Variable Waveguide Speaker for Multi-Zone Dispersion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing waveguide and line array drivers fail to provide consistent sound coverage across near-field, intermediate-field, and far-field listening areas due to narrow vertical dispersion, particularly in the near field.
Innovation Solution
A variable waveguide speaker system with a unique design that narrows and directs the dispersion of lower driver arrays for far-field areas, widens the mid-section for mid-field areas, and features the widest top for near-field coverage, combined with a laminar flow grill system for protection and a built-in subwoofer for full frequency range coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a ground plane line array is used to cover long distances, then far-field coverage is improved, but vertical dispersion becomes very narrow which diminishes sound performance in the near field
Solution Approach 1:
The speaker system is divided into three distinct driver arrays (tweeter array, mid-range driver array, woofer array) positioned at different heights and orientations. Each array is segmented to handle specific frequency ranges and dispersion patterns, with the tweeter array providing vertical dispersion for near-field coverage while the woofer array directs sound for far-field coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
Different sections of the speaker system have different dispersion characteristics tailored to their specific listening areas. The tweeter array at the top provides wide vertical dispersion for near-field listeners, the mid-range array provides intermediate dispersion for mid-field listeners, and the woofer array provides directed sound for far-field listeners. Each local section optimizes quality for its specific function.
2Length of moving object
If a waveguide design is used to direct sound, then far-field coverage is improved, but near-field sound coverage is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The speaker system dynamically adapts its dispersion pattern through the combination of multiple driver arrays with different orientations and characteristics. The system provides different dispersion patterns simultaneously - wide vertical dispersion from the tweeter array for near-field coverage while maintaining directed sound from the woofer array for far-field coverage, creating a dynamic multi-zone coverage pattern.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution adds vertical dimensionality to the sound distribution by positioning driver arrays at different heights (tweeter array at top, mid-range array in middle, woofer array at bottom) and orienting them differently. This three-dimensional arrangement allows simultaneous coverage of near-field, mid-field, and far-field listening areas through vertical separation of functions.
Data Source
AI summary
A variable waveguide speaker controls, narrows, and directs the dispersion of the lower driver array to handle far-field listening areas. The widening mid-section of the speaker directs the sound from the mid-driver array to mid-field listening areas. The top of the speaker is the widest, allowing the top array drivers to cover their widest dispersion for near-field listening areas. This form-follows-function design results in a modern shape and elegant enclosure, as well as superior audio performance. A unique laminar flow grill system consisting of a multi-layer sandwich arrangement protects the speaker components from performance damage UV rays, dust, debris, water and ice.