Sound bar

Abstract

A sound bar is disclosed. The sound bar can produce 5.1- or 7.1-channel stereo surround sound by means of speakers arranged in the sound bar without using a separate satellite speaker such as a rear speaker or a top speaker. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the sound bar comprises: a speaker housing; a fixed speaker assembly; and rotating speaker assemblies. The speaker housing forms the exterior, and the fixed speaker assembly is disposed at the center of the speaker housing. The rotating speaker assemblies are respectively disposed on the left and right sides of the fixed speaker assembly. The rotating speaker assemblies are rotated by a motor driving unit.

Description

sound bar

[0001] The present invention relates to a sound bar capable of automatic tilting.

[0002] The sound bar implements virtual surround sound.

[0003] In general, virtual surround sound creates 4-channel and 5.1-channel surround sound using sound image localization and sound mixing functions in a 2-channel speaker environment.

[0004] In reality, there are only two front-facing speakers, but the listener feels as if they are listening to sound in a four-channel or 5.1-channel environment.

[0005] In a typical virtual surround system using a sound bar, two-channel stereo sound is received as a sound source, expanded to 5.1 channels by dividing it into rear left and right channels, center channel, and subwoofer speaker locations, and then the sound is mixed back into two channels and sent out to the front left and right speakers, allowing the listener to experience a virtual three-dimensional effect.

[0006] However, there are limitations in implementing actual surround sound (such as 5.1 channel and 7.1 channel sound) with virtual surround sound through conventional sound bars.

[0007] Currently, to achieve true surround sound, separate satellite speakers, such as rear speakers or top speakers, are installed in addition to the sound bar. The top speakers refer to speakers placed on the ceiling.

[0008] The problem with adding speakers is that space utilization is reduced and costs increase.

[0009] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a sound bar that can implement actual surround sound (such as 5.1 channel and 7.1 channel sound) by using speakers placed in the sound bar without using separate satellite speakers such as rear speakers or top speakers.

[0010] The above-described object of the present invention is achieved by the specific contents described below.

[0011] A sound bar according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a speaker housing, a fixed speaker assembly, and a rotating speaker assembly. The speaker housing forms an exterior, and the fixed speaker assembly is positioned in the middle of the speaker housing. The rotating speaker assembly is positioned on the left and right sides of the fixed speaker assembly, respectively. In addition, the rotating speaker assembly can be rotated by a motor driving unit.

[0012] Specifically, the fixed speaker assembly includes a center fixed speaker disposed at the center of the speaker housing, a right fixed speaker disposed to the right of the center fixed speaker, and a left fixed speaker disposed to the left of the center fixed speaker.

[0013] Specifically, the rotary speaker assembly includes a right rotary speaker unit and a left rotary speaker unit. The right rotary speaker unit is positioned on the right side of the fixed speaker assembly, and the left rotary speaker unit is positioned on the left side of the fixed speaker assembly.

[0014] Specifically, the right rotation speaker unit includes a first left-right rotation speaker unit. The first left-right rotation speaker unit includes a first speaker unit that can rotate left or right. The left rotation speaker unit includes a second left-right rotation speaker unit. The second left-right rotation speaker unit includes a second speaker unit that can rotate left or right. When the first speaker unit rotates right, the second speaker unit rotates left.

[0015] Specifically, the first left-right rotation speaker unit includes a first speaker support unit that supports the first speaker unit, and the second left-right rotation speaker unit includes a second speaker support unit that supports the second speaker unit. A first speaker rotation axis and a second speaker rotation axis are formed to protrude in opposite directions in each of the first speaker support unit and the second speaker support unit. The first speaker unit and the first speaker support unit, and the second speaker unit and the second speaker support unit can rotate left or right about the first speaker rotation axis and the second speaker rotation axis as rotation axes.

[0016] Specifically, each of the first left-right rotation speaker unit and the second left-right rotation speaker unit includes a first worm wheel unit, a first worm gear unit, and a first drive motor. The first worm wheel unit is formed on the first speaker rotation axis. The first worm gear unit has a first worm that meshes with the first worm wheel unit. The first drive motor is connected to the first worm gear unit and is operated by the motor drive unit. The upper surface of the first worm wheel unit is arranged horizontally.

[0017] Specifically, the right rotational speaker unit includes a first vertical rotational speaker unit. The first vertical rotational speaker unit includes a third speaker unit that can rotate up or down. The left rotational speaker unit includes a second vertical rotational speaker unit. The second vertical rotational speaker unit includes a fourth speaker unit that can rotate up or down. The third speaker unit and the fourth speaker unit rotate together in one direction and face upward.

[0018] Specifically, the first vertically rotating speaker unit is disposed between the fixed speaker assembly and the first left-right rotating speaker unit, and the second vertically rotating speaker unit is disposed between the fixed speaker assembly and the second left-right rotating speaker unit.

[0019] Specifically, the first vertical rotation speaker unit includes a third speaker support unit that supports a third speaker unit, and the second vertical rotation speaker unit includes a fourth speaker support unit that supports a fourth speaker unit. A third speaker rotation axis and a fourth speaker rotation axis are formed to protrude in opposite directions in each of the third speaker support unit and the fourth speaker support unit. The third speaker unit and the third speaker support unit, and the fourth speaker unit and the fourth speaker support unit can rotate up or down about the third speaker rotation axis and the fourth speaker rotation axis as rotation axes.

[0020] Specifically, each of the first vertically rotating speaker unit and the second vertically rotating speaker unit includes a second worm wheel unit, a second worm gear unit, and a second drive motor. The second worm wheel unit is formed on the third speaker rotation axis. The second worm gear unit has a second worm that meshes with the second worm wheel unit. The second drive motor is connected to the second worm gear unit and is operated by the motor drive unit. The upper surface of the second worm wheel unit is arranged vertically.

[0021] Specifically, the sound bar of the present invention includes a control unit and a camera sensor unit. When a sound source is input, the control unit determines whether the sound source is a 5.1-channel or 7.1-channel sound source. The camera sensor unit measures the user's location and analyzes the shape of the space in which the user is located.

[0022] Specifically, the control unit outputs an electrical signal to the motor driving unit using the analysis data transmitted from the camera sensor unit, thereby rotating the speaker unit of the rotary speaker assembly.

[0023] Specifically, the control unit detects the position of the home appliance using a Bluetooth signal and sends a control signal to the motor driving unit to rotate the speaker unit of the rotary speaker assembly.

[0024] Specifically, the control unit searches for a Bluetooth signal output from a home appliance, and, if the Bluetooth signal is found, connects to the Bluetooth signal. Furthermore, the control unit calculates the distance to the home appliance using the Bluetooth received signal strength (RSSI) value and a trigonometric function.

[0025] Specifically, the control unit calculates the distance to the appliance and detects the location of the appliance. The location of the appliance is detected using the received signal strength (RSSI) value, angle of arrival (AoA), and angle of departure (AoD).

[0026] Specifically, the control unit recognizes a user based on camera vision recognition of the camera sensor unit, and sends a control signal to the motor drive unit according to the distance and angle information of the recognized user, thereby rotating the speaker unit of the rotary speaker assembly to provide a sound viewing angle according to the user's position.

[0027] Specifically, the camera sensor unit recognizes and tracks a user through camera vision recognition. When a user is recognized, the camera sensor unit calculates the distance between the camera sensor unit and the user. Furthermore, the camera sensor unit calculates the user's location coordinates and transmits the calculated location coordinates to the control unit.

[0028] Specifically, the control unit receives the user's location coordinate values ​​and calculates the angle between the camera sensor unit and the side wall or ceiling of the room based on the user's location coordinate values. Then, the control unit sends a control signal to the motor drive unit based on the angle value between the camera sensor unit and the side wall or ceiling of the room, thereby rotating the speaker unit of the rotary speaker assembly.

[0029] The sound bar of the present invention has the effect of implementing 5.1 channel or 7.1 channel surround sound, etc., by using speakers placed in the sound bar.

[0030] In addition, the sound bar of the present invention has the effect of automatically implementing 5.1-channel or 7.1-channel surround sound, etc., using a control unit and a motor driving unit.

[0031] More detailed effects of the sound bar of the present invention are described in the form for implementing the invention below.

[0032] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a sound bar according to an example of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 2 illustrates an example of components of the soundbar of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 3 is a top view of a portion of the sound bar of FIG. 1.

[0035] Figure 4 shows a speaker unit mounted inside a speaker housing.

[0036] Figure 5 shows a rotating speaker section, a gear section, and a driving motor.

[0037] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the components illustrated in Figure 4.

[0038] Figure 7 shows the rotation of the right rotary speaker section.

[0039] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing a sound bar of the present invention implementing 5.1 channel sound.

[0040] Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing how the sound bar of the present invention implements surround sound.

[0041] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing a sound bar of the present invention implementing 7.1 channel sound.

[0042] Figure 11 is an example showing a sound bar recognizing the position of a home appliance and outputting sound.

[0043] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing how a sound bar recognizes the location of a home appliance and outputs sound.

[0044] Figure 13 illustrates an example of the camera sensor unit and the user's position.

[0045] Figure 14 is a flowchart showing how to rotate the speaker unit in the direction in which the user is positioned.

