Composition, audio device, connector, and method for manufacturing the connector

Abstract

The present invention provides a composition for application to connectors in audio circuits, comprising carbon nanotubes, mineral components, and metallic components. The present invention also relates to an audio device comprising this 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 an audio device comprising the novel composition, and a method of manufacturing the connector. In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a composition for application to a connector of an audio circuit. In some embodiments, the present invention also relates to an audio device.

Background Art

[0002] As used herein, the expression "audio circuit" refers to an electrical or electronic drive circuit used to generate an electrical signal that serves as an input to an audio device such as a speaker, headphones, amplifier, etc.

[0003] The reproduction or amplification of sound is an important technology that not only enhances the quality of life but is also essential for the operation of modern society. There are numerous well-known technologies used for sound reproduction. These include, for example, speakers, smart speakers, headphones, earphones, microphones, instrument cables, audio cables, and adapters that can be connected to any of the listed items.

[0004] These items can each, alone, generate sound in the case of a speaker or headphones, or communicate sound to such a device through the transmission of an electrical signal to enable sound reproduction. For example, an audio cable and an adapter can be used to connect devices to enable the communication and generation of sound from an instrument such as an electric guitar to an amplifier.

[0005] The reproduction of audio signals perceived and experienced by users is a well-known fundamental technology. Examples of known technologies that can be incorporated into or used as part of connectors or cables in the field of audio reproduction include EP2716796, US2020099147, GB579360, GB2351616, CN214428800, CN217387609, and US5158465. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0006] Improved methods and systems for sound reproduction are desired. [Means for solving the problem]

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

[0008] A composition for application and use in audio circuits is provided. This composition comprises three components in the form of carbon nanotubes, mineral components, and metallic components. Typically, this composition can be provided in the form of a paste mixture with a solvent or liquid base, such as water, which is preferably deionized water. When used, this composition is applied to points or areas in the audio circuit, such as input points to the circuit, i.e., points or contacts where input wires can be physically connected to output devices such as speakers.

[0009] The applicants have recognized that applying certain compositions to points or regions within an audio circuit produces a remarkable beneficial effect on the sound generated by the audio circuit.

[0010] In one embodiment, the mineral is selected from the group including quartz, sapphire, amethyst, moonstone, kyanite, and jadeite.

[0011] In one embodiment, the metal is aluminum. The composition contains a metal that can be aluminum or, in practice, any other metal. The advantage of aluminum is that it is readily available and relatively inexpensive.

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

[0013] In one embodiment, the paste has a liquid base provided with carbon nanotubes, mineral components, and metallic components.

[0014] In one embodiment, the liquid base is deionized water.

[0015] In one embodiment, the metal is selected from the group consisting of gold (Au), silver (Ag), and copper (Cu).

[0016] In one embodiment, carbon nanotubes, mineral components, and metallic components are provided in a weight ratio of 2:1:1. Preferably, the composition contains specific components (carbon nanotubes, mineral components, and metallic components) in specified weight ratios. While the preferred weight ratio is 2:1:1, alternative weight ratios are also preferred. Alternatively, the ratio is 3:2:2.

[0017] The ratios or amounts used in the application of the composition can be varied depending on the application. For example, Figure 9 shows the weight range per application, which varies depending on the system or device used. For example, when used in headphones, the weight of carbon nanotubes is preferably 0.01g to 0.03g per application, the weight of minerals is preferably 0.007g to 0.013g per application, and the weight of metals is preferably 0.007g to 0.013g per application. In this context, it will be understood that "per application" refers to the amount of material applied to a contact or area in a particular usage situation.

[0018] In one embodiment, the composition is for application to an audio motherboard and comprises carbon nanotubes, mineral components, and metallic components.

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

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

[0021] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a connector for use in an audio circuit, the method comprising applying the composition according to the first aspect of the present invention to a connector having two or more contacts for receiving an electronic audio drive signal.

