Seat-Integrated Loudspeaker System for Aircraft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional loudspeaker systems for aircraft are hindered by size and weight constraints, compromising sound quality while trying to meet the requirements for high fidelity audio in limited aircraft spaces, and existing solutions either sacrifice sound quality for size and weight or disturb nearby passengers.
Innovation Solution
A seat-integrated loudspeaker system with a directional sound assembly mounted in the headrest and a nondirectional low-frequency driver assembly, utilizing a progressive compression system to optimize sound delivery directly to the passenger while minimizing disturbance to adjacent passengers, using a combination of subwoofers, mid-range, and high-frequency drivers with support arms for focused sound delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional loudspeaker assemblies are used to provide high fidelity sound, then sound quality is improved, but size and weight increase which adversely affects aircraft range and payload
Solution Approach 1:
The loudspeaker system is divided into multiple independent driver assemblies (woofers, mid-range drivers, tweeters) positioned at different locations within the seat structure. Each driver assembly handles specific frequency ranges and can be independently optimized for weight and performance, allowing high fidelity sound reproduction without requiring a single large, heavy conventional loudspeaker assembly.
2Measurement precision
If conventional loudspeaker assemblies are used to provide high fidelity sound, then sound quality is improved, but the size of the assembly increases which consumes valuable aircraft space
Solution Approach 1:
The multiple driver assemblies are nested within the existing seat structure, with drivers positioned in headrest, seat back, and seat cushion components. This nesting approach allows the loudspeaker system to utilize available space within the seat assembly without adding external bulk, maintaining high fidelity sound quality while minimizing impact on aircraft interior space.
3Ease of operation
If loudspeaker assemblies are positioned to provide ambient sound to passengers, then sound delivery is improved, but nearby passengers are disturbed
Solution Approach 1:
Different driver assemblies are positioned to create localized sound zones tailored to specific passenger needs. Headrest-mounted drivers provide focused sound to the individual passenger's head area, while other drivers address broader seating areas. This localized sound delivery ensures each passenger receives optimal audio quality without excessive sound spillage that would disturb nearby passengers.
Data Source
AI summary
A seat integrating a loudspeaker system includes a seat having a seat body with a horizontally oriented seat bottom and a seat back secured thereto. The seat back includes an upper end and a lower end, wherein the lower end is positioned adjacent the seat bottom. The loudspeaker system includes a sound assembly mounted within the seat for selective movement between a storage orientation in which the sound assembly is housed and hidden within a support housing mounted along the seat and a use orientation extending from the support housing in which the sound assembly is positioned for use.