[0046] Hereinafter, examples of embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the attached drawings. For components of the present invention that are clearly understandable and easily reproducible by those skilled in the art using conventional techniques, a detailed description thereof will be omitted so as not to obscure the gist of the present invention.

[0047] The attached drawings are only intended to facilitate understanding of examples of embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited by the attached drawings.

[0048] Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0049] Additionally, terms including ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., used herein may be used to describe various components, but these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, a first component could be referred to as a "second component," and similarly, a second component could also be referred to as a "first component."

[0050] Below, a sound bar according to an example of an embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0051] The sound bar of the present invention can provide surround sound (e.g., 5.1 channel or 7.1 channel sound) to a user (listener) using only speakers placed in the sound bar without having separate independent speakers.

[0052] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 7, a sound bar according to an example of an embodiment of the present invention includes a speaker housing (1).

[0053] The speaker housing (1) forms the exterior of the sound bar of the present invention.

[0054] The speaker housing (1) is formed in a polyhedral shape and has a preset length in one direction.

[0055] Specifically, the speaker housing (1) is formed to have a long length in one direction.

[0056] Specifically, the speaker housing (1) is formed in a rod shape that is long in one direction. The speaker housing (1) of the present invention can be arranged so that the one direction is horizontal.

[0057] The outer surfaces of the speaker housing (1) may be formed as flat surfaces, or may be formed as surfaces including curves, steps, or holes.

[0058] The speaker housing (1) has a space inside.

[0059] The internal space of the speaker housing (1) accommodates various components necessary for the sound bar to generate sound. These various components include electrical and electronic components, speakers, printed circuit boards, etc., and include a receiving portion and fastening member for fixing the electrical and electronic components, speakers, printed circuit boards, etc.

[0060] A plurality of speaker receiving portions (11) are formed on one side of the speaker housing (1).

[0061] The speaker receiving portion (11) is a hole that penetrates one side (1a) of the speaker housing (1).

[0062] The speaker receiving portion (11) is surrounded by one side (1a) of the speaker housing (1). In other words, the edge of the speaker receiving portion (11) is in contact with one side (1a) of the speaker housing (1) surrounding the speaker receiving portion (11).

[0063] The speaker receiving portion (11) connects the internal space of the speaker housing (1) and the exterior of the speaker housing (1).

[0064] Speakers (21, 22, 23, 311, 312, 321, 322) that output sound are placed in the speaker receiving section (11).

[0065] The shape of the speaker receiving portion (11) can be formed to correspond to the shape of the speakers (21, 22, 23, 311, 312, 321, 322) placed in the speaker receiving portion (11). In other words, the shape of the outer edge of the speaker receiving portion (11) connecting the edges of the speaker receiving portion (11) can be formed to correspond to the shape of the outer edge of the speakers (21, 22, 23, 311, 312, 321, 322) connecting the edges of the speakers (21, 22, 23, 311, 312, 321, 322).

[0066] A plurality of speaker receiving portions (11) are formed side by side in one direction on one side (1a) of the speaker housing (1), and the speaker receiving portions (11) are arranged spaced apart from neighboring speaker receiving portions (11) by a preset distance.

[0067] A guide portion (12) is formed on one side (1a) of the speaker housing (1).

[0068] Specifically, the guide portion (12) is formed on one side (1a) of the speaker housing (1) surrounding the speaker receiving portion (11).

[0069] In addition, the guide portion (12) is formed continuously along one side (1a) of the speaker housing (1) surrounding the speaker receiving portion (11). However, according to another embodiment of the present invention, the guide portion (12) may not be formed continuously, but may be formed intermittently, so that gaps (spaces) may be formed in the middle.

[0070] In addition, the guide portion (12) is formed to extend from one side (1a) of the speaker housing (1) toward the internal space of the speaker housing (1). The length extended from one side (1a) of the speaker housing (1) toward the internal space of the speaker housing (1) corresponds to the width of the guide portion (12).

[0071] To elaborate, the guide portion (12) is formed in a ring shape. The through hole formed in the middle of the ring shape corresponds to the speaker receiving portion (11).

[0072] The guide portion (12) is formed in a plate shape with a preset thickness and width, and the plate shape is continuously connected to form a ring shape. According to another embodiment of the present invention, even if the guide portion (12) is formed intermittently and gaps are formed here and there, the overall outline forms a ring shape.

[0073] The guide portion (12) may be named by dividing it into upper, lower, left, and right sides. Alternatively, the upper portion of the guide portion (12) may be named as an upper guide portion (not designated), the lower portion of the guide portion (12) may be named as a lower guide portion (12a), the right portion of the guide portion (12) may be named as a right guide portion (12b), and the left portion of the guide portion (12) may be named as a left guide portion (12c) (see FIG. 6).

[0074] A rotating speaker section (311, 312, 321, 322) is rotatably connected to the guide section (12).

[0075] A rotation shaft coupling portion (12d) into which a speaker rotation shaft (3113) described later is inserted is formed in the guide portion (12).

[0076] The rotary shaft coupling portion (12d) may be a groove or a hole.

[0077] When the rotating speaker part (311, 312, 321, 322) rotates, the edge of the rotating speaker part (311, 312, 321, 322) (specifically, the speaker support part (3112, 3122) described later) rotates along one side of the guide part (12).

[0078] A guide portion (12) is formed in each of a plurality of speaker receiving portions (11). In particular, the guide portion (12) is formed in each of the speaker receiving portions (11) in which the rotating speaker portions (311, 312, 321, 322) are arranged.

[0079] A sound bar according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a fixed speaker assembly (2) and a rotating speaker assembly (3).

[0080] The fixed speaker assembly (2) is positioned in the middle of the speaker housing (1).

[0081] The fixed speaker assembly (2) includes a center fixed speaker (21), a left fixed speaker (23), and a right fixed speaker (22).

[0082] The center fixed speaker (21), the left fixed speaker (23), and the right fixed speaker (22) are conventional speakers, which are devices that convert electric acoustic signals into sound waves.

[0083] Each of the center fixed speaker (21), the left fixed speaker (23), and the right fixed speaker (22) is placed in a speaker receiving portion (11) formed in the speaker housing (1).

[0084] The center-fixed speaker (21) is placed at the center of the speaker housing (1).

[0085] The center-fixed speaker (21) is placed in the speaker receiving portion (11) formed in the center of the speaker housing (1).

[0086] The left fixed speaker (23) is placed to the left of the center fixed speaker (21).

[0087] The left fixed speaker (23) is placed in the speaker receiving portion (11) formed on the left side of the speaker receiving portion (11) in which the center fixed speaker (21) is placed.

[0088] There may be multiple left fixed speakers (23). The multiple left fixed speakers (23) may include a woofer responsible for low-pitched sounds and a tweeter responsible for high-pitched sounds.

[0089] The right fixed speaker (22) is placed to the right of the center fixed speaker (21).

[0090] The right fixed speaker (22) is placed in the speaker receiving portion (11) formed on the right side of the speaker receiving portion (11) in which the center fixed speaker (21) is placed.

[0091] There may be multiple right-side fixed speakers (22). The multiple right-side fixed speakers (22) may include a woofer responsible for low-pitched sounds and a tweeter responsible for high-pitched sounds.

[0092] The rotating speaker assembly (3) is placed on the left and right sides of the fixed speaker assembly (2), respectively.

[0093] The rotary speaker assembly (3) can be rotated by the motor drive unit (44).

[0094] The rotary speaker assembly (3) includes a right rotary speaker section (31) and a left rotary speaker section (32).

[0095] The right rotating speaker unit (31) is placed on the right side of the fixed speaker assembly (2).

[0096] The right rotation speaker unit (31) includes a left and right rotation speaker unit (311) and an up and down rotation speaker unit (312). The left and right rotation speaker unit (311) may be referred to as a 'first left and right rotation speaker unit (311)', and the up and down rotation speaker unit (312) may be referred to as a 'first up and down rotation speaker unit (312)'.

[0097] The first left-right rotation speaker unit (311) and the first up-down rotation speaker unit (312) are placed in the speaker receiving unit (11) formed in the speaker housing (1).

[0098] The first left-right rotation speaker unit (311) and the first up-down rotation speaker unit (312) are arranged on the right side of the speaker housing (1).

[0099] Specifically, the first left-right rotating speaker unit (311) is placed in the speaker receiving unit (11) formed on the right edge of the speaker housing (1).

[0100] And, the first vertical rotation speaker unit (312) is placed in a speaker receiving unit (11) formed next to the speaker receiving unit (11) in which the first left-right rotation speaker unit (311) is placed.

[0101] The first vertical rotation speaker unit (312) is positioned between the first left-right rotation speaker unit (311) and the fixed speaker assembly (2). This is to minimize interference between sounds output from the first vertical rotation speaker unit (312) and the first left-right rotation speaker unit (311).

[0102] The first left-right rotating speaker unit (311) can rotate left or right.

[0103] The first left-right rotating speaker unit (311) includes a speaker unit (3111) and a speaker support unit (3112) that supports the speaker unit (3111). The speaker unit (3111) may be referred to as a 'first speaker unit (3111)', and the speaker support unit (3112) may be referred to as a 'first speaker support unit (3112)'.

[0104] The first speaker section (3111) and the first speaker support section (3112) can rotate left or right together.

