WO2006115383A1

WO2006115383A1 - Central loudspeaker cluster system

Info

Publication number: WO2006115383A1
Application number: PCT/KR2006/001591
Authority: WO
Inventors: Young Ho Sim
Original assignee: Young Ho Sim
Priority date: 2005-04-28
Filing date: 2006-04-27
Publication date: 2006-11-02
Also published as: KR100546715B1

Abstract

Disclosed therein is a novel central loudspeaker cluster system in which the coverage angle of the loudspeaker is easily and readily adjusted and the systems designers can relatively accurately establish the coverage angle of the loudspeaker in a desired direction, thereby optimizing the directivity of the loudspeaker so as to overcome the associated problems of the conventional central loudspeaker cluster system.

Description

CENTRAL LOUDSPEAKER CLUSTER SYSTEM

Technical Field

[1] The present invention relates to a central loudspeaker cluster system, and more particularly to a central loudspeaker cluster system configured such that a plurality of speakers are located at the ceiling of gymnasia, large-sized indoor arenas, etc.

Background Art

[2] In general, a loudspeaker cluster system is applied to a sound system for numerous seats in large-scaled spaces such as gymnasia, large-sized indoor theaters, etc. In particular, as shown in FlG. 1, a central loudspeaker cluster system 1000 is also applied in an indoor gymnasium and an indoor theater where a stage is disposed at the center thereof so as to increase the directivity of the loudspeaker system which directs sound toward the required seating areas, but not the stage.

[3] In the meantime, many sound systems have been designed and implemented which meet the traditional expectations for good sound coverage consistency, loudness, intelligibility and perceived good tonal quality. In addition, most systems designers use loudspeaker products which individually exhibit constant directivity over a broad frequency range. However, studies published demonstrate the negative results of physical misalignment of loudspeaker clusters and the resulting narrow band off-axis projection of lobes when even these devices are used. Practitioners such as Carey, Alison and Thrasher have developed and proposed effective techniques for arraying mid and high frequency horns for reduced problematic interaction. However, limited work has been done for practical and affordable solutions to control lobes and directivity of clusters and cabinets at lower frequencies (100Hz to 400Hz).

[4] Generally, the central loudspeaker cluster design approach has many merits with respect to high performance and potentially cost effective implementation in a large space, providing that the structure can support the mass. Disclosure of Invention

Technical Problem

[5] However, such a central loudspeaker cluster system embraces the following problems. Firstly, t he close spacing of multiple components magnifies greatly the potential for problematic interaction and resultant non-linear off axis frequency response. Secondly a central cluster, as a design approach, results in the longest aggregate projection distance to the seating areas. Thus for a given sound pressure level at the furthermost seating areas, the center cluster must produce considerably more energy in the near field than other design approaches. Technical Solution

[6] Accordingly, the present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems occurring in the prior art, and it is an object of the present invention to provide a novel central loudspeaker cluster system.

[7] Conventionally, as shown in FlG. 1, the central loudspeaker cluster system is constructed such that it is installed at the ceiling of a facility so as to be movable in vertical and horizontal directions. That is, the position of the loudspeaker cluster is movable, if necessary, so that the directivity of the loudspeaker for the seating areas is increased.

[8] However, such entire positional movement of the cluster cannot fully address and solve the above-mentioned problems. That is, the above first problem associated with t he close spacing of multiple components can be solved by meeting the requirements of the systems design in a way which reduces energy projection toward the stage and the ceiling. Further, the above second problem associated with resulting in the longest aggregate projection distance to the seating areas can be overcome by excellent vertical pattern control. In this case, the entire position of the cluster is moved, if necessary, and the resulting re-setting of the directivity of the sound system is actually impossible.

[9] Therefore, the present invention is aimed to provide a novel central loudspeaker cluster system in which the coverage angle of the loudspeaker is easily and readily adjusted and the systems designers can relatively accurately establish the coverage angle of the loudspeaker in a desired direction, thereby optimizing the directivity of the loudspeaker so as to overcome the associated problems of the conventional central loudspeaker cluster system.

