Illuminated user interface architecture

This disclosure relates to speakers and more specifically to an array speaker for distributing music uniformly across a room. A number of audio drivers can be radially distributed within a speaker housing so that an output of the drivers is distributed evenly throughout the room. In some embodiments, the exit geometry of the audio drivers can be configured to bounce off a surface supporting the array speaker to improve the distribution of music throughout the room. The array speaker can include a number of vibration isolation elements distributed within a housing of the array speaker. The vibration isolation elements can be configured reduce the strength of forces generated by a subwoofer of the array speaker.

FIELD

This disclosure applies generally to speakers. In particular, an array of speakers housed within a cylindrical housing is described.

BACKGROUND

Conventional speakers are generally directional in nature, which can have the effect of leaving dead spots within a room. Often a large array of speakers is distributed around a room to achieve a substantially uniform level of audio performance throughout the room. Conventional speakers can also be subject to vibratory excursions in certain playback regimes. For example, a subwoofer can cause substantial buzzing and or motion of a speaker depending on the volume and frequency of the music being played back. Consequently, improvements in speaker design are desirable.

SUMMARY

This disclosure describes various embodiments that relate to an electronic device that incorporates a speaker or array of speakers.

An array speaker is disclosed and includes the following: an axisymmetric device housing; a number of audio driver assemblies distributed radially about an interior of the axisymmetric device housing; and a power supply unit positioned between two or more of the audio driver assemblies.

An electronic device is disclosed and includes a device housing; and audio driver assemblies arranged in a circular configuration within the device housing, diaphragms of each audio driver assembly arranged so that audio waves generated by the diaphragms are initially oriented toward a central region of the circular configuration.

An electronic device is disclosed and includes an axisymmetric housing; an array of audio driver assemblies disposed within the axisymmetric housing at a regular radial interval, each of the audio driver assemblies being configured to generate audio waves that exit the substantially axisymmetric housing through acoustic vents defined by a downward facing end of the axisymmetric housing.

An electronic device is disclosed and includes a subwoofer having a diaphragm, a coil coupled to the diaphragm and configured to emit a changing magnetic field, and a permanent magnet configured to interact with the changing magnetic field generated by the coil to move the diaphragm axially, the permanent magnet including lobes protruding radially therefrom.

A speaker is disclosed and includes a device housing, a subwoofer disposed within the device housing and having a diaphragm configured to oscillate in a direction aligned with a longitudinal axis of the device housing, the subwoofer including a permanent magnet comprising a plurality of protrusions distributed at a regular radial interval about the longitudinal axis of the device housing.

An electronic device is disclosed and includes: a device housing; a subwoofer disposed within the device housing and including a permanent magnet having lobes protruding radially therefrom; an audio driver assembly disposed within the device housing; and a capacitor configured to supply power to the audio driver assembly and positioned between two of the lobes.

An audio driver is disclosed and includes the following: a driver housing defining an audio exit opening; a diaphragm disposed within the driver housing; and a phase plug assembly disposed between the diaphragm and the audio exit opening. The diaphragm phase plug assembly separate a front volume from a back volume and a portion of the back volume extends toward the audio exit opening and past the diaphragm.

An array speaker is disclosed and includes the following: a first audio driver assembly disposed between a second audio driver assembly and a third audio driver assembly, the first audio driver assembly comprising: a driver housing defining an audio exit opening; a diaphragm disposed within the driver housing; and a phase plug disposed between the diaphragm and the audio exit opening, the phase plug separating a front volume from a back volume, a portion of the back volume extending toward the audio exit opening and past the diaphragm.

An audio driver assembly is disclosed and includes the following: a driver housing defining an audio exit opening; a phase plug separating a front volume from a back volume, a portion of the back volume extending toward the audio exit opening; a U-cup engaged with the phase plug to define an interior volume; a diaphragm disposed within the interior volume and coupled with an electrically conductive coil configured to generate a changing magnetic field; and a driver magnet coupled to the U-cup and configured to interact with the changing magnetic field. The interaction between the changing magnetic field and a portion of a magnetic field disposed within an air gap positioned between a top plate and an interior-facing wall of the U-cup emitted by the driver magnet causes the diaphragm to oscillate within the interior volume.

A speaker is disclosed and includes the following: a device housing; a user interface assembly disposed at an end of the device housing; a printed circuit board (PCB) secured to an interior facing surface of the user interface assembly; and a subwoofer configured to push air toward the PCB during operation of the speaker.

An electronic device is disclosed and includes the following: a device housing; a user interface assembly; a printed circuit board (PCB) secured to an interior facing surface of the user interface assembly; and an audio component having a diaphragm configured to push air toward the PCB during operation of the electronic device.

An array speaker is disclosed and includes the following: an array of audio driver assemblies arranged in a circular geometry; a speaker housing defining an audio exit channel for each of the audio driver assemblies; and a foot supporting the speaker housing, the foot having a smaller diameter than the speaker housing, a surface of the foot cooperating with a surface of the speaker housing to define an outlet region for each of the audio exit channels, a first distance from a periphery of the foot to an outer edge of the speaker housing being greater than a second distance from a distal end of the foot to a downward facing surface of the speaker housing.

An electronic device is disclosed and includes the following: an axisymmetric device housing; audio driver assemblies disposed within the axisymmetric device housing; and a foot having a substantially smaller diameter than the axisymmetric device housing, the foot cooperating with a downward-facing surface of the axisymmetric device housing to define an audio exit region shaped to spread audio waves generated by the audio driver assemblies as the audio waves exit the axisymmetric device housing.

An electronic device is disclosed and includes the following: a device housing comprising an upper housing component and a lower housing component; an annular support member engaged with threading defined by the lower housing component; a subwoofer coupled to the annular support member; and a fastener extending through an opening defined by the upper housing component and engaging the annular support member.

An electronic device is disclosed and includes the following: a device housing, including first and second housing components cooperating to define an interior volume; an annular support member disposed within the interior volume and engaged with threading arranged along an interior-facing surface of the first housing component; and an audio component coupled to the annular support member, the audio component comprising a diaphragm configured to oscillate in a direction aligned with the longitudinal axis of the device housing.

A speaker device is disclosed and includes the following: an axisymmetric device housing comprising an upper housing component and a lower housing component coupled to the upper housing component; a support structure engaged with threading disposed along an interior facing surface of the lower housing component, the support structure including: a first annular member, and a second annular member coupled to the first annular member; a subwoofer coupled to the support structure and filling a central opening defined by the support structure; and a fastener extending through an opening defined by the upper housing component and engaging the annular support member.

A user interface is disclosed and includes the following: an exterior surface configured to receive touch inputs; light sources configured to direct light toward the exterior surface and arranged in a lens pattern; and a single piece lens array disposed between the light sources and the exterior surface, the lens array including lenses arranged in the lens pattern, each of the lenses protruding from a transparent substrate and having a surface facing a respective one of the light sources.

An electronic device is disclosed and includes the following: a device housing; and a user interface arranged along an exterior surface at a first end of the device housing, the user interface including: light sources configured to illuminate a region of the exterior surface, and a single piece lens array, including: lenses arranged in a lens pattern, each of the lenses protruding from a transparent substrate and having a concave surface facing a respective one of the light sources.