[0022] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023] [Figure 1] A view of a pair of earphone-type headphones with the backing of the housing removed. [Figure 2] A schematic view of an earphone from another perspective. [Figure 3] A view of a small speaker with the housing removed. [Figure 4] A schematic view of an audio jack with the lower housing removed. [Figure 5] A view of a speaker cone with electrical contacts at the rear. [Figure 6] A schematic view of the back of a female XLR. [Figure 7] A view of a general layout of a speaker and headphone circuit including associated controllers. [Figure 8] It is a table showing the components of an exemplary composition. [Figure 9] It is a table showing the components of an exemplary composition.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0024] FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of a pair of headphones with the rear housing removed. As is well known, headphones 2 include left and right small speakers configured to be placed in the user's ears during use.

[0025] Looking at the figure, these headphones appear to be like a conventional pair of headphones with respect to some components. Therefore, a detailed description of the functions of the headphones will not be given here. However, referring to the drawings, contacts 4 and 6 for receiving an input signal or a drive signal to the headphones can be seen through them. There are two contacts 4 and 6 for each of the left and right pairs of headphones.

[0026] Contacts 4 and 6 are usually connection points to which an input cable (not shown) is soldered. The input cable is usually from a music player or a processor in the music player. The music player can be any known player such as, for example, an MP3 player or a mobile phone having a music playback function.

[0027] The composition described in detail below is applied to contacts 4 and 6, which has the technical effect of significantly improving the sound generated by the device itself. In one example, connectors 4 and 6 can also be coupled to a cable that provides a flow of electrical signals to drive an audio signal from a speaker within the headphones. However, contacts 4 and 6 can also be simply connected to the output from a processor configured to receive an audio electrical signal via a wireless technology such as Bluetooth.

[0028] As will be discussed later, the sound output itself has been tested by general users, including musicians, music producers, disc jockeys (DJs), and professional studio mixers. This technology is applicable to all types of headphones, including over-ear, in-ear earphones, Bluetooth and wired headphones, various types of speakers, instrument cables, and connectors, which will be explained in more detail below.

[0029] The material provided to be placed on contacts 4 and 6 is a combination of at least three components, or a composition comprising a metallic component, a stone or mineral component, and a compound containing carbon nanotubes. In other words, the material or composition for application to the connector of the audio circuit comprises carbon nanotubes, minerals, and metals.

[0030] The applicants have shown that combinations of carbon nanotubes with other components of the composition improve the quality of sound produced by sound-generating devices when the composition is applied to components or connectors of an electronic device chain that generates sound.

[0031] Examples of possible compositions are shown and described in detail below. Further examples of the compositions' uses are provided for the time being.

[0032] Referring to Figure 2, an example of the earphone circuit of Figure 1 is shown, arranged within the earphone housing. The housing 8 is of a conventional shape, and as can be seen from the figure, a known circuit 10 is provided inside the housing. A cover 12 removed from one earphone is shown, exposing the functional component itself, which will be described in detail later.

[0033] Contacts 4 and 6 are provided, on which modules or layers of the aforementioned composition are 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 contacts 4 and 6, contains defined amounts of various components. Typically, the composition is in the form of a paste with a matrix solvent solution. This paste is applied to a region of interest and then dries, leaving a solid residue of the aforementioned composition.

[0034] Carbon nanotubes preferably have a length of 5 to 20 micrometers and a cross-sectional diameter of 1 to 3 nm. Preferably, the nanotubes have a cross-sectional diameter of about 2 nm.

[0035] Figure 3 shows a more simplified example of a pair of headphones. In this example, the sound generation component 14 is visible, along with the circuitry 16 located on the back of the sound generation component 14.

[0036] A cable 18 is shown that transmits electronic drive signals from a processor (not shown). Contacts 20 and 22 are provided, and a layer of the aforementioned composition is placed thereon. The ends of the cable 18 are then typically soldered to the composition itself.