Advantageous Effects

[10] According to a central loudspeaker cluster system of the present invention, the coverage angle of a loudspeaker can be accurately adjusted freely in a desired direction. Particularly, after an actuator installed at the ceiling of a facility moves a grid, the coverage angle of the loudspeaker can be freely adjusted anytime by manipulating the actuator mounted on the grid, if necessary. In addition, a laser pointer can be fixedly installed on the outer peripheral surface of the loudspeaker for emitting a light source in the same direction as the coverage direction of the loudspeaker so as to correctly visually identify and then establish the coverage angle of the loudspeaker. Accordingly, despite a modified position of the grid depending on the position of the seating areas in an arena, the coverage angle of the loudspeaker can be adjusted so as to maximally address and solve the problems occurring in the conventional central loudspeaker cluster system.

Description of Drawings [11] Further objects and advantages of the invention can be more fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[12] FIG. 1 is a schematic view illustrating a typical central loudspeaker cluster system according to the prior art;

[13] FIGs. 2 to 4 are views illustrating the technical spirit of a central loudspeaker cluster system according to the present invention;

[14] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a central loudspeaker cluster system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[15] FIG. 6 is a view illustrating a state where a grid of a central loudspeaker cluster system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is installed at the ceiling of a structure;

[16] FIG. 7 is a plan view illustrating a grid of a central loudspeaker cluster system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention in a state where the top plate of the grid is removed;

[17] FIG. 8 is a view illustrating a loudspeaker applied to a central loudspeaker cluster system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[18] FIGs. 9 and 10 are views illustrating the adjustment of the maximum and minimum coverage angles of a loudspeaker in a central loudspeaker cluster system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; and

[19] FIG. 11 is a view illustrating a loudspeaker in a central loudspeaker cluster system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention when viewed from another direction.

Best Mode

[20] Reference will now made in detail to the preferred embodiment of the present invention with reference to FIGs. 5 to 11, and t hroughout FIGs. 2 to 11, it is noted that the same reference numerals or letters will be used to designate like or equivalent elements having the same function. In the meantime, reinforced ribs (plates), bolts and screws, holes, washers, nuts, etc., for the coupling and fixing of main elements in respective drawings will be shown briefly or omitted. Parts known to those skilled in the art in the basic construction, operation and installation of the central loudspeaker cluster system will be omitted and parts related to the present invention will be described. Particularly, the ratio of the size between elements is represented somewhat differently or the size between the components coupled to each other is represented differently, but such a difference in representations of the drawings will be understood by those skilled in the art, and hence a separate explanation thereon will be omitted.

[21] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a central loudspeaker cluster system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6 is a view il- lustrating a state where a grid of a central loudspeaker cluster system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is installed at the ceiling of a structure, FlG. 7 is a plan view illustrating a grid of a central loudspeaker cluster system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention in a state where the top plate of the grid is removed, FlG. 8 is a view illustrating a loudspeaker applied to a central loudspeaker cluster system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, FlGs. 9 and 10 are views illustrating the adjustment of the maximum and minimum coverage angles of a loudspeaker in a central loudspeaker cluster system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, and FlG. 11 is a view illustrating a loudspeaker in a central loudspeaker cluster system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention when viewed from another direction.

[22] Referring to FlGs. 5 to 8, the central loudspeaker cluster system 10 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a ceiling actuator 12, a grid 20, a loudspeaker 40, a grid actuator 50, a coupling member 60, a controller 100, and a laser pointer 200.

[23] The grid 20 has a top plate 22, a bottom plate 24, and fixing brackets 26 mounted at the inside of a side plate 28 in such a fashion as to be spaced apart from one another by predetermined intervals between the top plate 22 and the bottom plate 24. The grid 20, as shown in FlG. 6, is connected to the ceiling actuator 12 installed at the ceiling 11 of the structure by means of wires 13 so that its position can be adjusted in the upward and downward directions, leftward and rightward directions, and forward and backward directions.

[24] In the meantime, as shown in FlG. 6, the grid 20 has a line patch box 14 mounted on the top surface thereof so as to be connected with a line patch box 14 mounted on the ceiling 11 so that an electric power line extending from a power distributor 102 and a line patch box 104, i.e., a control cable 15 can be extended without being twisted upon the upward and downward movements, leftward and rightward movements, and forward and backward movements of the grid 20.

