Seat Armrest Acoustic Element for Vehicle Sound Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicle audio systems fail to effectively localize sound images in front of the occupant, leading to suboptimal listening experiences due to direct acoustic energy radiation.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating directional acoustic elements, such as multi-source array or single source acoustic elements coupled with direction modifying devices like waveguides, into seat systems to radiate acoustic energy towards forward-facing surfaces, thereby reflecting sound towards the occupant and localizing the sound image in front of them.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If speakers are positioned in the perimeter surfaces of the vehicle (doors, dashboard), then acoustic energy can be delivered to occupants, but sound localization is poor and sound image quality is suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions acoustic elements in the seat (horizontal plane near occupant) rather than only in perimeter surfaces, and uses directional radiation patterns to create vertical acoustic paths via reflection. This dimensional change enables sound localization in front of the occupant without requiring complex multi-speaker perimeter configurations.
2Reliability
If speakers are positioned behind the headrest or seatback to radiate acoustic energy directly to the occupant, then sound can be delivered, but sound image localization remains suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of radiating acoustic energy directly from behind the headrest toward the occupant, the patent inverts the approach by radiating energy forward toward a reflective surface (dashboard, windshield, or forward-facing panel), which then reflects the sound back to the occupant. This inversion creates proper sound image localization in front of the occupant.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a reflective surface (dashboard, windshield, or forward-facing panel) as an intermediary between the acoustic element and the occupant. This mediator reflects acoustic energy to create properly localized sound images, eliminating the need for direct rearward speaker positioning.
3Reliability
If acoustic elements radiate acoustic energy towards forward-facing surfaces, then sound can be reflected back to the occupant with improved localization, but less acoustic energy is radiated directly at the occupant
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts what would normally be considered wasted acoustic energy (energy radiated forward instead of directly at the occupant) into a beneficial effect by using forward-facing reflective surfaces to bounce the energy back to the occupant. The 'harm' of reduced direct radiation becomes the 'benefit' of improved sound localization through reflection.
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 approach enhances sound localization, improving the listening experience by shifting the perceived sound image to a position in front of the occupant, resulting in a more robust and fuller sound quality.
Implementation Method 1
the direction modifying device is a waveguide including a structure having a radiating surface with a plurality of leak openings... configured to reflect the acoustic energy off of the surface
Implementation Method 2
the one or more acoustic elements radiate acoustic energy towards a region in front of the seat to reflect the acoustic energy off a surface in front of the seat and back towards the occupant
Data Source
AI summary
Seat systems and vehicle audio systems are provided. In one example, a seat system includes a seat including at least a first armrest, and a first acoustic element attached to the first armrest and configured to radiate acoustic energy to a surface in a forward facing direction of the seat.