable opening defined by one end of an outer aesthetic fabric;

[0056] Fig. 17Bshows a cross-sectional view of the outer aesthetic fabric completely adhered together and how both ends of the draw tape may protrude from the same radial position of the outer aesthetic fabric;

[0057] Figure 17C-Figure 17D showing a top view of an exterior aesthetic fabric mounted around an upper housing member of an array speaker;

[0058] Fig.18 An exploded view of the halo assembly is shown;

[0059] Fig.19 showing a partial cross-sectional view of a speaker device in which a halo assembly is installed;

[0060] Fig. 20 shows how the upper housing component may be secured to the halo assembly by fasteners;

[0061] Fig.21 shows a perspective view of an alternative upper housing component defining diamond-shaped vents;

[0062] Fig. 22 A diagram of electronics indicating different types of connections capable of communicating and / or interacting with the array speaker is shown; and

[0063] Fig.23 A block diagram is shown, illustrating the communication and interoperation between the various electronic components of the array speaker. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] Representative applications of the methods and devices according to the present application are described in this section. These examples are provided only to add context and help understand the embodiments. Therefore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other cases, in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the embodiments, well-known processing steps are not described in detail. Other applications are also possible, so that the following examples should not be considered restrictive.

[0065] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part of the specification and in which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in accordance with the described embodiments. Although these embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments, it is to be understood that these examples are not limiting, such that other embodiments may be used and changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments.

[0066] When high quality audio playback is desired, the speaker configuration is often oversized and the audio output may be highly directional in nature. This often requires the user to be in a specific position to obtain the desired quality level of audio content generated by the speakers. For example, a multi-channel speaker setup may require the speakers to be installed in multiple different corners of a room to achieve a substantially uniform distribution of sound within the room.

[0067] One way to reduce the size of a speaker configuration and simplify the speaker setup while maintaining an even distribution of sound in a room is to package multiple mid-range to high-frequency drivers into a single housing. The drivers can be distributed within the speaker device so that the audio exhaust channels associated with the drivers are distributed at regular radial intervals along the periphery of the speaker device. In some embodiments, beamforming techniques can be applied to improve audio performance by adjusting the audio discharged from adjacent audio exhaust openings so as to generate constructive interference. In a specific embodiment, the drivers can be positioned in a circular arrangement within a cylindrical housing to achieve an even radial distribution of sound. Destructive interference caused by reflections from a supporting surface can be prevented by orienting the audio exhaust openings adjacent to the supporting surface on which the device is positioned.

[0068] In some embodiments, the size of the speaker device can be reduced by packaging the various internal components in close proximity. For example, the power supply unit can be positioned within a central recess defined by the circular arrangement of the drivers. In some embodiments, the capacitor can be positioned between the centrally located subwoofer and the side walls of the device housing of the speaker device. In a specific embodiment, the magnets of the subwoofer can be specifically shaped to accommodate a larger capacitor between the subwoofer and the side walls of the speaker device.

[0069] When the speaker device also includes processing components, heat dissipation may also be important. In some embodiments, the main logic board of the speaker device can be positioned in front of the subwoofer so that the air pushed by the subwoofer can dissipate heat from the heat-generating components of the main logic board by convection.

[0070] Enclosing a subwoofer within a speaker device can generate vibrations that may cause unwanted hum or movement within the speaker device. In some embodiments, a fastener with an elastomeric locking ring can be used to attach the subwoofer to a mounting bracket within the device housing. The elastomeric locking ring can reduce the amount of vibration that the subwoofer imparts to the rest of the speaker device.

[0071] In some embodiments, the mounting bracket can take the form of an annular support structure that is positioned within a device housing of the speaker device by rotating the annular support structure along threads disposed along an inner surface of the device housing. The mounting bracket can be configured to receive fasteners associated with an upper housing component of the device housing and the subwoofer. In some embodiments, the annular support structure can be formed of two separate rings that are compressed together by a series of fasteners.

[0072] In some embodiments, the speaker device may include a touch-based user interface positioned on the top surface of the speaker device. The touch-based user interface may include lighting that illuminates different areas of the touch-based user interface. For example, a central portion of the user interface may be illuminated in a wheel pattern of colors in response to received or processed voice commands. The wheel pattern of colors may be generated by an LED array embedded below the outer surface of the touch-based user interface. Other illuminated controls on the touch-based user interface may include a volume control. The touch-based user interface may utilize a capacitive touch sensor or other touch sensor suitable for detecting gesture-based touch input.

[0073] References below Figure 1-Figure 23 These and other embodiments are discussed; however, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.

[0074] Figure 1 A perspective view of the array speaker 100 is shown. The array speaker 100 can have a complete and aesthetically pleasing exterior surface and a symmetrical substantially cylindrical geometry. As used herein, the term "substantially cylindrical geometry" refers to a completely cylindrical geometry (i.e., a geometry including parallel straight faces and having a circular or elliptical cross-section) and a geometry in which the sides of the top and / or bottom edges are more inclined and rounded than an actual cylinder. The array speaker 100 can also have different geometries. For example, a device housing for an array speaker can have many different axisymmetric shapes, allowing audio device components to be radially distributed within the device housing. An axisymmetric geometry refers to a shape having symmetry around at least one axis. In the described embodiment, the device housing presents an axisymmetric geometry that has symmetry about the longitudinal axis of the device housing. It should also be noted that the term axisymmetric can also be interpreted as covering shapes that are substantially symmetrical about one axis. For example, for the purposes of the following description, a small depression or protrusion does not exclude the housing from being described as having an axisymmetric geometry.

[0075] The upper portion of the array speaker 100 may include a user interface 102. The user interface 102 may allow the user to adjust the settings for the array speaker 100. For example, track selection and volume changes may be handled by interacting with the user interface 102. In some embodiments, the user interface 102 may take the form of a touch-sensitive surface. The user interface 102 may include one or more light sources that illuminate various areas of the user interface 102 to help the user interact with the user interface 102. Most of the array speaker 100 may be covered by an acoustic fabric 104. The acoustic fabric 104 may give the array speaker 100 a conforming external surface. Some audio exhaust ports may be concealed by the acoustic fabric 104, thereby having minimal impact on the audio volume and / or quality discharged from the array speaker 100.

[0076] Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of an array speaker 100 including only components disposed within the lower third of the array speaker 100 is shown. Specifically, a cross-section of one audio driver assembly 202 is shown. The audio driver assembly 202 may include a driver housing 204 that surrounds the audio components that make up the audio driver assembly 202 and defines a rectangular channel 206 for allowing audio generated by a diaphragm 207 of the audio driver assembly 202 to exit the driver housing 204. The audio driver assembly 202 may be fastened to a lower housing component 208 by fasteners 210. The driver housing 204 may be rotated so that the rectangular channel 206 is aligned with an audio exhaust channel 212 defined by the lower housing component 208. Due to the exhaust geometry of the audio exhaust channel 212, audio waves 214 exiting the audio exhaust channel 212 travel through the acoustic fabric 104 and along a support surface 216 on which the array speaker 100 rests. In some embodiments, the acoustic fabric 104 may have a pattern designed to conceal components or features positioned beneath the acoustic fabric 104.

[0077] Figure 2AA power socket 220 is also shown. The power socket 220 can extend between two adjacent audio driver assemblies 202 to route power to various components within the array speaker 100. The power socket 220 can be electrically coupled to a power supply unit 222 via a conductive cable 224. In some embodiments, the power supply unit 222 can be coupled to a power supply board 226, which in turn is coupled to the lower housing component 208. The power supply unit 222 extends into the recess defined by the audio driver assembly 202. The audio driver assemblies 202 are radially distributed at regular intervals around the array speaker 100. In this way, the power supply unit 222 utilizes the space available within the recess defined by the audio driver assembly 202. In some embodiments, the amplifier board 228 and the components distributed thereon can also be electrically coupled to the power supply unit 222 and the power socket 220 via the conductive cable 224. Figure 2A Also shown is a cantilevered foot 230 that supports the weight of the array speaker 100 above the support surface 216. The cantilevered foot 230 can be formed of a damping material, such as silicone, that is configured to minimize the amount of vibration transmitted from the array speaker 100 to the support surface 216. The cantilevered foot 230 can be configured to dissipate forces transmitted in the Z axis and moments acting about the X and / or Y axes. The wide body and symmetrical footprint of the cantilevered foot 230 also help prevent the speaker from rocking due to moments acting about the X and / or Y axes.

[0078] Figure 2B An internal cross-sectional view of one side of the array speaker 100 is shown, showing the diaphragm 207 and the audio exhaust channel 212 associated with one of the audio driver assemblies 202. The various dimensions of the outlet of the audio exhaust channel 212 are plotted in millimeters. Specifically, the distance between the end of the audio exhaust channel 212 and the side wall edge 229 of the lower housing component 208 is approximately 1.5 times the height of the downward surface of the array speaker 100 offset from the support surface for supporting the array speaker 100. The height of the foot 230 just below the outlet area of ​​the audio exhaust channel 212 is approximately half the distance from the support surface 216 to the top surface of the audio exhaust channel 212. In some embodiments, at the outlet area, the thickness of the perimeter of the foot 230 is approximately 6 / 11 of the distance 231 between the distal end of the foot 230 (or support surface 216) and the top surface of the audio exhaust channel 212. This geometry causes high frequency audio waves to travel around the corners of the feet 230 and the outer edge corners of the housing, thereby achieving more vertical directivity for low and high frequency audio waves. The distance 232 between the edge of the lower housing member 208 and the perimeter of the feet can be slightly longer than the distance 231. This allows the downward facing surface of the lower housing member 208 to help shape the audio waves as they leave the speaker device. In some embodiments, the ratio of distance 231 to distance 232 can be approximately 11 / 15.

