Audiovisual system with magnetically attachable and rotatably adjustable audio devices

Abstract

An audiovisual system includes a video display and a soundbar connected to an upper or lower surface of the video display. The soundbar or portions thereof can be rotated to change the angle between the center axis of the speaker drivers in the soundbar and the horizontal plane, allowing the orientation of the speaker drivers relative to the viewer / listener to be adjusted according to the content being played by the speaker drivers. Each speaker can be supported by an audio mounting system. A motor on the soundbar drives a pinion gear that engages a rack connected to a panel of the video display, causing the panel connected to the soundbar to rotate about a hinge axis. In some embodiments, the soundbar is composed of a series of speaker segments, each of which can be rotated relative to one another, and in certain variations, the speaker drivers can be rotated relative to the speaker housings in which they reside.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application generally relates to the secure and convenient mounting of certain consumer electronic devices (e.g., soundbars) onto other devices (e.g., flat-screen TVs), making these electronic devices easy to install and their respective built-in speakers rotatable. Background Technology

[0002] A smart TV is a television connected to the internet with a built-in microprocessor unit that offers a range of online functions (such as accessing on-demand content via apps built into the smart TV's microprocessor unit, which can access streaming services on the internet) and the ability to connect other wireless devices. However, due to the thin front and back dimensions of flat-screen TVs, they typically lack high-performance built-in audio speakers. Therefore, standalone speaker systems (often called "soundbars") have become popular accessories for enhancing the audio output of televisions.

[0003] These soundbars are typically installed below or above the main unit of the flat-screen TV after the TV wall mount is complete; brackets and screws are usually used to secure the soundbar. Some manufacturers offer easy-to-install soundbars that connect to their brand's smart TVs (usually below) without tools. However, the selection of soundbar models is limited, and this installation method is only compatible with products from that manufacturer. If a third-party brand soundbar is required, the tools and skills needed for installation are not available to all potential users, and the semi-permanent mounting of additional electronics to an interior wall is generally not what the average homeowner wants, and it's not even an option for renters.

[0004] Alternatively, a soundbar can be placed on a table in front of the television, which is particularly suitable for homes equipped with entertainment systems and video game consoles. While this placement is simple to install—just placing the soundbar directly on the table—viewers sitting in front of the television often block the soundbar, resulting in poor sound quality for other viewers. Furthermore, regardless of seating arrangements, the audio quality of surround sound programs is often affected by tabletop placement.

[0005] There is a need for a soundbar that can be easily installed on and removed from a smart TV or other video display without the need for mechanical fasteners. Furthermore, it is desirable to automatically rotate some or all of the soundbar's internal speakers. This would improve the ability to play different audio streams such as movies, TV shows, and sporting events through speakers facing different directions, thereby altering the spatial distribution of sound directed towards the viewer / listener and their surroundings. Therefore, an audio mounting system capable of addressing these issues is required. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to a first aspect of this application, an audiovisual system is provided, including a video display with a video display housing, wherein the video display housing has an upper surface and a lower surface spaced apart along the height axis of the video display. The audiovisual system also includes an audio system comprising a loudspeaker, the loudspeaker having at least one loudspeaker driver included in a loudspeaker housing. The loudspeaker housing has a lower surface, and the at least one loudspeaker driver has a central axis, wherein the lower surface of the loudspeaker housing is magnetically attached to the upper surface of the video display such that the central axis forms a non-orthogonal angle with a horizontal plane.

[0007] According to a second aspect of this application, an audiovisual system is provided, including a video display having an upper surface and a lower surface, and an adjustable speaker mounting system magnetically attached to a selected surface of the video display, the selected surface of the video display being selected from the upper surface and the lower surface of the video display, the adjustable speaker mounting system having a speaker engagement support rotatable relative to the selected surface of the video display.

[0008] According to a third aspect of this application, a loudspeaker system is provided, including an audio system having a loudspeaker comprising at least one loudspeaker driver disposed within a loudspeaker housing. An adjustable loudspeaker mounting system is provided, including a first member hinged to a second member such that the first member and the second member are rotatable relative to each other about a rotation axis. A loudspeaker housing is detachably attached to the first member such that, when the loudspeaker housing is attached to the first member, the angle between the central axis of at least one loudspeaker driver and a plane parallel to the second member can be adjusted by rotating the first member relative to the second member.

[0009] According to a fourth aspect of this application, a method for playing audiovisual content is provided. The method includes providing a soundbar including a plurality of speakers. Each speaker includes at least one speaker driver disposed in its respective speaker housing, wherein the soundbar is attached to a surface selected from an upper surface or a lower surface of a video display. The method includes transmitting different audio content to each of the plurality of speakers. The method further includes automatically rotating a first speaker driver among the plurality of speaker drivers relative to a corresponding speaker housing on which the first speaker driver is disposed, and automatically rotating a second speaker driver among the plurality of speaker drivers relative to the first speaker driver based on audio content received by the first speaker driver and the second speaker driver. Attached Figure Description

[0010] The features, embodiments, and advantages of this application can be better understood by reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings; Figure 1A-Figure 1BThis is a side elevation view of an audiovisual system, which includes a soundbar magnetically attached to the upper surface of a video display. Figure 2A This is a schematic view showing from Figure 1A-Figure 1B The path of sound waves transmitted from the audiovisual system to the viewer / listener; Figure 2B This is a schematic view showing the sound wave path transmitted from a soundbar magnetically attached to the lower surface of a video display to the viewer / listener; Figures 3A-3B The images show television sets with downward and backward tilted support shelves located below the video display screen, respectively. The images also show the television sets with and without a soundbar installed.

[0011] Figure 4 This is a front view of a three-segment soundbar connected to an adjustable speaker mounting system that can be attached to the upper surface of a video display, wherein the speaker segments can rotate independently relative to the horizontal plane and to each other. Figures 5A-5C An audiovisual system is shown, wherein Figure 4 Multi-segment soundbar connected to Figure 1A-Figure 1B The video display shows three different rotation directions of the end speaker segment relative to the horizontal plane. Figure 6 yes Figure 4 A close-up side view of the end speaker section of the audio system connected to the video display shows the magnetic connection between the soundbar and the upper surface of the television, as well as an adjustable speaker mounting system including a pair of hinged panels for rotating the soundbar relative to the horizontal plane. Figure 7 This is a front view of a five-segment soundbar connected to an adjustable speaker mounting system that can be connected to the upper surface of a video display, wherein the soundbar segments can rotate independently of each other relative to the horizontal plane, and the speaker drivers can rotate relative to their respective speaker housings. Figure 8 It shows having Figure 7 A perspective view of an audiovisual system of a five-segment soundbar, wherein the speaker segments are in different rotational positions relative to each other and relative to the horizontal plane, and the end speaker segment drivers rotate relative to a plane defined by the thickness and height axes of the segment; Figures 9A-9B It shows Figure 7 A top view of the speaker sections of an audio system, where different sections of the soundbar are located... Figure 7 The direction of rotation, and wherein certain loudspeaker drivers rotate about an axis parallel to the height axis of their respective loudspeaker segments; and Figures 10A-10E It shows Figures 9A-9B The corresponding cross-sectional view is shown in the image, in which a multi-segment soundbar is mounted on a video display. Detailed Implementation

[0012] This article describes an audiovisual system in which speakers are attached to a video display via magnetic connections. In the same or other examples, the speakers constitute a soundbar and include speaker drivers rotatable about one or more axes. Multiple speakers may also be placed adjacent to each other to form a multi-segment soundbar, where each segment can rotate relative to each other. In some examples, the rotation is driven by a motor and can be performed in response to the transmission of specific audio content on a channel to which the speaker segments are operated. For example, audio signals from an audiovisual content source can be decoded to determine the directional angle of the speakers operated on that channel.

