Voice Controlled Electronic Devices

Abstract

To provide an array speaker in which a plurality of audio drivers can be dispersed in the radial direction in a speaker housing such that the output of a driver is distributed uniformly in the entire room.SOLUTION: There is provided an array speaker which is configured such that the geometric shape of an outlet of an audio driver assembly 202 is flipped back on an indication surface 216 on which the array speaker is installed in order to improve distribution of music over the entire room, and which includes a fastener having an elastomer grommet that reduces the intensity of the force generated by a sub-woofer of an upper housing component of the array speaker.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2A

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This disclosure applies generally to speakers, and in particular to an array of speakers housed within a cylindrical enclosure. [Background technology]

[0002] (CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims priority to U.S. application Ser. No. 15 / 613,054, filed June 2, 2017, U.S. application Ser. No. 15 / 613,060, filed June 2, 2017, U.S. application Ser. No. 15 / 613,063, filed June 2, 2017, U.S. application Ser. No. 15 / 613,066, filed June 2, 2017, U.S. application Ser. No. 15 / 613,073, filed June 2, 2017, and U.S. application Ser. No. 15 / 613,079, filed June 2, 2017. Each of these applications claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 399,165, filed September 23, 2016, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 399,229, filed September 23, 2016, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 399,262, filed September 23, 2016, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 399,293, filed September 23, 2016, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 399,288, filed September 23, 2016, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 507,007, filed May 16, 2017.

[0003] Conventional speakers are generally directional in nature, which can have the effect of leaving dead spots in a room. To achieve a substantially uniform level of audio performance throughout the room, an array of large speakers is often distributed around the room. Conventional speakers can also be subject to vibration excursion movements in certain playback regimes. For example, a subwoofer can cause significant noise and / or movement of the speaker depending on the volume and frequency of the music being played. Therefore, further improvements in speaker design are desirable. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure describes various embodiments relating to electronic devices incorporating a speaker or an array of speakers.

[0005] An array speaker is disclosed that includes an axisymmetric equipment housing, a plurality of audio driver assemblies radially distributed around an interior of the axisymmetric equipment housing, and a power supply unit disposed between two or more of the audio driver assemblies.

[0006] An electronic device is disclosed that includes audio driver assemblies arranged in a circular configuration within an electronic housing, with the diaphragm of each audio driver assembly arranged such that acoustic waves generated by the diaphragm are initially directed toward a central region of the circular configuration.

[0007] An electronic device is disclosed that includes an axisymmetric device and an array of audio driver assemblies disposed within the axisymmetric housing at regular radial intervals, each of the audio driver assemblies configured to generate acoustic waves that exit the substantially axisymmetric housing through an acoustic vent defined by a downwardly facing end of the axisymmetric housing.

[0008] An electronic device is disclosed that includes a subwoofer having a diaphragm, a coil coupled to the diaphragm and configured to generate a changing magnetic field, and a permanent magnet configured to interact with the changing magnetic field generated by the coil to move the diaphragm axially, the permanent magnet including lobes projecting radially therefrom.

[0009] A speaker is disclosed that includes an equipment housing and a subwoofer disposed within the equipment housing and having a diaphragm configured to oscillate in a direction aligned with a longitudinal axis of the equipment housing, the subwoofer including a permanent magnet with a plurality of protrusions distributed at regular radial intervals around the longitudinal axis of the equipment housing.

[0010] An electronic device is disclosed that includes an equipment housing, a subwoofer disposed in the equipment housing, the subwoofer including a permanent magnet having radially projecting lobes, an audio driver assembly disposed within the equipment housing, and a capacitor configured to provide power to the audio driver assembly and positioned between two of the lobes.

[0011] An audio driver is disclosed that includes a driver housing defining an audio exit opening, a diaphragm disposed within the driver housing, and a phase plug assembly disposed between the diaphragm and the audio exit opening, the diaphragm and the phase plug assembly separating a front volume from a rear volume, a portion of the rear volume extending beyond the diaphragm toward the audio exit opening.

[0012] An array speaker is disclosed that includes a first audio driver assembly disposed between a second audio driver assembly and a third audio driver assembly and including a driver housing defining an audio exit opening, a diaphragm disposed within the driver housing, and a phase plug disposed between the diaphragm and the audio exit opening, the phase plug separating a front volume from a rear volume, a portion of the rear volume extending beyond the diaphragm towards the audio exit opening.

[0013] An audio driver assembly is disclosed that includes a driver housing defining an audio exit opening, a phase plug separating a front volume from a rear volume, the phase plug having a portion of the rear volume extending toward the audio exit opening, a U-cup engaging the phase plug to define an interior volume, a diaphragm disposed within the interior volume, the diaphragm coupled to a conductive coil configured to generate a varying magnetic field, and a driver magnet coupled to the U-cup and configured to interact with the varying magnetic field. Interaction between the varying magnetic field and a portion of the magnetic field disposed in an air gap located between a top plate and an inwardly facing wall of the U-cup causes the diaphragm to vibrate within the interior volume.

[0014] A speaker is disclosed that includes an equipment housing, a user interface assembly disposed at an end of the equipment housing, a printed circuit board (PCB) secured to an inward facing surface of the user interface assembly, and a subwoofer configured to force air toward the PCB during operation of the speaker.

[0015] An electronic device is disclosed that includes a device housing, a user interface assembly, a printed circuit board (PCB) secured to an inward-facing surface of the user interface assembly, and an audio component having a diaphragm configured to force air toward the PCB during operation of the electronic device.

[0016] An array speaker is disclosed that includes an array of audio driver assemblies arranged in a circular geometric shape, a speaker housing defining an audio exit channel for each of the audio driver assemblies, and a base supporting the speaker housing, the base having a smaller diameter than the speaker housing, a surface of the base cooperating with a surface of the speaker housing to define an outlet area for the audio exit channel, and a first distance from a periphery of the base to an outer edge of the speaker housing is greater than a second distance from a distal end of the base to a downwardly facing surface of the speaker housing.

[0017] An electronic device is disclosed that includes an axisymmetric instrument housing, an audio driver assembly disposed within the axisymmetric instrument housing, and a pedestal having a diameter substantially smaller than the axisymmetric instrument housing, the pedestal cooperating with a downwardly facing surface of the axisymmetric instrument housing to define an audio exit area shaped to diffuse acoustic waves generated by the audio driver assembly as the acoustic waves exit the axisymmetric instrument housing.

[0018] An electronic device is disclosed that includes an electronic device including an appliance housing having an upper housing component and a lower housing component, an annular support member that engages with threads defined by the lower housing component, a subwoofer coupled to the annular support member, and a fastener that extends through an opening defined by the upper housing component and engages the annular support member.

[0019] An electronic device is disclosed that includes an instrument housing including a first housing component and a second housing component that cooperate to define an interior volume, an annular support member disposed within the interior volume and engaging threads arranged along an inwardly facing surface of the first housing component, and an audio component coupled to the annular support member, the audio component including a diaphragm configured to vibrate in a direction aligned with a longitudinal axis of the instrument housing.

[0020] A speaker device is disclosed that includes an axisymmetric device housing including an upper housing component and a lower housing component coupled to the upper housing component, a support structure that engages with threads disposed along an inwardly facing surface of the lower housing component and includes a first annular member and a second annular member coupled to the first annular member, a subwoofer coupled to the support structure and blocking a central opening defined by the support structure, and a fastener extending through the opening defined by the upper housing component and engaging the annular support member.

[0021] A user interface is disclosed that includes an exterior surface configured to receive touch input, a light source configured to direct light towards the exterior surface and arranged in a lenticular pattern, and an integral lens array disposed between the light source and the exterior surface, the lens array including lenses arranged in the lenticular pattern, each of the lenses protruding from a transparent substrate and having a surface facing a respective one of the light sources.

[0022] An electronic device is disclosed that includes an electronic device including an device housing and a user interface arranged along an exterior surface at a first end of the device housing, the user interface including a light source configured to illuminate an area of ​​the exterior surface and an integrated lens array including lenses arranged in a lens pattern, each of the lenses having a concave surface protruding from a transparent substrate and facing a respective one of the light sources.

[0023] A speaker device is disclosed that includes an appliance housing, a speaker driver assembly disposed within the appliance housing, and a user interface, the user interface configured to receive touch input, the user interface including a decorative surface arranged along an exterior surface of the appliance housing, a light source configured to emit light toward the decorative surface, and a lens array disposed between the light source and the decorative surface, the lens array including lenses arranged in a lens pattern, each of the lenses protruding from a transparent substrate and having a concave surface facing a respective one of the light sources.