[0105] The first speaker unit (3111) is a conventional speaker and is a device that converts an electric acoustic signal into a sound wave.

[0106] The first speaker support (3112) is formed to extend radially from the edge of the first speaker section (3111).

[0107] The first speaker support (3112) is formed in a plate shape with a preset thickness.

[0108] When the first speaker support (3112) does not rotate, one side of the first speaker support (3112) is arranged parallel to one side (1a) of the speaker housing (1). Fig. 7 (a) shows a state in which the first left-right rotation speaker unit (311) and the first up-down rotation speaker unit (312) do not rotate.

[0109] The first speaker section (3111) and the first speaker support section (3112) can be formed integrally.

[0110] Alternatively, according to an example of another embodiment of the present invention, the first speaker unit (3111) and the first speaker support unit (3112) may be manufactured separately and joined to each other by fastening members such as bolts, nuts, screws, etc., or adhesives, etc.

[0111] The first speaker support (3112) includes a speaker rotation axis (3113).

[0112] The first speaker section (3111) and the first speaker support section (3112) rotate left or right about the speaker rotation axis (3113).

[0113] The speaker rotation axis (3113) includes a first speaker rotation axis (3113a) and a second speaker rotation axis (3113b).

[0114] The first speaker rotation axis (3113a) is formed at the center and edge of one side of the first speaker support (3112). And, the second speaker rotation axis (3113b) is formed at the center and edge of the other side of the first speaker support (3112).

[0115] One side and the other side of the first speaker support (3112) are parts of the first speaker support (3112) that are arranged on opposite sides.

[0116] The center of one side of the first speaker support (3112) indicates the center in the horizontal direction on one side of the first speaker support (3112). The edge of one side of the first speaker support (3112) indicates the end in the vertical direction on one side of the first speaker support (3112).

[0117] The center of the other side of the first speaker support (3112) indicates the center in the horizontal direction on the other side of the first speaker support (3112). The edge of the other side of the first speaker support (3112) indicates the end in the vertical direction on the other side of the first speaker support (3112).

[0118] The speaker rotation axis (3113) is formed in the shape of a bar (or pillar) with a preset length.

[0119] The speaker rotation axis (3113) may be arranged vertically. In other words, the longitudinal direction of the speaker rotation axis (3113) may be parallel to the vertical direction.

[0120] The first speaker rotation axis (3113a) is formed by protruding in the direction in which the first speaker support (3112) is extended from one edge of the first speaker support (3112).

[0121] And, the second speaker rotation axis (3113b) is formed by protruding in the direction in which the first speaker support (3112) is extended from the edge of the other side of the first speaker support (3112).

[0122] The first speaker rotation axis (3113a) and the second speaker rotation axis (3113b) are formed to protrude in opposite directions.

[0123] The speaker rotation axis (3113) is rotatably connected to the rotation axis coupling portion (12d) formed in the guide portion (12) of the speaker housing (1). The guide portion (12) of the speaker housing (1) may be referred to as a 'first guide portion (121)'.

[0124] The first guide part (121) represents the guide part (12) to which the first left-right rotation speaker part (311) (specifically, the first speaker support part (3112)) is coupled.

[0125] The speaker rotation axis (3113) can rotate left or right while inserted into the rotation axis coupling part (12d).

[0126] The rotation shaft coupling portion (12d) is formed on the upper and lower sides of the first guide portion (121), respectively.

[0127] The first speaker rotation axis (3113a) can rotate while being inserted into a rotation axis coupling portion formed in the upper guide portion (not designated) of the first guide portion (121), and the second speaker rotation axis (3113b) can rotate while being inserted into a rotation axis coupling portion (12d) formed in the lower guide portion (12a) of the first guide portion (121).

[0128] As the speaker rotation axis (3113) is rotatably connected to the upper guide portion and the lower guide portion (12a) of the first guide portion (121), the first left-right rotation speaker portion (311) (specifically, the first speaker portion (3111) and the first speaker support portion (3112)) can rotate left or right.

[0129] In addition, the first left-right rotating speaker unit (311) includes a worm gear unit (3115), a worm wheel unit (3116), and a driving motor (3117). The worm gear unit (3115) may be named a 'first worm gear unit (3115)', the worm wheel unit (3116) may be named a 'first worm wheel unit (3116)', and the driving motor (3117) may be named a 'first driving motor (3117)'.

[0130] The first worm gear section (3115) represents a commonly used worm gear, and is composed of a worm shaft (3115a) and a worm (3115b). The worm shaft (3115a) may be referred to as a 'first worm shaft (3115a)', and the worm (3115b) may be referred to as a 'first worm (3115b)'.

[0131] The first worm shaft (3115a) is formed in a rod shape with a preset length and includes one end and the other end arranged on opposite sides.

[0132] The first worm (3115b) is placed (or formed) on the first worm shaft (3115a) and is formed in a screw shape between one end and the other end of the first worm shaft (3115a).

[0133] The first worm gear part (3115) is rotatably arranged inside the speaker housing (1).

[0134] The speaker housing (1) includes a worm shaft fixing part (not shown) that rotatably fixes a first worm gear part (3115) (specifically, a first worm shaft (3115a)). The worm shaft fixing part may be referred to as a 'first worm shaft fixing part'.

[0135] The first worm shaft fixing part is formed inside the speaker housing (1).

[0136] For example, the first worm axis fixing member includes a plurality of extension plates (not shown) formed to extend from an inner surface of the speaker housing (1) to a preset length and holes (not shown) formed in the extension plates.

[0137] The first worm shaft (3115a) is rotatably connected to a plurality of extension plates.

[0138] Specifically, the plurality of extension plates include a first extension plate and a second extension plate, and the first extension plate and the second extension plate are formed to be spaced apart from each other by a preset distance.

[0139] One end of the first worm shaft (3115a) is inserted into a hole (first hole) formed in the first extension plate, and can rotate while inserted into the first hole.

[0140] And, the other end of the first worm shaft (3115a) is inserted into a hole (second hole) formed in the second extension plate, and can rotate while inserted into the second hole.

[0141] When the first worm shaft (3115a) is connected to the first extension plate and the second extension plate, the first worm (3115b) is placed between the first extension plate and the second extension plate.

[0142] Additionally, the speaker housing (1) includes other components that enable the first worm shaft (3115a) to rotate while connected to the first worm shaft fixing portion. For example, one of the other components may be a bearing. The bearing is fitted into a hole formed in the extension plate, and the first worm shaft (3115a) is fitted into the inner ring of the bearing. The bearing facilitates the rotation of the first worm shaft (3115a).

[0143] According to an example of an embodiment of the present invention, when the first worm gear part (3115) is arranged above the first left-right rotating speaker part (311), the first worm shaft fixing part (specifically, the extension plate) is formed on the upper surface among the inner surfaces of the speaker housing (1), and is formed at a position corresponding to the position where the first worm gear part (3115) is arranged.

[0144] And, according to an example of another embodiment of the present invention, when the first worm gear part (3115) is arranged below the first left-right rotating speaker part (311), the first worm shaft fixing part (specifically, the extension plate) is formed on the lower surface among the inner surfaces of the speaker housing (1), and is formed at a position corresponding to the position where the first worm gear part (3115) is arranged.

[0145] The first worm gear portion (3115) (specifically, the first worm (3115b)) is engaged with the first worm wheel portion (3116) described later. In addition, the first worm shaft (3115a) of the first worm gear portion (3115) is coupled with the first drive motor (3117) described later.

[0146] The first worm wheel section (3116) represents a commonly used worm wheel.

[0147] The first worm wheel section (3116) is formed in a plate shape with a preset thickness.

[0148] In the present invention, the first worm wheel portion (3116) is formed in a semicircular shape, and gear teeth are formed on the edge of the semicircular shape.

[0149] The first worm wheel section (3116) has a flat surface (upper or lower surface) arranged horizontally.

[0150] According to an example of an embodiment of the present invention, the first worm wheel portion (3116) may be formed at the center and edge of one side of the first speaker support portion (3112). Alternatively, the first worm wheel portion (3116) may be formed at the first speaker rotation axis (3113a).

[0151] Alternatively, according to another embodiment of the present invention, the first worm wheel portion (3116) may be formed at the center and edge of the other side of the first speaker support portion (3112). Alternatively, the first worm wheel portion (3116) may be formed at the second speaker rotation axis (3113b).

[0152] The first worm wheel part (3116) may be formed integrally with the first speaker support part (3112) or the speaker rotation axis (3113), or may be manufactured separately from the first speaker support part (3112) or the speaker rotation axis (3113) and may be joined to each other by fastening members such as bolts, nuts, screws, or adhesives.

[0153] The first worm wheel portion (3116) meshes with the first worm (3115b) of the first worm gear portion (3115).

[0154] When the first worm (3115b) rotates, the first worm wheel part (3116) also rotates.

[0155] For example, when the first worm (3115b) rotates clockwise, the first worm wheel part (3116) rotates to the right. Accordingly, the first speaker part (3111) and the first speaker support part (3112) rotate to the right with the speaker rotation axis (3113) as the rotation axis. At this time, the first speaker part (3111) and the first speaker support part (3112) face to the right. FIG. 7 (b) shows the first left-right rotation speaker part (311) rotating to the right and facing to the right.

