Speaker Control via Lamp Base Coupler and DSP
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing audio systems for home and commercial environments face challenges in achieving proper directional sound cues and independent volume control without the need for complex and costly wiring installations, especially in spaces with limited access or hollow-walled construction.
Innovation Solution
An electrical apparatus comprising a speaker connected to a digital signal processor, which can receive audio and control data via wireless RF or power line communication, and is detachably connected to a power source through a lamp base coupler, allowing for individual sound signal control and featuring a sound diffuser for creating a diffused sound field. Additionally, a method for determining optimal speaker placement using calibration audio signals and microphones to simulate ideal channel positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If speakers are physically connected with independent wires from central amplifier, then directional sound cues and independent volume control are achieved, but installation complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wiring system with a wireless communication system. Speakers communicate with the central amplifier via wireless signals, eliminating the need for physical cable connections while maintaining independent control capabilities. This substitution resolves the contradiction by removing the complex wiring infrastructure while preserving the functional benefits of independent speaker control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs universal wireless communication protocols that allow speakers to receive both audio signals and control commands through the same wireless interface. This multi-functionality enables independent volume control and directional sound positioning without requiring separate wiring for audio and control signals, thereby simplifying installation while maintaining operational independence.
2Manufacturing precision
If speakers are placed in predetermined positions for surround sound, then directional sound cues are clear, but adaptability to different room configurations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic speaker positioning where speakers can be placed flexibly in various locations and the system automatically adapts. The central amplifier receives feedback about speaker positions and dynamically adjusts audio signal distribution to maintain optimal directional sound cues regardless of the specific configuration. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by allowing non-predetermined placement while preserving directional accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the central amplifier receives information about actual speaker positions and uses this feedback to optimize audio distribution. This closed-loop control enables the system to adapt to different room configurations and speaker placements while maintaining the precision of directional sound cues, thereby resolving the contradiction between placement precision and configuration flexibility.
3Reliability
If professional speaker placement is required for optimal sound, then sound quality is improved, but installation difficulty and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service installation where the system automatically configures optimal speaker placement and audio distribution without requiring professional intervention. The central amplifier autonomously determines the best configuration based on received speaker position information and automatically adjusts audio signals accordingly. This self-configuration capability maintains high sound quality while dramatically simplifying installation, resolving the contradiction between reliability and ease of manufacture.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical apparatus includes a frame, a speaker connected to the frame, a digital signal processor in communication with the speaker to receive audio data and control data to control the speaker, the digital signal processor connected to the frame, and a lamp base coupler electrically connected to the speaker and receiver, the lamp base coupler detachably connectable to a power source, when the power source is present. A method of steering the diffused sound field includes, broadcasting at least one calibration audio signal through a plurality of speakers (M) in an audio system, receiving the calibration audio signal in a plurality of microphones spaced apart and positioned about at a listening position, and calculating respective relative speaker placement angles relative to the listening position between each of the plurality of speakers in response to receipt of the calibration audio signal in the plurality of microphones.