Acoustic device, signal processing method, and acoustic system

Abstract

An acoustic device according to the present disclosure comprises: a first vibrator including a first operating unit and a first drive unit connected to the first operating unit; a second vibrator including a second drive unit in contact with the first drive unit on the opposite side to the direction in which the first drive unit is connected to the first operating unit, and a second operating unit connected to the opposite side to the direction in which the second drive unit is in contact with the first drive unit; a first vibrating plate connected to the first operating unit on the opposite side to the direction in which the first operating unit is connected to the first drive unit; and a second vibrating plate connected to the second operating unit on the opposite side to the direction in which the second operating unit is connected to the second drive unit. On the basis of switching control, the first vibrator and the second vibrator vibrate the first vibrating plate and the second vibrating plate or suppress vibration of the first vibrating plate and the second vibrating plate and vibrate the first drive unit and the second drive unit.

Description

Audio device, signal processing method, and audio system

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an audio device, a signal processing method, and an audio system.

[0002] A technique for outputting sound using a vibrator and a speaker included inside a television or the like is known.

[0003] International Publication No. 2024 / 057821

[0004] In the prior art, in order to perform vibration and sound generation, one or more vibrators and speakers are used to output sound.

[0005] However, it is difficult to install a plurality of audio devices such as vibrators and speakers at positions desired by users, such as seats in a vehicle where sufficient space cannot be secured, or seats in a movie theater. Therefore, in the prior art, it has been difficult to flexibly install audio devices according to the needs and desires of users when sufficient installation space cannot be secured.

[0006] The present disclosure proposes an audio device, a signal processing method, and an audio system that solve these problems and can be flexibly installed according to the needs and desires of users.

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, an audio device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a first vibrator including a first operating part and a first driving part connected to the first operating part, a second driving part that contacts the first driving part on the opposite side of the direction in which the first driving part is connected to the first operating part, and a second operating part that is connected to the second driving part on the opposite side of the direction in which the second driving part contacts the first driving part, a second vibrator including the second operating part, a first diaphragm that is connected to the first operating part on the opposite side of the direction in which the first operating part is connected to the first driving part, and a second diaphragm that is connected to the second operating part on the opposite side of the direction in which the second operating part is connected to the second driving part. The first vibrator and the second vibrator vibrate the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm, or suppress the vibration of the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm and vibrate the first driving part and the second driving part based on switching control.

[0008] Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an acoustic device according to the embodiment. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the operation of the acoustic device according to the embodiment when it is vibrating and producing sound. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the operation of the acoustic device according to the embodiment when it is vibrating. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an acoustic device according to the embodiment. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the base plate of an acoustic device according to the embodiment. Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of the base plate of an acoustic device according to the embodiment. Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of the operation of the acoustic device according to the embodiment when it is producing sound. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of the operation of the acoustic device according to the embodiment when it is vibrating. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of the acoustic device according to the embodiment installed on a desk. Figure 10 is a diagram showing an example of the acoustic device according to the embodiment installed on a chair. Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an acoustic device according to the embodiment. Figure 12 is a diagram showing an example of the operation of the acoustic device according to the embodiment when it is vibrating and producing sound. Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of the operation of the acoustic device according to the embodiment when it is vibrating. Figure 14 is a diagram showing an example of the acoustic device according to the embodiment installed on a desk. Figure 15 is a diagram showing an example of the acoustic device according to the embodiment installed on a chair. Figure 16 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an acoustic device according to the embodiment. Figure 17 is a diagram showing an example configuration of an acoustic device according to an embodiment. Figure 18 is a diagram showing opposing drive units. Figure 19 is a diagram showing an example configuration of a vibrator. Figure 20 is a diagram showing an example of measurement results for each phase and phase adjustment in an acoustic device according to an embodiment. Figure 21 is a diagram showing an example of signal processing in an acoustic device according to an embodiment. Figure 22 is a diagram showing an example of signal processing in an acoustic device according to an embodiment. Figure 23 is a diagram showing an example of adjustment between excitation and sound generation in each phase. Figure 24 is a diagram showing an example of signal processing in an acoustic device according to an embodiment. Figure 25 is a diagram showing an example of signal processing by an acoustic device according to an embodiment. Figure 26 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer that realizes the functions of an acoustic device.

[0009] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, the same parts will be denoted by the same reference numerals to avoid redundant explanations.

[0010] This disclosure will be described in the following order of items: 1. Prior Art 2. Embodiments 2-1. Example of the configuration of an acoustic device according to an embodiment 2-2. Example of the operation of an acoustic device according to an embodiment 2-3. First example of the configuration of an acoustic device according to an embodiment 2-4. Example of the operation of the first example of the configuration of an acoustic device according to an embodiment 2-5. Second example of the configuration of an acoustic device according to an embodiment 2-6. Example of the operation of the second example of the configuration of an acoustic device according to an embodiment 2-7. Other configurations of an acoustic device according to an embodiment 2-8. Control of an acoustic device according to an embodiment 3. Other embodiments 4. Effects of an acoustic device according to this disclosure 5. Hardware configuration

[0011] (1. Prior Art) In the prior art, a vibrator is used to generate vibration. In addition, in the prior art, a speaker is used to produce sound. Therefore, in the prior art, when outputting vibration and sound simultaneously, or when switching between outputting vibration and sound, at least two devices, one vibrator and one speaker, are used to output sound. In this disclosure, sound includes vibration caused by vibration and sound production.

[0012] Furthermore, conventional technology sometimes utilizes multiple speakers. For example, to suppress vibrations when producing low-frequency sounds, two identical speakers are placed facing each other to produce sound. Therefore, in conventional technology, when outputting both excitation and vibration-suppressed sound, two speakers and one exciter are used to output the sound.

[0013] However, due to space constraints, it was sometimes difficult to install both a vibrator and a speaker. Therefore, this disclosure proposes an acoustic device in which the vibrator and speaker are integrated.

[0014] (2. Embodiments) (2-1. Example of the configuration of an acoustic device according to the embodiment) Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an acoustic device 100 according to the embodiment. The acoustic device 100 comprises a first vibrator 10, a second vibrator 20, a first diaphragm 30a, a second diaphragm 30b, a sealing portion 40a, and a sealing portion 40b.

[0015] As shown in Figure 1, the acoustic device 100 includes a first vibrator 10 and a second vibrator 20 positioned opposite the first vibrator 10.

[0016] The first vibrator 10 includes a first moving part 11 and a first drive unit 12 connected to the first moving part 11. The second vibrator 20 includes a second moving part 21 and a second drive unit 22 connected to the second moving part 21. The first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 are, for example, actuators.

[0017] The second vibrator 20 includes a second drive unit 22 that contacts the first drive unit 12 on the opposite side of the direction in which the first drive unit 12 connects to the first operating unit 11, and a second operating unit 21 that connects the second drive unit 22 on the opposite side of the direction in which it contacts the first drive unit 12. Note that the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 are also simply referred to as vibrators or actuators when not distinguishing between them.

[0018] The first moving part 11 and the second moving part 21 are, for example, voice coils. The first drive unit 12 and the second drive unit 22 are, for example, magnets.

[0019] The first diaphragm 30a is connected to the first movable part 11 on the opposite side of the direction in which the first movable part 11 is connected to the first drive unit 12. The second diaphragm 30b is connected to the second movable part 21 on the opposite side of the direction in which the second movable part 21 is connected to the second drive unit 22.

