GB2606025A

GB2606025A - An audio transducer apparatus

Info

Publication number: GB2606025A
Application number: GB2105814.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Ozcan Koray; Tapani Vilermo Miikka; Tossavainen Antero
Original assignee: Nokia Technologies Oy
Current assignee: Nokia Technologies Oy
Priority date: 2021-04-23
Filing date: 2021-04-23
Publication date: 2022-10-26
Also published as: EP4327562A1; WO2022223872A1; GB202105814D0

Abstract

The audio transducer comprises at least one air displacement component, such as a diaphragm and a housing configured to retain the at least one air displacement component. The audio transducer comprises self-healing material so that at least part of the air displacement component or housing comprise the self-healing material. The self-healing material can enable repair of the audio transducer when the audio transducer is deformed and/or if there are any other defects within the audio transducer. Upon detection of such deformation and/or defects a trigger signal is generated to initiate the self-healing process. The self-healing process may be initiated by the application of heat.

Description

TITLE

An Audio Transducer Apparatus

TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

Examples of the disclosure relate to an audio transducer apparatus. Some relate to an audio transducer apparatus comprising self-healing material.

BACKGROUND

Audio transducers such as speaker components and microphones can be used in challenging mechanical and physical conditions. For example, they can be comprised within hand-portable electronic devices such as mobile telephones and so can experience heavy usage, can be dropped or subjected to other sudden impacts and can be used in challenging environments.

This can lead to damage of the audio transducers which can reduce their acoustic performance.

BRIEF SUMMARY

According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided an apparatus comprising: an audio transducer comprising at least one air displacement component; and a housing configured to retain the at least one air displacement component; and 25 wherein at least part of the air displacement component and/or housing comprise self-healing material.

The apparatus may comprise means for detecting a trigger event associated with the audio transducer and activating the self-healing material in response to the trigger event.

The apparatus may be configured to detect a trigger event associated with the audio transducer and activating the self-healing material in response to the trigger event.

The trigger event may comprise detecting one or more defects of the audio transducer.

The one or more defects may comprise at least one of; deformation of one or more parts of the audio transducer; dust on one or more parts of the audio transducer.

Activating the self-healing material may comprise heating the self-healing material.

Activating the self-healing material may comprise cooling the self-healing material after it has been heated.

The apparatus may comprise a voice coil configured to generate heat than can be used to activate the self-healing material.

The self-healing material may comprise part of the at least one air displacement component.

The self-healing material may comprise an edge portion of the at least one air displacement component.

The self-healing material comprises a central portion of the at least one air displacement component.

The at least one air displacement component may comprise any one or more of; a diaphragm, a display window, a display.

The audio transducer may be a speaker.

The audio transducer may be a microphone.

According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided a method comprising: detecting a trigger event associated with an audio transducer whereon the audio transducer comprises at least one air displacement component and a housing configured to retain the at least one air displacement component wherein at least part of the at least one air displacement component and/or the housing comprise a self-healing material; and activating the self-healing material in response to the trigger event.

The one or more defects may comprise at least one of; deformation of one or more parts of the audio transducer; dust on one or more part of the audio transducer.

Activating the self-healing material may comprise cooling the self-healing material after it has been heated According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided an 1 0 apparatus comprising: an air displacement component configured to move associated with sound; a housing configured to retain the air displacement component; and wherein at least in part the air displacement component and/or the housing comprise self-healing material.

The air displacement components may comprise a display.

The air displacement component may be configured to move to generate an acoustic signal.

The air displacement component may be configured to move in response to an incident acoustic signal.

According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided an apparatus comprising means for: detecting a trigger event associated with an audio transducer wherein the audio transducer comprises at least one air displacement component and a housing configured to retain the at least one air displacement component wherein at least part of the at least one air displacement component and/or the housing comprise a self-healing material; and activating the self-healing material in response to the trigger event.

According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided an electronic device comprising at least one processor and at least one memory comprising computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to perform; detecting a trigger event associated with an audio transducer wherein the audio transducer comprises at least one air displacement component and a housing configured to retain the at least one air displacement component wherein at least part of the at least one air displacement component and/or the housing comprise a self-healing material; and activating the self-healing material in response to the trigger event.

According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided an electronic device comprising at least one processor and at least one memory comprising computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to perform; controlling an air displacement component to operate as at least one of, an audio transducer configured to provide sound, or a tactile feedback component, wherein the air displacement component is retained within a housing and wherein at least part of the at least one air displacement component and/or the housing comprise a self-healing material; detecting a trigger event associated with at least one of, the air displacement component and/or the housing; and activating the self-healing material in response to the trigger event.

According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of the disclosure there is provided an electronic device comprising one or more apparatus as described herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

Some examples will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: FIG. 1 shows an apparatus; FIG. 2 shows a method; FIG. 3 shows an apparatus; FIG. 4 shows an apparatus; and FIG. 5 shows an apparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Examples of the disclosure relate to an apparatus comprising an audio transducer. The audio transducer comprises at least one air displacement component, such as a diaphragm and a housing configured to retain the at least one air displacement component. The audio transducer comprises self-healing material so that at least part of the air displacement component or housing comprise the self-healing material. The self-healing material can enable repair of the audio transducer when the audio transducer is deformed and/or if there are any other defects within the audio transducer.

