Body-Worn Vibration System for Low-Frequency Audio Perception
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multimedia systems face challenges in providing effective low-frequency sound reproduction without compromising user comfort or causing distractions, especially in portable and affordable formats, as traditional speakers are either too small or too large, and methods like vibrating chairs are uncomfortable and expensive, with low-frequency sound penetrating walls and disturbing neighbors.
Innovation Solution
A vibration system that applies vibrations to specific locations on the body, such as the pectoralis major muscle, using vibrators and support structures like curved harnesses and stretchable bands, in conjunction with audio speakers and signal processors, to enhance the perception of audio content, including low-frequency sounds, while being portable and inexpensive.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If traditional speakers are used to generate low frequency sound, then sound quality is improved, but the speakers become too large and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the human body as an intermediary medium to transmit and perceive low frequency vibrations. Instead of using large speakers to generate sound waves in air, the system uses small vibrators to directly stimulate the body, which then acts as a resonating medium to distribute the vibrations throughout the user's body, effectively replacing the need for large traditional speakers
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional acoustic mechanical system (large speakers moving air to create sound waves) with a direct mechanical vibration system (small vibrators applying force directly to the body). This substitution eliminates the need for large speaker enclosures while maintaining the ability to produce and perceive low frequency effects
2Illumination intensity
If vibrations are applied to the head of the user to compensate for low frequency sound, then perception of bass is improved, but headaches are caused
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies vibrations to specific localized areas of the body (chest, back, arms, legs) rather than the head, choosing locations that are less sensitive and better suited for withstanding prolonged vibration exposure. The pectoralis major muscle and other muscular areas are identified as optimal locations that can handle vibration without causing discomfort or harm
3Illumination intensity
If large woofers are used in home theatre systems to produce bass, then low frequency sound quality is improved, but the sound penetrates walls and disturbs neighbors
Solution Approach 1:
The human body serves as a private intermediary medium that contains and distributes the low frequency vibrations internally. The vibrations are transmitted through the user's body tissues and bones, creating a personal auditory experience that does not radiate outward to disturb others, unlike traditional speakers that project sound waves into the surrounding environment
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful acoustic radiation component is extracted and eliminated from the system. Instead of generating sound waves that propagate through air and walls, the system extracts only the essential vibration generation function and applies it directly to the user's body, separating the useful effect (personal bass perception) from the harmful effect (neighbor disturbance)
4Illumination intensity
If vibrations are applied to the posterior side of the user to provide bass, then perception of low frequency sound is improved, but the impression is given that sound originates from behind the user
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric vibration placement strategies where vibrators are positioned on both the front and back of the body in unequal distributions. By placing more vibrators on the front of the body (chest, abdomen) than on the back, the system creates a directional imbalance that cues the user's brain to perceive sound as originating from the front, compensating for the natural tendency to locate vibrations at the point of contact
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 system provides an immersive audio experience by synchronizing tactile sensations with audio data, improving user interaction and comfort, and reducing noise disturbance for neighbors by directing bass vibrations to the body, thus enhancing the perception of multimedia content without the drawbacks of traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
a vibrator capable of converting an electrical signal into a vibration
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for applying vibration to the human body. A vibration system includes a vibrator capable of converting an electrical signal into vibration. In one aspect, the vibrator is arranged on or about the human body on a pectoralis major muscle and spaced away from a sternum. In another aspect, the vibrator is arranged on or about the human body such that a first pattern of vibrations are generated on the body's surface. The first pattern of vibrations matches in relative amplitude a second pattern of vibrations generated on the body's surface when the body generates sound.