Loudspeaker Box Latching Mechanism for Angle-Adjustable Line Arrays

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fastening systems for line arrays of loudspeaker boxes are complex and prone to accidents during assembly and disassembly, as they require inserting or removing locking bolts under load, and lack the ability to preselect intermediate angles without additional fastening elements or assembly steps.

Innovation Solution

A latching connection with a pivotable latching hook and holding element, featuring a grid of holes for secure locking and shear force absorption, allows for automatic connection formation under load and preselection of angular positions, reducing assembly time and accident risk.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If locking bolts are used to connect loudspeaker boxes, then secure cohesion under high loads is achieved, but assembly and disassembly become complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecohesion strengthVSAvoidassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The connection system is divided into two functional parts: locking bolts for securing cohesion under load, and a latching mechanism for rapid engagement/disengagement. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its function, enabling strong connections without requiring complex bolt operations during assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The latching mechanism performs preliminary action by automatically engaging and securing the connection before the locking bolts are fully tightened. This preliminary latching ensures proper alignment and initial cohesion, making the subsequent bolt tightening simpler and faster.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If locking bolts are used for connection, then secure fastening is achieved, but assembly becomes prone to accidents under load

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefastening securityVSAvoidassembly safety
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The latching mechanism is designed to automatically engage and lock the connection without requiring manual intervention under load. The mechanism self-secures the loudspeaker boxes together, eliminating the dangerous operation of inserting or removing bolts while the system is under tension or weight.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The latching mechanism performs the secure fastening action before the system is fully loaded or suspended. By establishing the connection in a safe, ground-based state, the system eliminates the risk of accidents that would occur if bolt operations were performed under load.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If intermediate angle adjustment is implemented, then sound level distribution variability is achieved, but additional fastening elements and assembly steps are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveangle adjustabilityVSAvoidfastening system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The latching mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides secure mechanical connection, enables intermediate angle adjustment through its geometric design, and eliminates the need for separate stopping mechanisms. The same latching structure that secures the connection also defines the intermediate angle, reducing overall system complexity.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The functions of angle definition and mechanical fastening are merged into a single latching mechanism. Instead of having separate components for angle control and connection security, the latching geometry inherently provides both functions, simplifying the overall fastening system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP1725068B1Snap-fit connection for an assembly of loudspeaker boxes
Publication Date: 2011.12.07 D&B AUDIOTECHNIK GMBH
  • EP1725068B1 patent drawingFigure 1~7
  • EP1725068B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP1725068B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

A latch connector (25,26) is used to lock together two adjacent loudspeaker enclosures (2). The latch connector is designed so that the loudspeaker enclosures are joined together at a preset angle. The fixture may include a profile part (20) comprising matrix of holes, into which a locking pin can be inserted. Independent claims are included for an arrangement of several loudspeaker enclosures suspended one below the other, and for a method of forming the arrangement.