[0156] And, when the first worm (3115b) rotates counterclockwise, the first worm wheel part (3116) rotates to the left. Accordingly, the first speaker part (3111) and the first speaker support part (3112) rotate to the left with the speaker rotation axis (3113) as the rotation axis. At this time, the first speaker part (3111) and the first speaker support part (3112) face the left. FIG. 7 (c) shows the first left-right rotation speaker part (311) rotating to the left and facing the left.

[0157] The rotation angle of the first speaker unit (3111) and the first speaker support unit (3112) can be adjusted by the user, or can be stored and set in advance in the control unit (4) (see FIG. 2) and adjusted by the user.

[0158] The first driving motor (3117) is placed in the internal space of the speaker housing (1). That is, the first driving motor (3117) is placed and fixed inside the speaker housing (1).

[0159] The speaker housing (1) includes a motor receiving portion (not shown) that secures a first driving motor (3117). The motor receiving portion may be referred to as a ‘first motor receiving portion.’

[0160] The first motor receiving portion is formed inside the speaker housing (1).

[0161] For example, the first motor receiving portion may be a groove or a hole. The first drive motor (3117) may be inserted and fixed into the groove or hole. In addition, the speaker housing (1) includes other components necessary for fixing the first drive motor (3117).

[0162] According to an example of an embodiment of the present invention, when the first driving motor (3117) is fixed on top of the first left-right rotating speaker unit (311), the first motor receiving portion is formed on the upper side of the inside of the speaker housing (1), and is formed at a position corresponding to the position where the first driving motor (3117) is arranged.

[0163] And, according to another embodiment of the present invention, when the first driving motor (3117) is fixed below the first left-right rotating speaker unit (311), the first motor receiving portion is formed on the lower side of the inside of the speaker housing (1), and is formed at a position corresponding to the position where the first driving motor (3117) is arranged.

[0164] The first drive motor (3117) represents a commonly used motor.

[0165] When electricity is supplied to the first drive motor (3117), the rotation axis of the first drive motor (3117) rotates clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0166] The rotational axis of the first driving motor (3117) is connected to the first worm shaft (3115a) of the first worm gear unit (3115). The rotational axis of the first driving motor (3117) and the first worm shaft (3115a) of the first worm gear unit (3115) can be connected to each other by a known method.

[0167] When the rotation axis of the first drive motor (3117) rotates clockwise or counterclockwise, the first worm shaft (3115a) and the first worm (3115b) of the first worm gear unit (3115) also rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. Accordingly, the first speaker unit (3111) and the first speaker support unit (3112) rotate left or right about the speaker rotation axis (3113).

[0168] Supplying electricity to the first drive motor (3117) to drive the first drive motor (3117) and the rotation direction of the first drive motor (3117) can be controlled by the control unit (4).

[0169] The first vertical rotating speaker section (312) can rotate upward or downward.

[0170] The first vertically rotating speaker unit (312) includes a speaker unit (3121) and a speaker support unit (3122) that supports the speaker unit (3121). The speaker unit (3121) may be referred to as a 'second speaker unit (3121)', and the speaker support unit (3122) may be referred to as a 'second speaker support unit (3122)'.

[0171] The second speaker section (3121) and the second speaker support section (3122) can rotate together up or down.

[0172] The second speaker unit (3121) is a conventional speaker identical to the first speaker unit (3111) described above.

[0173] The second speaker unit (3121) and the second speaker support unit (3122) are identical or similar to the first speaker unit (3111) and the first speaker support unit (3112) described above. In describing the second speaker unit (3121) and the second speaker support unit (3122) below, the configurations or parts that are distinct from the first speaker unit (3111) and the first speaker support unit (3112) described above are described, and the configurations or parts that are identical or similar are replaced with the descriptions of the first speaker unit (3111) and the first speaker support unit (3112).

[0174] The second speaker support (3122) includes a speaker rotation axis (3113).

[0175] The speaker rotation axis (3113) formed on the second speaker support (3122) is identical to or similar to the speaker rotation axis (3113) formed on the first speaker support (3112) described above. In describing the speaker rotation axis (3113) formed on the second speaker support (3122) below, a configuration or part that is distinct from the speaker rotation axis (3113) formed on the first speaker support (3112) described above is described, and the identical or similar configuration or part is replaced with the description of the speaker rotation axis (3113) formed on the first speaker support (3112).

[0176] The second speaker section (3121) and the second speaker support section (3122) rotate up or down about the speaker rotation axis (3113).

[0177] The speaker rotation axis (3113) may be arranged horizontally. In other words, the longitudinal direction of the speaker rotation axis (3113) may be parallel to the horizontal direction.

[0178] The speaker rotation axis (3113) formed on the second speaker support (3122) includes a first speaker rotation axis (3113a) and a second speaker rotation axis (3113b), similar to the speaker rotation axis (3113) formed on the first speaker support (3112) described above.

[0179] The speaker rotation axis (3113) is rotatably connected to the rotation axis coupling portion (12d) formed in the guide portion (12) of the speaker housing (1). The guide portion (12) of the speaker housing (1) may be referred to as a 'second guide portion (122)'.

[0180] The second guide part (122) represents the guide part (12) to which the first vertical rotation speaker part (312) (specifically, the second speaker support part (3122)) is coupled.

[0181] The speaker rotation axis (3113) can rotate up or down while inserted into the rotation axis coupling part (12d).

[0182] The rotation shaft coupling portion (12d) is formed on the left and right sides of the second guide portion (122), respectively (see Fig. 6).

[0183] The first speaker rotation axis (3113a) can rotate while inserted into the rotation axis coupling portion (12d) formed in the right guide portion (12b) of the second guide portion (122), and the second speaker rotation axis (3113b) can rotate while inserted into the rotation axis coupling portion (12d) formed in the left guide portion (12c) of the second guide portion (122).

[0184] As the speaker rotation axis (3113) is rotatably connected to the right guide part (12b) and the left guide part (12c) of the second guide part (122), the first up-and-down rotation speaker part (312) (specifically, the second speaker part (3121) and the second speaker support part (3122)) can rotate up or down.

[0185] In addition, the first vertical rotation speaker unit (312) includes a worm gear unit (3125), a worm wheel unit (3126), and a driving motor (3127). The worm gear unit (3125) may be named a 'second worm gear unit (3125)', the worm wheel unit (3126) may be named a 'second worm wheel unit (3126)', and the driving motor (3127) may be named a 'second driving motor (3127)'.

[0186] The second worm gear portion (3125), the second worm wheel portion (3126), and the second drive motor (3127) are identical or similar to the first worm gear portion (3115), the first worm wheel portion (3116), and the first drive motor (3117) described above. In describing the second worm gear portion (3125), the second worm wheel portion (3126), and the second drive motor (3127) below, the configurations or parts that are distinct from the first worm gear portion (3115), the first worm wheel portion (3116), and the first drive motor (3117) described above are described, and the configurations or parts that are identical or similar are replaced with the descriptions of the first worm gear portion (3115), the first worm wheel portion (3116), and the first drive motor (3117).

[0187] The second worm gear part (3125) is rotatably positioned inside the speaker housing (1).

[0188] The speaker housing (1) includes a second worm shaft fixing portion (not shown) that rotatably fixes a second worm gear portion (3125) (specifically, a second worm shaft (3125a)).

[0189] The second worm shaft fixing part is formed inside the speaker housing (1).

[0190] For example, the second worm axis fixing member includes a plurality of extension plates (not shown) formed to extend from an inner surface of the speaker housing (1) to a preset length and holes (not shown) formed in the extension plates.

[0191] The second worm shaft (3125a) is rotatably connected to a plurality of extension plates.

[0192] Specifically, the plurality of extension plates include a third extension plate and a fourth extension plate, and the third extension plate and the fourth extension plate are formed to be spaced apart from each other by a preset distance.

[0193] One end of the second worm shaft (3125a) is inserted into a hole (third hole) formed in the third extension plate, and can rotate while inserted into the third hole.

[0194] And, the other end of the second worm shaft (3125a) is inserted into a hole (fourth hole) formed in the fourth extension plate, and can rotate while inserted into the fourth hole.

[0195] When the second worm shaft (3125a) is connected to the third extension plate and the fourth extension plate, the second worm (3125b) is placed between the third extension plate and the fourth extension plate.

[0196] Additionally, the speaker housing (1) includes other components such as bearings that enable the second worm shaft (3125a) to rotate while connected to the second worm shaft fixing portion.

[0197] According to an example of an embodiment of the present invention, when the second worm gear part (3125) is arranged on the right side of the first vertical rotation speaker part (312), the second worm shaft fixing part (specifically, the extension plate) is formed on one side of the inner surface of the speaker housing (1), and is formed at a position corresponding to the position where the second worm gear part (3125) is arranged.

[0198] And, according to an example of another embodiment of the present invention, when the second worm gear part (3125) is arranged on the left side of the first vertical rotation speaker part (312), the second worm shaft fixing part (specifically, the extension plate) is formed on one side of the inner surface of the speaker housing (1), and is formed at a position corresponding to the position where the second worm gear part (3125) is arranged.

[0199] The second worm wheel section (3126) has a flat surface (upper or lower surface) arranged vertically.