A speaker device is disclosed and includes the following: a device housing; a speaker driver assembly disposed within the device housing; and a user interface, including: a cosmetic surface configured to receive touch input and arranged along an exterior surface of the device housing; light sources configured to emit light toward the cosmetic surface; and a lens array disposed between the light sources and the cosmetic surface, the lens array including lenses arranged in a lens pattern, each of the lenses protruding from a transparent substrate and having a concave surface facing a respective one of the light sources.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Speaker configurations tend to be overly large when high quality audio playback is desired and the audio output can be very directional in nature. This often requires a user to be positioned in one particular location to get a desired quality level of audio content generated by the speakers. For example, a multi-channel speaker setup could require speakers to be mounted in multiple different corners of a room to achieve a substantially uniform distribution of sound within the room.

One way to reduce the size of a speaker configuration and simplify speaker setup while maintaining an even distribution of sound within a room, is to package multiple mid to high frequency drivers into a single housing. The drivers can be distributed within the speaker device so that audio exit channels associated with the drivers are distributed at a regular radial interval along a periphery of the speaker device. In some embodiments, beamforming techniques can be applied to improve audio performance by, adjusting audio exiting from adjacent audio exit openings in order to generate constructively interference. In one particular embodiment, the drivers can be positioned in a circular arrangement within a cylindrical housing to achieve an even radial distribution of sound. Destructive interference caused by reflections from the support surface on which the device is positioned can be prevented by orienting the audio exit openings next to the support surface.

In some embodiments, the size of the speaker device can be reduced by packaging the various internal components in close proximity. For example, a power supply unit can be positioned within a central recess defined by a circular arrangement of drivers. In some embodiments, capacitors can be located between a centrally located subwoofer and sidewalls of a device housing of the speaker device. In one particular embodiment, a magnet of the subwoofer can be shaped specifically to accommodate larger capacitors between the subwoofer and the sidewalls of the speaker device.

When the speaker device also includes processing components, heat rejection can also be important. In some embodiments, a main logic board of the speaker device can be positioned in front of the subwoofer so that air pushed by the subwoofer can convectively dissipate heat from heat emitting components of the main logic board.

Packaging a subwoofer within the speaker device can generate vibrations that could cause undesirable buzzing within or motion of the speaker device. In some embodiments, the subwoofer can be attached to mounting brackets within the device housing using a fastener with an elastomeric grommet. The elastomeric grommet can reduce the amount of vibrations imparted to the rest of the speaker device by the subwoofer.

In some embodiments, the mounting brackets can take the form of an annular support structure that is positioned within a device housing of the speaker device by rotating the annular support structure along threading arranged along an interior surface of the device housing. The mounting bracket can be configured to receive fasteners associated with an upper housing component of the device housing and the subwoofer. In some embodiments, the annular support structure can be formed of two separate rings that are compressed together by a series of fasteners.

In some embodiments, the speaker device can include a touch-based user interface positioned on a top surface of the speaker device. The touch-based user interface can include lighting that illuminates different regions of the touch-based user interface. For example, a central portion of the user interface could be illuminated with a shifting pattern of colors in response to a voice command being received or processed. The shifting pattern of colors could be produced by an array of LEDs embedded beneath an exterior surface of the touch-based user interface. Other illuminated controls on the touch-based user interface can include volume controls. The touch-based user interface can utilize a capacitive touch sensor or other touch sensor suitable for detecting gesture-based touch inputs.

FIG. 1shows a perspective view of an array speaker100. Array speaker100can have an unbroken, aesthetically pleasing exterior surface and a symmetric substantially cylindrical geometry. As used herein, the term “substantially cylindrical geometry” refers to a geometry that is completely cylindrical (i.e., a geometry that includes straight parallel sides and has a circular or oval cross-section) as well as a geometry in which the sides of the top and/or bottom edges are tapered and rounded more than an actual cylinder. Array speaker100can also have different geometries. For example, a device housing for array speaker could have many different axisymmetric shapes that allows audio device assemblies to be distributed radially within the device housing. An axisymmetric geometry refers to a shape having symmetry around at least one axis. In the described embodiments, the device housing exhibits an axisymmetric geometry that has symmetry about a longitudinal axis of the device housing. It should also be noted that the term axisymmetric may also be construed to cover shapes that are substantially symmetric about one axis. For example, a small recess or protrusion would not preclude the housing from being described as having an axisymmetric geometry for the purpose of the following description.

An upper portion of array speaker100can include a user interface102. User interface102can allow a user to adjust settings for array speaker100. For example, track selection and changes in volume can be handled by interacting with user interface102. In some embodiments, user interface102can take the form of a touch sensitive surface. User interface102can include one or more light sources that illuminate various regions of user interface102to help a user interact with user interface102. A majority of array speaker100can be covered by acoustic fabric104. Acoustic fabric104can give array speaker100a consistent exterior surface. Some audio exit ports can be concealed by acoustic fabric104in a manner that results in minimal impact on the volume and/or quality of audio exiting array speaker100.

FIG. 2Ashows a cross-sectional view of array speaker100that includes only components disposed within the lower third of array speaker100. In particular, the cross-section of one audio driver assembly202is depicted. Audio driver assembly202can include driver housing204, which surrounds the audio components making up audio driver assembly202and defines a rectangular channel206for allowing the audio generated by diaphragm207of audio driver assembly202to exit driver housing204. Audio driver assembly202can be fastened to lower housing component208by fastener210. Driver housing204can be rotated so that rectangular channel206aligns with audio exit channel212defined by lower housing component208. Audio waves214exiting audio exit channel212pass through acoustic fabric104and travel along a supporting surface216upon which array speaker100rests due to the exit geometry of audio exit channel212. In some embodiments, acoustic fabric104can have a pattern designed to conceal components or features positioned beneath acoustic fabric104.

FIG. 2Aalso shows power receptacle220. Power receptacle220can extend between two adjacent audio driver assemblies202to route power to various components within array speaker100. Power receptacle220can be electrically coupled to power supply unit222by electrically conductive cable224. In some embodiments, power supply unit222can be coupled to power supply board226, which is in turn coupled to lower housing component208. Power supply unit222extends into a recess defined by audio driver assemblies202. Audio driver assemblies202are distributed radially at a regular interval about array speaker100. In this way, power supply unit222utilizes the space available within the recess defined by audio driver assemblies202. In some embodiments, amplifier board228and the components distributed thereon can also be electrically coupled to power supply unit222and power receptacle220by way of electrically conductive cable224.FIG. 2Aalso depicts cantilevered foot230, which supports the weight of array speaker100atop supporting surface216. Cantilevered foot230can be formed of damping material such as silicone configured to minimize the amount of vibration transferred from array speaker100to supporting surface216. Cantilevered foot230can be configured to dissipate forces transmitted in Z as well as moments acting about the X and/or Y axes. The wide aspect and symmetric footprint of cantilevered foot230also helps prevent rocking of the speaker due to moments acting about the X and/or Y axes.

FIG. 2Bshows an interior cross-sectional view of one side of array speaker100depicting diaphragm207and an audio exit channel212associated with one of audio driver assemblies202. Various dimensions of the exit of audio exit channel212are depicted in millimeters. In particular, the distance between the end of audio exit channel212and an edge229of a sidewall of lower housing component208is about 1.5 times greater than the height of a downward facing surface of array speaker100off a support surface supporting array speaker100. The height of foot230just below an outlet region for audio exit channel212is about half the distance from supporting surface216and the top surface of audio exit channel212. In some embodiments, a periphery of foot230has a thickness that is about 6/11 of distance231between a distal end of foot230(or supporting surface216) and the top surface of audio exit channel212at the outlet region. This geometry results in high-frequency audio waves moving around a corner of foot230and a corner of the outer edge of the housing in such a way that an even vertical directivity is achieved for both low and high-frequency audio waves. Distance232between the edge of lower housing component208and the periphery of the foot can be slightly longer than distance231. This allows the downward facing surface of lower housing component208to help shape the audio waves as they travel away from the speaker device. In some embodiments, a ratio of distance231to distance232can be about 11/15.