[0013] In some examples, the magnetic bar speaker connection system described herein provides a safe and tool-free installation process.

[0014] refer to Figures 1A-2A An audiovisual system 12 is shown, including a video display 20 and an audio system 13. The audio system 13 includes speakers 30, or in other examples, the audio system includes a soundbar with multiple speakers. The video display 20 includes a display surface 22, which is the surface that displays video images to a viewer, and also includes a back surface 24 along the thickness axis t of the display. d The upper surface 26 of the video display is spaced apart from the display surface 22. It extends along the display height axis h. d It is spaced apart from the lower surface 27 of the video display. The lower surface 27 of the video display is connected to the base 29, such that the lower surface 27 of the video display is aligned along the height axis h. d Located between the base 29 and the upper surface 26 of the video display. (Example) Figure 3A As shown in Figure B, the display 20 also has a width axis w. d The width, the axis of which is perpendicular to the thickness axis t d And the height axis.

[0015] Refer again Figure 1A The loudspeaker 30 includes a loudspeaker driver 32 and may include additional drivers. The loudspeaker 30 has a thickness axis t. s Height axis h s and length axis l s (Enter the page vertically, in) Figure 1A(Not shown in the image). For any particular loudspeaker or loudspeaker segment, its axis is defined relative to the specific dimensions of the loudspeaker, and therefore is not fixed in space, but rather fixed relative to those dimensions on the loudspeaker or loudspeaker segment, even if the loudspeaker or loudspeaker segment is rotated, translated, etc. The loudspeaker driver 32 has a central axis M, in Figure 1A In this case, the central axis is parallel to the speaker thickness axis t. s .exist Figures 1A-2A In this configuration, the loudspeaker 30 is positioned such that the sound propagation direction along the driver's central axis M is upward toward the ceiling relative to a horizontal plane P intersecting the central axis of the loudspeaker housing 34. As further explained below, the tilt angle θ may be referred to as the "upward tilt angle," and is preferably not less than 30 degrees, more preferably not less than 40 degrees, and even more preferably not less than 45 degrees upward relative to the horizontal plane P. Figures 1A-2A In the middle, the upward elevation angle θ is approximately 45 degrees or π / 4 radians.

[0016] The speaker 30 includes a housing 34 that houses a speaker driver 32. The housing 34 includes a lower surface 31 that is magnetically attached to an upper speaker engagement surface 28 of the video display 20. The upper speaker engagement surface 28 of the display 20 is along the height axis h of the video display. d Located below the upper surface 26 of the video display, and along the thickness axis t d It tilts upwards while extending away from the back surface 24 and toward the display surface 22.

[0017] The magnetic connection between the lower surface 31 of the speaker housing and the upper speaker mating surface 28 of the video display 20 can be configured in a variety of different ways. Figure 1A In one embodiment, magnet 33 is physically attached (e.g., by glue or fasteners) to the lower surface 31 of the speaker housing, and its magnetic polarity is opposite to that of the upper speaker mating surface 28 of the video display 20. In one variation, magnet 33 may be directly attached to the lower surface 31 of the speaker housing 30, or it may be embedded in a rubber layer attached to the lower surface 31 of the speaker housing 30, and the speaker mating surface 28 of the video display 20 may include a suitable magnetic metal with opposite polarity. In another variation, magnet 33 may be attached to the upper speaker mating surface 28 of the video display 20, or it may be embedded in a rubber layer attached to the upper speaker mating surface 28 of the video display 20, and the lower surface 31 of the speaker housing 34 may include a suitable magnetic metal with opposite polarity.

[0018] As described above, the orientation of the loudspeaker 30 is such that its central axis M and thickness axis t s It forms an upward angle θ relative to the horizontal plane P. For example... Figure 2AAs shown, this allows the speaker 30 to project sound upwards onto the ceiling, causing sound waves to reflect off the ceiling towards the viewer / listener, thus making the sound appear from the viewer / listener's perspective as if it were emanating from a speaker mounted on the ceiling. Figure 2A As shown, in one usage scenario, the video display 20 is wall-mounted, and along the thickness axis t of the video display... d The orientation of the video display 20 relative to the viewer / listener, and the value and orientation of the elevation angle θ of the speaker driver 32, should be such that the vertical component of the central axis M of the speaker driver 32 is perpendicular to the thickness axis t. d The direction is located at the position between the viewer / listener and the video display 20, intersecting with the ceiling. Figure 2A In a specific example, the speaker 30 is along the height axis h of the video display. d The direction is perpendicularly spaced above the viewer's / listener's head. When the speaker 30 is used to play up-firing audio content designed to sound as if it is emanating from above the viewer's / listener's head, Figure 2A The direction is particularly favorable.

[0019] One advantage of placing the speaker 30 at the top and rear of the video display 20 is that it is less likely to be blocked by viewers sitting in front of the display 20, thus providing clearer sound to a wider audience. This, in turn, results in more uniform and clearer sound diffusion throughout the room where the audiovisual system 12 is located. Furthermore, placing the speaker 30 in this position allows for more precise adjustment of the speaker angle for up-firing audio content, such as Dolby Atmos or similar surround sound effects.

