Suspension system for loudspeaker

Abstract

A suspension system for a speaker is disclosed. The speaker may include a frame, a diaphragm flexibly attached to the frame, and a motor for driving the diaphragm. The motor may include a magnetic element and a voice coil. The speaker may also include a suspension system having a coil holder coupled to the voice coil, a flat spring coupling the coil holder and the frame, and a compensation element associated with the flat spring.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 377,652, filed on September 29, 2022, and U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 503,389, filed on May 19, 2023, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to consumer products, and more particularly to suspension systems for use in speakers, as well as methods, systems, products, features, services, and other elements of speakers or certain aspects thereof. Background Art

[0004] A suspension system (such as a spider) in a speaker can include a ring of rubber material with corrugations to provide a spring - like suspension effect between the speaker diaphragm and the frame or chassis. Such systems may not be suitable when the design of the speaker changes. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0005] The features, aspects, and advantages of the presently disclosed technology can be better understood with reference to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the relevant art will understand that the features shown in the drawings are for illustrative purposes only, and that variations including different and / or additional features and their arrangements are possible.

[0006] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a part of a speaker.

[0007] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a first suspension system for use in a speaker.

[0008] Figure 3 is Figure 2 another perspective view of the first suspension system of

[0009] Figure 4 is Figure 2 another perspective view of the first suspension system of

[0010] Figure 5 is Figure 2 a perspective view of the first suspension system and voice coil of

[0011] Figure 6 is a plan view showing two Figure 2 suspension systems connected by a connecting element.

[0012] Figure 7 is a plan view of a suspension system including a reinforcing member for use in a component.

[0013] Figure 8 Is a perspective view of a second suspension system and a voice coil for use in a loudspeaker.

[0014] Figure 9 Is Figure 8 A plan view of the second suspension system and the voice coil of.

[0015] Figure 10 Is a plan view of a third suspension system for use in a loudspeaker.

[0016] Figure 11 Is a perspective view of a fourth suspension system for use in a loudspeaker.

[0017] Figure 12 Is a perspective view of a frame for a loudspeaker having two fifth suspension systems.

[0018] Figure 13 Is a perspective view of a sixth suspension system for use in a loudspeaker.

[0019] Figure 14A Is a plan (top) view of a suspension system configured for use in a loudspeaker according to an example of the disclosed technology.

[0020] Figure 14B And Figure 14C Are respectively Figure 14A An isometric view and a side view of the suspension system of.

[0021] Figure 14D Is Figure 14B An enlarged view of a part of. Detailed Description

[0022] I. Overview

[0023] The embodiments described herein relate to suspension systems, which may be referred to as spider mounts, suspension elements, or loudspeaker dampers, for use in playback devices including one or more transducers or loudspeakers. Further embodiments relate to frames for use in loudspeakers and loudspeakers including suspension systems and / or frames.

[0024] Generally speaking, the aspects described herein provide improvements over other suspension systems, such as spider mounts and speaker dampers, as well as speakers. Particular improvements relate to one or more of the following: making use of the space within the speaker, as the described suspension system can fit into a more compact arrangement; improving the operation of the suspension system and the speaker, as the described suspension system and arrangement can provide altered resonance characteristics; and improving the assembly of the speaker, as the suspension system can have features that make the assembly simpler. The suspension system and speaker can be particularly suitable for arrangements having a diaphragm driven by two or more driver arrangements, as well as arrangements having two diaphragms arranged coaxially and / or on opposite faces of the frame of the speaker frame.

[0025] A suspension system can be provided in a speaker as a suspension system for one or more voice coils of the speaker. The suspension system can provide damping for the coil. The suspension system can act as a restoring spring mechanism to return the voice coil to a rest position relative to the magnetic element. Thus, the suspension system can provide the function of anchoring the voice coil within the speaker to prevent the voice coil from vibrating excessively. In addition to the (one or more) suspension systems, the speaker can also include a flexible surround that provides a function similar to the suspension system but connects the diaphragm to the frame rather than the voice coil.

[0026] In some aspects described herein, a suspension system for use in a speaker can include a coil cage for coupling to a voice coil of the speaker and a flat spring for coupling the coil cage to the frame of the speaker. In some examples, the suspension system can include two flat springs. The flat spring can be a substantially planar or flat element that stores energy when deformed away from its plane.