[0079] Figure 2C FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the interior of the lower area of ​​the array speaker 100 . Figure 2C 206 and the audio exhaust channel 212. The dashed lines 234 depicted within the rectangular channel 206 and the audio exhaust channel 212 represent sound waves generated by the diaphragm 207. Specifically, the dashed lines 234 are depicted as turning in different areas of the rectangular channel 206 and the audio exhaust channel 212. These channels are intentionally shaped to minimize destructive interference, which may adversely affect the mass and / or volume generated by the vibration of the diaphragm 207. For example, the turns in the audio channel guide the sound waves, thereby maintaining a coherent wave front along the length of the audio channel. The shape of the audio channel also helps to guide the audio waves in a direction 236 that is oriented radially outward and upward, which causes the wave front that expands along the spherical surface to move away from the supporting surface on which the lower housing member 208 rests. Although the audio wave is depicted in two dimensions by dashed line 234 , it should be understood that the audio wave has a three-dimensional profile that extends circumferentially within and outside of lower housing member 208 . Figure 2C Also shown is how the audio waves generated by the diaphragm 602 are turned in a direction substantially orthogonal to the initial direction in which the audio waves were initially generated. For example, the audio waves may be deflected 70 to 80 degrees in direction before exiting the driver housing 204 through the audio exhaust opening 710.

[0080] Figure 3A Shown according to Figure 2A2 is a cross-sectional view of the array speaker 100 along the cross-sectional line AA of FIG. Each driver assembly includes an adapter 302 configured to position a phase plug 304 within the driver housing 204. The phase plug 304 reduces destructive interference by directing audio waves from a large surface area of ​​the diaphragm to a small inlet area of ​​the horn throat rather than allowing the audio waves to destructively interact near the diaphragm. The phase plug also helps to set the shape of the sound waves leaving the audio driver assembly 202 to be consistent with a non-circular shape, or in some cases, with a rectangular channel 206 and an audio exhaust channel 212. The periphery of the diaphragm associated with the coil assembly 306 is engaged with the phase plug 304 as shown. The coil assembly 306 includes a wire coil attached to a central portion of the diaphragm and configured to generate an offset magnetic field that is configured to interact with a permanent magnet 308, thereby causing the diaphragm to generate fluctuations. When the offset magnetic field interacts with the field generated by the permanent magnet 308, the diaphragm vibrates at a rate suitable for generating audio waves associated with a media file played back by the array speaker 100. Behind the permanent magnet 308 is a support assembly, which takes the form of a magnetic motor assembly, including a U-cup 310, a top plate 311, and a permanent magnet 308. In addition to providing a surface on which the magnet 308 can be mounted, the U-cup 310 also directs the magnetic field emitted by the magnet 308 toward the air gap where the coil is positioned. Behind the U-cup 310 is a foam layer 312, which can be formed from an open-cell foam. The foam layer 312 can enhance the audio performance of the audio driver assembly 202. In some embodiments, the foam layer 312 can increase the apparent size of the rear cavity of the audio driver assembly 202. Finally, a top cover 314 is secured to the driver housing 204 to close the opening in the back of the audio driver assembly 202. This rear opening in the driver housing 204 can be used to insert the above-mentioned audio components within the driver housing 204. Figure 3A It is also shown how the passages 206 leading to the exterior of the driver housing 204 may be distributed at regular radial intervals.

[0081] Figure 3B A cross-sectional view of the array speaker 100 according to the cross-sectional line BB of Figure 2 is shown. In this view, the top surface of the driver housing 204 is shown. Each driver housing has two driver screw terminals 316. The driver screw terminals 316 can be used to form a conductive path between the audio components within the driver housing 204 and other components of the array speaker 100.

[0082] Figure 4A perspective view of each of the audio driver assemblies 202 is shown. Specifically, the top cover 314 is shown closing the rear opening into the driver housing 204. Each of the audio driver assemblies 202 is also depicted as having an alignment bracket 402. The alignment bracket 402 can be configured to form a buffer between each audio driver assembly 202 and the lower housing component 208. The alignment bracket 402 can also be configured to help align the amplifier board 228 with the driver screw terminal 316. The amplifier board 228 is configured to support capacitors 404 and other electronic components such as electronic components 406. The capacitor 404 is configured to provide power to the audio driver assembly 202. Specifically, the power from the capacitor 404 can be used to support independent amplifier channels to power each audio driver assembly 202. The amplifier board 228 is also depicted as having terminals 408. Each of the terminals 408 can be configured to receive a fastener for coupling the amplifier board 228 to the driver screw terminal 316. In this way, the amplifier board 228 may be securely coupled to each audio driver assembly 202 .

[0083] Figure 5A A perspective view of the rear of the audio driver assembly 202 is shown. The top cover 314 is removed from the audio driver assembly 202 to expose the rear-facing surface of the U-cup 310. The U-cup 310 is coupled to the peripheral tab portion 508 of the phase plug 304. Wires 502 are also shown and are capable of electrically coupling the audio components of the audio driver assembly 202 to corresponding driver screw terminals 316. The amplifier board 228 is shown secured to the audio driver assembly 202 by fasteners 504, which are shown engaging the driver screw terminals 316. Figure 5A Also shown is a rear view of the U-cup 310 , which includes an engagement feature 506 that engages a tab 508 of the phase plug 304 .

[0084] Figure 5BA cross-sectional view of a fastener 504 engaging a driver screw terminal 316 is shown. Fastener 504 may be a conductive fastener and may be configured to carry a signal received from a terminal 408 disposed on amplifier board 228. In some embodiments, amplifier board 228 may also include a lower terminal 507 disposed on the lower surface of amplifier board 228. In some embodiments, lower terminal 507 may be compressed against driver screw terminal 316, thereby allowing transmission of signals or establishment of a ground path between lower terminal 507 and driver screw terminal 316 along conductive path 509. Those signals may then be transmitted to wire 502, which is soldered to the lower portion of driver screw terminal 316. The signal may include instructions for generating audio using audio components within driver housing 204. In some embodiments, one of wires 502 may be used to receive instructions, and the other wires may be configured to receive power. In some embodiments, one of wires 502 may serve as a ground path.

[0085] Figure 5C Another embodiment is shown in which a fastener 504 engages an opening defined by the driver housing 204. When the driver housing 204 is made of an electrically insulating material, electrical signals and power can be routed into the driver housing 204 through one or more wires 502. In some embodiments, a metal sheet 510 can be positioned between the driver housing 204 and the amplifier board 228. The metal sheet 510 can be bent to help define a conductive path 509 toward the outer surface of the driver housing 204. The metal sheet 510 can also define an opening or recess that is configured to accommodate the fastener 504. In some embodiments, the wires 502 can be soldered to the metal sheet 510.

[0086] Figure 6 An exploded view of the audio driver assembly 202 is shown. The adapter 302 can be inserted into the driver housing 204. The driver housing 204 can include internal features adapted to receive the adapter 302. The adapter 302 can define an opening that allows audio waves to pass through the adapter 302 and exit the driver housing 204. A rearward-facing surface of the adapter 302 can be configured to receive a protrusion of the phase plug 304. The phase plug 304 defines a plurality of openings that shape the audio waves so as to prevent destructive interference when the audio waves are directed toward an outlet of the driver housing 204. The phase plug 304 is also depicted as having a tab 508 that is configured to be engaged by an engagement feature 506 of the U-cup 310.

[0087] Figure 6Also shown is a coil assembly 306, which includes a diaphragm 602 and a coil 604. The coil 604 is electrically coupled to a power source so that the coil can receive an alternating current. The alternating current causes the coil 604 to output a biased magnetic field, which interacts with the magnetic field emitted by the permanent magnet 308 of the magnetic motor assembly. This interaction causes the coil assembly 306 to reciprocate between the phase plug 304 and the U-shaped cup 310. The direction of travel of the coil assembly 306 can be defined by the direction of the current surrounding the coil and the direction of the radially oriented magnetic flux generated by the permanent magnet 308 in the air gap between the top plate 606 and the U-shaped cup 310. The direction of the force is perpendicular to both the flow of the current in the coil 604 and the magnetic flux lines. The compliant surrounding portion of the diaphragm 602 allows movement in this direction. The plate 606 can be coupled to the permanent magnet 308 and is designed to help set the shape of the magnetic flux flow emitted by the permanent magnet 308. The force applied to the coil 604 causes the diaphragm 602 to move and generate audio waves that travel through the phase plug 304 and then exit the driver housing 204 .

[0088] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the audio driver assembly 202 is shown. Specifically, a rear cavity 702 of the audio driver assembly 202 is shown. Generally, a rear cavity refers to an open area within a speaker housing that contains air, which is in fluid communication with the rear surface of the diaphragm and is not in fluid communication with the listener. Similarly, a front cavity refers to another open area within a speaker housing that contains air, which is in fluid communication with both the front surface of the diaphragm and the listener. A larger rear cavity 702 increases the amount of air behind the diaphragm 602, thereby helping to increase the low frequency output for the audio driver assembly 202 at a given power output. The apparent size of the rear cavity 702 can be increased by a foam layer 312, which increases the apparent volume of the rear cavity 702 by slowing down the air within the rear cavity. The rear cavity 702 can also be increased by a portion of the rear cavity 704 toward the diaphragm. Additional open space can be added to the total volume of the rear cavity 702 by leaving a gap 706 between the phase plug 304 and the driver housing 204. In some embodiments, this additional volume toward the diaphragm 602 can significantly improve audio performance when the diaphragm 602 oscillates in the direction indicated by arrow 708. In some embodiments, the back cavity 702 and the forward back cavity 704 can add up to approximately 17 cc. Figure 7 Also shown are flux streamlines 710 and how both the U-cup 310 and the plate 606 cooperate to define a flux flow path for the magnetic field emitted by the permanent magnet 308. In this way, the magnetic field can be focused around the path along which the coil 604 traverses during operation of the audio driver assembly 202.