[0020] exist Figure 2B In this configuration, the video monitor 20 is wall-mounted. In this case, the speaker 30 is positioned along the height axis h of the monitor. d Positioned below the video display 20, a speaker bracket 35 having a speaker engagement surface 37 (not shown) is attached to the lower surface 27 of the video display 20. The speaker engagement surface 37 may be magnetically attached to the upper surface of the speaker housing 34. In other examples, the "upper surface" of the speaker housing 34 is preferably... Figure 1A The lower surface 31 of the speaker 30 shown is the same surface, that is, in Figure 2B In the middle, speaker 30 is relative to Figure 2A It's upside down. In Figure 2B In the example, speaker 30 is along the thickness axis t of the video display. d The direction is spaced apart from the viewer / audience and along the height axis h of the video display 20. d The orientation is positioned below the viewer's / listener's ear. However, in Figure 2B In this configuration, the speaker 30 is mounted such that the central axis M of the driver 32 is not tilted upwards relative to the horizontal plane. Instead, the central axis M is approximately parallel to the horizontal plane (i.e., θ=0). Therefore, Figure 2B The orientation is not preferred for content emitted upwards. Figure 2B In the example, the magnetic force between the speaker 30 and the lower speaker mating surface 37 is preferably greater than that between the two surfaces. Figure 1A The magnetic force between the speaker 30 and the speaker mating surface 28, because Figure 2B The net weight on the middle speaker 30 will be greater than Figure 1A The net weight on the speaker 30 is due to the fact that, in the latter case, the speaker mating surface 28 will exert a force with a vertically upward component on the speaker 30.

[0021] Figures 3A-3B Another example of an audiovisual system is described. In this example, the video display 20 has an audio system support shelf 36 connected to a speaker engagement surface 28 (not shown) of the video display 20. The support shelf 36 includes a first panel 38 having an upper surface 51 and a rear support wall 58. Figure 3A An audiovisual system 12 is shown without the audio system 13 installed. Figure 3B In this configuration, the multi-segment soundbar 40 is attached to the support shelf 36, preferably by magnetic attraction. The multi-segment soundbar 40 includes three speaker segments 42a, 42b, and 42c, which are positioned along the width axis w of the video display 20. d Arrangement. (In reference) Figures 4-6 In a further described variant, segments 42a, 42b, and 42c can rotate relative to each other, and each speaker segment can be characterized by its own set of axes. One advantage of using both magnetic attraction and the support shelf 36 with support wall 58 is that the shelf 36 holds segments 42a-42c in an inclined position and supports them against gravity, while the magnetic attraction provided by appropriately sized and arranged magnets reduces the tendency of speaker segments 42a-42c to slide around on the upper surface 51 of the support shelf 36. Therefore, the combination of magnetic and physical / mechanical support enables speaker segments 42a-42c to be positioned more stably relative to the display 20.

[0022] In one example, the support shelf 36 is made of steel and attracts magnets embedded in the bottom surface of the housing of speaker segments 42a-42c. In other examples, the support shelf 36 is made of plastic or other non-magnetic material, but the polarity of the magnets embedded in the support shelf is opposite to the polarity of the magnets embedded in the bottom surface of the housing of speaker segments 42a-42c.

[0023] exist Figure 3BIn the middle, speaker segment 42c has a speaker thickness axis t sc Speaker height axis h sc and speaker length axis l sc The other speaker segments 42a and 42b each have their own corresponding axes, and... Figure 3B In the middle, the thickness axis t of each speaker segment sa t sb and t sc Parallel to each other, the height axis h of each speaker segment sa h sb and h sc Parallel to each other, the length axes l of each speaker segment sa l sb and l sc They are parallel to each other.

[0024] Speaker segments 42a-42c are configured to receive audio signals from a common source, but in some cases, they receive audio signals through a separate channel supported by the audio source (e.g., an amplifier that amplifies the audio signal received from a playback device, such as a CD player, tuner, DVD player, or smartphone). Each speaker segment 42a, 42b, and 42c includes its respective housing 45a, 45b, or 45c and can accommodate one or more speaker drivers. Figures 3A-3B (Not shown in the image). In Figure 3B In the middle, each speaker segment 42a-42c is oriented relative to the horizontal plane along the central axis of its respective speaker driver (one of which is in Figure 3B (As shown in the image) Projecting sound upwards, as about Figure 1A The discussion focuses on (i.e., θ is a positive value). This is relative to the surface of each speaker housing and the central axis M. a -M c The intersecting horizontal planes have an upward elevation angle θ of not less than about 30 degrees, preferably not less than about 40 degrees, and more preferably not less than about 45 degrees. The lower surfaces 41a-41c (only 41c is shown) of the speaker housings 45a-45c are magnetically attached to the upper surface 51 of the first panel 38 of the support shelf. The magnetic attachment can be as described above regarding... Figure 1A The lower surface 31 of the speaker housing 34 is configured as described in the magnetic attachment between it and the upper speaker mating surface 28 of the video display 20. Figure 3B In this case, the support shelf 36 can be attached to the upper surface 26 of the video display 20 by any suitable means (in Figures 3A-3B (not shown), for example, screws or other mechanical fasteners. Along the thickness axis t of the video display 20 d When the video display 20 extends from the back 24 to the front display surface 22, the first panel 38 supporting the shelf 36 tilts upward.

[0025] The rear support wall 58 is connected to the first panel 38, and extends along the thickness axis t of the video display. d It is spaced apart from the upper surface 26 of the video display 20 in the direction from the front display surface 22 toward the rear surface 24. Along the thickness axis t of the video display 20 from the connection point between the rear support wall 58 and the first panel 38. d Extending away from the video display 20, the rear support wall 58 tilts upward. Relative to the horizontal plane P tangent to the point where the first panel 38 and the rear support wall 58 connect, the first panel 38 tilts upward at a non-orthogonal angle α of not less than about 30 degrees, preferably not less than about 40 degrees, and more preferably not less than about 45 degrees. These angles are also the angles at which the speaker segments 42a, 42b, and 42c tilt upward relative to the horizontal plane. Both the first panel 38 and the rear support wall 58 exert an upward force in the vertical direction on the speaker segments 42a-42c, thereby supporting the multi-segment soundbar 40 against gravity.

[0026] exist Figures 3A-3B In one variant of the audiovisual system 12, each speaker segment 42a-42c of the soundbar 40 is preferably arranged around a width axis w parallel to the video display 20. d The rotation axis can be rotated manually or automatically to change the elevation angle of the corresponding speaker segments 42a-42c. According to a second variant, an adjustable speaker mounting system is provided, which is attached to a first panel 38 of a speaker support shelf 36 and includes a speaker engagement support that is rotatable relative to the upper surface 26 of the video display 20.

[0027] refer to Figures 4-6 , showed Figures 3A-3B The aforementioned variant of the audiovisual system 12. Figure 4 In the image, audio system 13 is shown in a front view. The audio system includes a three-segment soundbar 40 connected to an adjustable speaker mounting system 47. The soundbar 40 includes speaker segments 42a, 42b, and 42c. The adjustable speaker mounting system 47 includes a video display mounting support panel 53 connected to speaker mounting support panels 48a, 48b, and 48c. For example, each speaker mounting support panel is mechanically fastened to a corresponding speaker segment 42a, 42b, and 42c. Each of the speaker segments 42a-42c can be characterized by its respective length axis, height axis, and thickness axis. Speaker segment 42a has a length axis l. sa Height axis h sa and thickness axis t sa The loudspeaker segment 42b has a length axis l sb Height axis hsb and thickness axis t sb The loudspeaker segment 42c has a length axis l sc Height axis h sc and thickness axis t sc Even when the speaker segments rotate, these axes remain fixed relative to their respective speaker segments 42a-42c. Each speaker segment 42a-42c has a corresponding housing 45a, 45b, and 45c. Although in Figure 4 Not shown in the diagram, but speaker segment 42a includes a central axis M. a The speaker driver 46a and speaker segment 42b include two speakers, each having a speaker centerline M. b1 and M b2 The speaker drivers 46b1 and 46b2, and the speaker segment 42c including a central axis M c The speaker driver is 46c. The central axis M... a M b1 M b2 and M c All are perpendicular to the thickness axis t of the corresponding speaker segments 42a, 42b and 42c. sa t sb t sc .