[0027] One or more features can be provided to alter the resonance characteristics of the suspension system. For example, a stiffening element can be associated with the flat spring. The flat spring can have a resonance frequency. The stiffening element can alter the resonance frequency of the flat spring. The stiffening element can stiffen the flat spring. Stiffening the flat spring can increase the resonance frequency of the flat spring. This can ensure that the resonance frequency is higher than the frequency at which the voice coil and thus the suspension system can vibrate during use. The flat spring can be attached to the coil cage at a first end and to the frame at a second end. The stiffening element can be positioned closer to the second end than the first end. The stiffening element can also alternatively or additionally be positioned closer to the frame than the coil cage. Positioning the stiffening element closer to the second end and / or closer to the frame can provide the effect of stiffening the flat spring while minimizing the increase in the mass to be moved by the voice coil. The stiffening element can be integrally formed with the flat spring. The stiffening element can be mounted on the flat spring. The stiffening element can include a member connected to the flat spring by at least two legs (for example, one at each end of a rod). One of the legs can be provided at the second end of the flat spring.

[0028] More than one flat spring can be attached, coupled, or connected to the coil cage. For example, at least two flat springs can be attached to the coil cage. The at least two flat springs can be offset relative to each other. One way the flat springs can be offset is to be offset around the coil cage, such as at different positions around the perimeter or circumference of the coil cage. The flat springs can be offset around the moving axis of the voice coil and the suspension system. In other words, the flat springs can be radially offset. The radially offset flat springs can be connected to the frame at more than one location. Such an arrangement can ensure more stable movement of the suspension system. More than one flat spring can reduce torsional movement or movement other than movement along the vibration axis of the voice coil. Alternatively or additionally, the flat springs can be "stacked" such that two or more flat springs are connected to the coil cage such that they are axially spaced apart in the direction of movement of the voice coil. In some examples, the plurality of flat springs are connected at a first end to the coil cage, and the first ends of at least two of the plurality of flat springs are axially aligned. In some examples, all of the flat springs can have substantially the same shape.

[0029] One flat spring can cover another flat spring. In some examples, the outer edge of one flat spring can have substantially the same shape as the inner edge of another flat spring. Doing so can avoid the covering of flat springs. Avoiding the covering of flat springs can improve manufacturing by making techniques such as injection molding simpler.

[0030] When there are at least two flat springs that are axially offset in the direction of movement of the voice coil, the flat springs can be connected by one or more stiffening elements. The second ends of the flat springs can be connected by the stiffening elements. The flat springs can be connected between the first end and the second end by the stiffening elements. Connecting more than one flat spring together generally increases the stiffness of the flat springs, thereby increasing the resonance frequency.

[0031] In some examples, the flat spring can define one or more through-holes. The flat spring can define a plurality of through-holes. The through-holes can be defined in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the flat spring. One or more through-holes can be defined along the length of the flat spring. One or more of the through-holes can have an oval shape. One or more of the through-holes can follow the contour of the flat spring. Providing one or more through-holes can reduce the mass of the flat spring, which in turn can increase the resonance frequency. One or more through-holes can make the flat spring more compliant. Thus, one or more through-holes can enable the adjustment of the characteristics of the flat spring.

[0032] In some examples, when the suspension system is part of a speaker, the suspension system is mechanically connected, coupled, or attached to the voice coil. The suspension system can be mechanically connected to the voice coil via a coil former. The coil former can be mechanically connected to the voice coil in at least one direction. The coil former can be mechanically connected to the voice coil in two opposite directions. The coil former can be mechanically connected to the voice coil in two opposite directions of movement when the voice coil vibrates during use. To mechanically connect the coil former to the voice coil, mechanical coupling members can be provided on the coil former. The mechanical coupling members can include one or more flanges. In some examples, at least two flanges are provided. The voice coil can be positioned near the flanges, such as between the flanges. When positioning the voice coil between the flanges, the coil former can be moved with the voice coil by the voice coil pushing against the first flange in one direction and against the second flange in the opposite direction. The flanges can extend from a support or surround of the coil former. The flanges can be radially offset from each other with respect to the axis of movement of the voice coil. A plurality of flanges can be provided along the edge of the support of the coil former. The flanges can be spaced apart. Spacing the flanges apart can facilitate cooling of the coil. In some examples, the coil former can partially surround the perimeter of the voice coil. This can also improve cooling and the compactness of the suspension system. The partially surrounding coil former also enables the voice coil to be received on the coil former in a first direction perpendicular to a second direction in which the voice coil moves during use. For example, such a partially surrounding coil former can have a circumference or perimeter that extends less than 180° around an axis parallel to the second direction. This can improve manufacturing.

[0033] The flat spring can be arranged to avoid interfering with the speaker's frame, which can allow for a more compact speaker arrangement. For example, in one example, the flat spring can be coupled to the coil former in a plane different from the plane in which the flat spring extends. Thus, the flat spring may be axially offset from the point at which it is connected to the coil former. This can be achieved using a connecting member, such as an angled or ramped element that changes the position of the flat spring relative to the coil former.

[0034] The suspension system can be formed by injection molding. In some examples, at least a portion of the suspension system can be integrally molded with the speaker's frame. The suspension system can be integrally molded with the frame by injection molding. Integrally molding the suspension system with the frame can improve durability and reduce manufacturing complexity.