FIG. 2Cshows an interior schematic view of a lower region of array speaker100.FIG. 2Cdepicts how diaphragm207associated with one of audio driver assemblies202can be configured to emit audio through a number of vertical slots233defined by lower housing component208. Dashed lines234depicted within rectangular channel206and audio exit channel212represent sound waves generated by diaphragm207. In particular, dashed lines234are depicted turning within different regions of rectangular channel206and audio exit channel212. These channels are shaped deliberately to minimize destructive interference that could negatively affect the quality and/or volume produced by vibration of diaphragm207. For example, the turns in the audio channels direct acoustic waves in ways that preserve coherent wave fronts along the length of the audio channels. The shape of the audio channels also helps to direct the audio waves in a direction236oriented radially outward and upward, which results in spherically expanding wavefronts moving away from the supporting surface upon which lower housing component208rests. While audio waves are depicted two dimensionally by dashed lines234it should be appreciated that the audio waves have a three dimensional profile that extends circumferentially within and outside of lower housing component208.FIG. 2Calso shows how audio waves generated by diaphragm602turn in a direction substantially orthogonal to an original direction in which the audio waves are initially generated. For example, audio waves could shift 70 to 80 degrees in direction before exiting driver housing204through audio exit opening710.

FIG. 3Ashows a cross-sectional view of array speaker100in accordance with section line A-A ofFIG. 2A. Each driver assembly includes an adapter302configured to position phase plug304within driver housing204. Phase plug304reduces destructive interference by guiding audio waves from the large surface area of the diaphragm to the small entrance area of the throat of the horn rather than allowing the audio waves to interact destructively near the diaphragm. Phase plug also helps shape the sound waves leaving audio driver assembly202to conform to a non-circular or in some cases more rectangular channel206and audio exit channel212. A periphery of a diaphragm associated with coil assembly306is engaged with phase plug304as depicted. Coil assembly306includes a coil of wire that is affixed to a central portion of the diaphragm and is configured to generate a shifting magnetic field configured to interact with permanent magnet308, thereby causing waves to be generated by the diaphragm. When the shifting magnetic field interacts with the field generated by permanent magnet308the diaphragm vibrates at a rate suitable for generating audio waves associated with a media file being played back by array speaker100. Behind permanent magnet308is a support assembly taking the form of a magnetic motor assembly that includes U-cup310, top plate311and permanent magnet308. In addition to providing a surface upon which magnet308can be mounted, U-cup310directs a magnetic field emitted by magnet308to the air gap where the coil is positioned. Behind U-cup310is a foam layer312, which can be formed from open-cell foam. Foam layer312can enhance the audio performance of audio driver assembly202. In some embodiments, foam layer312can increase the apparent size of a back volume of audio driver assembly202. Finally, cap314is secured to driver housing204to close an opening in the back of audio driver assembly202. This rear opening in driver housing204can be used to insert the audio components described above within driver housing204.FIG. 3Aalso shows how channels206leading out of driver housing204can be distributed at a regular radial interval.

FIG. 3Bshows a cross-sectional view of array speaker100in accordance with section line B-B ofFIG. 2. In this view, top surfaces of driver housings204are depicted. Each driver housing has two driver screw terminals316. Driver screw terminals316can be used to create an electrically conductive pathway between the audio components within driver housing204and other components of array speaker100.

FIG. 4shows a perspective view of each of audio driver assemblies202. In particular, caps314are shown closing rear openings leading into driver housings204. Each of audio driver assemblies202is also depicted with an alignment bracket402. Alignment bracket402can be configured to create a buffer between each of audio driver assemblies202and lower housing component208. Alignment brackets402can also be configured to help align amplifier board228with driver screw terminals316. Amplifier board228is configured to support capacitors404and other electronic components such as electronic components406. Capacitors404are configured to provide power for audio driver assemblies202. In particular, the power from capacitors404can be used to support separate amp channels to power each of audio driver assemblies202. Amplifier board228is also depicted with terminals408. Each of terminals408can be configured to receive a fastener for coupling amplifier board228to driver screw terminals316. In this way, amplifier board228can be securely coupled to each of audio driver assemblies202.

FIG. 5Ashows a perspective view of a rear portion of audio driver assembly202. Cap314is removed from audio driver assembly202to reveal a rear-facing surface of U-cup310. U-cup310is coupled to peripheral tab portions508of phase plug304. Wires502are also depicted and can electrically couple audio components of audio driver assembly202to respective driver screw terminals316. Amplifier board228is shown secured to audio driver assemblies202by fasteners504, which are depicted engaging driver screw terminals316.FIG. 5Aalso shows a rear view of U-cup310, which includes engaging features506that engage tabs508of phase plug304.

FIG. 5Bshows a cross-sectional view of fastener504engaging driver screw terminal316. Fastener504can be an electrically conductive fastener and can be configured to carry a signal received from terminal408disposed upon amplifier board228. In some embodiments, amplifier board228can also include a lower terminal507disposed on a lower surface of amplifier board228. In some embodiments, lower terminal507can be compressed against driver screw terminal316, allowing signals to be transferred or a grounding path to be established between lower terminal507and driver screw terminal316along electrically conductive pathway509. Those signals can then be transferred to wire502, which is soldered to a lower portion of driver screw terminal316. The signals can include instructions for generating audio using the audio components within driver housing204. In some embodiments, one of wires502can be used to receive instructions and the other can be configured to receive power. In some embodiments, one of wires502can function as a grounding pathway.

FIG. 5Cshows another embodiment in which fastener504engages an opening defined by driver housing204. When driver housing204is made of electrically insulating materials, electrical signals and power can be routed into driver housing204by one or more of wires502. In some embodiments, sheet metal510can be positioned between driver housing204and amplifier board228. Sheet metal510can be bent in order to help define electrically conductive pathway509toward an exterior surface of driver housing204. Sheet metal510can also define an opening or a notch configured to accommodate fastener504. In some embodiments, wire502can be soldered to sheet metal510.

FIG. 6shows an exploded view of audio driver assembly202. Adapter302can be inserted into driver housing204. Driver housing204can include have internal features suited to receive adapter302. Adapter302can define an opening allowing audio waves to pass through adapter302and out of driver housing204. A rear-facing surface of adapter302can be configured to receive protrusions of phase plug304. Phase plug304defines a number of openings that shape the audio waves in a manner that prevents destructive interference as the audio waves are being directed toward the exit of driver housing204. Phase plug304is also depicted with tabs508, which are configured to be engaged by engaging features506of U-cup310.

FIG. 6also depicts coil assembly306, which includes diaphragm602and coil604. Coil604is electrically coupled with a power source so that it is able to receive alternating current. The alternating current results in coil604outputting a shifting magnetic field that interacts with the magnetic field emitted by permanent magnet308of the magnetic motor assembly. This interaction results in coil assembly306traveling back and forth between phase plug304and U-cup310. The direction of travel of coil assembly306can be defined by the direction of the circumferential current flow in the coil and the direction of the radially oriented magnetic flux within the air gap between top plate606and U-cup310that is generated by permanent magnet308. The direction of force is perpendicular to both the flow of current in coil604and the magnetic flux lines. Motion is permitted in that direction by a compliant surround portion of diaphragm602. Plate606can be coupled to permanent magnet308and designed to help shape the flow of magnetic flux emitted by permanent magnet308. The force applied to coil604results in diaphragm602moving and generating audio waves that travel through phase plug304and then out of driver housing204.

