Dual In-Plane Speaker Drivers With Frequency-Dependent Muting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Broadband speaker systems with dual, in-plane drivers experience destructive interference due to phase discontinuity, leading to muted or accentuated audio signals at certain frequencies, and existing solutions have had limited success in mitigating this interference without compromising the speaker configuration.
Innovation Solution
A frequency-dependent shunting network is applied to one driver to gradually mute it as a specific frequency is approached, while increasing power to the other driver proportionally, preventing noticeable interference and maintaining sound quality across the frequency range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If dual, spaced-apart, in-plane drivers are used to broaden frequency range, then frequency coverage is improved, but destructive interference and phase discontinuity occur causing muted or accentuated audio signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamic frequency-dependent muting to one driver based on the commanded frequency. As the commanded frequency approaches the natural resonance frequency, the system gradually mutes that driver while increasing power to the other driver, preventing phase discontinuity and destructive interference while maintaining broad frequency coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the electrical parameters (power distribution) to the drivers based on the commanded frequency parameter. By dynamically adjusting the power level to each driver according to the frequency being commanded, the system prevents the acoustic interference that would otherwise occur with dual spaced drivers
2Object-affected harmful factors
If frequency-dependent muting is applied to one driver, then interference is reduced, but the transition may be discernable to the listener
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements gradual, dynamic muting rather than abrupt switching. The power to the first driver is reduced progressively as the commanded frequency approaches the natural resonance frequency, while power to the second driver increases proportionally, creating a smooth transition that is inaudible to listeners
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the commanded frequency signal to dynamically adjust the power distribution to each driver. This closed-loop control ensures the muting transition occurs smoothly and proportionally, maintaining perceptual continuity while eliminating interference
3Object-affected harmful factors
If more than two drivers are used with angular positioning, then interference is reduced, but device complexity and aesthetic appeal are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains the simple dual-driver configuration but changes the electrical parameters (power distribution) dynamically based on frequency. This approach achieves interference reduction without adding more drivers or changing the physical geometry, preserving both aesthetic appeal and device simplicity
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 results in superior sound quality throughout the entire frequency range, reducing interference between dual, in-plane drivers and maintaining an aesthetically pleasing design suitable for applications like computer speakers.
Implementation Method 1
A frequency dependent shunting network is applied to one of the drivers so as to gradually mute the one driver as a desired frequency is approached. The frequency dependent shunting network also serves to gradually increase the power provided to the other driver.
Data Source
AI summary
A speaker that includes a pair of spaced-apart, in-plane mounted drivers connected in series to a network for applying the appropriate frequency component of the electrical input drive signal to each of the drivers is disclosed. A frequency dependent shunting network, such as a low pass filter, is applied to one of the drivers so as to gradually mute the one driver as a desired frequency is approached. The result is an aesthetically pleasing speaker that has dual in-plane drivers and that produces superior sound quality throughout the entire frequency range of the speaker, including those ranges in which dual, in plane, drivers tend to acoustically interfere with each other.