[0035] The suspension system may include portions, components, cages, sockets, or other fixtures for holding the electrical leads of the speaker. The electrical leads are typically kept loose to accommodate the movement of the voice coil during use. In a compact arrangement, the loose electrical leads may be more likely to vibrate on the surface, so including a portion for holding the electrical leads on the suspension system reduces this likelihood without unduly restricting the ability to accommodate the movement of the voice coil during use. The cage for the electrical leads on the suspension system allows the leads to move with the suspension system, thereby reducing the likelihood that the leads will become caught in the suspension system during movement. The portion may include a generally U-shaped bracket. The electrical leads may be pressed into the portion to secure them to the suspension system and are held in place by the compliance or elasticity of the material forming the U-shaped bracket. The portion may be provided on the coil cage of the suspension system.

[0036] The suspension system may be provided as part of a speaker. The speaker may include: a frame; a first diaphragm flexibly or elastically attached or mounted in the frame; a first motor for driving the first diaphragm, which may be referred to as a speaker driver, the first motor including a first magnetic element and a first voice coil; and a first suspension system for coupling the first voice coil to the frame as described above. In some examples, the first diaphragm may also be driven by a second motor, the second motor including a second magnetic element and a second voice coil, and the speaker may include the second motor and a second suspension system. The first suspension system and the second suspension system may be connected by one or more connecting members. The connecting members may include stiffening ribs. The connecting members may transfer the movement of the first and second voice coils to the diaphragm. One or both of the first suspension system and the second suspension system may include strengthening elements coupled to the connecting members. The strengthening elements may reduce the distortion or torsion of the connecting members, thereby improving the stability of the first suspension system and the second suspension system.

[0037] In other examples, the speaker may include a second diaphragm. The second diaphragm may be coaxial and / or opposed to the first diaphragm. The second diaphragm may be driven by at least a third motor having a third magnetic element and a third voice coil. A third suspension system as described above may couple the third voice coil to the frame. The second diaphragm may also be additionally driven by a fourth motor, the same as those discussed above for the first motor and the second motor for the first diaphragm.

[0038] Although some examples described herein may involve functions performed by a given actor (e.g., "user", "listener", and / or other entity), it should be understood that this is for explanatory purposes only. Unless the language of the claims themselves expressly requires it, the claims should not be construed as requiring any such example actor to take action.

[0039] In the drawings, like reference numerals generally represent like and / or identical elements. For ease of discussion of any particular element, the most significant digit or digits of the reference numeral refer to the figure in which the element was first introduced. For example, the suspension system 120 is first referenced Figure 1 and discussed. Many of the details, dimensions, angles, and other features shown in the figures are merely illustrative of particular embodiments of the disclosed technology. Accordingly, other embodiments may have other details, dimensions, angles, and features without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. Additionally, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that further embodiments of the various disclosed technologies may be practiced without several of the details described below.

[0040] II. Exemplary Systems and Devices

[0041] Figure 1 A perspective cross-sectional view of a portion of a transducer or speaker 100 is shown. In some examples, the speaker 100 is at least partially housed in and / or on a playback device. In some examples, the playback device may include a playback device provided for sale by Sonos Inc., such as including "SONOS ONE", "FIVE", "PLAYBAR", "AMP", "CONNECT:AMP", "PLAYBASE", "BEAM", "ARC", "CONNECT", "MOVE", "ROAM", "SUB", or "SUBMINI". Any other suitable playback device may additionally or alternatively be used to implement the (multiple) playback devices of the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein. In certain examples, the speaker 100 may be configured to be positioned in and / or operate in a vehicle (such as an automobile, bus, train, airplane, ship, etc.).

[0042] In Figure 1 an example, the speaker 100 includes a frame 102 in which a diaphragm 104 is mounted. The diaphragm 104 is elastically attached and / or flexibly connected to the frame 102 by a surround 106. The speaker 100 also includes a first motor 108 and a second motor. The first motor 108 includes a first magnetic element 112 and a first voice coil 114. The second motor 110 includes a second magnetic element 116 and a second voice coil 118. A first suspension system 120 is coupled to the first voice coil 114. The first suspension system 120 couples the first voice coil 114 to the frame 102. A second suspension system 122 is coupled to the second voice coil 118. The second suspension system 122 couples the second voice coil 118 to the frame 102. The first suspension system and the second suspension system may be referred to as a spider or speaker damper.