[0024] Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the described embodiments. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0025] The present disclosure will be readily understood from the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals indicate like structural elements and in which: [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an array speaker. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the array speaker, showing only the components disposed in the lower third of the array speaker. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2 is a simplified diagram of one side of an array speaker and associated audio exit channels. [Figure 2C] 1 shows an internal schematic diagram of an audio exit channel associated with one of the audio drivers of the array speaker, illustrating how acoustic waves are propagated through the audio exit channel. [Figure 3A] 3 is a cross-sectional view of the array speaker taken along line AA in FIG. 2. [Figure 3B] 3 is a cross-sectional view of the array speaker taken along line BB in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of multiple driver assemblies. [Figure 5A] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a rear portion of the driver assembly. [Figure 5B] 11A-11C are cross-sectional views of different embodiments in which fasteners are used as part of the conductive path. [Figure 5C] 11A-11C are cross-sectional views of different embodiments in which fasteners are used as part of the conductive path. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the driver assembly. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the driver assembly. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the array speaker, showing only the components within the central portion of the array speaker. [Figure 9A] FIG. 2 shows a subwoofer including a magnet, the magnet extending radially from the subwoofer. [Figure 9B] 9B shows the subwoofer shown in FIG. 9A and a number of capacitors arranged around the subwoofer. [Figure 9C] FIG. 2 shows a subwoofer having a magnet with multiple lobes protruding therefrom. [Figure 9D] FIG. 9D shows the subwoofer shown in FIG. 9C and multiple capacitors arranged between multiple lobes of a magnet. [Figure 10A] 1 is a perspective view of a subwoofer with a lip having a number of notches configured to receive fasteners; [Figure 10B] FIG. 1 shows a grommet suitable for mounting a subwoofer. [Figure 11A] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of a convex user interface. [Figure 11B] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an assembled convex user interface. [Figure 11C] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a convex user interface installed in an array speaker. [Figure 12A] 1A-1D show various views of a seal for sealing a first inner portion of an instrument from a second inner portion of the instrument. [Figure 12B] 1A-1D show various views of a seal for sealing a first inner portion of an instrument from a second inner portion of the instrument. [Figure 12C] 1A-1D show various views of a seal for sealing a first inner portion of an instrument from a second inner portion of the instrument. [Figure 13A] FIG. 13 illustrates how the upper housing component can be attached to the lower housing component. [Figure 13B] FIG. 13 illustrates how the upper housing component can be attached to the lower housing component. [Figure 14A] 1A-1C are various views of the projection base. [Figure 14B] 1A-1C are various views of the projection base. [Figure 14C]1A-1C are various views of the projection base. [Figure 14D] 1A-1C are various views of the projection base. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is an exploded view of another convex user interface. [Figure 16A] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a downward surface of the lens array shown in FIG. [Figure 16B] 16B is a side cross-sectional view of the portion of the convex user interface shown in FIG. 15, including the lens array, taken along section line EE shown in FIG. 16A. [Figure 17A] FIG. 1 is an exploded cross-sectional view of an expandable opening defined by one end of an exterior fabric. [Figure 17B] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of exterior fabrics that are fully bonded together, illustrating how both ends of a drawstring can protrude from the same radial location on the exterior fabric. [Figure 17C] FIG. 13 is a top view of an exterior fabric placed around the upper housing component of the array speaker. [Figure 17D] FIG. 13 is a top view of an exterior fabric placed around the upper housing component of the array speaker. [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the halo assembly. [Figure 19] 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of a speaker device with a halo assembly installed therein. [Figure 20] 13A-13C show how fasteners can secure the upper housing component to the halo assembly. [Figure 21] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an alternative upper housing component defining a diamond shaped vent. [Figure 22] FIG. 1 illustrates different types of connected electronic devices that can communicate and / or interact with the array speaker. [Diagram 23] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing communication and interoperability between various electrical components of the array speaker. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0026] Representative examples of applications of the method and apparatus according to the present application are described in this section. These examples are provided only to provide further context and aid in understanding the described embodiments. Thus, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the described embodiments can be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other examples, well-known process steps have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the described embodiments. Other applications are possible, and therefore the following examples should not be construed as limiting.

[0027] In the following Detailed Description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part of the description and in which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in accordance with the described embodiments. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the described embodiments, but these examples are not to be understood as limiting, and thus other embodiments may be utilized and changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments.

[0028] Speaker configurations tend to be excessively large when high quality audio reproduction is desired and the audio output can be highly directional in nature, which often requires the user to be located in one specific location to obtain the desired quality level of audio content produced by the speakers. For example, a multi-channel speaker configuration requires mounting speakers in multiple different corners of a room to achieve a substantially uniform sound distribution in the room.

[0029] One way to reduce the size and simplify the speaker configuration while maintaining an even sound distribution in the room is to implement multiple drivers for mid to high frequencies in a single housing. The drivers can be distributed in the speaker device such that the audio exit channels associated with the drivers are distributed at regular radial intervals along the circumference of the speaker device. In some embodiments, beamforming techniques can be applied to improve audio performance by adjusting acoustic waves exiting from adjacent audio exit openings to form constructive interference. In one particular embodiment, the drivers can be arranged in a circular array in a cylindrical housing to achieve a flat radial distribution of sound waves. Destructive interference caused by reflections from the support surface on which the device is placed can be prevented by orienting the audio exit openings to the side of the support surface.

[0030] In some embodiments, the size of the speaker equipment can be reduced by tightly packing the various internal components. For example, a power supply unit can be located in a central cavity defined by a circular array of drivers. In some embodiments, a capacitor can be located between a centrally located subwoofer and a sidewall of the equipment housing of the speaker equipment. In one particular embodiment, the magnet of the subwoofer can be shaped in a particular way to accommodate a larger capacitor between the subwoofer and the sidewall of the speaker equipment.

[0031] Thermal isolation can also be important if the speaker equipment also includes processing components: in some embodiments, the main logic board of the speaker equipment can be placed in front of the subwoofer so that the air pushed by the subwoofer can convect heat away from the heat-generating components of the main logic board.

[0032] The implementation of a subwoofer within a speaker device can generate vibrations that can cause undesirable noise or movement of the speaker device within the speaker device. In some embodiments, the subwoofer can be attached to a mounting bracket within the device housing using fasteners that include elastomeric grommets. The elastomeric grommets can reduce the amount of vibration transmitted by the subwoofer to the rest of the speaker device.

[0033] In some embodiments, the mounting bracket can take the form of an annular support structure that is placed within an equipment housing of the speaker equipment by rotating the annular support structure along threads arranged along an inner surface of the equipment housing. The mounting bracket can be configured to receive fasteners and a subwoofer associated with an upper housing component of the equipment housing. In some embodiments, the annular support structure can be formed of two separate rings that are compressed together by a series of fasteners.

[0034] In some embodiments, the speaker device may include a pressure-sensitive user interface disposed on a top surface of the speaker device. The pressure-sensitive user interface may include illuminators that illuminate different regions of the pressure-sensitive user interface. For example, a central portion of the user interface may be illuminated with a changing color pattern in response to receiving or processing a voice command. The changing color pattern is created by an array of LEDs embedded beneath an exterior surface of the pressure-sensitive user interface. Other controls that are illuminated on the pressure-sensitive user interface may include a volume control. The pressure-sensitive user interface may utilize capacitive or other touch sensors suitable for detecting gesture-based touch input.

[0035] These and other embodiments are described below with reference to Figures 1-23. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the Detailed Description described herein with respect to these figures is for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.

[0036] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an array speaker 100. The array speaker 100 can have a solid, aesthetically pleasing exterior and a symmetrical substantially cylindrical geometry. As used herein, the term "substantially cylindrical geometry" refers to a geometry that is perfectly cylindrical (i.e., a geometry that includes straight, parallel sides and is circular or oval in cross section), as well as a geometry in which the sides of the upper and / or lower edges are tapered and more rounded than an actual cylinder. The array speaker 100 may also have other geometries. For example, an equipment housing for an array speaker can have many different axisymmetric shapes, which allows the audio equipment assemblies to be radially distributed within the equipment housing. An axisymmetric geometry refers to a shape that has symmetry about at least one axis. In the described embodiment, the equipment housing exhibits an axisymmetric geometry with symmetry about the longitudinal axis of the equipment housing. It should also be noted that the term "axisymmetric" may be interpreted to encompass shapes that are substantially symmetric about one axis. For example, for purposes of the following description, a small indentation or protrusion does not preclude a housing from being described as having an axisymmetric geometric shape.

[0037] The top portion of the array speaker 100 may include a user interface 102. The user interface 102 may allow a user to adjust settings of the array speaker 100. For example, track selection and volume changes may be handled by interacting with the user interface 102. In some embodiments, the user interface 102 may take the form of a touch-sensitive surface. The user interface 102 may include one or more light sources that illuminate various areas of the user interface 102 to assist the user in interacting with the user interface 102. A majority of the array speaker 100 may be covered with an acoustic fabric 104. The acoustic fabric 104 may give the array speaker 100 a matching exterior. Some audio exit ports may be shielded by the acoustic fabric 104, resulting in minimal impact on the volume and / or quality of the sound output from the array speaker 100.

[0038] 2A is a cross-sectional view of the array speaker 100, showing only the components disposed in the lower third of the array speaker 100. In particular, a cross-section of one audio driver assembly 202 is shown. The audio driver assembly 202 can include a driver housing 204 that encloses the audio components that make up the audio driver assembly 202 and defines a rectangular channel 206 for allowing acoustic waves generated by a diaphragm 207 of the audio driver assembly 202 to exit the driver housing 204. The audio driver assembly 202 can be secured to a lower housing component 208 by fasteners 210. The driver housing 204 can be rotated such that the rectangular channel 206 aligns with an audio exit channel 212 defined by the lower housing component 208. Acoustic waves 214 exiting the audio exit channels 212 pass through the acoustic fabric 104 and, due to the geometry of the exit of the audio exit channels 212, propagate along a support surface 216 on which the array speaker 100 rests. In some embodiments, the acoustic fabric 104 can have a pattern designed to hide components or features located underneath the acoustic fabric 104.

[0039] 2A also shows power terminals 220. The power terminals 220 may extend between two adjacent audio driver assemblies 202 to deliver power to various components in the array speaker 100. The power terminals 220 may be electrically connected to the power supply units 222 by conductive cables 224. In some embodiments, the power supply units 222 may be coupled to a power supply board 226, which is further coupled to the lower housing component 208. The power supply units 222 extend into a recess defined by the audio driver assemblies 202. The audio driver assemblies 202 are radially distributed at regular intervals around the array speaker 100. In this way, the power supply units 222 utilize the available space in the recess defined by the audio driver assemblies 202. In some embodiments, the amplifier board 228 and the components distributed thereon may also be electrically connected to the power supply units 222 and the power terminals 220 via conductive cables 224. 2A also shows a protruding pedestal 230 that supports the weight of the array speaker 100 on the support surface 216. The protruding pedestal 230 may be formed of a damping material, such as silicone, configured to minimize the amount of vibration transmitted from the array speaker 100 to the support surface 216. The protruding pedestal 230 may be configured to dissipate forces transmitted in the Z-axis direction as well as moments acting about the X-axis and / or Y-axis. The large area and symmetrical footprint of the protruding pedestal 230 helps prevent speaker rocking due to moments acting about the X-axis and / or Y-axis.