[0200] The second worm wheel portion (3126) meshes with the second worm (3125b) of the second worm gear portion (3125).

[0201] When the second worm (3125b) rotates, the second worm wheel part (3126) also rotates.

[0202] For example, when the second worm (3125b) rotates clockwise, the second worm wheel part (3126) rotates in one direction. Accordingly, the second speaker part (3121) and the second speaker support part (3122) rotate in one direction with the speaker rotation axis (3113) as the rotation axis. At this time, the second speaker part (3121) and the second speaker support part (3122) face upward. FIG. 7 (b) shows the first vertical rotation speaker part (312) rotating in one direction and facing upward.

[0203] And, when the second worm (3125b) rotates counterclockwise, the second worm wheel part (3126) rotates in the opposite direction of one direction. Accordingly, the second speaker part (3121) and the second speaker support part (3122) rotate in the opposite direction of one direction with the speaker rotation axis (3113) as the rotation axis. At this time, the second speaker part (3121) and the second speaker support part (3122) face downward. Fig. 7 (c) shows that the first up-and-down rotation speaker part (312) rotates in the opposite direction of one direction and faces downward.

[0204] The second driving motor (3127) is placed in the internal space of the speaker housing (1). That is, the second driving motor (3127) is placed and fixed inside the speaker housing (1).

[0205] The speaker housing (1) includes a second motor receiving portion (not shown) that fixes a second driving motor (3127).

[0206] The second motor receiving portion is formed inside the speaker housing (1).

[0207] For example, the second motor receiving portion may be a groove or a hole. The second drive motor (3127) may be inserted and fixed into the groove or hole. In addition, the speaker housing (1) includes other components necessary for fixing the second drive motor (3127).

[0208] According to an example of an embodiment of the present invention, when the second driving motor (3127) is fixed to the right side of the first up-and-down rotating speaker unit (312), the second motor receiving portion is formed on one side of the inside of the speaker housing (1), and is formed at a position corresponding to the position where the second driving motor (3127) is arranged.

[0209] And, according to another embodiment of the present invention, when the second driving motor (3127) is fixed to the left side of the first vertical rotation speaker unit (312), the second motor receiving portion is formed on one side of the inside of the speaker housing (1), and is formed at a position corresponding to the position where the second driving motor (3127) is arranged.

[0210] When the rotation axis of the second drive motor (3127) rotates clockwise or counterclockwise, the second worm shaft (3125a) and the second worm (3125b) of the second worm gear unit (3125) also rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. Accordingly, the second speaker unit (3121) and the second speaker support unit (3122) rotate in one direction or in the opposite direction of one direction with the speaker rotation axis (3113) as the rotation axis.

[0211] Meanwhile, the left rotating speaker unit (32) is placed on the left side of the fixed speaker assembly (2).

[0212] The left rotation speaker unit includes a left-right rotation speaker unit (321) and an up-down rotation speaker unit (322). The left-right rotation speaker unit (321) may be referred to as a 'second left-right rotation speaker unit (321)', and the up-down rotation speaker unit may be referred to as a 'second up-down rotation speaker unit (322)'.

[0213] The second left-right rotation speaker unit (321) and the second up-down rotation speaker unit (322) are placed in the speaker receiving unit (11) formed in the speaker housing (1).

[0214] The second left-right rotation speaker unit (321) and the second up-down rotation speaker unit (322) are placed on the left side of the speaker housing (1).

[0215] Specifically, the second left-right rotating speaker unit (321) is placed in the speaker receiving unit (11) formed on the left edge of the speaker housing (1).

[0216] And, the second vertical rotation speaker unit (322) is placed in the speaker receiving unit (11) formed next to the speaker receiving unit (11) in which the second left-right rotation speaker unit (321) is placed.

[0217] The second vertical rotation speaker unit (322) is positioned between the second left-right rotation speaker unit (321) and the fixed speaker assembly (2). This is to minimize interference between sounds output from the second vertical rotation speaker unit (322) and the second left-right rotation speaker unit (321).

[0218] The second left and right rotating speaker unit (321) can rotate left or right.

[0219] The second left-right rotation speaker unit (321) is formed identically or similarly to the first left-right rotation speaker unit (311) described above, and has identical or similar components.

[0220] The second left-right rotation speaker unit (321) has a different placement position and rotation direction compared to the first left-right rotation speaker unit (311).

[0221] In describing the second left-right rotation speaker unit (321) below, the configuration or part that is distinct from the first left-right rotation speaker unit (311) described above is described, and the same or similar configuration or part is replaced with the description of the first left-right rotation speaker unit (311).

[0222] When the third worm equipped in the second left-right rotation speaker unit (321) rotates clockwise, the third worm wheel unit equipped in the second left-right rotation speaker unit (321) rotates to the left.

[0223] Accordingly, the third speaker section and the third speaker support section provided in the second left-right rotation speaker section (321) rotate to the left with the speaker rotation axis as the rotation axis, and the third speaker section and the third speaker support section face to the left.

[0224] At this time, the first speaker unit (3111) and the first speaker support unit (3112) of the first left-right rotating speaker unit (311) rotate to the right with the speaker rotation axis (3113) as the rotation axis, and the first speaker unit (3111) and the first speaker support unit (3112) face the right.

[0225] And, when the third worm rotates counterclockwise, the third worm wheel part rotates to the right.

[0226] Accordingly, the third speaker section and the third speaker support section rotate to the right with the speaker rotation axis as the rotation axis, and the third speaker section and the third speaker support section face to the right.

[0227] At this time, the first speaker unit (3111) and the first speaker support unit (3112) of the first left-right rotating speaker unit (311) rotate to the left about the speaker rotation axis (3113), and the first speaker unit (3111) and the first speaker support unit (3112) face the left.

[0228] In other words, when the third speaker unit rotates to the left and faces the left, the first speaker unit (3111) rotates to the right and faces the right.

[0229] For example, the first speaker unit (3111) rotates to the right to face the right side wall of the room, and the third speaker unit rotates to the left to face the left side wall of the room.

[0230] The sound coming from the first speaker section (3111) goes toward the right side wall of the room, and the sound coming from the third speaker section goes toward the left side wall of the room.

[0231] The second vertical rotating speaker unit (322) can rotate up or down.

[0232] The second vertical rotation speaker unit (322) is formed identically or similarly to the first vertical rotation speaker unit (312) described above, and has identical or similar components.

[0233] The second vertical rotation speaker unit (322) has a different arrangement position compared to the first vertical rotation speaker unit (312).

[0234] In describing the second vertical rotation speaker unit (322) below, a configuration or part that is distinct from the first vertical rotation speaker unit (312) described above is described, and the same or similar configuration or part is replaced with the description of the first vertical rotation speaker unit (312).

[0235] When the fourth worm equipped in the second vertical rotation speaker unit (322) rotates clockwise, the fourth worm wheel unit equipped in the second vertical rotation speaker unit (322) rotates in one direction.

[0236] Accordingly, the fourth speaker section and the fourth speaker support section provided in the second vertical rotation speaker section (322) rotate in one direction with the speaker rotation axis as the rotation axis, and the fourth speaker section and the fourth speaker support section face upward.

[0237] At this time, the second speaker unit (3121) and the second speaker support unit (3122) of the first vertically rotating speaker unit (312) rotate in one direction with the speaker rotation axis (3113) as the rotation axis, and the second speaker unit (3121) and the second speaker support unit (3122) face upward.

[0238] And, when the fourth worm rotates counterclockwise, the fourth worm wheel part rotates in the opposite direction of one direction.

[0239] Accordingly, the fourth speaker section and the fourth speaker support section rotate in opposite directions with the speaker rotation axis as the rotation axis, and the fourth speaker section and the fourth speaker support section face downward.

[0240] At this time, the second speaker unit (3121) and the second speaker support unit (3122) of the first vertically rotating speaker unit (312) rotate in opposite directions about the speaker rotation axis (3113), and the second speaker unit (3121) and the second speaker support unit (3122) face downward.

[0241] In other words, when the fourth speaker unit rotates in one direction and looks upward, the second speaker unit (3121) also rotates in one direction and looks upward.

[0242] For example, the second speaker section (3121) and the fourth speaker section rotate in one direction to look at the ceiling of the room.

[0243] The sound coming from the second speaker section (3121) and the fourth speaker section goes toward the ceiling of the room.

[0244] Figure 2 illustrates an example of components of the soundbar of the present invention.

[0245] A sound bar according to an example of an embodiment of the present invention includes a control unit (4).

[0246] The control unit (4) typically controls the overall operation of the sound bar.

[0247] The control unit (4) includes a memory. The memory stores data and sound sources that support various functions of the sound bar of the present invention.

[0248] The memory stores not only the sound source, but also a number of application programs (or applications) that run on the sound bar, data for the operation of the sound bar, and commands.

[0249] Some applications may be downloaded from an external server via wireless communication. Additionally, some applications may be pre-installed on the sound bar to support its basic functions (e.g., audio output).

[0250] The application can be stored in memory, installed in the sound bar, and driven by the control unit (4) to perform the operation (or function) of the sound bar.

[0251] The control unit (4) can provide or process appropriate sound to the user by processing signals, data, information, etc. input or output by the user or a built-in program, or by operating sound sources and application programs stored in memory.