Fig. 1 schematically illustrates an apparatus 101 according to examples of the disclosure. Fig. 1 shows a cross section through the apparatus 101. The apparatus 101 comprises an audio transducer 103. The audio transducer 103 comprises a air displacement component and a housing. 107. The audio transducer 103 could be configured for use in a portable communications device such as a mobile phone, a headset or any other suitable electronic device.

The audio transducer 103 can comprise a speaker transducer or a microphone transducer. Figs. 3 and 5 show examples where the audio transducer 103 comprises a speaker transducer. Fig. 5 shows an example where the audio transducer 103 comprises a microphone transducer.

It is to be appreciated that only components referred to in the following description are shown in Fig. 1. For example, where the audio transducer 103 comprises a speaker the audio transducer 103 can comprise additional components such as a voice coil and magnet. Where the audio transducer 103 comprises a microphone the audio transducer 103 can comprise a base plate and any other suitable additional components.

In the example of Fig. 1 the air displacement component comprises a diaphragm 105. Other types of air displacement component can be used in other examples of the disclosure. For example the air displacement component could be a flexible display or a flexible display window.

The diaphragm 105 comprises a flexible membrane. The diaphragm 105 can be configured to oscillate as indicated by the arrows 111. Where the audio transducer 103 is a speaker transducer the oscillation of the diaphragm 105 generates an acoustic signal. Where the audio transducer 103 is a microphone transducer 103 the oscillation of the diaphragm 105 enables an acoustic signal to be detected end converted into an electrical audio signal.

The housing 107 can comprise any suitable means for retaining the diaphragm 105 or any other air displacement components. The housing 107 can be configured to retain the diaphragm 105 while allowing for oscillation of the diaphragm 105. The housing 107 can comprise a rigid frame or any other suitable means for retaining a diaphragm 105. The housing 107 can be coupled or connected to the diaphragm 105 or other or any other air displacement components via any suitable means. There can be any number of intervening components between the diaphragm 105 and the housing 107, including zero intervening components.

In examples of the disclosure at least part of the housing 107 or the diaphragm 105 comprise one or more portions of self-healing material 109. The self-healing material 109 can be provided in any suitable location within the audio transducer 103. In the example of Fig. 1 the self-healing material 109 is shown as part of the diaphragm 105. In other examples the self-healing material 109 could be part of the housing 107 or part of means that attach the diaphragm 105 to the housing 107.

The self-healing material 109 can be any suitable material that be configured to repair itself.

In some examples the self-healing material 109 can comprise a polymer material. The polymer material can comprise an extrinsic self-healing polymer. The extrinsic self-healing polymer comprises healing agents embedded within the self-healing material 109. The healing agents can be comprised within capsules or a vascular network or any other suitable means within the bulk polymer. When the self-healing material 109 is damaged this causes the capsules or vascular network to rupture and the healing agent to be released into the bulk polymer. The healing agent can then repair the bulk polymer and repair the damage.

In some examples the polymer material can comprise an intrinsic self-healing polymer. The intrinsic material can enable repair of the self-healing polymer without the use of any additional healing agent. In such examples the repair of the self-healing material 109 can occur through the reversing of molecular interactions within the self-healing polymer. The molecular interactions that can be reversed can comprise physical molecular diffusion or chemical bond interactions or any other suitable interactions.

In some examples the self-healing material 109 can comprise an autonomic self-healing material 109. The autonomic self-healing material 109 can comprise a material that initiates the self-healing process without an external activation. In such examples, if the self-healing material 109 is damaged the damage itself will cause the activation of the self-healing process. In some examples the autonomic self-healing material 109 can be an intrinsic self-healing material 109 comprising small capsules and/or a vascular network of healing agent embedded within the self-healing material 109. When the self-healing material 109 is damaged, for example if it is deformed or scratched, the capsules and/or the vascular network can be ruptured and the healing agent within the capsules or vascular network can be released and then repair the damage without any external activation.

In some examples the self-healing material 109 can comprise a non-autonomic material. The non-autonomic material can comprise a self-healing material 109 that uses an external activation to initiate the self-healing process. The external activation originates from outside of the self-healing material 109. The external activation can be the application of heat or any other suitable means.

In some examples the external activation can be provided in response to the detection of one or more defects within the audio transducer 103. In some examples the activation can be provided in response to the detection of one or more defects within the self-healing material 109 or within any other suitable part of the audio transducer 103. Other trigger events can be used to provide the external activation in other examples of the disclosure.

Fig. 2 shows an example method that can be implemented using the apparatus 101 as shown in Fig. 1. The method of Fig. 2 can be used when the self-healing material 109 comprises a non-autonomic self-healing material 109.

At block 201 the method comprises detecting a trigger event associated with the audio transducer 103. The trigger event could be any event that provides an indication that repair of the audio transducer 103 could be needed or would be beneficial.

In some examples the trigger event could comprise the detection of one or more defects of the audio transducer 103. The defects could be deformation of one or parts of the audio transducer 103. In some examples the defects could comprise scratches or other damage to parts of the audio transducer 103. In some examples the defects could comprise an accumulation of dust on one or more parts of the audio transducer 103.