FIG. 7shows a cross-sectional view of audio driver assembly202. In particular, a back volume702of audio driver assembly202is depicted. Generally a back volume refers to an open area within the speaker housing containing air that is in fluid communication with a rear-facing surface of a diaphragm and not in fluid communication with a listener. Similarly, a front volume refers to another open area within the speaker housing containing air that is in fluid communication with both a forward-facing surface of the diaphragm and the listener. A larger back volume702increases the amount of air behind diaphragm602helping to increase low frequency output at a given power output for audio driver assembly202. An apparent size of back volume702can be increased by foam layer312, which by slowing air down within the back volume increases the apparent volume of back volume702. Back volume702can also be enlarged by a portion of back volume704that is forward of the diaphragm. By leaving a gap706between phase plug304and driver housing204, the additional open space can be added on to the total volume of back volume702. In some embodiments, this additional volume forward of diaphragm602can substantially improve audio performance when diaphragm602oscillates in the direction indicated by arrow708. In some embodiments, back volume702and forward back volume704can add up to about 17 CCs.FIG. 7also shows magnetic flux flow lines710and how both U-cup310and plate606cooperate to define a flux flow path for the magnetic field emitted by permanent magnet308. In this way, the magnetic field can be concentrated around the path along which coil604traverses during operation of audio driver assembly202.

FIG. 8shows a cross-sectional view of array speaker100that includes only components within a central portion of array speaker100.FIG. 8depicts both subwoofer802and microphones804. Subwoofer802includes a permanent ring magnet806for driving a coil808and a diaphragm810of subwoofer802. It should be noted that diaphragm810can also be referred to as a cone. While the cone terminology often refers to a rigid oscillating member associated with a subwoofer, for the purposes of this description, the oscillating member of the subwoofer will be described generally as a diaphragm. Subwoofer802can be mounted to lower housing component208by damped coupling812, which can minimize an amount of force and/or vibration transferred to lower housing component208from subwoofer802. A magnetic field emitted by ring magnet806can be shaped by pole structure814and plate structure816. An air gap between pole structure814and plate structure816can help localize the magnetic field emitted by ring magnet806around coil808.

The position of subwoofer802in the upper portion of the housing allows the region beneath subwoofer802to be used as a back volume for enhancing the audio produced by subwoofer802. While not depicted this back volume area includes audio driver assemblies202. This works well since the audio waves generated by audio driver assemblies202are isolated by housings204of audio driver assemblies202and the audio generated by audio driver assemblies202exits out the bottom end of the device housing.

FIG. 8also shows how microphones804can be distributed radially as depicted inFIG. 8. In some embodiments, a flexible ribbon cable or flexible PCB818can be utilized to electrically couple together each of microphones804. In some embodiments, microphones804can be configured to detect both internal audio sources and external audio sources. In some embodiments, microphones804can be configured to monitor the inside of array speaker100for distortion or overdriving to prevent speaker damage. In some embodiments, microphones804can be configured to relay audible user commands to a processor of array speaker100. For example, microphones804can be aligned with and sealed across an opening in the sidewall of the device housing, thereby allowing multiple microphones804to cooperatively triangulate the location of any audio detected by two or more of microphones804.

FIG. 9Ashows how magnet806of subwoofer802can extend radially around a periphery of subwoofer802according to an embodiment. Because magnet806extends radially from subwoofer802, capacitors404are limited in diameter. For this reason, as depicted inFIG. 9B, more capacitors404can be needed to power audio driver assemblies202than would be needed with a greater diameter capacitor. Generally, using a greater number of capacitors404tends to be more expensive and takes up a larger amount of space on amplifier board228.

FIG. 9Cshows a subwoofer902according to some embodiments of the disclosure that includes a magnet904instead of magnet806. Magnet904includes a number of protruding lobes906that can extend radially near or in some cases all the way out to the interior facing surfaces of lower housing component208. While magnet904is depicted having three lobes906it should be appreciated that magnet904could have any number of lobes906as long as they are distributed at an even interval about magnet904. For example, four narrower lobes could also be utilized. The even distribution of the lobes helps to keep the magnetic field emitted by magnet904from becoming asymmetric. In addition to lobes906it should be appreciated that an upper plate908directly above magnet904and a lower plate directly below magnet904can also be shaped to conform with lobes906of magnet904.FIG. 9Dshows how lobes906of magnet904leaves sufficient room for larger diameter capacitors912. This configuration would allow audio driver assemblies202(not depicted) to be powered by larger diameter capacitors912. In some embodiments, this can allow more power to be delivered to audio driver assemblies202allowing for higher quality and/or louder audio output of driver assemblies202.

FIG. 10Ashows a perspective view of subwoofer802. Subwoofer802includes a lip with multiple notches configured to receive fasteners. The lip is used to secure subwoofer802to a housing of array speaker100. Unfortunately, the inertia of the moving mass of subwoofer802creates forces in the Z axis and moments about the X and Y axes, which can lead to visible shaking and hopping of array speaker100. This could lead array speaker100to move laterally while playing music and become a drop hazard. The motion generated by subwoofer802can also create vibrations throughout the system, which can cause audible buzzing noises and potentially result in premature component failure or disconnection. Vertical motion of array speaker in the Z axis can also make a touch interface positioned on the top of array speaker100more difficult to use. For example, vertical motion of array speaker100could cause a user to touch the wrong portion of the touch interface or to make an input earlier than otherwise desired.

FIG. 10Ashows a solution to this problem. A number of elastomeric grommets1002and shoulder screws1004can be used to secure a flange1006of subwoofer802to a mounting feature within array speaker100. This can be accomplished by sliding each grommet1002into a notch1008defined by flange1006. Once secured within notch1008, shoulder screw1004can be inserted through an opening defined by grommet1002. A shoulder portion of shoulder screw1004can be positioned within the opening defined by grommet1002and a threaded portion of shoulder screw1004can be used to engage the mounting feature.

FIG. 10Bshows a perspective view of grommet1002, which can be made from highly damped rubber and have a specific geometry to achieve optimal stiffness properties to damp oscillations generated by subwoofer802. Grommet1002can define a U-shaped channel1010configured to allow grommet1002to slide into one of notches1008. When flange1006is engaged within U-shaped channel1010, the shape of U-shaped channel1010acts as an anti-rotation feature that prevents rotation of grommet1002within notch1008. This can be helpful when driving shoulder screws1004into an attachment feature. Grommet1002also includes protrusions1012protruding from upper flange1014. Protrusions1012also protrude from lower flange1016. Protrusions1012can also be configured to compress more easily when shoulder screw1004engages grommet1002through opening1018. The height and/or width of protrusions1012can be tuned to adjust the overall stiffness provided by grommet1002.

FIG. 11Ashows an exploded view of a convex user interface1100. Cosmetic layer1102can be formed from glass or plastic and be configured to provide a smooth surface upon which a user can comfortably make inputs. The depicted pattern on cosmetic layer1102includes symbols corresponding to increasing and decreasing a setting. In some embodiments, the plus and minus signs can apply to raising the volume or skipping tracks in a song. For example, a long press of the plus can be configured to increase volume while a short press could skip to the next track of a media playlist. Cosmetic layer1102can be coupled to adhesive layer1104. Adhesive layers1104can join cosmetic layer to wedge1106and wedge1106to touch/LED board1108. Adhesive layers1104can define a number of openings configured to reduce any attenuation in the touch signals caused by adhesive layers1104. Wedge1106can define the convex geometry of user interface1100. A dielectric constant of wedge1106can be tuned to efficiently pass touch inputs from cosmetic layer1102to touch/LED board1108. It should be noted that some of the openings defined by adhesive layers1104and wedge1106can be designed to accommodate fasteners1110, which secure touch/LED board1108to mounting frame1112. Light guides1114can be configured to direct light emitted by light sources coupled to touch/LED board1108toward cosmetic layer1102of user interface1100. In some embodiments, the openings defined by the different openings can be configured to allow light from LEDs disposed on touch/LED board1108to illuminate portions of cosmetic layer1102.

