Speaker Bridge Asymmetrical Features Diffuse Standing Waves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional speaker systems struggle to provide a clear and crisp audio sound over a wide range of frequencies due to standing sound waves, which are not effectively diffused by their symmetrical designs.
Innovation Solution
The speaker system incorporates asymmetrical sound altering features such as dimples and protrusions on a bridge that supports a second transducer, which alters the off-axis and on-axis frequency response, diffusing standing sound waves and enhancing audio quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional symmetrical speaker designs are used, then manufacturing is simple and cost-effective, but standing sound waves are not effectively diffused resulting in poor audio quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by positioning sound altering features (dimples or protrusions) at specific non-symmetrical locations on the bridge structure. The bridge includes a first sound altering feature on a first side of the second transducer and a second sound altering feature on a second opposing side, where the features are positioned asymmetrically relative to the transducer axis. This asymmetrical configuration effectively diffuses standing sound waves across the frequency spectrum while maintaining integration with the manufacturing process through molded-in features.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If asymmetrical sound altering features are added to diffuse standing sound waves, then audio quality improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sound altering features directly into the bridge structure itself. The dimples or protrusions are formed as integral parts of the bridge during the molding process, eliminating the need for separate components or assemblies. This integration approach diffuses standing sound waves effectively while avoiding additional parts, fasteners, or complex assembly procedures, thus limiting the increase in device complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple sound altering features are positioned on the bridge, then frequency response is enhanced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by varying the depth, diameter, and positioning of the dimples or protrusions to control different frequency ranges. The sound altering features include dimples with specific depth-to-diameter ratios and positioning parameters that are optimized during design to achieve desired frequency response characteristics. These parametric variations are incorporated into the molding process specifications, allowing precise frequency control while maintaining manufacturability through standard molding tolerances.
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 use of asymmetrical sound altering features on the bridge of the speaker system diffuses standing sound waves, resulting in a crisper and clearer audio sound across a wider range of frequencies compared to conventional speakers, while minimizing costs by integrating these features into the manufacturing process.
Implementation Method 1
Conventional speaker systems struggle to provide a clear and crisp audio sound over a wide range of frequencies due to standing sound waves
Implementation Method 2
The use of asymmetrical sound altering features on the bridge of the speaker system diffuses standing sound waves
Data Source
AI summary
A speaker system is provided herein that includes a frame at least partially encompassing a diaphragm of a first transducer. A bridge is operably coupled with the frame. The bridge includes a support section and a pair of arms extending therefrom, the support section including a rim portion. A second transducer is supported by the bridge and at least partially disposed within the rim portion. A first sound altering feature is disposed on a first side of the second transducer. An asymmetrical second sound altering feature is disposed on a second opposing side of the second transducer.