Loudspeaker assembly having a loudspeaker and an illuminating unit
Patent Information
- Application Number
- EP2023737963
- Authority / Receiving Office
- EP · EP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2022-08-11
- Filing Date
- 2023-06-30
- Publication Date
- 2025-06-18
AI Technical Summary
Existing loudspeaker arrangements lack a visually appealing and customizable design that effectively integrates lighting to enhance the presentation of visual symbols, such as trademarks or product branding, while also providing protection against mechanical damage and easy maintenance.
A loudspeaker arrangement featuring a transparent or translucent support structure with light decoupling elements, a light-guiding element surrounding the edge, and a diffuser, which illuminates a visual symbol on the glass body or diffuser, allowing for direct or indirect lighting, customizable visual symbols, and control over light color and brightness, enhancing the visual appeal and individualization.
The solution provides a visually appealing and customizable loudspeaker arrangement that effectively highlights visual symbols, offering protection and easy maintenance, while enhancing the appearance and functionality through integrated lighting, suitable for various environments including vehicle interiors.
Smart Images

Figure 1.1
Abstract
Description
[0001] Loudspeaker arrangement with one loudspeaker and one lighting unit
[0002] The invention relates to a loudspeaker arrangement comprising a loudspeaker and a lighting unit.
[0003] An illuminated loudspeaker is known from DE 102016 122 078 A1. The loudspeaker includes a light source configured to emit input light. A membrane is configured to move when a magnet receives electrical signals. A first photoluminescent structure is arranged on the membrane. A second photoluminescent structure is also arranged on the membrane. The input light emitted by the light source is converted into output light by the first and second photoluminescent structures.
[0004] DE 10 2016 115 750 A1 describes a lighting element for a motor vehicle interior, comprising an elongated light guide, a diffuser, wherein the light guide is at least partially accommodated in the diffuser, and a reflector. The reflector is arranged on an inner side of the diffuser and has a reflective surface facing the light guide. The reflector is configured to reflect light from the light guide to an outer side of the light guide, wherein the reflector has a rough surface for diffusely reflecting light from the light guide.
[0005] Furthermore, DE 202016 006 556 U1 discloses a drinking glass of any shape and / or color, into which a two- or three-dimensional glass sculpture is firmly incorporated in the interior, i.e. where the drinks are poured.
[0006] The invention is based on the object of providing a novel loudspeaker arrangement comprising a loudspeaker and a lighting unit. This object is achieved according to the invention by a loudspeaker arrangement having the features specified in claim 1 and by a vehicle having the features specified in claim 10.
[0007] Advantageous embodiments of the invention are the subject of the subclaims.
[0008] A loudspeaker arrangement comprises a loudspeaker and a lighting unit. According to the invention, a glass body and / or a component of the loudspeaker comprises a visual sign, and the lighting unit illuminates the glass body and / or the component of the loudspeaker to create a lighting presentation of the visual sign.
[0009] Using a loudspeaker arrangement designed in this way, it is possible to illuminate the visual sign and thereby visually highlight it. Using the visual sign, which can be a trademark and / or a product, the brand and / or product can be visually showcased and become a focal point of the loudspeaker arrangement.
[0010] Direct or indirect lighting, especially of the visual sign, is integrated into the loudspeaker cover as an additional unit.
[0011] In one embodiment, a support structure formed at least partially from a transparent and / or translucent material is arranged on the rear side of a loudspeaker cover, said support structure having a plurality of light-coupling structures. In particular, the visual symbol is arranged relative to at least one of the light-coupling structures in such a way that the visual symbol is illuminated by direct or indirect illumination. The loudspeaker cover can be designed as a grid, in particular as a metal grid, whereby a membrane of the loudspeaker is arranged, in particular, protected from mechanical damage.