[0020] The first diaphragm 30a and the second diaphragm 30b are all or part of the enclosure (hereinafter also referred to as the enclosure or box) that houses the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20. The first diaphragm 30a and the second diaphragm 30b may have any configuration as long as they can be vibrated by the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20. The first diaphragm 30a and the second diaphragm 30b may have any shape as long as they are in contact with the first movable part 11 and the second movable part 21. When not distinguishing between them, the first diaphragm 30a and the second diaphragm 30b are simply referred to as the diaphragm or enclosure.

[0021] Based on switching control, the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 either vibrate the first diaphragm 30a and the second diaphragm 30b, or suppress the vibration of the first diaphragm 30a and the second diaphragm 30b while vibrating the first drive unit 12 and the second drive unit 22.

[0022] For example, the acoustic device 100 includes one or more sealing parts connecting the first diaphragm 30a and the second diaphragm 30b. Specifically, the sealing parts are installed approximately in the center between the first diaphragm 30a and the second diaphragm 30b, symmetrically on either side of the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20. The sealing parts only need to be installed in positions that allow the first diaphragm 30a and the second diaphragm 30b to vibrate in approximately the same way. Furthermore, the number of sealing parts can be any number as long as the first diaphragm 30a and the second diaphragm 30b can vibrate.

[0023] In the example shown in Figure 1, the sealing portion 40a and the sealing portion 40b are made of a flexible material that allows the first diaphragm 30a and the second diaphragm 30b to move. For example, the sealing portion 40a and the sealing portion 40b are cushions or rubber edges.

[0024] In this disclosure, the enclosure (box) is composed of, for example, a first diaphragm 30a, a second diaphragm 30b, a sealing portion 40a, and a sealing portion 40b.

[0025] As shown in Figure 1, the sound device 100 includes a control unit 130. The control unit 130 adjusts the output sound or vibration through signal control processing and the like performed by the control unit 130.

[0026] The control unit 130 is implemented, for example, by a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), etc., which executes a program stored outside the sound device 100 using RAM (Random Access Memory) or the like as a working area. The control unit 130 is also a controller and may be implemented by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). For example, a computer includes a control unit.

[0027] The control unit 130 includes an output control unit 131 that adjusts the sound output by controlling the vibrations of the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20.

[0028] The output control unit 131 controls the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 so that they can switch between vibrating the first diaphragm 30a and the second diaphragm 30b, or suppressing the vibration of the first diaphragm 30a and the second diaphragm 30b and vibrating the first drive unit 12 and the second drive unit 22.

[0029] For example, the output control unit 131 controls the output of the acoustic signal by adjusting the phase of the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 as a control for switching vibrations. Specifically, the output control unit 131 controls the output of the acoustic signal by setting the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 to be in phase. In addition, the output control unit 131 controls the output of the acoustic signal from the second vibrator 20 to be out of phase with respect to the acoustic signal from the first vibrator 10. For example, the output control unit 131 controls the output of sound such as sound generation or vibration by performing the above switching. The terms in phase and out of phase will be explained later.

[0030] The output control unit 131 controls the output of the acoustic signal by adjusting the amount of excitation and sound generation. The adjustment of the amount of excitation and sound generation will be explained later.

[0031] For example, the output control unit 131 controls the input and output of a circuit including a delay unit (delay circuit), a gain adjustment unit, an equalizer, an HPF (High-Pass Filter), etc. (for example, the power input to the excitation element) in order to control the vibration of the first exciter 10 and the second exciter 20. Note that the configuration of the output control unit 131 is not limited to this example, and any configuration is acceptable as long as it realizes the function of controlling the vibration of the first exciter 10 and the second exciter 20.

[0032] (2-2. Example of operation of the acoustic device according to the embodiment) An example of operation of the acoustic device 100 will be described using Figures 2 and 3. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of operation when the acoustic device 100 according to the embodiment performs excitation and sound generation. The output control unit 131 controls the driving of the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20.

[0033] For example, the output control unit 131 controls the first vibrator 10 to move in the opposite direction to the direction in which the second vibrator 20 moves. Specifically, the output control unit 131 controls the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 to be in opposite phase.

[0034] In addition, reverse phase refers to the case where the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 push and pull the first vibrating plate 30a and the second vibrating plate 30b in directions opposite to each other and in directions facing each other. In the example in Figure 2, in reverse phase, the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 push the first vibrating plate 30a and the second vibrating plate 30b in the direction of arrow 201a and arrow 201b, respectively. Also, in reverse phase, the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 pull the first vibrating plate 30a and the second vibrating plate 30b in the direction of arrow 202a and arrow 202b, respectively.

[0035] The first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 are pushed in the direction toward the first vibrating plate 30a using the first movable part 11 and in the direction toward the second vibrating plate 30b using the second movable part 21. Alternatively, the first drive unit 12 and the second drive unit 22 vibrate by pushing in the direction toward the opposing vibrator. For example, the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 vibrate by repeatedly pushing in the direction toward the vibrating plate and toward the opposing vibrator as described above.

[0036] The first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 may be pushed approximately simultaneously in the direction of the first vibrating plate 30a and the direction of the second vibrating plate 30b, respectively. Alternatively, the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 may be pushed approximately simultaneously in the direction toward the other opposing vibrator.

[0037] Figure 2(a) shows an example of operation when the acoustic device 100 is performing excitation and sound production. Figures 2(a) and 2(b) show the acoustic device 100 with the same configuration as in Figure 1. The output control unit 131 operates the first exciter 10 and the second exciter 20 by outputting an electrical signal. The first movable part (voice coil) 11 pushes the first diaphragm 30a in the direction of arrow 201a. The second movable part (voice coil) 21 pushes the second diaphragm 30b in the direction of arrow 201b. As the acoustic device 100 is pushed in the directions of arrows 211a and 211b, its volume increases.

[0038] Figure 2(b) shows an example of operation when the sound device 100 is performing vibration and sound production. As shown in Figure 2(b), the first movable part 11 pulls in the first diaphragm 30a in the direction of arrow 202a of the first drive part 12. The second movable part 21 pulls in the second diaphragm 30b in the direction of arrow 202b of the second drive part 22. The volume of the sound device 100 decreases as it is pulled in in the directions of arrows 212a and 212b.

[0039] The acoustic device 100 vibrates the first diaphragm 30a and the second diaphragm 30b by repeating the operations shown in Figure 2(a) and Figure 2(b). The acoustic device 100 produces sound because the internal volume of the acoustic device 100 changes due to the pushing and pulling operations described above. The acoustic device 100 is also excited by the vibration of the first diaphragm 30a and the second diaphragm 30b.

[0040] Next, we will explain the case when the acoustic device 100 is vibrated. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of operation when the acoustic device 100 according to the embodiment is vibrated. For example, the output control unit 131 controls the first vibrator 10 to move in the same direction as the second vibrator 20 moves. In other words, the output control unit 131 controls the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 to be in phase.

[0041] In-phase operation refers to the case where the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 push and pull the first vibrating plate 30a and the second vibrating plate 30b in the same direction. In the example in Figure 3, in-phase operation, when the first vibrator 10 pulls the first vibrating plate 30a in the direction of arrow 311a, the second vibrator 20 pushes the second vibrating plate 30b in the direction of arrow 321a. Also in-phase operation, when the first vibrator 10 pushes the first vibrating plate 30a in the direction of arrow 311b, the second vibrator 20 pulls the second vibrating plate 30b in the direction of arrow 321b.

[0042] In the same phase, when the first exciter 10 performs a pushing motion, the second exciter 20 performs a pulling motion. Conversely, when the first exciter 10 performs a pulling motion, the second exciter 20 performs a pushing motion. As a result, the first drive unit 12 and the second drive unit 22 become so-called moving magnets and vibrate.