[0252] In addition, the control unit (4) can control the components illustrated in Fig. 2 to drive sound sources and application programs stored in the memory. Furthermore, the control unit (4) can operate two or more of the components included in the sound bar in combination to drive sound sources and application programs.

[0253] A sound bar according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a motor drive unit (44). The motor drive unit (44) rotates a rotary speaker assembly (3).

[0254] The motor driving unit (44) operates the first driving motor (3117) to the fourth driving motor described above. The third driving motor rotates the third speaker unit provided in the second left-right rotation speaker unit (321), and the fourth driving motor rotates the fourth speaker unit provided in the second up-down rotation speaker unit (322).

[0255] The motor drive unit (44) is electrically connected to the control unit (4) and the first to fourth drive motors (3117).

[0256] The motor driving unit (44) receives a control signal from the control unit (4) and supplies electricity to the first driving motor (3117) to the fourth driving motor to drive the first driving motor (3117) to the fourth driving motor, and can also rotate the rotation shaft of the first driving motor (3117) to the fourth driving motor in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

[0257] The control unit (4) operates the first drive motor (3117) to the fourth drive motor via the motor drive unit (44).

[0258] A sound bar according to an example of an embodiment of the present invention includes an audio output unit (45).

[0259] The audio output unit (45) operates the first speaker unit (3111) to the fourth speaker unit described above.

[0260] That is, the sound output unit (45) outputs sound from the first speaker unit (3111) to the fourth speaker unit.

[0261] Additionally, the sound output unit (45) outputs sound from the center fixed speaker (21), the left fixed speaker (23), and the right fixed speaker (22) of the fixed speaker assembly (2).

[0262] The sound output unit (45) is electrically connected to the control unit (4) and the speakers (the first speaker unit (3111) to the fourth speaker unit, the center fixed speaker (21), the left fixed speaker (23), and the right fixed speaker (22)) arranged in the sound bar of the present invention.

[0263] The sound output unit (45) receives a control signal from the control unit (4) and supplies electricity to the speakers arranged in the sound bar of the present invention so that sound sources can be output from the speakers.

[0264] The control unit (4) causes sound to be output from the speakers placed in the sound bar of the present invention through the sound output unit (45).

[0265] A sound bar according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a power supply unit (46).

[0266] The power supply unit (46) is provided in the sound bar of the present invention and supplies electricity to all components that are operated by electricity.

[0267] The power supply unit (46) is electrically connected to the control unit (4) and components that operate by electricity.

[0268] The power supply unit (46) receives a control signal from the control unit (4) and can supply or not supply electricity to components that operate by electricity.

[0269] The control unit (4) may or may not supply electricity to components that operate by electricity via the power supply unit (46).

[0270] A sound bar according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a voice recognition and processing unit (47).

[0271] The voice recognition and processing unit (47) can recognize the user's voice, convert the recognized voice into an electrical signal, and transmit the converted electrical signal to the control unit (4).

[0272] A user can operate the sound bar of the present invention through voice without using a remote control or mobile phone.

[0273] The voice recognition and processing unit (47) is electrically connected to the control unit (4).

[0274] The control unit (4) can receive an electrical signal from the voice recognition and processing unit (47) and operate the motor drive unit (44), sound output unit (45), and power supply unit (46).

[0275] The control unit (4) of the present invention can be electrically connected to a home hub (41) (Home Hub, Gateway). The home hub (41) is electrically connected to various electrical and electronic devices such as home appliances and communication devices, and is interoperable with them.

[0276] The control unit (4) is electrically connected to the home hub (41), and can thus be linked with various home appliances and electrical and electronic devices that are electrically connected to the home hub (41).

[0277] A sound bar according to an example of an embodiment of the present invention may include a camera sensor unit (42).

[0278] The camera sensor unit (42) is placed in the speaker housing (1). The placement location of the camera sensor unit (42) shown in Fig. 13 is an example, and it may be placed in another location in the speaker housing (1).

[0279] The camera sensor unit (42) can detect the location of a user or a home appliance, and can also detect space and analyze the shape of the space.

[0280] The camera sensor unit (42) may be a commonly used image sensor.

[0281] For example, the camera sensor unit (42) may be a ToF (Time of Flight) camera.

[0282] A ToF camera outputs a signal (such as near-infrared, ultrasound, or laser) and measures the time it takes for it to be reflected, calculating the distance to the target, and is a camera that outputs a depth image.

[0283] The camera sensor unit (42) is electrically connected to the control unit (4).

[0284] The camera sensor unit (42) receives a control signal from the control unit (4), detects the location and space of the user or home appliance, and transmits the location data of the user or home appliance and the shape data of the space back to the control unit (4).

[0285] The control unit (4) can detect the position of the user or the home appliance and the shape of the space through the camera sensor unit (42), and control the motor drive unit (44), the sound output unit (45), and the power supply unit (46), etc., so that actual surround sound (e.g., 5.1 channel and 7.1 channel sound) or sound close thereto is transmitted to the user from the first speaker unit (3111) to the fourth speaker.

[0286] A sound bar according to an example of an embodiment of the present invention may include a communication unit (43) or be electrically connected to an external communication unit (43).

[0287] The communication unit (43) represents a device that can transmit or receive, for example, a Bluetooth signal, a Wi-Fi signal, or an Ultra-WideBand (UWB) frequency. The communication unit (43) includes a transmitting device that transmits a Bluetooth signal, a Wi-Fi signal, or an Ultra-WideBand (UWB) frequency, and a receiving device that receives the same.

[0288] The sound bar of the present invention can transmit and receive Bluetooth signals, Wi-Fi signals, or ultra-wideband (UWB) frequencies through the communication unit (43).

[0289] A sound bar according to an embodiment of the present invention can implement surround sound.

[0290] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing that the sound bar of the present invention implements 5.1 channel sound, FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing that the sound bar of the present invention implements surround sound, and FIG. 10 is a diagram showing that the sound bar of the present invention implements 7.1 channel sound.

[0291] Specifically, a sound bar according to an example of an embodiment of the present invention can implement 5.1 channel surround sound.

[0292] When a sound source that the user wants to play is input (S10), the control unit (4) determines whether the input sound source is a 5.1 channel sound source (S11).

[0293] If the sound source is 5.1 channels, the camera sensor unit (42) detects the user's location and space, measures the user's location, and analyzes the shape of the space in which the user is located (S14).

[0294] The camera sensor unit (42) transmits data analyzing the user's location and space to the control unit (4).

[0295] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the camera sensor unit (42) can detect the user's location and space and transmit data related thereto to the control unit (4). The control unit (4) can analyze the user's location and the shape of the space using the transmitted user's location data and space data.

[0296] The control unit (4) outputs an electrical signal to the motor drive unit (44) using the analysis data transmitted from the camera sensor unit (42) or the data analyzed by the control unit (4) (S15).

[0297] That is, the control unit (4) operates the first drive motor (3117) and the third drive motor via the motor drive unit (44), thereby rotating the first speaker unit (3111) of the first left-right rotation speaker unit (311) and the third speaker unit of the second left-right rotation speaker unit (321).

[0298] At this time, the first speaker unit (3111) rotates to face the right side wall of the room, and the third speaker unit rotates to face the left side wall of the room.

[0299] The rotation angles of the first speaker unit (3111) and the third speaker unit are controlled by the control unit (4) (specifically, an application program built into the memory).

[0300] When the rotation of the first speaker section (3111) and the third speaker section is completed, the control section (4) outputs an electrical signal to the sound output section (45) so that the sound source is reproduced (S16).

[0301] The sound output section (45) outputs sound from the first speaker section (3111), the third speaker section, the center fixed speaker (21) of the fixed speaker assembly (2), the left fixed speaker (23), and the right fixed speaker (22).

[0302] As a result, the user hears 5.1 channel surround sound from the speakers placed in the speaker housing (1).

[0303] The above 5.1 channel surround sound is heard as sound output from the center fixed speaker (21) placed in the speaker housing (1), sound output from the left fixed speaker (23), sound output from the right fixed speaker (22), sound output from the first speaker unit (3111) reflected off the right side wall of the room, sound output from the third speaker unit reflected off the left side wall of the room, and sound output from the woofer. The woofer may be placed outside the speaker housing (1) (see FIG. 8 and FIG. 110) or may be placed in the speaker housing (1).

[0304] The sound output from the first speaker unit (3111) reflected on the right side wall of the room replaces the sound output from the speaker placed on the rear right of the user, which is typically used in 5.1 channels.

[0305] And, the sound output from the third speaker section is reflected off the left side wall of the room and is heard as a substitute for the sound output from the speaker placed on the rear left side of the user, which is usually used in 5.1 channels.

[0306] When the sound bar of the present invention is placed, for example, in front of a user, as described above, the sound bar of the present invention can implement actual surround sound (5.1 channel sound) by using the speakers placed in the sound bar without separate rear speakers (speakers placed on the rear right and speakers placed on the rear left).

[0307] Meanwhile, the control unit (4) determines whether the input sound source is not a 5.1 channel sound source or a 7.1 channel sound source (S12).

[0308] If the sound source is 7.1 channels, the camera sensor unit (42) detects the user's location and space, measures the user's location, and analyzes the shape of the space. The process of S14 described above is performed.