Where the trigger event comprises detecting one or more defects the defects can comprise deformation of one or more parts of the audio transducer 103, an accumulation of dust on the diaphragm 105, a scratch on the surface of one or more components of the audio transducer 103 or any other defect that could affect the performance of the audio transducer 103.

Any suitable means can be used to detect the defects of the audio transducer 103. In some examples the defects of the audio transducer 103 can be detected by analysing an output signal provided by the audio transducer 103. For instance, where the audio transducer 103 is a speaker transducer the speaker transducer can be controlled to provide an output acoustic signal. This acoustic signal could be a reference signal or any other suitable acoustic signal. The output acoustic signal can be detected by a microphone transducer that is provided close to the speaker transducer. If the detected acoustic signal deviates from an expected response by more than a threshold amount then it can be determined that there are defects within the audio transducer 103.

Other types of trigger event can be used in other examples of the disclosure. For example, the trigger event can relate to the length or duration of use of the audio transducer 103. In some examples the trigger event could be detecting that the audio transducer 103 has been used for a certain length of time or that it has been used in certain conditions. In some examples the trigger event could be the detection that a predetermined period of time has elapsed or any other suitable event. For instance, the trigger event could be that the apparatus 101 has been used for 500 hours or more, or that a year has passed since the last activation of the self-healing process, or that the audio transducer 103 has been used for a cumulative total of 100 hours at above 75°C, or that the audio transducer 103 has been used for a cumulative total of 100 hours at over 80dB or any other suitable event.

In some examples after it has been detected that the audio transducer 103 has been used for a certain length of time or that it has been used in certain conditions then the output signal of the audio transducer 103 can be measured. This can help to determine if any defects are present in the audio transducer 103 and can determine whether or not activating the self-healing process would be necessary or beneficial.

The trigger event can be detected by a controller or any other suitable means that can be coupled to the audio transducer 103. The controller could also be configured to control the output signals provided by the audio transducer 103. For instance, where the audio transducer 103 is a speaker transducer the controller can be configured to provide an electrical audio signal to the speaker transducer to control the speaker transducer to provide an acoustic output signal. Where the audio transducer 103 is a microphone transducer the controller can be configured to detect an electrical audio signal from the microphone transducer.

At block 203, the self-healing process is activated in response to the trigger event. Any suitable means can be used to activate the self-healing process.

In some examples the self-healing material 109 can be activated by heating the self-healing material 109. The self-healing process can comprise heating the self-healing material 109 to a predetermined temperature for at least a predetermined period of time. The cooling process can comprise holding the self-healing material 109 at a first temperature for a period of time.

The first temperature can be outside the normal range of operating temperatures of the audio transducer 103.

Where the self-healing material 109 comprises an intrinsic self-healing material 109 the heating can allow for molecular diffusion or for the repair of chemical bonds. Where the self-healing material 109 comprises an extrinsic self-healing material 109 the heating can cause the opening of the capsules or vascular network embedded within the self-healing material 109. For example, the capsules could be ruptured by deformation or melted by excess heat.

Any suitable heat source can be used to heat the self-healing material 109. In examples where the audio transducer 103 is a speaker transducer heat from the voice coil or other components within the audio transducer 103 can be used to generate the heat required for the self-healing process. In such examples the speaker transducer can be controlled to provide a particular audio signal that provides sufficient heating of the voice coil and any other components. The audio signal could comprise noise, sinusoids, music or any other suitable type of audio signal.

The audio signal could comprise an acoustic signal that is outside of the frequency range that In some examples the audio signal may be be outside the normal frequency range of the audio transducer 103. For example, mobile phone speakers typically only can reproduce frequencies well from 500Hz to 10kHz. In examples where the audio transducer 103 is provided within a mobile phone the audio signal used to generate the heat could be 100Hz. This is not audible in practise because the mobile phone audio transducer 103 cannot reproduce such a signal well even though a different audio transducer could generate a 100 Hz audio signal that would be audible to humans.

In some examples the signals for generating the heat within the voice coil could be added as extra content to an acoustic signal. For instance, the signals outside of the audible frequency range could be added to acoustic content that the user is listening to. This could enable the audio transducer 103 to be repaired during use.

In some examples the heat source for heating the self-healing material 109 could comprise a conductive line. The conductive line could be dedicated for the purpose of providing heat to the self-healing material 109. For instance, the audio transducer could comprise driving electrical terminals for providing audio signals and an additional contact point that is connected to the self-healing material 109. The additional contact point could enable the self-healing material 109 to be heated even if the audio transducer 103 is not in use. In other examples the heat could be provided to one or more of the driving terminals when the audio transducer 103 is not in use.

The type of acoustic signal that is used to activate the self-healing process can depend on the type of self-healing material 109 that is used. For example, where the self-healing material 109 is an intrinsic self-healing material 109 some signals could be more effective at causing the rupture of the capsules or vascular network than other signals. For instance, a square wave could be more effective than a sinusoidal wave and so a square wave could be used in such cases. Other types of signals could comprise rub and buzz signals or any other suitable type of signals. In some examples the signals that are used could be designed to identify defects within the audio transducer 103.

