Composition, audio device, connector, and method of manufacturing connector

Abstract

The present invention provides a composition for application to a connector in an audio circuit, the composition comprising carbon nanotubes, a mineral component, and a metal component. The invention also relates to an audio device comprising the composition.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a composition for use in an audio device. The present invention also relates to a connector for use in an audio device comprising the new composition and a method of manufacturing the connector. Embodiments of the present invention relate to a composition for use in a connector applied in an audio circuit. In embodiments, the present invention also relates to an audio device. BACKGROUND

[0002] The expression "audio circuit" as used herein refers to an electrical or electronic drive circuit for generating electrical signals which are in turn the input to an audio device such as a loudspeaker, headphones, amplifier, etc.

[0003] The reproduction or amplification of sound is an important technology which improves the quality of life and is essential for the functioning of the modern world. There are many well-known technologies for the reproduction of sound. These include, for example, loudspeakers, smart speakers, headphones, earphones, microphones, instrument cables, audio cables and adapters which can be connected to any of the listed items.

[0004] Each item is capable of producing sound in the case of a loudspeaker or headphones or by transmitting electrical signals to convey sound, thus enabling the devices to reproduce sound. For example, audio cables and adapters can be used to plug into a device to enable communication and sound production from, say, a musical instrument such as an electric guitar to an amplifier.

[0005] The reproduction of sound signals which are then perceived and experienced by a user is a well-known underlying technology. In the field of sound reproduction, examples of known technologies which can be combined with or used as part of a connector or cable include EP2716796, US2020099147, GB579360, GB2351616, CN214428800, CN217387609 and US5158465.

[0006] There is a need for an improved method and system for reproducing sound. SUMMARY

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a composition for use in a connector applied in an audio circuit, the composition comprising carbon nanotubes, a mineral component and a metal component.

[0008] A composition is provided for application and use in audio circuits. The composition comprises three components in the form of carbon nanotubes, a mineral component and a metal component. Typically, the composition can be provided in the form of a paste in a mixture with a solvent or liquid base such as water, preferably the liquid base is deionised water. In use, the composition is applied to a point or area within the audio circuit, such as the input point of the circuit, i.e. the point or contact at which the input line can physically connect to an output device such as a loudspeaker.

[0009] The applicant has recognised that the application of a specified composition to a point or area within an audio circuit has a surprising and beneficial effect on the sound produced by the audio circuit.

[0010] In embodiments, the mineral is selected from quartz, sapphire, amethyst, moonstone, kyanite and jade.

[0011] In embodiments, the metal is aluminium. The composition comprises a metal which can be aluminium or indeed any other metal. Aluminium is advantageous in that it is readily available and relatively low cost.

[0012] In embodiments, the composition is provided in the form of a paste.

[0013] In embodiments, the paste has a liquid base in which the carbon nanotubes, mineral component and metal component are provided.

[0014] In embodiments, the liquid base is deionised water.

[0015] In embodiments, the metal is selected from gold (Au), silver (Ag) and copper (Cu).

[0016] In embodiments, the carbon nanotubes, mineral component and metal component are provided in a ratio of 2:1:1 by weight. Preferably, the composition comprises the specified components (carbon nanotubes, mineral component and metal component) in the specified ratio by weight. The preferred weight ratio is 2:1:1, although other alternative ratios are also preferred. In an alternative, the ratio is 3:2:2.

[0017] The ratio or amount of the composition used per application can vary depending on the use. For example, Figure 9 A range of weights per application is shown, which varies depending on the system or device used in the application. For example, it is preferred that when used in a headphone, the weight of carbon nanotubes is between 0.01 g and 0.03 g per application, the weight of mineral is between 0.007 g and 0.013 g per application and the weight of metal is between 0.007 g and 0.013 g per application. In this context, it will be understood that "per application" refers to the amount of material applied to the contact or area in a particular use.

[0018] In embodiments, the composition is applied to an audio main board, wherein carbon nanotubes, mineral components and metal components are applied.

[0019] According to a second aspect of the present application, there is provided a connector for an audio circuit, the connector having two or more contacts for receiving an electrical audio drive signal, the contacts being provided with a composition according to the first aspect of the present application.