[0040] 2B shows an internal cross-sectional view of one side of the array speaker 100, showing the diaphragm 207 and the audio exit channel 212 associated with one of the audio driver assemblies 202. Various dimensions of the outlet of the audio exit channel 212 are shown in millimeters. In particular, the distance between the end of the audio exit channel 212 and the edge 229 of the side wall of the lower housing component 208 is about 1.5 times the height of the downward facing surface of the array speaker 100 from the support surface that supports the array speaker 100. The height of the pedestal 230 directly below the outlet region of the audio exit channel 212 is about 1 / 2 the distance from the support surface 216 and the top surface of the audio exit channel 212. In some embodiments, the thickness of the periphery of the pedestal 230 is about 6 / 11 of the distance 231 between the distal end of the pedestal 230 (or the support surface 216) and the top surface of the audio exit channel 212 in the outlet region. This geometry causes high frequency acoustic waves to move around the corners of the pedestal 230 and the corners of the outer edge of the housing such that flat vertical directivity is achieved for both low and high frequency acoustic waves. Distance 232 between the edge of the lower housing component 208 and the periphery of the pedestal may be slightly longer than distance 231. This allows the downwardly facing surface of lower housing component 208 to help shape the acoustic waves as they propagate away from the speaker device. In some embodiments, the ratio of distance 231 to distance 232 may be about 11 / 15.

[0041] FIG. 2C shows an internal schematic view of the lower region of the array speaker 100. FIG. 2C shows how a diaphragm 207 associated with one of the audio driver assemblies 202 can be configured to output acoustic waves through a number of vertical slots 233 defined by the lower housing component 208. The dashed lines 234 shown in the rectangular channel 206 and the audio exit channel 212 represent the sound waves generated by the diaphragm 207. In particular, the dashed lines 234 are shown redirecting in different regions of the rectangular channel 206 and the audio exit channel 212. These channels are purposely shaped to minimize destructive interference caused by the vibration of the diaphragm 207 that may adversely affect the quality and / or volume. For example, the turns in the audio channel direct the acoustic waves to maintain a coherent wavefront along the length of the audio channel. The shape of the audio channel also helps direct the acoustic waves in a radially outward and upwardly oriented direction 236, resulting in a spherically expanding wavefront moving away from the support surface on which the lower housing component 208 rests. Although the acoustic waves are shown in two dimensions by dashed lines 234, it should be understood that the acoustic waves have a three-dimensional profile extending circumferentially within and from the lower housing component 208. FIG. 2C also illustrates how the acoustic waves generated by the diaphragm 602 are redirected in a direction substantially orthogonal to the original direction in which the acoustic waves were initially generated. For example, the direction of the acoustic waves may shift by 70-80 degrees before exiting the driver housing 204 through the audio exit opening 710.

[0042] FIG. 3A shows a cross-sectional view of the array speaker 100 through section line AA in FIG. 2A. Each driver assembly includes an adapter 302 configured to position a phase plug 304 within the driver housing 204. The phase plug 304 reduces destructive interference by guiding the acoustic waves from the large surface area of ​​the diaphragm to the small entrance area of ​​the horn throat, rather than allowing the waves to interact destructively near the diaphragm. The phase plug also helps shape the sound waves exiting the audio driver assembly 202 to match the non-circular, and in some cases more rectangular, channels 206 and audio exit channels 212. The periphery of the diaphragm associated with the coil assembly 306 engages with the phase plug 304 as shown. The coil assembly 306 is attached to a central portion of the diaphragm and includes a coil of wire configured to generate a moving magnetic field configured to interact with a permanent magnet 308, thereby generating acoustic waves. When the moving magnetic field interacts with the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet 308, the diaphragm vibrates at a suitable rate to generate an acoustic wave associated with the media file being played by the array speaker 100. Behind the permanent magnet 308 is a support assembly in the form of a magnetic motor assembly including a U-cup 310, a top plate 311, and the permanent magnet 308. In addition to providing a surface on which the magnet 308 can be mounted, the U-cup 310 directs the magnetic field generated by the magnet 308 to an air gap in which a coil is located. Behind the U-cup 310 is a foam layer 312, which can be formed from an open-cell foam. The foam layer 312 can improve the audio performance of the audio driver assembly 202. In some embodiments, the foam layer 312 can increase the apparent size of the rear volume of the audio driver assembly 202. Finally, a lid 314 is secured to the driver housing 204 to close the opening at the rear of the audio driver assembly 202. This rear opening in the driver housing 204 can be used to insert the audio components described above into the driver housing 204.FIG. 3A also shows how the channels 206 leading from the driver housing 204 can be distributed at regular radial intervals.

[0043] 3B shows a cross-sectional view of the array speaker 100 through section line BB in FIG. 2A. In this view, the top surface of the driver housings 204 is shown. Each driver housing has two driver screw terminals 316. The driver screw terminals 316 can be used to form conductive paths between audio components in the driver housings 204 and other components of the array speaker 100.

[0044] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of each of the audio driver assemblies 202. In particular, the lid 314 is shown closing the rear opening to the driver housing 204. Each audio driver assembly 202 is also shown with an alignment bracket 402. The alignment bracket 402 can be configured to form a buffer between each audio driver assembly 202 and the lower housing component 208. The alignment bracket 402 can also be configured to assist in aligning the amplifier board 228 with the driver screw terminals 316. The amplifier board 228 is configured to support capacitors 404 and other electronic components, such as electronic components 406. The capacitors 404 are configured to provide power to the audio driver assemblies 202. In particular, power from the capacitors 404 can be used to support separate amplification channels that provide power to each audio driver assembly 202. The amplifier board 228 is also shown with terminals 408. Each terminal 408 can be configured to receive a fastener for coupling the amplifier board 228 to the driver screw terminals 316. In this manner, the amplifier board 228 may be rigidly coupled to each of the audio driver assemblies 202 .

[0045] FIG. 5A shows a perspective view of a rear portion of audio driver assembly 202. Lid 314 has been removed from audio driver assembly 202 to reveal the rearward facing surface of U-cup 310. U-cup 310 is coupled to a peripheral tab portion 508 of phase plug 304. Also shown are wires 502 that can electrically connect audio components of audio driver assembly 202 to corresponding driver screw terminals 316. Amplifier board 228 is shown fastened to audio driver assembly 202 by fasteners 504 that engage driver screw terminals 316. FIG. 5A also shows the rear of U-cup 310, where U-cup includes an engagement feature 506 that engages tab 508 of phase plug 304.

[0046] 5B illustrates a cross-sectional view of fasteners 504 engaging driver screw terminals 316. Fasteners 504 may be conductive fasteners and may be configured to carry signals received from terminals 408 disposed on amplifier board 228. In some embodiments, amplifier board 228 may also include lower terminals 507 disposed on a lower surface of amplifier board 228. In some embodiments, lower terminals 507 may be pressed against driver screw terminals 316, which may carry signals or establish a ground path between lower terminals 507 and driver screw terminals 316 along conductive paths 509. Those signals may then be carried to wires 502 soldered to a lower portion of driver screw terminals 316. The signals may include instructions to generate acoustic waves using audio components within driver housing 204. In some embodiments, one of wires 502 may be used to receive instructions and the other wires 502 may be configured to receive power. In some embodiments, one of wires 502 may function as a ground path.

[0047] 5C illustrates another embodiment in which the fastener 504 engages an opening defined by the driver housing 204. If the driver housing 204 is made of an electrically insulating material, one or more of the wires 502 can transmit electrical signals and power to the driver housing 204. In some embodiments, a metal sheet 510 can be disposed between the driver housing 204 and the amplifier board 228. The metal sheet 510 can be bent to help define the conductive path 509 toward the exterior surface of the driver housing 204. The metal sheet 510 can also define an opening or cutout configured to accommodate the fastener 504. In some embodiments, the wires 502 can be soldered to the metal sheet 510.

[0048] FIG. 6 shows an exploded view of the audio driver assembly 202. An adapter 302 can be inserted into the driver housing 204. The driver housing 204 can include an interior feature suitable for receiving the adapter 302. The adapter 302 can define an opening that allows acoustic waves to pass through the adapter 302 and exit the driver housing 204. A rearward facing surface of the adapter 302 can be configured to receive protrusions of a phase plug 304. The phase plug 304 defines a number of openings that shape the acoustic waves to prevent destructive interference as they are directed toward an exit of the driver housing 204. The phase plug 304 is also shown with tabs 508 that are configured to be engaged by engagement features 506 of the U-cup 310.

[0049] FIG. 6 also shows the coil assembly 306, which includes a diaphragm 602 and a coil 604. The coil 604 is electrically connected to a power source such that it can receive an alternating current. The alternating current causes the coil 604 to output a moving magnetic field that interacts with the magnetic field emitted by the permanent magnet 308 of the magnetic motor assembly. This interaction results in the coil assembly 306 moving back and forth between the phase plug 304 and the U-cup 310. The direction of motion of the coil assembly 306 can be defined by the circumferential current flow direction in the coil and the direction of the magnetic flux generated by the permanent magnet 308 that is oriented radially in the air gap between the top plate 606 and the U-cup 310. The direction of force is perpendicular to both the current flow and the magnetic flux lines in the coil 604. The movement in that direction is made possible by the flexible surrounding portion of the diaphragm 602. The plate 606 can be coupled to the permanent magnet 308 and can be designed to help shape the magnetic flux flow generated by the permanent magnet 308. A force applied to the coil 604 results in movement of the diaphragm 602 , generating an acoustic wave that propagates through the phase plug 304 and then exits the driver housing 204 .