[0043] The first suspension system 120 and the second suspension system 122 are connected by two connecting elements 124, which may themselves be at least partially connected along their lengths or integrally formed. The connecting elements 124 also connect the first suspension system 120 and the second suspension system 122 to the diaphragm 104. In use, signals are provided to the first voice coil 114 and the second voice coils 114, 118, causing them to move along their respective central axes. The first suspension system 120 and the second suspension system 122 move accordingly with the voice coils 114, 118. This movement is transmitted to the diaphragm 104 through the connecting elements 124. By transmitting the movement of the voice coils 114, 118 to the diaphragm 104, the loudspeaker can reproduce audio.

[0044] Now turning to Figures 2 to 4 , independently of Figure 1 the other components depicted in

[0045] an exemplary suspension system 120 is depicted. Although the reference numeral of the first suspension system 120 is used to refer to the exemplary suspension system, the features described with respect to the suspension system 120 may also be present in the second suspension system 122.

[0046] As Figure 1 part of the loudspeaker in

[0047] The flange 134 extends from the proximal edge 136 and the distal edge 138 of the support member 132. The proximal edge 136 and the distal edge 138 can be defined relative to the diaphragm 104 in the assembled loudspeaker such that the proximal edge 136 faces or is closer to the diaphragm 104. As part of the loudspeaker, the voice coil 114 is received between the flanges 134 of each edge 136, 138. The flange 134 along the proximal edge 136 couples the suspension system and the voice coil in one direction, while the flange 135 along the distal edge 138 couples the suspension system and the voice coil in the opposite direction. The flanges 134, 135 extend from the support member 132 and are arranged to cover a portion of the proximal or distal surface of the coil when the voice coil is received between the flanges 134, 135. The flanges 134, 135, 135 are spaced apart from each other along the proximal edge 136 and the distal edge 138. Spacing the flanges 134 apart along their respective edges 136, 138 can provide thermal benefits because less of the voice coil 114 is covered by the suspension system. Spacing the flanges 134, 135 apart also reduces the mass of the suspension system while still providing a mechanical coupling. As best seen in Figure 4 the flanges 134, 135 can also be offset or misaligned along the respective proximal edge 136 and distal edge 138. Offsetting the flanges can be useful for improving the stability of the voice coil while reducing the mass of the suspension system.

[0048] Figure 5 The suspension system 120 with the voice coil 114 is shown independent of Figure 1 the other components in Figure 5 As can be seen in Figure 5 the support member 132 partially surrounds the outer surface 180 of the voice coil 114, having an angular range of approximately 180° about the axis of the voice coil, but other examples can have different angular ranges. The flange 134 along the proximal edge 136 extends onto the proximal surface 182 of the voice coil 114. Although not visible in Figure 5 the flange 135 along the distal edge 138 of the support member 132 extends onto the distal surface 184 of the voice coil 114. The voice coil 114 is received between the flanges 134, 135.

[0049] The voice coil 114 is shaped like a ring and surrounds a central axis, and the voice coil vibrates along this central axis during use. During assembly, the voice coil 114 can be received between the flanges 134 in a first direction that is perpendicular to the central axis and thus perpendicular to the direction in which the voice coil 114 vibrates during use. It can then be fixed within the coil cage by an adhesive.

[0050] Returning to Figures 2 to 4, the inner surface 140 of the support member 132 faces the outer surface of the voice coil 114. The first flat spring 144 and the second flat spring 146 are connected to the outer surface 142 of the support member 132. The flat springs 144, 146 couple the coil cage 130 to the frame 102 of the speaker. The flat springs 144, 146 are connected to the coil cage 130 at a first end 148 and to the frame 102 at a second end 150. When the speaker is unassembled and the suspension system is not connected to the frame or the voice coil, the second ends 150 of the flat springs 144, 146 are free ends. The flat springs 144, 146 are radially offset about the coil cage 130. The radial offset can also be considered with respect to the axis of movement of the voice coil in use and thus the suspension system. The flat springs 144, 146 are connected to the coil cage at a distal edge 138 that is furthest from the diaphragm 104 in use.

[0051] The portion 152 connects the first flat spring 144 to the coil cage 130. The portion 152 is shaped to displace the first flat spring 144 relative to the distal edge 138 of the coil cage 130. Thus, the first flat spring 144 extends in a plane different from the plane in which it is connected to the coil cage. Such portions can be used for any flat spring of such a suspension system. These portions allow the suspension system to conform to the shaping or molding of the frame 102, which can allow for a more compact speaker.

[0052] A stiffening element 154 is associated with the first flat spring 144. The stiffening element 154 is located at the second end 150 of the first flat spring 144. The stiffening element 154 includes a member 156 that is connected to the first flat spring 144 by two legs 158 at both ends. The stiffening element 154 stiffens the first flat spring 144 to increase the resonant frequency of the flat spring 144. Mounting the stiffening element 154 at the second end 150 increases the stiffness of the first flat spring 144 without significantly changing the mass that is moved by the voice coil 114 in use. The stiffening element 154 is provided on a portion of the first flat spring 144 rather than the entire length of the first flat spring 144, and stiffens a portion of the first flat spring rather than the entire length of the first flat spring. Stiffening a portion of the first flat spring can allow adjustment of the stiffness to change the resonance. Providing the stiffening element on the first flat spring rather than increasing the thickness of the first flat spring allows stiffness to be added to the first flat spring without affecting other characteristics of the first flat spring, such as the fatigue limit.