[0089] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the array speaker 100 including only components within a central portion of the array speaker 100 is shown. Figure 8Both a subwoofer 802 and a microphone 804 are shown. The subwoofer 802 includes a permanent annular magnet 806 for driving a coil 808 and a diaphragm 810 of the subwoofer 802. It should be noted that the diaphragm 810 may also be referred to as a cone. Although the term cone often refers to a rigid oscillating member associated with a subwoofer, for the purposes of this specification, the oscillating member of the subwoofer will be generally described as a diaphragm. The subwoofer 802 can be mounted to the lower housing member 208 by a damping coupling 812, which can minimize the amount of force and / or vibration transmitted from the subwoofer 802 to the lower housing member 208. The magnetic field emitted by the annular magnet 806 can be shaped by a pole structure 814 and a plate structure 816. The air gap between the pole structure 814 and the plate structure 816 can help position the magnetic field emitted by the annular magnet 806 around the coil 808.

[0090] The location of the subwoofer 802 in the upper portion of the housing allows the area below the subwoofer 802 to be used as a back cavity to enhance the audio produced by the subwoofer 802. Although not shown, this back cavity area includes the audio driver assembly 202. This works well because the audio waves generated by the audio driver assembly 202 are isolated by the housing 204 of the audio driver assembly 202, and the audio generated by the audio driver assembly 202 exits the bottom end of the device housing.

[0091] Figure 8 It also shows how microphone 804 can be used Figure 8 804. In some embodiments, each microphone 804 can be electrically coupled together using a flexible ribbon cable or a flexible PCB 818. In some embodiments, the microphone 804 can be configured to detect both internal audio sources and external audio sources. In some embodiments, the microphone 804 can be configured to monitor the interior of the array speaker 100 to find distortion or overdrive, thereby preventing the speaker from being damaged. In some embodiments, the microphone 804 can be configured to relay audible user commands to the processor of the array speaker 100. For example, the microphone 804 can be aligned with an opening in the side wall of the device housing and sealed across the opening, thereby allowing multiple microphones 804 to cooperate in triangulating the position of any audio detected by two or more microphones 804.

[0092] Fig. 9A 802 according to one embodiment may extend radially around the perimeter of the subwoofer 802. Because the magnet 806 extends radially from the subwoofer 802, the capacitor 404 is limited in diameter. Fig. 9BAs shown, more capacitors 404 than would be required for larger diameter capacitors may be required to power the audio driver assembly 202. Generally, using a larger number of capacitors 404 tends to be more expensive and takes up a greater amount of space on the amplifier board 228.

[0093] Fig. 9C A subwoofer 902 is shown that includes a magnet 904 instead of magnet 806 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Magnet 904 includes a plurality of protruding lobes 906 that can extend radially close to, or in some cases, extend in all directions to, the interior-facing surface of lower housing member 208. Although magnet 904 is shown as having three lobes 906, it should be understood that magnet 904 can have any number of lobes 906 as long as they are evenly spaced around magnet 904. For example, four narrower lobes can also be utilized. The even distribution of the lobes helps keep the magnetic field emitted by magnet 904 from becoming asymmetric. In addition to the lobes 906, it should be understood that the upper plate 908 directly above magnet 904 and the lower plate directly below magnet 904 can also be shaped to conform to the lobes 906 of magnet 904. Fig.9D It is shown how the petals 906 of the magnet 904 leave ample room for a larger diameter capacitor 912. This configuration would allow the audio driver assembly 202 (not shown) to be powered by a larger diameter capacitor 912. In some embodiments, this can allow more power to be delivered to the audio driver assembly 202, thereby allowing the driver assembly 202 to output higher quality and / or louder audio.

[0094] Fig. 10A A perspective view of a subwoofer 802 is shown. The subwoofer 802 includes a lip having a plurality of notches configured to receive fasteners. The lip is used to secure the subwoofer 802 to the housing of the array speaker 100. Unfortunately, the inertia of the moving mass of the subwoofer 802 forms a force on the Z axis and a moment around the X and Y axes, which may cause the array speaker 100 to have visible sway and bounce. This may cause the array speaker 100 to move sideways when playing music and be in danger of falling. The movement generated by the subwoofer 802 may also form vibrations throughout the system, which may cause audible humming noises and may cause premature failure or disconnection of components. The vertical movement of the array speaker on the Z axis may also make the touch interface positioned at the top of the array speaker 100 more difficult to use. For example, the vertical movement of the array speaker 100 may cause the user to touch the wrong part of the touch interface or make input earlier than originally expected.

[0095] Fig. 10AA solution to this problem is shown. A plurality of elastomeric grommets 1002 and shoulder screws 1004 may be used to secure the flange 1006 of the subwoofer 802 to a mounting feature within the array speaker 100. This may be accomplished by sliding each locking ring 1002 into a notch 1008 defined by the flange 1006. Once secured within the notch 1008, the shoulder screw 1004 may be inserted through the opening defined by the locking ring 1002. The shoulder of the shoulder screw 1004 may be positioned within the opening defined by the grommet 1002, and the threaded portion of the shoulder screw 1004 may be used to engage the mounting feature.

[0096] Fig. 10B A perspective view of a grommet 1002 is shown, which may be made of a high damping rubber and have a specific geometry to achieve optimal stiffness characteristics to dampen oscillations generated by the subwoofer 802. The grommet 1002 may define a U-shaped channel 1010 that is configured to allow the grommet 1002 to slide into one of the notches 1008. When the flange 1006 is engaged within the U-shaped channel 1010, the shape of the U-shaped channel 1010 acts as an anti-rotation feature that prevents the grommet 1002 from rotating within the notch 1008. This may help when driving the shoulder screw 1004 into the attachment feature. The grommet 1002 also includes a protrusion 1012 that protrudes from an upper flange 1014. The protrusion 1012 also protrudes from a lower flange 1016. The protrusion 1012 may also be configured to be more easily depressed when the shoulder screw 1004 engages the grommet 1002 through the opening 1018. The height and / or width of the protrusion 1012 may be adjusted to tune the overall stiffness provided by the grommet 1002 .

[0097] Fig.11AAn exploded view of a convex user interface 1100 is shown. The aesthetic layer 1102 may be formed of glass or plastic and configured to provide a smooth surface on which a user can comfortably make inputs. The pattern depicted on the aesthetic layer 1102 includes symbols corresponding to increase and decrease settings. In some embodiments, plus and minus signs may be used to increase the volume or skip tracks in a song. For example, a long press plus may be configured to increase the volume, while a short press may skip to the next track in a media playlist. The aesthetic layer 1102 may be coupled to an adhesive layer 1104. The adhesive layer 1104 may bond the aesthetic layer to a wedge 1106 and bond the wedge 1106 to a touch / LED board 1108. The adhesive layer 1104 may define a plurality of openings configured to reduce any attenuation in a touch signal caused by the adhesive layer 1104. The wedge 1106 may define the convex geometry of the user interface 1100. The dielectric constant of the wedge 1106 can be adjusted to efficiently transfer touch input from the aesthetic layer 1102 to the touch / LED board 1108. It should be noted that some of the openings defined by the adhesive layer 1104 and the wedge 1106 can be designed to accommodate fasteners 1110 that secure the touch / LED board 1108 to the mounting frame 1112. The light guide 1114 can be configured to guide light emitted by a light source coupled to the touch / LED board 1108 to the aesthetic layer 1102 of the user interface 1100. In some embodiments, the openings defined by the different openings can be configured to allow light from an LED disposed on the touch / LED board 1108 to illuminate portions of the aesthetic layer 1102.

[0098] Fig. 11B A cross-sectional view of the assembled male user interface 1100 is shown. LEDs 1116 are depicted on the upper and lower surfaces of the touch / LED board 1108. In this manner, the upper LEDs 1116 can shine light directly into the aesthetic layer 1102. The lower LEDs 1116 shine light into the recess defined by the mounting frame 1112. The light emitted by the lower LEDs 1116 can then be redirected by the light guide 1114 to other openings located below the plus and minus indicators of the aesthetic layer 1102.

[0099] Fig. 11CA cross-sectional view of the array speaker 100 is shown, wherein the convex user interface 1100 is disposed at the top. An audio wave 1118 is shown to be generated by the oscillation of the subwoofer 802 in the vertical direction. In some embodiments, the oscillation may be aligned with the longitudinal axis of the lower housing component 208. In this case, the term "aligned" is used to indicate that the direction of motion is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lower housing component 208. The audio wave 1118 is configured to leave the array speaker 100 through the vent 1120. The main logic board 1122 is shown to be fixed to the bottom surface of the convex user interface 1100. The main logic board 1122 may include one or more heat generating components, such as a processor. The audio wave 1118 incident on the main logic board 1122 may dissipate the heat generated by the heat generating components of the main logic board 1122. In some embodiments, the heat generated by the touch / LED board 1108 may be conducted to the main logic board 1122, where the air displaced by the audio wave 1118 dissipates the heat in a convective manner. In some embodiments, when heat dissipation is a priority, the subwoofer 802 can be configured to operate at an infrasonic frequency designed to maximize the amount of air pushed through the main logic board 1122. In some embodiments, the array speaker 100 can include various sensors within the upper portion of the subwoofer 802 that identify high heat load conditions, which can cause heat dissipation to become a priority. For example, a thermal sensor can be attached to the surface of the main logic board 1122. In addition, various flow sensors can be positioned between the subwoofer 802 and the vent 1120 to identify any vent blockage. The subwoofer 802 can also be configured to oscillate at a frequency that generates tactile feedback along the outer surface of the convex user interface 100. For example, the subwoofer 802 can be commanded to operate at a frequency that generates tactile feedback in response to one or more different types of user inputs.