[0309] The control unit (4) outputs an electrical signal to the motor drive unit (44) using the analysis data transmitted from the camera sensor unit (42) or the data analyzed by the control unit (4) (S15).

[0310] That is, the control unit (4) operates the first drive motor (3117) to the fourth drive motor via the motor drive unit (44) to rotate the first speaker unit (3111) and the second speaker unit (3121) of the right rotation speaker unit (31) and the third speaker unit and the fourth speaker unit of the left rotation speaker unit (32).

[0311] At this time, the first speaker unit (3111) rotates to face the right side wall of the room, the second speaker unit (3121) rotates to face the right ceiling of the room, the third speaker unit rotates to face the left side wall of the room, and the fourth speaker unit rotates to face the left ceiling of the room.

[0312] The rotation angle of the first speaker unit (3111) to the fourth speaker unit is controlled by the control unit (4) (specifically, an application program built into the memory).

[0313] When the rotation of the first speaker unit (3111) to the fourth speaker unit is completed, the control unit (4) outputs an electrical signal to the sound output unit (45) so that the sound source is reproduced (S16).

[0314] The sound output section (45) outputs sound from the first speaker section (3111) to the fourth speaker section, the center fixed speaker (21) of the fixed speaker assembly (2), the left fixed speaker (23), and the right fixed speaker (22).

[0315] As a result, the user hears 7.1 channel surround sound from the speakers placed in the speaker housing (1).

[0316] The above 7.1 channel surround sound is heard as sound output from the center fixed speaker (21), the left fixed speaker (23), and the right fixed speaker (22) arranged in the speaker housing (1), sound output from the first speaker unit (3111) reflected off the right side wall of the room, sound output from the third speaker unit reflected off the left side wall of the room, sound output from the second speaker reflected off the right ceiling of the room, sound output from the fourth speaker reflected off the left ceiling of the room, and sound output from the woofer.

[0317] The sound output from the second speaker unit (3121) reflected from the right ceiling of the room and the sound output from the fourth speaker unit reflected from the left ceiling of the room replace the sound output from the speaker placed at the rear center of the user, which is typically used in 7.1 channels.

[0318] The sound reflected off the ceiling on the right side of the room will be heard from a location a preset distance to the right of the rear center, and the sound reflected off the ceiling on the left side of the room will be heard from a location a preset distance to the left of the rear center.

[0319] When the sound bar of the present invention is placed, for example, in front of a user, as described above, the sound bar of the present invention can implement actual surround sound (7.1 channel sound) by using the speakers placed in the sound bar without separate rear speakers (a speaker placed on the rear right, a speaker placed on the rear left, and two speakers placed on the rear center).

[0320] In addition, if the input sound source is not a 5.1 channel or 7.1 channel sound source, the control unit (4) determines that the sound source is a mono or stereo sound source (e.g., a 2 channel sound source) (S13) and outputs sound accordingly (S16).

[0321] This allows the user to hear mono or stereo sound from the speakers placed in the speaker housing (1).

[0322] When the user's audio listening is completed, the sound bar of the present invention terminates the audio output (S17).

[0323] The sound bar of the present invention can output sound in place of sound output from a home appliance (e.g., an air conditioner).

[0324] Fig. 11 is an example showing a sound bar recognizing the position of an appliance and outputting sound, and Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing a sound bar recognizing the position of an appliance and outputting sound.

[0325] The user can hear the sound output from the sound bar and recognize that the sound is output from the home appliance (6).

[0326] Specifically, the control unit (4) can detect (detect) the position of the home appliance (6) and control the motor drive unit (44) and the sound output unit (45).

[0327] For example, the control unit (4) can detect (detect) the location of the home appliance (6) using a Bluetooth signal and / or trigonometric function (triangulation).

[0328] The control unit (4) sends a control signal to the motor drive unit (44), thereby operating at least one of the first drive motor (3117) to the fourth drive motor and rotating at least one of the first speaker unit (3111) to the fourth speaker unit.

[0329] And, the control unit (4) sends a control signal to the sound output unit (45) so that sound is output from at least one of the first speaker unit (3111) to the fourth speaker unit.

[0330] Sound output from one or more of the first speaker units (3111) to the fourth speaker units is reflected off the left and right side walls and / or ceiling of the room and delivered to the user. As a result, the user perceives the sound output from the sound bar as if it were being output from a home appliance.

[0331] Referring to Fig. 12, when a request is made to output sound from an appliance (e.g., an air conditioner) (6) (S20), the sound bar of the present invention (specifically, the control unit (4)) scans for a Bluetooth signal output from the appliance (6) (S21). If there is no Bluetooth signal, the sound bar detects whether a request is made to output sound from the appliance (6).

[0332] The sound bar connects to the Bluetooth signal when a Bluetooth signal is detected (S22). If the sound bar is not connected to the Bluetooth signal, it detects whether sound output is requested from the home appliance (6) and searches for a Bluetooth signal.

[0333] When the sound bar (control unit (4)) is connected to a Bluetooth signal, it calculates the distance to the home appliance using the Bluetooth received signal strength indicator (RSSI) value and trigonometric function (S23).

[0334] The distance between the appliance (6) and the sound bar is estimated from the received signal strength (RSSI) value. The location of the transmitter can be estimated from the known power of the transmitter and the measured signal attenuation.

[0335] When the sound bar (control unit (4)) calculates the distance to the home appliance (6), it detects the location of the home appliance (6) (S24). If the location of the home appliance (6) is not detected, the sound bar repeatedly calculates the distance to the home appliance (6).

[0336] The location of the home appliance (6) is detected using the received signal strength (RSSI) value, the angle of arrival (AoA) and the angle of departure (AoD) of each transmitter and receiver. Since the received signal strength (RSSI) value, the angle of arrival (AoA) and the angle of departure (AoD) correspond to known technologies, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0337] The sound bar can determine its location by measuring the angle of arrival (AoA) of the received signal and finding the direction of the signal coming from a transmitter (e.g., a home appliance (6)) relative to the signal source.

[0338] Additionally, the sound bar can determine the position of the appliance (6) by measuring the angle of attack (AoD) of a signal transmitted from a transmitter (e.g., the appliance (6)).

[0339] When the position of the home appliance (6) is detected, the sound bar rotates the speaker placed on the sound bar (S25).

[0340] Specifically, the control unit (4) sends a control signal to the motor driving unit (44) to operate at least one of the first driving motor (3117) to the fourth driving motor and rotate at least one of the first speaker unit (3111) to the fourth speaker unit.

[0341] The rotation angle of the first speaker unit (3111) to the fourth speaker unit is determined by the control unit (4) (specifically, an application program built into the memory).

[0342] When the rotation of the speaker section is completed, the sound bar plays the sound source (S26).

[0343] Specifically, the control unit (4) sends a control signal to the sound output unit (45) so that sound is output from at least one of the first speaker unit (3111) to the fourth speaker unit.

[0344] The sound output from the speaker unit is reflected off the left and right side walls and / or ceiling of the room and delivered to the user. The user perceives the sound output from the sound bar as if it were output from a home appliance (6).

[0345] When sound output from the speaker section is completed, sound source playback is completed (S27).

[0346] The method of detecting (sensing) the location of a home appliance (6) using a Bluetooth signal as described above can also be applied to detecting (sensing) the location of a user.

[0347] If the user has a mobile phone or remote control with Bluetooth function, the sound bar of the present invention can detect the user's location.

[0348] Even if the sound bar of the present invention does not have a camera sensor unit (42), if the user carries a mobile phone (or remote control), the sound bar of the present invention (control unit (4)) can detect the user's location and analyze the space.

[0349] A user connects a Bluetooth signal to the sound bar of the present invention using a mobile phone (or remote control). The mobile phone (or remote control) continuously provides location information to the sound bar of the present invention.

[0350] Specifically, when searching for a user's location on the sound bar, the sound bar (control unit (4)) measures the received signal strength (RSSI) value of the connected Bluetooth signal to find the location of the mobile phone (or remote control).

[0351] The sound bar (control unit (4)) detects the user's position and analyzes the space, then rotates the speaker unit and plays the sound source.

[0352] This allows the user to listen to actual surround sound (5.1 channel or 7.1 channel sound) through the sound bar of the present invention.

[0353] Additionally, Ultra-WideBand (UWB) technology can be applied as a method for detecting (sensing) the location of home appliances and users. Since the UWB technology is a well-known technology, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0354] Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology is a wireless communication technology that transmits data over an ultra-wide frequency band. It transmits a frequency signal toward an electronic device and measures the time it takes for the signal to travel to and from that device, allowing the device's location to be calculated.

[0355] Even if the sound bar of the present invention does not have a camera sensor unit (42), if the user has a mobile phone or remote control to which ultra-wideband (UWB) technology is applied, the sound bar of the present invention (control unit (4)) can detect the user's location and analyze the space.

[0356] When searching for a user's location on the sound bar, the sound bar (control unit (4)) uses ultra-wideband (UWB) technology to find the location of the mobile phone (or remote control).

[0357] The sound bar (control unit (4)) detects the user's position and analyzes the space, then rotates the speaker unit and plays the sound source.