FIG. 11Bshows a cross-sectional view of assembled convex user interface1100. LEDs1116are depicted on upper and lower surfaces of touch/LED board1108. In this way, upper LED1116can shine light directly toward cosmetic layer1102. Lower LEDs1116shine light into a recess defined by mounting frame1112. The light emitted by lower LEDs1116can then be redirected by light guides1114toward other openings situated below the plus and minus indicators of cosmetic layer1102.

FIG. 11Cshows a cross-sectional view of array speaker100with convex user interface1100disposed at the top. Audio waves1118are shown being generated by the oscillation of subwoofer802in a vertical direction. In some embodiments, the oscillation can be aligned with a longitudinal axis of lower housing component208. In this instance, the term aligned is used to mean that the direction of motion is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of lower housing component208. Audio waves1118are configured to exit array speaker100through vents1120. Main logic board1122is shown secured to a bottom surface of convex user interface1100. Main logic board1122can include one or more heat generating components such as a processor. Audio waves1118incident to main logic board1122can dissipate heat generated by the heat generating components of main logic board1122. In some embodiments, heat generated by touch/LED board1108can be conducted to main logic board1122, where the heat can be convectively dissipated by the air displaced by audio waves1118. In some embodiments, subwoofer802can be configured to operate at a sub-sonic frequency designed to maximize the amount of air pushed past main logic board1122, when heat dissipation is a priority. In some embodiments, array speaker100can include various sensors within above subwoofer802that identify high heat loading conditions that could result in heat dissipation becoming a priority. For example, a heat sensor could be affixed to a surface of main logic board1122. Furthermore, various flow rate sensors could be positioned between subwoofer802and vents1120to identify any vent blockages. Subwoofer802can also be configured to oscillate at a frequency that generates haptic feedback along an exterior surface of convex user interface100. For example, subwoofer802could be commanded to operate at the frequency that generates the haptic feedback in response to one or more different types of user inputs.

FIG. 11Calso shows seal1124, which is configured to seal the back volume of subwoofer802. Seal1124can be useful in preventing upper housing component1126from buzzing against lower housing component208.FIG. 11Calso shows vibration ring1125, which twists along threads1128. Vibration ring1125formed of polymeric material that twists down until it engages channels defined by alignment brackets402of driver housings204of each driver in order to discourage vibration of audio driver assemblies202. In some embodiments, vibration ring1125can include at least three rows of threads around the periphery of vibration ring1125.

FIG. 12Ashows a perspective view of seal1124. Seal1124is arranged in a loop and capable of forming a seal around an audio component secured to lower housing component208. Seal1124is configured to seal across parting lines and absorb tolerances of injection molded plastic parts. Seal1124can be made up of multiple layers.FIG. 12Bshows a cross-sectional view of seal1124in accordance with section line C-C. The cross-sectional view shows how two compliant foam layers1202can be joined together by a stiff plastic layer1204. The stiff plastic layer1204can make the installation more reliable by helping to retain the shape of seal1124. This design can provide better performance at lower cost than a typical O-ring.FIG. 12Cshows a close-up view of seal1124arranged between upper housing component1126and support halo1206.

FIGS. 13A-13Bshow how upper housing component1126can be attached to lower housing component208. Both upper and lower housing components1126and208include a number of discrete threading segments. The threading segments are arranged on an exterior-facing surface of upper housing component1126and an interior-facing surface of lower housing component208. In order to attach upper and lower housing components1126and208together, threading segment1302of upper housing component1126can be aligned with threading segment1304of lower housing component208. Upper housing component1126can then be lowered until the threading segments1302and1304contact each other. Upper housing component1126can then be twisted to shift threading segment1302to the right until threading segment1302clears threading segment1304and then contacts threading segment1306. Once threading segment1302contacts threading segment1306upper housing component1126can be twisted in the opposite direction to move threading segment1302to the left until threading segment1302clears threading segment1306and contacts threading segment1308. Upper housing component1126can continue to move in alternating directions until threading segment1310is secured against locking surface1312of threading segment1314. Threading segment1310can have a locking feature1316configured to engage locking surface1312. Locking feature1316is able to deflect due to an area surrounding locking feature1316being removed from upper housing component1126.FIG. 13Bshows upper housing component1126locked against lower housing component208by interaction between locking surface1312and locking feature1316.

FIGS. 14A-14Dshow cantilevered foot230.FIG. 14Ashows cantilevered foot230just below array speaker100. Cantilevered foot230is configured to support the weight of array speaker100above a support surface and to dissipate any vibrations propagating through array speaker100.FIG. 14Bshows a perspective view of cantilevered foot230. An interior layer1402of cantilevered foot230can be formed of a somewhat rigid but deflectable material such as polycarbonate. An exterior layer1404formed of a more compliant material such as silicone can be configured to dissipate vibrations transmitted to cantilevered foot230. Unfortunately, sometimes vibrations can be severe enough to cause bouncing or lateral shifting to occur with more standardized vibration dissipating feet.

FIG. 14Cshows a top view of cantilevered foot230and in particular, a section line D-D bisecting cantilevered foot230.FIG. 14Dshows interior layer1402and exterior layer1404. When a force1406acts upon cantilevered foot230, instead of a thickness of exterior layer1404being solely responsible for dissipating any vibrations propagated to cantilevered foot230, cantilevered arms1408flex radially to absorb some of force1406associated with the vibrations as depicted. This radial flexing results in the vertical vibrations being translated horizontally and substantially reducing the vertical vibrations. The other positive effect of the radial flexing is it places more of exterior layer1404in contact with the support surface, increasing the friction between cantilevered foot230and the support surface and consequently the resistance of array speaker to lateral shift. In some embodiments, cantilevered foot230and grommets1002work together to attenuate undesirable vibration of array speaker100. In some embodiments, annular foam1410can be added along a periphery of cantilevered foot230, which can be configured to prevent unwanted vibration of the periphery of cantilevered foot230. In this way, foam1410is positioned to prevent vibrations that would otherwise generate distracting vibration when the speaker device generates audio waves likely to resonate within cantilevered foot230.

FIG. 15shows an exploded view of an alternative convex user interface1500that differs in some respects from the user interface depicted inFIGS. 11A-11C. In particular, convex user interface1500includes two distinct illuminated, touch interface regions. User interface1500includes a mounting frame1502, which defines a channel1503running along a circumference of mounting frame1502. Channel1503can be configured to receive a drawstring associated with acoustic fabric covering array speaker100. Channel1503allows each end of the drawstring to be conveniently wrapped around mounting frame1502along channel1503. Mounting frame1502also defines multiple recesses1504configured to receive and accommodate light emitting components. In particular, the light emitting components include LED array board1506and light sources1508. LED array board1506includes an array of LEDs1510. Each of LEDs1510can be configured to emit three or more colors of light. LEDs1510can also be configured to cooperatively generate various designs associated with a first touch interface region. Light sources1508can each include one or more LEDs for emitting one or more colors of light associated with a second touch interface region. Interposer board1512can be configured to set a standoff distance between LED array board1506and touch printed circuit board (PCB)1514. Interposer board1512can define openings that allow light generated by LEDs1510to pass through interposer board1512. Interposer board1512can take the form of an electrically insulating layer having electrically conductive edge plating arranged along its periphery for routing power and signals between touch PCB1514and LED array board1506. In this way, light emitted by LEDs1510can be modulated in accordance with touch inputs processed by components associated with touch PCB1514. Touch PCB1514defines a number of apertures through which light generated by the light emitting components generate. In particular, volume control openings1516can have the shape of plus and minus symbols associated with increasing and decreasing respectively the volume of the speaker system associated with user interface1500.

