Fabric Layer Acoustic Resonator for Broadband Absorption

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sound absorbing devices using acoustic resonators are cost and structurally prohibitive for broadband acoustic absorption, as they are designed for specific frequency ranges and require multiple resonators of different sizes.

Innovation Solution

A sound absorbing device with a chamber and at least one fabric layer extending across the opening, where the fabric layers are configured to move relative to each other, adjusting the range of acoustic frequencies absorbed, and can include multiple fabric layers with varying pore sizes and elasticity to enhance acoustic absorption across a broader frequency range.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple acoustic resonators of different sizes are used for broadband acoustic absorption, then the frequency absorption range is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency absorption rangeVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple fabric layers with different pore sizes into a single integrated structure that covers the opening of a single acoustic resonator chamber. This merging approach allows the system to absorb multiple frequency ranges simultaneously without requiring multiple separate resonators, thereby reducing structural complexity while maintaining broadband absorption capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The fabric layers serve multiple functions: they act as acoustic absorption elements, provide frequency tuning mechanisms, and can be configured in various arrangements (stacked contact, spaced apart, elastic) to address different acoustic requirements. This multi-functionality allows a single resonator structure to handle broadband absorption that would traditionally require multiple specialized resonators.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple acoustic resonators of different sizes are used for broadband acoustic absorption, then the frequency absorption range is improved, but the cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency absorption rangeVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the function of multiple resonators into a single chamber by placing multiple fabric layers over its opening. This reduces the number of separate components that need to be manufactured and assembled, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while achieving broadband absorption across multiple frequency ranges.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent achieves frequency range adjustment by changing the parameters of the fabric layers (pore size, material composition, spacing, elasticity) rather than changing the physical size of multiple resonator chambers. This parameter-based tuning is more cost-effective as it involves modifying properties of existing components rather than manufacturing additional resonators of different dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If fabric layers are configured to move relative to each other for adjustable frequency absorption, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefrequency adjustment capabilityVSAvoidfabric configuration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates movable fabric layers that can change their relative positions or configurations to dynamically adjust the acoustic absorption characteristics. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to different frequency requirements without requiring complex mechanical actuation systems, as the movement can be achieved through simple elastic deformation or repositioning of the fabric layers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 device effectively absorbs a broad range of acoustic frequencies by converting acoustic energy into heat, offering a cost-effective and efficient solution compared to traditional acoustic resonators, with adjustable fabric configurations to optimize absorption characteristics.

Implementation Method 1

The at least one fabric layer extending across the opening is at least one of at least two fabric layers stacked relative to and in direct contact with each other, at least two fabric layers stacked relative to and spaced apart from each other by a predefined distance, at least one elastic fabric layer configured to vibrate independently from the chamber, and a three dimensional fabric layer with pores having a depth to diameter ratio of at least 100:1

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectViscous dissipation: Viscous Heating

Implementation Method 2

at least one elastic fabric layer configured to vibrate independently from the chamber

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectResonance: Resonance

Implementation Method 3

Acoustic resonators, e.g., Helmholtz resonators and quarter-wave tubes, are used for acoustic absorption of specific frequency ranges

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHelmholtz resonance: Helmholtz Resonance

Data Source

PatentUS20230419938A1Sound absorbing devices and acoustic resonators decorated with fabric
Publication Date: 2023.12.28 TOYOTA MOTOR ENG & MFG NORTH AMERICA INC
  • US20230419938A1 patent drawing
  • US20230419938A1 patent drawing
  • US20230419938A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A sound absorbing device includes a chamber with an opening and at least one fabric layer extending across the opening. The at least one fabric layer extending across the opening is at least two fabric layers stacked relative to and in direct contact with each other, at least two fabric layers stacked relative to and spaced apart from each other by a predefined distance, at least one elastic fabric layer configured to vibrate independently from the chamber, or a three dimensional fabric layer. The at least two fabric layers stacked relative to and in direct contact with each other and the at least two fabric layers stacked relative to and spaced apart from each other by a predefined distance are configured to move relative to each other, and the at least one elastic fabric layer is configured to vibrate independently from the chamber.