Audio Transducer Array with Reflective Plate for Wide Dispersion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional transducers in audio playback devices have limited directivity, resulting in a lack of perceived spaciousness and angular dispersion, particularly in non-reverberant environments, which is inadequate for producing stereo audio output effectively.
Innovation Solution
A wide dispersion playback device comprising an array of transducers positioned adjacent to each other within a housing with acoustically reflective plates, allowing acoustic waves to overlap and emit across a 180-degree or greater range, enhancing stereo output dispersion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If conventional transducers are used in audio playback devices, then the device structure remains simple, but the angular dispersion and perceived spaciousness are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single transducer function into multiple individual transducers arranged in an array. Each transducer emits acoustic waves that collectively achieve wide angular dispersion (180 degrees or greater), transforming the narrow directivity of conventional single transducers into omnidirectional sound distribution for enhanced spaciousness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple individual transducers into a unified array system where their acoustic waves overlap and integrate. This merging of multiple sound sources creates a cohesive wide-dispersion audio output that maintains coherence while achieving omnidirectional coverage, effectively merging individual contributions into a unified spatial audio experience
2Shape
If transducers are positioned close together to achieve wide dispersion, then the angular coverage improves, but acoustic interference between adjacent transducers increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different acoustic characteristics to different positions within the transducer array. By carefully positioning transducers and controlling their individual radiation patterns, each transducer contributes optimally to specific angular zones while minimizing interference in overlapping regions, creating localized quality variations that collectively achieve smooth wide dispersion
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies acoustic parameters such as frequency content, phase relationships, and amplitude distribution across the transducer array. By adjusting these parameters, the system optimizes the overlap region between adjacent transducers to reduce destructive interference while maintaining constructive addition in the desired dispersion directions
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 provides a more immersive and evenly distributed audio experience across a wider range, improving the perceived spaciousness and stereo output quality in non-reverberant environments.
Implementation Method 1
an array of electroacoustic transducers disposed within or surrounded by the baffle and configured to emit acoustic waves toward the opening
Implementation Method 2
an acoustically reflective plate spaced apart from and facing at least partially toward the baffle, the baffle and the plate defining an opening therebetween
Data Source
AI summary
Audio device transducer arrays and associated systems and methods are disclosed herein. In some examples, the audio device can comprise a housing including a baffle and an acoustically reflective plate spaced apart from and facing at least partially toward the baffle, such that the baffle and the plate define an opening therebetween. The audio device can further comprise an array of electroacoustic transducers disposed within or surrounded by the baffle and configured to emit acoustic waves toward the opening. The array of transducers can be configured to produce acoustic waves having a frequency of about 1.5 kilohertz (kHz) or greater.