[0050] FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view of the audio driver assembly 202. In particular, a rear volume 702 of the audio driver assembly 202 is shown. In general, the rear volume refers to an open area in the speaker housing that contains air, and is in fluid communication with the rear-facing surface of the diaphragm, but not with the listener. Similarly, the front volume refers to another open area in the speaker housing that contains air, and is in fluid communication with both the forward-facing surface of the diaphragm and the listener. Increasing the rear volume 702 increases the amount of air behind the diaphragm 602, helping to increase the low frequency output at a given power output for the audio driver assembly 202. The foam layer 312 can increase the apparent size of the rear volume 702, which increases the apparent volume of the rear volume 702 by slowing down the air in the rear volume. Additionally, the portion 704 of the rear volume that is in front of the diaphragm can enlarge the rear volume 702. By leaving an air gap 706 between the phase plug 304 and the driver housing 204, additional open space can be added to the overall volume of the rear volume 702. In some embodiments, this additional volume in front of the diaphragm 602 can significantly improve audio performance when the diaphragm 602 vibrates in the direction indicated by the arrow 708. In some embodiments, the total of the rear volume 702 and the front rear volume 704 can be approximately 17 CC (cm3). FIG. 7 also shows magnetic flux flow lines 710, illustrating how both the U-cup 310 and the plate 606 cooperate to define a magnetic flux flow path for the magnetic field emanating from the permanent magnet 308. In this way, the magnetic field can be concentrated around the path traversed by the coil 604 during operation of the audio driver assembly 202.

[0051] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the array speaker 100, with only the components within the central portion of the array speaker 100 shown. FIG. 8 shows a subwoofer 802 and a microphone 804. The subwoofer 802 includes a permanent ring magnet 806 for driving a coil 808 and a diaphragm 810 of the subwoofer 802. Note that the diaphragm 810 can also be referred to as a cone. The term "cone" often refers to a rigid vibrating member associated with a subwoofer for the purposes of this description, but the vibrating member of the subwoofer will generally be described as a diaphragm. The subwoofer 802 can be attached to the lower housing component 208 by a damper coupling 812, which can minimize the amount of force and / or vibration transferred from the subwoofer 802 to the lower housing component 208. The magnetic field emitted by the ring magnet 806 can be shaped by a pole structure 814 and a plate structure 816. The air gap between the pole structure 814 and the plate structure 816 may help concentrate the magnetic field emitted by the ring magnet 806 around the coil 808 . The location of the subwoofer 802 in the upper portion of the housing allows the area below the subwoofer 802 to be used as a rear volume for enhancing the acoustic waves generated by the subwoofer 802. Although not shown, this rear volume area contains the audio driver assembly 202. This works well because the acoustic waves generated by the audio driver assembly 202 are insulated by the housing 204 of the audio driver assembly 202, and the acoustic waves generated by the audio driver assembly 202 exit the bottom end of the equipment housing.

[0052] FIG. 8 also illustrates how the microphones 804 can be radially distributed as shown in FIG. 8. In some embodiments, a flexible ribbon cable or a flexible PCB 818 can be utilized to electrically connect each of the microphones 804 together. In some embodiments, the microphones 804 can be configured to detect both internal and external audio sources. In some embodiments, the microphones 804 can be configured to monitor the inside of the array speaker 100 for distortion or overdrive to prevent damage to the speaker. In some embodiments, the microphones 804 can be configured to relay audible user commands to a processor of the array speaker 100. For example, the microphones 804 can be aligned with and sealed across an opening in a sidewall of an instrument housing, allowing the multiple microphones 804 to cooperatively triangulate the location of any acoustic waves detected by two or more microphones 804.

[0053] 9A illustrates how magnets 806 of a subwoofer 802 can extend radially around the periphery of the subwoofer 802, according to one embodiment. As the magnets 806 extend radially from the subwoofer 802, the diameter of the capacitors 404 is limited. For this reason, more capacitors 404 may be required to power the audio driver assembly 202 than would be required for a larger diameter capacitor, as shown in FIG. 9B. In general, using a larger number of capacitors 404 tends to be more expensive and takes up a larger amount of space on the amplifier board 228.

[0054] FIG. 9C illustrates a subwoofer 902 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure that includes a magnet 904 instead of magnet 806. The magnet 904 includes multiple protruding lobes 906 that can extend radially near or, in some cases, all the way to the inward-facing surface of the lower housing component 208. While the magnet 904 is shown with three lobes 906, it should be understood that the magnet 904 can have any number of lobes 906, so long as they are evenly spaced and distributed around the magnet 904. For example, four narrower lobes may be utilized. Distributing the lobes evenly helps to ensure that the magnetic field emitted by the magnet 904 is not asymmetrical. It should be understood that in addition to the lobes 906, an upper plate 908 directly above the magnet 904 and a lower plate directly below the magnet 904 can be shaped to match the lobes 906 of the magnet 904. FIG. 9D illustrates how the lobes 906 of the magnet 904 leave enough space for a larger diameter capacitor 912. Configured in this manner, a larger diameter capacitor 912 may be used to power the audio driver assembly 202 (not shown). In some embodiments, this may allow more power to be provided to the audio driver assembly 202, which may result in a higher quality driver assembly 202 and / or a louder audio output.

[0055] FIG. 10A shows a perspective view of the subwoofer 802. The subwoofer 802 includes a lip with multiple notches configured to receive fasteners. The lip is used to secure the subwoofer 802 to the housing of the array speaker 100. Unfortunately, the inertia of the moving mass of the subwoofer 802 creates a force in the Z axis and a moment about the X and Y axes, which can lead to noticeable shaking and hopping of the array speaker 100. This can lead to the array speaker 100 moving laterally while playing music and creating a risk of falling. The motion caused by the subwoofer 802 can also create vibrations throughout the system, which can cause audible noise and potentially result in premature component failure or disconnection. Also, the vertical motion of the array speaker in the Z axis can make the touch interface located on the top of the array speaker 100 more difficult to use. For example, vertical movement of the array speaker 100 may cause a user to touch the wrong part of the touch interface or to input earlier than desired.

[0056] 10A shows a solution to this problem. A number of elastomeric grommets 1002 and shoulder screws 1004 can be used to secure a flange 1006 of the subwoofer 802 to a mounting feature in the array speaker 100. This can be accomplished by sliding each grommet 1002 into a notch 1008 defined by the flange 1006. Once tightened into the notch 1008, the shoulder screw 1004 can be inserted into an opening defined by the grommet 1002. A shoulder portion of the shoulder screw 1004 can be placed into the opening defined by the grommet 1002, and the threaded portion of the shoulder screw 1004 can be used to engage the mounting feature.

[0057] FIG. 10B shows a perspective view of a grommet 1002, which may be made from a highly damping rubber and may have a particular geometry to achieve optimal stiffness characteristics to dampen vibrations generated by the subwoofer 802. The grommet 1002 may define a U-shaped channel 1010 configured to allow the grommet 1002 to slide into one of the notches 1008. When the flange 1006 engages within the U-shaped channel 1010, the shape of the U-shaped channel 1010 acts as an anti-rotation feature that prevents the grommet 1002 from rotating within the notch 1008. This may be helpful when turning the shoulder screw 1004 within the mounting feature. The grommet 1002 also includes a protrusion 1012 that protrudes from an upper flange 1014. The protrusion 1012 also protrudes from a lower flange 1016. The protrusions 1012 may also be configured to allow for easier compression when the shoulder screws 1004 pass through the openings 1018 and engage the grommet 1002. The height and / or width of the protrusions 1012 may be adjusted to adjust the overall stiffness provided by the grommet 1002.

[0058] FIG. 11A shows an exploded view of a convex user interface 1100. The decorative layer 1102 can be formed of glass or plastic and configured to provide a smooth surface on which a user can comfortably input. The illustrated pattern on the decorative layer 1102 includes symbols corresponding to increasing and decreasing settings. In some embodiments, the plus (+) and minus (-) symbols can be applied to increase the volume or skip a track within a song. For example, a long press of the plus (+) can be configured to increase the volume, and a short press can skip to the next track in a media playlist. The decorative layer 1102 can be bonded to an adhesive layer 1104. The adhesive layer 1104 can bond the decorative layer to wedges 1106, which can bond the wedges 1106 to a touch / LED substrate 1108. The adhesive layer 1104 can define a number of openings configured to reduce attenuation of touch signals caused by the adhesive layer 1104. The wedges 1106 can define a convex geometric shape of the user interface 1100. The dielectric constant of the wedges 1106 can be tailored to efficiently transfer touch input from the decorative layer 1102 to the touch / LED substrate 1108. Some of the openings defined by the adhesive layer 1104 and the wedges 1106 can be designed to accommodate fasteners 1110 that secure the touch / LED substrate 1108 to a mounting frame 1112. The light guides 1114 can be configured to direct light emitted by a light source coupled to the touch / LED substrate 1108 directly towards the decorative layer 1102 of the user interface 1100. In some embodiments, the openings defined by the different openings can be configured to allow light from an LED disposed on the touch / LED substrate 1108 to illuminate a portion of the decorative layer 1102.

[0059] 11B is a cross-sectional view of the assembled convex user interface 1100. LEDs 1116 are shown on the top and bottom surfaces of the touch / LED substrate 1108. In this manner, the top LEDs 1116 can shine light directly towards the decorative layer 1102. The bottom LEDs 1116 shine light into a recess defined by the mounting frame 1112. The light emitted by the bottom LEDs 1116 can then be deflected by the light guide 1114 towards another opening below the plus (+) and minus (-) indicators in the decorative layer 1102.