[0100] Fig. 11C Also shown is a seal 1124 that is configured to seal the rear cavity of the subwoofer 802. The seal 1124 can be used to prevent the upper housing member 1126 from humming toward the lower housing member 208. Fig. 11C Also shown is a vibration ring 1125 that is twisted along threads 1128. The vibration ring 1125 is formed of a polymer material that is twisted downward until it engages the channel defined by the alignment brackets 402 of the driver housing 204 of each driver to prevent vibration of the audio driver assembly 202. In some embodiments, the vibration ring 1125 can include at least three rows of threads around the perimeter of the vibration ring 1125.

[0101] Fig. 12AA perspective view of seal 1124 is shown. Seal 1124 is arranged in an annular shape and is capable of forming a seal around an audio component secured to lower housing component 208. Seal 1124 is configured to seal across a parting line and absorb tolerances of injection molded plastic components. Seal 1124 may be constructed from multiple layers. Fig. 12B A cross-sectional view of seal 1124 according to cross-sectional line CC is shown. The cross-sectional view shows how two compliant foam layers 1202 may be joined together by a rigid plastic layer 1204. Rigid plastic layer 1204 may make installation more secure by helping to maintain the shape of seal 1124. This design may provide better performance at a lower cost than a typical O-ring. Fig. 12C A close up view of the seal 1124 disposed between the upper housing member 1126 and the support halo 1206 is shown.

[0102] Figure 13A-13B 1304. The upper housing component 1126 is shown as being attached to the lower housing component 208. The upper and lower housing components 1126 and 208 each include a plurality of discrete thread segments. The thread segments are arranged on an exterior-facing surface of the upper housing component 1126 and an interior-facing surface of the lower housing component 208. To attach the upper and lower housing components 1126 and 208 together, the thread segments 1302 of the upper housing component 1126 may be aligned with the thread segments 1304 of the lower housing component 208. The upper housing component 1126 may then be lowered until the thread segments 1302 and 1304 contact each other. The upper housing component 1126 may then be twisted to shift the thread segments 1302 to the right until the thread segments 1302 pass over the thread segments 1304 and then contact the thread segments 1306. Once thread segment 1302 contacts thread segment 1306, upper housing component 1126 can be twisted in the opposite direction to move thread segment 1302 to the left until thread segment 1302 passes thread segment 1306 and contacts thread segment 1308. Upper housing component 1126 can continue to move in alternating directions until thread segment 1310 is secured against locking surface 1312 of thread segment 1314. Thread segment 1310 can have a locking feature 1316 configured to engage locking surface 1312. Locking feature 1316 can flex as the area surrounding locking feature 1316 is removed from upper housing component 1126. Fig. 13B The upper housing component 1126 is shown locked against the lower housing component 208 through interaction between the locking surface 1312 and the locking surface 1316 .

[0103] Figures 14A-14D A cantilevered foot 230 is shown. Fig.14AA cantilevered foot 230 is shown just below the array speaker 100. The cantilevered foot 230 is configured to support the weight of the array speaker 100 above a supporting surface and to dissipate any vibrations that propagate through the array speaker 100. Fig. 14B A perspective view of a cantilevered foot 230 is shown. An inner layer 1402 of the cantilevered foot 230 may be formed of a somewhat rigid but flexible material such as polycarbonate. An outer layer 1404 formed of a more compliant material such as silicone may be configured to dissipate vibrations transmitted to the cantilevered foot 230. Unfortunately, sometimes the vibrations may be severe enough to cause a more standardized vibration dissipating foot to bounce or deflect sideways.

[0104] Fig. 14C A top view of the cantilevered foot 230 is shown, particularly a cross-sectional line DD bisecting the cantilevered foot 230 . Fig.14D An inner layer 1402 and an outer layer 1404 are shown. When a force 1406 acts on the cantilevered foot 230, rather than the thickness of the outer layer 1404 being solely responsible for dissipating any vibrations propagating to the cantilevered foot 230, the cantilevered arm 1408 flexes radially to absorb some of the force 1406 associated with the vibration as shown. This radial flexing causes the vertical vibration to shift horizontally and significantly reduces the vertical vibration. Another positive effect of the radial flexing is that it causes more of the outer layer 1404 to contact the supporting surface, thereby increasing the friction between the cantilevered foot 230 and the supporting surface, thereby increasing the resistance of the array loudspeaker to lateral displacement. In some embodiments, the cantilevered foot 230 and the grommet 1002 work together to attenuate the undesirable vibrations of the array loudspeaker 100. In some embodiments, an annular foam 1410 may be added along the perimeter of the cantilevered foot 230, which may be configured to prevent undesirable vibrations around the cantilevered foot 230. In this way, the foam 1410 can be positioned to prevent vibrations that would otherwise generate distracting vibrations when the speaker device generates audio waves that may resonate within the cantilevered foot 230.

[0105] Fig.15 An exploded view of an alternative convex user interface 1500 is shown, which in some aspects may be Figures 11A-11C1500. The user interface shown in FIG. 1501 is different from that shown in FIG. 1502. Specifically, the convex user interface 1500 includes two different illuminated touch interface areas. The user interface 1500 includes a mounting frame 1502, which defines a channel 1503 extending along the circumference of the mounting frame 1502. The channel 1503 can be configured to receive a drawstring associated with the acoustic fabric covering the array speaker 100. The channel 1503 allows each end of the drawstring to be conveniently wrapped around the mounting frame 1502 along the channel 1503. The mounting frame 1502 also defines a plurality of recesses 1504, which are configured to receive and accommodate light-emitting components. Specifically, the light-emitting component includes an LED array board 1506 and a light source 1508. The LED array board 1506 includes an array of LEDs 1510. Each LED in the LED 1510 can be configured to emit three or more colors of light. The LED 1510 can also be configured to cooperate to generate various designs associated with the first touch interface area. The light source 1508 can each include one or more LEDs for emitting one or more colors of light associated with the second touch interface area. The interposer board 1512 can be configured to set the spacing distance between the LED array board 1506 and the touch printed circuit board (PCB) 1514. The interposer board 1512 can define an opening that allows light generated by the LED 1510 to pass through the interposer board 1512. The interposer board 1512 can take the form of an electrically insulating layer having a conductive edge plating arranged along its periphery for transmitting power and signals between the touch PCB 1514 and the LED array board 1506. In this way, the light emitted by the LED 1510 can be modulated according to the touch input processed by the components associated with the touch PCB 1514. The touch PCB 1514 defines a plurality of holes through which the light generated by the light emitting component is generated. In particular, the volume control opening 1516 can have a shape of positive and negative symbols associated with increasing and decreasing the volume of the speaker system associated with the user interface 1500, respectively.

[0106] Fig.15Also shown is a fastener 1518, which can be configured to fix the touch PCB 1514 to the mounting frame 1502. In some embodiments, the fastener 1518 can be a self-tapping screw that forms a thread in an opening defined by the mounting frame 1502. The touch PCB 1514 can be coupled to the wedge 1520 through an adhesive layer 1522. Both the adhesive layer 1522 and the wedge 1520 can include an opening through which light emitted by the light-emitting component can pass. The adhesive layer 1522 and the wedge 1520 can also include an opening to accommodate the head of the fastener 1518. The central region of the wedge 1520 is significantly thicker than its peripheral region, and the wedge can be configured to give the user interface 1500 its curved or convex external geometry. The central region of the wedge 1520 includes an opening for accommodating a diffuser component 1523 configured to diffuse the light received from the LED 1510. The diffuser assembly 1523 includes a lens array 1524 having a discrete diffuse optical element for each of the LEDs 1510. In some embodiments, the lens array 1524 can take the form of a single piece of glass that diffuses the light from each LED 1510. In other embodiments, the lens array 1524 can include a plurality of discrete lenses that diffuse the light. The lens array 1524 can be secured to the touch PCB 1514 by an adhesive foam ring 1526. In some embodiments, a touch pad 1528 can be secured to the downward surface of the lens array 1524. The opening defined by the touch pad 1528 can accommodate the lens protrusions of the lens array 1524. The touch pad 1528 can take the form of a thin conductive plate that improves the capacitive coupling of the touch input received by the user interface 1500. The touch pad can be electrically coupled to the touch PCB 1514. In some embodiments, the flat surface of the touch pad 1514 can include a touch sensor that is optimized for reading inputs made at the aesthetically pleasing convex touch surface of the user interface 1500. For example, the density of the sensing grid associated with the touch pad 1514 can have a varying density, which allows the input made to be adjusted for the curvature at the outer surface. In this way, consistent user input can be achieved across the entire outer touch surface of the user interface 1500, thereby avoiding the situation where the touch input is read at different speeds in the center and along the periphery of the touch sensor. The upward surface of the lens array 1524 can be fixed to the first diffuser plate 1530 by an adhesive strip 1532 arranged along the periphery of the lens array 1524. A layer of diffuser film 1534 for additional light diffusion can be positioned between the first diffuser plate 1530 and the lens array 1524. The first diffuser plate 1530 can also be configured to increase the amount of diffusion of the light emitted by the LED 1510.

