Line-Array Speaker Setup Using NFC Parameter Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Professional audio systems face challenges in configuring sound diffusers on stages due to the need for manual adjustment from elevated positions, which is inconvenient and prone to malfunctions from adverse weather, and centralized control systems are costly and require technical expertise.
Innovation Solution
An audio system with wireless communication units using NFC or infrared technology allows for remote parameter adjustment of diffusers, enabling setup without power supply and expert intervention, utilizing a portable device with a graphical interface to guide parameter entry and ensure correct sequencing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual adjustment of diffusers is performed from elevated positions using ladders, then parameter setting capability is achieved, but operator safety and convenience deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A portable control device serves as an intermediary between the operator and the suspended diffusers. The operator controls the diffusers from ground level through wireless communication, eliminating the need to physically access elevated positions while maintaining full parameter adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical approach of physically accessing diffusers via ladders is replaced with wireless electronic control. The control device communicates with diffusers through wireless signals, substituting mechanical intervention with electronic mediation.
2Ease of operation
If centralized control systems are implemented, then parameter adjustment capability is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control function is segmented and distributed to individual diffusers rather than requiring a centralized control system. Each diffuser contains its own control unit that can be independently adjusted via wireless communication from the portable device.
Solution Approach 2:
Physical wiring connections are replaced with wireless communication technology. The portable control device communicates with diffusers through wireless signals, eliminating the need for complex wiring infrastructure while maintaining control capability.
3Ease of operation
If panels are exposed to outdoor environments, then accessibility is improved, but susceptibility to weather damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The portable control device acts as an intermediary that allows operators to configure diffusers from protected positions away from adverse weather conditions. The wireless transmission medium is unaffected by weather, enabling reliable control regardless of environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The control function is extracted from the diffusers themselves and placed in a portable device that can be used independently. This separates the control interface from the audio equipment, allowing configuration from any location without exposing control panels to weather.
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
Enables convenient, weather-resistant, and cost-effective setup of audio devices with accurate parameter adjustment, matching sound distribution to space and audience, comparable to high-end systems but without the need for complex wiring or expert personnel.
Implementation Method 1
Each audio device 10, 11 includes a first communication unit designed for a wireless communication subject to spatial constraints... The second communication unit is configured to allow the transfer to said first communication unit of one or more adjustment parameters
Implementation Method 2
The expression 'wireless communication subject to spatial constraints' means a 'wireless' data transmission method that is limited in the propagation into the surrounding environment by spatial restrictions. For example, the invention may use a communication technology subject to constraints relative to distance, in particular maximum range, such as NFC technology or other near-field communication technologies. It should be noted that NFC technology has the advantage over Bluetooth technology that it can be used even without a power supply, as well as allowing a more secure communication.
Data Source
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AI summary
Described is an audio system comprising a system for sound amplification and diffusion (1) in turn comprising a plurality of devices (10, 11) for sound amplification and diffusion, wherein diffusion devices emit sound (speakers), each of which includes: a first control unit set up for adjusting the diffusion of the sound on the basis of one or more adjustment parameters; a memory unit associated with the first control unit configured for recording the adjustment parameters; and a first communication unit designed for a wireless communication subject to spatial constraints, and configured for recording data on the memory unit. The audio system further comprises a portable device, such as a smartphone, comprising a second communication unit and designed for a wireless communication subject to spatial constraints (NFC) and configured to allow the transfer to the first communication unit of one or more adjustment parameters. The second communication unit is associated with a second control unit configured to allow the user to set the adjustment parameters in each of the devices (10, 11) following a predetermined sequence. Optionally, the user can input speaker and audience arrangement on the smartphone which the smartphone translates into corresponding DSP parameters.