[25] The loudspeaker 40 is secured to the fixing brackets 26 in such a fashion that it is disposed between two adjacent fixing brackets 26 so as to pivotally rotate at both sides thereof. The loudspeaker 40, as shown in FlG. 8, is securely coupled to the fixing brackets 26 by using a speaker bracket 44 formed of a metal plate mounted on a speaker body 42 which is typically commercially available on the market. In this case, the loudspeaker 40 is constructed such that it can be stably supported by a bearing so as to reduce a noise, etc., upon its pivotal rotation. An eye bolt 46 is mounted at the rear side end of each loudspeaker 40 so as to be coupled to one end of a wire knuckle 92 of the coupling member 60. At this time, the speaker bracket 44 coupled to the speaker body 42 is mounted with a laser pointer bracket 202 for allowing a laser pointer 200 to be fixedly mounted thereto. The reason why the laser pointer 200 is fixedly mounted to the speaker bracket 44 is that the influence of vibration generated from the loudspeaker 40 is reduced. In this embodiment, the loudspeaker 40 employs Rl model of community R-Series, but may be modified depending on the choice of the systems designers. In addition, as shown in FlG. 7, the loudspeakers 40 are installed in such a fashion as to be circularly arranged at uniform intervals about its vertical center axis. Of course, two loudspeakers 40' are downwardly installed at the lower portion of the grid 20. Since the downwardly installed loudspeakers 40' do not need to be adjusted in their coverage angles, they are fixedly installed by using a wire knuckle 92'.

[26] In this embodiment, the grid actuator 50, as shown in FlG. 11, is composed of a brake motor 52 and a decelerator 54. The decelerator 54 is configured to rotate a lead screw 82 of the coupling member 60. Of course, the configuration for the brake motor 52, the decelerator 54 and the lead screw 82 will apply a typical technique. Such a grid actuator 50 is mounted on the top plate 22 of the grid 20 and generates power in the forward and backward directions so as to adjust the coverage angle of the loudspeaker 40 in the upward and downward directions.

[27] The controller 100 is provided with control devices for controlling the ceiling actuator 12 and the grid actuator 50 from the outside, for example, from an acoustic room, etc., to change the entire position of the grid 20 or the coverage angle of the loudspeakers 40. The controller 100 is provided also with control devices for controlling the turning on/off of the laser pointer 200. The central loudspeaker cluster system 10 is provided with a power distributor 102 and a line patch

[28] box

[29] 104

[30] so that power lines for the supply of the electric power and cables for transmission of a control signal are connected to respective elements. In this embodiment, the central loudspeaker cluster system 10 is also provided with a remote controller 110 for remotely controlling the operation of the ceiling actuator 12 and the grid actuator 50 from the seating areas as well as the turning on/off of the laser pointer 200.

[31] In this embodiment, the coupling member 60 includes a lead screw 82, a table 72 and wire knuckles 92. The lead screw 82 is vertically disposed between the top plate 22 and the bottom plate 24 and turns by means of the grid actuator 50.

[32] The table 72 moves vertically in response to the turning of the lead screw 82 by means of a ball case 74 coupled to the lead screw 82. The lead screw 82 and the ball case 74 are constructed to be able to apply a linear mechanism used for a linear movement. And the wire knuckles 92 are fixedly coupled at one ends to a plurality of loudspeakers 40 and fixedly coupled at the other ends to a plurality of eye bolts of the table 72 so that the plurality of loudspeakers 40 can be coupled to the table 72 in an evenly balanced manner.

[33] Particularly, in this embodiment, the wire knuckles 92 are coupled to the table 72 in such a fashion that the other ends thereof fixedly coupled to the loudspeakers 40 are positioned more outwardly than one ends thereof fixedly coupled to the table 72. To this end, in this embodiment, the outer diameter of the table 72, as shown in FlG. 7, is set to be slightly larger than the distance between two opposed loudspeakers 40. Such a coupling structure of the loudspeakers 40 allows the rotational angle of the loudspeakers to become large even through a relative short vertical transfer distance of the table 72. In addition, as shown in FlG. 7, a guide bar 84 is vertically installed in parallel with the lead screw 82 so that the table 72 can be stably moved vertically.