[0053] The suspension system 120 further includes a strengthening element 160 that is connected to the coil cage at the outer surface 142 of the coil cage 130. As Figure 1As shown, the reinforcing element 160 is connected to the connecting element 124. The reinforcing element 160 can strengthen the connecting element 124. The reinforcing element 160 can strengthen the suspension system 120. The reinforcing element 160 can strengthen the connection between the suspension system 120 and the connecting element 124. The reinforcing element 160 can reduce the distortion and / or movement of the suspension system, in addition to, for example, the linear movement imparted by the voice coil.

[0054] Figure 6 The connection using the reinforcing element 160 between the two suspension systems 120, 122 and the connecting element 124 is shown independent of Figure 1 other components. It can be seen that the reinforcing element 160 has a box-like shape corresponding to the space between it and the connecting element 124. Thus, the connecting element 124 is connected to the suspension system 120 with a larger surface area than when they are attached in other ways, thereby reducing torsional forces and increasing the stiffness and connection of the two elements.

[0055] Consider Figures 2 to 6 , although the various parts of the suspension system 120 are described separately, this is for clarity. Generally, the suspension system 120 can be a single part, i.e., the components are integrally formed. To achieve this, the suspension system 120 can be molded, cast, or formed. For example, the suspension system 120 can be injection molded. The suspension system 120 can be made of a plastic material (such as PEEK, nylon, or acetal (also known as POM or polyoxymethylene)). In other examples, a part of the suspension system can be injection molded or otherwise integrally formed. Two or more parts of the suspension system can be joined together using adhesives or fasteners, or in any suitable way.

[0056] The suspension system can be used in speakers of any size or in playback devices containing such speakers (such as headphones or earbuds, tweeters, woofers, or subwoofers). In some examples, the size of the suspension system can be such that it fits into an enclosure box ranging from 24 mm × 9 mm to 64 mm × 38 mm.

[0057] A support structure can also be included during this process to increase the stiffness of the suspension system 120 during speaker assembly. This can simplify the assembly of the speaker including the suspension system. Figure 7 An example of this is shown. In Figure 7In [the figure], the suspension system 120 includes three support structures 162, 164, and 166. The first support structure 162 connects the second free end of the second flat spring 146 to another part of the second flat spring 146. The second support structure 164 connects two flanges 134 of the coil cage 130. The third support structure 166 connects the second free end of the first flat spring 144 to the coil cage 130. Thus, the support structures 162, 164, 166 strengthen the parts of the suspension system 120 that may bend or be subjected to forces during assembly. This increases the rigidity of the suspension system 120 during assembly. After the suspension system has been positioned as part of a speaker, the support structures 162, 164, 166 can be removed. For example, the support structures can be removed by hand or through an automated production line. The support structures can be removed at different points during assembly. For example, the support 164 can be removed before supports 162 and 166 to allow insertion of the voice coil. Supports 162 and 166 can be removed after the voice coil is in place. It will also be understood that the support structures can be provided at other positions than Figure 7 the positions shown.

[0058] Figure 8 and Figure 9 show a voice coil 214 and another suspension system 220 that can be used for a transducer or a speaker (such as speaker 100). Figure 8 and Figure 9 The suspension system 220 shown has a coil cage 230 and strengthening elements 260 that are similar to the coil cage and strengthening elements of the suspension system 120 described above with respect to Figures 2 to 7 The suspension system 220 is different from Figures 2 to 7 the suspension system 120 in that it includes a first pair of "stacked" flat springs 222, 224 and a second pair of stacked flat springs 226, 228. The first pair of flat springs 222, 224 is located on one side of the coil cage 230, while the second pair of flat springs 226, 228 is located on the other side (usually the opposite side) of the coil cage 230, offset radially or circumferentially from the first pair of flat springs 222, 224. The flat springs on each side are stacked such that when viewed in a plan view, one flat spring is located above the other. Stacking the flat springs in this way can be referred to as the flat springs in each pair being axially spaced apart in the direction of movement of the voice coil. In each pair, one flat spring is connected to the coil cage at the proximal edge of the coil cage 230, while the other flat spring is connected to the coil cage at the distal edge of the coil cage 230. In other arrangements, the flat springs can be connected to the coil cage 230 at any position.