[0028] like Figure 6 As best shown, the upper part of the video display 20 includes an upper surface 26 and a speaker mating surface 28, along the thickness axis t of the video display. d When extending from the front display surface 22 towards the rear surface 24, the speaker mating surface 28 slopes downward from the upper surface 26 and moves away from the upper surface 26. An adjustable speaker mounting system 47 is provided. Figure 4 and Figure 6 The adjustable speaker mounting system can be mounted to the speaker mating surface 28 of the video display 20, or, as shown, to a support shelf 36, which is mounted to the upper speaker mating surface 28. The adjustable speaker mounting system 47 is preferably magnetically attached to the upper surface 51 of the first panel 38 of the support shelf 36. Figure 4 As best shown, the adjustable speaker mounting system 47 includes a video display engagement support panel 53, which is located along the width axis of the video display 20. d Extending beneath each speaker segment 42a-42c, the video display coupling support panel 53 is a common support panel for all three segments 42a-42c. However, in another embodiment, each speaker segment may have its own video display coupling support. Figure 6In one example, magnet 54 is fixedly attached to the lower surface 57 of the video display engagement support panel 53 and has a polarity opposite to that of the first member 38 of the support shelf 36. In another embodiment, the lower surface 57 of the video display engagement support panel 53 is magnetic and has a polarity opposite to that of magnet 54, which is fixedly attached to the upper surface 51 of the first member 38 of the support shelf 36.

[0029] As described above, each speaker segment 42a-42c can rotate around a width axis w parallel to the video display 20. d The axis of rotation. Each speaker segment 42a-42c has a respective lower housing surface 41a-41c, which is attached to the upper surface 50a-50c of the corresponding speaker engagement support panel 48a-48c. The speaker engagement support panels 48a-48c are connected to the video display engagement support panel 53 via a common hinge 52 (or via their respective hinges in some embodiments). The hinge 52 is along the width axis w of the video display 20. d Having a certain length that defines the axis of rotation, each speaker segment 42a-42c can rotate about this axis of rotation to change the central axis M of its respective speaker driver 46a-46c. a M b1 M b2 M c The upward projection angle θ relative to the horizontal plane P (defined below). Hinge 52 along the height axis h of the video display. d Located at or approximately vertically above the upper surface 26 of the video display 20, and along the thickness axis t of the video display. d It is located between the upper surface 26 and the back surface 24 of the video display 20.

[0030] like Figure 5A and Figure 6 As shown, in the "starting" or non-rotating configuration, the orientation of speaker segment 42c is such that the central axis M of speaker driver 46c... c And the thickness axis t of speaker segment 42c sc A positive angle θ relative to the horizontal plane P c Orientation. Note that the horizontal plane P is not a fixed plane. Instead, it is located at position Q and aligned with the central axis M. c The intersecting planes, where the central axes intersect on the front surface outside the speaker housing 45c. It can also be characterized as a plane parallel to the ground that intersects the central axis on the front surface of the speaker housing. The angle θ defined by the horizontal plane P and the central axes of the speaker drivers 46a-46c can be called the "tilt angle". Since each speaker segment 42a-42c can rotate relative to the other speaker segments, each speaker segment will have its own tilt angle θ.a θ b or θ c For any given loudspeaker driver 46a-46c, a positive elevation angle θ represents the angle at which the driver's central axis forms upward from its intersection point Q with one of the loudspeaker housings 45a-45c relative to the horizontal plane P at the intersection point Q of the housing 45a-45c and the central axis M of the loudspeaker driver. This is in Figure 5A and Figure 6 The central axis M of the speaker driver 46c c and its intersection point Q with the front surface of the housing 45c c This has been explained. Therefore, for any given speaker driver 46a-46c, its corresponding elevation angle θ a θ b or θ c It will be formed by its central axis M a M b 1. M b2 M c With the corresponding horizontal plane P a P b P c The angle defined between them, the fixed position Q of the horizontal plane on the front surface of the speaker housing 45a-45c that houses the drivers 46a-46c having the axis. a Q b Q c The points intersect. When the speaker engagement support panels 48a-48c rotate about the rotation axis defined by hinge 42, the central axis M of each speaker driver 46a, 46b, 46c intersects. a M b M c The intersection Q between the corresponding speaker housings 45a-45c a Q b Or Q c It will move along the arc, causing the central axis M to... a M b Or M c The image is translated along the height and width axes of the video display 20 and rotated relative to the horizontal plane P to adjust the upward tilt angle θ of a specific center axis. a -θ c The value of .

[0031] like Figure 5A and Figure 6 As shown, the upward elevation angle θ cThe unrotated value is preferably at least about +30 degrees, more preferably at least about +40 degrees, and even more preferably at least about +45 degrees. In a preferred example, each speaker segment 42a-42c can rotate about the rotation axis defined by hinge 52 to a positive value of θ, which is less than θ. c The initial or non-rotated value, and can be rotated to a "negative pitch" angle, at which the corresponding actuators 46a-46c move along the central axis M. c Relative to the corresponding horizontal plane P c Sound is projected downwards. As previously mentioned, the speaker mounting support panels 48a-48c can be rotated manually or automatically. In the case of manual rotation, a known method is preferably provided in which the speaker mounting support panels 48a-48c are rotated in increments relative to the video display mounting support panel 53 so as to maintain the desired degree of rotation and allow the speaker mounting support panels 48a-48c to return to their initial or unrotated position.

[0032] refer to Figures 5A-5C The image shows the audiovisual system 12, in which... Figure 4 The audio system 13 is mounted on the video display 20. Therefore, the speaker segment support panels 48a-48c can rotate about the axis of rotation defined by the hinge 52. Figures 5A-5C Three different orientations of speaker segment 42c are shown. Figure 5A In the middle, speaker segment 42c is in its initial or non-rotated configuration, such as Figure 6 As shown. At this position, the elevation angle θ c It has a positive value. Figure 5B In the middle, the speaker segment 42c rotates about the hinge 52, causing the central axis of the speaker driver 46c ( Figure 5B (Not shown in the image) Basically parallel or parallel to the horizontal plane P. At this position, the upward elevation angle θ c The value is 0. Figure 5C In the middle, the speaker segment 42c rotates further, causing the central axis M of the driver 46c to... c Inclined below the horizontal plane P, i.e., upward tilt angle θ c It has negative values.