Where the audio transducer 103 is a microphone transducer the microphone transducer can be positioned close to a speaker transducer in some example embodiments. This relative position can be intentional. For example, the microphone transducer can be positioned close to the speaker transducer to enable the microphone transducer to be used to measure and analyse the output acoustic signals from the speaker transducer. However, this positioning can also enable heat generated by the components of the speaker transducer to be used to heat the microphone transducer. This heating can be sufficient to activate the self-healing material 109 within the microphone transducer. In other examples the positioning of the microphone transducer close to the speaker transducer can be a coincidence in the design of the device.

In some examples the microphone transducer can be thermally coupled to a heat source that is different to the speaker transducer. For example, a conductive line could be coupled to the microphone transducer where the conductive line could be configured to provide heat to the self-healing material 109 within the microphone transducer. This arrangement could be used in examples where the microphone transducer is provided as a separate component to the speaker transducer and/or is not positioned close to the speaker transducer.

In some examples the heating process can be followed by a cooling process. The cooling process can comprise holding the self-healing material 109 at a second temperature for a period of time. The second temperature is lower than the first temperature that was used for the heating of the self-healing material 103.

During the cooling period the audio transducer 103 might not be used. In some examples the controller, or any other suitable part of the apparatus 101 can control the audio transducer so that the audio transducer 103 is not used. In other example the audio transducer 103 could be used to play an acoustic signal at a lower volume during the cooling period. This can reduce movement of any moving parts of the audio transducer 103 and can ensure that the self-healing material 109 is repaired correctly.

In some examples the apparatus 101 can comprise temperature sensing means. The temperature sensing means can comprise one or more temperature sensors. The temperature sensing means can be configured to measure the temperature of one or more parts of the audio transducer 103. These temperature measurements can be used to control the heating and/or cooling processes.

In some examples the temperature sensing means can be configured so that the heating process is only activated during certain conditions. For example, the heating process might only be activated if it is determined that the temperature of the self-healing material 109, or other parts of the audio transducer 103, is already above a threshold level. This reduces the additional heat that needs to be provided to the self-healing material 109.

In the examples described above heat from the voice coil of a speaker transducer can be used to generate, at least some of, the heat required for activating the self-healing material 109. In other examples the ambient heat could be sufficient and/or heat could be transferred from other components within the apparatus 101 and used for heating the self-healing material 103. It is to be appreciated that a combination of heat sources could be used to generate the heat for activating the self-healing material 109.

It is to be appreciated that means other than heat can be used to activate the self-healing material 109 in other examples of the disclosure. For instance, a control signal that causes a particular movement of one or more moving parts of the audio transducer 103 could be used

in some examples.

Once the self-healing process has been completed the audio transducer 103 can be tested to see if it has been sufficiently repaired. For example, reference output signals from the audio transducer 103 can be measured to see if there are any defects remaining. If it is detected that there are any remaining defects then the self-healing process can be activated again. The re-activation of the self-healing process can be repeated as many times as is needed until the defects are no longer detected.

As mentioned above the method of Fig. 2 could be used in examples where the self-healing material 109 comprises a non-autonomic self-healing material 109. In examples where the self-healing material 109 comprises an autonomic self-healing material 109 there is no need to detect a trigger event and provide external activation of the self-healing material 109. In such cases the damage that is caused to the self-healing material 109 automatically causes the material to repair itself without any additional activation.

In other examples the activation of the self-healing material 109 could by a side-effect of normal use of the audio transducer 103. For example, if the audio transducer 109 is a speaker transducer then the generation of low frequency signals, or other signals, during normal use of the speaker transducer could generate sufficient heat to activate the self-healing process of the self-healing material 109. This can allow for the self-healing material 109 to be repaired during normal use of the apparatus 101 without detecting a trigger event or providing a specific activation.

In some examples the self-healing process might only be activated when certain conditions are fulfilled. For example, the self-healing process might only be activated if the device comprising the apparatus 101 is being charged. This can avoid depleting a battery or other power source of the device. This could also allow heat from the charging process to be used to, at least partially, heat the self-healing material 109.

In some examples the activation of the self-healing material 109 could be controlled by a separate entity to the device comprising the audio transducer 103. For example, it could be controlled by a device manufacturer or other service provider. In such examples, the device can be configured to transmit data indicative of the condition of the audio transducer 103 to the separate entity. The separate entity can use this information to determine whether or not the self-healing material 109 should be activated. The separate entity could then control the activation of the self-healing material 109 be sending an appropriate control signal to the device.

In some examples the activation of the self-healing material 109 can require an input from a user of the device. For instance, if it is determined that there is a defect within the audio transducer 103 then a notification can be displayed to a user of the device indicating that repair of audio transducer 103 is recommended. The user could then make an input that causes the activation of the self-healing material 109.

In some examples the self-healing material 109 can comprise a material that can enable the repair process by melting and then resolidifying. Such materials could be used as an adhesive or any suitable material within the audio transducer 103. The adhesive could be configured to retain two or more parts of the audio transducer 103 in position relative to each other. When the adhesive is being heated it can be heated to a temperature that melts the self-healing material 109 to a point that allows for self -repair.