FIG. 15also shows fasteners1518, which can be configured to secure touch PCB1514to mounting frame1502. In some embodiments, fasteners1518can be self-tapping screws that form threads within openings defined by mounting frame1502. Touch PCB1514can be coupled to wedge1520by adhesive layer1522. Both adhesive layer1522and wedge1520can include openings through which light emitted by the light-emitting components can pass. Adhesive layer1522and wedge1520can also include openings to accommodate the head portions of fasteners1518. Wedge1520, which has a substantially thicker central region than its peripheral region, can be configured to give user interface1500its curved or convex exterior geometry. The central region of wedge1520includes an opening for accommodating a diffuser assembly1523configured to spread light received from LEDs1510. Diffuser assembly1523includes a lens array1524having discrete diffusing optics for each of LEDs1510. In some embodiments, lens array1524can take the form of a single piece of glass spreading the light from each of LEDs1510. In other embodiments, lens array1524can include multiple discrete lenses that spread the light. Lens array1524can be secured to touch PCB1514by adhesive foam ring1526. In some embodiments, touch plate1528can be secured to a downward facing surface of lens array1524. Openings defined by touch plate1528can accommodate lens protrusions of lens array1524. Touch plate1528can take the form of a thin, electrically conductive plate that improves the capacitive coupling for touch inputs received by user interface1500. Touch plate can be electrically coupled to touch PCB1514. In some embodiments, the flat surface of touch plate1514can include a touch sensor that is optimized for reading the inputs made at the convex cosmetic touch surface of user interface1500. For example, a density of a sensing grid associated with touch plate1514can have a varied density that allows inputs made to be adjusted for the curvature at the exterior surface. In this way, a consistent user input can be achieved across the entire exterior touch surface of user interface1500, thereby avoiding the situation in which touch inputs are read at a different speed in the center than along a periphery of the touch sensor. An upward-facing surface of lens array1524can be secured to a first diffuser plate1530by adhesive strips1532arranged along the periphery of lens array1524. A layer of diffuser film1534for additional light spreading can be positioned between first diffuser plate1530and lens array1524. First diffuser plate1530can also be configured to increase the amount of diffusion of the light emitted by LEDs1510.

In some embodiments, first diffuser plate1530can be formed from a clear polycarbonate resin that is doped with particles having a different index of refraction than the clear polycarbonate resin. For example, the polycarbonate resin could be doped with Titanium Oxide particles that both give a white appearance to first diffuser plate1530and help to further diffuse the light passing through first diffuser plate1530. First diffuser plate1530is secured to a second diffuser plate1536by adhesive strips1532arranged along the periphery of first diffuser plate1530. Adhesive strips1532can be sized to create a small air gap between the first and second diffuser plates. Second diffuser plate1536can have a dome-shaped surface helping diffuser assembly1523achieve the same curvature as wedge1520. Finally a fade film1538can be applied to an upward facing surface of second diffuser plate1536. Fade film can take the form of a radially graduated filter that feathers the intensity of light along a periphery of the light emitted by LEDs1510. In this way, fade film1538prevents adhesive layer1540from abruptly shifting from illuminated to unilluminated in a central region of a top cap1542. Top cap1542can take the form of a layer of glass or transparent polymer material such as a polycarbonate material. In some embodiments, top cap1542can include a layer of ink that further diffuses light passing through top cap1542. In some embodiments, light emitted by LEDs1510and diffused by the aforementioned diffusive elements can cooperatively generate a mix of light having a diameter of about three centimeters.

FIG. 16Ashows a downward facing surface of lens array1524. As depicted, lens array1524takes the form of a single piece of shaped glass having discrete optics for multiple different light sources. In particular, lens array1524includes protruding lenses1602for diffusing light from19LEDs1510that are arranged in a honeycomb pattern. It should be appreciated that a larger or smaller number of LEDs1510could be accommodated by lens array1524. Furthermore, protruding lenses1602could be arranged in an irregular pattern or a different regular pattern such as a rectangular grid.

FIG. 16Bshows a cross-sectional side view of a portion of convex user interface1500that includes lens array1524in accordance with section line E-E. It should be noted that the adhesive layers have been omitted from this view for clarity. In particular LEDs1510are shown attached to LED array board1506. Five LEDs1510are shown emitting light into lens array1524. Protruding lenses1602of lens array1524diffuse the light received from LEDs1510prior to the light entering first and second diffuser plates1530and1536. As depicted, each of protruding lenses1602include a concave surface oriented toward a respective one of LEDs1510. The diffuser plates can be configured to further diffuse this light prior to the light exiting through top cap1542. By the time the light exits through top cap1542, the light emitted from each LED1510can be mixed with light from adjacent ones of LEDs1510. In this way, a relatively small number of LEDs can cooperate to produce a mixed pattern of lights at an exterior surface defined by top cap1542. In some embodiments, the light appearing along the surface can have a total diameter of about 30 mm and light from each LED1510can be spread across a diameter of about 7 mm.

FIG. 17Ashows a cross-sectional, exploded view of an expandable opening defined by one end of fabric1700. Fabric1700can take the form of a tube having a fixed size opening at a first end and elastic and/or expandable second end.FIG. 17Adepicts the second expandable end. Fabric layers1702,1704and1706can be configured to provide a cosmetically pleasing exterior surface for a speaker device without inhibiting the passage of audio waves generated by the speaker device. Fabric layers1702,1704and1706can be formed of materials such as polyester, nylon and polyurethane. In some embodiments, fabric layer1702can have a diamond shaped pattern defining an array of diamond shaped openings that limit the amount of resistance generated by fabric layer1702. Fabric layer1702can be adhered to fabric layer1704by adhesive layer1708. While adhesive layer1708is depicted as a solid layer it should be appreciated that the adhesive can be formed to have the same pattern as fabric layer1702. In this way, an exterior surface of fabric1700can be free of exposed adhesive material. An inner lip of fabric layer1704can be coupled to fabric layer1706by adhesive ring1710. Fabric layer1706can then be secured to upper housing component1126(not shown, seeFIG. 13B). In this way, fabric1700can be securely coupled to the speaker device.

FIG. 17Aalso shows stitched threading1712. In some embodiments, stitched threading1712can be sewn to a lip of fabric layer1702. Stitched threading1712can take the form of a fiber arranged in a number of loops arranged along a lip of fabric1700and sized to accommodate drawstring1714. Drawstring1714can be threaded through the openings defined by the loops of stitched threading1712. By pulling on or releasing both ends of drawstring1714the lip of fabric1700the opening can be expanded or contracted in order to respectively install and remove fabric1700from the speaker device.