[34] Referring to FlGs. 9 and 10, the central loudspeaker cluster system according to this embodiment enables the turning of the lead screw 82 through the driving force of the grid actuator 50 so that the table 72 can move vertically to freely adjust the coverage angle of the loudspeakers fixedly coupled to the table 72 by means of the wire knuckles and pivotally rotatably coupled to the fixing brackets 26. For example, when the brake motor 52 of the grid actuator 50 rotates in the forward direction, the table 72 moves upwardly along the lead screw 82 to cause the loudspeakers 40 to angularly move from a state of FlG. 9 to a state of FlG. 10 so that the coverage angle of the loudspeakers is inclined downwardly. On the other hand, when the brake motor 52 of the grid actuator 50 rotates in the rearward direction, the table 72 moves downwardly along the lead screw 82 to cause the loudspeakers 40 to angularly move from a state of FlG. 10 to a state of FlG. 9 so that the coverage angle of the loudspeakers is inclined upwardly. After the coverage angle of the loudspeakers 40 is changed by a desired angle range, the systems designers turns the laser pointer 200 (see FlG. 5) on to visually identify the coverage direction of the loudspeakers or accurately establish the coverage angle of the loudspeakers through the fine adjustment. Of course, after the coverage angle of the loudspeakers is established, the laser pointer 200 is turned off and the loudspeakers 40 are fixed in their positions by the grid actuator 50 and the coupling member 60.

[35] As described above, although the central loudspeaker cluster system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention has been described and shown with reference to the illustrative description and the accompanied drawings, it is merely illustrative. It is to be appreciated that those skilled in the art can variously change or modify the embodiments without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Mode for Invention

[36] To accomplish the above object, according to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a central loudspeaker cluster system configured such that a plurality of speakers are located at the ceiling of a structure including a gymnasium, a large- sized indoor arena, etc., the central loudspeaker cluster system including: a grid having a top plate, a bottom plate, and a plurality of fixing brackets mounted at the inside of a side plate thereof in such a fashion as to be spaced apart from one another by predetermined intervals between the top plate and the bottom plate; a plurality of loudspeakers secured to the fixing brackets in such a fashion that each loudspeaker is disposed between two adjacent ones of the fixing brackets so as to pivotally rotate at both sides thereof; a grid actuator mounted on the top plate of the grid and adapted to generate power in the forward and backward directions; and a coupling member adapted to couple the grid actuator with the loudspeakers so that the power generated from the grid actuator is transferred to the loudspeakers to cause the loudspeakers to be angularly moved, wherein the loudspeakers are fixed in their coverage angles by means of the coupling member and the grid actuator in a state where they are coupled to the fixing brackets so as to pivotally rotate at both sides thereof, and are adjusted in their coverage angles by means of the power generated from the grid actuator in the forward and backward directions.

[37] In the central loudspeaker cluster system according to the present invention, the coupling member may include an intermediate coupling element coupled to the grid actuator by means of a first coupling element and adapted to vertically move by means of the grid actuator, and the plurality of loudspeakers are coupled to the intermediate coupling element by means of separate second coupling elements.

[38] The central loudspeaker cluster system according to the present invention may further include: a ceiling actuator installed at the ceiling of the structure and connected with the grid by means of wires so that the position of the grid can be changed with respect to the structure by transferring the grid; a controller adapted to control the operation of the ceiling actuator and the grid actuator; and a remote controller adapted to remotely transmit a control signal for adjusting the coverage angle of the loudspeakers by operating the grid actuator to the controller.

[39] To accomplish the above object, according to another aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a central loudspeaker cluster system configured such that a plurality of speakers are located at the ceiling of a structure including a gymnasium, a large-sized indoor arena, etc., the central loudspeaker cluster system including: a grid having a top plate, a bottom plate, and a plurality of fixing brackets mounted at the inside of a side plate thereof for supporting a plurality of loudspeakers in such a fashion as to be spaced apart from one another by predetermined intervals between the top plate and the bottom plate; a plurality of laser pointers each fixedly installed on the outer peripheral surface of each loudspeaker and adapted to emit a light source in the same direction as the coverage direction of the loudspeaker, whereby the laser pointers are operated to visually identify the coverage angle of the loudspeakers.

