Flexible Substrate Speaker with Dynamic Beamforming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable devices with integrated speakers face challenges in producing sufficient loudness and sound quality, especially in noisy environments, and require innovative solutions to enhance audio output and control mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A flexible substrate-based apparatus with adjustable transducers and sensors that can change configuration to optimize audio output, using materials like carbon nanotube networks and graphene ribbons to create a stretchable and bendable device that adjusts sound direction and volume based on orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid speaker structure is used, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability to different orientations and configurations is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The speaker system transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic flexible structure that can change its configuration. The flexible substrate allows the speaker to adapt its shape and orientation to match different device configurations, while the control system dynamically adjusts beamforming parameters based on the detected configuration to maintain optimal audio performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a flexible substrate as the base material for the speaker assembly, replacing traditional rigid housings. This flexible film structure enables the speaker to bend and conform to different device orientations without compromising structural integrity, directly resolving the contradiction between rigidity and adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the speaker structure is made flexible and bendable, then adaptability to different configurations is improved, but structural stability is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that detect the flexible substrate's configuration and orientation, feeding this information back to the control system. The control system then adjusts beamforming parameters in real-time based on the detected configuration, maintaining audio performance stability despite structural flexibility and configuration changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the speaker system dynamically based on configuration. By adjusting beamforming weights, delay parameters, and signal processing characteristics according to the detected flexible substrate configuration, the system maintains stable audio output performance across different flexible states.
3Manufacturing precision
If beamforming control is implemented, then sound directionality and quality are improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The control system performs multiple functions: detecting sensor inputs, determining device configuration, calculating beamforming parameters, and controlling audio output. By integrating these functions into a single multi-functional control system, the patent reduces overall device complexity while maintaining sophisticated beamforming capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically detects its own configuration through integrated sensors and self-adjusts beamforming parameters without external intervention. This self-service capability eliminates the need for manual configuration or complex external control systems, simplifying the overall device architecture while maintaining precise sound directionality.
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 enhances sound quality and loudness by allowing the device to adapt its audio output based on configuration and orientation, providing improved audio performance in various environments and use cases.
Implementation Method 1
at least one transducer located within the flexible substrate, the at least one transducer configured to actuate a surface of the apparatus to produce at least one output signal
Implementation Method 2
The at least one transducer may be configured to actuate the flexible substrate so as to transmit the movement of the at least one transducer to the apparatus surface wherein the air in contact with the apparatus surface is actuated for generating acoustic waves
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus comprising: a flexible substrate configured to operate in a first configuration and a second configuration; and at least one transducer located within the flexible substrate, the at least one transducer configured to actuate a surface of the apparatus to produce at least one output signal, wherein the flexible substrate affects the at least one output signal based on the first and second configurations.