FIG. 17Bshows a cross-sectional view of fabric assembly1700fully adhered together and how both ends of drawstring1714can protrude from the same radial position of fabric assembly1700. Drawstring1714can be long enough to wrap around a mounting frame associated with a user interface of the speaker device, which allows for the drawstring to smoothly contract the opening1716defined by fabric1700. In some embodiments, stitched fabric1712and drawstring1714can be replaced by an elastic loop insert-molded around the lip of fabric1700. The elastic loop can act similarly to a rubber band and have the resilience to securely keep the fabric in place while also allowing the fabric defining opening1716to be expanded for removal of fabric assembly1700off of the speaker device.

FIG. 17Cshows a top view of fabric assembly1700installed around a portion of upper housing component1126.FIG. 17Cshows drawstrings1714only partially tightened, leaving an annular gap between the opening defined by fabric assembly1700and the opening defined by upper housing component1126.FIG. 17Dshows how drawstring1714can be routed through an opening1708defined by mounting frame1502and then tightened causing fabric assembly1700to cinch evenly around a periphery of mounting frame1502.

FIG. 18shows an exploded view of a halo assembly1800. Halo assembly includes an upper ring1802and a lower ring1804that are coupled together by fasteners1806. Both upper and lower rings1802and1804respectively define cooperatively define threading around their periphery. The threading allows the rings to twist into place within an interior volume of a speaker housing. The bottom surface of upper ring1802and the top surface of lower ring1804have complementary geometries that allow the two rings to be radially aligned. Furthermore, when the rings are radially aligned the peripheral threading continues smoothly across the interface between the two rings. For example, lower ring includes ramp feature1808, which aligns with recessed feature1810, when the two rings are radially aligned. Radial alignment of rings1802and1804also results in fastener openings1812being aligned with fastener openings1814. Upper ring1802can include additional openings adjacent to each of openings1812, which are configured to receive additional fasteners for securing other internal components to halo assembly1800. An interior facing surface of upper ring1802can include protrusions helping to thicken portions of upper ring1802that include openings configured to receive fasteners. Halo assembly1800also includes seal1124, which can be positioned within groove1816and function to prevent audio waves from propagating around the periphery of halo assembly1800.

FIG. 18also depicts flex connector1820. Flex connector assembly1820can be configured to electrically couple components distributed throughout a speaker enclosure. In particular, flex connector assembly can extend through opening1818in upper ring1802to reach electrical component connectors disposed above halo assembly1800. In some embodiments, ring1804can also include an opening aligned with opening1818to allow for the passage of flex connector substrate1822. Flex connector substrate1822can take the form of a polyimide substrate. In some embodiments, flex connector assembly1820includes board to board connector1824that is configured to electrically couple with an electrical component such as touch PCB1514(seeFIG. 15). Flex connector assembly1820can include other connectors such as connector1826that is configured to be electrically coupled with speaker drivers at the lower end of an associated speaker device.

FIG. 19shows a partial cross-sectional view of a speaker device with halo assembly1800installed therein. Upper ring1802is depicted in direct contact with lower ring1804. Fastener1806is shown securing upper ring1802and lower ring1804together after rotating the two rings along threads1902of housing component208. Prior to fastener1806securing the upper and lower rings1802and1804together, threading1904and1906could fit somewhat loosely between threading1902. In this way, halo assembly is configured to rotate easily into housing component208. Once the correct position has been achieved, fastener1806causes threading1904and1906to bear against threading1902, which secures halo assembly in place and prevents vibration of halo assembly1800relative to housing component208.FIG. 19also shows how fastener1004associated with flange1006secures flange1006of subwoofer802to upper ring1802of halo assembly1800.

FIG. 20shows how upper housing component1126can be secured to halo assembly1800by fastener2002. Upper housing component1126can include a fastener opening allowing fastener2002to extend vertically through upper housing component1126and engage upper ring1802of halo assembly1800. A cosmetic plug2004can be inserted in a recess that surrounds the opening configured to accommodate fastener2002. Cosmetic plug2004prevents a fabric covering from protruding into the recess and adversely affecting the cosmetic appearance of the speaker device.FIG. 20also shows how seal1124can be positioned between upper ring1802and lower housing component208, which is operative to prevent audio waves from propagating around a periphery of upper ring1802. The speaker can also include seal2006, positioned between upper ring1802and flange1006, that can help prevent audio waves from propagating through a central opening of upper ring1802.FIG. 20also illustrates the relative position of stepped threading1302of upper housing component1126and stepped threading1304of lower housing component208.

FIG. 21shows a perspective view of an alternative upper housing component. Upper housing component2100includes diamond shaped vents2102. Diamond shaped vents2102can have a shape similar to a pattern of acoustic fabric covering upper housing component2100. Even when diamond shaped vents2102are substantially larger than the pattern of the acoustic fabric, having a similar pattern results in the pattern contours being aligned. This alignment can make the vent openings beneath the acoustic fabric substantially less likely to be seen by a user of a speaker device associated with upper housing component2100. In some embodiments, the pattern of the acoustic fabric could be aligned with vents2102. For example, the acoustic fabric could be aligned so that a pattern of 4 or 16 diamond patterns is aligned within each of vents2102. In this way the edges of the patterns could be aligned, further reducing the likelihood of vents2102being visible to a user. Upper housing component2100can also include protruding support members2104configured to support a convex user interface along the lines of convex user interface1500as depicted inFIG. 15.

FIG. 22shows a diagram indicating different types of connected electronics that can communicate and/or interact with array speaker100. In some embodiments, array speaker100can act as a central hub to facilitate home automation. Memory on-board array speaker100or memory accessible through a network, which is accessible by array speaker100, can be used to store rules governing the interaction of the various depicted device types. Array speaker can then send instructions to the disparate devices in accordance with the stored rules. Microphones disposed within array speaker100can be configure to receive voice commands to carry out specific actions related to connected electronics within a user's home. In some embodiments, convex user interface can receive commands for adjusting various settings on a particular connected electronic device. For example, array speaker100can be configured to receive commands to make adjustments to smart locking device2202. In some embodiments, array speaker100can include instructions allowing it to lock and unlock smart locking device2202in response to a voice command. Furthermore, array speaker100can be configured to alert occupants within a house that smart locking device2202has been unlocked. In some embodiments, array speaker100can announce the identity of the user who unlocked smart locking device2202. In such a circumstance, smart locking device2202can be configured to open in response to a command received from an electronic device such as a mobile phone. Array speaker100can then identify the user when a user is associated with that mobile phone. In some embodiments, array speaker100can be configured to interact with other devices in response to actuation of smart locking device2202. For example, array speaker could direct the illumination of one or more of lights2204and adjust a temperature of an HVAC system associated with smart thermometer2206in response to the unlocking event.

FIG. 22also shows communication between array speaker100and smart garage opener2208. In response to detecting an opening event of smart garage opener2208, array speaker could be configured to perform similar actions described above with respect to the operation of smart locking device2202. In some embodiments, different ones of lights2204could be illuminated in anticipation of the user entering the housing from a different direction.

Array speaker100could also be configured to operate different smart devices in accordance with various calendar events associated with an electronic calendar. For example, array speaker could be configured to disable surveillance camera2210during an event located in the same room as surveillance camera2210when that event is marked as private. Array speaker could also be configured to notify one or more users if window sensor2212indicates a window remains open after a particular time of day or night. In some embodiments, array speaker100can act as a media hub cooperating with other components such as television/monitor2214to present both video and audio content in response to various user inputs and/or smart device activities. For example, televisions/monitor2214could present a status screen and/or progress monitor indicating the status and/or activity being performed by other components that may or may not have the ability to present a graphical interface to a user of array speaker100. In some embodiments, array speaker could be configured to remotely direct refrigerator2216to send the user images of interior areas of refrigerator2216shortly before a user has a grocery shopping trip scheduled. While these various operations could be stored in internal memory of array speaker100, array speaker100can also be in communication with a cloud service provider helping to coordinate various activities with users that may or may not be connected with a local area network with array speaker100. For example, a user could connect remotely with array speaker100with a device such as a smart phone to activate certain tasks for smart components with which array speaker100is in communication.