[0043] The first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 vibrate when the first movable part 11 pushes toward the first vibrating plate 30a, the second movable part 21 pushes toward the first vibrating device 10, and when the first movable part 11 pushes toward the second vibrating device 20, the second movable part 21 pushes toward the second vibrating plate 30b.

[0044] Figure 3(a) is a diagram showing an operation example when the acoustic device 100 performs vibration. Figure 3(a) and Figure 3(b) are acoustic devices 100 having the same configuration as that in Figure 1. The output control unit 131 operates the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 by outputting an electric signal. The first operating unit 11 pulls the first diaphragm 30a in the direction of the arrow 311a of the second vibrator 20. Also, the second operating unit 21 pushes out the second diaphragm 30b in the direction of the arrow 321a of the second diaphragm 30b.

[0045] Figure 3(b) is a diagram showing an operation example when the acoustic device 100 performs vibration. Contrary to Figure 3(a), in Figure 3(b), the first operating unit (voice coil) 11 pushes out the first diaphragm 30a in the direction of the arrow 311b of the first diaphragm 30a. Also, the second operating unit (voice coil) 21 pulls the second diaphragm 30b in the direction of the arrow 321b of the second vibrator 20.

[0046] That is, the first drive unit 12 and the second drive unit 22 vibrate in the direction of the arrow 301a of the first diaphragm 30a and the direction of the arrow 301b of the second diaphragm 30b.

[0047] The acoustic device 100 vibrates the first drive unit 12 and the second drive unit 22 by repeating the operations of Figure 3(a) and Figure 3(b). The first drive unit 12 and the second drive unit 22 become so-called moving magnets and vibrate. The acoustic device 100 vibrates the first drive unit 12 and the second drive unit 22 like a pendulum by the above-described pushing-out operation and pulling-in operation to perform vibration. Note that, in the case of the operation example described in Figure 3, the acoustic device 100 does not produce sound because the internal capacitance of the acoustic device 100 does not change.

[0048] (2-3. First Configuration Example of Acoustic Device According to Embodiment) Next, in the following description, an example in which the acoustic device 110 includes a base plate 60a, a base plate 60b, a damper 70a, and a damper 70b in addition to the configuration example of the acoustic device 100 described in Figure 1 will be described. For example, the first diaphragm 30a and the second diaphragm 30b can be operated by vibration. The acoustic device 110 may be sealed by an enclosure.

[0049] Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example configuration of the acoustic device 110 according to the embodiment. The acoustic device 110 shown in Figure 4 is a diagram showing a part of the acoustic device 100 described in Figure 1 in detail. Note that in Figure 4, the explanation of the first diaphragm 30a and the second diaphragm 30b, etc., which are configurations that overlap with those in Figure 1, is omitted.

[0050] The first vibrator 10 includes a first voice coil (first moving part) 15 and a first magnet (first driving part) 16. The second vibrator 20 includes a second voice coil (second moving part) 25 and a second magnet (second driving part) 26.

[0051] For example, base plate 60a and base plate 60b are connected via dampers that pass through symmetrically installed sealing portions approximately in the center of each, and are in contact with the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 at approximately the center between the first vibrating plate 30a and the second vibrating plate 30b. When base plate 60a and base plate 60b are not distinguished from each other, they are simply referred to as base plate 60.

[0052] Damper 70a and damper 70b connect base plate 60a and base plate 60b to the first vibrator 10 and second vibrator 20, respectively. Note that when not distinguishing between damper 70a and damper 70b, they are simply referred to as damper 70.

[0053] The base plate 60a penetrates between the sealing portion 40c and the sealing portion 40d and protrudes to the outside of the sound device 110. Similarly, the base plate 60b penetrates between the sealing portion 40e and the sealing portion 40f and protrudes to the outside of the sound device 110.

[0054] The fixing portion 80a is the tip of the base plate 60a, and is the tip in the direction that protrudes outward from the sound device 110. When the sound device 110 is attached to an object, the fixing portion 80a is bonded to the object. Similarly, the fixing portion 80b is the tip of the base plate 60b, and is the tip in the direction that protrudes outward from the sound device 110. When the sound device 110 is attached to an object, the fixing portion 80b is bonded to the object. The fixing portions 80a and 80b are bonded to the object, for example, by screwing them together.

[0055] The vibration excitation section connects the base plate to the object to be vibrated. In the acoustic device 110, the fixed section 80a and the fixed section 80b function as vibration excitation sections that transmit the excitation. In other words, in the acoustic device 110, the fixed section 80a and the fixed section 80b are also vibration excitation sections.

[0056] The base plate of the acoustic device 110 according to this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to Figures 5 and 6. The base plate may have any structure as long as it is capable of transmitting vibrations to the object that is to be vibrated.

[0057] Figure 5 shows an example of a base plate for an acoustic device 110 according to an embodiment. In the example in Figure 5(a), a base plate 60 is shown that is bonded between the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20.

[0058] The base plate 60 in Figure 5(a) is installed between the first magnet 16 and the second magnet 26. In other words, in Figure 5(a), the first magnet 16 is in contact with the second magnet 26 via the base plate 60. Although the example in Figure 5(a) describes an example where the base plate and damper are integrated, the base plate and damper may be separate.

[0059] The installation position of the base plate 60 is not limited to the examples described above. For example, the base plate 60 may be fixed to a magnet that integrates the first magnet 16 and the second magnet 26. Alternatively, the base plate 60 may be fixed to the magnet that integrates the first magnet 16 and the second magnet 26 at any position via a damper.

[0060] The base plate 60 includes a spring portion 55a, a spring portion 55b, a spring portion 55c, and a spring portion 55d. The spring portions 55a, 55b, 55c, and 55d are made of resin or metal. The spring portions 55a, 55b, 55c, and 55d may be dampers. The dampers may be cloth dampers.

[0061] Figure 5(b) shows an example in which the base plate 60 is bonded between the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20. The base plate 60 is also bonded to the object to be attached by fixing parts 80c, 80d, 80e, and 80f.

[0062] Figure 6 shows an example of a base plate of the acoustic device 110 according to the embodiment. Figure 6(a) is a side view of Figure 5(b). Figure 6(b) is a perspective view of Figure 5(b). As shown in Figure 6(a), the acoustic device 110 is bonded to the mounting object with screws or the like. Note that the method of bonding to the mounting object is not limited to screw fastening, and any method that allows attachment to the mounting object is acceptable.

[0063] (2-4. Operation Example of the First Configuration Example of the Acoustic Device According to the Embodiment) An example of the operation of the acoustic device 110 will be described using Figures 7 and 8. Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of the operation when the acoustic device 110 according to the embodiment is producing sound. The output control unit 131 (not shown) controls the driving of the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20.

[0064] As described above, unlike the aforementioned acoustic device 100, the acoustic device 110 has a structure that allows switching between outputting only sound and outputting only vibration by transmitting the vibrations generated by the acoustic device 110 through a base plate 60a and a base plate 60b that fix the acoustic device 110 to the object.

[0065] For example, when generating sound, the output control unit 131 controls the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 to move in opposite directions. In other words, the output control unit 131 controls the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 to move in opposite phases.

[0066] For example, the output control unit 131 performs the same control on the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 of the sound device 110 as the output control unit 131 for the sound device 100. Note that the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 in Figure 7 operate in the same way as the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 in Figure 2.

[0067] By the way, since the sound device 110 has an additional configuration consisting of a damper 70a, a damper 70b, a base plate 60a, and a base plate 60b, I will now explain the differences between it and the sound device 100 that arise from this additional configuration.