[40] In the central loudspeaker cluster system according to the present invention, the loudspeakers may be secured to the fixing brackets in such a fashion that each loudspeaker is disposed between two adjacent ones of the fixing brackets so as to pivotally rotate at both sides thereof, and the central loudspeaker cluster system may further include: a grid actuator mounted on the top plate of the grid and adapted to generate power in the forward and backward directions; and a coupling member adapted to couple the grid actuator with the loudspeakers so that the power generated from the grid actuator is transferred to the loudspeakers to cause the loudspeakers to be angularly moved, wherein the loudspeakers are fixed in their coverage angles by means of the coupling member and the grid actuator in a state where they are coupled to the fixing brackets so as to pivotally rotate at both sides thereof, and are adjusted in their coverage angles by means of the power generated from the grid actuator in the forward and backward directions.

[41] The central loudspeaker cluster system according to the present invention may further include: a ceiling actuator installed at the ceiling of the structure and connected with the grid by means of wires so that the position of the grid can be changed with respect to the structure by transferring the grid; a controller adapted to control the operation of the ceiling actuator and the grid actuator, and the turning on/off of the laser pointers; and a remote controller adapted to remotely transmit a control signal for turning the laser points on/off and a control signal for adjusting the coverage angle of the loudspeakers by operating the grid actuator to the controller.

[42] To accomplish the above object, according to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a central loudspeaker cluster system configured such that a plurality of speakers are located at the ceiling of a structure including a gymnasium, a large-sized indoor arena, etc., the central loudspeaker cluster system including: a grid having a top plate, a bottom plate, and a plurality of fixing brackets mounted at the inside of a side plate thereof in such a fashion as to be spaced apart from one another by predetermined intervals between the top plate and the bottom plate; a ceiling actuator installed at the ceiling of the structure and connected with the grid by means of wires to transfer the grid; a plurality of loudspeakers secured to the fixing brackets in such a fashion that each loudspeaker is disposed between two adjacent ones of the fixing brackets so as to pivotally rotate at both sides thereof; a grid actuator mounted on the top plate of the grid and adapted to generate power in the forward and backward directions; a controller adapted to control the operation of the ceiling actuator and the grid actuator; and a coupling member adapted to couple the grid actuator with the loudspeakers so that the power generated from the grid actuator is transferred to the loudspeakers to cause the loudspeakers to be angularly moved, wherein the loudspeakers are fixed in their coverage angles by means of the coupling member and the grid actuator in a state where they are coupled to the fixing brackets so as to pivotally rotate at both sides thereof, and are adjusted in their coverage angles by means of the power generated from the grid actuator in the forward and backward directions.

[43] The central loudspeaker cluster system according to the present invention may further include a plurality of laser pointers each fixedly installed on the outer peripheral surface of each loudspeaker and adapted to emit a light source in the same direction as the coverage direction of the loudspeaker, whereby the laser pointers are operated to visually identify the coverage angle of the loudspeakers.

[44] In the central loudspeaker cluster system according to the present invention, the controller controls the operation of the ceiling actuator and the grid actuator, and the turning on/off of the laser pointers, and the central loudspeaker cluster system may further include a remote controller adapted to remotely transmit a control signal for turning the laser points on/off and a control signal for adjusting the coverage angle of the loudspeakers by operating the grid actuator to the controller.

[45] In the central loudspeaker cluster system according to the present invention, the coupling member may include: a lead screw vertically disposed between the top plate and the bottom plate and adapted to turn by means of the grid actuator; a table coupled to the lead screw and adapted to move vertically in response to the turning of the lead screw; and a plurality of wire knuckles fixedly coupled at one ends to the plurality of loudspeakers and fixedly coupled at the other ends to the table so that the plurality of loudspeakers can be coupled to the table in an evenly balanced manner.

[46] In the central loudspeaker cluster system according to the present invention, the wire knuckles may be coupled to the table in such a fashion that the other ends thereof fixedly coupled to the loudspeakers are positioned more outwardly than one ends thereof fixedly coupled to the table.