[0060] FIG. 11C shows a cross-sectional view of the array speaker 100 with the convex user interface 1100 disposed thereon. Acoustic waves 1118 are shown generated in a vertical direction by the vibration of the subwoofer 802. In some embodiments, the vibration can be aligned with the longitudinal axis of the lower housing component 208. In this case, the term "aligned" is used to mean that the direction of motion is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the lower housing component 208. The acoustic waves 1118 are configured to exit the array speaker 100 through the vents 1120. A main logic board 1122 is shown clamped to the bottom surface of the convex user interface 1100. The main logic board 1122 can include one or more heat-generating components, such as a processor. The acoustic waves 1118 incident on the main logic board 1122 can dissipate heat generated by the heat-generating components of the main logic board 1122. In some embodiments, heat generated by the touch / LED substrate 1108 may be conducted to the main logic board 1122 where it may be convectively dissipated by air displaced by the acoustic waves 1118. In some embodiments, if heat dissipation is a priority, the subwoofer 802 may be configured to operate at a sub-audio frequency designed to maximize the amount of air displaced from the main logic board 1122. In some embodiments, the array speaker 100 may include various sensors within the subwoofer 802 that identify high heat load conditions where heat dissipation is a priority. For example, thermal sensors may be attached to the surface of the main logic board 1122. Additionally, various flow rate sensors may be positioned between the subwoofer 802 and the vent 1120 to identify if the vent is blocked. Additionally, the subwoofer 802 may be configured to vibrate at a frequency that generates tactile feedback along the exterior surface of the convex user interface 100. For example, the subwoofer 802 can be instructed to operate at a frequency that generates haptic feedback in response to one or more different types of user input.

[0061] FIG. 11C also shows a seal 1124 configured to seal the rear volume of the subwoofer 802. The seal 1124 may help prevent the upper housing component 1126 from vibrating against the lower housing component 208. FIG. 11C also shows a vibrating ring 1125 twisting along threads 1128. The vibrating ring 1125, formed of a polymeric material, twists downward until it engages a channel defined by the alignment bracket 402 of the driver housing 204 of each driver to prevent vibration of the audio driver assembly 202. In some embodiments, the vibrating ring 1125 may include at least three rows of threads around the circumference of the vibrating ring 1125.

[0062] FIG. 12A shows a perspective view of the seal 1124. The seal 1124 is arranged in a loop and can form a seal around an audio component clamped to the lower housing component 208. The seal 1124 is configured to seal across parting lines and accommodate the tolerances of injection molded plastic parts. The seal 1124 can be constructed of multiple layers. FIG. 12B shows a cross-section of the seal 1124 through cut line CC. The cross-section shows how the two flexible foam layers 1202 can be bonded together by the rigid plastic layer 1204. The rigid plastic layer 1204 can increase the reliability of the installation by helping to maintain the shape of the seal 1124. This design can provide better performance at a lower cost than a typical O-ring. FIG. 12C shows a close-up view of the seal 1124 arranged between the upper housing component 1126 and the support halo 1206.

[0063] 13A-13B show how the upper housing component 1126 can be attached to the lower housing component 208. Both the upper housing component 1126 and the lower housing component 208 include a number of individual thread segments. The thread segments are arranged on an outward facing surface of the upper housing component 1126 and an inward facing surface of the lower housing component 208. To attach the upper housing component 1126 and the lower housing component 208 together, the thread segment 1302 of the upper housing component 1126 can be aligned with the thread segment 1304 of the lower housing component 208. The upper housing component 1126 can then be lowered until the thread segments 1302 and 1304 contact one another. The upper housing component 1126 can then be twisted to move the thread segment 1302 to the right until the thread segment 1302 passes the thread segment 1304 and then contacts the thread segment 1306. After thread segment 1302 contacts thread segment 1306, upper housing component 1126 can be twisted in the opposite direction to move thread segment 1302 to the left until thread segment 1302 passes thread segment 1306 and contacts thread segment 1308. Upper housing component 1126 can continue to move in alternating directions until thread segment 1310 is secured against locking surface 1312 of thread segment 1314. Thread segment 1310 can have a locking feature 1316 configured to engage locking surface 1312. Due to an area surrounding locking feature 1316 being removed from upper housing component 1126, locking feature 1316 can flex. FIG. 13B shows the upper housing component 1126 locked to the lower housing component 208 by interaction between the locking surface 1312 and the locking feature 1316 .

[0064] 14A-14D show the protruding pedestal 230. FIG. 14A shows the protruding pedestal 230 directly below the array speaker 100. The protruding pedestal 230 is configured to support the weight of the array speaker 100 above a support surface and dissipate any vibrations propagating through the array speaker 100. FIG. 14B shows a perspective view of the protruding pedestal 230. An inner layer 1402 of the protruding pedestal 230 can be made of a somewhat rigid but flexible material, such as polycarbonate. An outer layer 1404, made of a more flexible material, such as silicone, can be configured to dissipate vibrations transmitted to the protruding pedestal 230. Unfortunately, with more standard vibration dissipating pedestals, vibrations can be severe enough to cause bouncing or lateral displacement.

[0065] FIG. 14C shows a top view of the protruding pedestal 230, in detail with the cutting line DD bisecting the protruding pedestal 230. FIG. 14D shows the inner layer 1402 and the outer layer 1404. When a force 1406 acts on the protruding pedestal 230, not only the thickness of the outer layer 1404 serves to dissipate any vibrations transmitted to the protruding pedestal 230, but as shown, the protruding arms 1408 deform radially to absorb part of the force 1406 associated with the vibration. The result of the radial deformation is that the vertical vibrations are translated horizontally and the vertical vibrations are greatly reduced. Another positive effect of the radial deformation is that the outer layer 1404 comes into more contact with the support surface, increasing the friction between the protruding pedestal 230 and the support surface, and as a result, the resistance of the array speaker to lateral displacement increases. In some embodiments, the protruding base 230 and the grommet 1002 work together to dampen unwanted vibrations of the array speaker 100. In some embodiments, a ring of foam 1410 can be added along the periphery of the protruding base 230, which can be configured to prevent unwanted vibrations of the periphery of the protruding base 230. In this manner, the foam 1410 is positioned to prevent vibrations that may cause annoying vibrations if the speaker device generates acoustic waves that may resonate within the protruding base 230.

[0066] FIG. 15 illustrates an exploded view of an alternative convex user interface 1500 that differs in several respects from the user interface illustrated in FIGS. 11A-11C. In particular, the convex user interface 1500 includes two separate touch interface areas that are illuminated. The user interface 1500 includes a mounting frame 1502 that defines a channel 1503 that extends along the periphery of the mounting frame 1502. The channel 1503 can be configured to receive a drawstring associated with an acoustic fabric that covers the array speaker 100. The channel 1503 allows each end of the drawstring to be conveniently wrapped around the mounting frame 1502 along the channel 1503. The mounting frame 1502 also defines a plurality of recesses 1504 that are configured to receive and house light emitting components. In particular, the light emitting components include an LED array substrate 1506 and a light source 1508. The LED array substrate 1506 includes an array of LEDs 1510. Each of the LEDs 1510 can be configured to emit light of three or more colors. The LEDs 1510 can also be configured to cooperatively generate various designs associated with the first touch interface region. The light sources 1508 can each include one or more LEDs for emitting light of one or more colors associated with the second touch interface region. The interposer substrate 1512 can be configured to set a separation distance between the LED array substrate 1506 and a touch printed circuit board (PCB) 1514. The interposer substrate 1512 can define an opening that allows light generated by the LEDs 1510 to pass through the interposer substrate 1512. The interposer substrate 1512 can take the form of an electrically insulating layer with conductive edge plating arranged along a periphery thereof, the conductive edge plating being for transmitting power and signals between the touch PCB 1514 and the LED array substrate 1506. In this manner, the light emitted by the LEDs 1510 can be modulated according to touch input processed by components associated with the touch PCB 1514. The touch PCB 1514 defines a number of apertures through which light generated by the light emitting components passes.In particular, the volume control opening 1516 may have the shape of a plus (+) symbol to increase the volume and a minus (-) symbol to decrease the volume of a speaker system associated with the user interface 1500.

[0067] FIG. 15 also shows fasteners 1518 that can be configured to secure the touch PCB 1514 to the mounting frame 1502. In some embodiments, the fasteners 1518 can be self-tapping screws that thread within openings defined by the mounting frame 1502. An adhesive layer 1522 can couple the touch PCB 1514 to a wedge 1520. Both the adhesive layer 1522 and the wedge 1520 can include openings through which light emitted by the light emitting components can pass. The adhesive layer 1522 and the wedge 1520 can also include openings to accommodate the heads of the fasteners 1518. The wedge 1520 can be configured such that the central region is significantly thicker than the peripheral regions, giving the user interface 1500 a curved or convex exterior geometry. The central region of the wedge 1520 includes an opening to accommodate a diffuser assembly 1523 configured to diffuse light received from the LEDs 1510. The diffuser assembly 1523 includes a lens array 1524 with individual diffusion optics for each LED 1510. In some embodiments, the lens array 1524 can take the form of a sheet of glass that diffuses the light from each LED 1510. In another embodiment, the lens array 1524 can include multiple individual lenses that diffuse the light. The lens array 1524 can be secured to the touch PCB 1514 by an adhesive foam ring 1526. In some embodiments, a touch plate 1528 can be secured to the downward facing surface of the lens array 1524. An opening defined by the touch plate 1528 can accommodate the lens protrusions of the lens array 1524. The touch plate 1528 can take the form of a thin conductive plate that improves capacitive coupling of touch input received by the user interface 1500. The touch plate can be electrically connected to the touch PCB 1514. In some embodiments, the flat surface of the touch plate 1514 can include a touch sensor optimized to read input made at the convex decorative touch surface of the user interface 1500.For example, the density of the sensing grid associated with the touch plate 1514 can have a variety of densities to allow the input provided to conform to the curvature of the exterior surface. In this manner, a consistent user input can be achieved across the entire exterior touch surface of the user interface 1500, thereby avoiding a situation where touch input is read at a different rate along the periphery of the touch sensor than in the center. The upward facing surface of the lens array 1524 can be secured to the first diffuser plate 1530 by adhesive strips 1532 arranged along the periphery of the lens array 1524. A layer 1534 of diffuser film can be disposed between the first diffuser plate 1530 and the lens array 1524 for further light diffusion. The first diffuser plate 1530 can also be configured to increase the amount of diffusion of light emitted by the LEDs 1510.

