Speaker device

Abstract

A speaker device is disclosed. The speaker device may rotate due to the housing shape and a mass member provided therein, without an additional driving unit outside a housing. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the speaker device comprises a front portion, a housing, a driving unit, and a rear portion. The housing is formed in a cylindrical shape, and the cross-sectional diameter of one side of the housing is greater than the cross-sectional diameter of the other side of the housing. The housing is rotated by the driving unit, whereby the direction of a speaker unit is changed.

Description

Speaker device

[0001] The present invention relates to a speaker device.

[0002] Typically, a speaker device that outputs sound is placed on a support (e.g., a tabletop) without rotating or moving.

[0003] Since the speaker unit does not rotate or move, it outputs sound in only one direction, even if the user listening to the sound moves within the same space.

[0004] If the speaker device rotates along with the direction of the user's movement when the user moves, the user can hear clearer sound.

[0005] Korean Published Patent No. 10-2018-0029636 (published March 21, 2018) presents a pest repellent equipped with a super-directional speaker that rotates in the direction of the detected sound. The aforementioned published patent proposes a method of detecting sound by equipping multiple microphones installed in the four directions of east, west, north, and south, detecting the direction of the sound from the microphone that detects the loudest sound signal among them, and rotating the speaker in the direction of the detected sound by motor driving.

[0006] If the user's location is detected by distinguishing surrounding sounds rather than by sound intensity, the user's location can be clearly identified even if multiple sounds are detected at the same intensity.

[0007] In addition, if the speaker device rotates along the direction of movement of the user by utilizing the shape of the speaker device's housing, it is not necessary to place a separate driving unit on the outside of the speaker device, so manufacturing will be simple and manufacturing costs will be reduced.

[0008] The objective of the present invention is to provide a speaker device that detects the user's location by distinguishing ambient sounds and rotates along the user's direction of movement using the shape of the housing.

[0009] The aforementioned objective of the present invention is achieved by the specific details described below.

[0010] A speaker device according to an example of an embodiment of the present invention comprises a front portion, a housing, a driving portion, and a rear portion. The front portion outputs sound from the speaker portion. The housing accommodates the speaker portion, and one side of the housing is connected to the front portion. The driving portion is disposed in the internal space of the housing. The rear portion is connected to the other side of the housing. Furthermore, the housing is formed in a cylindrical shape, and the cross-sectional diameter of one side of the housing is formed to be larger than the cross-sectional diameter of the other side of the housing. The housing rotates by the driving portion, thereby changing the direction of the speaker portion.

[0011] Specifically, the housing comprises an intermediate side and an internal partition formed on the intermediate side. The intermediate side is positioned between one side and the other side of the housing and connects the one side and the other side of the housing. The internal partition is formed in the internal space of the intermediate side, dividing the internal space of the intermediate side into an internal space on one side and an internal space on the other side. Furthermore, the internal space on the one side communicates with an opening on one side of the housing to form a single space, and the internal space on the other side communicates with an opening on the other side of the housing to form a single space.

[0012] Specifically, the driving unit includes a motor and a mass member that rotates by the driving of the motor. The motor is disposed in an internal space on one side of the housing, and the mass member is disposed in an internal space on the other side of the housing. The rotational shaft of the motor is disposed in a motor shaft hole in an internal partition of the housing, and one side of the mass member is connected to the rotational shaft.

[0013] Specifically, the mass member is divided into one side and the other side. The weight of the other side is formed to be heavier than the weight of the one side of the mass member, so that the center of gravity of the mass member is located on the other side of the mass member. When no external force acts on the mass member, the one side of the mass member is positioned to face upward and the other side to face downward.

[0014] Specifically, when the other side of the mass member rotates in one rotational direction by the drive of the motor, the center of gravity of the mass member rises to a certain height from the lowest point in the vertical direction. When the other side of the mass member completes rotation in the one rotational direction, the motor stops the rotation, and the center of gravity of the mass member is maintained at a certain height.

[0015] Specifically, due to the action of gravity, the other side of the mass member rotates in the direction opposite to the direction of rotation, and the center of gravity of the mass member returns to its original position, the lowest point. The housing rotates together with the mass member in the direction opposite to the direction of rotation.

[0016] Specifically, the rear portion includes a rear inner cover. The rear inner cover is positioned in the internal space on the other side of the housing and covers a mass member.

[0017] Specifically, the rear portion includes a rear cover. The rear cover is positioned on the other side of the housing and covers the rear inner cover. An off-side friction member is positioned at the edge of the rear cover or at the edge of the other side of the housing.

[0018] Specifically, a substrate is placed on one side of the rear inner cover or on one side of the rear cover. The one side of the rear inner cover and the one side of the rear cover are surfaces facing each other.

[0019] A speaker device according to an example of an embodiment of the present invention includes a sensor unit. The sensor unit detects the sound of a user using beamforming microphone technology.

[0020] A speaker device according to an example of an embodiment of the present invention includes a sensor case. The sensor case is positioned on the front and accommodates a sensor unit. The sensor case is formed in a ring shape, and a sensor receiving portion for accommodating the sensor unit is formed in the body of the sensor case formed in the ring shape.

[0021] A speaker device according to an example of an embodiment of the present invention includes a control unit. The control unit is electrically connected to a sensor unit and a driving unit. A user's sound detected by the sensor unit is converted into sound data and transmitted to the control unit, and the control unit analyzes the sound data to detect the user's location and drives the driving unit.

[0022] Specifically, the mass member is formed such that the weight on one side is heavier than the weight on the other side. When a user is positioned at a preset angle from the front direction of the front part, the control unit rotates the motor to cause the other side of the mass member to rotate toward the direction where the user is located.

[0023] Specifically, the front portion includes a front cover. The front cover is disposed on one side of the housing. A friction member is disposed on the edge of the front cover or on the edge of one side of the housing.

[0024] Specifically, the front portion includes a front inner cover. The front inner cover is positioned on one side of the housing and is covered by the front cover, supports the speaker portion, and covers the internal space of the housing in which the speaker portion and the driving portion are accommodated.

[0025] Specifically, the outer surface of the housing is formed as a curved surface, or the outer surface of the housing is formed such that a plurality of flat surfaces are arranged continuously along the circumferential direction of the housing, or the outer surface of one side of the housing and the outer surface of the middle side of the housing are formed as curved surfaces and the edge of the other side of the housing is formed in a polygonal band shape.

[0026] A speaker device according to an example of an embodiment of the present invention detects the user's location by distinguishing ambient sounds rather than by the loudness of the sound, so that even if the sensor unit detects multiple sounds of the same loudness, the user's location can be clearly found.

[0027] In addition, since the speaker device according to the embodiment of the present invention rotates to the user's position using the shape of the housing, it has the effect of not requiring a separate driving unit to be placed outside the speaker device.

[0028] More detailed effects of the speaker device of the present invention are described in the embodiments for implementing the invention below.

[0029] FIG. 1 shows a speaker device of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of the speaker device of Figure 1.

[0031] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the speaker device of Figure 1.

[0032] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the speaker device of Figure 1.

[0033] Figure 5 shows the front inner cover of Figure 4.

[0034] Figure 6 shows the sensor case of Figure 4.

[0035] Figure 7 shows the duct member of Figure 4.

[0036] Figure 8 shows the housing of Figure 4.

[0037] FIG. 9 shows an example of another embodiment of the housing.

[0038] Figure 10 shows the driving unit of Figure 4.

[0039] Figure 11 shows the movement of the speaker device of Figure 1.

[0040] FIGS. 12 to 15 are graphs showing speaker devices and their vibrations according to examples of embodiments of the present invention.