[0033] exist Figures 5A-5C In the middle, the configuration of the soundbar 40 and Figures 3A-3B The same applies to the adjustable loudspeaker mounting system 47, except that the adjustable loudspeaker mounting system 47 can achieve loudspeaker segment 42. a -42 c The automatic rotation. More specifically, the audio system 13 includes a plurality of first gears, each first gear corresponding to a corresponding one of the speaker segments 42a-42c. Figure 4The image shows a front view of the soundbar 40 mounted on the adjustable loudspeaker mounting system 47 (i.e., along each soundbar loudspeaker segment 42a, 42). b The corresponding thickness axis t of 42c a t b t c ).

[0034] Each first gear engages with a corresponding second gear corresponding to a specific soundbar segment 42a-42c. The second gear corresponding to a specific soundbar segment 42a-42c can be mounted on the corresponding soundbar segment housing 45a-45c, or on the corresponding speaker mounting support panel 48a-48c (on which the corresponding speaker segments 42a-42c are located). When one gear is driven, the engagement of both gears causes the corresponding speaker mounting support panel 48a-48c (and thus the attached speaker segments 42a-42c) to rotate about hinge 52, thereby causing the speaker drivers 46a-46c, along with their respective central axes M, to rotate. a -M c They rotate and translate together. Figures 5A-5C In the example, each speaker segment 42a-42c has an internal motor (not shown) operable to operably rotate a corresponding pinion 62a-62c. The speaker housings 45a-45c do not translate, but rotate only about an axis defined by hinge 52. The motor is operable to rotate parallel to the height h defined by the video display 20. d and thickness t d Rotate the corresponding pinions 62a-62c in the plane defined by the axis.

[0035] Each pinion 62a-62c meshes with a corresponding rack 60a-60c. The shape of the rack 60a-60c defines that when the pinion 62a-62c of the housing 45a-45c accommodating a specific speaker driver 46a-46c rotates to mesh with its corresponding rack 60a-60c, the central axis M of the speaker driver 46a-46c is... a M b M c The intersection Q between the corresponding speaker housings 45a-45c a Q b Q c The movement. In Figures 5A-5C In the racks 60a-60c, the pinions 62a-62c rotate and mesh with their respective racks 60a-60c, so that the central axis M... a M b M c and intersection point Q a Q b Qc It will move along an arc-shaped path. Racks 60a-60c move along the width axis w of the speaker segment. sa -w sc The cross-sectional profile for observation preferably defines an arc, the corresponding central angle of which is approximately 80 degrees to approximately 110 degrees, preferably approximately 85 degrees to approximately 105 degrees, and more preferably approximately 88 degrees to approximately 92 degrees. This engagement causes each pinion 62a-62c to move along all or part of the length of its corresponding rack 60a-60c. Each rack 60a-60c is connected to the video display engagement support panel 53 of the adjustable speaker mounting system 47. Each rack 60a-60c may pass through an opening in its corresponding speaker engagement support panel 48a-48c, or may move along the width axis w of the video display. d The speaker joint support panels 48a-48c are spaced apart. Since pinions 62a-62c are connected to their respective speaker segments 42a-42c, when pinions 62a-62c move along their respective racks 60a-60c, speaker segments 42a-42c will move along a path defined by the shape of the racks 60a-60c, and the connection between speaker segments 42a-42c and their respective speaker joint support panels 48a-48c will cause speaker joint support panels 48a-48c to rotate about a rotation axis defined by hinge 52. Similarly, with the speaker joint support members 42a-42c in a horizontal position ( Figure 5B As a zero reference plane, the speaker engagement support panels 48a-48c will rotate within an angle range of approximately -55 degrees to approximately +55 degrees, preferably approximately -50 degrees to approximately +50 degrees, and more preferably approximately -45 degrees to approximately +45 degrees.

[0036] In another embodiment, the motors of the pinions 62a-62c may be mounted on the corresponding speaker engagement support panels 48a-48c. In another alternative embodiment, each pinion may be mounted on the video display engagement support panel 53, and each rack 60a-60c may be mounted on the corresponding speaker housing 45a-45c or the corresponding speaker engagement support panel 48a-48c, and sized such that rotation of the pinions 62a-62c and engagement with the corresponding racks causes movement of the racks 60a-60c and the affected support panels 48a-48c relative to the video display engagement support panel 53.

[0037] In some implementations, the drivers 46a-46c of speaker segments 42a-42c are operatively connected to channels of an audio source. These channels may receive the same or different content, and the intended spatial orientation of the content may differ relative to the viewer / listener. In some examples, one of the channels may transmit sound intended to originate from above the viewer / listener's head. For example, a scene involving an airplane might include airplane sounds intended to make the viewer / listener perceive them as originating from above their head. Thus, in one example, the central speaker segment 42b may be maintained in its initial or neutral position, where the elevation angle θ is positive (e.g., ...). Figure 5A (As shown in section 42c of the soundbar) and this value causes the transmitted sound to reflect off the ceiling and downward toward the viewer / listener, as... Figure 2A As shown. Simultaneously, the end speaker segments 42a and 42c can be rotated to... Figure 5B The position shown in section 42c of the middle speaker (upward elevation angle θ) c (approximately zero) or Figure 5C The position shown (upward elevation angle θ) c (Negative value).

[0038] Based on certain audiovisual system examples described herein, a speaker orientation controller may be provided, which outputs orientation control signals to a motor (not shown) that controls the rotation of pinions 62a-62c. User controls may be provided, allowing the user to input the desired pitch angle θ for any speaker segment 42a-42c. a θ b θ c The controller sets the values ​​for the pitch angle θ, as well as the values ​​for any other parameters corresponding to the pitch angle θ, and can output control signals to rotate the corresponding pinion to the appropriate degree. Suitable motors include known servo motors and stepper motors. The degree of rotation of any pinion 62a-62c corresponding to the desired pitch angles θa, θb, θc will depend on the pinion diameter, the size of the pinion teeth, the size of the corresponding rack teeth 60a-60c, and the linear length and shape of the corresponding racks 60a-60c.

