Robotic Loudspeaker Array Actuation With Automatic Speaker Ordering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current loudspeaker systems are heavy, costly, and cumbersome, with limited adjustability and identification capabilities, making them inefficient for large venues and mobile applications.
Innovation Solution
A speaker system with a single actuation system providing mechanical advantage and a speaker ID system for automatic adjustment and identification, reducing weight and cost while enabling precise angle adjustments and speaker ordering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If current loudspeaker systems are used, then acoustic coverage is achieved, but weight and cost are excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the loudspeaker array into modular units with standardized coupling mechanisms. Each speaker can be independently adjusted and connected to form different configurations, reducing the weight of individual components while maintaining overall acoustic coverage through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamically adjustable speaker orientations using robotic actuators that can change speaker angles in real-time. This dynamic capability allows the system to maintain optimal acoustic coverage with lighter speakers that can be repositioned, rather than requiring heavy fixed-orientation speakers.
2Ease of operation
If manual adjustment methods are used, then setup is completed, but labor intensity and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates robotic actuators and automated control systems that enable the loudspeaker array to self-adjust its configuration. The speakers can be automatically positioned and oriented without manual intervention, eliminating the need for workers to perform dangerous high-altitude adjustments while improving setup efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical adjustment systems are replaced with automated robotic actuation mechanisms. These robotic systems use electric or hydraulic actuators to adjust speaker orientations, replacing the need for manual mechanical manipulation by workers and significantly improving safety and productivity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If speaker identification systems are added, then random connection handling is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates speaker identification, networking, and adjustment control into a unified universal system. Each speaker unit contains embedded identifiers and communication capabilities that allow the central control system to automatically identify, locate, and adjust any speaker in the array, handling random connections without requiring separate identification hardware or complex manual tracking.
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 system achieves significant weight reduction (up to 50-70%) and cost savings, allowing for efficient setup and adjustment of loudspeakers with improved acoustic performance and simplified handling.
Implementation Method 1
The actuation system is configured to provide a mechanical advantage to movement of two speakers relative to one another when the speakers have substantially zero degrees of actuation between the two speakers
Data Source
AI summary
Loudspeaker systems having improved robotic support and communication systems are described. The systems include improved mechanical actuation systems for adjusting a line-array of speakers enabling reduced weight and simpler designs for a given output. The systems further include improved identification systems that enable randomly connected speakers to be identified and ordered for adjustment.