[0041] Figures 16 and 17 illustrate beamforming microphone technology.

[0042] Figure 18 is a block diagram showing the control unit.

[0043] Examples of embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the attached drawings. Regarding components of the present invention that can be clearly understood and easily reproduced by a person skilled in the art according to the prior art, specific descriptions thereof are omitted in order not to obscure the essence of the present invention.

[0044] The attached drawings are intended only to facilitate understanding of examples of embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical concept disclosed in this specification is not limited by the attached drawings.

[0045] A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0046] Additionally, terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., used herein may be used to describe various components, but said components should not be limited by said terms. Such terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the first component may be named the second component, and similarly, the second component may be named the first component.

[0047] Hereinafter, a speaker device according to an example of an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0048] Hereinafter, a speaker device according to an example of an embodiment of the present invention may be briefly referred to as the "speaker device of the present invention."

[0049] The speaker device of the present invention represents an acoustic device composed of one or more speakers.

[0050] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, the speaker device (1) of the present invention includes a front part (10), a speaker part (30), a housing (50), a driving part (40), and a rear part (60).

[0051] The front portion (10) is positioned at the front of the speaker device (1) of the present invention.

[0052] Sound is output to the outside of the speaker device (1) through the front part (10).

[0053] The front part (10) includes a front cover (11), a front inner cover (12), and a sensor case (13).

[0054] The front cover (11) covers the front of the speaker device (1) and protects the speaker part (30).

[0055] The front cover (11) may be placed (or coupled) to one side (511) of the housing (50) described later. For example, the front cover (11) and the housing (50) may be coupled by inserting (fitting) the edge of the front cover (11) into one side (511) of the housing (50).

[0056] The front cover (11) is formed in a plate shape with a preset thickness and is formed in a circular shape.

[0057] The front cover (11) includes multiple holes, although they are not shown.

[0058] That is, a plurality of holes are formed in the front cover (11).

[0059] Multiple holes are holes that penetrate the front cover (11).

[0060] Sound is expelled to the outside of the speaker device (1) of the present invention through a plurality of holes.

[0061] The front cover (11) can be formed of metal (e.g., stainless steel) or plastic material.

[0062] According to an example of an embodiment of the present invention, the front cover (11) may include a friction member (not labeled).

[0063] One friction member is formed of rubber material. Specifically, one friction member can be formed of silicone material.

[0064] One friction member is formed in a ring shape.

[0065] One side friction member may be positioned (or coupled) to one side (511) of the front cover (11) or the housing (50) described later. Specifically, the one side friction member may be positioned (or coupled) along the edge of the front cover (11) or along the edge of one side (511) of the housing (50) described later.

[0066] According to an example of an embodiment of the present invention, an inner groove (not shown) is formed on the inner surface of a friction member, and the edge of a front cover (11) or the edge of one side (511) of a housing (50) is fitted into the inner groove, so that the friction member is coupled to the front cover (11) or one side (511) of the housing (50).

[0067] When a friction member is attached to one side (511) of the front cover (11) or the housing (50), the friction member wraps around the edge of the front cover (11) or the edge of the housing (50) along the circumferential direction of the front cover (11) or the housing (50) (511).

[0068] The inner groove is formed by being recessed to a predetermined depth from one surface of the friction member along the longitudinal direction (or circumferential direction) of the friction member.

[0069] The opening of the inner groove is positioned to face the edge of the front cover (11) or to face the edge of one side (511) of the housing (50).

[0070] According to an example of another embodiment of the present invention, a front cover groove (not shown) is formed along the circumferential direction of the front cover (11) on the side of the edge of the front cover (11), or a housing side groove (not shown) is formed along the circumferential direction of the housing side (511) on the side of the edge of the housing (50). Additionally, a friction member protrusion (not shown) is formed on one surface of the one side friction member.

[0071] By inserting a friction member protrusion into the front cover groove, the one-sided friction member and the front cover (11) are joined together, or by inserting a friction member protrusion into a housing one-sided groove, the one-sided friction member and one side (511) of the housing (50) are joined together.

[0072] When a protrusion of a friction member is inserted into a front cover groove or a housing groove on one side, a part of the friction member (the remainder excluding the friction member protrusion) protrudes outside the edge of the front cover (11) or the edge of one side (511) of the housing (50).

[0073] One friction member contacts the floor on which the speaker device (1) is placed.

[0074] When the speaker device (1) rotates, one friction member comes into contact with the floor, and as the one friction member is pressed against the floor by the load of the speaker device (1), a frictional force is generated between the one friction member and the floor. Due to the frictional force, rotation (shaking) is minimized after the speaker device (1) rotates in the rotational direction.

[0075] The front cover (11) covers the front inner cover (12).

[0076] The front cover (11) can be combined with the front inner cover (12).

[0077] The front inner cover (12) supports the speaker unit (30) and covers the internal space of the housing (50) in which the speaker unit (30) and the driving unit (40) are accommodated.

[0078] The front inner cover (12) can be combined with the front cover (11) positioned in the front direction and can be combined with the housing (50) positioned in the rear direction. The front direction indicates the direction in which sound output from the speaker unit (30) exits to the outside of the speaker device (1) of the present invention, and the rear direction indicates the opposite direction to the front direction.

[0079] The edge of the front inner cover (12) can be in contact with or joined to the edge of the front cover (11) and can be in contact with or joined to the edge of the housing (50).

[0080] Specifically, the front cover (11) and the front inner cover (12) can be combined by inserting (fitting) the edge of the front cover (11) into the edge of the front inner cover (12). At this time, a protrusion (not labeled) protruding toward the front inner cover (12) may be formed on the edge of the front cover (11), and a groove (not labeled) into which the protrusion is inserted may be formed on the edge of the front inner cover (12).

[0081] Additionally, the front inner cover (12) may be placed (or coupled) to one side (511) of the housing (50) described later. For example, the front inner cover (12) and the housing (50) may be coupled by inserting (fitting) the edge of the front inner cover (12) into one side (511) of the housing (50).

[0082] Referring to FIG. 5, the front inner cover (12) is formed in a plate shape with a preset thickness and is formed in a circular shape.

[0083] The front inner cover (12) can be formed in a shape corresponding to the front cover (11).

[0084] The front inner cover (12) can be formed from various materials such as metal or plastic.

[0085] The front inner cover (12) includes a plurality of holes. That is, a plurality of holes are formed in the front inner cover (12).

[0086] Multiple holes are holes that penetrate the front inner cover (12).

[0087] Multiple holes include a main speaker hole (12h1), a tweeter speaker hole (12h2), and a duct hole (12h3).

[0088] The main speaker hole (12h1) is where the main speaker (31) is placed.

[0089] The sound coming from the main speaker (31) exits to the outside of the speaker device (1) of the present invention through the main speaker hole (12h1).

[0090] The main speaker hole (12h1) can be formed in a circular shape as shown in the drawing.

[0091] In FIG. 5, one main speaker hole (12h1) is formed in the front inner cover (12). Two or more main speaker holes (12h1) may be formed according to examples of embodiments of the present invention.

[0092] If the front cover (11) is not present, the user can see the front of the main speaker (31) (e.g., dust cap and cone) through the main speaker hole (12h1).

[0093] The inner surface of the front inner cover (12) forming (or surrounding) the main speaker hole (12h1) can come into contact (or be joined) with the front edge of the main speaker (31).

[0094] The method of joining the inner surface of the front inner cover (12) forming the main speaker hole (12h1) and the front edge of the main speaker (31) is based on known technology, and a detailed description is omitted.

[0095] A tweeter speaker (32) is placed in the tweeter speaker hole (12h2).