[47] The central loudspeaker cluster system according to the present invention enables the coverage angle of a loudspeaker to be accurately adjusted freely in a desired direction.

[48] The conventional central loudspeaker cluster system is constructed such that only the position of the grid mounted with loudspeakers can be adjusted using the ceiling actuator (the grid is descended to the bottom to adjust the position of the loudspeakers, but such adjustment is actually impossible.). On the other hand, the central loudspeaker cluster system according to the present invention is constructed such that after an actuator installed at the ceiling of a facility moves a grid, the coverage angle of the loudspeakers can be freely adjusted anytime by manipulating the grid actuator mounted on the grid, if necessary.

[49] In addition, the central loudspeaker cluster system according to the present invention enables a laser pointer to be fixedly installed on the outer peripheral surface of the loudspeaker for emitting a light source in the same direction as the coverage direction of the loudspeaker so as to correctly visually identify and then establish the coverage angle of the loudspeakers.

[50] Such a central loudspeaker cluster system according to the present invention enables the coverage angle of the loudspeakers to be freely adjusted anytime, and the coverage angle of the loudspeaker to be correctly visually identified and then established in a desired direction. Accordingly, despite a modified position of the grid depending on the position of the seating areas in an arena, the coverage angle of the loudspeaker can be adjusted so as to maximally address and solve the problems occurring in the conventional central loudspeaker cluster system.

[51] FlG. 2 is a basic schematic view illustrating a central loudspeaker cluster system according to the present invention for automatically adjusting the coverage angle of the loudspeakers, and FlG. 3 is a schematic view illustrating the concrete construction of a coupling member in the central loudspeaker cluster system of FlG. 2.

[52] Referring to FlGs. 2 and 3, in the central loudspeaker cluster system 10 according to the present invention, the loudspeakers 40 are connected to the grid actuator 50 mounted on the top plate of the grid 20 by means of the coupling member 60 so that they are fixed in their coverage angles by means of the coupling member 60 and the grid actuator 50 in a state where they are coupled to the fixing brackets of the grid so as to pivotally rotate at both sides thereof, and are adjusted in their coverage angles by means of the power generated from the grid actuator 50 in the forward and backward directions.

[53] The grid 20 includes a cabinet for allowing the plurality of loudspeakers 40 to be mounted thereto. The grid 20 is provided with a top plate 22, a bottom plate 24, and fixing brackets 26 mounted to be spaced apart from one another by predetermined intervals between the top plate 22 and the bottom plate 24. Around the top plate 22 and the bottom plates 24 is installed a side plate 28 so as to the acoustic sound of the loudspeakers is emitted to the outside while covering the inside of the grid 20. This grid 20 will be able to be manufactured in the same manner as that of a grid of a general central loudspeaker cluster system by applying typical iron plates, angles, etc. The grid 20 is connected to the ceiling actuator 12 having a motor installed at the ceiling 11 of the structure by means of wires 13 so that its position can be adjusted by the ceiling actuator 12 in the upward and downward directions, leftward and rightward directions, and forward and backward directions on the ceiling of the structure. In this case, the ceiling actuator 12 and the grid actuator 50 are connected to the controller 100 to cause the controller to control the operation thereof.

[54] In the meantime, the central loudspeaker cluster system 10 according to the present invention allows the loudspeakers 40 to be secured to the fixing brackets 26 in such a fashion that each loudspeaker is disposed between two adjacent ones of the fixing brackets so as to pivotally rotate at both sides thereof. The grid actuator 50 having a geared motor, etc., mounted thereon is mounted on the top plate 22 of the grid 50 so as to generate power in the forward and backward directions. The coupling member 60 couples the grid actuator 50 with the loudspeakers 40 so that the power generated from the grid actuator 50 is transferred to the loudspeakers 40 to cause the loudspeakers 40 to be angularly moved.