[0068] In some embodiments, the first diffuser plate 1530 can be made of a clear polycarbonate resin that is doped with particles having a different refractive index. For example, the polycarbonate resin can be doped with titanium oxide particles that not only give the first diffuser plate 1530 a white appearance, but also help to further diffuse the light passing through the first diffuser plate 1530. The first diffuser plate 1530 is secured to the second diffuser plate 1536 by adhesive strips 1532 arranged along the periphery of the first diffuser plate 1530. The adhesive strips 1532 can be sized to create a small air gap between the first and second diffuser plates. The second diffuser plate 1536 can have a domed surface that helps the diffuser assembly 1523 achieve the same curvature as the wedge 1520. Finally, a fade film 1538 can be applied to the upwardly facing surface of the second diffuser plate 1536. The fade film can take the form of a radially graduated filter that feathers the light intensity along the periphery of the light emitted by the LEDs 1510. In this manner, the fade film 1538 prevents the adhesive layer 1540 from suddenly changing from illuminated to unilluminated in the central region of the top cover 1542. The top cover 1542 can take the form of a layer of transparent polymeric material, such as glass or a polycarbonate material. In some embodiments, the top cover 1542 can include an ink layer that further diffuses the light passing through the top cover 1542. In some embodiments, the light emitted by the LEDs 1510 and diffused by the diffusing elements described above can cooperatively generate a mixed light having a diameter of about 3 centimeters.

[0069] 16A shows the downward facing surface of the lens array 1524. As shown, the lens array 1524 takes the form of a single piece of molded glass with separate optics for multiple different light sources. In particular, the lens array 1524 includes convex lenses 1602 for diffusing light from 19 LEDs 1510 arranged in a honeycomb pattern. It should be understood that a greater or lesser number of LEDs 1510 may be accommodated in the lens array 1524. Additionally, the convex lenses 1602 may be arranged in an irregular pattern or in a different regular pattern, such as a square grid.

[0070] FIG. 16B shows a side cross-sectional view of a portion of the convex user interface 1500 including the lens array 1524, taken along section line EE. In this view, the adhesive layer has been omitted for clarity. In particular, LEDs 1510 are shown mounted on an LED array substrate 1506. Five LEDs 1510 are shown emitting light into the lens array 1524. Convex lenses 1602 of the lens array 1524 diffuse light received from the LEDs 1510 before the light enters the first diffuser plate 1530 and the second diffuser plate 1536. As shown, each of the convex lenses 1602 includes a concave surface that is directed toward a respective one of the LEDs 1510. The diffuser plate can be configured to further diffuse the light before it exits through the top cover 1542. The light emitted from each LED 1510 can mix with light from adjacent ones of the LEDs 1510 by the time the light exits through the top cover 1542. In this manner, a relatively small number of LEDs can cooperate to form a mixed light pattern at the exterior surface defined by the top cover 1542. In some embodiments, the light emerging along the exterior surface can have a total diameter of about 30 mm, and the light from each LED 1510 can be spread over a diameter of about 7 mm.

[0071] FIG. 17A shows an exploded cross-sectional view of an expandable opening defined by one end of fabric 1700. Fabric 1700 can be in the form of a tube with fixed size openings at a first end and a resilient and / or expandable second end. FIG. 17A shows the expandable second end. Fabric layers 1702, 1704, and 1706 can be configured to provide a decoratively pleasing exterior to the speaker device without impeding the passage of acoustic waves generated by the speaker device. Fabric layers 1702, 1704, and 1706 can be formed of materials such as polyester, nylon, and polyurethane. In some embodiments, fabric layer 1702 can have a diamond pattern that defines an array of diamond-shaped openings that limit the amount of resistance created by fabric layer 1702. Fabric layer 1702 can be adhered to fabric layer 1704 by adhesive layer 1708. Although adhesive layer 1708 is shown as a solid layer, it should be understood that the adhesive can be formed to have the same pattern as fabric layer 1702. In this way, no adhesive material can be exposed at the outer surface of fabric 1700. An inner lip of fabric layer 1704 can be bonded to fabric layer 1706 by adhesive ring 1710. Fabric layer 1706 can then be secured to upper housing component 1126 (not shown in this view, see FIG. 13B). In this way, fabric 1700 can be securely bonded to the speaker device.

[0072] 17A also shows a sewn threader 1712. In some embodiments, the sewn threader 1712 can be sewn into the lip of the fabric layer 1702. The sewn threader 1712 can be in the form of a fiber arranged in a plurality of loops arranged along the lip of the fabric 1700 and sized to accommodate a tightening string 1714. The tightening string 1714 can be threaded through an opening defined by the loop of the sewn threader 1712. The opening defined by the lip of the fabric 1700 can be expanded or contracted by pulling on both ends of the tightening string 1714 to attach the fabric 1700 to a speaker device or by loosening the tightening string 1714 to remove the fabric 1700 from the speaker device.

[0073] 17B is a cross-sectional view of the fully bonded together fabric assembly 1700, showing how both ends of the drawstring 1714 can extend from the same radial location of the fabric assembly 1700. The drawstring 1714 can be long enough to wrap around a mounting frame associated with the user interface of the speaker device, allowing the drawstring to smoothly contract the opening 1716 defined by the fabric 1700. In some embodiments, the sewn threads 1712 and drawstring 1714 can be replaced with elastic loops insert molded around the lip of the fabric 1700. The elastic loops can act similar to rubber bands and have the elasticity to hold the fabric securely in place while also allowing the fabric defining the opening 1716 to be expanded to remove the fabric assembly 1700 from the speaker device.

[0074] FIG 17C shows a top view of the fabric assembly 1700 attached around a portion of the upper housing component 1126. FIG 17C shows the drawstring 1714 only partially tightened, leaving an annular gap between the opening defined by the fabric assembly 1700 and the opening defined by the upper housing component 1126. FIG 17D shows how the drawstring 1714 can be threaded through the opening 1708 defined by the mounting frame 1502 and then the fabric assembly 1700 can be tightened evenly around the periphery of the mounting frame 1502.

[0075] FIG. 18 shows an exploded view of a halo assembly 1800. The halo assembly includes an upper ring 1802 and a lower ring 1804 that are coupled together by fasteners 1806. Both the upper ring 1802 and the lower ring 1804 cooperatively define threads around their respective peripheries. The threads allow the rings to be twisted into position within the interior volume of the speaker enclosure. The bottom surface of the upper ring 1802 and the top surface of the lower ring 1804 have complementary geometric shapes that allow the two rings to be radially aligned. Furthermore, when the rings are radially aligned, the peripheral threads continue smoothly across the interface between the two rings. For example, the lower ring includes a tapered feature 1808 that aligns with a recessed feature 1810 when the two rings are radially aligned. As a result of radially aligning rings 1802 and 1804, fastener openings 1812 also align with fastener openings 1814. Upper ring 1802 can include additional openings adjacent each opening 1812 that are configured to receive additional fasteners for securing other internal components to halo assembly 1800. An inwardly facing surface of upper ring 1802 can include protrusions that help thicken a portion of upper ring 1802 that includes openings configured to receive fasteners. Halo assembly 1800 also includes seal 1124, which can be disposed in groove 1816 and can function to prevent acoustic waves from propagating around the periphery of halo assembly 1800.

[0076] FIG. 18 also illustrates a flex connector assembly 1820. The flex connector assembly 1820 can be configured to electrically connect components distributed throughout the speaker enclosure. In particular, the flex connector assembly can extend through an opening 1818 in the upper ring 1802 to reach electrical component connectors disposed above the halo assembly 1800. Also, in some embodiments, the ring 1804 can include an opening aligned with the opening 1818 to allow a flex connector substrate 1822 to pass through. The flex connector substrate 1822 can take the form of a polyimide substrate. In some embodiments, the flex connector assembly 1820 includes a board-to-board connector 1824 configured to electrically connect with an electrical component such as the touch PCB 1514 (see FIG. 15). The flex connector assembly 1820 can include other connectors, such as a connector 1826, configured to electrically connect with a speaker driver at the bottom end of an associated speaker device.

[0077] 19 shows a partial cross-sectional view of a speaker device with a halo assembly 1800 mounted therein. The upper ring 1802 and the lower ring 1804 are shown in direct contact. After rotating the upper ring 1802 and the lower ring 1804 along the threads 1902 of the housing component 208, the fasteners 1806 are shown securing the two rings together. Before the fasteners 1806 secure the upper ring 1802 and the lower ring 1804 together, the threads 1904 and 1906 may fit somewhat loosely between the threads 1902. In this manner, the halo assembly is configured to easily rotate into the housing component 208. Once in the correct position, fasteners 1806 cause threads 1904 and 1906 to carry threads 1902, which tighten the halo assembly in place and prevent vibration of halo assembly 1800 relative to housing component 208. Figure 19 also shows how fasteners 1004 associated with flange 1006 secure flange 1006 of subwoofer 802 to upper ring 1802 of halo assembly 1800.