[0096] The sound coming from the tweeter speaker (32) exits to the outside of the speaker device (1) of the present invention through the tweeter speaker hole (12h2).

[0097] The tweeter speaker hole (12h2) can be formed in a circular shape as shown in the drawing.

[0098] In FIG. 5, two tweeter speaker holes (12h2) are formed in the front inner cover (12). Three or more tweeter speaker holes (12h2) may be formed according to examples of embodiments of the present invention.

[0099] If the front cover (11) is not present, the user can see the front of the tweeter speaker (32) (e.g., dust cap and cone) through the tweeter speaker hole (12h2).

[0100] The inner surface of the front inner cover (12) forming (or surrounding) the tweeter speaker hole (12h2) can come into contact (or be joined) with the front edge of the tweeter speaker (32).

[0101] The method of joining the inner surface of the front inner cover (12) forming the tweeter speaker hole (12h2) and the front edge of the tweeter speaker (32) is based on known technology, and a specific description is omitted.

[0102] Although not illustrated in the drawing, the speaker device (1) of the present invention may further include a woofer speaker.

[0103] Accordingly, a hole (woofer speaker hole) in which a woofer speaker is placed may be further formed in the front inner cover (12). That is, a plurality of holes may include a woofer speaker hole.

[0104] The duct hole (12h3) is where the duct member (33) is placed.

[0105] The duct hole (12h3) communicates with the through hole of the duct member (33).

[0106] Air can move into and out of the speaker device (1) of the present invention through the duct hole (12h3) and the through hole of the duct member (33).

[0107] The duct hole (12h3) can be formed in a circular shape as shown in the drawing.

[0108] The duct hole (12h3) can be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of one side of the duct member (33).

[0109] In FIG. 5, two duct holes (12h3) are formed in the front inner cover (12). Three or more duct holes (12h3) may be formed according to examples of embodiments of the present invention.

[0110] The inner surface of the front inner cover (12) forming (or surrounding) the duct opening (12h3) can come into contact (or be joined) with the edge of one side of the duct member (33).

[0111] The method of joining the inner surface of the front inner cover (12) forming the duct hole (12h3) and the edge of one side of the duct member (33) is based on known technology, and a detailed description is omitted.

[0112] The description of the sensor case (13) will be explained below.

[0113] The speaker part (30) represents a speaker provided in the speaker device (1) of the present invention. The speaker represents a conventional device that converts an electroacoustic signal into a sound wave.

[0114] The speaker section (30) includes a main speaker (31) and a tweeter speaker (32).

[0115] The main speaker (31) may be, for example, a commonly used mid-range speaker or a full-range speaker.

[0116] The tweeter speaker (32) can be, for example, a commonly used tweeter speaker.

[0117] The main speaker (31) is placed in the main speaker hole (12h1), and the tweeter speaker (32) is placed in the tweeter speaker hole (12h2).

[0118] According to an example of an embodiment of the present invention, the speaker unit (30) may further include a woofer speaker. The woofer speaker may be placed in a woofer speaker hole that may be formed in the front inner cover (12).

[0119] The main speaker (31), tweeter speaker (32), and woofer speaker are commonly used speakers, so a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0120] The speaker unit (30) is placed in the internal space (5111) of the housing (50) which is surrounded by the front inner cover (12) and the housing (50).

[0121] The speaker part (30) includes a duct member (33).

[0122] Referring to FIG. 7, the duct member (33) is a passage for air movement.

[0123] Air can move into and out of the speaker device (1) of the present invention through the duct member (33).

[0124] The duct member (33) serves to increase the sound pressure and amount of low-frequency sound.

[0125] The duct member (33) may be formed with a preset length and may be formed in a cylindrical shape with a through hole formed in the longitudinal direction. That is, the duct member (33) has a through hole that penetrates one side and the other side in the longitudinal direction. The one side and the other side point to opposite sides in the longitudinal direction of the duct member (33).

[0126] As shown in FIG. 7(a), the duct member (33) may have a duct body (332) and a side wing (331).

[0127] The duct body (332) can be formed in a cylindrical shape with a preset length in one direction.

[0128] One wing (331) is formed on one side of the duct body (332). Specifically, the one wing (331) is connected to one side of the duct body (332) and can be formed so that the diameter of the through hole gradually increases.

[0129] Meanwhile, as shown in FIG. 7(b), the duct member (33) may have a duct body (332a), one wing (331a), and the other wing (331b).

[0130] The duct body (332a) is formed in a cylindrical shape with a preset length and can be formed in a curved shape.

[0131] One wing (331a) is formed on one side of the duct body (332a). Specifically, the one wing (331a) is connected to one side of the duct body (332a) and can be formed so that the diameter of the through hole gradually increases.

[0132] Additionally, the other wing (331b) is formed on the other side of the duct body (332a). Specifically, the other wing (331b) is connected to the other side of the duct body (332a) and can be formed so that the diameter of the through hole gradually increases.

[0133] One wing (331, 331a) of the duct member (33) is connected to the aforementioned duct hole (12h3), and the through hole of the duct member (33) communicates with the duct hole (12h3).

[0134] And, the other side of the duct member (33) is placed in the internal space (5111) of the housing (50).

[0135] The duct member (33) may not be provided in the speaker device (1) according to an example of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0136] Generally, an enclosure without a duct member (33) is called a closed speaker enclosure or acoustic suspension. The enclosure generally refers to a speaker box, and in the present invention, it refers to a housing (50).

[0137] In the case where the housing (50) of the speaker device (1) of the present invention is sealed, the duct member (33) may not be provided in the speaker device (1).

[0138] Referring to FIGS. 3, 4 and 8, the housing (50) is connected to the front part (10) and the rear part (60) and accommodates the speaker part (30) and the driving part (40).

[0139] Figure 8 (a) is a front perspective view of the housing (50), and (b) is a rear perspective view of the housing (50).

[0140] The housing (50) is formed with a preset length and is formed in a cylindrical shape with an internal space (5111, 5121) formed in the longitudinal direction.

[0141] The housing (50) (cylindrical shape) can be divided into one side (511), the other side (512), and the middle side (513).

[0142] One side (511) and the other side (512) of the housing (50) point opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction of the housing (50), and the middle side (513) of the housing (50) is positioned between the one side (511) and the other side (512) of the housing (50) and connects the one side (511) and the other side (512).

[0143] One side (511) of the housing (50) is positioned to face the front direction of the speaker device (1) of the present invention, and the other side (512) of the housing (50) is positioned to face the rear direction of the speaker device (1).

[0144] One side (511) and the other side (512) of the housing (50) are open.

[0145] The cross-sectional diameter of one side (511) of the housing (50) is formed to be larger than the cross-sectional diameter of the other side (512) of the housing (50). The cross-sectional diameter refers to the diameter in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the housing (50).

[0146] Accordingly, in the housing (50), the cross-sectional diameter of the opening on one side (511) is formed to be larger than the cross-sectional diameter of the opening on the other side (512).

[0147] And, the cross-sectional diameter of the middle side (513) of the housing (50) becomes progressively smaller as it goes from one side (511) of the housing (50) to the other side (512).

[0148] Accordingly, in the housing (50), the cross-sectional diameter of the internal space of the intermediate side (513) becomes progressively smaller as it goes from one side (511) of the housing (50) to the other side (512).

[0149] When the speaker device (1) of the present invention is placed on a floor (S) (e.g., a tabletop), the outer surface of the middle side (513) comes into contact with the floor (S).