[0059] In Figure 8 and Figure 9In the arrangement shown, the flat springs in each pair are connected by two stiffening elements 230, 232. The first stiffening element 230 connects the free ends 234 of the flat springs together. The second stiffening element 232 connects the flat springs together at a substantially central position along the length of the flat springs.

[0060] As can be best seen in Figure 9 , when viewed in plan view, the first pair of flat springs 222, 224 are not aligned. Instead, the inner edge of one flat spring is aligned with the outer edge of the other flat spring and has the same shape. This can be referred to as conical. Arranging the flat springs in this way can assist in manufacturing because the conical shape can be more suitable for molding or casting as they can be easily removed from the mold (casting mold) or casting. In other examples, the flat springs can have the same profile or edge shape and be aligned along the axial direction of the voice coil, as shown for the second pair of flat springs 226, 228 in Figure 8 and Figure 9 .

[0061] Figure 10 Another suspension system 320 is shown. The suspension system 320 is substantially similar to the suspension system 120. The suspension system 320 differs from the suspension system 120 in that the flat springs define a plurality of through-holes 322. The through-holes 322 are defined by the flat springs 344, 346. The through-holes 322 have a generally oval, rectangular or stadium shape and are positioned along the length of the flat springs 344, 346. Defining through-holes in the flat springs 344, 346 can reduce the mass of the flat springs 344, 346. Defining the through-holes can also increase the compliance of the flat springs 344, 346. Reducing the mass and increasing the compliance can be useful for tailoring the characteristics of the flat springs 344, 346 to meet the requirements of a particular speaker. The flat springs can be combined with any of the other features described herein, for example, stiffening elements attached to the flat springs as discussed with reference to element 154, support structures for assisting assembly as discussed with reference to Figure 7 , and the "stacked" flat springs of Figure 8 and Figure 9 .

[0062] Figure 11 An example of another suspension system 420 is shown. Another suspension system 420 has a coil cage 422 and two flat springs 424, 426. Figure 11 A suspension system 420 is shown having a support structure 428 for maintaining stiffness during assembly and which can be removed after assembly. The suspension system 420 can include any of the features described with respect to the suspension systems of Figures 2 to 10 above.

[0063] The coil cage 422 includes a support 430 that partially surrounds the outer periphery of the voice coil in use. The coil cage 422 also includes a semi-circular flange 432 connected to the edge of the support 430. The semi-circular flange 432 can provide support and positioning functions for the voice coil in use and stiffen the coil cage 422. The voice coil can still be received into the suspension system 420 by sliding it in a first direction perpendicular to the direction of movement in use.

[0064] Figure 11 The suspension system 420 includes a portion 434 for holding the electrical leads. The portion 434 in this example includes clips into which the electrical leads can be pressed. Holding the electrical leads against the suspension system 420 makes it less likely that the electrical leads will vibrate against or otherwise interfere with other components of the speaker. Thus, using clips to retain the electrical leads can have a positive impact on audio quality and durability. The portion 434 for holding the electrical leads is provided on the coil cage here. In other examples, the portion 434 can be located elsewhere on the suspension system 430. Although described with respect to Figure 11 the exemplary suspension system 430, the portion 434 for holding the electrical leads can be included as part of any of the suspension systems described herein, in combination with any features of those suspension systems. Similarly, a coil cage with an additional semi-circular flange can be included in any of the suspension systems discussed above.

[0065] Figure 12 A portion of a frame 502 for a speaker is shown. Two suspension systems 520 and 522 are integrally formed with the frame 502. A voice coil 514 associated with one of the suspension systems 520 is shown. Each of the suspension systems 520, 522 has a coil cage 524 and two flat springs 526, 528. In this example, the coil cage 524 does not include a flange and instead uses an adhesive to hold the coil.

[0066] Figure 13 A suspension system 620 is shown. The suspension system 620 includes a coil cage 622 and a circular flat spring 624. The coil cage includes a flange 626 that supports the distal surface of the voice coil and a support 628. In Figure 13 the suspension system, the suspension system is inserted into the coil cage in the same direction as its movement in use and fixed with an adhesive.

[0067] Figure 14A is a plan (top) view of a suspension system 1420 similar to the suspension systems 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, and / or 620 described above. Figure 14B and Figure 14C are an isometric view and a side view of the suspension system 1420, respectively. Figure 14DYes Figure 14B is an enlarged view of a portion of. Refer to Figure 14A , the suspension system 1420 includes a proximal portion 1444, an intermediate portion 1445, and a distal portion 1446. In some examples, the proximal portion 1444 and the distal portion 1446 include separate flat springs (e.g., Figure 10 flat springs 244 and 346 of). The ends 1450 (shown as a first end 1450a and a second end 1450b) are configured to couple the proximal portion 1444 and the distal portion 1446 to corresponding locations on a transducer frame (e.g., Figure 1 ) when the suspension system 1420 is mounted in a transducer (such as a speaker 100 ( Figure 1 ). The movable compensation element 1490 is located between a first segment 1447a and a second segment 1447b of the distal portion 1446.