[0012] In a further development of the loudspeaker arrangement, the lighting unit comprises a light-guiding element extending around the edge of the support structure and at least one light-coupling element. The light-guiding element is coupled to the at least one light-coupling element. This design of the lighting unit makes it comparatively cost-effective, while the appearance of the loudspeaker arrangement can be enhanced by the lighting unit.
[0013] In one embodiment, a diffuser is arranged on the support structure as a component with the glass body arranged in a holder. The visual sign can be arranged alternatively or additionally on the diffuser, with the visual sign also being illuminated by the lighting unit.
[0014] In one embodiment of the loudspeaker arrangement, a light emitted by means of the at least one light coupling element and coupled into the light guide element exits directly or indirectly via the light coupling structures of the support structure, a perforation of the loudspeaker cover, in a region of the glass body and / or via the glass body for lighting staging.
[0015] In a further embodiment, the visual sign is arranged on an underside of the glass body, on an upper side of the glass body and / or in an interior of the glass body and is formed by means of printing, foil, depression, embossing and / or matting.
[0016] If the visual sign is arranged on the underside of the glass body, the visual sign is largely protected from dirt and dust deposits. If the visual sign is alternatively or additionally arranged on the upper side of the glass body, it is particularly possible to change the visual sign, for example by removing and / or sticking over it. A user of the loudspeaker arrangement or the owner of a vehicle in which the loudspeaker arrangement is installed thus has the option of changing the visual sign as required. This makes it possible, for example, to individualize the loudspeaker cover, for example by having the initials of the user, i.e. the owner of the loudspeaker, form the light-staged visual sign.
[0017] If it is intended that the visual sign is alternatively or additionally formed inside the glass body, the visual sign can also have a three-dimensional shape, which is then illuminated directly or indirectly by means of the lighting unit for lighting purposes.
[0018] In a further alternative or additional embodiment of the loudspeaker arrangement, the visual symbol is arranged on the top side of the diffuser as a component of the loudspeaker and is formed by printing, foil, recessing, embossing, and / or matting. In this embodiment, the visual symbol is also protected from contamination, since the holder with the glass body is arranged on the diffuser, and the glass body is arranged on the top side of the diffuser.
[0019] In a further development of the loudspeaker arrangement, the diffuser and / or the glass body arranged thereon are coupled to a light source and / or a separate light guide for coupling the light. This makes it possible to create different illumination areas and, if necessary, to use different colored light sources as light coupling elements.
[0020] In one embodiment of the loudspeaker array, the transparent and / or translucent sections of the support structure are arranged such that the coupled light exits directly or indirectly exclusively through the glass body of the loudspeaker array. Since the light exits exclusively through the glass body in this embodiment, the visual sign can solely serve as an eye-catcher and attract the attention of a viewer.
[0021] Furthermore, one possible embodiment provides for the light coupling element to be coupled to a control unit for switching the at least one light coupling element on and off, and for controlling the brightness, color, and / or frequency of the emitted light. This makes it possible to create various color and / or light effects, which further attract attention and enhance the appearance of the loudspeaker arrangement, in particular the loudspeaker cover.
[0022] Furthermore, the invention relates to a vehicle with such a loudspeaker arrangement, which comprises the loudspeaker and the loudspeaker cover, and the loudspeaker cover is designed as described above, and which can be customized using the visual symbol. If the loudspeaker with the loudspeaker cover is arranged in the interior panel of a vehicle door, the direct and / or indirect light emission can also be used for the comparatively discreet illumination of an entry and exit area. For example, the light emission for illumination can be controlled accordingly. Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to drawings.
[0023] Showing:
[0024] Fig. 1 schematically shows a front view of a loudspeaker arrangement with a loudspeaker and a loudspeaker cover and
[0025] Fig. 2 shows a schematic sectional view of the loudspeaker arrangement with the loudspeaker and the loudspeaker cover.
[0026] Corresponding parts are provided with the same reference numerals in all figures.