[0068] Unlike the acoustic device 100, the acoustic device 110 suppresses excitation when producing sound. As shown in Figures 7(a) and 7(b), the acoustic device 110 includes dampers 70a and 70b at the positions where the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 are in contact. The acoustic device 110 outputs vibrations in response to excitation from the base plate 60a and the base plate 60b.

[0069] As shown in Figure 7(a), in the acoustic device 110, the first vibrator 10 pushes the first diaphragm 30a in the direction of arrow 701a, and the second vibrator 20 pushes the second diaphragm 30b in the direction of arrow 701b. As a result, the dampers 70a and 70b that are in contact with the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 do not vibrate, or their vibration is suppressed.

[0070] Similarly, as shown in Figure 7(b), the acoustic device 110 has the first vibrator 10 pull the first diaphragm 30a in the direction of arrow 702a, and the second vibrator 20 pulls the second diaphragm 30b in the direction of arrow 702b.

[0071] The dampers 70a and 70b, which are in contact with the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20, do not vibrate or their vibrations are suppressed. For example, because the dampers 70a and 70b are located between the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20, they are not affected by vibrations caused by the pushing and pulling movements of the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20. Furthermore, because the dampers 70a and 70b are fixed to a magnet that integrates the first magnet 16 and the second magnet 26, they are not affected by vibrations caused by the pushing and pulling movements of the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20. On the other hand, the acoustic device 110, like the acoustic device 100, produces sound because the internal volume of the acoustic device 110 changes due to the pushing and pulling movements described above.

[0072] Figure 8 shows an example of operation when the acoustic device 110 according to the embodiment is vibrated. The output control unit 131 (not shown) controls the driving of the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20.

[0073] For example, the output control unit 131 controls the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 to move in the same direction. In other words, the output control unit 131 controls the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 to be in phase.

[0074] The output control unit 131 performs the same control on the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 of the sound device 110 as the output control unit 131 for the sound device 100. The first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 in Figure 8 operate in the same way as the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 in Figure 3.

[0075] As shown in Figure 8(a), when the acoustic device 110 is vibrated, the first vibrator 10 pushes the first diaphragm 30a in the direction of arrow 801a, and the second vibrator 20 pulls it in the direction of arrow 801b relative to the first vibrator 10. In addition, the first magnet 16 and the second magnet 26 vibrate in the direction of the second vibrator 20.

[0076] Similarly, as shown in Figure 8(b), when the acoustic device 110 is vibrated, the first vibrator 10 pulls the second vibrator 20 in the direction of arrow 802a, and the second vibrator 20 pushes the second diaphragm 30b in the direction of arrow 802b. In addition, the first magnet 16 and the second magnet 26 vibrate in the direction of the first vibrator 10.

[0077] In the acoustic device 110, the first magnet 16 and the second magnet 26 move in the direction of the first vibrator 10 and the direction of the second vibrator 20, so that vibrations are transmitted to the object via the base plate. In the acoustic device 100, the first magnet 16 and the second magnet 26 become moving magnets, and the object may be vibrated by vibrating the enclosure. Note that, like the acoustic device 100, the acoustic device 110 does not produce sound because the internal volume of the acoustic device 110 does not change.

[0078] Next, we will explain examples of how the sound device 110 can be installed on objects. For example, objects can be desks, chairs, etc. The sound device 110 can also be installed on chairs attached to vehicles, etc.

[0079] Figure 9 shows an example of the acoustic device 110 according to the embodiment being installed on a desk 901. As shown in Figure 9, the acoustic device 110 has a fixing part 80a and a fixing part 80b fixed to the desk 901. In the example shown in Figure 9, the acoustic device 110 vibrates the desk 901 as a so-called vibrating plate by vibrations transmitted from the base plate 60a and the base plate 60b.

[0080] Figure 10 shows an example of the acoustic device 110 according to the embodiment being installed on a chair 151. As shown in Figure 10, the acoustic device 110 has a fixing part 80a and a fixing part 80b fixed to the backrest of the chair 151. In the example shown in Figure 10, the acoustic device 110 uses the backrest of the chair 151 as a so-called vibrating plate to vibrate through vibrations transmitted from the base plate 60a and the base plate 60b.

[0081] (2-5. Second Configuration Example of the Acoustic Device According to the Embodiment) Next, the following description will use Figure 11 to explain the acoustic device 120. Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the acoustic device 120 according to the embodiment. The acoustic device 120 adopts a similar configuration to the acoustic device 110. On the other hand, the mounting location of the acoustic device 120 to the mounting object is different from that of the acoustic device 110. Details common to the acoustic device 110 will be omitted as appropriate.

[0082] For example, the vibration section 161a and vibration section 161b connect the first vibrating plate 30a to the object to be vibrated. Also, the fixing section 162a and fixing section 162b fix the second vibrating plate 30b to the object to which it is attached. In addition, the acoustic device 120 may be configured such that the vibration section connects the object to be vibrated to the second vibrating plate 30b, and the fixing section fixes the object to which it is attached to the first vibrating plate 30a.

[0083] As shown in Figure 11, the acoustic device 120 fixes the fixing portion 162a and fixing portion 162b of the second diaphragm 30b to the object. The acoustic device 120 transmits vibration from the excitation portion 161a and excitation portion 161b of the first diaphragm 30a.

[0084] (2-6. Operation Example of a Second Configuration Example of the Acoustic Device According to the Embodiment) Next, an operation example of the acoustic device 120 will be described using Figures 12 and 13. Figure 12 is a diagram showing an operation example of the acoustic device 120 according to the embodiment when it performs excitation and sound generation. Unlike the acoustic device 110 described above, the acoustic device 120 has a structure that allows switching between sound generation and excitation, and excitation only, by transmitting the vibrations generated by the acoustic device 120 from the excitation unit 161a and the excitation unit 161b.

[0085] For example, when generating sound and vibration, the output control unit 131 (not shown) controls the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 to move in opposite directions. In other words, the output control unit 131 controls the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 to be in opposite phase.

[0086] The output control unit 131 performs the same control on the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 of the sound device 120 as the output control unit 131 for the sound device 100. The first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 in Figure 12 operate in the same way as the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 in Figure 2.

[0087] Incidentally, unlike the sound device 110, the sound device 120 also vibrates when it produces sound. As shown in Figures 12(a) and 12(b), the sound device 120 has dampers 70a and 70b at the position where the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 come into contact. On the other hand, the sound device 120 outputs vibrations in response to the vibration from the vibration section 161a and vibration section 161b of the first diaphragm 30a.

[0088] As shown in Figure 12(a), the acoustic device 120 works by having the first vibrator 10 push the first diaphragm 30a in the direction of arrow 252. Meanwhile, the acoustic device 120 is fixed to the object by the fixing part 162a and fixing part 162b included in the second diaphragm 30b. The acoustic device 120 produces sound because the capacitance of the first diaphragm 30a changes.

[0089] Similarly, as shown in Figure 12(b), the acoustic device 120 has the first vibrator 10 pull the first diaphragm 30a in the direction of arrow 255. The acoustic device 120 is also fixed to the object by the fixing part 162a and fixing part 162b included in the second diaphragm 30b. The acoustic device 120 produces sound because the capacitance of the first diaphragm 30a changes.

[0090] The first diaphragm 30a vibrates due to the pushing and pulling movements described above. The acoustic device 120 is also excited via the excitation parts 161a and 161b included in the first diaphragm 30a.

[0091] Figure 13 shows an example of operation when the acoustic device 120 according to the embodiment is vibrated. The output control unit 131 controls the driving of the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20.

[0092] For example, the output control unit 131 controls the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 to move in the same direction. In other words, the output control unit 131 controls the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 to be in phase.