[0150] In the housing (50), the opening on one side (511), the opening on the other side (512), and the internal space (5111, 5121) of the intermediate side (513) are connected to each other. That is, the opening on one side (511) and the internal space (5111) of the intermediate side (513) are one space connected to each other, and the opening on the other side (512) and the internal space (5121) of the intermediate side (513) are also one space connected to each other.

[0151] A fastening member receiving portion (5112) is formed on the inner surface of the intermediate side (513).

[0152] The fastening member receiving portion (5112) is fixed by inserting a part of the fastening member (not shown). The fastening member may be, for example, a screw.

[0153] The fastening member receiving portion (5112) is formed protruding from the inner surface of the intermediate side (513) toward the internal space (5111) of the intermediate side (513) and includes a groove into which a part of the fastening member (e.g., one end of a screw) is inserted. The groove into which a part of the fastening member is inserted is formed on one surface of the fastening member receiving portion (5112) and faces the front direction of the speaker device (1) of the present invention.

[0154] A receiving portion (5112) for a fastening member is formed at a location adjacent to one side (511) of the housing (50) and is formed on the inner surface of the intermediate side (513) that forms (or surrounds) the internal space (5111) of one side of the housing (50) (specifically, the intermediate side (513)) described later.

[0155] Multiple fastening member receiving portions (5112) are formed. Adjacent fastening member receiving portions (5112) are spaced apart by a preset distance.

[0156] Additionally, a sensor hole (511h) may be formed in the intermediate side (513).

[0157] The sensor hole (511h) is a hole that penetrates the intermediate side (513).

[0158] Sound generated from outside the speaker device (1) of the present invention (e.g., sound produced by a user) is transmitted to the sensor unit (20) described later through the sensor hole (511h). The sensor unit (20) is placed in the internal space (5111) of the housing (50) (intermediate side (513)).

[0159] To elaborate, the sensor hole (511h) is formed so that the sensor part (20) can detect external sounds well.

[0160] The number of sensor holes (511h) can be formed depending on the number of sensor parts (20). In FIG. 8, two sensor holes (511h) are formed in the housing (50) (intermediate side (513)).

[0161] According to an example of an embodiment of the present invention, the sensor hole (511h) may be formed at a location adjacent to one side (511) of the housing (50), or between adjacent fastening member receiving portions (5112).

[0162] An internal partition (514) is formed inside the housing (50).

[0163] The internal partition (514) is formed in a plate shape with a preset thickness.

[0164] The internal partition (514) is formed (or arranged) in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the housing (50).

[0165] The internal partition (514) is formed in the internal space (5111, 5121) of the intermediate side (513) and partitions the internal space (5111, 5121) of the intermediate side (513).

[0166] Due to the internal partition (514), the internal space (5111, 5121) of the housing (50) (specifically the intermediate side (513)) is divided into one internal space (5111) and the other internal space (5121).

[0167] The opening of one side (511) and the internal space (5111) of the one side are connected to each other to form a single space, and the opening of the other side (512) and the internal space (5121) of the other side are connected to each other to form a single space.

[0168] A motor shaft hole (514h1) and a fastening member hole (514h2) are formed in the inner bulkhead (514).

[0169] The motor shaft hole (514h1) and the fastening member hole (514h2) are holes that penetrate the internal bulkhead (514).

[0170] The motor shaft hole (514h1) is formed on the center side of the inner bulkhead (514). The center side refers to the center or an adjacent location.

[0171] The rotation axis (411) of the motor (41) (see FIG. 10) is placed in the motor shaft hole (514h1).

[0172] The fastening member hole (514h2) is formed at a preset distance from the motor shaft hole (514h1).

[0173] The fastening member holes (514h2) may be formed in multiple numbers. The multiple fastening member holes (514h2) are spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in the circumferential direction of the motor shaft hole (514h1).

[0174] A fastening member (not shown) is placed in the fastening member hole (514h2). The fastening member may be, for example, a screw.

[0175] The fastening member secures the motor (41) to the inner partition (514). Specifically, the fastening member passes through the fastening member hole (514h2) and is then inserted into the hole (or groove) formed in the motor (41). In this way, the motor (41) is secured to the inner partition (514).

[0176] Meanwhile, as illustrated in FIG. 9, the outer surface of the housing (50) may be formed such that a plurality of flat surfaces are arranged continuously along the circumferential direction of the housing (50). The outer surface of the housing (50) represents the outer surface of one side (511a), the middle side (513a), and the other side (512a) of the housing (50).

[0177] Among the multiple flat surfaces, the boundary between adjacent flat surfaces is represented by a line (e.g., a straight line) connecting one side (511a) and the other side (512a) of the housing (50).

[0178] The number of multiple flat surfaces is not limited to a specific number and can be determined to various numbers according to examples of embodiments of the present invention.

[0179] As a result of forming a plurality of flat surfaces on the outer surface of the housing (50), shaking is reduced after the speaker device (1) of the present invention is rotated.

[0180] The driving unit (40) rotates the speaker device (1) of the present invention. That is, the speaker device (1) of the present invention is rotated clockwise or counterclockwise by the driving unit (40).

[0181] Referring to FIG. 10, the driving unit (40) includes a motor (41) and a mass member (42).

[0182] The motor (41) is a machine that obtains rotational force from electrical energy and represents a conventional power device equipped with a rotor and a stator. Accordingly, a detailed description of the motor (41) is omitted.

[0183] As described above, the motor (41) is fixed to the inner partition (514) of the housing (50).

[0184] The motor (41) is placed in the internal space (5111) on one side of the housing (50).

[0185] The motor (41) rotates the mass member (42).

[0186] The motor (41) is driven by electricity. The speaker device (1) of the present invention is equipped with a wire (not shown) connected to the motor (41), and said wire can be connected to external power.

[0187] Alternatively, the speaker device (1) of the present invention may be equipped with a battery (not shown), and the battery and the motor (41) may be electrically connected so that power from the battery can be supplied to the motor (41). In order for the speaker device (1) of the present invention to rotate smoothly, it would be preferable to have the battery built inside the speaker device (1). This is because if the wires are exposed to the outside of the speaker device (1), the wires may hinder the rotation of the speaker device (1).

[0188] The mass member (42) can be formed into a plate shape with a preset thickness.

[0189] The mass member (42) can be divided into one side (421) and the other side (422).

[0190] One side (421) and the other side (422) of the mass member (42) are connected to each other and can be formed integrally.

[0191] The shape of one side (421) and the shape of the other side (422) of the mass member (42) may be different from each other.

[0192] The mass of one side (421) and the mass of the other side (422) of the mass member (42) may be different from each other. Specifically, the mass of one side (421) of the mass member (42) may be formed to be smaller than the mass of the other side (422). That is, the weight of the other side (422) of the mass member (42) may be formed to be heavier than the weight of the one side (421).

[0193] The size of one side (421) of the mass member (42) can be formed smaller than the size of the other side (422). That is, the size of the other side (422) of the mass member (42) can be formed larger than the size of the one side (421).

[0194] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 10, the mass member (42) may be formed such that its size (or area) increases from one side (421) of the mass member (42) to the other side (422). Also, the edge of the other side (422) of the mass member (42) facing the inner surface of the middle side (513) of the housing (50) may be formed in a circular shape that corresponds to the inner surface of the middle side (513).

[0195] The edge of the other side (422) of the mass member (42) and the inner surface of the middle side (513) of the housing (50) are separated by a preset distance. Accordingly, the mass member (42) can rotate without obstruction.

[0196] Additionally, the thickness of one side (421) of the mass member (42) can be formed to be smaller than the thickness of the other side (422).

[0197] The mass member (42) is placed in the other internal space (5121) of the housing (50) (see FIG. 4).