[0068] The voice coil holder 1422 in the intermediate portion 1445 defines an opening 1423 and is configured to receive a voice coil (not shown), such as voice coil 114 ( Figure 1 and Figure 5 ). The reinforcing elements 1460 (shown as a first reinforcing element 1460a and a second reinforcing element 1460b) are connected to corresponding portions of a connecting element (not shown) (such as connecting element 124 ( Figure 1 and Figure 6 ). One or more through-holes or voids 1422 (e.g., Figure 10 through-hole 322 of) may reduce mass and / or increase the compliance of the suspension system 1420. As described in more detail above with respect to Figure 10 , the number, (plural) shape, and / or (plural) size of the voids 1422 may contribute to adjusting the performance of the suspension system 1420 according to transducer design requirements.

[0069] Now refer to Figure 14D, a compensation element 1490 (e.g., one or more elongated members, stress relief features, strain relief features, connectors, linkages, hinge assemblies, brackets, springs, suspension elements, dampers, actuators) defines a hole, void, aperture, or opening 1491. A first suspension arm 1492 (shown as a first proximal arm portion 1492a and a first distal arm portion 1492b) and a second suspension arm 1494 (shown as a second proximal arm portion 1494a and a second distal arm portion 1494b). Flexible portions 1493, 1495 (e.g., one or more hinges, joints, bearings, pivots) allow the corresponding suspension arms 1492, 1494 to move inwardly and outwardly in a direction substantially aligned with axis B. The resulting inward movement (e.g., flexible portions 1493 and 1495 moving toward each other) and outward movement (e.g., flexible portions 1493 and 1495 moving away from each other) respectively cause the length L of the compensation element 1490 to increase and decrease.

[0070] In the example shown, when the voice coil carrier 1422 (e.g., in a direction aligned with the Figure 14C axis Z) moves axially, the suspension arms 1492, 1494 move substantially laterally (e.g., coplanar with axis B) in response to the movement of the first segment 1447a. However, in some examples, the suspension arms 1492, 1494 move in a direction perpendicular to (or inclined to) axis B. For example, in certain examples, instead of moving inwardly and outwardly toward the voice coil carrier 1422 and the second end 1450b respectively, the suspension arms 1492, 1494 can rotate 90 degrees such that they effectively move up and down during operation (e.g., parallel to the movement of the voice coil carrier 1422). Additionally, in the example shown, the compensation element 1490 includes a pair of suspension arms (e.g., suspension arms 1492, 1494). In some examples, the compensation element 1490 includes a single suspension arm (e.g., a shock absorber). In some examples, the compensation element 1490 includes a linkage with a scissor mechanism. In certain examples, the compensation element 1490 includes a bellows.

[0071] Now referring together to Figures 14A to 14D , during the operation of a transducer (e.g., Figure 1 the speaker 100), as the voice coil(s) move the corresponding diaphragm (e.g., Figure 1 the diaphragm 104), the individual suspension elements can experience significant forces and stresses. In some cases, the balance inherent in a particular arrangement or component design can mitigate or at least reduce the stress in the individual suspension elements. However, in many cases, an imbalance in the stress or force in a single suspension element can cause strain in the element, which can affect performance and accelerate failure. Stress can occur in multiple dimensions, such as the horizontal direction, the lateral direction, or a first direction (e.g., parallel to Figure 14Caligned with the axis A) and / or in the vertical direction or the second direction (e.g., aligned with the Figure 14C axis Z).

[0072] In some examples, the movement of the voice coil cage 1422 (caused by the corresponding movement of the voice coil (e.g., Figure 1 voice coil 114)) can cause the proximal portion 1444 to pull the distal portion 1446 (or vice versa), thereby potentially introducing stress in the first 1447a and second segments 1447b of the distal portion 1446. In examples where the compensating element 1490 (e.g., Figure 10 flat spring 346) is omitted, the stress may cause excessive strain, which may degrade performance and ultimately lead to failure. However, the compensating element 1490 can compensate for the force imbalance in the suspension system 1490 by changing its length, thereby advantageously reducing or at least substantially reducing the amount of stress in the distal portion 1446.

[0073] The patent applications WO2018 / 056814A1 (“LOUDSPEAKER UNIT WITH MULTIPLE DRIVE UNITS”), WO2019 / 086357A1 (“LOW PROFILE LOUDSPEAKER DEVICE”), WO2022 / 029005A1 (“SPEAKER UNIT”), and WO2022 / 096560A1 (“SPEAKER UNIT WITH A SPEAKER FRAME AND TWO OPPOSING SOUND PRODUCING MEMBRANES”) describe examples of speaker units that can be used with the suspension systems described herein, and each of these patent applications is incorporated herein by reference. Other forms of speakers can also be used with the techniques described herein.