[0039] The user controller may be mounted on certain parts of the audiovisual system 12 and / or may include a remote control that transmits wireless control signals to an orientation controller operatively connected to a motor (not shown) of each speaker segment 42a-42c. Furthermore, the orientation controller may receive an orientation setpoint from another controller that determines the elevation angle θ based on content metadata associated with the audio signal and / or based on room geometry data regarding the room where the audiovisual system 12 is located. a θ b or θ cThe expected value. The audio source signal is encoded and decoded into an elevation angle θ that can be used to set or adjust the elevation angle of a specific speaker segment 42a-42c. a θ a θ a The specific channel content of the value, and related content on adjusting the degree of rotation of the speaker driver using a controller, is described in U.S. Patent 11,095,976, which has been assigned to the assignee of this application, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Therefore, in an exemplary embodiment relating to a program having up-firing audio content, speaker segments 42a-42c connected to the channel receiving such content will be held in an up-firing position, for example... Figure 5A The position shown, or maintained Figure 5A and Figure 5B Another upward tilt angle between the angles shown.

[0040] Speaker segments 42a-42c and adjustable speaker mounting system 47 may be provided together as an audiovisual system 12 including video display 20 (which may be attached or unattached). Alternatively, audio system 13 (including adjustable speaker mounting system 47 and speaker segments 42a-42c) may be provided as a separate unit or kit, which is then connected to the separately purchased video display 20.

[0041] refer to Figure 4 The image shows an audio system 13 including speaker segments 42a-42c attached to an adjustable speaker mounting system 47. Speaker segments 42a-42c may be provided with the adjustable speaker mounting system 47 in an unattached state and then subsequently attached to their respective speaker engagement support panels 48a-48c by screws or other mechanical fasteners. In one example, speaker segments 42a-42c are fabricated with their respective onboard motors (not shown) to rotate their respective pinions 62a-62c (…). Figure 4 (Not shown in the image). Magnet 54 (or multiple magnets) may be pre-attached to the video display engagement support panel 53, or provided unattached and subsequently attached to the upper speaker engagement surface 28 of the video display 20 or the lower surface 57 of the video display engagement support panel 53. In some examples, a support shelf 36 may also be provided and securely attached to the upper speaker engagement surface 28 by screws or other mechanical fasteners. In this case, magnet 54 (or multiple magnets) may be attached to the lower surface 57 of the video display engagement support panel 53 as described above.

[0042] Refer again Figures 4-5C If the support shelf 36 is not provided, the magnet 54 (or multiple magnets) must generate sufficient magnetic force to resist the audio system 13 along the height axis h of the video display. dDirectional gravity. In one example, the soundbar 40 includes three speaker segments 42a-42c, with a total weight of approximately 10 pounds (4.54 kg). Each speaker segment 42a-42c has four magnets with sides of 1 inch (2.54 cm), and each magnet has a magnetic field of approximately 2060 gauss. Therefore, for each soundbar segment 42a-42c, the magnetic force provided by the magnets associated with that segment, calculated based on the weight of the speaker segment 42a-42c, is not less than 750 gauss / pound, preferably not less than 800 gauss / pound, and more preferably not less than 820 gauss / pound. If the support shelf 36 is provided, the magnetic field strength required per unit weight of the audio system 13 is approximately half that without the support shelf. Regarding Figures 7-10B The embodiments, which will be discussed in more detail below, involve speaker drivers 46a-46c that can rotate about a distance perpendicular to their respective length axes l. sa l sb l sc and their respective thickness axes t sa t sb t sc The axis of the defined plane is rotated so that specific audio content can be oriented laterally relative to the viewer / listener.

[0043] refer to Figures 7-10E An embodiment of an audio system 79 is described. The audio system 79 includes a multi-segment soundbar 80 and an adjustable speaker mounting system 83. The multi-segment soundbar 80 includes speaker segments 82a-82c, each speaker segment having a corresponding housing 85a-85e, and each housing housing at least one corresponding speaker driver. Figures 7-10B In the design, speaker segments 82a, 82b, 82d, and 82e each have one driver 86a, 86b, 86d, or 86e, while speaker 82c has two speaker drivers 86c1 and 86c2. Figure 7 In the middle, the audio system 79 is viewed from the front plan (i.e., along the thickness axis t of the speaker segment). sa t sb and t sc ) Observe and display as an assembled state not mounted on video display 20. The central axes Ma, Mb, Mc1, Mc2, Md and Me of each driver ( Figures 9A-9B (Perpendicular to the page.) Figure 8 In the middle, speaker segments 82a-82e are shown in a first rotational orientation about a rotational axis R defined by hinge 87, although Figure 8 The adjustable speaker mounting system 83 is not shown in the figure. The same rotation direction of speaker segments 82a-82e is shown in the figure. Figure 9A , 9B In 10A-10E.

[0044] The adjustable speaker mounting system 83 includes a video display mounting member 88, which is connected via hinges 87 (or more hinges) to a plurality of speaker mounting support panels 84a-84e, each speaker mounting support panel corresponding to a speaker segment 82a-82e. The audio system 79 can be connected to the video display 20 in a similar manner to the audiovisual system 12, although with two additional speaker segments 82a and 82e and two corresponding speaker mounting support panels 84a and 84f. The support shelf 36 can also be used with the audio system 79, and is referenced previously. Figures 3A-5C The installation is performed in the same manner as described above. Alternatively, multiple speaker segments 82a-82f may share a single support shelf, or each individual speaker segment 82a-82f may be equipped with its own support shelf. The audio system 79 may be magnetically connected to the upper speaker engagement surface 28 of the video display 20, or magnetically connected to the upper surface 51 of the support shelf 36, which is then fixedly connected to the upper speaker engagement surface 28 of the video display 20 and magnetically connected to the multi-segment soundbar 80 in the manner previously described.

[0045] exist Figures 7-10E In the embodiments, each speaker segment 82a-82e can be characterized by its own length axis, height axis, and thickness axis. These axes are not fixed in space, but are fixed in space relative to their respective speaker segments 82a-82e. Therefore, speaker segment 82a has a length axis l sa Height axis h sa and thickness axis t sa A corresponding axis was defined for each of the other speaker segments. Each speaker segment 82a-82e can rotate around an axis w parallel to the width of the video display. d The axis of rotation. As shown in the figure, hinge 87 defines the width axis w parallel to the video display. d The axis of rotation, and each speaker engagement support panel 84a-84e can be as previously mentioned. Figures 4-5C In the manner described in the embodiments, the hinge 87 can be rotated independently, either manually or automatically. Although not shown separately, in Figures 7-10B In this configuration, similar motor and gear structures, such as rack and pinion gears 60a-60c (60c shown) and pinions 62a-62c (62c shown) (different variations thereof), can be used to rotate each speaker support panel 84a-84e and its corresponding speaker segment 82a-82e. Furthermore, each driver 86a-86e (86c not shown) can rotate about an axis parallel to the height axis of its speaker segment. This is in Figure 9A and 9B As can be seen most clearly in the image, the soundbar 79 is along the height axis h of the video display 20. dViewing. The speaker driver 86a can rotate around an axis defined by axis 96a (extending into the page) on its length axis l. sa and thickness axis t sa Rotation within a defined plane. Other speaker drivers 86a-86e can also rotate within their respective length and thickness axes (i.e., l). sb / t sb l sc / t sc l sd / t sd l se / t se They rotate within the plane defined by 96a, 96b, 96c1 (not shown), 96c2 (not shown), 96d, and 96e, and about axes defined by their respective axes 96a, 96b, 96c1 (not shown), 96c2 (not shown), 96d, and 96e. Thus, in some examples, each actuator 86a-86e can rotate relative to its height axis and thickness axis h. sa / t sa h sb / t sb h sc / t sc h sd / t sd and h se / t se Defined planar rotation. The degree of rotation of any particular driver relative to the height / thickness plane of its corresponding speaker segment can be characterized by the driver's internal rotation angle β. Viewed from above, the internal rotation angle β is clockwise relative to the height / thickness plane. a -β e It has a positive value, while the inward rotation angle relative to the height / thickness plane (counterclockwise) has a negative value. For example, refer to... Figures 9A-9B Viewed from above, the speaker driver 86a rotates about an axis of rotation defined by shaft 96a, relative to its height axis h. sa and thickness axis t sa The defined plane rotates clockwise by an angle β a Therefore, β a It has a positive value. Conversely, the speaker driver 86e is relative to its height axis h. se and thickness axis t se The limited counterclockwise rotation angle β of the plane e Therefore, β e It has negative values.

