Conformable Adaptors for Speaker Diffraction Slots
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current speaker systems face challenges in achieving a smooth frequency response due to cavity resonance frequencies that fall within the usable passband of drivers, leading to reduced acoustic output and potential voice coil rubbing.
Innovation Solution
A cover is designed to partially extend over the diaphragm of low-frequency drivers, adjusting the cavity resonance frequency outside the passband, and an adaptable semi-flexible material is used to conform to various profiles, allowing for customization and a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a cover extends over the diaphragm to adjust cavity resonance frequency, then the frequency response becomes smooth and acoustic output is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible cover that can extend over the diaphragm to adjust cavity resonance frequency. The flexible material allows the cover to conform to the diaphragm surface while maintaining the ability to tune the acoustic cavity, thus improving frequency response without requiring rigid, complex structural modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The extent to which the cover extends over the diaphragm is configured as a adjustable parameter to achieve target cavity resonance frequencies. By varying the coverage area (configured to extend over no more than one third of the cross-sectional area), the system can tune the resonance frequency above the passband cutoff, smoothing the frequency response without fixed complex structures.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the adaptor is made rigid to maintain structural stability, then the seal between acoustic horn and passages is reliable, but the adaptor cannot conform to convex curvature profiles
Solution Approach 1:
The adaptor is constructed from semi-flexible material that can conform to convex curvature profiles of the acoustic horn opening while maintaining structural integrity. The semi-flexible nature allows the adaptor to bend and adapt to different geometries without compromising the seal between the acoustic horn and the manifold passages.
Solution Approach 2:
The adaptor combines rigid and flexible properties through composite construction or semi-flexible materials that provide both structural stability and conformability. This allows the adaptor to maintain reliable sealing while adapting to the convex curvature of the opening, resolving the contradiction between rigidity and adaptability.
3Productivity
If the speaker system uses a compact design, then the venue coverage efficiency is improved, but the radiation pattern control becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The acoustic horn and adaptor assembly is designed with locally optimized features that control the radiation pattern at specific regions. The horn geometry and adaptor configuration are tailored to direct sound energy in desired directions, enabling effective venue coverage from a compact speaker position without requiring complex active control systems.
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
This configuration enhances the acoustic output by moving the cavity resonance frequency out of the passband, providing a mechanically compact design and improved radiation pattern control while preventing voice coil rubbing.
Implementation Method 1
The adaptor can be constructed of a semi-flexible material... configured to conform to a profile of the opening while maintaining a seal between the acoustic horn and the plurality of acoustic passages
Implementation Method 2
The seal can define an acoustic volume for another set of one or more drivers... the adaptor configured to isolate the acoustic output of the one or more high-frequency drivers from an acoustic output of the low-frequency drivers
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3D
AI summary
The technology described in the document can be embodied in a speaker that includes one or more drivers, and an acoustic horn that includes a first side panel and a second side panel. Edges of the first and second side panels defines an opening for receiving acoustic outputs from one or more drivers. The speaker also includes a manifold disposed between the opening and the one or more drivers, the manifold including a plurality of acoustic passages for connecting the opening to each of the one or more drivers, and an adaptor. The adaptor is disposed between the manifold and the acoustic horn, and includes multiple apertures for the plurality of acoustic passages. The adaptor is configured to conform to a profile of the opening while maintaining a seal between the acoustic horn and the plurality of acoustic passages.