[0020] According to a third aspect of the present application, there is provided an audio device, the audio device comprising an input contact arranged to receive an input electrical signal over a wired connection and to process the input electrical signal to generate an audio output, wherein the input contact is arranged to be physically connected to an input cable in use, the input contact being provided with a composition according to the first aspect of the present application.

[0021] According to a fourth aspect of the present application, there is provided a method of manufacturing a connector for an audio circuit, the method comprising applying a composition according to the first aspect of the present application to a connector having two or more contacts for receiving an electrical audio drive signal. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0022] Embodiments of the present application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a view of a pair of earbud headphones with the housing backing removed; Figure 2 is a schematic view of an earbud from an alternative perspective; Figure 3 is a view of a micro speaker with the housing removed; Figure 4 is a schematic view of an audio jack with the housing removed; Figure 5 is a view of a speaker cone with electrical contacts at the rear; Figure 6 is a schematic view of the back of a female XLR socket; Figure 7 is a view of the overall layout of speaker and headphone circuitry including associated controls; Figure 8 and Figure 9 is a table showing exemplary composition ingredients. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Figure 1A schematic view of a pair of headphones is shown, with the rear housings removed. The headphones 2 comprise left and right micro-speakers, which as is well known, are positioned in use within the user's ears.

[0024] With reference to the drawings, the headphones can be a pair of conventional headphones in terms of the components. Accordingly, a detailed description of the headphones functionality will not be provided herein. However, with reference to the figure, it can be seen that the contacts 4 and 6 through which input or drive signals for the headphones can be received. Each of the left and right headphones of the pair of headphones comprises two contacts 4 and 6 respectively.

[0025] The contacts 4 and 6 are connection points to which an input cable (not shown) is typically soldered. The input cable can typically be from a music player or a processor within a music player. The music player can be any known player, such as for example an MP3 player or a mobile phone having music playing functionality.

[0026] The composition, which will be described in detail below, is applied to the contacts 4 and 6, which has the technical effect of significantly improving the sound produced by the device itself. In one example, the connectors 4 and 6 can be coupled to a cable, which itself provides an electrical signal stream to drive the audio signals from the speakers within the headphones. However, the contacts 4 and 6 can also simply be connected to an output from a processor, which itself is arranged to receive audio electronic signals by wireless technology such as Bluetooth.

[0027] As will be explained below, the output of the sound itself has been tested by regular users, including musicians, music producers, disc jockeys (DJs) and professional studio mixers. The technology is applicable to a wide range of headphones, including over-ear, in-ear, earbud, Bluetooth and wired headphones, as well as a wide range of speakers, instrument cables and connectors, which will be described in more detail below.

[0028] The material arranged to be applied on the contacts 4 and 6 is a combination or composition consisting of at least three components, namely: a metal component, a stone or mineral component, and a compound comprising carbon nanotubes. In other words, the material or composition for application to the connectors in the audio circuit comprises carbon nanotubes, a mineral and a metal.

[0029] The applicant has demonstrated that the combination of carbon nanotubes with the other ingredients in the composition improves the quality of the sound produced by the sound producing device when the composition is applied to a component or connector in the electronic chain producing the sound.

[0030] Examples of possible compositions will be given and described in detail below. Further examples of use of the composition will now be provided.

[0031] Referring Figure 2 , an example of the earbud circuitry (circuitry) of Figure 1 is shown, which is arranged within the housing of the earbud. The housing 8 has a conventional shape, and it can be seen that known circuitry 10 is provided within the housing. A cover 12 is shown removed from one of the earbuds, revealing functional components, which will be described in detail later.

[0032] Contact points 4 and 6 are provided, on which a module or layer of the composition described above has been arranged. In other words, a composition comprising carbon nanotubes, minerals and metals is provided. Each application of the composition, i.e. the composition applied to each of the contact points 4 and 6, comprises defined amounts of the various ingredients. Typically, the composition is formed as a paste with a base solvent solution. The paste is applied to the area of interest, and subsequently, once dried, leaves a solid residue of the composition described above.

[0033] Preferably, the carbon nanotubes have a length of between 5 microns and 20 microns, and a cross-sectional diameter of between 1 nm and 3 nm. Preferably, the nanotubes have a cross-sectional diameter of about 2 nm.

[0034] Figure 3 A further stripped back example of a set of headphones is shown. In this example, the sound generating components 14 can be seen, as well as the circuitry 16 provided on the rear of the sound generating components 14.