[55] The loudspeakers 40 of the present invention are typically installed in plural inside the grid to constitute the central loudspeaker cluster system. At this time, each of the plurality of loudspeakers 40, as shown in FlG. 2, can apply a separate grid actuator 50 and the coupling member 60 to independently adjust the coverage angle of the loudspeakers. Also as shown in FlG. 3, the coupling member 60 can be provided with an intermediate coupling element 70 to equally adjust the coverage angles of all the loudspeakers using one grid actuator 50. Of course, in case of applying different loudspeakers 40, the former case is appropriate. However, in consideration of the installation structure of the loudspeakers of the typical central loudspeaker cluster system (as shown in FlG. 7, the loudspeakers 40 are equidistantly installed at the inner periphery of the grid except the loudspeakers 40' installed downwardly in the typical central loudspeaker cluster system), the latter case is simpler structurally and the setting of the coverage angle of the loudspeakers is more convenient. In case of providing the intermediate coupling element 70 in the coupling member 60 like the latter case, the intermediate coupling element 70 is coupled to the grid actuator 50 by means of a first coupling element 82 so as to vertically move by means of the grid actuator 50, and the plurality of loudspeakers 40 are coupled to the intermediate coupling element 70 by means of separate second coupling elements 92.

[56] In this case, the coupling member 60 of the present invention can be configured in various shapes. That is, the coupling member is adapted to couple the grid actuator 50 with the loudspeakers 40 so that the power generated from the grid actuator 50 is transferred to the loudspeakers 40 to cause the loudspeakers 40 to be angularly moved. For this reason, the coupling member 60 may be constructed by applying a combined structure of a wire and a knuckle, but may be constructed by applying the intermediate coupling element 70, the first coupling element 82 (i.e., a wire), and the second coupling element 92 (i.e., a wire knuckles) as described above. Like a preferred embodiment of the present invention which will be described later, the coupling member 60 can be configured to have a more effective driving structure. [57] FlG. 4 is a view illustrating a laser pointer for allowing the coverage angle of the loudspeaker to be visually identified in a central loudspeaker cluster system according to the present invention.

[58] Referring to FlG. 4, the central loudspeaker cluster system 10 according to the present invention has each laser pointer 200 fixedly installed on the outer peripheral surface of each loudspeaker 400 so that the laser pointer 200 is operated to visually identify the coverage angle of the loudspeaker. At this time, the laser pointer 200 is fixedly installed in such a fashion as to emit a light source in the same direction as the coverage direction of the loudspeaker 40, i.e., the direction where an acoustic sound is output, and is adapted to be supported by a laser pointer bracket 202 fixed to the outer peripheral surface of the loudspeaker 40.

[59] The central loudspeaker cluster system 10 having such a laser pointer 200 improves inaccuracy occurring when existing systems designers establish the coverage angle of the loudspeaker according to their design senses so as to more accurately set the coverage angle of the loudspeaker

[60] In addition, the central loudspeaker cluster system 10 having such a laser pointer

200 employs the grid actuator 50 and the coupling member 60 to allow the loudspeakers 40 to be fixed in their coverage angles by means of the coupling member and the grid actuator in a state where they are coupled to the fixing brackets so as to pivotally rotate at both sides thereof, and to be adjusted in their coverage angles by means of the power generated from the grid actuator in the forward and backward directions.

[61] In the meantime, the central loudspeaker cluster system 10 according to the present invention can be provided with the controller 100 and the remote controller which is wirelessly communicated so that the operation of the ceiling actuator 12 and the grid actuator 50, and the turning on/off of the laser pointer 200 can be remotely controlled to thereby more accurately freely change the coverage angle of the loudspeakers.

Industrial Applicability

[62] According to a central loudspeaker cluster system of the present invention, the coverage angle of a loudspeaker can be accurately adjusted freely in a desired direction. Particularly, after an actuator installed at the ceiling of a facility moves a grid, the coverage angle of the loudspeaker can be freely adjusted anytime by manipulating the actuator mounted on the grid, if necessary. In addition, a laser pointer can be fixedly installed on the outer peripheral surface of the loudspeaker for emitting a light source in the same direction as the coverage direction of the loudspeaker so as to correctly visually identify and then establish the coverage angle of the loudspeaker. Accordingly, despite a modified position of the grid depending on the position of the seating areas in an arena, the coverage angle of the loudspeaker can be adjusted so as to maximally address and solve the problems occurring in the conventional central loudspeaker cluster system.

