Keyboard Instrument Speaker Redirection via Frame Gaps
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronic keyboard instruments face challenges in reducing size and weight due to the large bulk of electronic circuit substrates and electroacoustic transducers, particularly the speaker unit, which also limits the extension of the output frequency range and requires a cabinet-type design.
Innovation Solution
The electronic keyboard instrument incorporates an electroacoustic transducer accommodated in the space between the keyboard and the lower case, with sound waves radiated through gaps in the frame member and between keys, allowing for a compact design without the need for additional mounting cases, and can be applied to desk-type instruments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If the speaker unit is mounted at the rear portion of the keyboard, then the sound can be emitted, but the size and weight of the instrument increase
Solution Approach 1:
The speaker unit is repositioned from the traditional rear mounting location to the space between the keyboard and lower case (vertical dimension change). This spatial reconfiguration allows sound to be emitted through gaps in the frame member and between keys, achieving natural sound propagation without increasing instrument weight or requiring additional mounting space.
2Volume of moving object
If the speaker unit size is reduced, then the instrument size can be reduced, but the output frequency band cannot be extended to lower frequencies
Solution Approach 1:
The sound emission function is segmented across multiple pathways: the speaker unit emits sound that propagates through gaps in the frame member and between individual keys. This segmentation allows a compact speaker to achieve effective sound distribution across the keyboard area, maintaining frequency response without requiring a large speaker enclosure.
Solution Approach 2:
The gaps between keys and frame member, originally structural necessities, are utilized as sound emission pathways. This multi-functional use of existing structural elements allows the compact speaker unit to effectively radiate sound across the frequency range without requiring additional components or increased size.
3Volume of moving object
If the speaker unit is mounted with front opening directed downward, then the instrument size can be reduced, but sound is not spread well when placed on a desk
Solution Approach 1:
Sound emission is redirected from downward propagation (through bottom surface) to forward propagation (through gaps in frame member and between keys toward the player). This dimensional change in sound radiation direction improves sound spread quality when the instrument is placed on a desk, while maintaining the compact form factor.
4Reliability
If a cabinet type design with sound emitting space below speaker is used, then sound can be spread well, but the instrument has large size
Solution Approach 1:
The sound emission function is merged with the existing keyboard structure. The gaps between keys and frame member, which are inherent to the keyboard design, are utilized as sound pathways. This integration eliminates the need for separate sound emitting spaces or cabinet-type enclosures, achieving good sound spread within a compact form factor.
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 enables a smaller, more compact electronic keyboard instrument that maintains natural sound quality and can be designed for various types, including desk and console types, while reducing the overall height and weight.
Implementation Method 1
an electroacoustic transducer which is accommodated in a space between the keyboard and a bottom plate of the lower case, and which outputs an acoustic wave
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic keyboard instrument is assembled on a frame member. A keyboard has a plurality of keys pivotably supported by the frame member. A lower case is formed integrally with or separately from the frame member under the keyboard. An electroacoustic transducer is accommodated in a space between the keyboard and a bottom plate of the lower case, and outputs an acoustic wave. The acoustic wave outputted from the electroacoustic transducer is radiated outwardly through sound passages configured as gaps in the frame member and gaps between the plurality of the keys.