[0198] In other words, with the internal partition (514) of the housing (50) in between, the motor (41) (specifically the motor body (412)) is placed in one side internal space (5111) of the housing (50), and the mass member (42) is placed in the other side internal space (5121) of the housing (50).

[0199] The rotation shaft (411) of the motor (41) is positioned in the motor shaft hole (514h1) of the internal partition (514), and one end of the rotation shaft (411) is inserted into the rotation shaft hole (42h) of the mass member (42) to be described later. By connecting the rotation shaft (411) of the motor (41) to the mass member (42), the motor (41) and the mass member (42) are connected to each other.

[0200] The mass member (42) is connected to the motor (41). Specifically, the mass member (42) is connected to the rotation axis (411) of the motor (41).

[0201] A rotational shaft hole (42h) is formed on one side (421) of the mass member (42).

[0202] One end of the rotating shaft (411) of the motor (41) is inserted into and fixed in the rotating shaft hole (42h).

[0203] The rotational shaft hole (42h) may be a hole penetrating one side (421) of the mass member (42), or a groove formed on one surface of one side (421) of the mass member (42).

[0204] The rotation axis (411) of the motor (41) is connected to one side (421) of the mass member (42), and since the weight of the other side (422) is heavier than the weight of the one side (421) of the mass member (42), when the mass member (42) is positioned vertically, the center of gravity of the mass member (42) is located on the other side (422) of the mass member (42).

[0205] As the center of gravity of the mass member (42) is located on the other side (422), if no external force acts on the mass member (42), one side (421) of the mass member (42) faces upward and the other side (422) of the mass member (42) faces downward.

[0206] When the rotation axis (411) of the motor (41) rotates clockwise or counterclockwise, the mass member (42) also rotates clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0207] When the motor (41) rotates the mass member (42), the center of gravity of the mass member (42) moves due to the rotation.

[0208] Referring to FIG. 3, the rear portion (60) is positioned at the rear of the speaker device (1) of the present invention.

[0209] The rear section (60) includes a rear inner cover (61) and a rear cover (62).

[0210] The rear inner cover (61) covers the mass member (42).

[0211] The rear inner cover (61) is formed in a plate shape with a preset thickness and is formed in a circular shape.

[0212] The rear inner cover (61) is placed in the other side internal space (5121) of the housing (50). Specifically, the rear inner cover (61) is placed between the internal partition (514) of the housing (50) and the other side (512) of the housing (50).

[0213] The rear inner cover (61) and the inner partition (514) of the housing (50) are spaced apart by a predetermined distance along the longitudinal direction of the housing (50). Accordingly, a space is formed between the rear inner cover (61) and the inner partition (514) of the housing (50). A mass member (42) is rotatably placed in the space. The space is part of the other inner space (5121) of the housing (50).

[0214] The edge of the rear inner cover (61) is joined to the inner surface of the intermediate side (513) that forms (or surrounds) the other side inner space (5121) of the housing (50).

[0215] For example, the rear inner cover (61) and the housing (50) can be joined by inserting (fitting) the edge of the rear inner cover (61) into the other inner space (5121) of the housing (50).

[0216] The rear cover (62) covers the rear inner cover (61) and is combined with the housing (50).

[0217] The rear cover (62) is formed in a plate shape with a preset thickness and is formed in a circular shape.

[0218] The rear cover (62) is placed on the other side (512) of the housing (50).

[0219] The edge of the rear cover (62) can be combined with the edge of the other side (512) of the housing (50).

[0220] The rear cover (62) and the rear inner cover (61) are spaced apart by a predetermined distance along the longitudinal direction of the housing (50). Accordingly, a space is formed between the rear cover (62) and the rear inner cover (61). A substrate (621) is placed in the space. The space is part of the other inner space (5121) of the housing (50).

[0221] Looking at FIG. 3, the substrate (621) is positioned on one side of the rear cover (62). The side of the rear cover (62) is a side facing one side of the rear inner cover (61).

[0222] One side of the rear cover (62) may have a step, hole, or groove formed therein so that a printed circuit board (PCB) (621) or electrical and electronic components may be placed thereon.

[0223] According to an example of an embodiment of the present invention, the substrate (621) may be disposed on one side of the rear inner cover (61). The one side of the rear inner cover (61) is a side facing one side of the rear cover (62).

[0224] If the substrate (621) can be isolated and protected from the mass member (42), the substrate (621) can be placed on one side of the rear cover (62) or the rear inner cover (61).

[0225] The circuit board (621) has electrical and electronic components mounted thereon that are necessary for the speaker device (1) of the present invention to output sound.

[0226] The substrate (621) can be made of one board or two or more boards. That is, the substrate (621) can be made of one or more boards as needed.

[0227] The substrate (621) and the speaker unit (30), the substrate (621) and the motor (41), and the substrate (621) and the sensor unit (20) are electrically connected. In the drawing, the wires connecting the substrate (621) and the speaker unit (30), the substrate (621) and the motor (41), and the substrate (621) and the sensor unit (20) are omitted.

[0228] According to an example of an embodiment of the present invention, the rear cover (62) may include a friction member (63) on the other side.

[0229] The speaker device (1) of the present invention may include a friction member (63) on the other side.

[0230] The other friction member (63) is formed of a rubber material. Specifically, the other friction member (63) may be formed of a silicone material.

[0231] The other friction member (63) is formed in a ring shape.

[0232] The other side friction member (63) may be positioned (or coupled) to the other side (512) of the housing (50) or the rear cover (62). Specifically, the other side friction member (63) may be positioned (or coupled) along the edge of the other side (512) of the housing (50) or along the edge of the rear cover (62).

[0233] According to an example of an embodiment of the present invention, an inner groove (not shown) is formed on the inner surface of the other side friction member (63), and the edge of the other side (512) of the housing (50) or the edge of the rear cover (62) is fitted into the inner groove, so that the other side friction member (63) is coupled to the other side (512) of the housing (50) or the rear cover (62).

[0234] When the other side friction member (63) is coupled to the other side (512) of the housing (50) or the rear cover (62), the other side friction member (63) wraps around the edge of the other side (512) of the housing (50) or the edge of the rear cover (62) along the circumferential direction of the other side (512) of the housing (50) or the rear cover (62).

[0235] The inner groove is formed by being sunk to a predetermined depth from one side of the other friction member (63) along the longitudinal direction (or circumferential direction) of the other friction member (63).

[0236] The opening of the inner groove is positioned to face the edge of the other side (512) of the housing (50) or to face the edge of the rear cover (62).

[0237] According to an example of another embodiment of the present invention, a housing other side groove (not shown) is formed along the circumferential direction of the other side (512) of the housing (50) on the side of the edge of the housing (50), or a rear cover groove (not shown) is formed along the circumferential direction of the rear cover (62) on the side of the edge of the rear cover (62). Additionally, a friction member protrusion (not shown) is formed on one side of the other side friction member (63).

[0238] By inserting the friction member protrusion into the groove on the other side of the housing, the other friction member (63) and the other side (512) of the housing (50) are joined together, or by inserting the friction member protrusion into the groove on the rear cover, the other friction member (63) and the rear cover (62) are joined together.

[0239] When the friction member protrusion is inserted into the housing other side groove or the rear cover groove, a part of the other side friction member (63) (the remainder excluding the friction member protrusion) protrudes outside the edge of the housing other side (512) or the edge of the rear cover (62).

[0240] The other friction member (63) contacts the floor (S) on which the speaker device (1) is placed (see (b) of FIG. 11).

[0241] When the speaker device (1) rotates, the other friction member (63) comes into contact with the floor (S), and as the other friction member (63) is pressed against the floor (S) by the load of the speaker device (1), a frictional force is generated between the other friction member (63) and the floor (S). Due to the frictional force, rotation (shaking) is minimized after the speaker device (1) rotates in the rotational direction.