[0037] Figure 4 shows an alternative use of the technology as part of the jack connector 24. In this example, the jack connector can be used to couple an electrical signal to a pair of headphones (not shown).

[0038] The example shown here is a conventional TRS type male audio jack, including a chip 26, a ring 28, and a sleeve 30. Each TRS component is provided with input sections 32, 34, and 36, respectively.

[0039] A tension relief clamp 38 is provided, but this example is not relevant to the technology of the present invention.

[0040] The chip 26 and ring 28 are for providing or receiving signals for voice communication. In this example, layers of the composition described above are provided or applied to areas 40 and 42 of the input sections 32 and 34 of the jack 24. Also, as in the previous example, the composition can be applied together with a solvent matrix, which is then dried, leaving a residual layer of solid material.

[0041] In another example, a properly sized jack connector, such as a guitar jack, can be connected to a lead to couple the electronically driven signal from the guitar pickup to a guitar amplifier.

[0042] Figure 5 shows an example of a speaker 44 having electrical inputs 46 and 48. These are typically connected to cables or connectors that provide electrical signals to drive the speaker 44 and produce sound when in use. The speaker has a speaker cone 45 that is arranged to vibrate to produce and transmit sound, as is well known. As in the previous example, it is assumed that layers of composition are applied to the connectors 46 and 48 to improve the quality of the sound produced by the speaker cone 45 of the speaker 44.

[0043] Figure 6 shows the backs of male 50 and female 52 XLR connectors, respectively. As is well known, XLR connectors are used for a variety of audio purposes, including microphones and loudspeakers. XLR connectors typically have three connection (input / output) pins, but models with different numbers of pins are also available.

[0044] In the example shown in Figure 6, referring to the male connector 50, three contacts are shown: the shield / ground, positive, and negative contacts. The aforementioned composition is applied to the positive and negative contacts in the same manner as previously described with respect to the jack and shown in Figure 5. This composition can be provided on any or all (1-3) contacts of the connector 50.

[0045] A similar arrangement is typically provided in the example of the female XLR connector 52 shown in Figure 6. This composition can be provided on any or all of the contacts (1-3) of the connector 52, similar to the male XLR described above.

[0046] Figure 7 shows a schematic layout including a control PCB 54 connected to a speaker 56. The PCB 54 has an input section 58 and an output section 60. The input section 58 is coupled to a drive circuit 62, which also has a power driver 64 without an output section.

[0047] To understand that during use, a signal is typically provided from the drive circuit 62 to the input section 58. After being processed appropriately on the PCB, the output is provided from the output connector 60 to the speaker 56.

[0048] The compositions described herein are typically applied to the connectors 58 and 60, and also to the audio signal output section 66 on the drive circuit 62, in the same manner as described above.

[0049] This schematic arrangement can be used for any of the components illustrated and described herein.

[0050] The composition itself will now be described in more detail. The composition is preferably provided in the form of a paste that can be applied to connection points on the input section to a circuit or audio device for providing an audio drive signal, as described above.

[0051] Figure 8 is a table showing exemplary amounts of components in the composition applied to the various applications listed. For example, in the case of a motherboard, as shown as component 54 in Figure 7, the components are typically supplied in amounts of 0.02 g of carbon nanotubes, 0.01 g of minerals such as ground quartz, ground sapphire, or ground kyanite, and 0.01 g of aluminum per application of the composition. The amounts used in other applications can be seen from the table in Figure 8. It will be understood that the specified amounts are supplied in the form of a liquid base such as deionized water or a paste combined with a solvent. Once placed in position, it is preferable to apply a lacquer or fixative, as is known to those skilled in the art, to permanently fix the applied composition in the desired location.

[0052] In one example, a UV-curable lacquer or resin is used, which is applied as a layer on or over the composition and then solidified or cured using UV radiation. Preferably, the lacquer extends beyond the area occupied by the composition so as to act as an anchor to the surface on which the composition and the lacquer are placed.