[0046] exist Figure 9A In the middle, speaker drivers 86b and 86d are relative to each other by their respective height axis and thickness axis h. sb / t sb and h sd / t sdThe defined plane did not rotate. Therefore, β b and β d It is zero. However, in Figure 9B In the middle, the speaker driver 86b is positioned around axis 96b relative to the height axis h. sb and thickness axis t sb The defined plane is rotated clockwise, therefore, β b It has a positive value. Furthermore, in Figure 9B In the middle, the speaker driver 86d (due to the rotation of the shaft 96d) is relative to the height axis h. sd and thickness axis t sd The defined plane is rotated counterclockwise. Therefore, β d It has a negative value. In a preferred example, the β value of each speaker segment 82a-82e ranges from at least -15 degrees to +15 degrees, preferably from at least -45 degrees to +45 degrees, and more preferably from at least -90 degrees to +90 degrees. Preferably, a suitable motor is provided within the housing 85a-85e of each speaker segment 82a-82e to rotate the shafts 96a, 96b, 96c1, 96c2, 96d, and 96e corresponding to each driver 86a, 86b, 86c1, 86c2, 86d, and 86e.

[0047] One advantage of the multiple degrees of freedom offered by the speaker drivers 86A-86E is that, for example, during sporting events, the central drivers 86C1 and 86C2 can be directed directly towards the audience / listeners to maximize the clarity of the announcer's voice, while drivers 86A and 86E can be offset from the central drivers 86C1 and 86C2 and directed towards the wall, creating a stadium-like effect even when using standard television stereo without surround sound. In sporting events and similar announcer-centric programs, offsetting the left and right front speakers from the audience reduces competition between the announcer's audio and the event sound, further improving the announcer's clarity. In other cases, such as when dealing with up-firing audio content (like Dolby Atmos), the drivers 86A-86E can selectively tilt relative to the horizontal plane depending on whether such content is being played.

[0048] exist Figures 10A-10E The image provides a view of each specific speaker segment 82a-82e in the soundbar 80 in a rotational orientation about the hinge 87, such that... Figure 8 and 9A As shown. Note that each speaker segment 82-82e, or group of speaker segments, is connected to the speaker support shelf 36. Each speaker segment 82a-82e is connected to the speaker support shelf 36 via a corresponding magnet or a corresponding magnet group 92a, 92b, 92c, 92d, and 92e. In some examples, the magnets have the features described above. Figures 5A-5C and Figure 6 The magnetic field strength per pound of weight.

[0049] In this embodiment, racks 90a, 90b (not shown), 90c, 90d (not shown), 90e, and pinions 92a, 92b, 92c, 92d, and 92e (not shown, but with a structure and operation similar to pinions 62a-62c) should be understood as being similar to... Figures 5A-5C Those similar to those in [the original text] have been removed for easier viewing. Therefore, Figure 10A Speaker segment 82a is shown, while along the width w of the video display. d axis along Figures 9A-9B Observe along line 10A-10A. For example... Figure 10E As shown, the speaker support panel 84a is rotated upwards to an upward tilt angle θ of approximately zero. a .like Figure 9A and Figure 9B As shown, the actuator 86a rotates within the housing 85a about the rotation axis R defined by the shaft 96a to an inner rotation angle β. a The negative value. In Figure 10A In the middle, the upward tilt angle θ of speaker segment 82e e The upward elevation angle θ of speaker segment 82a a They have the same value (0). However, as Figure 9A As shown in Figure B, compared to driver 86a, driver 86e is relative to the height axis h. se and thickness axis t se The plane is rotated in opposite directions, such that βa and βe have similar sizes but opposite signs.

[0050] Figure 10D It shows along Figure 9A The view of speaker segment 82b, taken by line 10B-10B. Speaker segment 82b is in its stationary or unrotated state relative to the axis of rotation defined by hinge 87. Therefore, the upward elevation angle θ b It is a positive value and approximately 45 degrees. Figure 9B In this process, the actuator 86b does not rotate internally within the housing 85b about the axis defined by the shaft 96b; therefore, its internal rotation angle β b The value is zero. Figure 10B Speaker segment 82d is shown, which is oriented in the same way as speaker segment 82b and has the same elevation angle (θ) and internal rotation angle (β).

[0051] Figure 10C It shows along Figures 9A-9BA view of speaker segment 82c taken from line 10C-10C. The speaker engagement support panel 84e rotates upward about a rotational axis defined by hinge 87, causing the central axes Mc1 and Mc2 to tilt downward relative to the horizontal plane P, and therefore their upward projection angle θ c1 and θ c2 They have equal negative values. Figure 10C or Figures 9A-9B The driver 86 is not visible in the middle. c1 and 86 c2 However, their central axes Mc1 and Mc2 can be seen. They indicate the drive 86. c1 and 86 c2 Relative to the housing 85 c No internal rotation occurred, therefore, β c1 and β c2 The value is zero.

[0052] In some embodiments, the values ​​of the inner rotation angles βa, βb, βc1, βc2, βd, and βe can be adjusted manually, or automatically in the same or other embodiments. A local controller and / or remote controller on the audio system 79 can be used to input the desired inner rotation angle. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more controllers in the audio system 79 can be configured to adjust the inner rotation angle based on values ​​encoded into the audio signal provided to each channel operatively connected to each speaker segment 82a-82e. For example, specific audio content may include sounds intended to be heard from the left and right sides of a viewer / listener, in which case the audio streams of the channels operatively connected to speaker segments 82a and 82e can encode appropriate values ​​for βa and βe, which can be adjusted by the rotation orientation controller based on data about the room geometry and / or the viewer / listener's position. In some examples, the viewer / listener may also input room geometry information and information about their position, which can be used to adjust the values ​​of the inner rotation angle encoded into the audio stream of each channel.

