Connected Speaker Latch System for Compact Array Design

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing linear array speakers have a large distance between point sound sources due to bulky connecting structures, leading to sound waveforms deviating from cylindrical waves and unreliable connections that loosen over multiple assembly and disassembly cycles.

Innovation Solution

A connected speaker device with a thin connecting structure comprising first and second plates mounted on speakers, where the plates are screwed together outside the surrounding parts, reducing the distance between speakers and ensuring reliable engagement and disengagement, and featuring conductive pads and heads for electrical connection without additional tools.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of moving object

If traditional connecting structures with wiring, fixing, and support components are used, then the connection between speakers is structurally complete, but the distance between point sound sources increases to 3-5 cm or more

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedistance between point sound sourcesVSAvoidconnection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and removes unnecessary components from the connecting structure. Instead of using traditional wiring structures, fixing structures, and support structures, the invention uses a simplified connecting structure comprising only a connecting rod and connecting pieces, eliminating redundant elements that increase the distance between sound sources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The connecting rod in the patent is designed as a thin connecting structure that replaces bulky traditional connectors. This thin-film-like approach minimizes the distance between adjacent speakers while maintaining structural integrity and connection reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

2Ease of operation

If screws are used to fix two speakers together through screw holes, then the connection is structurally sound, but assembly and disassembly require significant work and the connection loosens after multiple cycles

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly and disassembly convenienceVSAvoidconnection firmness
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The connecting structure employs a dynamic locking mechanism where the connecting piece can rotate or move to engage and disengage from the connecting rod. This dynamic design allows for easy assembly and disassembly while maintaining a firm, reliable connection during operation, eliminating the loosening problem associated with static screw connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The connecting structure is designed to be self-locking or self-retaining during operation. The connecting piece automatically secures to the connecting rod through its design features (such as engagement protrusions or friction-fit mechanisms), eliminating the need for additional fastening operations and ensuring the connection remains firm without requiring repeated tightening.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3383062B1Connected speaker device comprising latch system
Publication Date: 2021.04.07 NINGBO TONWEL AUDIO EQUIP
  • EP3383062B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3383062B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3383062B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Embodiments of the disclosure disclose a connected speaker device having a first speaker, a first plate mounted on the first speaker, a second speaker, and a second plate which is mounted on the first speaker and connected to at least a part of the first plate. A distance between the first speaker and the second speaker is equal to a sum of thicknesses of the first plate and the second plate. The disclosed connected speaker device effectively reduces the distance between adjacent speakers and ensures reliability of the connection between the speakers at the same time.