[0053] Each application is based on the mass of the constituent components. The thickness or two-dimensional spread of the composition in the applied amount will vary from use to use. A thinner layer can be applied if the available area is large, but if the surface area is limited, the thickness of the application will be greater. In other words, the important thing is that, for example, for each application on an audio motherboard, the composition preferably contains 0.02 g of carbon nanotubes, 0.01 g of crushed quartz, sapphire, or kyanite or other minerals, and 0.01 g of aluminum.

[0054] The applicant has demonstrated that a combination of carbon nanotubes, a metal such as aluminum, and a mineral such as crushed quartz or sapphire improves the soundstage produced by the electrical device. Adding quartz or sapphire to the composition improves sound clarity. Furthermore, experiments have demonstrated that the localization of sound at azimuth and zenith angles is also improved. 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 may also be used. Examples of minerals or stones that can be used include amethyst, moonstone, and jade.

[0055] It is also possible to use a mixture of two or more metals and / or two or more minerals in the composition. It has been shown that various components can have different effects on the final sound produced by the audio device. For example, amethyst flattens the low and high frequency components of the audio signal. This offers advantages for use in the speaker market. Therefore, if different mineral components such as sapphire or quartz are used in the connector, the resulting sound may change.

[0056] The mineral composition can be selected or modified depending on the application. The applicants have shown that quartz affects the low and medium frequency ranges, while sapphire affects the medium and high frequency ranges. Kyanite enhances the spatial effect and further increases the sense of presence. Preferably, the mineral composition is a mixture of quartz and sapphire, and the total amounts applied are as shown in the table. The ratio of quartz to sapphire in the mineral composition of the composition can be 20:80, 30:70, 40:60, or 50:50 (or vice versa).

[0057] Figure 9 shows a further example where preferred ranges for the amounts of different materials are shown according to desired a1-3, where the amounts of components in the composition are 0.01-0.03 g of carbon nanotubes, 0.007-0.013 g of minerals such as quartz or sapphire, and 0.007-0.013 g of metals such as aluminum. Preferably, the material is formed as a mixture or paste with a liquid base such as any suitable solvent or liquid, including distilled water and deionized water. When mixed with a liquid base or solvent such as deionized water, a paste is formed, which can be applied to the area of ​​interest on the headphones, i.e., the contacts for the input cable.

[0058] The mixture can be applied manually, for example, by an applicator such as a brush, or preferably in a manufacturing process, by any known method of applying a composition such as a paste or slurry to an area of ​​interest. In other words, the composition can be applied by printing or coating using known masking techniques.

[0059] The important thing is that a composition containing a specific amount of the constituent components is applied to each of the contact points.

[0060] The method and apparatus of the present invention guarantee that extremely realistic reproduction is achieved. This technology ensures that the sound of each instrument in a musical is clearly audible. Furthermore, it allows for a more accurate experience of the acoustic characteristics of the environment. In fact, the listener will feel as if they are not merely an audience member, but a part of the musical performance. Further applications include speakers and audio systems in mobile phones, television sets, and microphones.

[0061] It is understood that when this composition is applied in the manner described above, it affects the resistance and resistivity of the connection, thereby improving the sound quality from the audio device.

[0062] A significant advantage of this composition is its low manufacturing cost. According to the standards of other techniques sometimes used to improve the sound quality of audio devices, the use of the composition described herein is low-cost and effective.

[0063] The use of this composition reduces the input resistance to the audio circuit (whether it be a speaker, cable, or connector).

[0064] The technologies described herein have been tested with numerous audio devices, as described below. Examples include Yamaha HS5 monitor speakers and several headphones. A test panel was assembled consisting of professional sound engineers, musicians, audiophiles, music lovers, DJs, and professional music producers.