[0053] As disclosed, these are some examples of useful embodiments of the present invention. The foregoing detailed description of the technology is presented for illustrative and descriptive purposes. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the technology to the exact forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in accordance with the foregoing teachings. The described embodiments were chosen to best explain the technical principles, their practical application, and to enable those skilled in the art to utilize the technology in various embodiments and make various modifications suitable for the particular purpose contemplated. The scope of the technology is intended to be defined by the claims.

Claims

1. An audiovisual system, comprising: A video display having a video display housing having an upper surface and a lower surface spaced apart along the height axis of the video display; as well as An audio system, the audio system comprising: A loudspeaker, including at least one loudspeaker driver located within a loudspeaker housing, the loudspeaker housing having a lower surface, the at least one loudspeaker driver having a central axis, wherein the lower surface of the loudspeaker housing is magnetically attached to the upper surface of a video display such that the central axis forms a non-orthogonal angle with a horizontal plane.

2. The audiovisual system according to claim 1, wherein, The loudspeaker includes at least two loudspeaker drivers, each of which receives different audio content from at least one audio content source.

3. The audiovisual system according to claim 2, wherein, The at least two speaker drivers are capable of rotating automatically around their respective central axes.

4. The audiovisual system according to claim 1, wherein, The speaker driver is operable to project sound in the upward direction along the central axis relative to the horizontal plane.

5. The audiovisual system according to claim 1, wherein, The upper surface of the video display is tilted relative to the horizontal plane to form an angle equal to the non-orthogonal angle between the upper surface of the video display and the horizontal plane.

6. The audiovisual system according to claim 1, wherein, The loudspeaker includes a soundbar, the loudspeaker housing is a soundbar housing, the soundbar housing has a certain length along the length axis of the soundbar, and the at least one loudspeaker driver is at least two loudspeaker drivers spaced apart from each other along the length axis of the soundbar.

7. An audiovisual system, comprising: A video display with a top surface and a bottom surface; as well as An adjustable speaker mounting system is magnetically attached to a video display surface selected from the upper and lower surfaces of a video display, the adjustable speaker mounting system having a speaker engagement support that can rotate relative to the selected video display surface.

8. The audiovisual system of claim 7 further includes an audio system, the audio system including an adjustable speaker mounting system and a speaker, the speaker including at least one speaker driver disposed in a speaker housing, wherein the speaker housing is attached to a speaker engagement support.

9. The audiovisual system according to claim 7, wherein, The speaker mounting support is attached to the video display mounting support, and the speaker mounting support is rotatable relative to the selected video display surface.

10. The audiovisual system according to claim 9, wherein, The rotational position of the speaker engagement support relative to the selected video display surface is automatically adjusted based on whether the speaker is playing up-firing audio content.

11. The audiovisual system according to claim 7, wherein, The loudspeaker includes a first loudspeaker and a second loudspeaker. The first loudspeaker includes at least one loudspeaker driver disposed in a first loudspeaker housing, and the second loudspeaker includes a second loudspeaker driver disposed in a second loudspeaker housing. The first loudspeaker housing is spaced apart from the second loudspeaker housing along the width axis of the video display. The loudspeaker engagement support is the first loudspeaker engagement support. The adjustable mounting system also includes a second loudspeaker engagement support that is rotatable relative to a selected video display surface. The first loudspeaker housing is attached to the first loudspeaker engagement support, and the second loudspeaker housing is attached to the second loudspeaker engagement support.

12. The audiovisual system according to claim 11, wherein, The adjustable speaker mounting system also includes a video display mounting support, which is attached to the first speaker mounting support and the second speaker mounting support, and magnetically attached to the selected video display surface.

13. The audiovisual system according to claim 12, wherein, The adjustable speaker mounting system includes a first gear attached to the speaker mounting support, the first gear being rotatable about a rotation axis fixed in space relative to the speaker mounting support. The adjustable speaker mounting system also includes a second gear, a first end of which is attached to the video display mounting support, and a second end extending through a plane defined by the speaker mounting support. The first gear meshes with the second gear such that rotation of the first gear causes the first gear to move along the second gear, thereby adjusting the rotational position of the speaker mounting support relative to the video display mounting support.

14. The audiovisual system of claim 7, further comprising an audio system, the audio system including a loudspeaker, the loudspeaker including at least one loudspeaker driver disposed in a loudspeaker housing, wherein, The speaker housing is rotatable relative to the selected video display surface about a first axis parallel to the width axis of the video display, and the at least one speaker driver is rotatable relative to the speaker housing about a second axis perpendicular to the first axis.

15. The audiovisual system according to claim 7, wherein, The upper surface of the video display is inclined relative to the horizontal plane. The audiovisual system also includes a support shelf attached to the upper surface of the video display and having a rear retaining wall for holding the adjustable speaker mounting system, and the adjustable speaker mounting system is magnetically attached to the support shelf.

16. A loudspeaker system, comprising: An audio system comprising a loudspeaker, the loudspeaker including at least one loudspeaker driver disposed in a loudspeaker housing; An adjustable loudspeaker mounting system includes a first member hinged to a second member, such that the first member and the second member can rotate relative to each other about a rotation axis, wherein a loudspeaker housing is detachably attached to the first member such that when the loudspeaker housing is attached to the first member, the angle formed between the central axis of at least one loudspeaker driver and a plane parallel to the second member can be adjusted by rotation of the first member relative to the second member.

17. The adjustable loudspeaker system according to claim 16, wherein, The second of the two hinged members is magnetic or has a magnet attached to it.

18. The adjustable loudspeaker system according to claim 16, wherein, The adjustable speaker mounting system includes a third component hinged to the second component, wherein the speaker includes a first speaker, the at least one speaker driver includes at least one first speaker driver, the speaker housing includes a first speaker housing, and the audio system further includes a second speaker, the second speaker including at least one second speaker driver disposed in the second speaker housing, wherein the second speaker housing is detachably attached to the third component such that when the second speaker housing is attached to the third component, the angle between the central axis of the second speaker and the second component can be adjusted by rotating the third component relative to the second component.

19. The adjustable loudspeaker system according to claim 16, wherein, The audio system includes a motor disposed in the speaker housing, the motor being operable to rotate a first member relative to a second member, wherein the motor is operably connected to a first gear, and the adjustable speaker system further includes a second gear attached to the second member and capable of meshing with the first gear, such that when the first gear meshes with the second gear, rotation of the first gear causes the first member to rotate relative to the second member.

20. The adjustable loudspeaker system according to claim 16, wherein, The at least one speaker driver is rotatable relative to the speaker housing within the speaker housing.

Images