Shielded Microphone Suspension with Plenum-Sealed Cable Adapter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-element microphones are susceptible to radio frequency noise due to exposed wires, and wired microphones face challenges in precise positioning and maintaining plenum ratings, especially when using barrier-penetrating connectors like RJ connectors, which compromise the plenum seal.
Innovation Solution
A three-element shielded microphone design with integrated electronics and capsule, combined with an adaptable suspension system that allows for precise positioning and maintains a plenum seal through the use of a plenum-rated barrier and a cable adaptor mechanism that secures the microphone cable, preventing air leakage and allowing adjustable cable length without compromising the plenum rating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wired microphones use barrier-penetrating connectors like RJ connectors to pass through the ceiling, then electrical connection and power supply are achieved, but the plenum seal is compromised and air leakage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
A plenum-rated cable adapter is introduced as an intermediary component between the RJ connector and the ceiling opening. This adapter maintains the plenum seal by providing a proper sealing interface while still allowing electrical connection through the ceiling barrier.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable adapter changes the physical parameters of the connection interface by providing a sealed opening that accommodates the cable while maintaining the plenum rating. The adapter transforms the unsealed connector interface into a sealed plenum-compliant interface.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the microphone cable length is extended through the ceiling with a sealed opening, then the microphone can be positioned below the ceiling, but the cable length cannot be readily adjusted without compromising the plenum rating
Solution Approach 1:
The cable management system is segmented into multiple components: the plenum-rated cable adapter that maintains the seal, and the cable portion that can be adjusted below the ceiling. This segmentation allows cable length adjustment in the accessible region without affecting the sealed plenum interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static sealed opening to a dynamic configuration where the cable length can be adjusted below the ceiling while the plenum seal remains intact. The adapter provides a fixed sealed interface while allowing dynamic cable positioning in the accessible space.
3Ease of operation
If the microphone is suspended by the cable and the user wants it in a particular orientation other than vertical, then directional control is needed, but the cable tends to spin making precise directional control difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The plenum-rated cable adapter is installed beforehand in the ceiling opening to provide a stable mounting interface. This preliminary action creates a fixed reference point that prevents cable spinning and enables precise directional control of the suspended microphone.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter may include visual indicators or markings that help the user identify and maintain the correct orientation of the cable and microphone, making it easier to achieve and verify precise directional positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-element below-ceiling and shielded microphone that is combined with a mounting system is described. The microphone is used with an adaptor apparatus and system that allows the height of the microphone over a table and the rotational position of the mics to be easily adjusted and fixed, and such that a plenum may be established at the interface of the ceiling and the suspension cable if desired.