[0035] A cable 18 is shown, which carries electronic drive signals from a processor (not shown). Contact points 20 and 22 are arranged with a layer of the composition described above provided thereon. The end of the cable 18 is then typically soldered to the composition itself.

[0036] Figure 4 An example of an alternative use of the current technology is shown, as part of a jack connector 24. Thus, in this example, the jack connector can be used to couple electronic signals to a set of headphones (not shown).

[0037] The example shown here is a conventional TRS type male audio jack, comprising a tip 26, a ring 28 and a sleeve 30. Input terminals 32, 34 and 36 are provided for each of the TRS components, respectively.

[0038] A strain relief clip 38 is provided, but is not relevant to the innovation of the current example.

[0039] Tip 26 and ring 28 are used to provide or receive signals for sound communication. In this example, input terminals 32 and 34 of the jack 24 are provided with a layer or application of the composition described above in areas 40 and 42. Again, as in the example described above, the composition can be applied with a solvent base, which then dries, leaving a residual layer of solid material.

[0040] In another example, a jack connector of appropriate size, such as a guitar jack, can be connected to a lead to couple electronic drive signals from a guitar pickup to a guitar amplifier.

[0041] Figure 5 An example of a speaker 44 is shown with electrical input terminals 46 and 48. In use, they are typically connected to a cable or connector to provide electrical signals to drive the speaker 44 and generate sound. The speaker has a speaker cone 45, which is arranged to oscillate and generate and transmit sound, as is well known. As in the previous examples, it is contemplated that a layer of the composition is applied to the connector 46 and 48 to improve the sound quality generated by the speaker cone 45 of the speaker 44.

[0042] Figure 6 The back of a male XLR connector 50 and a female XLR connector 52 are shown, respectively. As is well known, XLR connectors are used for various audio purposes, including microphones and speakers. XLR connectors are typically provided with three connecting (input / output) pins, although models with different numbers of pins are also available.

[0043] In Figure 6 The example shown, with reference to the male connector 50, shows three connection points. They are a shield / ground, a positive connection point, and a negative connection point. In one example, the composition described above is applied to the positive and negative connection points in a similar manner as described above with respect to the jack and as shown in Figure 5 The composition can be provided on any or all of the connection points (1-3) of the connector 50.

[0044] The example of the female XLR connector 52 is also typically provided with a similar arrangement, which is also shown in Figure 6 As with the male XLR described above, the composition can be provided on any or all of the connection points (1-3) of the connector 52.

[0045] Figure 7 A schematic layout is shown that includes a control PCB 54 connected to a speaker 56. The PCB 54 has an input 58 and an output 60. The input 58 is coupled to a drive circuit 62, which also has a power driver 64 without an output.

[0046] It will be appreciated that in use, signals are typically provided to the input 58 from the drive circuit 62. After processing in an appropriate manner on the PCB, outputs are provided from the output connectors 60 to the loudspeakers 56.

[0047] The composition described herein is typically applied to the audio signal outputs 66 on the connectors 58 and 60 and also to the drive circuit 62 in the same manner as described above.

[0048] This schematic arrangement can be used for any of the components shown and described herein.

[0049] The composition itself will now be described in more detail. The composition is preferably provided in the form of a paste which can be applied to the connection points on the circuit to provide the audio drive signals or to the input of the audio device as described above.

[0050] Figure 8 is a table showing exemplary amounts of the individual components in the composition to be applied in the different applications listed. For a motherboard, for example for a motherboard as shown in component 54 in Figure 7 Typically for each application of the composition, the components are provided in the following amounts: 0.02 g carbon nanotubes, 0.01 g mineral (such as ground quartz, ground sapphire or ground kyanite) and 0.01 g aluminium for a motherboard, for example for a motherboard as shown in component 54 in Figure 8 It will be appreciated that the amounts specified are provided in the form of a paste combined with a liquid matrix or solvent such as deionised water. Once in place, a lacquer or fixative is preferably applied to permanently fix the applied composition in the desired location as known to the person skilled in the art.

[0051] In one example, a UV-curing lacquer or resin is used, the UV-curing lacquer or resin being applied as a layer over or on top of the composition and then hardened or cured using UV radiation. The lacquer preferably extends beyond the coverage of the composition so as to act as an anchor for the surface on which the composition and lacquer are disposed.