[0107] In some embodiments, the first diffuser plate 1530 can be formed of a transparent polycarbonate resin doped with particles having a different refractive index than the transparent polycarbonate resin. For example, the polycarbonate resin can be doped with titanium oxide particles, which both give the first diffuser plate 1530 a white appearance and help further diffuse the light passing through the first diffuser plate 1530. The first diffuser plate 1530 is fixed to the second diffuser plate 1536 by an adhesive strip 1532 arranged along the periphery of the first diffuser plate 1530. The size of the adhesive strip 1532 can be set to form a small air gap between the first diffuser plate and the second diffuser plate. The second diffuser plate 1536 can have a dome-shaped surface, thereby helping the diffuser assembly 1523 to achieve the same curvature as the wedge 1520. Finally, a fade film 1538 can be applied to the upward surface of the second diffuser plate 1536. The fade film can take the form of a radial gradient filter that feathers the intensity of the light along the periphery of the light emitted by the LED 1510. In this way, the fade film 1538 prevents the adhesive layer 1540 from suddenly transitioning from being illuminated to not being illuminated in the central area of ​​the top cover 1542. The top cover 1542 can take the form of a layer of glass or a transparent polymer material, such as a polycarbonate material. In some embodiments, the top cover 1542 can include a layer of ink that further diffuses the light passing through the top cover 1542. In some embodiments, the light emitted by the LED 1510 and diffused by the aforementioned diffusing element can cooperate to generate a mixed light having a diameter of approximately three centimeters.

[0108] Fig.16A The downward facing surface of the lens array 1524 is shown. As shown, the lens array 1524 takes the form of a single piece of specially shaped glass having discrete optical elements for a plurality of different light sources. Specifically, the lens array 1524 includes protruding lenses 1602 for diffusing light from 19 LEDs 1510 arranged in a honeycomb pattern. It should be understood that the lens array 1524 can accommodate a greater or lesser number of LEDs 1510. In addition, the protruding lenses 1602 can be arranged in an irregular pattern or a different regular pattern, such as a rectangular grid.

[0109] Fig. 16BA cross-sectional side view of a portion of a convex user interface 1500 including a lens array 1524 is shown according to cross-sectional line EE. It should be noted that the adhesive layer has been omitted from this figure for clarity. Specifically, LEDs 1510 are shown attached to LED array board 1506. Five LEDs 1510 are shown emitting light into lens array 1524. The protruding lenses 1602 of lens array 1524 diffuse the light received from LEDs 1510, after which the light enters first and second diffuser plates 1530 and 1536. As shown, each protruding lens 1602 includes a concave surface oriented toward a corresponding one of the LEDs 1510. The diffuser plate can be configured to further diffuse the light before the light leaves through top cover 1542. Before the light leaves through top cover 1542, the light emitted from each LED 1510 can be mixed with the light from an adjacent one of the LEDs 1510. In this way, a smaller number of LEDs can cooperate to produce a mixed pattern of light at the outer surface defined by the top cover 1542. In some embodiments, the light emerging along the surface can have an overall diameter of approximately 30 mm, and the light from each LED 1510 can be spread across a diameter of approximately 7 mm.

[0110] Fig.17A Shown is an exploded cross-sectional view of an expandable opening defined by one end of fabric 1700. Fabric 1700 may take the form of a tube having a fixed-size opening at a first end, and a second end that is elastic and / or expandable. Fig.17A A second expandable end is shown. Fabric layers 1702, 1704, and 1706 can be configured to provide an aesthetically pleasing outer surface for the speaker device without blocking the passage of audio waves generated by the speaker device. Fabric layers 1702, 1704, and 1706 can be formed of materials such as polyester, nylon, and polyurethane. In some embodiments, fabric layer 1702 can have a diamond pattern that defines an array of diamond openings that limits the amount of resistance generated by fabric layer 1702. Fabric layer 1702 can be adhered to fabric layer 1704 via adhesive layer 1708. Although adhesive layer 1708 is shown as a solid layer, it should be understood that the adhesive can be formed to have the same pattern as fabric layer 1702. In this way, the outer surface of fabric 1700 can be free of exposed adhesive material. The inner edge of fabric layer 1704 can be coupled to fabric layer 1706 via adhesive ring 1710. Fabric layer 1706 can then be secured to upper housing member 1126 (not shown, see Fig. 13B ). In this way, the fabric 1700 can be securely coupled to the speaker device.

[0111] Fig.17AAlso shown are stitching threads 1712. In some embodiments, stitching threads 1712 may be stitched to the edge of fabric layer 1702. Stitching threads 1712 may take the form of fibers arranged in a plurality of loops arranged along the edge of fabric 1700 and sized to accommodate draw tape 1714. Draw tape 1714 may be passed through an opening defined by the loops of stitching threads 1712. By pulling up or releasing the ends of draw tape 1714 at the edge of fabric 1700, the opening may be expanded or contracted to accordingly install and remove fabric 1700 from the speaker device.

[0112] Fig. 17B A cross-sectional view of the fabric assembly 1700 is shown fully adhered together, and how both ends of a draw strap 1714 may protrude from the same radial position of the fabric assembly 1700. The draw strap 1714 may be long enough to wrap around a mounting frame associated with a user interface of a speaker device, which allows the draw strap to smoothly contract an opening 1716 defined by the fabric 1700. In some embodiments, the sewn fabric 1712 and the draw strap 1714 may be replaced by an elastic ring insert molded near the edge of the fabric 1700. The elastic ring may work similarly to a rubber band and have a restoring force to hold the fabric securely in place while also allowing the opening 1716 defined by the fabric to be expanded to remove the fabric assembly 1700 from the speaker device.

[0113] Fig. 17C A top view of fabric assembly 1700 mounted around a portion of upper housing component 1126 is shown. Fig. 17C Draw strap 1714 is shown only partially tightened, leaving an annular gap between the opening defined by fabric assembly 1700 and the opening defined by upper housing component 1126 . Fig.17D It shows how a draw tape 1714 may be routed through an opening 1708 defined by the mounting frame 1502 and then tightened so that the fabric assembly 1700 is evenly cinched around the perimeter of the mounting frame 1502 .

[0114] Fig.18An exploded view of a halo assembly 1800 is shown. The halo assembly includes an upper ring 1802 and a lower ring 1804, which are coupled together by fasteners 1806. The upper ring 1802 and the lower ring 1804 each cooperate to define threads around their perimeters. The threads allow the rings to rotate into place within the inner cavity of the speaker housing. The bottom surface of the upper ring 1802 and the top surface of the lower ring 1804 have complementary geometries that allow the two rings to be radially aligned. In addition, when the rings are radially aligned, the peripheral threads continue smoothly through the interface between the two rings. For example, the lower ring includes a ramp feature 1808 that aligns with a recessed feature 1810 when the two rings are radially aligned. The radial alignment of the rings 1802 and 1804 also aligns the fastener opening 1812 with the fastener opening 1814. The upper ring 1802 can include additional openings adjacent to each of the openings 1812 that are configured to receive additional fasteners for securing other internal components to the halo assembly 1800. The interior-facing surface of the upper ring 1802 can include protrusions to help thicken the portion of the upper ring 1802 that includes the openings configured to receive the fasteners. The halo assembly 1800 also includes a seal 1124 that can be positioned within the groove 1816 and used to prevent audio waves from propagating around the perimeter of the halo assembly 1800.

[0115] Fig.18 A flexible connector 1820 is also shown. The flexible connector assembly 1820 can be configured to electrically couple components distributed throughout the speaker housing. Specifically, the flexible connector assembly can extend through the opening 1818 in the upper ring 1802 to reach an electrical component connector disposed above the halo assembly 1800. In some embodiments, the ring 1804 can also include an opening aligned with the opening 1818 to allow a flexible connector substrate 1822 to pass through. The flexible connector substrate 1822 can take the form of a polyimide substrate. In some embodiments, the flexible connector assembly 1820 includes a board-to-board connector 1824 that is configured to electrically couple to an electrical component such as a touch PCB 1514 (see Fig.15 ). The flex connector assembly 1820 may include other connectors, such as a connector 1826 configured to electrically couple to a speaker driver at a lower end of an associated speaker device.

[0116] Fig.19A partial cross-sectional view of a speaker device in which the halo assembly 1800 is installed is shown. The upper ring 1802 is shown in direct contact with the lower ring 1804. The fastener 1806 is shown securing the upper ring 1802 and the lower ring 1804 together after the two rings are rotated along the threads 1902 of the housing member 208. Before the fastener 1806 secures the upper and lower rings 1802 and 1804 together, the threads 1904 and 1906 can fit somewhat loosely between the threads 1902. In this way, the halo assembly is configured to be easily screwed into the housing member 208. Once the correct position is reached, the fastener 1806 causes the threads 1904 and 1906 to rest against the threads 1902, thus securing the halo assembly in place and preventing the halo assembly 1800 from vibrating relative to the housing member 208. Fig.19 Also shown is how fasteners 1004 associated with flange 1006 secure flange 1006 of subwoofer 802 to upper ring 1802 of halo assembly 1800 .

[0117] Fig. 20 It is shown how the upper housing member 1126 may be secured to the halo assembly 1800 by fasteners 2002. The upper housing member 1126 may include fastener openings that allow the fasteners 2002 to extend vertically through the upper housing member 1126 and engage the upper ring 1802 of the halo assembly 1800. An aesthetic plug 2004 may be inserted into a recess surrounding the opening configured to receive the fastener 2002. The aesthetic plug 2004 prevents the fabric cover from protruding into the recess and adversely affecting the exterior appearance of the speaker device. Fig. 20 Also shown is how a seal 1124 may be positioned between the upper ring 1802 and the lower housing member 208 to prevent audio waves from propagating around the perimeter of the upper ring 1802. The speaker may also include a seal 2006 positioned between the upper ring 1802 and the flange 1006 to help prevent audio waves from propagating through the central opening of the upper ring 1802. Fig. 20 The relative positions of the stepped threads 1302 of the upper housing component 1126 and the stepped threads 1304 of the lower housing component 208 are also shown.