Fig. 3 shows another example apparatus 101 according to examples of the disclosure. In the example of Fig. 3 the audio transducer 103 is a speaker transducer.

The speaker transducer 301 comprises any means that can be configured to transduce an audio input signal to an acoustic output signal. The audio input signal can be an electrical signal. The speaker transducer 301 could be provided within a portable electronic device such as mobile phone or a headset or any other suitable type of electronic device.

In the example of Fig. 3 the speaker transducer 301 comprises a diaphragm 105 and a housing 107. The diaphragm 105 and the housing 107 can be as described above.

In the example of Fig. 3 the speaker transducer 301 also comprises a coil wire 303, a spring contact 305, a voice coil 307, a bottom plate 309, a suspension 311 and a magnet 313. These components enable the oscillation of the diaphragm 105 in response to an input electrical audio signal. The input electrical audio signal can be received from a controller or from any other

suitable source.

In the example shown in Fig. 3 the diaphragm 105 comprises a portion of self-healing material 109. The self-healing material 109 can be provided as a thin coating. The self-healing material 109 can be provided as a thin coating over any suitable components of the speaker transducer 35 301.

The self-healing material 109 is provided in a surround of the diaphragm 105. The surround comprises an edge portion of the diaphragm 105. The surround can be a separate part of the diaphragm 105 in some audio transducers 103. In other examples the surround can be an integral part of the diaphragm 105 in other audio transducers 105. In the example of Fig. 3 the self-healing material 109 is provided around the edges of the diaphragm 105. The self-healing material 109 can be provided so that it extends around the whole of, or substantially the whole of the perimeter of the diaphragm 105. In the example of Fig. 3 the self-healing material 109 is provided between the dashed lines. Other arrangements of the self-healing material 109 could be used in other examples of the disclosure.

In Fig. 3 the self-healing material 109 can also be provided on other components of the speaker transducer 301 in addition to the diaphragm 105. For example, the self-healing material 109 could be provided as part of the suspension 311 that connects the diaphragm 105 to the housing 107 and/or as part of the housing 107.

When the speaker transducer 301 is in use one or more of the components of the speaker transducer 301 could heat up. For example, eddy current could cause heating of the voice coil 307 and any other suitable components during use. This heat could be used to heat the self-healing material 109 in response to a trigger event.

The arrangement of the self-healing material 109 as shown in Fig. 3 can be used in examples where the diaphragm 105 gets partially detached from the suspension 311 and/or the suspension 311 gets partially detached from the housing 17. The self-healing material 109 is provided around the edge of the diaphragm 109 and the suspension 311 in the locations where this damage is most likely to occur.

Other designs of the diaphragm 105 could be used in other examples of the disclosure. In some examples the diaphragm 105 can be configured in a plurality of segments. In some such examples an outer segment, that is between the surround and the housing 107, could comprise the self-healing material 109. In other examples the entire diaphragm 105 could be formed using directly the self-healing material.

Fig. 4 shows another example apparatus 101 according to examples of the disclosure. In the example of Fig. 4 the audio transducer 103 is also a speaker transducer. The speaker transducer 301 shown in Fig. 4 is similar to the speaker transducer 301 shown in Fig. 3. The speaker transducer 301 shown in Fig. 4 comprises a diaphragm 105 and a housing 107. The diaphragm 105 and the housing 107 can be as described above.

In the example of Fig. 4 the speaker transducer 301 also comprises a coil wire 303, a spring contact 305, a voice coil 307, a bottom plate 309, a suspension 311 and a magnet 313 which can be as shown in Fig. 3.

In the example shown in Fig. 4 the diaphragm 105 comprises a portion of self-healing material 109 in a central portion of the diaphragm 105. The self-healing material 105 can be provided in a portion that is overlaying the magnet 313 of the speaker transducer 301.

The magnet 313 could cause particles of dust 401 or other magnetic components to accumulate on the surface of the diaphragm 105 in the regions overlaying the magnet 313. The particles of dust 401 provide additional weight to the diaphragm 105 and can adversely affect the response of the diaphragm 105 and so can reduce the acoustic performance of the speaker transducer 301. The additional weight of the particles of dust 401 can cause reduction in the movement of the diaphragm 105 for a given input signal and/or could cause uneven movement of the diaphragm 105.

The presence of the dust 401 can be detected by comparing the output signals of the speaker transducer 301 with a reference output signal, or by any other means. The presence of dust 401 can be detected if the output signal differs from an expected output signal by more than a threshold amount.

When the dust 401 is detected the self-healing process can be activated by initiating heating of the self-healing material 109 or by any other means.

In the example of Fig. 4 the self-healing process can allow the dust 401 that has accumulated on the surface of the diaphragm 105 to pass through the diaphragm 105. The dust 401 can pass through the portions of the diaphragm 105 that comprise self-healing material 109.

When the self-healing material 109 is heated this allows for sufficient deformation of the self-healing material 109 to allow the particles of dust 401 to move through the self-healing material 109 under the action of gravity or any other suitable force. After the self-healing material 109 has been heated for a predetermined period of time it can be estimated that a sufficient amount of the dust 401 has passed through the self-healing material 109 and so the self-healing material 109 can be cooled.

In the example of Fig. 4 the self-healing material 109 extends though the thickness of the diaphragm 105 rather than being provided as a thin coating on top. This can allow the particles of dust 109 to pass through the diaphragm 105 and so be removed from the surface of the diaphragm 105.

The apparatus 101 or the device comprising the apparatus 101 can comprise an accelerometer or other means for determining the orientation of the speaker transducer 301. The self-healing process can be controlled so that it will only be activated if the speaker transducer 301 is orientated in the correct orientation to allow the dust particles 401 to move through the self-healing material 109.

Other positions for the self-healing material 109 could be used in other examples of the disclosure. For instance, the self-healing material 109 could be provided in locations that are close to the voice coil or other components that generate heat. This can allow for efficient heating of the self-healing material 109.

Fig. 5 shows another example apparatus 101 according to examples of the disclosure. In the example of Fig. 5 the audio transducer 103 is a microphone transducer 501.

The microphone transducer 501 comprises any means that can be configured to transduce an incident acoustic signal into an audio output signal. The audio output signal can be an electrical signal. The microphone transducer 501 can comprise a MEMS (microelectro-mechanical systems) microphone, an electret condenser microphone or any other suitable type of microphone. The microphone transducer 501 could be provided within a portable electronic device such as mobile phone or a headset or any other suitable type of electronic device.

In some examples the microphone transducer 501 can be used for measuring output acoustic signals from speaker transducers 301. In such examples the microphone transducer 501 can be positioned within a device so that it is in close proximity to one or more speaker transducers 301.

In the example of Fig. 5 the microphone transducer 501 comprises a diaphragm 105, a back plate 503, a cavity 505 and a housing 107. The apparatus 101 also comprises a controller 507 for controlling the microphone speaker 501.

The back plate 503 comprises a stiff structure. The back plate 503 comprises a plurality of perforations which allow air to pass through so that the back plate 503 does not move when a acoustic signal is incident on the microphone transducer 501. The back plate 503 can comprise any suitable material.

The diaphragm 105 comprises a flexible layer which extends over the cavity 505. The diaphragm 105 is positioned between the cavity 505 and the back plate 503. The housing 107 retains the diaphragm in place.

The diaphragm 105 is thin relative to the back plate 503. The diaphragm 105 is flexible so that the diaphragm 105 moves when an acoustic signal is incident on the microphone transducer 501.

When an acoustic signal is incident on the microphone transducer 501 this causes movement of the diaphragm 105. This movement causes the diaphragm 105 to oscillate towards and away from the back plate 503. This changes the capacitance between the diaphragm 105 and the back plate 503. This change in capacitance provides an audio output signal which is indicative of the incident acoustic signal. The audio output signal may be provided to the controller 507 which may be configured to process the audio output signal.

The microphone transducer 501 could be susceptible to damage. For examples, the backplate 503 or diaphragm 105 could be damaged when the microphone transducer 501 is dropped or an excessive external force is applied, In the example of Fig. 5 the diaphragm 105 comprises self-healing material 109. The self-healing material 109 can comprise any suitable self-healing material 109 as described above.

The self-healing material 109 can be provided as a thin coating on the surface of the diaphragm 105 or can be provided so that it extends through the diaphragm 105. The self-healing material 109 can be provided over all of the diaphragm 105 or it can be provided on just a portion of the diaphragm 105. For example, the self-healing material 109 could be provided on the sections of the diaphragm 105 that are most likely to be damaged, such as the edges.

It is to be appreciated that in other examples the self-healing material 109 could be provided in other components of the microphone transducer 501. For example, the self-healing material 109 could be provided within the back plate 503 or within any other component that is susceptible to damage.

The self-healing process of the self-healing material 109 in the microphone transducer 501 can be activated in response to trigger event such as the detection of defects or the determination that other predefined conditions have been met. In some examples the self-healing material 109 could be an autonomic self-healing material 109 that could activate its own self-healing process when it is damaged.

The self-healing process can be activated by any suitable means such as heating. In some examples the microphone transducer 501 can be positioned close to the speaker transducer 301 so that heat from the voice coil 307 of the speaker transducer 301 can be used to activate the self-healing material 109 of the microphone transducer 501.

It is to be appreciated that different types of audio transducer 103 can be used in different examples of the disclosure. For instance, in some examples the apparatus 101 could comprise an air displacement component instead of a diaphragm 105.

The air displacement components may comprise a display or any other suitable components, for example, a display window. In some examples the displacement component may be configured to move to generate an audio signal. In some examples the displacement component may be configured to move in response to an incident audio signal. In some examples the displacement component may be configured to move in response to an actuation by an actuator.

The apparatus 101 could comprise housing 107 configured to retain the air displacement component. In such examples at least part of the air displacement component and/or the housing 107 comprise self-healing material 109.

Examples of the disclosure therefore provide audio transducers 103 that can perform self-repair. This can improve the acoustic performance of the audio transducers 103 and can correct any defects or damage to the audio transducers 103.

It is to be appreciated that apparatus 101 as described herein and shown in Figs. 1 to 5 could be provided within any suitable electronic devices such as mobile phones, smart televisions or any other suitable types of electronic devices. The electronic devices could comprise one or more processors and memories comprising computer program code. The one or more processors and memories comprising computer program code could be configured to control the apparatus 101 to function as an audio transducer and produce or detect sound. In some examples the one or more processors and memories comprising computer program code could be configured to control the apparatus 101 to function as a tactile feedback component. In such examples, vibration of the air displacement component could provide tactile feedback for a user of the electronic device.

The one or more processors can be configured to read from and write to the one or more memories. The processor can also comprise an output interface via which data and/or commands are output by the one or more processors and an input interface via which data and/or commands are input to the one or more processors.

The one or more memories are configured to store a computer program comprising computer program instructions (computer program code) that controls the operation of the apparatus 101 when loaded into the one or more processors. The computer program instructions, of the computer program, provide the logic and routines that enables the apparatus 101 to perform the methods illustrated in Fig. 2. The one or more processors by reading the one or more memories is able to load and execute the computer program.

The electronic device therefore comprises: at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the electronic device at least to perform: detecting a trigger event associated with an audio transducer wherein the audio transducer comprises at least one air displacement component and a housing configured to retain the at least one air displacement component wherein at least part of the at least one air displacement component and/or the housing comprise a self-healing material; and activating the self-healing material in response to the trigger event.

In some examples the electronic device comprises: at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the electronic device at least to perform: controlling an air displacement component to operate as at least one of, an audio transducer configured to provide sound, or a tactile feedback component, wherein the air displacement component is retained within a housing and wherein at least part of the at least one air displacement component and/or the housing comprise a self-healing material; detecting a trigger event associated with at least one of, the air displacement component and/or the housing; and activating the self-healing material in response to the trigger event.

The computer program can arrive at the electronic device via any suitable delivery mechanism.

1 0 The delivery mechanism can be, for example, a machine readable medium, a computer-readable medium, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, a computer program product, a memory device, a record medium such as a Compact Disc Read-Only Memory (CD-ROM) or a Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) or a solid-state memory, an article of manufacture that comprises or tangibly embodies the computer program. The delivery mechanism can be a signal configured to reliably transfer the computer program. The electronic device can propagate or transmit the computer program as a computer data signal. In some examples the computer program can be transmitted to the apparatus using a wireless protocol such as Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, Bluetooth Smart, 6LoWPan (IPv6 over low power personal area networks) ZigBee, ANT+, near field communication (NFC), Radio frequency identification, wireless local area network (wireless LAN) or any other suitable protocol.

The computer program comprises computer program instructions for causing an electronic device to perform at least the following: detecting a trigger event associated with an audio transducer wherein the audio transducer comprises at least one air displacement component and a housing configured to retain the at least one air displacement component wherein at least part of the at least one air displacement component and/or the housing comprise a self-healing material; and activating the self-healing material in response to the trigger event.

In some examples the computer program comprises computer program instructions for causing an electronic device to perform at least the following: controlling an air displacement component to operate as at least one of, an audio transducer configured to provide sound, or a tactile feedback component, wherein the air displacement component is retained within a housing and wherein at least part of the at least one air displacement component and/or the housing comprise a self-healing material; detecting a trigger event associated with at least one of, the air displacement component and/or the housing; and activating the self-healing material in response to the trigger event.

The computer program instructions can be comprised in a computer program, a non-transitory computer readable medium, a computer program product, a machine readable medium. In some but not necessarily all examples, the computer program instructions can be distributed over more than one computer program.

1 0 The one or more memories can be implemented as one or more separate components/circuitry some or all of which can be integrated/removable and/or can provide permanent/semipermanent/ dynamic/cached storage.

The one or more processors can be implemented as one or more separate components/circuitry some or all of which can be integrated/removable. The processor can be a single core or multi-core processor.

References to "computer-readable storage medium", "computer program product", "tangibly embodied computer program" etc. or a "controller", "computer", "processor" etc. should be understood to encompass not only computers having different architectures such as single /multi-processor architectures and sequential (Von Neumann)/parallel architectures but also specialized circuits such as field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA), application specific circuits (ASIC), signal processing devices and other processing circuitry. References to computer program, instructions, code etc. should be understood to encompass software for a programmable processor or firmware such as, for example, the programmable content of a hardware device whether instructions for a processor, or configuration settings for a fixed-function device, gate array or programmable logic device etc. As used in this application, the term "circuitry" can refer to one or more or all of the following: (a) hardware-only circuitry implementations (such as implementations in only analog and/or digital circuitry) and (b) combinations of hardware circuits and software, such as (as applicable): (i) a combination of analog and/or digital hardware circuit(s) with software/firmware and (ii) any portions of hardware processor(s) with software (including digital signal processor(s)), software, and memory(ies) that work together to cause an apparatus, such as a mobile phone or server, to perform various functions and (c) hardware circuit(s) and or processor(s), such as a microprocessor(s) or a portion of a microprocessor(s), that requires software (e.g. firmware) for operation, but the software might not be present when it is not needed for operation.

This definition of circuitry applies to all uses of this term in this application, including in any claims. As a further example, as used in this application, the term circuitry also covers an implementation of merely a hardware circuit or processor and its (or their) accompanying software and/or firmware. The term circuitry also covers, for example and if applicable to the particular claim element, a baseband integrated circuit for a mobile device or a similar integrated circuit in a server, a cellular network device, or other computing or network device.

In this description the term coupled means operationally coupled. Any number of components can be provided between coupled components including zero components.

The term 'comprise' is used in this document with an inclusive not an exclusive meaning. That is any reference to X comprising Y indicates that X may comprise only one Y or may comprise more than one Y. If it is intended to use 'comprise' with an exclusive meaning then it will be made clear in the context by referring to "comprising only one..." or by using "consisting".

In this description, reference has been made to various examples. The description of features or functions in relation to an example indicates that those features or functions are present in that example. The use of the term 'example' or 'for example' or 'can' or 'may' in the text denotes, whether explicitly stated or not, that such features or functions are present in at least the described example, whether described as an example or not, and that they can be, but are not necessarily, present in some of or all other examples. Thus 'example', 'for example', 'can' or 'may' refers to a particular instance in a class of examples. A property of the instance can be a property of only that instance or a property of the class or a property of a sub-class of the class that includes some but not all of the instances in the class. It is therefore implicitly disclosed that a feature described with reference to one example but not with reference to another example, can where possible be used in that other example as part of a working combination but does not necessarily have to be used in that other example.

Although examples have been described in the preceding paragraphs with reference to various examples, it should be appreciated that modifications to the examples given can be made without departing from the scope of the claims.

Features described in the preceding description may be used in combinations other than the combinations explicitly described above.

Although functions have been described with reference to certain features, those functions may be performable by other features whether described or not.

Although features have been described with reference to certain examples, those features may also be present in other examples whether described or not.

The term a' or the' is used in this document with an inclusive not an exclusive meaning. That is any reference to X comprising a/the Y indicates that X may comprise only one Y or may comprise more than one Y unless the context clearly indicates the contrary. If it is intended to use a' or 'the' with an exclusive meaning then it will be made clear in the context. In some circumstances the use of 'at least one' or 'one or more' may be used to emphasis an inclusive meaning but the absence of these terms should not be taken to infer any exclusive meaning.

The presence of a feature (or combination of features) in a claim is a reference to that feature or (combination of features) itself and also to features that achieve substantially the same technical effect (equivalent features). The equivalent features include, for example, features that are variants and achieve substantially the same result in substantially the same way. The equivalent features include, for example, features that perform substantially the same function, in substantially the same way to achieve substantially the same result.

In this description, reference has been made to various examples using adjectives or adjectival phrases to describe characteristics of the examples. Such a description of a characteristic in relation to an example indicates that the characteristic is present in some examples exactly as described and is present in other examples substantially as described.

Whilst endeavoring in the foregoing specification to draw attention to those features believed to be of importance it should be understood that the Applicant may seek protection via the claims in respect of any patentable feature or combination of features hereinbefore referred to and/or shown in the drawings whether or not emphasis has been placed thereon.

I/we claim:

Claims

CLAIMS1. An apparatus comprising: an audio transducer comprising at least one air displacement component; and a housing configured to retain the at least one air displacement component; and wherein at least part of the air displacement component and/or housing comprise self-healing material.
2. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 comprising means for detecting a trigger event associated with the audio transducer and activating the self-healing material in response to the trigger event.
3. The apparatus as claimed in claim 2 wherein the trigger event comprises detecting one or more defects of the audio transducer.
4. The apparatus as claimed in claim 3 wherein the one or more defects comprises at least one of; deformation of one or more parts of the audio transducer; dust on one or more parts of the audio transducer.
5. The apparatus as claimed in any of claims 3 to 4 wherein activating the self-healing material comprises heating the self-healing material.
6. The apparatus as claimed in claim 5 wherein activating the self-healing material comprises cooling the self-healing material after it has been heated.
7. The apparatus as claimed in any of claims 5 to 6 wherein the apparatus comprises a voice coil configured to generate heat than can be used to activate the self-healing material.
8. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the self-healing material comprises part of the at least one air displacement component.
9. The apparatus as claimed in claim 8 wherein the self-healing material comprises an edge portion of the at least one air displacement component.
10. The apparatus as claimed in claim 8 wherein the self-healing material comprises a central portion of the at least one air displacement component.
11. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the at least one air displacement component comprises any one or more of; a diaphragm, a display window, a display.
12. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the audio transducer is a speaker.
13. The apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the audio transducer is a microphone.
14. A method comprising: detecting a trigger event associated with an audio transducer whereon the audio transducer comprises at least one air displacement component and a housing configured to retain the at least one air displacement component wherein at least part of the at least one air displacement component and/or the housing comprise a self-healing material; and activating the self-healing material in response to the trigger event.
15. The method as claimed in claim 14 wherein the trigger event comprises detecting one or more defects of the audio transducer.
16 The method as claimed in claim 15 wherein the one or more defects comprises at least one of; deformation of one or more parts of the audio transducer; dust on one or more part of the audio transducer.
17. The method as claimed in any of claims 14 to 16 wherein activating the self-healing material comprises heating the self-healing material.
18. The method as claimed in claim 17 wherein activating the self-healing material comprises cooling the self-healing material after it has been heated.