[0242] The speaker device (1) of the present invention includes a sensor unit (20) and a sensor case (13).

[0243] The sensor unit (20) may be a microphone, and a plurality of them are provided.

[0244] The sensor unit (20) is a device that converts sound into an electrical signal and is a type of sensor and transducer.

[0245] The sensor unit (20) detects the sound made by the user.

[0246] The detection of the user's sound by the sensor unit (20) can be performed by beamforming microphone technology.

[0247] Since beamforming microphone technology is a commonly used and well-known technology, a detailed explanation will be omitted and explained briefly.

[0248] Beamforming microphone technology refers to a technology that uses two or more microphones to reduce external noise (Noise Cancellation), recognize and amplify sounds produced by a user (e.g., voice), change the sound direction toward the user (change directionality), or make the sound clearer.

[0249] By using the interference of two or more sensor units (microphones) (20), the directivity can be changed to a specific direction.

[0250] Figure 16 shows a conceptual diagram of a preprocessing technique for multi-speaker speech recognition.

[0251] Since preprocessing techniques for multi-speaker speech recognition are commonly known technologies, specific details will be omitted and explained briefly.

[0252] The voice recognition preprocessing technology is a technology that removes noise from the signal of the sensor unit (microphone) (20) and obtains the sound (e.g., voice) produced by the user.

[0253] Preprocessing technology for multi-speaker speech recognition largely consists of a sound source separation stage and a sound source detection stage.

[0254] The sound source separation step separates the signal input to two or more sensor units (microphones) (20) into directional streams. To achieve this, multi-beamforming sound source separation technology is applied.

[0255] In the audio source detection stage, the stream selector determines the speech segments from the separated streams that need to be passed to the recognizer.

[0256] Referring to FIG. 16, assuming an environment where a target speaker and a competitor speaker simultaneously emit sound around a device composed of two or more sensor units (microphones) (20), the acquired microphone signal generates streams of sound sources by direction using a multi-beamformer. A stream selector detects the one corresponding to the speaker's voice among the separated streams and transmits it to a speech recognizer. The recognizer generates a recognition result for the target speaker or a recognition result for each speaker.

[0257] Figure 17 shows a conceptual diagram of a multi-beamformer-based sound source separation technology.

[0258] Since multi-beamformer-based sound source separation technology is a commonly used and known technology, a detailed explanation will be omitted and explained briefly.

[0259] The multi-beamformer, which is the sound source separation stage of this technology, consists of a multi-direction tracker (Multi-SSL; Multiple Sound Source Localization), a multi-look beamformer, and a post-filter.

[0260] A multi-direction tracker tracks the direction from which a sound (e.g., voice) produced by a user is uttered and generates voice detection information for each direction.

[0261] Specifically, the multi-direction tracker detects the direction of the sound source from audio signals input to two or more sensor units (microphones) (20) and transmits them to the multi-beamformer.

[0262] The multi-beamformer receives directional voice detection information from the multi-direction tracker and generates directional beamforming outputs. In other words, the multi-beamformer is a sub-module that provides the function of generating sound sources separated by direction.

[0263] Specifically, the multi-beamformer receives multi-channel audio signals from two or more sensor units (20) and receives direction-specific voice activation detection information from a multi-direction tracker to produce direction-specific beamforming outputs.

[0264] The post-processor further removes residual components of competing voice remaining in the beamforming output.

[0265] Specifically, the post-processor receives the directional beamforming output produced by multiple beamformers and outputs a directional audio stream with residual speech removed.

[0266] The sensor case (13) accommodates the sensor unit (20). That is, the sensor unit (20) is placed in the sensor case (13).

[0267] FIG. 6 (a) is a perspective view of the sensor case (13), and FIG. 6 (b) shows the sensor case (13) viewed from the left or right.

[0268] The sensor case (13) is formed in a ring shape with a through hole (131h) formed in the middle. A sensor receiving portion (132) is formed in the body (131) of the sensor case (13) formed in the ring shape. A sensor portion (20) is disposed in the sensor receiving portion (132).

[0269] In other words, the sensor case (13) has a ring-shaped body (131) with a through hole (131h) formed in the middle. The body (131) of the sensor case (13) also represents the sensor case (13).

[0270] The body (131) of the sensor case (13) or the sensor case (13) can be divided into one side (1311), the other side (1312), and the middle side (1313).

[0271] One side (1311) and the other side (1312) of the sensor case (13) point to opposite sides, and the middle side (1313) of the sensor case (13) is positioned between the one side (1311) and the other side (1312) of the sensor case (13) and connects the one side (1311) and the other side (1312). The middle side (1313) of the sensor case (13) is divided into an outer surface facing the outside of the sensor case (13) and an inner surface facing the middle through hole (131h).

[0272] One side (1311) of the sensor case (13) is positioned to face the front direction of the speaker device (1) of the present invention, and the other side (1312) of the sensor case (13) is positioned to face the rear direction of the speaker device (1).

[0273] And, one side (1311) of the sensor case (13) is a surface facing the front direction of the speaker device (1) of the present invention, and the other side (1312) of the sensor case (13) is a surface facing the rear direction of the speaker device (1).

[0274] The through hole (131h) of the sensor case (13) is a hole that penetrates one side (1311) and the other side (1312) of the sensor case (13).

[0275] The outermost diameter of one side (1311) of the sensor case (13) is formed to be larger than the outermost diameter of the other side (1312) of the sensor case (13). Accordingly, the outer surface of the middle side (1313) of the sensor case (13) forms an inclined surface (see FIG. 6 (b)). The outer surface of the middle side (1313) represents the outer surface of the middle side (1313). The inclined surface represents a surface formed to slope downward from one side (1311) of the sensor case (13) to the other side (1312).

[0276] When viewed from the front, one side (1311) of the sensor case (13) forms a ring-shaped circle. The outermost diameter of the one side (1311) of the sensor case (13) represents the length of a straight line passing through the center of the circle and connecting the outer edge of the one side (1311).

[0277] And, when viewed from the rear, the other side (1312) of the sensor case (13) forms a ring-shaped circle. The outermost diameter of the other side (1312) of the sensor case (13) represents the length of a straight line passing through the center of the circle and connecting the outer edge of the other side (1312).

[0278] The outermost diameter of the middle side (1313) of the sensor case (13) becomes progressively smaller as it goes from one side (1311) of the sensor case (13) to the other side (1312).

[0279] According to an example of an embodiment of the present invention, the cross-sectional diameter of the through hole (131h) of the sensor case (13) may become progressively smaller or remain constant as it goes from one side (1311) to the other side (1312) of the sensor case (13).

[0280] The sensor case (13) includes a fastening hole (133) and a sensor receiving portion (132).

[0281] The fastening hole (133) is a hole that penetrates one side (1311) of the sensor case (13) and is formed toward the outer side of the middle side (1313) of the sensor case (13). Accordingly, a groove that is part of the fastening hole (133) can be formed on the outer side of the middle side (1313).

[0282] The fastening hole (133) is fixed by inserting a fastening member (not shown). The fastening member may be, for example, a screw.

[0283] When the sensor case (13) is connected to the housing (50), the connection hole (133) is connected to the connection member receiving portion (5112) formed in the housing (50).

[0284] The fastening member passes through the fastening hole (133) of the sensor case (13) and is then inserted into the fastening member receiving portion (5112) of the housing (50) to be fixed. Accordingly, the sensor case (13) is coupled with the housing (50).