[0358] Additionally, the user's location can be detected using vision cameras installed inside a building or vision cameras mounted on home appliances.

[0359] When a vision camera is mounted on the interior of a building or on an appliance, and the vision camera is linked with a communication unit (43) provided in the sound bar of the present invention, the sound bar (control unit (4)) can obtain the user's location information from the vision camera.

[0360] Alternatively, if a vision camera mounted on an interior of a building or an appliance is electrically connected to a home hub (41) (Gateway), and the sound bar of the present invention is linked to the home hub (41), the sound bar (control unit (4)) can obtain the user's location information from the home hub (41).

[0361] The sound bar (control unit (4)) can rotate the speaker and play sound sources using the user's location information, and can provide the user with actual surround sound (5.1 channel or 7.1 channel sound).

[0362] Meanwhile, a method of determining the user's location and rotating the speaker unit using the camera sensor unit (42) of the sound bar of the present invention is exemplarily explained.

[0363] The sound bar (control unit (4)) of the present invention recognizes a user based on the camera vision recognition (user detection and recognition, situation recognition, etc.) of the camera sensor unit (42), and sends a control signal to the motor driving unit (44) according to the distance and angle information of the recognized user, thereby rotating the speaker unit of the rotating speaker assembly (3) to provide a sound viewing angle according to the user's position.

[0364] This allows users to hear real surround sound (such as 5.1 channel or 7.1 channel sound).

[0365] Figure 14 is a flowchart showing how to rotate the speaker unit in the direction in which the user is positioned.

[0366] The camera sensor unit (42) starts operating by a control signal from the control unit (4) (S30).

[0367] The camera sensor unit (42) may be, for example, a ToF camera. A ToF camera is a type of image sensor that measures three-dimensional distance (3D depth).

[0368] The camera sensor unit (42) recognizes the user through camera vision recognition and tracks the user (S31).

[0369] When a user is recognized, the camera sensor unit (42) calculates the distance between the camera sensor unit (42) and the user (S32).

[0370] Then, the camera sensor unit (42) calculates the user's location coordinate values ​​and transmits the calculated user's location coordinate values ​​to the control unit (4).

[0371] When the control unit (4) receives the user's location coordinate values ​​(S33), it calculates the angle between the camera sensor unit (42) (or speaker unit) and the side wall and / or ceiling of the room based on the user's location coordinate values ​​(S34).

[0372] The control unit (4) rotates the speaker unit based on the angle value between the camera sensor unit (42) and the side wall and / or ceiling of the room (S35).

[0373] Specifically, the control unit (4) sends a control signal to the motor driving unit (44) to operate at least one of the first driving motor (3117) to the fourth driving motor and rotate at least one of the first speaker unit (3111) to the fourth speaker unit.

[0374] When the rotation of the speaker unit is completed, the control unit (4) plays the sound source (S36).

[0375] Specifically, the control unit (4) sends a control signal to the sound output unit (45) so that sound is output from at least one of the first speaker unit (3111) to the fourth speaker unit.

[0376] The sound output from the speaker section is reflected off the left and right side walls and / or ceiling of the room and delivered to the user, allowing the user to hear actual surround sound (such as 5.1 channel or 7.1 channel sound).

[0377] The control unit (4) detects (detects) whether the user is moving, i.e., whether the user's location coordinate value is fixed, while playing sound (S37).

[0378] If the user does not move, i.e., the user's location coordinate values ​​are fixed, the control unit (4) switches the camera sensor unit (42) to standby mode (S38).

[0379] As the user continues to move and the user's location coordinate values ​​change, the camera sensor unit (42) recognizes the user through camera vision recognition and continues to track the user (S31).

Claims

1. Speaker housing forming the exterior; A fixed speaker assembly positioned in the middle of the above speaker housing; It includes a rotating speaker assembly positioned on the left and right sides of the fixed speaker assembly, respectively. The above rotary speaker assembly is a sound bar that can be rotated by a motor drive unit.

2. In paragraph 1, The above fixed speaker assembly, A sound bar comprising a center fixed speaker positioned at the center of the speaker housing, a right fixed speaker positioned to the right of the center fixed speaker, and a left fixed speaker positioned to the left of the center fixed speaker.

3. In paragraph 1, The above rotary speaker assembly, A right rotating speaker unit positioned on the right side of the above fixed speaker assembly; and A sound bar comprising a left rotating speaker unit positioned on the left side of the above fixed speaker assembly.

4. In paragraph 3, The above right rotation speaker section includes a first left-right rotation speaker section including a first speaker section capable of rotating left or right, The above left rotational speaker section includes a second left-right rotational speaker section including a second speaker section capable of rotating left or right, A sound bar in which when the first speaker section rotates to the right, the second speaker section rotates to the left.

5. In paragraph 4, The first left and right rotation speaker section includes a first speaker support section that supports the first speaker section, The second left and right rotating speaker section includes a second speaker support section that supports the second speaker section, In each of the first speaker support and the second speaker support, the first speaker rotation axis and the second speaker rotation axis are formed to protrude in opposite directions, A sound bar, wherein the first speaker section and the first speaker support section, and the second speaker section and the second speaker support section rotate left or right about the first speaker rotation axis and the second speaker rotation axis as rotation axes.

6. In paragraph 5, Each of the first left-right rotation speaker section and the second left-right rotation speaker section, A first worm wheel part formed on the first speaker rotation axis; A first worm gear portion having a first worm meshing with the first worm wheel portion; and A first driving motor connected to the first worm gear part and operated by the motor driving part is included. A sound bar, wherein the upper surface of the first worm wheel portion is arranged horizontally.

7. In paragraph 4, The above right rotation speaker section includes a first up-and-down rotation speaker section including a third speaker section capable of rotating up or down, The above left rotational speaker section includes a second up-and-down rotational speaker section including a fourth speaker section capable of rotating up or down, A sound bar in which the third speaker section and the fourth speaker section rotate together in one direction and face upward.

8. In paragraph 7, The first vertical rotation speaker unit is positioned between the fixed speaker assembly and the first left-right rotation speaker unit, A sound bar, wherein the second vertical rotation speaker unit is positioned between the fixed speaker assembly and the second left-right rotation speaker unit.

9. In paragraph 7, The above first vertical rotation speaker section includes a third speaker support section that supports the third speaker section, The second upper and lower rotating speaker section includes a fourth speaker support section that supports the fourth speaker section, In each of the third speaker support and the fourth speaker support, the third speaker rotation axis and the fourth speaker rotation axis are formed to protrude in opposite directions, A sound bar, wherein the third speaker section and the third speaker support section, and the fourth speaker section and the fourth speaker support section rotate up or down about the third speaker rotation axis and the fourth speaker rotation axis as rotation axes.

10. In paragraph 9, Each of the first up-and-down rotation speaker section and the second up-and-down rotation speaker section, A second worm wheel part formed on the third speaker rotation axis; A second worm gear section having a second worm meshing with the second worm wheel section; and A second driving motor connected to the second worm gear part and operated by the motor driving part is included. A sound bar in which the upper surface of the second worm wheel portion is arranged vertically.

11. In paragraph 1, Including a control unit and a camera sensor unit, When a sound source is input, the above control unit determines whether the sound source is a 5.1 channel or 7.1 channel sound source. A sound bar in which the above camera sensor measures the user's location and analyzes the shape of the space in which the user is located.

12. In paragraph 11, A sound bar in which the control unit outputs an electric signal to the motor driving unit using the analysis data transmitted from the camera sensor unit to rotate the speaker unit of the rotary speaker assembly.

13. In paragraph 1, Including a control unit, A sound bar in which the control unit detects the location of the home appliance using a Bluetooth signal and sends a control signal to the motor driving unit to rotate the speaker unit of the rotating speaker assembly.

14. In paragraph 13, The above control unit searches for a Bluetooth signal output from the home appliance, and when the Bluetooth signal is searched, connects to the Bluetooth signal. The above control unit calculates the distance to the home appliance using the Bluetooth received signal strength (RSSI) value and trigonometric function.

15. In paragraph 14, The above control unit calculates the distance to the home appliance, detects the location of the home appliance, and A sound bar, wherein the location of the above appliance is detected using the received signal strength (RSSI) value, angle of arrival (AoA) and angle of departure (AoD).

16. In paragraph 1, Including a control unit and a camera sensor unit, A sound bar in which the control unit recognizes a user based on camera vision recognition of the camera sensor unit, and sends a control signal to the motor driving unit according to the distance and angle information of the recognized user, thereby rotating the speaker unit of the rotating speaker assembly to provide a sound field of view according to the user's position.

17. In paragraph 16, The above camera sensor unit recognizes the user through the camera vision recognition and tracks the user. The above camera sensor unit calculates the distance between the camera sensor unit and the user when the user is recognized, A sound bar, wherein the camera sensor unit calculates the user's location coordinate values ​​and transmits the calculated user's location coordinate values ​​to the control unit.

18. In paragraph 17, The control unit receives the user's location coordinate values ​​and calculates the angle between the camera sensor unit and the side wall or ceiling of the room based on the user's location coordinate values. A sound bar in which the control unit sends a control signal to the motor driving unit based on the angle value between the camera sensor unit and the side wall or ceiling of the room, thereby rotating the speaker unit of the rotating speaker assembly.

Images