[0118] Fig.21A perspective view of an alternative upper housing component is shown. Upper housing component 2100 includes diamond shaped vents 2102. Diamond shaped vents 2102 can have a pattern similar to the acoustic fabric covering upper housing component 2100. Having a similar pattern can result in alignment of pattern outlines, even when diamond shaped vents 2102 are significantly larger than the pattern of the acoustic fabric. This alignment can make the vent openings beneath the acoustic fabric significantly less likely to be visible to a user of a speaker device associated with upper housing component 2100. In some embodiments, the pattern of the acoustic fabric can be aligned with the vents 2102. For example, the acoustic fabric can be aligned such that a pattern of 4 or 16 diamond shaped patterns are aligned within each of the vents 2102. In this way, the edges of the pattern can be aligned, further reducing the likelihood that the vents 2102 will be visible to a user. Upper housing component 2100 can also include a protruding support member 2104 that is configured to extend along the acoustic fabric. Fig.15 The lines of the convex user interface 1500 shown in FIG. 1 support the convex user interface.

[0119] Fig. 22 A diagram of different types of connected electronic devices that can communicate and / or interact with the array speaker 100 is shown. In some embodiments, the array speaker 100 can act as a central hub to facilitate home automation. The array speaker onboard memory 100 or a memory accessible via a network can be accessed by the array speaker 100, which can be used to store rules governing the interaction of various types of devices shown. The array speaker can then send instructions to different devices according to the stored rules. The microphone provided in the array speaker 100 can be configured to receive voice commands to perform specific actions related to the electronic devices connected to the user's home. In some embodiments, the convex user interface can receive commands for adjusting various settings on a specific connected electronic device. For example, the array speaker 100 can be configured to receive commands to adjust the smart lock device 2202. In some embodiments, the array speaker 100 may include instructions that allow it to lock and unlock the smart lock device 2202 in response to a voice command. In addition, the array speaker 100 can be configured to prompt the occupants in the room that the smart lock device 2202 has been unlocked. In some embodiments, the array speaker 100 can announce the identity of the user who unlocked the smart lock device 2202. In such a case, the smart lock device 2202 can be configured to open in response to receiving a command from an electronic device such as a mobile phone. The array speaker 100 can then identify the user when the user is associated with the mobile phone. In some embodiments, the array speaker 100 can be configured to interact with other devices in response to actuating the smart lock device 2202. For example, the array speaker can indicate the illumination of one or more lights 2204 and adjust the temperature of the HVAC system associated with the smart thermometer 2206 in response to the unlock event.

[0120] Fig. 22 Also shown is communication between the array speaker 100 and the smart garage door opener 2208. In response to detecting an opening event of the smart garage door opener 2208, the array speaker can be configured to perform similar actions described above with respect to the operation of the smart lock device 2202. In some embodiments, different lights in the lights 2204 can be illuminated in anticipation of a user entering the room from different directions.

[0121] The array speaker 100 may also be configured to operate different smart devices according to various calendar events associated with an electronic calendar. For example, the array speaker may be configured to disable the surveillance camera 2210 during an event in the same room as the surveillance camera 2210 when the event is marked as private. The array speaker may also be configured to notify one or more users whether the window sensor 2212 indicates that the window remains open after a specific time during the day or night. In some embodiments, the array speaker 100 may act as a media hub that cooperates with other components such as a television / monitor 2214 to present video and audio content in response to various user inputs and / or smart device activities. For example, the television / monitor 2214 may present a status screen and / or a progress monitor, indicating the status and / or activities being performed by other components, which may or may not have the ability to present a graphical interface to the user of the array speaker 100. In some embodiments, the array speaker may be configured to remotely instruct the refrigerator 2216 to send an image of the interior area of ​​the refrigerator 2216 to the user shortly before the user has a scheduled grocery shopping trip plan. Although these various operations may be stored in the internal memory of the array speaker 100, the array speaker 100 may also communicate with a cloud service provider to help coordinate various activities with users, who may or may not be connected to the local area network with the array speaker 100. For example, a user remotely connects to the array speaker 100 using a device such as a smart phone to initiate a specific task for the smart components with which the array speaker 100 communicates.

[0122] In some embodiments, the array speaker can be configured to interact with a wearable display 2218. The wearable display 2218 can take the form of augmented reality or virtual reality goggles that present digital content to the user. When the wearable display 2218 is an augmented reality display, the wearable display 2218 can overlay various control interfaces around the array speaker 100. For example, virtual content can overlay a convex user interface on top of the array speaker 100 to make the user interface larger. In some embodiments, the enlarged user interface can include an extended display and an enlarged control manipulation area, allowing the user to control the array speaker 100 more efficiently and / or with a greater degree of choice. For example, the user interface can be configured to display a virtual graphic equalizer, allowing the user to increase or decrease the treble and / or bass output associated with the audio generated by the array speaker 100. In some embodiments, an overlay can be presented to the user, which visualizes the various areas of the room covered by each of the multiple speaker drivers included in the array speaker 100. The user may then be able to adjust the audio output associated with one or more speaker drivers specific to a particular area. For example, the user can only identify the illustrated area containing individuals who listen to the audio output from the array speaker 100. In addition, the user can reduce the audio output for the first user located in the first area of ​​the array speaker associated with the first audio driver, and increase the audio output for the second user located in the second area of ​​the array speaker associated with the second audio driver. In this way, the listener can enjoy the audio at the desired volume, and the virtual interface allows the user to quickly identify the area where each listener is located. In some embodiments, the array speaker 100 may include various markings that help the circuits and sensors associated with the wearable display 2218 to orient the virtual content relative to the array speaker 100. For example, since the array speaker 100 is cylindrical, it may be difficult to determine the radial position of each of the speaker drivers within the array speaker 100. Small markings, such as decorative symbols, can be embedded in the acoustic fabric used to cover the array speaker 100. In this way, each listening zone can be more accurately associated with the array speaker 100. In some embodiments, the array speaker 100 may include an optical sensor configured to identify the position of each listener in the room and then change the audio output to improve the audio experience of the identified listener.

[0123] In some embodiments, the wearable display device can be configured to receive optical commands from the array speaker 100. For example, a display associated with a user interface can be configured to output a specific pattern of light. The optical sensor of the wearable display device 2218 can recognize the pattern of light and change the display in some way in response. For example, the type, size, and orientation of the virtual controls displayed by the wearable display 2218 can be changed according to the output of the display associated with the user interface.

[0124] Fig.23 A block diagram is shown showing the communication and interoperation between the various electrical components of the array speaker 100. The processor 2302 can communicate with the electrical components shown. The user interface 2304 can receive user input, which is then received by the processor 2302. In response to the user input, the processor 2302 can interpret the signal corresponding to the received user input and relay it to other electrical components. For example, the user interface can receive a user input indicating to increase the output of both the subwoofer 2306 and the audio driver assembly 2308. In some embodiments, the electrical components can all be linked together by conductive paths established by components such as a flexible connector 1820, which can route electrical signals to various electrical components distributed throughout the device housing of the array speaker 100. The array speaker 100 can also include a display system 2312. The display system 2312 can be configured to provide visual feedback to a user of the array speaker 100. For example, visual feedback can be provided in response to interaction with a voice assistant, such as a voice assistant produced by Apple Inc. (Cupertino, CA). Voice assistant. In some embodiments, an array of colored mosaic patterns may be presented while processing a voice request and / or while the voice assistant is waiting for a voice request. The array speaker may also include a computer-readable medium 2314. The computer-readable medium 2314 may be configured to store or at least cache a certain amount of media files for playback by the subwoofer 2306 and the audio driver assembly 2308. In some embodiments, the media files stored on the computer-readable medium 2314 may include, for example, movies, television programs, photos, audio recordings, and music videos. In some embodiments, the video portion of the media file may be transmitted to another device for display by the wireless communication system 2316. Even when the display system 2312 is displaying the video portion, it may be desirable to do so because another device may have a display that is larger or easier to view for a particular user. For example, other display devices may be selected based on the user's location in the room.

[0125] Fig.23Also shown is a RAM / ROM component 2318. The RAM / ROM component 2318 may include RAM (random access memory) for short-term caching of commonly used information and / or information prompted just prior to playback. ROM (read only memory) may be used to store computer code, such as device drivers and lower-level code used in the basic operation of the array speaker 100. In some embodiments, the RAM / ROM component 2318 may take the form of two separate components.

[0126] Fig.23 Also shown is how the array speaker 100 may also include a sensor array 2320 that includes microphones, proximity sensors, touch sensors, accelerometers, and the like. The microphones of the sensor array 2320 may be configured to monitor voice commands. In some embodiments, the microphones may be configured to process voice commands only after recognizing a command phrase that indicates the user's intent to issue a voice command. The microphones may be radially distributed along the outside of the device housing so that the housing does not mask or obscure voice commands. Multiple microphones may also be used to triangulate the user's position in the room. In some cases, it may be desirable to optimize audio output or prompt additional smart devices based on the determined user position (see Fig. 22 ).

[0127] In addition to using spatially dispersed microphones to identify the location of a user through triangulation, proximity sensors can also be distributed along the outer surface of the array speaker 100 to help identify the presence of a user and / or obstacles surrounding the array speaker 100. In some embodiments, the proximity sensor can be configured to emit infrared light pulses that help characterize objects around the array speaker 100. The pulses reflected back to the sensor can be processed by the processor 2302, which can then characterize any objects surrounding the array speaker 100. In some embodiments, the audio output of the array speaker 100 can be adjusted in the event that surrounding objects significantly change the expected audio output of the array speaker 100. For example, if the array speaker 100 is positioned against a wall or pillar, the infrared sensor can identify the obstacle and attenuate or stop the output of the speaker driver directed toward the wall or pillar. The reflected pulses and audio triangulation data can be combined to further refine the location of the user delivering instructions to the array speaker 100. The sensor array 2320 can also include a touch sensor that allows a user to enter commands along the outer surface of the array speaker 100. For example, Fig.15 The touch PCB 1514 of the convex user interface shown in FIG. 1 is configured to detect user gestures made along the top cover 1542 and interpret the gestures as various instructions to be executed by one or more components of the array speaker 100 .

