Wireless Sound Device Wall Outlet Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sound masking and sound-emitting systems lack flexibility in placement and installation, aesthetic appeal, and integration with other environmental systems, limiting their usage beyond offices and affecting acoustic management in various settings.
Innovation Solution
A wireless sound-emitting device with a housing that can be coupled to a wall power source, featuring a loudspeaker for directional sound emission and a control module for stereo operation, integrated with a wireless communications module and status indicators, allowing remote control through a wireless controller that can interface with smart home systems and IoT platforms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional sound masking systems are installed, then acoustic management is achieved, but flexibility in placement and ease of installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sound-emitting device is designed to interface with standard electrical outlets and existing wall infrastructure, allowing it to be installed in various locations without requiring specialized installation procedures. The device can be plugged into any standard electrical outlet and coupled to existing wall structures, providing universal compatibility across different installation environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the sound masking function into discrete, independently installable units that can be placed at different locations throughout a space. Each unit operates independently but contributes to the overall acoustic environment, allowing flexible placement without requiring a centralized complex installation.
2Illumination intensity
If sound masking systems are deployed, then acoustic characteristics are improved, but aesthetic appearance and integration with other systems deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sound-emitting device is integrated into wall plates that can be mounted on or near electrical outlets, merging the acoustic function with existing electrical infrastructure. This integration allows the device to blend aesthetically with wall surfaces and coordinate with other wall-mounted systems while maintaining functional independence.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates multiple functions including sound emission, wireless communication capabilities, and integration with smart home systems through standard interfaces. This multi-functionality allows seamless integration with various existing systems while maintaining a unified aesthetic appearance.
3Ease of operation
If remote control capability is added, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device replaces physical control interfaces with wireless communication capabilities, allowing remote operation through wireless signals rather than mechanical buttons or switches. This substitution reduces the need for complex physical control mechanisms while enabling sophisticated remote control functions through software-based interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces a wireless communication module as an intermediary between the user and the sound-emitting device, allowing control without direct physical interaction. This intermediary layer simplifies the user interface while managing the complexity of remote control functions through standardized wireless protocols.
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
Enhances flexibility and ease of installation, improves aesthetic integration, and expands usage to various environments by enabling remote control of sound masking and ambient noise management, improving acoustic conditions in residential and commercial spaces.
Implementation Method 1
a loudspeaker positioned at a periphery of the housing... the electric audio signal drives the loudspeaker and the loudspeaker converts the electric audio signal into emitted acoustic signals
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless sound-emitting device includes a housing adapted to be coupled to a wall at a source of electric power, a loudspeaker positioned at a periphery of the housing, a control module outputting an electric audio signal to the at least one loudspeaker, and a wireless communications module in electrical communication with the control module. The loudspeaker emits acoustic signals in a direction parallel to the wall, when the housing is coupled to the wall, with the acoustic signals reflecting off the wall. The device may produce a sound masking noise or play a sound recorded on an internal memory. The device may include an electric plug or be adapted to replace an electric outlet faceplate. The device may have electric pass-through outlets and may be powered by the source of electric power. The device may be controlled remotely, for example via an Internet of Things (IoT) platform.