[0052] Each application is applied in terms of the mass of the components. The thickness or two-dimensional distribution of the applied amount of the composition will vary from use to use. If there is a large area available, then a thinner layer can be applied whereas if the surface area is limited, then the thickness of the application will be higher. In other words, it is important that for each application on the audio motherboard, the composition will preferably comprise 0.02 g carbon nanotubes, 0.01 g mineral (such as ground quartz, sapphire or kyanite) and 0.01 g aluminium.

[0053] Applicant has demonstrated that a combination of carbon nanotubes, metal such as aluminium and a mineral such as ground quartz or sapphire improves the sound field generated by the associated equipment. The addition of quartz or sapphire in the composition improves the clarity of the sound. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated by experiment that it also increases and improves the sound localization in azimuth and zenith angles. Other suitable metals and minerals or stones can be used in the composition. Examples of suitable metals include gold (Au), silver (Ag) and copper (Cu) but other metals can also be used. Examples of minerals or stones that can be used include amethyst, moonstone and jade.

[0054] Mixtures of two or more metals and / or two or more minerals can also be used in the composition. It has been demonstrated that different ingredients can have different effects on the final sound produced by the audio equipment. For example, amethyst flattens the low and high frequency components of the sound signal. This has benefits for use in the loudspeaker market. If a different mineral component such as sapphire or quartz is used in the connector, the sound produced can therefore be changed.

[0055] The mineral component can be selected or varied depending on the application, applicant has demonstrated that quartz affects low and mid range frequencies and sapphire affects mid and high range frequencies. Kyanite enhances the spatial effect making it wider and more immersive. Preferably, the mineral component is a mixture of quartz and sapphire such that the total amount applied is as shown in the table. The ratio of quartz to sapphire in the mineral component of the composition can be 20:80, 30:70, 40:60 or 50:50 (or vice versa).

[0056] Figure 9 A further example is shown in which the preferred ranges of different material amounts are indicated as a1 to a3 depending on the desired application, the amounts of the ingredients in the composition are 0.01 g to 0.03 g carbon nanotubes, 0.007 g to 0.013 g mineral such as quartz or sapphire and 0.007 g to 0.013 g metal such as aluminium. Preferably, the materials are formed into a mixture or paste with a liquid matrix such as a solvent, which can be any suitable solvent or liquid including distilled and deionised water. When mixed with a liquid matrix or solvent such as deionised water, a paste is formed which can be applied to the area of interest on the earphone, i.e. the contact of the input cable.

[0057] The mixture can be applied manually, for example using an applicator such as a brush, or preferably the composition such as a paste or slurry can be applied to the area of interest in any known way during the manufacturing process. In other words, the application of the composition can be printed or applied by using known masking techniques.

[0058] It is important that the composition containing the specified amount of ingredients is applied to each relevant contact point.

[0059] The current method and apparatus ensures that an extremely realistic reproduction is achieved. The technology ensures that the sound of each instrument in a musical is clearly audible. Furthermore, the acoustics of the environment can now be experienced more accurately. In effect, it makes the listener feel as though they are part of the musical performance, not just an observer. Additional applications include speakers and audio systems within mobile phones, televisions and microphones.

[0060] When the composition is applied in the manner described above, the composition has an effect on the resistance and resistivity of the connection and, as will be appreciated, this improves the sound quality from the audio equipment.

[0061] The low cost of producing the composition is a significant advantage. The use of the composition described herein is low cost and effective by the standards of other technologies sometimes used to improve the sound quality of audio equipment.

[0062] The use of the composition reduces the input resistance of the audio circuitry, whether it is in the speaker, cable or connector.

[0063] The technology described herein has been tested on numerous audio equipment, as will be described hereinafter. The examples to be described include the Yamaha HS5 monitor speakers and a number of headphones. The test panel consisted of professional sound engineers, musicians, audiophiles, music lovers, DJs and professional music producers.

[0064] The composition can be applied to any audio equipment as described herein. Examples include speakers, sound bars, headphones, earphones, amplifiers, audio mixers, microphones, mobile phones, televisions, musical instruments, all audio cables (XLR, Jack, Speak-On, RCA etc).

[0065] The tests carried out on the equipment have shown that the input resistance / impedance, azimuth and zenith, static and moving sound (distance and velocity) and dynamic range of the equipment are affected by the use of the composition in the manner described herein.

