Loudspeaker Cabinet Rigging With Cam Latch Angle Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current inter-cabinet rigging systems for sound system columns are complex to assemble, require multiple experienced technicians, and are time-consuming, especially when tension-mounted, due to strict tolerance requirements and the need for manual angle adjustments.

Innovation Solution

A mechanism that converts translational actuation into lateral movement for latch engagement, allowing for easier connection and angle adjustment between loudspeaker cabinets, using a cam and spring system to facilitate secure locking and simplify the assembly process, along with a piston mechanism for adjusting inter-cabinet angles.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional ball locks and quick-release pins are used for inter-cabinet connection, then the connection can be established, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming due to strict tolerance requirements and manual angle adjustment needs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection device automatically performs alignment and locking functions. The latch mechanism with cam-driven translation and rotational movement self-adjusts to align with the connection hole, eliminating the need for manual angle adjustments and precise tolerance control by operators.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces the complex mechanical system of ball locks and quick-release pins with a cam-driven latch mechanism that converts translational actuation into rotational movement, simplifying the connection process while maintaining reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If manual angle adjustment is required for each cabinet connection, then the inter-cabinet angles can be precisely set, but the assembly process requires multiple experienced technicians and precious time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveangle adjustment precisionVSAvoidassembly speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The device automatically adjusts and locks the inter-cabinet angle through the cam mechanism. When the latch is actuated, the cam converts the linear movement into rotational movement that precisely positions the latch in the connection hole, achieving both precision and speed without manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The connection device is pre-configured with the cam mechanism that embodies the angle adjustment function. The geometry of the cam path is designed in advance to provide the precise angular positioning required, eliminating the need for operators to perform angle adjustments during assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If the connection device requires strict tolerance control for hole and pin fit, then the connection stability is improved, but the manufacturing and assembly difficulty increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidhole tolerance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The invention changes the operational parameters of the connection system by using a cam mechanism that converts small linear displacements into precise rotational movements. This allows the system to achieve high positioning accuracy without requiring extremely tight manufacturing tolerances on the connection holes and pins.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The cam acts as an intermediary element between the actuation force and the latch positioning. It mediates the relationship between the linear movement of the actuator and the rotational positioning of the latch, absorbing tolerance variations and ensuring reliable connection stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 solution reduces the complexity and time required for assembly, allowing for faster setup of sound system columns with fewer technicians, as the mechanism enables easier and more precise connection and angle adjustment, enhancing operational efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

The conversion mechanism can comprise in practice a cam driven by said actuation control. Such a cam makes it possible to implement the change of direction, as well as optionally the gearing down or up of the movement, by choosing in particular a suitable cam path.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCam mechanism: Cam

Data Source

PatentUS8807270B2Loudspeaker cabinet with a device for mechanical connection to another cabinet and/or a device for adjusting the inter-cabinet angle
Publication Date: 2014.08.19 NEXO
  • US8807270B2 patent drawing
  • US8807270B2 patent drawing
  • US8807270B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A loudspeaker cabinet (2) includes a device for mechanical connection to another loudspeaker cabinet and/or a device (8) for adjusting an angle formed between the cabinet (2) and the other cabinet. The connection device includes a mechanism for the conversion of a translational actuation control in a first direction into a translational movement of at least one first latch in a second direction different from the first direction. The angle adjustment device includes an element (8) the length of which in the operating position adjusts the angle and is determined according to the position of a rotary component (10).