[0128] The sensor array 2320 may also include one or more accelerometers. The accelerometer may be configured to measure any tilt of the array speaker 100 relative to the gravity reference system. Since the array speaker 100 is optimized to evenly distribute audio content in the room when positioned on a flat surface, placing the array speaker 100 on an upward or downward tilted surface may adversely affect the acoustic output of the array speaker 100. In response to the accelerometer determining that the array speaker 100 is tilted at an angle greater than 2 degrees, the array speaker may be configured to prompt the user to find a flatter surface to place the array speaker. Alternatively, the array speaker may be configured to change the sound output to compensate for the angle of tilt. In some embodiments, the accelerometer may also be configured to monitor any resonant vibrations within the array speaker 100. The processor 2302 may then be configured to adjust the audio output to help the subwoofer 2306 and / or the audio driver assembly 2308 avoid or reduce the generation of frequencies that cause the array speaker 100 to vibrate at one or more resonant frequencies.

[0129] The various aspects, embodiments, specific implementations or features of the embodiments may be used individually or in any combination. The various aspects of the embodiments may be implemented by software, hardware, or a combination of hardware and software. The embodiments may also be embodied as computer-readable code on a computer-readable medium, which is used to control the operation of the array speaker. In some embodiments, the computer-readable medium may include code for interacting with other connected devices in the user's home. For example, the array speaker may be configured to use its ambient light sensor to identify human activity and learn when to activate and deactivate specific devices in the user's home. Computer-readable media is any data storage device that can store data, which can then be read by a computer system. Examples of computer-readable media include read-only memory, random access memory, CD-ROM, HDD, DVD, magnetic tape, and optical data storage devices. Computer-readable media may also be distributed in network-coupled computer systems so that computer-readable codes are stored and executed in a distributed manner.

[0130] In the above description, for the purpose of explanation, the specific nomenclature used provides a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these specific details are not required to practice the embodiments. Therefore, the above description of specific embodiments is presented for the purpose of illustration and description. These descriptions are not intended to be considered exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the disclosed precise forms. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible based on the above teachings.

Claims

1. A loudspeaker, comprising: a device housing having opposing top and bottom surfaces and a vertical axis extending between the top and bottom surfaces; A user interface assembly including a capacitive touch sensor disposed at a top surface of the device housing for receiving touch input; a printed circuit board PCB disposed between the user interface assembly and the bottom surface and secured to an interior-facing surface of the user interface assembly; and A subwoofer is disposed between the user interface assembly and the bottom surface and is configured to push air toward the PCB during operation of the speaker, wherein a vertical axis extends through the user interface assembly, the PCB, and the subwoofer.

2. The loudspeaker according to claim 1, wherein The user interface component includes a convex touch-sensitive user interface.

3. The loudspeaker according to claim 2, wherein: The touch sensor of the convex touch-sensitive user interface has a substantially flat touch surface.

4. The loudspeaker according to claim 3, wherein: The user interface assembly includes an external aesthetic surface separated from a user interface PCB by a wedge-shaped substrate having a dielectric constant suitable for transmitting user input received at the external aesthetic surface to a touch sensor.

5. A speaker, comprising: a device housing having opposing top and bottom surfaces and a vertical axis extending between the top and bottom surfaces; a user interface assembly including a capacitive touch sensor disposed at a top end of a device housing for receiving touch input, wherein the device housing defines vents disposed along a perimeter of the user interface assembly; a printed circuit board PCB disposed between the user interface assembly and the bottom surface and secured to an interior-facing surface of the user interface assembly; and A subwoofer is disposed between the user interface assembly and the bottom surface and is configured to push air toward the PCB during operation of the speaker, wherein a vertical axis extends through the user interface assembly, the PCB, and the subwoofer.

6. The loudspeaker according to claim 5, wherein: The vents are covered with acoustic fabric.

7. The loudspeaker according to claim 6, wherein: The acoustic fabric abuts a perimeter of the user interface assembly.

8. The loudspeaker according to claim 5, wherein: The air being pushed toward the PCB is generated by sub-audible waves.

9. The loudspeaker according to claim 5, wherein: The subwoofer is configured to oscillate at a frequency that induces vibrations at the user interface component in response to one or more user inputs.

10. The loudspeaker according to claim 5, wherein: The user interface component includes a light source configured to illuminate an area of ​​the user interface component.

11. An electronic device, comprising: Subwoofer, including: Diaphragm; a coil coupled to the diaphragm and configured to emit a varying magnetic field; a permanent magnet configured to interact with the varying magnetic field generated by the coil to cause the diaphragm to move axially, the permanent magnet including a plurality of lobes projecting radially therefrom; and One or more electronic components are disposed between at least two of the plurality of lobes of the permanent magnet.

12. The electronic device according to claim 11, wherein: The petals of the permanent magnet and the lateral projections of the first and second plates associated with the permanent magnet are distributed around the permanent magnet at regular radial intervals.

13. The electronic device according to claim 12, wherein: The first plate contacts a first surface of the permanent magnet, and the second plate contacts a second surface of the permanent magnet opposite to the first surface.

14. The electronic device according to claim 11, further comprising: A printed circuit board wherein the one or more electronic components include a capacitor mounted to the printed circuit board.

15. The electronic device according to claim 11, further comprising: An axisymmetric device housing having a longitudinal axis, Wherein, the subwoofer is arranged in the axisymmetric device housing and is placed along the longitudinal axis of the axisymmetric device housing.

16. The electronic device according to claim 15, wherein: The periphery of the subwoofer is secured to an annular ring secured to an inner surface of the axisymmetric device housing.

17. The electronic device according to claim 15, further comprising: a flange extending around a perimeter of the subwoofer, the flange defining notches disposed along a perimeter of the flange; and a compressible grommet inserted into one of the notches; an annular ring secured to an inner surface of an axisymmetric device housing; and A fastener extends through the compressible grommet and engages within the annular ring.

18. The electronic device according to claim 11, wherein: The permanent magnet is a monolithic permanent magnet.

19. A loudspeaker, comprising: Equipment housing; A subwoofer disposed within a device housing and having a diaphragm configured to oscillate in a direction aligned with a longitudinal axis of the device housing, the subwoofer comprising: a permanent magnet comprising a plurality of protrusions distributed at regular radial intervals about a longitudinal axis of the device housing; and One or more electronic components are disposed between at least two of the plurality of protrusions of the permanent magnet.

20. The loudspeaker according to claim 19, wherein The subwoofer further includes a flange defining mounting points along a perimeter of the subwoofer, and wherein the speaker further includes a resilient grommet disposed within one of the mounting points.

21. The speaker of claim 20, further comprising a fastener extending through an opening defined by the resilient grommet and engaging an annular mounting structure secured to an interior-facing surface of the device housing.

22. The loudspeaker according to claim 21, wherein The device housing includes an upper housing component and a lower housing component, and the lower housing component includes the annular mounting structure.

23. The loudspeaker of claim 22, a seal located between said lower housing member and said annular mounting structure, said seal operative to seal a rear cavity of said subwoofer from a front cavity of said subwoofer.

24. The loudspeaker according to claim 23, wherein The seal includes a ring of polymer material disposed between and adhered to first and second foam layers.

25. The speaker of claim 19, further comprising: An audio driver assembly is disposed within the rear cavity of the subwoofer.

26. The speaker of claim 25, further comprising a capacitor configured to power one of the audio driver assemblies, the capacitor being located between two of the plurality of protrusions of the permanent magnet.

27. The loudspeaker of claim 19, wherein: The plurality of protrusions includes three protrusions.

28. An electronic device comprising: Equipment housing; a subwoofer disposed within the device housing and including a permanent magnet having a plurality of lobes projecting radially therefrom; an audio driver assembly disposed within the device housing; and A capacitor is configured to power the audio driver assembly and is located between two of the plurality of lobes.

29. The electronic device according to claim 28, wherein: The audio driver assembly is disposed within a portion of a rear cavity of the device housing that acts as the subwoofer.

30. The electronic device according to claim 29, wherein: The subwoofer is configured to oscillate in a direction aligned with a longitudinal axis of the device housing.

31. An electronic device comprising: Axisymmetric equipment housing; an audio driver assembly radially distributed and defining a central recess, the central recess forming a rear cavity region of a woofer disposed within an axisymmetric device housing, wherein the rear cavity region enhances audio generated by the woofer; one or more sensors; and A processor is configured to determine one or more characteristics of a room in which the electronic device is located based on information provided by the one or more sensors, and to change the output of the audio driver assembly according to the one or more characteristics.

32. The electronic device according to claim 31, further comprising: Acoustic fabric wrapped around the perimeter of an axisymmetric device enclosure.

33. The electronic device according to claim 31, further comprising: A touch-sensitive user interface is disposed at a top end of the axisymmetric device housing.

34. The electronic device according to claim 33, wherein: A central region of the touch-sensitive user interface protrudes further from the axisymmetric device housing than a peripheral region of the touch-sensitive user interface.

35. The electronic device of claim 31, the woofer disposed within a central region of the axisymmetric device housing such that a longitudinal axis of the axisymmetric device housing extends through the woofer.

36. The electronic device of claim 31, further comprising: An annular circuit board is arranged in the device housing.

37. The electronic device according to claim 31, wherein: The one or more characteristics of the room include one or more objects detected around the electronic device.

38. The electronic device according to claim 31, further comprising: A microphone array is radially distributed within the axisymmetric device housing and is configured to receive voice commands from a user, wherein the processor is further configured to determine a location of the user based on sensor readings from two or more microphones in the microphone array.

39. The electronic device according to claim 31, wherein: The processor is further configured to synchronize the output of the audio driver assembly with an audio driver assembly of another electronic device.