[0066] When used on the Yamaha HS5 speakers, which have been modified in the manner described herein, the effect is to produce sound that is experienced and perceived as having greater clarity and better separation of the lead vocal, background vocals and instruments when used with music having these constituent elements, better immersion and spatial soundstage and an effect on the user such that the output origin is no longer discernible.

[0067] Furthermore, depending on the speaker setup, the experience of the sound is different. Specifically, if the speakers are positioned, for example, 1.5 to 2 meters from the wall, the listening experience varies depending on the position of the listener as follows: In front of and in the middle of the speakers; Behind and in the middle of the speakers; In the middle of the speakers and between the speakers.

[0068] As the sound field fills the space at the back, front and above the speakers, the output origin is no longer distinguishable, bringing new depth, spatial and separation dimensions to the stereo sound field.

[0069] The speakers with this component were tested outdoors. The speakers were tested in a garden with a swimming pool and on an open field.

[0070] Generally, the sound produced is experienced and perceived as being captured / projected above the speakers, with greater clarity, better separation of the lead vocal, background vocals and instruments, creating an immersive spatial sound field, with no loss of musical quality compared to the indoor experience. The optimal listening position for the listener is identified as being in front of the speakers.

[0071] Furthermore, when the user is positioned behind the speakers, the sound is experienced as originally played from a position 3 to 4 meters away from the front of the speakers.

[0072] Several different headphones were tested, including over-ear headphones, in-ear headphones, etc.

[0073] The four exemplary devices tested are as follows: British Airways free in-ear headphones for use during flights (wired), Peavey headphones (wired), MPOW 18 headphones (wired), Vivian Infinity GT 1 headphones (Bluetooth).

[0074] Generally, the sound produced is experienced and perceived as having greater clarity, better separation of the lead vocal, background vocals and instruments, more immersive, with improved spatial sound field.

[0075] For the speakers discussed above, such as the Yamaha HS5 speakers, when using the unmodified connector, the sound signature from the speakers is 40% to 50%. When using the improved cable in the setup, the "sound signature" increases to 50% to 65%. In addition to the improved cable, adding an improved XLR connector to the output increases the sound signature to 65% to 75%.

[0076] If the improved XLR connector is used with a non-improved speaker, the input impedance of the speaker will be reduced by more than 50% compared to using a non-improved XLR connector.

[0077] If the improved XLR connector is used with a non-improved cable, the impedance of the speaker will likewise be reduced by more than 50% compared to using a non-improved XLR connector.

[0078] Embodiments of the application have been described with particular reference to the examples illustrated. However, it will be appreciated that variations and modifications can be made to the examples described within the scope of the present application.

Claims

1. A composition for use in a connector in an audio circuit, the composition comprising: Carbon nanotubes; Mineral components; and Metallic components.

2. The composition according to claim 1, wherein, The minerals are selected from quartz, sapphire, amethyst, moonstone, kyanite, and jade.

3. The composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The metal is aluminum.

4. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The composition is provided in the form of a paste.

5. The composition according to any one of claims 4, wherein, The paste has a liquid matrix in which the carbon nanotubes, the mineral components, and the metal components are provided.

6. The composition according to any one of claims 4, wherein, The liquid matrix is ​​deionized water.

7. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The metal is selected from gold (Au), silver (Ag) and copper (Cu).

8. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The carbon nanotubes, the mineral components, and the metal components are provided in a weight ratio of 2:1:

1.

9. The composition according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the composition is applied to an audio motherboard, and the carbon nanotubes, the mineral component, and the metal component are applied in the application.

10. A connector for an audio circuit, the connector having two or more contacts for receiving electronic audio drive signals, the contacts being provided with the composition according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. An audio device, the audio device comprising an input contact arranged to receive an input electrical signal via a wired connection and to process the input electrical signal to generate an audio output, wherein, The input contact is arranged to be physically connected to the input cable during use, and the input contact is provided with the composition according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

12. The audio device according to claim 11, wherein, The audio device is selected from speakers, headphones, amplifiers, over-ear headphones, and in-ear headphones.

13. A method of manufacturing a connector for an audio circuit, the method comprising applying a composition according to any one of claims 1 to 9 to a connector having two or more contacts for receiving electronic audio drive signals.

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