[0078] FIG. 20 illustrates how the upper housing component 1126 can be secured to the halo assembly 1800 by fasteners 2002. The upper housing component 1126 can include fastener openings, where the fasteners 2002 extend vertically through the upper housing component 1126 to engage the upper ring 1802 of the halo assembly 1800. A decorative plug 2004 can be inserted into a recess surrounding the opening configured to accommodate the fasteners 2002. The decorative plug 2004 prevents the fabric cover from popping out and entering the recess, which could adversely affect the aesthetic appearance of the speaker device. FIG. 20 also illustrates how a seal 1124 can be disposed between the upper ring 1802 and the lower housing component 208, where the seal is operable to prevent acoustic waves from propagating around the periphery of the upper ring 1802. The speaker may also include a seal 2006 disposed between the upper ring 1802 and the flange 1006, which may assist in preventing acoustic waves from propagating through a central opening in the upper ring 1802. FIG. 20 also illustrates the relative positions of the shoulder threads 1302 of the upper housing component 1126 and the shoulder threads 1304 of the lower housing component 208.

[0079] FIG. 21 shows a perspective view of an alternative upper housing component. The upper housing component 2100 includes a diamond-shaped vent 2102. The diamond-shaped vent 2102 can have a shape similar to the pattern of the acoustic fabric covering the upper housing component 2100. Even if the diamond-shaped vent 2102 is significantly larger than the pattern of the acoustic fabric, having a similar pattern results in the contours of the patterns aligning. This alignment can significantly reduce the likelihood that the vent openings below the acoustic fabric will be visible to a user of the speaker device associated with the upper housing component 2100. In some embodiments, the acoustic fabric pattern can be aligned with the vent 2102. For example, the acoustic fabric can be aligned such that one of the four or sixteen diamond patterns aligns inside each of the vents 2102. In this manner, the edges of the patterns can be aligned, further reducing the likelihood that the vents 2102 will be visible to a user. The upper housing component 2100 can also include a protruding support member 2104 configured to support a convex user interface according to the convex user interface 1500 shown in FIG.

[0080] FIG. 22 shows a diagram illustrating different types of connected electronic devices that can communicate and / or interact with the array speaker 100. In some embodiments, the array speaker 100 can act as a central hub to facilitate home automation. The array speaker's on-board memory 100, or memory accessible through a network to which the array speaker 100 can access, can be used to store rules governing the interaction of the various device types shown. The array speaker can then transmit instructions to the disparate devices according to the stored rules. A microphone disposed within the array speaker 100 can be configured to receive voice commands to perform specific actions related to connected electronic devices in the user's home. In some embodiments, the convex user interface can receive commands to adjust various settings on a particular connected electronic device. For example, the array speaker 100 can be configured to receive commands to adjust a smart lock device 2202. In some embodiments, the array speaker 100 can include instructions that enable the smart lock device 2202 to be locked and unlocked in response to voice commands. Additionally, the array speaker 100 can be configured to alert a resident in the home that the smart lock device 2202 has been unlocked. In some embodiments, the array speaker 100 can announce the identity of the user who unlocked the smart lock device 2202. In such a situation, the smart lock device 2202 can be configured to open in response to a command received from an electronic device, such as a mobile phone. The array speaker 100 can then identify the user when the mobile phone is associated with the user. In some embodiments, the array speaker 100 can be configured to interact with other devices in response to the activation of the smart lock device 2202. For example, the array speaker can direct illumination of one or more of the lights 2204 and adjust the temperature of an HVAC system associated with the smart thermometer 2206 in response to an unlocking event.

[0081] 22 also illustrates communication between the array speaker 100 and a smart garage opener 2208. In response to detecting an opening event of the smart garage opener 2208, the array speaker may be configured to perform similar actions as described above with respect to the operation of the smart lock device 2202. In some embodiments, different ones of the lights 2204 may be illuminated in anticipation of a user entering the housing from different directions.

[0082] The array speaker 100 can also be configured to operate different smart devices according to various calendar events associated with an electronic calendar. For example, the array speaker can be configured to disable the surveillance camera 2210 during an event located in the same room as the surveillance camera 2210 if the event is marked as private. The array speaker can also be configured to notify one or more users if the window sensor 2212 indicates that a window should be left open after a certain time of day or night. In some embodiments, the array speaker 100 can act as a media hub that cooperates with other components, such as the television / monitor 2214, to present both video and audio content in response to various user inputs and / or smart device activities. For example, the television / monitor 2214 may represent a status screen and / or progress monitor showing the status and / or activities being performed by the other components, and the television / monitor may or may not have the capability to present a graphical interface to a user of the array speaker 100. In some embodiments, the array speaker may be configured to remotely instruct the refrigerator 2216 to send an internal area image of the refrigerator 2216 to the user before the user leaves for a scheduled grocery shopping trip. While these various actions can be stored in the internal memory of the array speaker 100, the array speaker 100 can communicate with a cloud service provider that assists in coordinating various activities with the user, and the cloud service provider may or may not be connected to the local area network that comprises the array speaker 100. For example, a user can remotely connect to the array speaker 100 with a device such as a smartphone to activate a specific task on the smart component with which the array speaker 100 is communicating.

[0083] In some embodiments, the array speaker can be configured to interact with a wearable display 2218. The wearable display 2218 can take the form of augmented reality or virtual reality goggles that present digital content to the user. If the wearable display 2218 is an augmented reality display, the wearable display 2218 can overlay various control interfaces around the array speaker 100. For example, virtual content can overlay a convex user interface on top of the array speaker 100 to make the user interface larger. In some embodiments, the enlarged user interface can include an enlarged display and enlarged control manipulation areas that allow the user to control the array speaker 100 more efficiently and / or with more diverse options. For example, the user interface can be configured to display a virtual graphic equalizer that allows the user to increase or decrease the treble and / or bass output associated with the audio generated by the array speaker 100. In some embodiments, the user can be presented with an overlay that visualizes various areas of the room covered by each of several speaker drivers contained within the array speaker 100. The user can then adjust the audio output specific to a particular region associated with one or more speaker drivers. For example, the user can identify only the illustrated region containing individuals listening to the audio output from the array speaker 100. Further, the user can reduce the audio output for a first user in a first region of the array speaker associated with a first audio driver and increase the audio output for a second user in a second region of the array speaker associated with a second audio driver. In this manner, listeners can enjoy audio at a desired volume and the virtual interface allows the user to quickly identify regions in which various listeners are located.In some embodiments, the array speaker 100 may include various indicia that assist the circuitry and sensors associated with the wearable display 2218 in orienting the virtual content relative to the array speaker 100. For example, because the array speaker 100 is cylindrical, it may be difficult to determine the radial position of each of the speaker drivers in the array speaker 100. Small indicia, such as decorative symbols, may be embedded in the acoustic fabric cover over the array speaker 100. In this way, different listening zones may be more accurately associated with the array speaker 100. In some embodiments, the array speaker 100 may include optical sensors configured to identify the positions of different listeners in the room and then modify the audio output to enhance the audio experience of the identified listeners.

[0084] In some embodiments, the wearable display device can be configured to receive optical commands from the array speaker 100. For example, the display associated with the user interface can be configured to output a particular light pattern. An optical sensor in the wearable display device 2218 can identify the light pattern and, in response, alter the display in some way. For example, the type, size, and orientation of the virtual control displayed by the wearable display 2218 can be changed according to the output of the display associated with the user interface.

[0085] FIG. 23 is a block diagram illustrating communication and interoperability between various electrical components of the array speaker 100. A processor 2302 can communicate with the electrical components shown. A user interface 2304 can receive user input, which is then received by the processor 2302. In response to the user input, the processor 2302 can interpret and relay a signal corresponding to the received user input to other electrical components. For example, the user interface can receive a user input instructing an increase in the output of both the subwoofer 2306 and the audio driver assembly 2308. In some embodiments, the electrical components can all be coupled together by conductive paths established by components such as the flex connectors 1820. The conductive paths can route electrical signals to various electrical components distributed throughout the equipment housing of the array speaker 100. The array speaker 100 can also include a display system 2312. The display system 2312 can be configured to provide visual feedback to a user of the array speaker 100. For example, visual feedback may be provided in response to an interaction with a voice assistant, such as the Siri® voice assistant manufactured by Apple Inc. of Cupertino, Calif. In some embodiments, a colorful mosaic pattern array may be presented while processing a voice request and / or when the voice assistant is waiting for a voice request. The array speaker may also include a computer readable medium 2314. The computer readable medium 2314 may be configured to store or at least cache a certain amount of media files for playback by the subwoofer 2306 and audio driver assembly 2308. In some embodiments, the media files stored on the computer readable medium 2314 may include, for example, movies, TV shows, photos, recordings, and music videos. In some embodiments, the video portion of the media file may be transmitted to another device for display by the wireless communication system 2316.This may be desirable even when the display system 2312 is displaying a video portion, since another device may have a larger display or a more easily viewable display for a particular user. For example, other display devices may be selected according to the user's location in the room.

[0086] 23 also shows a RAM / ROM component 2318. The RAM / ROM component 2318 may include a RAM (random access memory) for short-term caching of frequently used information and / or information inserted just prior to playback. A ROM (read only memory) may be used to store computer code such as device drivers and lower level code used in basic operation of the array speaker 100. In some embodiments, the RAM / ROM component 2318 may take the form of two separate components.

