Stowage Bin Face Panel Speaker Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
In vehicle media systems, particularly in aircraft, existing flat panel speaker technologies are incompatible with other vibration-sensitive systems due to surface vibration, limiting the use of surfaces for multiple functionalities.
Innovation Solution
A media system integrating an electroacoustic transducer into the face panel of a stowage bin, allowing the transducer to function as a flat-panel speaker while enabling other surfaces to be used for high-definition displays, with a movable face panel that provides access to the bin's interior and utilizes an attenuator and accelerometer for adjustable audio signals based on position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If flat panel speaker technology is used to provide audio in vehicles, then audio quality is improved, but surface vibration is generated that renders surfaces incompatible with vibration-sensitive systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (electroacoustic transducer integrated into the stowage bin face panel) that decouples the vibration source from the primary surfaces. The transducer generates acoustic signals through the stowage bin panel rather than through the vehicle's structural surfaces, thereby mediating between the need for audio output and the need to protect vibration-sensitive systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If surfaces are dedicated to audio functionality, then audio performance is improved, but other surfaces cannot be used for other functionalities such as high-definition displays
Solution Approach 1:
The stowage bin face panel serves multiple functions: it acts as a structural component of the stowage bin, provides access to the bin interior through movable coupling, and functions as an audio output surface through integration of the electroacoustic transducer. This multi-functionality allows the vehicle interior to utilize surfaces for both audio and display purposes without compromising audio performance.
3Ease of operation
If the face panel is made movable to provide access to stowage bin interior, then accessibility is improved, but structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The face panel is designed with movable coupling to the mounting structure, allowing it to transition between fixed and movable states. This dynamic design enables the panel to provide easy access to the stowage bin interior when moved, while maintaining structural integrity when fixed. The electroacoustic transducer remains effectively coupled to the panel in both states, ensuring consistent audio performance.
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
Enables the repurposing of surfaces for multiple functionalities, such as audio and display, while maintaining the structural integrity and vibration compatibility needed for sensitive systems, enhancing the versatility and efficiency of in-vehicle media systems.
Implementation Method 1
A media system is disclosed that includes an electroacoustic transducer, integrated into a face panel of a stowage bin inside a vehicle
Implementation Method 2
Positioning the electroacoustic transducer in the face panel of the stowage bin enables other surfaces inside the vehicle to be utilized for other functionalities
Data Source
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AI summary
A media system 100 for vehicle 102 having chassis 104 comprises electroacoustic transducer 114, integrated into face panel 108 of stowage bin 110 inside vehicle 102. Stowage bin 110 comprises mounting structure 112 that is stationary relative to chassis 104 of vehicle 102. Interior 130 of stowage bin 110 is accessible via face panel 108. Face panel 108 is movably coupled to mounting structure 112.