[0027] Figure 1 shows a front view of a loudspeaker assembly LA with a loudspeaker 1 and a loudspeaker cover 2, and Figure 2 shows a sectional view of the loudspeaker assembly LA with the loudspeaker 1 and the loudspeaker cover 2. The loudspeaker 1 and the loudspeaker cover 2 are arranged in particular in a vehicle, for example, in the interior panel of a vehicle door. The loudspeaker 1 and the loudspeaker cover 2 each have a circular shape.
[0028] The loudspeaker 1 has a so-called loudspeaker basket 1.1, a support structure 1.2 and a loudspeaker membrane 1.3, which is arranged to be protected by the loudspeaker cover 2, in particular against mechanical damage.
[0029] The loudspeaker cover 2, which is particularly arranged in a vehicle interior, often has a decorative, i.e., design, function in addition to covering and protecting the loudspeaker membrane 1.3. A variety of lighting functions are known, with these lighting functions framing the loudspeaker cover or illuminating it through the cover.
[0030] The loudspeaker cover 2 described below, in addition to a protective and covering function for the loudspeaker 1, also has an illumination function realized by means of a lighting unit BE with a visual symbol Z, for example, for customization. If the loudspeaker 1 is arranged in an interior door panel of the vehicle, the lighting unit BE can also be used, for example, to illuminate an entry and exit area of the vehicle door.
[0031] In one possible embodiment, the loudspeaker cover 2 is designed as a grid, in particular made of a comparatively thin sheet metal with perforation P, which is stabilized against mechanical influences by means of a support structure S arranged on a rear side.
[0032] The support structure S is formed from a transparent and / or translucent material. In an alternative embodiment, the support structure S has sections formed from a transparent and / or translucent material at predetermined positions.
[0033] A light-guiding element 3, i.e., a ring-shaped light-guiding element 3, is arranged on the support structure S, surrounding its edge, as a component of the lighting unit BE. This light-guiding element is coupled to two light coupling elements 4, i.e., two light sources, for example, in the form of LEDs, as further components of the lighting unit BE. The number of light coupling elements 4 can vary, so that one light coupling element 4 or several light coupling elements 4 can be provided.
[0034] In a center of the loudspeaker cover 2, a diffuser 5 is arranged on the support structure S, which diffuses a light L coupled into the support structure S evenly. For this purpose, the support structure S has a number of light output structures S1, S2, wherein a light L coupled out via a light output structure S1 is evenly scattered by means of the diffuser 5.
[0035] A holder 6, in particular a socket, is arranged on the diffuser 5, wherein a glass body 7 is arranged in the holder 6 such that the diffuser 5 is arranged on an underside of the glass body 7. The holder 6 encloses the diffuser 5 and the glass body 7 at the edges, so that the diffuser 5 and the glass body 7 are arranged directly next to one another. In particular, the glass body 7 is set like a jewel by means of the holder 6. The glass body 7, alternatively a crystal, is fastened to the support structure S and / or the light-guiding element 3 with the diffuser 5 and the holder 6 in a materially bonded, positively bonded and / or non-positively bonded manner, for example by gluing and / or clipping it to the support structure S.
[0036] The glass body 7 and / or the diffuser 5 have a visual symbol Z, which is also referred to as a signet. According to the exemplary embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the glass body 7 has the visual symbol Z, which is incorporated into the glass body 7, i.e., is formed inside the glass body 7.
[0037] The visual symbol Z is formed by printing, foil, recessing, embossing, and / or matting inside the glass body 7, whereby the visual symbol Z can also have a three-dimensional shape. For example, the visual symbol Z can be a logo, a trademark, and / or the initials of a vehicle owner, thus increasing the degree of individualization of the vehicle.
[0038] In particular, the visual symbol Z is introduced into the glass body 7 using a laser and can be three-dimensional. Alternatively or additionally, the glass body 7 can be formed in two parts, so that the visual symbol Z is applied or introduced onto and / or into one part and / or onto and / or into the other part of the two-part glass body 7 using one or more of the above-listed methods of introduction.