40. The electronic device according to claim 31, wherein: The one or more sensors include one or more proximity sensors.

41. The electronic device according to claim 31, wherein: The audio driver assembly includes six or more speakers.

42. An electronic device comprising: Equipment housing; an audio driver assembly radially arranged and defining a central recess forming a rear cavity region of a subwoofer disposed within the device housing; a computer readable memory disposed within the device housing, wherein the rear cavity region enhances audio produced by the subwoofer; a microphone disposed within the device housing; a processor disposed within the device housing and coupled to the computer-readable memory, the processor configured to execute computer instructions stored in the computer-readable memory to interact with a user and process voice commands received by the microphone and to vary an output of the audio driver assembly based on one or more objects surrounding the electronic device; and A wireless communication system is disposed within the device housing and is configured to transmit the voice commands to a remote server for further processing.

43. The electronic device according to claim 42, wherein: Changing the output of the audio driver assemblies includes changing the output of one or more of the audio driver assemblies that are configured to emit audio toward the one or more objects.

44. The electronic device according to claim 42, further comprising: A plurality of microphones are radially distributed around the device housing.

45. The electronic device according to claim 42, wherein: Further processing performed by the remote server includes speech recognition.

46. ​​The electronic device of claim 42, further comprising: An array of microphones is radially distributed within the device housing.

47. The electronic device according to claim 42, wherein: The device housing is an axisymmetric device housing.

48. The electronic device of claim 42, further comprising: An annular printed circuit board is electrically coupled to one or more of the audio driver assemblies.

49. The electronic device according to claim 48, wherein: The device housing is an axisymmetric device housing, wherein the subwoofer intersects a longitudinal axis of the axisymmetric device housing.

50. The electronic device according to claim 42, wherein: The wireless communication system operates with the Bluetooth protocol.

51. An electronic device comprising: A device housing having one or more audio driver assemblies; a computer readable memory disposed within the device housing; a plurality of microphones disposed within the device housing and radially distributed about the longitudinal axis; a processor disposed within the device housing and coupled to the computer-readable memory, the processor configured to execute computer instructions stored in the computer-readable memory to interact with a user and process voice commands received by the plurality of microphones after recognizing a command phrase indicative of the user's intent to issue a voice command; and A wireless communication system is provided for transmitting instructions based at least in part on voice commands to one or more smart devices.

52. The electronic device according to claim 51 further comprising: A user interface is provided on the upper surface.

53. The electronic device according to claim 52, wherein: The user interface includes a capacitive touch sensor.

54. The electronic device of claim 51 , further comprising: A mesh fabric covering the outer surface of the device housing.

55. The electronic device according to claim 51, wherein: The audio driver assembly includes at least a low frequency audio driver assembly and a high frequency audio driver assembly.

56. The electronic device according to claim 55, wherein: The wireless communication system operates on the Wi-Fi protocol.

57. The electronic device according to claim 51, wherein: The wireless communication system operates on the Bluetooth protocol.

58. The electronic device according to claim 57, wherein: The wireless communication system operates on the Zigbee protocol.

59. The electronic device of claim 57, further comprising: and lighting features on an upper surface of the device.

60. The electronic device according to claim 51, wherein: The computer instructions enable the intelligent assistant interface.

61. An electronic device comprising: shell a plurality of transducers disposed within the housing; an audio input configured to receive a digital audio signal from an external device; one or more processing components; A memory unit coupled to and readable by the one or more processing components and storing therein a set of instructions that, when executed by the one or more processing components, cause the processing components to implement an operating system of the electronic device and to generate a transducer drive signal from a digital audio signal.

62. The electronic device according to claim 61, wherein: The memory unit includes a non-volatile random access memory.

63. The electronic device according to claim 61, wherein: The one or more processing components are further configured to decode digital audio stored locally on the electronic device.

64. The electronic device according to claim 61, wherein: The plurality of transducers includes a first plurality of transducers aligned in a first horizontal plane and at least one second transducer aligned in a second horizontal plane spaced vertically from the first horizontal plane.

65. The electronic device according to claim 64, wherein: The second transducer is a low frequency transducer configured for low frequency content, and wherein each transducer of the first plurality of transducers is configured for content within a frequency range higher than the low frequency transducer.

66. The electronic device of claim 61 further comprising a plurality of power amplifiers, and wherein: Each transducer of the plurality of transducers is coupled to one of the plurality of power amplifiers configured to amplify a transducer drive signal for the transducer.

67. The electronic device of claim 66, further comprising: A digital-to-analog converter circuit is coupled to the inputs of the plurality of power amplifiers and is configured to convert digital transducer drive signals received at the digital-to-analog converter circuit into analog transducer drive signals that are transmitted to the plurality of power amplifiers.

68. The electronic device of claim 61, further comprising a second audio input configured to receive an analog audio signal from an external device.

69. The electronic device according to claim 61, wherein: The housing is axisymmetric.

70. The electronic device according to claim 61, wherein: The housing is cylindrical.

71. An electronic device comprising: shell; an audio receiver disposed within the housing and configured to wirelessly receive a digital audio signal from an external device and generate a transducer drive signal; a plurality of power amplifiers disposed within the housing and coupled to receive the transducer drive signals from the audio receiver and generate amplified transducer drive signals; and A plurality of audio transducers are disposed within the housing, wherein each of the plurality of audio transducers is coupled to receive an amplified transducer drive signal output from one of the plurality of power amplifiers.

72. The electronic device according to claim 71, wherein: The transducer drive signal generated by the audio receiver is a digital transducer drive signal, and the device also includes a circuit coupled between the audio receiver and the power amplifier to convert the digital transducer drive signal into an analog transducer drive signal received by the plurality of power amplifiers.

73. The electronic device according to claim 71, wherein: The audio receiver includes both wireless and wired inputs.

74. The electronic device according to claim 71, wherein: The audio receiver is configured to wirelessly receive the digital audio signal using a Bluetooth protocol.

75. The electronic device according to claim 71, wherein: The audio receiver is configured to wirelessly receive the digital audio signal using a wireless protocol in accordance with the 802.11 suite of standards.

76. The electronic device according to claim 71, wherein: The plurality of transducers are evenly spaced about the housing and aligned in a first horizontal plane.

77. The electronic device according to claim 76, wherein: The plurality of transducers includes a low frequency transducer configured for low frequency content and a set of higher frequency transducers configured for content within a higher frequency range than the low frequency transducer.

78. The electronic device according to claim 71, wherein: Each transducer of the plurality of transducers is independently and individually driven to produce a sound pattern representative of a respective channel of sound content received at the audio input.

79. The electronic device according to claim 78, wherein: The sound patterns differ in shape and direction.

80. The electronic device according to claim 71, wherein: The audio receiver comprises: one or more processing elements; and A memory unit coupled to and readable by the one or more processing components and storing therein a set of instructions that, when executed by the one or more processing components, cause the processing components to implement an operating system of the electronic device and to generate a transducer drive signal from a digital audio signal.

81. A speaker sized and shaped to be placed on a tabletop, the speaker comprising: a housing having a top surface and a bottom surface; A plurality of transducers are disposed within the housing and aligned with the horizontal plane.

82. The loudspeaker of claim 81, wherein The distance between the center of the diaphragm of each transducer of the plurality of transducers and the reflective surface is between 4-20 mm.

83. The loudspeaker of claim 81, wherein The diaphragm of each transducer is centered near the bottom surface of the axisymmetric housing.

84. The loudspeaker of claim 81, further comprising: A base plate is coupled to the bottom surface of the housing.

85. The loudspeaker of claim 84, wherein The plurality of transducers emit sound toward an upper surface of the base plate.

86. The loudspeaker of claim 85, wherein The distance between the center of the diaphragm of each of the plurality of transducers and the upper surface of the base plate is between 4-20 mm.

87. The loudspeaker of claim 81, wherein The lower portion of the housing has a frustoconical shape.

88. The loudspeaker of claim 87, wherein The plurality of transducers are radially disposed along an angled surface of the frustoconical portion of the housing.

89. The speaker of claim 81, further comprising: An audio input is configured to receive sound content, and wherein each of the plurality of transducers is independently and individually driven to generate a sound pattern representative of a respective channel of the sound content received at the audio input.

90. The speaker of claim 81, further comprising: The speaker is configured to wirelessly receive an audio input of sound content in digital form, and wherein the speaker includes a digital-to-analog conversion circuit coupled between the audio input and the plurality of transducers to convert the digital sound content into analog transducer drive signals.

91. A loudspeaker, comprising: an axisymmetric housing having a top surface, a bottom surface, and a side surface extending between the top surface and the bottom surface; a plurality of transducers radially disposed about the axisymmetric housing; A bottom plate is coupled to the bottom surface and is sized and shaped to provide stability to the speaker.

92. The loudspeaker of claim 91, wherein The base plate is a solid structure having a flat lower surface perpendicular to the height of the housing.

93. The loudspeaker of claim 91, wherein: The bottom plate extends beyond the side surface of the housing.

94. The loudspeaker of claim 91, wherein The housing includes a slot formed between at least one transducer of the plurality of transducers and the base plate.

95. The loudspeaker of claim 91, wherein The lower portion of the housing has a frustoconical shape.

96. The speaker of claim 91, further comprising: A screen configured to function as a low pass filter is disposed between at least one transducer of the plurality of transducers and the base plate.

97. The speaker of claim 91, further comprising: A plurality of acoustic partitions are disposed between the plurality of transducers and the base plate.

98. The loudspeaker of claim 96, wherein: The screen comprises a mesh material.

99. The loudspeaker of claim 96, wherein: The screen creates a cavity beneath the housing.

100. The loudspeaker of claim 91, wherein: The housing has a conical shape.

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