[0087] FIG. 23 also illustrates how the array speaker 100 can include a sensor array 2320 including microphones, proximity sensors, touch sensors, accelerometers, and the like. The microphones of the sensor array 2320 can be configured to monitor voice commands. In some embodiments, the microphones can be configured to process the voice command only after recognizing a command phrase that indicates the user's intent to issue the voice command. The microphones can be radially scattered along the outside of the device housing so that the housing does not occlude or obscure the voice command. Multiple microphones can also be utilized to triangulate the user's location in the room. In certain cases, it may be desirable to optimize the audio output or cue an additional smart device (see FIG. 22) according to the determined user's location.

[0088] In addition to identifying the location of the user by triangulation with spatially distributed microphones, proximity sensors can be distributed along the exterior of the array speaker 100 to help identify the presence of the user and / or obstacles around the array speaker 100. In some embodiments, the proximity sensors can be configured to emit infrared pulses that help characterize objects around the array speaker 100. The pulses reflected back to the sensors can be processed by the processor 2302, which can then characterize any objects around the array speaker 100. In some embodiments, the audio output of the array speaker 100 can be adjusted in situations where surrounding objects significantly change the expected audio output of the array speaker 100. For example, if the array speaker 100 is placed against a wall or a pillar, the infrared sensors can identify obstacles and attenuation or halt the output of the speaker drivers facing the wall or pillar. The reflected pulses and audio triangulation data can be combined to further fine-tune the location of the user sending commands to the array speaker 100. The sensor array 2320 may also include touch sensors that allow a user to input commands along an exterior surface of the array speaker 100. For example, the touch PCB 1514 of the convex user interface shown in Figure 15 is configured to detect user gestures made along the top cover 1542 and interpret the gestures as various commands that are executed by one or more components of the array speaker 100.

[0089] The sensor array 2320 may also include one or more accelerometers. The accelerometers may be configured to measure the tilt of the array speaker 100, if any, relative to the gravitational reference frame. Because the array speaker 100 is optimized to distribute audio content evenly in a room when placed on a flat surface, placing the array speaker 100 on a tilted or inclined surface may adversely affect the acoustic output of the array speaker 100. In response to the accelerometers determining that the array speaker 100 is tilted at an angle greater than 2 degrees, the array speaker may be configured to prompt the user to find a flatter surface to place the array speaker. Alternatively, the array speaker may be configured to modify its acoustic output to compensate for the tilt angle. Also, in some embodiments, the accelerometers may be configured to monitor resonant vibrations, if any, within the array speaker 100. The processor 2302 can then be configured to adjust the audio output to assist the subwoofer 2306 and / or audio driver assembly 2308 in avoiding or reducing the occurrence of frequencies that cause the array speaker 100 to vibrate at one or more resonant frequencies.

[0090] Various aspects, embodiments, implementations, or features of the described embodiments may be used individually or in any combination. Various aspects of the described embodiments may be implemented by software, hardware, or a combination of hardware and software. The described embodiments may also be implemented as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling the operation of the array speaker. In some embodiments, the computer readable medium may include code for interacting with other connected devices in the user's home. For example, the array speaker may be configured to use an ambient light sensor to identify human activity and learn when to activate and deactivate certain devices in the user's home. The computer readable medium is any data storage device capable of storing data that can be subsequently read by a computer system. Examples of computer readable media include read only memory, random access memory, CD-ROMs, HDDs, DVDs, magnetic tape, and optical data storage devices. The computer readable medium may also be distributed across computer systems coupled to a network such that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion.

[0091] In the foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, specific terminology was used to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that specific details are not required to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the descriptions of the specific embodiments set forth above are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the described embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings.

Claims

1. A voice-controlled electronic device, comprising: an axisymmetric instrument housing having a longitudinal axis intersecting opposed top and bottom surfaces and a side surface extending between the top and bottom surfaces; a computer readable memory disposed within the axisymmetric instrument housing; a plurality of microphones disposed within the axisymmetric instrument housing and radially distributed about the longitudinal axis; a processor disposed within the axisymmetric machine housing and coupled to the computer readable memory, the processor configured to execute computer instructions stored in the computer readable memory to interact with a user and process voice commands received by the plurality of microphones after recognizing a command phrase indicative of the user's intent to issue a voice command; a main logic board disposed within the axisymmetric device housing and on which the processor is mounted; a first transducer disposed within the axisymmetric instrument housing and configured to generate acoustic waves within a first frequency range; a second transducer disposed within the axisymmetric instrument housing and configured to generate acoustic waves within a second frequency range lower than the first frequency range; an outer cover having a pattern formed thereon and disposed on the side of the axisymmetric equipment housing concealing an audio component disposed beneath the outer cover, wherein the outer cover provides a matching outer surface for the voice-controlled electronic device, and wherein acoustic waves generated by the first transducer and the second transducer are capable of passing through the outer cover; a touch-sensitive user interface disposed on the top surface of the axisymmetric device housing, the touch-sensitive user interface including a first touch button and a second touch button disposed symmetrically on either side of the longitudinal axis, the first touch button allowing a user to increase a speaker volume and the second touch button allowing a user to decrease a speaker volume; a second circuit board disposed within the axisymmetric device housing along a plane spaced from the touch-sensitive user interface and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, wherein at least one of the first transducer and the second transducer includes a diaphragm configured to push air toward the second circuit board during operation; a power supply unit disposed within the axisymmetric device housing and configured to provide power to the voice-controlled electronics; A voice-controlled electronic device comprising:

2. The voice-controlled electronic device of claim 1 , wherein the voice-controlled electronic device is configured to identify a user's location by triangulation with the multiple microphones.

3. 10. The voice-controlled electronic device of claim 1, wherein the second circuit board has a plurality of LEDs formed thereon arranged to illuminate one or more portions of the touch-sensitive user interface.

4. The voice-controlled electronic device of claim 1 , wherein the touch-sensitive user interface includes a capacitive touch sensor.

5. 5. The voice-controlled electronic device of claim 4, further comprising one or more light-emitting diodes positioned to illuminate different areas of the touch-sensitive user interface.

6. The voice-controlled electronic device of claim 1 , further comprising a wireless communication system disposed within the axisymmetric device housing.

7. The voice-controlled electronic device of claim 1 , further comprising circuitry configured to implement beamforming techniques to improve audio performance.

8. The voice-controlled electronic device of claim 7 , wherein the beamforming technique produces constructive interference.

9. The voice-controlled electronic device of claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of proximity sensors configured to emit pulses of radiation that the processor uses to characterize objects surrounding the voice-controlled electronic device.

10. The voice-controlled electronic device of claim 9 , wherein the plurality of proximity sensors emit pulses of infrared light.

11. The voice-controlled electronic device of claim 9 , wherein the processor is configured to modify an output of the first transducer or the second transducer based on feedback from the plurality of proximity sensors.

12. The voice-controlled electronic device of claim 1 , further comprising an amplifier board electrically connected to the power supply unit and configured to provide power to the first transducer and the second transducer.

13. The voice-controlled electronic device of claim 1 , wherein the top and bottom surfaces of the axisymmetric device housing are parallel to each other and generally perpendicular to the side surfaces.

14. 10. The voice-controlled electronic device of claim 1, wherein the first transducer is part of a transducer array including a plurality of transducers radially distributed around the axisymmetric device housing.

15. 15. The voice-controlled electronic device of claim 14, wherein each transducer in the transducer array includes two adjacent transducers and is equally spaced apart from each of the two adjacent transducers.

16. A voice-controlled electronic device, comprising: an axisymmetric instrument housing having a longitudinal axis intersecting opposed top and bottom surfaces and a side surface extending between the top and bottom surfaces; a computer readable memory disposed within the axisymmetric instrument housing; a plurality of microphones disposed within the axisymmetric instrument housing and radially distributed about the longitudinal axis; a processor disposed within the axisymmetric device housing and coupled to the computer readable memory, the processor configured to execute computer instructions stored in the computer readable memory to interact with a user via a voice assistant by processing voice commands received by the plurality of microphones; a wireless communication system disposed within the axisymmetric device housing; a first transducer disposed within the axisymmetric instrument housing and configured to generate acoustic waves within a first frequency range; a second transducer disposed within the axisymmetric instrument housing and configured to generate acoustic waves within a second frequency range lower than the first frequency range; an outer cover having a pattern formed thereon and disposed on the side of the axisymmetric equipment housing concealing an audio component disposed beneath the outer cover, wherein the outer cover provides a matching outer surface for the voice-controlled electronic device, and wherein acoustic waves generated by the first transducer and the second transducer are capable of passing through the outer cover; a touch-sensitive user interface disposed on the top surface of the axisymmetric device housing, the touch-sensitive user interface including a first touch button and a second touch button disposed symmetrically on either side of the longitudinal axis, the first touch button allowing a user to increase a speaker volume and the second touch button allowing a user to decrease a speaker volume; a main logic board disposed within the axisymmetric device housing and on which the processor is mounted; a second circuit board disposed within the axisymmetric device housing along a plane spaced from the touch-sensitive user interface and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the second circuit board having a plurality of LEDs formed thereon arranged to illuminate one or more portions of the touch-sensitive user interface; a power supply unit disposed within the axisymmetric device housing and configured to provide power to the voice-controlled electronics; an amplifier board electrically connected to the power supply unit and configured to provide power to the first transducer and the second transducer; A voice-controlled electronic device comprising:

17. The voice-controlled electronic device of claim 16 further comprising a wireless communication system disposed within the axisymmetric device housing.

18. 20. The voice-controlled electronic device of claim 17, further comprising circuitry configured to implement beamforming techniques to improve audio performance.

19. The voice-controlled electronic device of claim 18 , wherein the beamforming technique produces constructive interference.

20. 17. The voice-controlled electronic device of claim 16, further comprising a plurality of proximity sensors configured to emit pulses of infrared light that the processor uses to characterize objects surrounding the voice-controlled electronic device, the processor further configured to modify the output of the first transducer or the second transducer based on feedback from the plurality of proximity sensors.

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