In some embodiments, array speaker can be configured to interact with wearable display2218. Wearable display2218can take the form of augmented reality or virtual reality goggles that present digital content to a user. When wearable display2218is an augmented reality display, wearable display2218can overlay various control interfaces around array speaker100. For example, virtual content could overlay convex user interface atop array speaker100to make the user interface larger. In some embodiments, the enlarged user interface could include an expanded display and enlarged control manipulation regions that allow a user to control array speaker100with more efficiently and/or with a greater degree of options. For example, user interface could be configured to display a virtual graphics equalizer allowing a user to increase or reduce treble and/or bass output associated with the audio being generated by array speaker100. In some embodiments, a user could be presented with an overlay that visualized the various regions of the room covered by each of a number of speaker drivers contained within array speaker100. The user could then be able to adjust audio output specific to a particular region associated with one or more speaker drivers. For example, the user could identify only the depicted regions containing individuals listening to the audio output from array speaker100. Furthermore, the user could reduce the audio output for a first user positioned in a first region of the array speaker associated with a first audio driver and increase the audio output for a second user positioned in a second region of the array speaker associated with a second audio driver. In this way, listeners can enjoy audio at a desired volume and the virtual interface allows the user to quickly identify the regions within which various listeners are located. In some embodiments, array speaker100can include various indicia that help circuitry and sensors associated with wearable display2218to orient the virtual content relative to array speaker100. For example, since array speaker100is cylindrical it could be difficult to determine a radial position of each of the speaker drivers within array speaker100. Small indicia such as decorative symbols could be embedded within acoustic fabric covering array speaker100. In this way, the various listening zones could be more accurately associated with array speaker100. In some embodiments, array speaker100can include optical sensors configured to identify the position of various listeners in a room and then change the audio output to improve the audio experience for the identified listeners.

In some embodiments, wearable display device can be configured to receive optical commands from array speaker100. For example, a display associated with a user interface can be configured to output particular patterns of light. Optical sensors of wearable display device2218can identify the patterns of light and in response vary the display in some manner. For example, the type, size and orientation of virtual controls displayed by wearable display2218can be varied in accordance with the output of the display associated with the user interface.

FIG. 23shows a block diagram illustrating communication and interoperability between various electrical components of array speaker100. Processor2302can be in communication with the depicted electrical components. User interface2304can receive user inputs that are then received by processor2302. In response to the user inputs, processor2302can interpret and relay signals corresponding to the received user inputs to other electrical components. For example, user interface can receive user inputs directing an increase in output of both subwoofer2306and audio driver assemblies2308. In some embodiments, the electrical components can all be linked together by electrically conductive pathways established by components such as flex connector1820, which is able to route electrical signals to various electrical components distributed throughout a device housing of array speaker100. Array speaker100can also include display system2312. Display system2312can be configured to provide visual feedback to a user of array speaker100. For example, the visual feedback can be provided in response to interaction with a voice assistant such as the Siri® voice assistant produced by Apple Inc., of Cupertino, Calif. In some embodiments, an array of colorful mosaic patterns could be presented while a voice request is being processed and/or as the voice assistant is waiting for the voice request. Array speaker can also include a computer readable medium2314. Computer readable medium2314can be configured to store or at least cache an amount of media files for playback by subwoofer2306and audio driver assemblies2308. In some embodiments, the media files stored on computer readable medium2314can include, e.g., movies, TV shows, pictures, audio recordings and music videos. In some embodiments, a video portion of a media file can be transmitted to another device for display by wireless communication system2316. This could be desirable even when display system2312is showing the video portion since another device may have a larger or more easily viewable display for a particular user. For example, the other display device could be selected in accordance with a user's position within a room.

FIG. 23also shows RAM/ROM component2318. RAM/ROM component2318can include RAM (random access memory) for short term caching of frequently used information and/or information cued just prior to playback. ROM (read only memory) can be used to store computer code such as device drivers and lower level code used in the basic operation of array speaker100. In some embodiments, RAM/ROM component2318can take the form of two separate components.

FIG. 23also shows how array speaker100can also include a sensor array2320that includes microphones, proximity sensors, touch sensors, accelerometers and the like. Microphones of sensor array2320could be configured to monitor for voice commands. In some embodiments, the microphones could be configured to process voice commands only after recognizing a command phrase indicating the user's intent to issue a voice command. Microphones can be interspersed radially along the outside of the device housing so that the housing doesn't mask or obscure the voice commands. Multiple microphones can also be utilized to triangulate a position of a user within the room. In certain instances it may be desirable to optimize audio output or cue additional smart devices (seeFIG. 22) in accordance with a determined location of the user.

In addition to identifying a user's location by triangulation with spatially dispersed microphones, proximity sensors can be distributed along the exterior surface of array speaker100in order to help identify the presence of users and/or obstructions surrounding array speaker100. In some embodiments, the proximity sensors can be configured to emit infrared pulses that help characterize objects surrounding array speaker100. The pulses reflected back to the sensor can be processed by processor2302, which can then make a characterization of any objects surrounding array speaker100. In some embodiments, an audio output of array speaker100can be adjusted in situations where surrounding objects substantially change the expected audio output of array speaker100. For example, if array speaker100is positioned against a wall or column the infrared sensors could identify the obstruction and attenuate or cease output of speaker drivers pointed toward the wall or column. The reflected pulses and audio triangulation data can be combined to further refine the position of a user delivering instructions to array speaker100. Sensor array2320can also include touch sensors that allow a user to input commands along an exterior surface of array speaker100. For example, touch PCB1514of the convex user interface depicted inFIG. 15is configured to detect user gestures made along top cap1542and interpret the gestures as various instructions to be carried out by one or more components of array speaker100.

Sensor array2320can also include one or more accelerometers. The accelerometers can be configured to measure any tilt of array speaker100with respect to a gravitational reference frame. Since array speaker100is optimized to evenly distribute audio content in a room when positioned on a flat surface, placing array speaker100on an inclined or declined surface could negatively impact the acoustic output of array speaker100. In response to the accelerometer determining array speaker100is tilted at an angle of greater than 2 degrees, array speaker could be configured to prompt the user to find a flatter surface to place array speaker on. Alternatively, array speaker can be configured to alter the sound output to compensate for the tilted angle. In some embodiments, accelerometers could also be configured to monitor for any resonant vibrations within array speaker100. Processor2302could then be configured to adjust the audio output to help subwoofer2306and/or audio driver assemblies2308avoid or reduce the generation of frequencies that cause array speaker100to vibrate at one or more resonant frequencies.

The various aspects, embodiments, implementations or features of the described embodiments can be used separately or in any combination. Various aspects of the described embodiments can be implemented by software, hardware or a combination of hardware and software. The described embodiments can also be embodied as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling operation of the array speaker. In some embodiments, the computer readable medium can include code for interacting with other connected devices within a user's home. For example, the array speaker could be configured to use its ambient light sensor to identify human activity and to learn when to activate and deactivate certain devices within the user's home. The computer readable medium is any data storage device that can store data, which can thereafter be read by a computer system. Examples of the computer readable medium include read-only memory, random-access memory, CD-ROMs, HDDs, DVDs, magnetic tape, and optical data storage devices. The computer readable medium can also be distributed over network-coupled computer systems so that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion.