AU2023202012A1 - Shroud and Speaker Assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides a speaker assembly (210) comprising a speaker cover (11) having an inner surface (35) to which a speaker (13) and a shroud (212) are mounted. The speaker cover comprises at least two clip structures (250) on the inner surface of the speaker cover to retain the speaker on the speaker cover and for mounting the speaker cover with respect to an opening in a ceiling or a wall. The shroud is adapted to co-operate with the speaker cover to encapsulate the speaker whereupon the speaker is enclosed within the speaker cover and the shroud.

Description

Shroud and Speaker Assembly

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a shroud and a speaker assembly comprising the shroud, wherein the shroud acts to protect the rear components of a speaker.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Public address systems installed in buildings and other structures utilise loud speakers connected to a public address amplifier from which signals are transmitted to the loud speakers. Each loud speaker incorporates a transformer to match the speaker impedance with the output impedance of the amplifier. The transformer incorporates a terminal block, a capacitor, and a plurality of terminals, the arrangement being that the capacitor is electrically connected to one of the exposed terminals according to the performance characteristics required for the loud speaker.

[0003] The public address systems are primarily installed to convey important messages to people within the building. The most important of these messages relate to evacuations of the building during an emergency, such as a fire. In these situations it is critical that the public address system remains operational such that evacuation instructions can continue to be conveyed via the public address system.

[0004] Currently the speakers of public address systems have minimal protection from excessive temperatures, such as may be caused by a fire, and minimal resistance to water, such as may result from firemen fighting a fire, or the sprinkler system of a building. As a result components of the speaker are liable to melt, in the case of a fire, or short circuit, as a result of water ingress. In either situation, the integrity of the speaker is compromised which will, highly likely, result in the malfunction of the speaker.

[0005] Another danger with present speaker arrangements is the exposed nature of the rear of the speaker. This presents a possibility that a person working in the roof cavity might inadvertently contact the exposed connectors and receive a shock.

[0006] The preceding discussion of the background art is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention only. The discussion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to is or was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of the application.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0007] The present invention seeks to provide a shroud which can be fitted to the rear of a speaker for the purposes of protecting the components of the speaker.

[0008] The present invention further seeks to provide a speaker assembly comprising a shroud which encapsulates the rear of a speaker for the purposes of protecting the components of the speaker.

[0009] Generally the speaker to which the present invention is used with is mounted with respect to a hole in a surface, such as a wall or a ceiling. The hole may be created in the wall/ceiling, or may be provided by a separate housing which is first secured to the wall/ceiling and provides the hole to which the speaker assembly can be mounted.

[0010] The present invention provides a speaker assembly comprising a speaker cover having an inner surface to which a speaker and a shroud are mounted, the speaker cover comprising at least two clip structures on the inner surface of the speaker cover to retain the speaker on the speaker cover and for mounting the speaker cover with respect to an opening in a ceiling or a wall, wherein the shroud is adapted to co operate with the speaker cover to encapsulate the speaker whereupon the speaker is enclosed within the speaker cover and the shroud.

[0011] The present invention further provides a shroud adapted to be fitted to a speaker cover such that when fitted to the speaker cover, the shroud and the speaker cover co-operate to encapsulate a speaker mounted on the speaker cover.

[0012] The present invention further provides a shroud adapted to be positioned over the rear of a speaker.

[0013] In one aspect of the invention, the shroud comprises at least one screw gland through which speaker cables protrude such that a first end of the cables can be connected to an amplifier or similar. A second end of the speaker cables may be connected to the speaker. Alternatively the cables from the amplifier or similar may pass through the at least one screw gland for connection to the terminal of the speaker. The at least one screw gland clamps the cables in place while sealing the shroud so as to prevent/minimise the ingress of water therethrough.

[0014] In another aspect of the invention the shroud has a set of terminals on the outside of the shroud, wherein the shroud is adapted to engage the terminals of the speaker as the shroud is positioned on the cover, such that the terminals of the speaker are connected to the terminals of the shroud. With this arrangement the installer can connect cables between the terminals of the shroud and the amplifier or similar and then position the shroud on the cover whereupon the speaker is connected to the amplifier.

[0015] Preferably the shroud is made from a material having fire resistant characteristics, such that the speaker is able to withstand higher temperatures compared to a speaker without a shroud.

[0016] Preferably the shroud is made so as to render the rear of the speaker relatively splash proof once the shroud is installed on the speaker cover.

[0017] Preferably once the shroud is mounted on the speaker cover the speaker is shielded from excessive temperatures and water, which would otherwise compromise the ability of the speaker to function.

[0018] Preferably the shroud is frictionally received on the speaker cover such that the shroud is retained on the speaker cover by the frictional engagement between the shroud and the speaker cover.

[0019] The rear surface of the cover may provide a projection extending upwardly therefrom, the projection being spaced from the centre such that a periphery of the shroud snugly engages an inside surface of the projection as the shroud is received on the speaker cover. In this regard the frictional contact between the shroud and the projection releasably retains the shroud on the speaker cover. Alternatively the projection is spaced from the centre such that a periphery of the shroud snugly engages an outside surface of the projection. The projection may be in the form of a wall, part wall, or a plurality of tabs.

[0020] The present invention further provides a speaker assembly comprising a speaker cover to which a speaker and a shroud are mounted, the speaker cover comprising at least two clip structures on an inner surface of a body of the cover to retain the speaker on the body and for mounting the body with respect to an opening in a ceiling or a wall, wherein the shroud is adapted to co-operate with the cover to encapsulate the speaker.

[0021] The present invention further provides a speaker assembly comprising a speaker cover to which a speaker and a shroud are mounted, the speaker cover comprising at least two clip structures on an inner surface of a body of the cover, wherein the shroud is adapted to co-operate with the cover to encapsulate the speaker.

[0022] Each clip structure may comprise a clip tab which co-operates with the shroud to secure the shroud to the speaker cover. The side wall of the shroud or alternatively the clip tab, may be deflected as the shroud passes the clip structure. The sidewall/ clip tab may return to its normal position when the shroud is positioned on the inner surface of the cover. When the shroud is in position an end of the clip tab engages a ledge, a shoulder, an indentation or similar on the shroud to releasably hold the shroud in position.

[0023] Preferably each clip structure comprises a mounting clip and a locking means, the mounting clip being adapted to be movable between a first position and a second position to facilitate passage of the clip structure through the opening, wherein the locking means releasably locks the mounting clip in the second position, the locking means being adapted to release the mounting clip during installation of the speaker cover whereupon release the mounting clip moves toward the first position to hold the speaker assembly in an installed position.

[0024] Preferably the locking means releases the mounting clip as the clip structure passes through the opening, allowing the mounting clip to move towards the first position.

[0025] Preferably the mounting clip is resiliently deflected inwardly from the first position to the second position.

[0026] Preferably the speaker cover further comprises a securing means to retain the speaker with respect to the speaker cover.

[0027] Preferably the securing means is in the form of one or more securing clips.

[0028] The locking means may be in the form of at least one resiliently deflectable latch adapted to releasably lock the mounting clip in its second position when it is deflected thereto.

[0029] Each clip structure may also comprise a first clip adapted to resiliently locate against the peripheral surface of the opening, a first surface of the opening or an edge of the opening.

[0030] The present invention further provides a speaker assembly comprising a speaker cover to which a speaker and a shroud are mounted, the speaker cover comprising:

at least two clip structures on an inner surface of the speaker cover for mounting the speaker cover with respect to an opening in a ceiling or wall, to retain the speaker on the speaker cover, and to retain the shroud on the speaker cover, each clip structure comprising a clip tab which engages the shroud, a mounting clip and a locking means;

wherein the shroud is adapted to co-operate with the cover to encapsulate the speaker.

[0031] Preferably the mounting clip is adapted to be deflected inwardly towards a second position to facilitate passage of the clip structure through the opening in the surface and subsequently released to return towards a first position such that the mounting clip holds the body in an installed position.

[0032] Preferably the locking means releasably locks the mounting clip in the second position, the locking means releasing the mounting clip as the clip structure passes through the opening whereby the mounting clip moves toward the first position.

[0033] Each clip structure may comprise a securing means to secure the speaker to the cover.

[0034] Each cover may comprise a securing means to secure the speaker to the cover.

[0035] Preferably the securing means comprises one or more securing clips, the securing clip having a retaining portion which is adapted for resilient deflection away from the central region of the speaker cover as the speaker is positioned onto the speaker cover, before returning to a retaining position, so that a region or end of the retaining portion retains the speaker with respect to the body;

[0036] Preferably the locking means is in the form of an at least one resilient arm incorporating a hook, wherein the hook is adapted to latch on to an edge incorporated in the mounting clip. The at least one arm may present an inclined surface angled towards the body in a direction outwardly from the central region.

[0037] Preferably the inclined surface is adapted to engage an edge of the opening when the speaker cover and speaker are being positioned in the opening.

[0038] The inclined surface may be adapted to engage the opening, forcing it to move inwardly, whereupon the mounting clip is unlocked, allowing it to move towards the first position.

[0039] The present invention further provides a speaker cover for mounting a speaker and a shroud thereon, the speaker cover comprising:

a projection extending rearwardly from an inner surface of the speaker cover upon which the speaker is mounted, the projection frictionally engaging the shroud to retain the shroud thereon;

a clip structure for mounting a body with respect to an opening in a surface, the clip structure comprising a mounting clip and a locking means;

the mounting clip is adapted to be deflected inwardly from a first position to a second position to facilitate passage of the clip structure through the opening in the surface and subsequently released to return towards the first position such that the mounting clip holds the body in an installed position; wherein the locking means releasably locks the mounting clip in the second position, the locking means releases the mounting clip as the clip structure passes through the opening to allow the mounting clip to move towards the first position.

[0040] The present invention further provides a speaker cover for mounting a speaker and a shroud thereon, the speaker cover comprising:

a projection extending rearwardly from an inner surface of the speaker cover upon which the speaker is mounted, the projection frictionally engaging the shroud to retain the shroud thereon;

a clip structure for mounting the body with respect to an opening in a surface, the clip structure comprising a mounting clip, a locking means and a tab;

the tab is adapted to be deflected inwardly from a first position to a second position as a portion of the shroud passes the clip structure and subsequently return towards the first position and engage a shoulder of the shroud such that the tab holds the shroud relative to the speaker cover;

the mounting clip is adapted to be deflected inwardly from a first position to a second position to facilitate passage of the clip structure through the opening in the surface and subsequently return towards the first position such that the mounting clip holds the speaker cover in an installed position;

wherein the locking means releasably locks the mounting clip in the second position, the locking means being adapted to release the mounting clip as the clip structure passes through the opening to allow the mounting clip to move towards the first position.

[0041] Preferably the cover further comprises a securing means to retain the speaker in engagement on the inner surface of a body.

[0042] In alternative embodiments the shroud may be shaped to closely mirror the profile of the speaker when on the speaker cover. In this regard the shroud may only be received in one orientation relative to the speaker. The speaker assembly may provide alignment means to readily align the shroud with respect to the speaker cover to ensure correct assembly. Alignment means may be in the form of indicia, or may be provided by angular spacing of the clip structures of the speaker cover and associated recesses of the shroud.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] Further features of the present invention are more fully described in the following description of several non-limiting embodiments thereof. This description is included solely for the purposes of exemplifying the present invention. It should not be understood as a restriction on the broad summary, disclosure or description of the invention as set out above. The description will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective side view of a speaker assembly according to a first embodiment of the invention, the speaker assembly comprising a speaker, a speakercoverand a shroud;

Figure 2 is a side view of figure 1 without the shroud;

Figure 3 is a view similar to figure 2 with the speaker cover in position in a ceiling and clip structure having moved towards a first position;

Figure 4 is a view similar to figure 2 showing the clip structure in the first position;

Figure 5 is a top perspective view of the shroud of the first embodiment;

Figure 6 is a bottom perspective view of the shroud of the first embodiment;

Figure 7 is a view of the speaker assembly with the shroud removed from the speakercover;

Figure 8 is a view similar to figure 7 wherein the shroud is received on the speakercover;

Figure 9 is a perspective side view of a speaker assembly according to a second embodiment of the invention, the speaker assembly comprising a speaker, a speaker cover and a shroud;

Figure 10 is a perspective side view of a speaker assembly according to a third embodiment of the invention, the speaker assembly comprising a speaker, a speaker cover and a shroud;

Figure 11 is a top perspective view of the shroud of the third embodiment;

Figure 12 is a bottom perspective view of the shroud of the third embodiment;

Figure 13 is a cross section side view through a clip structure of the speaker assembly of figure 9 (speaker not shown);

Figure 14 of is a perspective view of the clip structure shown in figure 13;

Figure 15 is a top view of a portion of the speaker assembly shown in figure 10;

Figure 16 is a perspective view of a speaker assembly of a fourth embodiment of the invention;

Figure 17 is a perspective view of the speaker assembly shown in figure 16 viewed from a different angle, wherein the shroud is aligned to be received over the speaker; and

Figure 18 is a view of a portion of the shroud shown in figure 16, the portion being that which receives the mounting clip structures.

[0044] In the drawings like structures are referred to by like numerals throughout the several views. The drawings shown are not necessarily to scale, with emphasis instead generally being placed upon illustrating the principles of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0045] The present invention provides a shroud which is adapted to co-operate with a speaker cover/grill to encapsulate a speaker. With this invention the speaker can still operate and emit sound through the apertures in the speaker cover, but the shroud now provides protection to the components of the speaker by providing a shield to heat and water. As a result the speaker is likely to survive longer in extreme conditions, such as during a fire, allowing the speaker to continue to broadcast emergency instructions.

[0046] Referring to figures 1 to 8, the invention according to a first embodiment is shown. In the first embodiment the invention is in the form of a speaker assembly 10 comprising a speaker cover 11, a shroud 12, and a speaker 13.

[0047] The shroud 12 is made from a material with high heat resistive characteristics. The shroud 12 receives the speaker through a shroud opening 25. The shroud 12 is formed/shaped to accommodate the rear components of the speaker 13. The shroud also comprises two screw glands 27 through which cables (not shown) can pass through before being tightened to prevent/minimise water from passing into the shroud 12 therethrough. The cables connect the speaker 13 to an amplifier or similar device. The shroud is formed with three recesses 29 extending from the shroud opening 25 along the side walls of the shroud. The recesses 29 are spaced around the shroud 12 so as to mirror the spacing of three mounting clip structures 50 incorporated in the speaker cover 11, as are described below.

[0048] When assembling the speaker assembly 10, the recesses 29 in the shroud 12 are aligned with each clip structure 50, and the shroud is slid into position. When the shroud is in position on the speaker cover 10, the shroud provides a relatively solid barrier, protecting the rear components of the speaker from heat and water damage.

[0049] The speaker cover 11 comprises a body which provides an outer surface 33 and the inner surface 35. A plurality of apertures 37 are provided in the central region of the body and extend between the outer and inner surfaces 33, 35 to facilitate transmission ofsound through the cover.

[0050] As represented in figure 3 the speaker assembly 10 is mountable in a hole 17 in a ceiling 15. In this embodiment the speaker assembly 10 is received in the ceiling such that it co-operates with the ceiling to retain the speaker 13 in the ceiling without the need for additional fastening means. It is, however, understood that alternative means of securing the speaker assembly 10 with respect to the ceiling 15, as would be obvious to a person skilled in the art, would fall within the scope of this invention.

[0051]The speaker cover 11 is provided with three mounting clip structures 50 for mounting the speaker cover 11 in position in the ceiling 15, and for securing the speaker 13 relative to the speaker cover 11, as best seen in Figures 2 and 3.

[0052] In this embodiment each mounting clip structure 50 is adapted to be mounted onto a mounting post 55 projecting from the inner surface 35 of the speaker cover 11. It is, however, understood that alternative means of securing the mounting clip structures with respect to the speaker cover 11, such as the mounting clip structures being formed integrally with the cover, would fall within the scope of this invention.

[0053] Each mounting clip structure 50 comprises a securing means in the form of a securing clip 151 and a clip structure 153, as shown in figures 5, 6 and 7.

[0054] The clip structure 153 comprises a mounting clip 155 and a locking means 157.

[0055] The mounting clip 155 has an inclined surface 71 for engaging an exposed surface 21 of the ceiling 15 in the region adjacent the hole 17 when the speaker assembly 10 is positioned in the hole 17.

[0056] The locking means 157 comprises a latch, in the form of a hook 159 incorporated in a resilient arm 161. The hook 159 is adapted to engage an edge 163 incorporated in the mounting clip 155 to retain the mounting clip 155 in a second position, as best shown in figure 2.

[0057] When installing the speaker assembly 10, the arm 161 is adapted to resiliently locate against a peripheral surface 25 of the hole 17, while the mounting clip 155 is adapted to resiliently locate against the junction of a second surface 23 of the ceiling with the peripheral surface 25, causing the ceiling to be clamped between a locating face 36 on the speaker cover 11, and the mounting clip 155. It is to be understood that whilst the interaction of the arm 161 with peripheral surface 25 assists in mounting the speaker assembly 10, speaker assembly 10 will still remain in place if the arm 161 did not engage the peripheral surface 25.

[0058] Also when the speaker cover 11 is fitted the mounting clip 155 occupies a first condition in which an outer section 259 is located beyond the outer periphery of the hole 17, as best shown in figure 4.

[0059] During installation of the speaker assembly 10 in the hole 17 the mounting clip 155 is deflected inwardly out of the first position until the hook 159 of the locking means 157 engages the edge so as to retain the mounting clip 155 in the second position. When in this position the outer section 259 is retained in a position which allows the speaker assembly 10 to be received in the hole 17 without the installer requiring to manually hold the mounting clip 155 in the second position during installation.

[0060] The arm 161 has an outer portion 165 which during installation engages the region of the exposed surface 21 of the ceiling surrounding the hole 17. As the speaker assembly 10 passes into the hole 17, the outer section 165 engages the junction of the exposed surface 21 and peripheral surface 25. As the speaker assembly 10 is pushed further into the hole 17 the arm 161 is forced inwardly in a direction towards the centre of the speaker cover 11. As this occurs the hook 159 is caused to disengage the edge 163 incorporated in the mounting clip 155, releasing the mounting clip 155 and allowing it to move towards the first position.

[0061] The securing clip 151 releasably retains the speaker 13 onto the inner surface 35 of the speaker cover 11. The securing clip 151 comprises a retaining portion 40, angled downwardly towards the central area of the inner surface 35 when the mounting clip structure 50 is located on the post 55. The retaining portion 40 releasably retains the speaker to the body. The retaining portion 40 is resiliently flexible so that it can be flexed outwardly to facilitate insertion of the speaker and to return to an engaging position under the influence of its resilient nature to releasably retain the speaker in position and thereby secure the speaker 13 to the speaker cover 11. Each retaining portion 40 locates against the speaker so as to retain the latter in position. However, other means known to the person skilled in the art may also be used to retain the speaker in position, such as screwing the speaker to the cover.

[0062] A second embodiment of the invention is illustrated in figure 9. For convenience features of the second embodiment that are similar or correspond to features of the first embodiment have been referenced with the same reference numerals.

[0063] In the second embodiment the invention is in the form of a speaker assembly 110 comprising a speaker cover 111, a shroud 12, and a speaker 13.

[0064] This embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the shroud 12 cooperates with a projection in the form of a plurality of retaining tabs 32 extending from a speaker cover 111 to releasably retain the shroud 12 relative to the speaker cover 111.

[0065] As depicted in figure 9 an inner surface 35 of the speaker cover 111 provides the plurality of retaining tabs 32 which extend outwardly therefrom. The retaining tabs 32 are spaced from the centre such that a periphery/an outer edge 31 of the shroud snugly engages an inside surface of the retaining tabs 32. When assembling the speaker assembly 110, the recesses 29 in the shroud 12 are aligned with each clip structure 50, and the shroud is slid into position. When a shroud opening 25 is in proximity to the inner surface 35 of the speaker cover 111, the outer edge 31 around the shroud opening 25 frictionally engages the retaining tabs 32. When the shroud abuts the inner surface 35 of the speaker cover the retaining tabs 32 and outer edge 31 co-operate to retain the shroud 12 with respect to the speaker cover 111.

[0066]A third embodiment of the invention is illustrated in figures 10 to 15. For convenience features of the third embodiment that are similar or correspond to features of the first embodiment have been referenced with the same reference numerals.

[0067] In the third embodiment the invention is in the form of a speaker assembly 210 comprising a speaker cover 11, a shroud 212, and a speaker 13.

[0068] This embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the shroud 212 co operates with three mounting clip structures 250 to retain the shroud 212 relative to the speakercover11.

[0069] As noted in figures 10 to 15, the cover 11 of the third embodiment has three mounting clip structures 250 secured to the speaker cover 10. These are secured to the speaker cover 11 in the same manner as discussed in the first embodiment. Furthermore, the mounting clip structures 250 comprise the same features, and work in the same way as those discussed in the first embodiment. However, in addition, each mounting clip structure 250 further comprises a clip tab 254 formed with, and extending from an intermediate portion of the securing clip 151, as best shown in figure 14.

[0070] In this embodiment the shroud 212 incorporates a shoulder 256 which is provided at an end of a channel 230 incorporated in each of a plurality of recesses 229 spaced around the shroud 212. The shoulder 256 co-operates with the clip tab 254, when assembled, to hold the shroud 212 in position. When assembling the speaker assembly 10, recesses 229 in the shroud 212 are aligned with each clip structure 250. As the shroud 212 slides passed the clip structures 250 the clip tab 254 causes the walls of the shroud 212 to deflect to accommodate each clip tab 254. When the open end of the shroud 212 is in proximity to the inner surface of the speaker cover 11 each clip tab 254 enters the channel 230 allowing the shroud to return to its normal shape. In this position each clip tab 254 and its respective shoulder 256 co-operate to secure the shroud 212 with respect to the speaker cover 11.

[0071]The third embodiment further differs from the first embodiment in that each mounting clip structures 250 omits the locking means 157. However, this does not mean that an embodiment having this feature is outside the scope of the present invention. All embodiments, regardless of whether the mounting clip structure incorporates the locking means or not falls within the scope of this invention.

[0072] A fourth embodiment of the invention is illustrated in figures 16 to 18. For convenience features of the fourth embodiment that are similar or correspond to features of the third embodiment have been referenced with the same reference numerals.

[0073] In the fourth embodiment the invention is in the form of a speaker assembly 310 comprising a speaker cover 11, a shroud 312, and a speaker 13.

[0074] This embodiment differs from the third embodiment in that the shroud 312 is reduced in height. This allows the speaker assembly 310 to be used in applications where there is minimal distance in the ceiling cavity, or in those applications where an adapter housing (not shown) is secured to a ceiling/wall to provide a hole. In these situations the speaker 13 is configured so that the terminals and capacitors do not extend rearwardly from the speaker to the same extent as the speaker used in the previous embodiments.

[0075] As shown in figure 18 the shroud 312 incorporates indents 356 which are provided towards an end of each of a plurality of recesses 329 spaced around the shroud 312. The recess 356 co-operates with the clip tab 254 of each mounting clip structure 250, when assembled, to hold the shroud 312 in position. When assembling the speaker assembly 10, recesses 329 in the shroud 312 are aligned with each clip structure 250. As the shroud 312 slides passed the clip structures 250 the clip tab 254 and/or the walls of the shroud 312 deflect to accommodate each clip tab 254. When the open end of the shroud 312 has aligned with or is in proximity to the inner surface of the speaker cover 11 each clip tab 254 enters the indents 356 allowing the shroud to return to its normal shape. In this position each clip tab 254 and its respective indent 356 co operate to secure the shroud 312 with respect to the speaker cover 11.

[0076] The shroud increases and/or preserves the ability for the speaker assembly to operate even when the speaker assembly is exposed to water or excessive temperatures.

[0077] While the above embodiments describe a means to secure the speaker assembly relative to a hole, the speaker assembly may be secured relative to the hole in any number of ways, as would be known to a person skilled in the art.

[0078] Modifications and variations such as would be apparent to the skilled addressee are considered to fall within the scope of the present invention. The present invention is not to be limited in scope by any of the specific embodiments described herein. These embodiments are intended for the purpose of exemplification only. Functionally equivalent products, formulations and methods are clearly within the scope of the invention as described herein.

[0079] Reference to positional descriptions, such as lower and upper, are to be taken in context of the embodiments depicted in the figures, and are not to be taken as limiting the invention to the literal interpretation of the term but rather as would be understood by the skilled addressee.

[0080] Also, future patent applications maybe filed in Australia or overseas on the basis of, or claiming priority from, the present application. It is to be understood that the following provisional claims are provided by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of what may be claimed in any such future application. Features may be added to or omitted from the provisional claims at a later date so as to further define or re-define the invention or inventions.

[0081] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprise", "comprises," ''comprising," "including," and "having," or variations thereof are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

[0082] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on", "engaged to", "connected to" or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly engaged to", "directly connected to" or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0083] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

[0084] Spatially relative terms, such as "inner," "outer," "beneath", "below", "lower", "above", "upper" and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the example term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

Claims (1)

1. A speaker assembly comprising a speaker cover to which a speaker and a shroud are mounted, the speaker cover comprising at least two clip structures on an inner surface of a body of the cover, wherein the shroud is adapted to co-operate with the cover to encapsulate the speaker, each clip structure comprises a clip tab which co-operates with the shroud to secure the shroud to the speaker cover, wherein when the shroud is in position an end of the clip tab engages a ledge, a shoulder, an indentation or similar on the shroud to releasably hold the shroud in position.

   The speaker assembly according to claim 1 wherein each clip structure comprises a mounting clip and a locking means, the mounting clip being adapted to be movable between a first position and a second position to facilitate passage of the clip structure through the opening, wherein the locking means releasably locks the mounting clip in the second position, the locking means being adapted to release the mounting clip during installation of the speaker cover whereupon release the mounting clip moves toward the first position to hold the speaker assembly in an installed position.

   t The speaker assembly according to claim 1 or 2 wherein each clip structure also comprise a first clip adapted to resiliently locate against the peripheral surface of the opening, a first surface of the opening or an edge of the opening.

   4. A speaker assembly comprising a speaker cover to which a speaker and a shroud are mounted, the speaker cover comprising:

   at least two clip structures on an inner surface of the speaker cover for mounting the speaker cover with respect to an opening in a ceiling or wall, to retain the speaker on the speaker cover, and to retain the shroud on the speaker cover, each clip structure comprising a clip tab which engages the shroud, a mounting clip and a locking means;

   wherein the shroud is adapted to co-operate with the cover to encapsulate the speaker.

   The speaker assembly according to claim 4 wherein the mounting clip is adapted to be deflected inwardly towards a second position to facilitate passage of the clip structure through the opening in the surface and subsequently released to return towards a first position such that the mounting clip holds the body in an installed position.

   The speaker assembly according to claim 4 or 5 wherein the locking means releasably locks the mounting clip in the second position, the locking means releasing the mounting clip as the clip structure passes through the opening whereby the mounting clip moves toward the first position.

   The speaker assembly according to claim 4, 5 or 6 wherein each clip structure comprise a securing means to secure the speaker to the cover.