[0093] The output control unit 131 performs the same control on the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 of the sound device 120 as the output control unit 131 for the sound device 100. The first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 in Figure 13 operate in the same way as the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 in Figure 3.

[0094] As shown in Figure 13(a), when the acoustic device 120 is vibrated, the first vibrator 10 pushes the first diaphragm 30a in the direction of arrow 351, and the second vibrator 20 pulls it in the direction of arrow 352 relative to the first vibrator 10. Also, the first magnet 16 and the second magnet 26 move in the direction of arrow 353 relative to the second vibrator 20.

[0095] Similarly, as shown in Figure 13(b), when the acoustic device 120 is vibrated, the first vibrator 10 pulls the second vibrator 20 in the direction of arrow 354, and the second vibrator 20 pushes the second diaphragm 30b in the direction of arrow 355. Also, the first magnet 16 and the second magnet 26 move in the direction of arrow 356 of the first vibrator 10.

[0096] In the acoustic device 120, the first magnet 16 and the second magnet 26 move in the direction of arrow 356 on the first vibrator 10 and in the direction of arrow 353 on the second vibrator 20, so that vibrations are transmitted to the object via the excitation section 161a and the excitation section 161b.

[0097] Next, an example of installing the acoustic device 120 on an object will be described. Figure 14 shows an example of installing the acoustic device 120 according to the embodiment on a desk 901. As shown in Figure 14, the acoustic device 120 has its fixing parts 162a and 162b fixed to the floor, and vibrates the desk 901 as a so-called vibrating plate by vibrations transmitted from the vibration parts 161a and 161b.

[0098] Figure 15 shows an example of the acoustic device 120 according to the embodiment being installed on a chair 151. In the example of Figure 15, the acoustic device 120 installed inside the cushion will be described. The acoustic device 120 has a fixing part 162a and a fixing part 162b fixed to the backrest of the chair 151, and the vibrations transmitted from the vibration part 161a and vibration part 161b cause the cushion of the chair 151 to vibrate as a so-called vibrating plate.

[0099] (2-7. Other Configurations of the Acoustic Device According to the Embodiment) Next, in the following description, other configuration examples of the acoustic device will be explained using Figure 16. Figure 16 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the acoustic device according to the embodiment.

[0100] The acoustic device 101 shown in Figure 16(a) is a device constructed by changing the number and position of the sealing parts compared to the acoustic device 100 shown in Figure 1. The acoustic device 101 includes sealing parts 40g, 40h, 40i, and 40j. In addition, the position and number of sealing parts may be changed in the acoustic device 101 as long as the diaphragm connected to the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 can vibrate in substantially the same way.

[0101] The acoustic device 102 shown in Figure 16(b) is a device configured with a box (diaphragm or enclosure) that is in contact with the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 and is movable. In this example of the acoustic device 102, the enclosure (diaphragm) is deformable to allow vibration without including a sealing part. The diaphragm does not have to be symmetrical, and any structure is acceptable as long as the diaphragm is capable of vibrating.

[0102] The acoustic device 103 shown in Figure 16(c) is a device that includes a box (diaphragm or enclosure) in which a diaphragm is vibrated in contact with either the first vibrator 10 or the second vibrator 20. Furthermore, the acoustic device 103 uses a seal portion 40k that can move on only one side to configure the enclosure (diaphragm) in contact with either the first vibrator 10 or the second vibrator 20 to vibrate.

[0103] The acoustic device 104 shown in Figure 16(d) is a device constructed by arranging a first vibrator 10 and a second vibrator 20 opposite each other using a speaker unit. The acoustic device 104 is fixed by fixing parts 650a and 650b.

[0104] Next, other configuration examples of the sound device will be explained using Figure 17. Figure 17 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the sound device according to the embodiment.

[0105] The acoustic device 105 shown in Figure 17(a) is a device constructed by changing the box (enclosure) of the acoustic device 101 shown in Figure 16(a). For example, the acoustic device 105 has an enclosure that includes a first diaphragm 30a and a second diaphragm 30b, and includes a bass reflex port. The acoustic device 105 is a so-called bass reflex type and does not need to have a sealed box structure. A bass reflex type is a form of speaker shape used, for example, to amplify the low-frequency range of sound by Helmholtz resonance.

[0106] Similarly, the acoustic device 106 shown in Figure 17(b) is a device constructed by changing the box (enclosure) of the acoustic device 101 shown in Figure 16(a). For example, the enclosure of the acoustic device 106, which includes the first diaphragm 30a and the second diaphragm 30b, includes a resonant tube. The acoustic device 106 is a so-called resonant tube type configuration, and the box does not necessarily have to be a sealed structure. A resonant tube type is, for example, a form of speaker shape used to utilize resonance.

[0107] Similarly, the acoustic device 107 shown in Figure 17(c) is a device constructed by changing the box (enclosure) of the acoustic device 101 shown in Figure 16(a). For example, the enclosure of the acoustic device 107, which includes the first diaphragm 30a and the second diaphragm 30b, includes a passive radiator. The acoustic device 107 may have a configuration that is called a passive radiator and includes a speaker unit that outputs bass frequencies. A passive radiator is, for example, a speaker that operates by utilizing air vibrations within the speaker enclosure.

[0108] As shown in Figure 17, the acoustic device 107 includes a speaker 171a and a speaker 171b that function as passive radiators. The acoustic device 107 may also include sealing parts 40l, 40m, 40n, and 40o that connect the enclosures of speaker 171a and speaker 171b.

[0109] Next, an example of the configuration of an acoustic device's vibrator will be explained using Figures 18 and 19. Figure 18 shows opposing drive units. As shown in Figure 18, the first drive unit 12 included in the first vibrator 10 and the second drive unit 22 included in the second vibrator 20 are arranged opposite each other.

[0110] The following explanation will use examples that utilize magnets and voice coils, as used in dynamic speakers and similar devices.

[0111] Figure 19 shows an example of the configuration of a vibrator. As shown in Figure 19(a), the first vibrator 10 is composed of a magnet 951a, a magnet 951c, a voice coil 952a, a voice coil 952b, and a yoke 953a. The second vibrator 20 is composed of a magnet 951b, a magnet 951d, a voice coil 952c, a voice coil 952d, and a yoke 953b.

[0112] For example, the first drive unit 12 and the second drive unit 22 are in contact via a connecting member. As shown in Figure 19(b), a connecting member 954 may be provided between the first vibrator 10, which has the structure shown in Figure 19(a), and the second vibrator 20.

[0113] As shown in Figures 19(c), 19(d), and 19(e), the magnetic circuits may be made common. In the example in Figure 19(c), the yoke 953a of the first vibrator 10 and the yoke 953b of the second vibrator 20 are made common. In the example in Figure 19(d), in addition to the yoke integration in Figure 19(c), the magnets of the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 are made common, becoming magnet 951e and magnet 951f. In the example in Figure 19(e), the magnets of the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 are made common, and in this example only magnet 951g is used.

[0114] The actuators (first and second exciters) can be of any type. For example, the actuators may be linear motors, hydraulics, pneumatics, ultrasonic motors, piezoelectric elements, etc. Alternatively, the actuators may be exciters such as piezoelectric elements.

[0115] (2-8. Control of the Acoustic Devices According to the Embodiment) Next, the control of the acoustic devices 100, 110, and 120 (hereinafter referred to as "acoustic devices 100, etc.") according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 20 is a diagram showing an example of the measurement results of each phase in the acoustic devices 100, etc. according to the embodiment, and the adjustment of the phases.

[0116] Figure 20(a) is a diagram showing the sound pressure of each phase of the acoustic device 100, etc., according to the embodiment. In the graph shown in Figure 20(a), the vertical axis represents sound pressure (dB), and the horizontal axis represents frequency (Hz).