[0065] As described herein, this composition can be applied to any audio device. Examples include speakers, soundbars, headphones, earphones, amplifiers, audio mixers, microphones, mobile phones, TVs, musical instruments, and all audio cables (XLR, jack, Speak-On, RCA, etc.).

[0066] Device testing has shown that the device's input resistance / impedance, azimuth and zenith angles, static and moving sounds (distance and velocity), and dynamic range are all affected by using the composition in the manner described herein.

[0067] When used with Yamaha HS5 speakers and modified in the manner described herein, the effect is to produce sound in which lead vocals, background vocals, and instruments are experienced and perceived as being clearer and more separated, and to create an immersive spatial soundstage in which the user can no longer discern the source of the output.

[0068] Furthermore, the sound experience differs depending on the speaker settings. Specifically, if the speakers are placed, for example, 1.5 to 2 meters from a wall, the listening experience will differ depending on the listener's position: i. directly in front of the speakers, ii. directly behind the speakers, or iii. in the middle between the speakers.

[0069] Because the soundstage fills the space behind, in front of, and above the speakers, the point of origin of the output becomes indistinguishable, bringing new dimensions of depth, space, and separation to the stereo soundstage.

[0070] Speakers treated with this composition were tested outdoors. The speakers were tested in a garden with a swimming pool and in a field.

[0071] Generally, the generated sound is experienced and perceived as being taken in / projected above the speaker, resulting in improved clarity, better separation of lead vocals, background vocals, and instruments, and an immersive, spatial soundstage without any loss of sound quality compared to an indoor experience. The listener's sweet spot is identified as being in front of the speaker.

[0072] Furthermore, when the user is behind the speaker, the sound is perceived as if it were being played from 3-4 meters away from the front of the speaker.

[0073] We conducted tests with several different types of headphones, including over-ear and in-ear earphones.

[0074] The four exemplary devices tested are as follows: 1. In-ear headphones (wired) distributed free of charge by British Airways for use during flights. 2. Peavey headphones (wired), 3. MPOW18 headphones (wired), 4. Vivian Infinity GT1 earphones (Bluetooth).

[0075] Generally, the generated sound is experienced and perceived as having greater clarity, better separation of lead vocals, background vocals, and instruments, and a more immersive and improved spatial soundstage.

[0076] With speakers like the Yamaha HS5 speakers mentioned earlier, using unmodified connectors results in a sound signature of 40-50%. Using modified cables in this setup increases the "sound signature" to 50-65%. Adding modified XLR connectors to the output, in addition to the modified cables, increases the sound signature to 65-75%.

[0077] When a modified XLR connector is used with an unmodified speaker, the speaker's input impedance decreases by more than 50% compared to when an unmodified XLR connector is used.

[0078] When a modified XLR connector is used with an unmodified cable, the speaker impedance drops by more than 50% compared to when an unmodified XLR connector is used.

[0079] Embodiments of the present invention have been described with particular reference to illustrated examples. However, it will be understood that the described examples can be modified and altered within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A composition for application to connectors in audio circuits, Carbon nanotubes and Mineral components, Metal components, A composition containing the following:

2. The composition according to claim 1, wherein the mineral is selected from the group including quartz, sapphire, amethyst, moonstone, kyanite, and jade.

3. The composition according to claim 1 or claim 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 claim 4, wherein the paste has a liquid base provided with the carbon nanotubes, mineral components, and metallic components.

6. The composition according to claim 4, wherein the liquid base is deionized water.

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

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

1.

9. A composition according to any one of claims 1 to 8, for application to an audio motherboard, comprising carbon nanotubes, mineral components, and metallic components.

10. A connector for use in an audio circuit, having two or more contacts for receiving an electronic audio drive signal, wherein the contacts are provided with the composition described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. An audio device comprising an input contact configured 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 configured to be physically connected to an input cable when in use, and the input contact comprises 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 the group including speakers, headphones, amplifiers, over-ear earphones, and in-ear earphones.

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

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