Magnetic Amplifier-to-Speaker Coupling for Stable Stacked Audio

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing audio amplifier and speaker systems lack a securing mechanism when stacked, leading to instability and potential damage due to accidental bumps or dislodging caused by cable pull, resulting in the amplifier falling off the speaker.

Innovation Solution

A magnetic coupler system is implemented, using magnetically charged feet and receptacles on the audio amplifier and speaker to securely attach the components, providing stability and alignment while eliminating the need for external electrical cables.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the audio amplifier is stacked on the speaker without a securing mechanism, then the setup is simple and requires no additional components, but the amplifier can be dislodged by bumps or cable pull causing damage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecuring mechanismVSAvoidstability of amplifier on speaker
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical securing mechanisms (screws, clips, latches) with a magnetic coupling system. The magnetic coupler uses magnetic attraction forces to hold the amplifier securely on the speaker surface, eliminating the need for complex mechanical fastening structures while providing reliable retention against bumps and cable pull forces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If a magnetic coupler is used to secure the amplifier to the speaker, then the stability and security are improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional securing components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity of amplifier on speakerVSAvoidsecuring mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic coupler serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides secure retention of the amplifier on the speaker, enables easy attachment and detachment, and can incorporate alignment features. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate securing components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while maximizing reliability benefits.

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

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 magnetic coupler system effectively secures the audio amplifier to the speaker, preventing dislodging and damage, while allowing for secure electrical connections within the components, enhancing system stability and reducing cable clutter.

Implementation Method 1

The audio amplifier and speaker may be stacked and magnetically coupled together

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic coupling: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS7804966B2Audio amplifier attachable to speaker system by way of magnetic coupler and method therefor
Publication Date: 2010.09.28 FENDER MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS CORP
  • US7804966B2 patent drawing
  • US7804966B2 patent drawing
  • US7804966B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An audio amplifier and speaker system are stacked and magnetically coupled together. The audio amplifier is coupled for receiving an audio signal. A first securing assembly is provided on a bottom surface of the amplifier. The first securing assembly may be a foot formed on the bottom surface of the audio amplifier. The speaker is electrically coupled to the amplifier. A second securing assembly is provided on a top surface of the speaker. The second securing assembly may be a receptacle formed in top surface of the speaker. The foot is inserted into the receptacle. The foot and receptacle are magnetically coupled to attach the amplifier to the speaker. The foot has a first electrical connector, and the receptacle has a second electrical connector mated to the first electrical connector to route the audio signal from the amplifier to the speaker.