[0117] Figure 20(b) is a diagram showing the acceleration of each phase of the acoustic device 100, etc., according to the embodiment. In the graph shown in Figure 20(b), the vertical axis represents acceleration (g), and the horizontal axis represents frequency (Hz).

[0118] Figure 20(c) is a diagram showing the sound pressure difference of each phase of the acoustic device 100, etc., according to the embodiment. In the graph shown in Figure 20(c), the vertical axis represents the sound pressure difference (dB), and the horizontal axis represents the frequency (Hz). Note that in the graph shown in Figure 20(b), the sound pressure difference of each phase is shown relative to phase 0°, with phase 0° as the reference.

[0119] Figure 20(d) shows the phases for canceling each phase of the acoustic device 100, etc., according to the embodiment. In the graph shown in Figure 20(d), the vertical axis represents phase (°), and the horizontal axis represents frequency (Hz). The phases for canceling each phase are used to set the phase at each frequency based on the measurement results in Figures 20(a), 20(b), and 20(c) described above.

[0120] For example, in the graph shown in Figure 20(c), a phase of 0°, a phase of 180°, and a sound pressure difference of 20 dB occur between 100 Hz and 120 Hz. Therefore, the sound device 100 can change its phase for each frequency, as shown in the graph in Figure 20(d).

[0121] Next, the phase control in the acoustic device 100, etc. will be explained using Figures 21 to 25. Figure 21 is a diagram showing an example of signal processing in the acoustic device 100, etc. according to the embodiment. The diagram shown in Figure 21(a) shows the phase control when the acoustic device 100 or the acoustic device 120 produces sound and vibration, or when the acoustic device 110 performs vibration. As shown in Figure 21(a), the first vibrator 10 and the second vibrator 20 are in phase.

[0122] For example, the output control unit 131 controls the sound pressure and excitation amount to adjust them. Specifically, the output control unit 131 controls the switching between excitation and sound generation, and the adjustment of sound pressure and excitation amount, by controlling the phase of the second exciter 20, or the phase and gain, using an APF (All Pass Filter) or FIR (Finite Impulse Response) filter, etc. Note that the output control unit 131 may also control the first exciter 10 instead of the second exciter 20, and it is sufficient to control either the first exciter 10 or the second exciter 20.

[0123] The diagram in Figure 21(b) shows the phase control when the sound device 100 or sound device 120 only performs vibration, or when the sound device 110 performs vibration. As shown in Figure 21(b), the output control unit 131 switches between sound production and vibration, or sound production only, or vibration only, by inverting the phase of the second vibrator 20 to reverse phase. Specifically, the output control unit 131 switches the positive and negative connections between the second vibrator 20 and the amplifier. Note that the vibrator whose phase is changed can be either of the two vibrators in the sound device 100, etc., and may also be the first vibrator 10.

[0124] Figure 22 shows an example of signal processing in the acoustic device 100 according to the embodiment. The diagram in Figure 22 shows how the acoustic device 100 controls the switching and adjustment of excitation and sound generation by changing the phase of the second exciter 20 using an APF or FIR filter. The exciter whose phase is changed can be either of the two exciters in the acoustic device 100, and may also be the first exciter 10. The APF or FIR filter adjusts the gain and phase.

[0125] For example, the output control unit 131 controls the phase to maximize the switching between excitation and sound generation for each frequency. Specifically, the output control unit 131 controls the phase for each frequency according to the diagram shown in Figure 20(d).

[0126] Figure 23 shows an example of adjusting the excitation and sound generation at each phase. For example, as shown in Figure 23, the output control unit 131 controls the phase at each frequency in order to continuously adjust the ratio of sound to excitation. When the phase of the second exciter 20 is 0° (in phase), the output control unit 131 controls the output so that the sound pressure (sound generation) is 3 and the vibration amount (excitation) is 0. On the other hand, when the phase of the second exciter 20 is 180° (out of phase), the output control unit 131 controls the output so that the sound pressure (sound generation) is 0 and the vibration amount (excitation) is 3.

[0127] Figure 24 shows an example of signal processing in the acoustic device 100 according to the embodiment. In Figure 24, in addition to controlling the phase of the second exciter 20 using an APF or FIR filter as shown in Figure 22, the gain is controlled to show the control of switching and adjusting between excitation and sound generation.

[0128] For example, the output control unit 131 adjusts the ratio of sound to excitation more smoothly and continuously by adjusting the gain and correcting device-specific nonlinearities using APF or FIR filters. The output control unit 131 also controls the sound pressure and excitation amount to be adjusted individually.

[0129] Figure 25 shows an example of signal processing by the acoustic device 100, etc., according to the embodiment. In the graph shown in Figure 25, the vertical axis represents gain, and the horizontal axis represents phase. When the sound pressure is fixed at 3, the amount of excitation changes as shown in "Change in amount of excitation when sound pressure is fixed at 3" in the figure.

[0130] The following explanation describes the change in excitation amount when the sound pressure is fixed at 3. The gain required to output a sound pressure of 3 is 3 when the phase is 0°. The excitation amount is 0 when the gain is 3 and the phase is 0°. Also, the gain required to output a sound pressure of 3 is 6 when the phase is 90°. The excitation amount is 3 when the gain is 6 and the phase is 90°. Also, the gain required to output a sound pressure of 3 is 9 when the phase is 120°. The excitation amount is 6 when the gain is 9 and the phase is 120°. In other words, the excitation amount and sound pressure change depending on the phase and gain.

[0131] (3. Other Embodiments) The processes according to each of the embodiments described above may be carried out in various other forms besides those described above.

[0132] Furthermore, among the processes described in each of the above embodiments, all or part of the processes described as being performed automatically can be performed manually, or all or part of the processes described as being performed manually can be performed automatically by known methods. In addition, the processing procedures, specific names, and information including various data and parameters shown in the above document and drawings can be changed at will unless otherwise specified. For example, the various information shown in each figure is not limited to the information shown.

[0133] Furthermore, the components of each illustrated device are functionally conceptual and do not necessarily need to be physically configured as shown. In other words, the specific forms of distribution and integration of each device are not limited to those shown, and all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit according to various loads and usage conditions.

[0134] Furthermore, the embodiments and modifications described above can be combined as appropriate, provided that the processing content is not inconsistent.

[0135] Furthermore, the effects described herein are merely illustrative and not limiting; other effects may also occur.

[0136] (4. Effects of the Acoustic Device According to the Disclosure) As described above, the acoustic device according to the Disclosure (acoustic device 100, acoustic device 110, and acoustic device 120 in the embodiments) comprises a first vibrator (first vibrator 10 in the embodiments), a second vibrator (second vibrator 20 in the embodiments), a first diaphragm (first diaphragm 30a in the embodiments), and a second diaphragm (second diaphragm 30b in the embodiments). The first vibrator also includes a first movable part (first movable part 11 in the embodiments) and a first drive unit (first drive unit 12 in the embodiments) connected to the first movable part. Furthermore, the second vibrator includes a second drive unit (in this embodiment, a second drive unit 22) that contacts the first drive unit on the opposite side of the direction in which the first drive unit connects to the first operating unit, and a second operating unit (in this embodiment, a second operating unit 21) that connects the second drive unit on the opposite side of the direction in which the second drive unit contacts the first drive unit. Furthermore, the first diaphragm is connected to the first operating unit on the opposite side of the direction in which the first operating unit connects to the first drive unit. Furthermore, the second diaphragm is connected to the second operating unit on the opposite side of the direction in which the second operating unit connects to the second drive unit. Furthermore, the first vibrator and the second vibrator vibrate the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm, or suppress the vibration of the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm, and vibrate the first drive unit and the second drive unit, based on switching control.