[0039] To particularly highlight the visual sign Z and draw attention to the visual sign Z, the edges and / or surfaces of the glass body 7 can be cut like a crystal or a diamond, particularly if the glass body 7 is made of real glass. If the glass body 7 is made of acrylic glass, the edges and / or surfaces can be machined, with the edges and / or surfaces refracting light L according to the desired effect.
[0040] According to the present embodiment in Figures 1 and 2, the glass body 7 has ground surfaces F, in other words facets, in its peripheral edge region 7.1.
[0041] In a first alternative or additional embodiment, the visual symbol Z is arranged on the underside of the glass body 7 and formed by printing, foil, for example, chrome foil, recessing, embossing, and / or matting, for example, by laser radiation, mechanical processing, and / or tool-based matting. Different methods of application can also be combined, with a recess followed by matting being conceivable, for example.
[0042] In a second alternative or additional embodiment, the visual symbol Z is arranged on an upper side of the glass body 7 and formed by printing, foil, e.g., chrome foil, recessing, embossing, and / or matting. Here, too, any reasonable combination of the various application methods is possible.
[0043] In a third alternative or additional embodiment, the visual sign Z is arranged on a top side or a bottom side of the diffuser 5 and is formed in particular by means of the types of introduction listed above.
[0044] The glass body 7 is highlighted and illuminated by the light L emitted by the lighting unit BE, in particular by the light coupling elements 4 in the form of LEDs and the annular light guide element 3, as well as the light coupling structures S1, S2. The light L coupled out via the light coupling structure 3.1 is evenly scattered by the diffuser 5 and refracted at the visual symbol Z.
[0045] Depending on the design, different effects can be achieved by using different lighting scenarios in relation to the glass body 7 and the lighting effects on the visual sign Z.
[0046] For example, a lighting scenario includes switching on and off scenarios and at least one dimming function.
[0047] In an alternative or additional embodiment, in a lighting scenario, cold white or warm white light L can be emitted by means of the light coupling element 4 or by means of several light coupling elements 4, a color change can be generated, and / or the emitted light L can be output in a pulsating manner. For example, the light coupling element 4 or the light coupling elements 4 are connected to a control unit (not shown in detail) in order to adjust the various lighting scenarios.
[0048] If two or more light coupling elements 4 are provided, special lighting effects can be created, for example light and / or color transitions and a sparkle on the ground surfaces F of the glass body 7 and / or on the visual sign Z. Light coupling, i.e. light emission and a lighting effect, occurs directly via a surface of the glass body 7 with the ground surfaces F and / or in a transparent area B between the loudspeaker cover 2, i.e. the perforated sheet, and the holder 6 of the glass body 7. As a result, light L passes through the perforation P of the loudspeaker cover 2 into an adjacent outside area.
[0049] The loudspeaker cover 2 is additionally illuminated from one visible side by indirect lighting in the transparent area B around the glass body 7. This can enhance the floating effect of the glass body 7 and the holder 6.
[0050] The light coupling element 4 or the light coupling elements 4 can be controlled in such a way that entry and exit scenarios in relation to the vehicle, display options, for example with regard to warning functions, comfort displays, for example warm / cold, ambient lighting functions, mood lighting scenarios and / or optical sound support can be displayed.
[0051] If the loudspeaker arrangement LA with the loudspeaker 1 and the loudspeaker cover 2 is arranged on an inside of a vehicle door or at least partially integrated therein, the loudspeaker cover 2 is arranged and fastened by means of a frame 8 to a housing 9 formed by a door lining, a baffle, etc.
[0052] By staging and highlighting the visual symbol Z, the appearance of the loudspeaker 1 with the loudspeaker cover 2 can be shaped and enhanced.