[0074] III. Conclusion

[0075] The foregoing description has particularly disclosed various exemplary systems, methods, devices, and articles of manufacture, including components such as firmware and / or software executed on hardware. It should be understood that such examples are merely illustrative and should not be considered restrictive. For example, it is contemplated that any one or all of the firmware, hardware, and / or software aspects or components can be embodied solely in hardware, solely in software, solely in firmware, or in any combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware. Thus, the provided examples are not the only way to implement such systems, methods, devices, and / or articles of manufacture.

[0076] In addition, the references to "embodiments" in this document mean that the specific features, structures, or characteristics described in connection with the embodiments can be included in at least one exemplary embodiment of the invention. The phrase appears throughout the specification and does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment that is mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Thus, those skilled in the art will understand, either explicitly or implicitly, that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0077] This specification is presented primarily in terms of illustrative environments, systems, programs, steps, logic blocks, processes, and other symbolic representations that directly or indirectly resemble the operations of a data processing device connected to a network. These process descriptions and representations are typically used by those skilled in the art to most effectively convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that some embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without some of these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, processes, components, and circuitry have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the embodiments. Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure is defined by the appended claims rather than by the description of the foregoing embodiments.

[0078] When any additional claims are construed to cover a pure software and / or firmware implementation, at least one element in at least one example is hereby expressly defined to include a tangible, non-transitory medium storing the software and / or firmware, such as a memory, DVD, CD, Blu-ray, etc.

Claims

1. A loudspeaker, comprising: a frame; a diaphragm, the diaphragm being flexibly attached to the frame; a motor for driving the diaphragm, the motor comprising a magnetic element and a voice coil; and a suspension system, the suspension system comprising: a coil holder, the coil holder being coupled to the voice coil, a flat spring, the flat spring coupling the coil holder and the frame, and at least one of the following: a stiffening element associated with the flat spring; or a compensating element associated with the flat spring.

2. The loudspeaker according to claim 1, wherein: the suspension system comprises the stiffening element; the flat spring is attached to the coil holder at a first end and to the frame at a second end; and the stiffening element is positioned closer to the second end than to the first end.

3. The loudspeaker according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the flat spring is a first flat spring, and the suspension system comprises a second flat spring coupling the coil holder and the frame.

4. The loudspeaker according to claim 3, wherein the second flat spring is axially spaced from the first flat spring in the direction of movement of the voice coil.

5. The loudspeaker according to claim 4 in combination with at least claim 2, wherein the flat spring and the second flat spring are connected by the stiffening element.

6. The loudspeaker according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the suspension system comprises the compensating element associated with the flat spring; and the compensating element is positioned closer to the first end than to the second end.

7. The loudspeaker according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the second flat spring is radially offset from the flat spring about the axis of movement of the voice coil.

8. The loudspeaker according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flat spring defines at least one through hole.

9. The loudspeaker according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the coil holder is mechanically connected to the voice coil in at least one direction.

10. The loudspeaker according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the coil holder comprises a flange for engaging the voice coil.

11. The loudspeaker according to claim 10, the loudspeaker comprising at least two flanges, the voice coil being received between the at least two flanges.

12. The loudspeaker according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flat spring is coupled to the coil holder in a first plane, and the flat spring extends in a second plane different from the second plane.

13. The loudspeaker according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the suspension system comprises a portion for holding electrical leads.

14. The loudspeaker according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the suspension system is integrally formed with the frame.

15. The loudspeaker according to any one of the preceding claims, the loudspeaker comprising: another motor for driving the diaphragm, the another motor comprising another magnetic element and another voice coil; and another suspension system, the another suspension system comprising: another coil holder, the another coil holder being coupled to the another voice coil; Another flat spring that couples the other coil cage and the frame; and Another stiffening element mounted on the other flat spring.

16. The loudspeaker according to claim 15, further comprising at least one connecting member that connects the suspension system and the other suspension system, wherein at least one of the suspension system and the other suspension system includes a strengthening element coupled to the connecting member.

17. The loudspeaker according to claim 16, wherein the at least one connecting member is configured to transfer the movement of the voice coil and the other voice coil to the diaphragm.

18. The loudspeaker according to any one of the preceding claims, the loudspeaker comprising: An additional diaphragm flexibly attached to the frame coaxially with the diaphragm; An additional motor for driving the additional diaphragm, the additional motor including an additional magnetic element and an additional voice coil; And An additional suspension system including: an additional coil cage coupled to the additional voice coil; an additional flat spring that couples the additional coil cage and the frame; and an additional stiffening element mounted on the additional flat spring.

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