[0137] Thus, the acoustic device according to this disclosure can cancel out vibrations and produce sound using a first vibrator and a second vibrator arranged opposite each other. Furthermore, the acoustic device can cancel out sound and generate vibrations by vibrating the first drive unit and the second drive unit, or by vibrating the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm. Therefore, the acoustic device can output both vibration and sound simultaneously, or both vibration and sound.

[0138] Because the acoustic device can output both vibration and sound with a single unit, the number of devices can be reduced, thus lowering costs. In addition, compared to installing the exciter and speaker separately, the acoustic device can reduce the number of components in the mounting and protective structures.

[0139] Furthermore, the sound system can be installed even in locations where it is not possible to install the exciter and speaker separately. For example, the sound system can be installed in places with limited space, such as vehicle seats or seats used in entertainment venues like movie theaters. Therefore, the sound system can be flexibly installed to meet the needs and requirements of the user.

[0140] Furthermore, the first and second vibrators vibrate by pushing them using the first movable part in the direction toward the first vibrating plate and the second movable part in the direction toward the second vibrating plate, or by pushing them toward the other opposing vibrator.

[0141] Furthermore, the first and second vibrators vibrate when the first movable part pushes toward the first vibrating plate, the second movable part pushes toward the first vibrator, and when the first movable part pushes toward the second vibrator, the second movable part pushes toward the second vibrating plate.

[0142] Thus, the sound device can produce sound or vibration by vibrating the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm, or by vibrating the first drive unit and the second drive unit as a so-called moving magnet.

[0143] Furthermore, the acoustic device may include one or more sealing parts (in this embodiment, sealing part 40a, sealing part 40b, etc.) connecting the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm. The sealing parts may also be installed approximately in the center between the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm, symmetrically on either side of the first vibrator and the second vibrator.

[0144] In this way, the acoustic device can vibrate the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm through the sealing portion.

[0145] Furthermore, the acoustic device may also include base plates (in this embodiment, base plate 60, base plate 60a, base plate 60b, etc.) that penetrate approximately the center of the symmetrically installed sealing portions and connect to the first vibrator and the second vibrator via dampers located approximately in the center between the first vibrator and the second vibrator.

[0146] In this way, the acoustic device can transmit the vibrations of the first and second exciters to the object to be vibrated via the base plate. Furthermore, the acoustic device can output sound or vibration.

[0147] Furthermore, the system may include a vibration unit that connects the base plate to the object to be vibrated.

[0148] In this way, the acoustic device can vibrate an object that is to be vibrated via the vibration-generating part of the base plate.

[0149] The acoustic device may also include an excitation section (in this embodiment, excitation section 161a, excitation section 161b) that connects the first diaphragm to the object to be vibrated. Furthermore, it may also include a fixing section (in this embodiment, fixing section 162a, fixing section 162b) that fixes the second diaphragm to the object to be attached.

[0150] In this way, by connecting the first diaphragm to an object that is to be vibrated, the acoustic device can output sound and excitation, or excitation only.

[0151] Furthermore, the first drive unit and the second drive unit of the sound device may be connected via a connecting member (connecting member 954 in this embodiment).

[0152] In this way, by incorporating connecting members and other components, acoustic devices can be provided in shapes that suit the installation space and other factors.

[0153] Furthermore, the enclosure containing the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm may also include a bass reflex port. Furthermore, the enclosure containing the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm may also include a resonant tube. Furthermore, the enclosure containing the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm may also include a passive radiator.

[0154] Thus, the audio device can employ a structure that enhances the low-frequency range according to the user's needs.

[0155] The output control unit (in this embodiment, the output control unit 131) controls the output of the acoustic signal by adjusting the phase of the first vibrator and the second vibrator.

[0156] In this way, the sound device can control the output of sound and vibration by adjusting the phase.

[0157] The output control unit controls the sound pressure level and the excitation level. In this way, the sound device can output sound at any desired sound pressure level and excitation level according to the user's requirements by adjusting the sound pressure level and excitation level.

[0158] (5. Hardware Configuration) The information equipment such as the sound device 100 according to the embodiment described above is realized by a computer 1000 having a configuration such as that shown in Figure 26. The following explanation will use the sound device 100 according to the embodiment as an example. Figure 26 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer 1000 that realizes the functions of the sound device 100. The computer 1000 has a CPU 1100, RAM 1200, ROM (Read Only Memory) 1300, HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 1400, communication interface 1500, and input / output interface 1600. The various parts of the computer 1000 are connected by a bus 1050.

[0159] The CPU 1100 operates based on programs stored in the ROM 1300 or HDD 1400 and controls each part. For example, the CPU 1100 loads the programs stored in the ROM 1300 or HDD 1400 into the RAM 1200 and executes processing corresponding to various programs.

[0160] ROM 1300 stores boot programs such as the BIOS (Basic Input Output System) that are executed by the CPU 1100 when the computer 1000 starts up, as well as programs that depend on the computer 1000's hardware.

[0161] The HDD 1400 is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records programs executed by the CPU 1100 and data used by such programs. Specifically, the HDD 1400 is a recording medium that records a signal processing program according to this disclosure, which is an example of program data 1450.

[0162] The communication interface 1500 is an interface for the computer 1000 to connect to an external network 1550 (e.g., the Internet). For example, the CPU 1100 can receive data from other devices or transmit data it has generated to other devices via the communication interface 1500.

[0163] The input / output interface 1600 is an interface for connecting the input / output device 1650 and the computer 1000. For example, the CPU 1100 receives data from input devices such as a keyboard or mouse via the input / output interface 1600. The CPU 1100 also transmits data to output devices such as a display, speaker, or printer via the input / output interface 1600. The input / output interface 1600 may also function as a media interface for reading programs recorded on a predetermined recording medium (media). Examples of media include optical recording media such as DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs) and PDs (Phase Change Rewritable Disks), magneto-optical recording media such as MOs (Magneto-Optical Disks), tape media, magnetic recording media, or semiconductor memory.

[0164] For example, when the computer 1000 functions as an acoustic device 100 according to the embodiment, the CPU 1100 of the computer 1000 realizes functions such as the control unit 130 by executing a signal processing program loaded on the RAM 1200. The HDD 1400 stores data such as the signal processing program according to this disclosure. The CPU 1100 reads and executes the program data 1450 from the HDD 1400, but as an alternative example, these programs may be obtained from other devices via an external network 1550.

