Flat Panel Loudspeaker with Segmented Diaphragm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cone speakers in vehicles require significant space, project sound at a narrow angle, and necessitate cutting holes in panels, while alternative flat panel speakers like electrostatic and EMI speakers are fragile, directional, and heavy, making them unsuitable for aircraft cabins.
Innovation Solution
A flat panel loudspeaker system with a core panel having a weakened area defined by slots in the outer sheet, where an exciter is attached to vibrate the panel to generate sound energy, minimizing space usage and avoiding the need for panel holes, using lightweight and durable materials like fiberglass and carbon fiber.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If cone speakers are used, then sound can be projected, but they take up valuable space above the ceiling panel and require cutting holes through the panel
Solution Approach 1:
The speaker system is segmented into a flat panel configuration where the diaphragm is divided into multiple vibration zones (central zone and peripheral zones) that can be excited independently or collectively, allowing the speaker to be mounted flush with the panel surface without requiring holes or protruding components
Solution Approach 2:
The speaker transitions from a three-dimensional cone structure to a two-dimensional flat panel structure, eliminating the need for vertical space above the ceiling and allowing flush mounting that does not require cutting holes through the panel
2Ease of operation
If cone speakers are used, then sound can be projected, but they project sound at a relatively narrow dispersion angle requiring many speakers to cover the entire passenger cabin area
Solution Approach 1:
The flat panel diaphragm is segmented into multiple vibration zones (central and peripheral zones) that can be excited in different patterns to achieve wide dispersion sound coverage, allowing a single speaker to cover areas that would otherwise require multiple cone speakers
Solution Approach 2:
The speaker system dynamically controls vibration patterns across different zones of the flat panel, adjusting the vibration characteristics to optimize sound dispersion patterns and coverage area as needed
3Shape
If electrostatic speakers are used, then they are flat panel speakers, but they require high voltage and heavy metal core transformers making them undesirable for aircraft cabin use
Solution Approach 1:
The speaker system replaces the electrostatic high-voltage electromagnetic field generation mechanism with a direct mechanical vibration excitation system, eliminating the need for heavy metal core transformers and high-voltage power supplies while maintaining the flat panel structure
Solution Approach 2:
The speaker system changes the operating parameters from high-voltage electrostatic fields to mechanical vibration excitation, fundamentally altering the energy input method to reduce weight while preserving the flat panel form factor
4Shape
If EMI speakers are used, then they are flat panel speakers, but they require a relatively heavy magnetic bar adding weight to the aircraft
Solution Approach 1:
The speaker system replaces the electromagnetic induction mechanism requiring heavy magnetic bars with a direct mechanical vibration excitation system, eliminating the heavy magnetic components while maintaining the flat panel structure
Solution Approach 2:
The heavy magnetic bar component is extracted and removed from the speaker system, replacing it with a lighter mechanical excitation mechanism that achieves the same sound projection function without the weight penalty
5Shape
If electrostatic or EMI speakers are used, then they are flat panel speakers, but the diaphragm is too fragile for use in aircraft cabin due to pressure changes during flight
Solution Approach 1:
The diaphragm material properties are changed from thin and soft (electrostatic) or printed/wired coil (EMI) to thick, stiff, and durable materials that can withstand aircraft cabin pressure changes while maintaining the flat panel structure
Solution Approach 2:
The diaphragm is constructed from composite materials that combine stiffness and durability to withstand pressure changes, such as fiberglass-reinforced plastics or other composite structures, replacing the fragile materials used in electrostatic and EMI speakers
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 wider sound projection with reduced space and weight, and is robust enough for aircraft environments, overcoming the limitations of traditional cone speakers and other flat panel technologies.
Implementation Method 1
an exciter attached to the panel at the weakened area and configured to vibrate the panel to generate sound energy
Implementation Method 2
the panel having a weakened area defined by at least one slot formed through the outer sheet
Data Source
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AI summary
A flat panel loudspeaker system may include a panel having a core, an inner sheet coupled to an inner surface of the core and an outer sheet coupled to an outer surface of the core, the panel having a weakened area defined by at least one slot formed through the outer sheet, and an exciter that is detachable for replacement purposes, is attached to the panel at the weakened area and configured to vibrate the panel to generate sound energy.