[0285] Multiple fastening holes (133) are formed along the circumferential direction of one side (1311) of the sensor case (13). Adjacent fastening holes (133) are spaced apart by a preset distance.

[0286] The sensor receiving portion (132) is a hole that penetrates the middle side (1313) of the sensor case (13).

[0287] Alternatively, according to an example of an embodiment of the present invention, the sensor receiving portion (132) may be formed in a groove shape on the middle side (1313) of the sensor case (13). The sensor receiving portion (132) may also be formed in a groove shape if a wire connected to the sensor portion (20) can be arranged therein.

[0288] The sensor receiving portion (132) accommodates the sensor portion (20). That is, the sensor portion (20) is inserted and placed in the sensor receiving portion (132).

[0289] When the sensor case (13) is connected to the housing (50), the sensor receiving portion (132) is connected (or communicates) with the sensor hole (511h) formed in the housing (50).

[0290] When the sensor part (20) is placed in the sensor receiving part (132) of the sensor case (13), one side of the sensor part (20) is exposed to the outside of the speaker device (1) (specifically the housing (50)) through the sensor hole (511h) of the housing (50).

[0291] Multiple sensor receiving portions (132) are formed along the circumferential direction of one side (1311) of the sensor case (13). Adjacent sensor receiving portions (132) are spaced apart by a preset distance.

[0292] The number of sensor receiving portions (132) can be formed depending on the number of sensor portions (20). In FIG. 6, two sensor receiving portions (132) are formed in the sensor case (13) (intermediate side (1313)).

[0293] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the sensor receiving portion (132) is placed in an internal space (5111) on one side of the housing (50).

[0294] When the sensor case (13) is inserted (or coupled) into the housing (50), the sensor case (13) is positioned between one side (511) of the housing (50) and the internal partition (514).

[0295] A front cover (11), a front inner cover (12), and a sensor case (13) are arranged sequentially from one side (511) of the housing (50) toward the inner partition (514) of the housing (50). Then, a speaker part (30) is arranged in the through hole (131h) of the sensor case (13).

[0296] When the sensor case (13) is coupled to the housing (50), the outer surface of the middle side (1313) of the sensor case (13) comes into contact with the inner surface of the housing (50) that forms (or surrounds) an internal space (5111) on one side of the housing (50) (specifically, the middle side (513)). Accordingly, the sensor case (13) is stably coupled to the housing (50).

[0297] Meanwhile, the speaker device (1) of the present invention includes a control unit (70) (see FIG. 18).

[0298] The control unit (70) may be mounted (or placed) on the substrate (621) according to an example of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0299] The sensor unit (20) and the substrate (621) and / or the control unit (70) are electrically connected.

[0300] The sound of the user detected by the sensor unit (20) is converted into an electrical signal (sound data) and then transmitted to the substrate (621) and / or the control unit (70).

[0301] The control unit (70) analyzes sound data to detect the user's location and drives the motor (41).

[0302] The circuit board (621) and / or the control unit (70) is equipped with electrical and electronic components and programs necessary for receiving, storing, and analyzing sound data transmitted from the sensor unit (20).

[0303] The speaker device (1) of the present invention is a device that uses two or more sensor parts (microphones) (20) (using beamforming microphone technology) to recognize the location of a user and rotates a mass member (42) in the recognized direction to change the direction of the speaker device (1) (specifically, the speaker part (30)).

[0304] Figure 11 (a) shows the speaker device (1) of the present invention rotating and moving, and Figure 11 (b) shows the rotation of the mass member (42) and the speaker device (1).

[0305] Referring to FIG. 11, when a user is positioned at a preset angle from the front direction of the speaker device (1) of the present invention, the control unit (70) rotates the motor (41) of the driving unit (40) so that the other side (422) of the mass member (42) rotates toward the direction in which the user is located. The front direction of the speaker device (1) represents, for example, the direction in which the center point of the front of the main speaker (31) (for example, the center point of the cone) faces forward.

[0306] When the other side (422) of the mass member (42) rotates in one rotational direction (e.g., counterclockwise), the center of gravity of the mass member (42) also rotates in one rotational direction. Accordingly, the center of gravity of the mass member (42) rises to a certain height from the lowest point in the vertical direction.

[0307] When the other side (422) of the mass member (42) completes rotation in one rotational direction, the rotation axis (411) of the motor (41) stops rotating, and the center of gravity of the mass member (42) remains in a state raised to a certain height. Accordingly, the center of gravity of the mass member (42) receives gravity downward.

[0308] Due to the action of gravity, the other side (422) of the mass member (42) rotates in the opposite direction (e.g., clockwise) of the first rotation direction, and the center of gravity of the mass member (42) returns to its original position, the lowest point. At this time, the speaker device (1) of the present invention (specifically the housing (50)) also rotates together with the mass member (42) in the opposite direction of the first rotation direction.

[0309] Accordingly, the front of the speaker device (1) of the present invention faces the user.

[0310] Since the cross-sectional diameter of one side (511) of the housing (50) is larger than the cross-sectional diameter of the other side (512) of the housing (50), the one side (511) of the housing (50) moves more in the opposite direction of the one rotation direction than the other side (512) of the housing (50), so that the front of the speaker device (1) of the present invention faces the user.

[0311] Using the formula L=r*Θ, it can be seen that one side (511) of the housing (50) moves more in the opposite direction of the rotation direction than the other side (512) of the housing (50). In the formula, r is the cross-sectional radius of one side (511) of the housing (50) or the cross-sectional radius of the other side (512), Θ is the rotation angle of one side (511) or the other side (512) of the housing (50), and L is the length of the circumference of one side (511) or the other side (512) of the housing (50) corresponding to the rotation angle.

[0312] The driving of the motor (41) is performed by the control of the control unit (70). That is, the rotation and stopping of the rotation axis (411) of the motor (41) is performed by the control of the control unit (70).

[0313] As described above, during the process in which the center of gravity of the mass member (42) returns to its original position, the lowest point, the mass member (42) and the speaker device (1) (specifically the housing (50)) rotate (shake) in one direction of rotation and in the opposite direction of said one direction of rotation due to inertia.

[0314] One friction member and the other friction member (63) can minimize shaking of the mass member (42) and the speaker device (1) (specifically the housing (50)).

[0315] FIGS. 12 to 15 are graphs showing speaker devices and their vibrations according to examples of embodiments of the present invention.

[0316] In FIGS. 12 to 15, the graph displayed at the top of the Y-axis shows the shaking of the speaker device (1).

[0317] The shaking of the above speaker device (1) indicates that, as described above, during the process in which the center of gravity of the mass member (42) returns to its original position at the lowest point, the mass member (42) and the speaker device (1) (specifically the housing (50)) rotate (shake) in one rotational direction and in the opposite direction of the one rotational direction due to inertia.

[0318] FIG. 12 shows a speaker device (1) according to an example of a first embodiment and the shaking of the speaker device (1).

[0319] A speaker device (1) according to the example of the first embodiment is provided with a friction member on one side and a friction member on the other side (63). The friction member on one side and the friction member on the other side (63) are circular (curved), and the outer surface of the housing (50) is formed as a curved surface.

[0320] Looking at FIG. 12, after the mass member (42) starts rotating, the speaker device (1) (specifically the housing (50)) starts rotating after about 1 second.

[0321] After the front of the speaker device (1) reaches the desired position, the range of shaking of the speaker device (1) is small, but the time it takes for the speaker device (1) to stop is 30 seconds or more.

[0322] The initial power of the motor (41) is 5 kgf.

[0323] FIG. 13 shows a speaker device (1a) and the shaking of the speaker device (1a) according to an example of a second embodiment.

