Acoustic Module Assembly for Sound Absorption and Flexible Room Division

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing acoustic arrangements for open floor plans face challenges in flexible sound absorption and room division, often requiring numerous elements and compromising the open design.

Innovation Solution

Acoustic modules suspended vertically from a support structure can be used as room dividers, with modular design allowing flexible arrangement and sound absorption, and can be combined horizontally and vertically to adapt to spatial and acoustic requirements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If movable partition walls are used for sound absorption and room division, then sound absorption is improved, but flexibility of positioning deteriorates because they are tied to predefined rails

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesound absorptionVSAvoidflexibility of positioning
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The partition system is divided into multiple individual acoustic modules that can be independently positioned and arranged, rather than being constrained to fixed rails. Each module functions as a separate sound-absorbing element that can be flexibly configured.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The acoustic modules are suspended vertically from the ceiling, utilizing the vertical dimension for sound absorption while maintaining horizontal flexibility for room division. This vertical suspension allows positioning anywhere within the room rather than being confined to rail systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If a large number of individual acoustic elements are arranged for sound absorption, then sound absorption is improved, but installation effort and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesound absorptionVSAvoidinstallation effort
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple acoustic modules are connected to each other through connection elements, forming integrated assemblies. This merging reduces installation effort compared to handling numerous separate elements, while maintaining effective sound absorption through the combined structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The acoustic modules are designed as universal, standardized units that can be arranged in various configurations and connected through standardized connection elements. This multi-functionality allows the same module design to serve different spatial and acoustic requirements without increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If individual acoustic elements are used for sound absorption, then sound absorption is improved, but the ability to divide large volumes into interconnected spaces deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesound absorptionVSAvoidroom division capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The space division function is achieved through segmented acoustic modules that can be arranged to create visual and acoustic separation while maintaining open connections. These modules divide large volumes into interconnected zones without creating enclosed spaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The acoustic modules serve dual functions: sound absorption and room division. The same elements that absorb sound also create visual separation and define spatial zones, eliminating the need for separate partition systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution maintains spaciousness while effectively absorbing sound, allowing flexible room division and acoustic adaptation to specific needs.

Implementation Method 1

Sound absorption converts sound energy into inaudible vibration energy, thus reducing the reflection of sound energy from a surface. Elements with open pores and a large internal surface area have proven particularly advantageous in this regard.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSound absorption: Acoustic Absorption

Data Source

PatentEP3680409B1Acoustic assembly
Publication Date: 2025.08.20 EICHHORN VERW GMBH
  • EP3680409B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3680409B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2b

AI summary

The invention relates to an acoustic arrangement for sound absorption, comprising at least two sound-absorbing acoustic modules (2), wherein each acoustic module (2) has a front side (3) and a back side (4) which are connected to each other around their narrow sides (5), wherein at least one fixed connection (6), preferably at least two fixed connections (6), is provided on each narrow side (5), and comprising a first holding device (7) for attaching at least one acoustic module (2), wherein a first acoustic module (2) can be attached to the first holding device (7) via the at least one fixed connection (6) of a narrow side (5) by means of a fastening device (8) and hangs down from the first holding device (7) in a vertical orientation when attached.It is proposed that one of the narrow sides (5) of the first acoustic module (2) facing away from the first holding device (7) and one narrow side (5) of at least one further acoustic module (2) are arranged opposite each other and spaced apart from each other in the assembled state, and that the first acoustic module (2) and the respective further acoustic module (2) can be connected to each other via the connections (6) of the opposite narrow sides (5) by means of a fastening device (8).