[0165] Furthermore, this technology can also be configured as follows. (1) A first vibrator including a first movable part and a first drive unit connected to the first movable part; a second vibrator including a second drive unit that contacts the first drive unit on the opposite side of the direction in which the first drive unit connects to the first movable part, and a second movable part that the second drive unit connects to the opposite side of the direction in which the second drive unit contacts the first drive unit; a first diaphragm that connects to the first movable part on the opposite side of the direction in which the first movable part connects to the first drive unit; and a second diaphragm that connects to the second movable part on the opposite side of the direction in which the second movable part connects to the second drive unit, wherein the first vibrator and the second vibrator vibrate the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm, or suppress the vibration of the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm, and vibrate the first drive unit and the second drive unit, based on switching control. Acoustic device. (2) The acoustic device according to (1), wherein the first vibrator and the second vibrator vibrate by an action of pushing them toward the first diaphragm using the first movable part and toward the second diaphragm using the second movable part, or by an action of pushing them toward the other opposing vibrator. (3) The acoustic device according to (1) or (2), wherein the first vibrator and the second vibrator vibrate by an action of pushing them toward the first vibrator when the first movable part pushes toward the first diaphragm, when the first movable part pushes toward the second vibrator, when the second movable part pushes toward the second diaphragm. (4) The acoustic device according to any one of (1) to (3), further comprising one or more sealing parts connecting the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm. (5) The acoustic device according to (4), wherein the sealing portion is located approximately in the center between the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm, and is installed symmetrically on either side of the first vibrator and the second vibrator.(6) The acoustic device according to (5), further comprising a base plate that penetrates the symmetrically installed sealing portions approximately in the center of each, and connects the first vibrator and the second vibrator via a damper that is approximately in the center between the first vibrator and the second vibrator and is in contact with the first vibrator and the second vibrator. (7) The acoustic device according to (6), further comprising an excitation portion that connects the base plate and an object that is to be vibrated. (8) The acoustic device according to any one of (1) to (7), further comprising an excitation portion that connects the first vibrator and an object that is to be vibrated. (9) The acoustic device according to any one of (1) to (8), further comprising a fixing portion that fixes the second vibrator and an object to be attached. (10) The acoustic device according to any one of (1) to (9), wherein the first drive unit and the second drive unit are in contact via a connecting member. (11) The acoustic device according to any one of (1) to (10), wherein the enclosure comprising the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm comprises a bass reflex port. (12) The acoustic device according to any one of (1) to (11), wherein the enclosure comprising the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm comprises a resonant tube. (13) The acoustic device according to any one of (1) to (12), wherein the enclosure comprising the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm comprises a passive radiator.(14) A computer that controls the operation of an acoustic device comprising: a first vibrator including a first movable part and a first drive unit connected to the first movable part; a second vibrator including a second drive unit that contacts the first drive unit on the opposite side of the direction in which the first drive unit connects to the first movable part, and a second movable part that the second drive unit connects to the opposite side of the direction in which the second drive unit contacts the first drive unit; a first diaphragm that connects to the first movable part on the opposite side of the direction in which the first movable part connects to the first drive unit; and a second diaphragm that connects to the second movable part on the opposite side of the direction in which the second movable part connects to the second drive unit; A signal processing method that controls the first vibrator and the second vibrator so as to be switchable between vibrating the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm, or suppressing the vibration of the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm and vibrating the first drive unit and the second drive unit. (15) A sound device comprising: a first vibrator including a first movable part and a first drive unit connected to the first movable part; a second vibrator including a second drive unit that contacts the first drive unit on the opposite side of the direction in which the first drive unit connects to the first movable part, and a second movable part that the second drive unit connects to the opposite side of the direction in which the second drive unit contacts the first drive unit; a first diaphragm that connects to the first movable part on the opposite side of the direction in which the first movable part connects to the first drive unit; and a second diaphragm that connects to the second movable part on the opposite side of the direction in which the second movable part connects to the second drive unit; (16) The acoustic system comprising a computer, which includes an output control unit that controls the first vibrator and the second vibrator to switch between vibrating the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm, or suppressing the vibration of the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm, and vibrating the first drive unit and the second drive unit. (17) The acoustic system according to (15) or (16), wherein the output control unit controls the output of an acoustic signal by adjusting the phase of the first vibrator and the second vibrator as control for switching the vibration.

[0166] 10 First vibrator 11 First moving part 12 First drive part 20 Second vibrator 21 Second moving part 22 Second drive part 30a First diaphragm 30b Second diaphragm 60, 60a, 60b Base plate 70a, 70b Dampers 100, 110, 120 Acoustic device 130 Control unit 131 Output control unit

Claims

1. A first vibrator including a first movable part and a first drive unit connected to the first movable part; a second vibrator including a second drive unit that contacts the first drive unit on the opposite side of the direction in which the first drive unit connects to the first movable part, and a second movable part connected to the opposite side of the direction in which the second drive unit contacts the first drive unit; a first diaphragm connected to the first movable part on the opposite side of the direction in which the first movable part connects to the first drive unit; and a second diaphragm connected to the second movable part on the opposite side of the direction in which the second movable part connects to the second drive unit, wherein the first vibrator and the second vibrator vibrate the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm, or suppress the vibration of the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm, and vibrate the first drive unit and the second drive unit, based on switching control. sound equipment.

2. The acoustic device according to claim 1, wherein the first vibrator and the second vibrator vibrate by an action of pushing them toward the first diaphragm using the first movable part and toward the second diaphragm using the second movable part, or by pushing them toward the other opposing vibrator.

3. The acoustic device according to claim 1, wherein the first vibrator and the second vibrator vibrate when the first movable part pushes toward the first diaphragm, the second movable part pushes toward the first vibrator, and when the first movable part pushes toward the second vibrator, the second movable part pushes toward the second diaphragm.

4. The acoustic device according to claim 1, further comprising one or more sealing portions connecting the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm.

5. The acoustic device according to claim 4, wherein the sealing portion is located approximately in the center between the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm, and is installed symmetrically on either side of the first vibrator and the second vibrator.

6. The acoustic device according to claim 5, further comprising a base plate that penetrates the symmetrically installed sealing portions approximately in the center of each portion and connects them via dampers that are approximately in the center between the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm and are in contact with the first vibrator and the second vibrator.

7. The acoustic device according to claim 6, further comprising an excitation section that connects the base plate to an object to be vibrated.

8. The acoustic device according to claim 1, further comprising an excitation unit that connects the first diaphragm to an object to be vibrated.

9. The acoustic device according to claim 1, further comprising a fixing part for fixing the second diaphragm and the object to be attached.

10. The acoustic device according to claim 1, wherein the first drive unit and the second drive unit are in contact via a connecting member.

11. The acoustic device according to claim 1, wherein the enclosure containing the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm includes a bass reflex port.

12. The acoustic device according to claim 1, wherein the enclosure containing the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm includes a resonant tube.

13. The acoustic device according to claim 1, wherein the enclosure containing the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm includes a passive radiator.

14. A computer that controls the operation of an acoustic device comprising: a first vibrator including a first movable part and a first drive unit connected to the first movable part; a second vibrator including a second drive unit that contacts the first drive unit on the opposite side of the direction in which the first drive unit connects to the first movable part, and a second movable part connected to the opposite side of the direction in which the second drive unit contacts the first drive unit; a first diaphragm that connects to the first movable part on the opposite side of the direction in which the first movable part connects to the first drive unit; and a second diaphragm that connects to the second movable part on the opposite side of the direction in which the second movable part connects to the second drive unit; A signal processing method that controls the first vibrator and the second vibrator so as to be switchable between vibrating the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm, or suppressing the vibration of the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm and vibrating the first drive unit and the second drive unit.

15. A sound device comprising: a first vibrator including a first movable part and a first drive unit connected to the first movable part; a second vibrator including a second drive unit that contacts the first drive unit on the opposite side of the direction in which the first drive unit connects to the first movable part, and a second movable part connected to the opposite side of the direction in which the second drive unit contacts the first drive unit; a first diaphragm that connects to the first movable part on the opposite side of the direction in which the first movable part connects to the first drive unit; and a second diaphragm that connects to the second movable part on the opposite side of the direction in which the second movable part connects to the second drive unit; An acoustic system comprising: a computer having an output control unit that controls the first vibrator and the second vibrator to either vibrate the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm, or to suppress the vibration of the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm and vibrate the first drive unit and the second drive unit, in a manner that allows switching between these two states.

16. The acoustic system according to claim 15, wherein the output control unit controls the output of the acoustic signal by adjusting the phase of the first vibrator and the second vibrator as control for switching vibrations.

17. The sound system according to claim 15, wherein the output control unit controls the sound pressure and the excitation amount to adjust them.

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