[0324] A speaker device (1a) according to the example of the second embodiment is provided with a friction member on one side. The friction member on one side is circular (curved), and the edge of the other side (512) of the housing (50) is in the shape of a polygonal band. The polygonal band shape indicates that a plurality of flat surfaces are arranged in succession to form a band shape. In addition, the outer surface of the housing (50) excluding the other side (512) of the housing (50) (specifically, the outer surface of the one side (511) and the middle side (513)) is formed as a curved surface.

[0325] Looking at FIG. 13, after the mass member (42) starts rotating, the speaker device (1a) (specifically the housing (50)) starts rotating after about 2.3 seconds.

[0326] After the front of the speaker device (1a) reaches the desired position, the range of shaking of the speaker device (1a) is large, but the time it takes for the speaker device (1a) to stop is about 17 seconds.

[0327] The initial power of the motor (41) is 13 kgf.

[0328] FIG. 14 shows a speaker device (1b) and the shaking of the speaker device (1b) according to an example of a third embodiment.

[0329] In the speaker device (1b) according to the example of the third embodiment, the outer surface of the housing (50) is formed such that a plurality of flat surfaces are arranged continuously along the circumferential direction of the housing (50). For example, there are 16 flat surfaces formed on the outer surface of the housing (50).

[0330] Looking at FIG. 14, after the mass member (42) starts rotating, the speaker device (1b) (specifically the housing (50)) starts rotating after about 3 seconds.

[0331] After the front of the speaker device (1b) reaches the desired position, the range of shaking of the speaker device (1b) is large, but the time it takes for the speaker device (1b) to stop is about 11 seconds. This example of the implementation state stops the fastest.

[0332] The initial power of the motor (41) is 20 kgf.

[0333] FIG. 15 shows a speaker device (1c) and the shaking of the speaker device (1c) according to an example of a fourth embodiment.

[0334] In the speaker device (1c) according to the example of the fourth embodiment, the outer surface of the housing (50) is formed such that a plurality of flat surfaces are arranged continuously along the circumferential direction of the housing (50). For example, there are 25 flat surfaces formed on the outer surface of the housing (50).

[0335] Looking at FIG. 15, after the mass member (42) starts rotating, the speaker device (1c) (specifically the housing (50)) starts rotating after about 2.5 seconds.

[0336] After the front of the speaker device (1c) reaches the desired position, the amplitude of the shaking of the speaker device (1c) is large, and the time it takes for the speaker device (1c) to stop is 30 seconds or more.

[0337] The initial power of the motor (41) is 15 kgf.

[0338] As described above, the speaker device of the present invention detects the user's location by distinguishing surrounding sounds rather than by the loudness of the sound, so even if the sensor unit (20) detects multiple sounds of the same loudness, the user's location can be clearly found.

[0339] In addition, since the speaker device of the present invention rotates in the direction where the user is located by utilizing the shape of the housing (50), it is not necessary to place a separate driving unit on the outside of the speaker device. Accordingly, the speaker device of the present invention has the effects of improved aesthetics, simple manufacturing, and reduced manufacturing costs.

Claims

1. Front section where sound from the speaker section is output; A housing having one side connected to the front part and accommodating the speaker part; A driving unit disposed in the internal space of the above housing; and It includes a rear portion connected to the other side of the above housing, and The above housing is formed in a cylindrical shape, and The cross-sectional diameter of one side of the housing is formed to be larger than the cross-sectional diameter of the other side of the housing, and A speaker device in which the housing rotates by the above-mentioned driving unit and the direction of the above-mentioned speaker unit is changed.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above housing has an intermediate side and an internal partition formed on the intermediate side, and The above intermediate side is positioned between one side and the other side of the housing and connects one side and the other side of the housing, and The above internal partition is formed in the internal space of the intermediate side, dividing the internal space of the intermediate side into one internal space and the other internal space, and A speaker device wherein the internal space on one side communicates with an opening on one side of the housing to form a single space, and the internal space on the other side communicates with an opening on the other side of the housing to form a single space.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above driving unit includes a motor and a mass member that rotates by the driving of the motor, and The motor is disposed in the internal space on one side, and the mass member is disposed in the internal space on the other side, A speaker device in which the rotating shaft of the motor is disposed in the motor shaft hole of the internal partition, and one side of the mass member is connected to the rotating shaft.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above mass member is divided into one side and the other side, and The weight of the other side of the mass member is formed to be heavier than the weight of one side, so that the center of gravity of the mass member is located on the other side of the mass member, and A speaker device in which, when no external force acts on the mass member, one side of the mass member is positioned to face upward and the other side to face downward.

5. In Paragraph 4, When the other side of the mass member rotates in one rotational direction by driving the above motor, the center of gravity of the mass member rises to a certain height from the lowest point in the vertical direction, and A speaker device in which, when the other side of the mass member completes rotation in the aforementioned rotational direction, the motor stops rotating and the center of gravity of the mass member is maintained at a height raised to a certain height.

6. In Paragraph 5, Due to the action of gravity, the other side of the mass member rotates in the opposite direction to the first rotational direction, and the center of gravity of the mass member returns to its original position, the lowest point, and A speaker device in which the above housing rotates in the opposite direction to the one rotational direction together with the mass member.

7. In Paragraph 3, The above rear portion includes a rear inner cover, and The above rear inner cover is disposed in the other inner space of the housing and covers the mass member, a speaker device.

8. In Paragraph 7, The above rear portion includes a rear cover, and The above rear cover is positioned on the other side of the housing and covers the rear inner cover, A speaker device having a friction member disposed on the edge of the rear cover or on the edge of the other side of the housing.

9. In Paragraph 8, A substrate is disposed on one side of the rear inner cover or on one side of the rear cover, and A speaker device in which one side of the rear inner cover and one side of the rear cover are surfaces facing each other.

10. In Paragraph 1, It includes a sensor unit, The above sensor unit is a speaker device that detects the sound of a user using beamforming microphone technology.

11. In Paragraph 10, It includes a sensor case disposed on the front portion and accommodating the sensor portion, The sensor case above is formed in a ring shape, and A speaker device having a sensor receiving portion formed in the body of the sensor case formed in the above ring shape to accommodate the sensor portion.

12. In Paragraph 10, It includes a control unit electrically connected to the sensor unit and the driving unit, and The user's sound detected by the sensor unit is converted into sound data and then transmitted to the control unit, and A speaker device in which the control unit analyzes the sound data to detect the location of the user and drives the driving unit.

13. In Paragraph 12, The above driving unit includes a motor and a mass member, one side of which is connected to the motor and rotates by the driving of the motor. The above mass member is formed such that the weight on the other side is heavier than the weight on the one side, and A speaker device in which, when a user is positioned at a preset angle from the front direction of the above-mentioned front part, the control unit rotates the motor so that the other side of the mass member rotates toward the direction in which the user is located.

14. In Paragraph 1, The above front portion includes a front cover, and The above front cover is positioned on one side of the housing, and A speaker device having a friction member disposed on the edge of the front cover or on the edge of one side of the housing.

15. In Paragraph 14, The above front portion includes a front inner cover, and A speaker device wherein the front inner cover is disposed on one side of the housing and is covered by the front cover, supports the speaker part, and covers the internal space of the housing in which the speaker part and the driving part are accommodated.

16. In Paragraph 1, A speaker device wherein the outer surface of the housing is formed as a curved surface, or the outer surface of the housing is formed such that a plurality of flat surfaces are arranged continuously along the circumferential direction of the housing, or the outer surface of one side of the housing and the outer surface of the middle side of the housing are formed as curved surfaces and the edge of the other side of the housing is formed in a polygonal band shape.

Images