   A speaker cover for mounting a speaker and a shroud thereon, the speaker cover comprising:

   a projection extending rearwardly from an inner surface of the speaker cover upon which the speaker is mounted, the projection frictionally engaging the shroud to retain the shroud thereon;

   a clip structure for mounting a body with respect to an opening in a surface, the clip structure comprising a mounting clip and a locking means;

   the mounting clip is adapted to be deflected inwardly from a first position to a second position to facilitate passage of the clip structure through the opening in the surface and subsequently released to return towards the first position such that the mounting clip holds the body in an installed position;

   wherein the locking means releasably locks the mounting clip in the second position, the locking means releases the mounting clip as the clip structure passes through the opening to allow the mounting clip to move towards the first position.

   . A speaker cover for mounting a speaker and a shroud thereon, the speaker cover comprising:

   a projection extending rearwardly from an inner surface of the speaker cover upon which the speaker is mounted, the projection frictionally engaging the shroud to retain the shroud thereon;

   a clip structure for mounting the body with respect to an opening in a surface, the clip structure comprising a mounting clip, a locking means and a tab;

   the tab is adapted to be deflected inwardly from a first position to a second position as a portion of the shroud passes the clip structure and subsequently return towards the first position and engage a shoulder of the shroud such that the tab holds the shroud relative to the speaker cover;

   the mounting clip is adapted to be deflected inwardly from a first position to a second position to facilitate passage of the clip structure through the opening in the surface and subsequently return towards the first position such that the mounting clip holds the speaker cover in an installed position;

   wherein the locking means releasably locks the mounting clip in the second position, the locking means being adapted to release the mounting clip as the clip structure passes through the opening to allow the mounting clip to move towards the first position.

   10. The speaker assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein the shroud is shaped to closely mirror the profile of the speaker when on the speaker cover, the speaker assembly providing alignment means to readily align the shroud with respect to the speaker cover to ensure correct assembly.

   11. A speaker assembly comprising a speaker cover having an inner surface to which a speaker and a shroud are mounted, the speaker cover comprising at least two clip structures on the inner surface of the speaker cover to retain the speaker on the speaker cover and for mounting the speaker cover with respect to an opening in a ceiling or a wall, wherein the shroud is adapted to co-operate with the speaker cover to encapsulate the speaker whereupon the speaker is enclosed within the speaker cover and the shroud.

   12. A shroud adapted to be fitted to a speaker cover such that when fitted to the speaker cover, the shroud and the speaker cover co-operate to encapsulate a speaker mounted on the speaker cover, the shroud being adapted to be positioned over the rear of a speaker, wherein the shroud is configured to render the rear of the speaker relatively splash proof once the shroud is installed on the speaker cover..

   13. The shroud according to claim 12 comprising at least one screw gland through which speaker cables protrude such that a first end of the cables can be connected to an amplifier or similar.

   14. The shroud according to claim 12 comprising a set of terminals on the outside of the shroud, wherein the shroud is adapted to engage the terminals of the speaker as the shroud is positioned on the cover, such that the terminals of the speaker are connected to the terminals of the shroud.

   15. The shroud according to any one of claims 12 to 14 wherein the shroud is frictionally received on the speaker cover such that the shroud is retained on the speaker cover by the frictional engagement between the shroud and the speaker cover.

   16. The shroud according to any one of claims 12 to 14 wherein the rear surface of the cover upon which the shroud is to be mounted, provides a projection extending upwardly therefrom, the projection being spaced from the centre such that a periphery of the shroud snugly engages the projection as the shroud is received on the speaker cover.

   17. A speaker assembly comprising a speaker cover to which a speaker and a shroud are mounted, the speaker cover comprising at least two clip structures on an inner surface of a body of the cover to retain the speaker on the body and for mounting the body with respect to an opening in a ceiling or a wall, wherein the shroud is adapted to co-operate with the cover to encapsulate the speaker.

   18. A speaker assembly comprising a speaker cover having an inner surface to which a speaker and a shroud are mounted, the speaker cover comprising at least two clip structures on the inner surface of the speaker cover to retain the speaker on the speaker cover and for mounting the speaker cover with respect to an opening in a ceiling or a wall, wherein the shroud is adapted to co-operate with the speaker cover to encapsulate the speaker whereupon the speaker is enclosed within the speaker cover and the shroud, the shroud being adapted to be positioned over the rear of a speaker.