[0053] Additional functions and / or moods can be bundled and integrated into the loudspeaker cover 2 at a relatively low cost.
[0054] In an alternative embodiment, the transparent and / or translucent sections of the support structure S, i.e., its output structures S1, S2, are arranged such that the coupled-in light L exits directly or indirectly exclusively via the glass body 7. For example, the support structure S is provided for this purpose, at least in sections, with an opaque coating, with a separate opaque part, and / or with an opaque two-component part. This prevents light from escaping in the area of the loudspeaker cover 2, i.e., in the area of the perforated sheet.
[0055] In an alternative embodiment of the loudspeaker cover 2, the glass body 7 is illuminated through the diffuser 5 by means of a light source or several light sources (not shown in detail). The light source or light sources are arranged with respect to the diffuser 5 in such a way that a light L is coupled from an underside of the diffuser 5 through the diffuser into the glass body 7.
[0056] Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that the glass body 7 is illuminated from a bottom side by means of a separate light-guiding element not shown in detail.
[0057] A separate light-guiding element can also be arranged circumferentially around the glass body 2 and illuminate it, wherein a light coupling surface extends over the entire extent of the separate light-guiding element.
[0058] The loudspeaker assembly LA, comprising loudspeaker 1 and loudspeaker cover 2 with the directly and / or indirectly illuminated glass body 7, which may include the visual symbol Z, is not only intended for installation in a vehicle. Loudspeaker 1 and loudspeaker cover 2 can also be installed in all conceivable indoor and outdoor areas.
[0059] The overall appearance of the loudspeaker arrangement LA can be individually designed in various forms and can feature all conceivable visual symbols Z, for example in the form of brand and / or product symbols, as an eye-catcher.
Claims
Patent claims Loudspeaker arrangement (LA) with a loudspeaker (1) and a lighting unit (BE), characterized in that - a glass body (7) and / or a component of the loudspeaker (1) has or has a visual sign (Z) and - the lighting unit illuminates the glass body (7) and / or the component of the loudspeaker (1) for a lighting-technical presentation of the visual sign (Z). Loudspeaker arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that a support structure (S) formed at least in sections from a transparent and / or translucent material is arranged on a rear side of a loudspeaker cover (2), which support structure has a plurality of light output structures (S1, S2). Loudspeaker arrangement according to claim 2, characterized in that the lighting unit has a light-guiding element (3) surrounding the edge of the support structure (S) and at least one light input element (4), and the light-guiding element (3) is coupled to the at least one light input element (4).Loudspeaker arrangement according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that a diffuser (5) is arranged on the support structure (S) as a component with the glass body (7) arranged in a holder (6). Loudspeaker arrangement according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that a light (L) emitted by means of the at least one light coupling element (4) and coupled into the light-guiding element (3) exits directly or indirectly via the light coupling structures (S1, S2) of the support structure (S), a perforation (P) of the loudspeaker cover (2), in a region of the glass body (7) and / or via the glass body (7). Loudspeaker arrangement (LA) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the visual symbol (Z) is arranged on an underside of the glass body (7), on an upper side of the glass body (7) and / or in an interior of the glass body (7) and is formed by means of printing, foil, depression, embossing and / or matting.Loudspeaker arrangement (LA) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the visual symbol (Z) is arranged on an upper side of the diffuser (5) and is formed by means of printing, foil, recessing, embossing, and / or matting. Loudspeaker arrangement (LA) according to one of claims 2 to 8, characterized in that the transparent and / or translucent sections of the support structure (S) are arranged such that the coupled-in light (L) exits directly or indirectly exclusively via the glass body (7) of the loudspeaker cover (2). Loudspeaker arrangement (LA) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the light coupling element (4) is coupled to a control unit for switching the at least one light coupling element (4) on and off, for controlling a brightness, a color, and / or a frequency of the emitted light (L). Vehicle with a loudspeaker arrangement (LA) according to one of claims 1 to 9.