[63] While the present invention has been described with reference to the particular illustrative embodiments, it is not to be restricted by the embodiments but only by the appended claims. It is to be appreciated that those skilled in the art can change or modify the embodiments without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

Claims

[1] A central loudspeaker cluster system configured such that a plurality of speakers are located at the ceiling of a structure including a gymnasium, a large-sized indoor arena, etc., the central loudspeaker cluster system comprising: a grid having a top plate, a bottom plate, and a plurality of fixing brackets mounted at the inside of a side plate thereof in such a fashion as to be spaced apart from one another by predetermined intervals between the top plate and the bottom plate; a plurality of loudspeakers secured to the fixing brackets in such a fashion that each loudspeaker is disposed between two adjacent ones of the fixing brackets so as to pivotally rotate at both sides thereof; a grid actuator mounted on the top plate of the grid and adapted to generate power in the forward and backward directions; and a coupling member adapted to couple the grid actuator with the loudspeakers so that the power generated from the grid actuator is transferred to the loudspeakers to cause the loudspeakers to be angularly moved, wherein the loudspeakers are fixed in their coverage angles by means of the coupling member and the grid actuator in a state where they are coupled to the fixing brackets so as to pivotally rotate at both sides thereof, and are adjusted in their coverage angles by means of the power generated from the grid actuator in the forward and backward directions.

[2] The central loudspeaker cluster system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the coupling member includes an intermediate coupling element coupled to the grid actuator by means of a first coupling element and adapted to vertically move by means of the grid actuator, and the plurality of loudspeakers are coupled to the intermediate coupling element by means of separate second coupling elements.

[3] The central loudspeaker cluster system as claimed in claim 1 or 2, further comprising: a ceiling actuator installed at the ceiling of the structure and connected with the grid by means of wires so that the position of the grid can be changed with respect to the structure by transferring the grid; a controller adapted to control the operation of the ceiling actuator and the grid actuator; and a remote controller adapted to remotely transmit a control signal for adjusting the coverage angle of the loudspeakers by operating the grid actuator to the controller.

[4] A central loudspeaker cluster system configured such that a plurality of speakers are located at the ceiling of a structure including a gymnasium, a large-sized indoor arena, etc., the central loudspeaker cluster system comprising: a grid having a top plate, a bottom plate, and a plurality of fixing brackets mounted at the inside of a side plate thereof for supporting a plurality of loudspeakers in such a fashion as to be spaced apart from one another by predetermined intervals between the top plate and the bottom plate; a plurality of laser pointers each fixedly installed on the outer peripheral surface of each loudspeaker and adapted to emit a light source in the same direction as the coverage direction of the loudspeaker, whereby the laser pointers are operated to visually identify the coverage angle of the loudspeakers.

[5] The central loudspeaker cluster system as claimed in claim 4, wherein the loudspeakers are secured to the fixing brackets in such a fashion that each loudspeaker is disposed between two adjacent ones of the fixing brackets so as to pivotally rotate at both sides thereof, and wherein the central loudspeaker cluster system further includes: a grid actuator mounted on the top plate of the grid and adapted to generate power in the forward and backward directions; and a coupling member adapted to couple the grid actuator with the loudspeakers so that the power generated from the grid actuator is transferred to the loudspeakers to cause the loudspeakers to be angularly moved, wherein the loudspeakers are fixed in their coverage angles by means of the coupling member and the grid actuator in a state where they are coupled to the fixing brackets so as to pivotally rotate at both sides thereof, and are adjusted in their coverage angles by means of the power generated from the grid actuator in the forward and backward directions.

[6] The central loudspeaker cluster system as claimed in claim 5, further comprising: a ceiling actuator installed at the ceiling of the structure and connected with the grid by means of wires so that the position of the grid can be changed with respect to the structure by transferring the grid; a controller adapted to control the operation of the ceiling actuator and the grid actuator, and the turning on/off of th e laser pointers; and a remote controller adapted to remotely transmit a control signal for turning the laser points on/off and a control signal for adjusting the coverage angle of the loudspeakers by operating the grid actuator to the controller.

[7] A central loudspeaker cluster system configured such that a plurality of speakers are located at the ceiling of a structure including a gymnasium, a large-sized indoor arena, etc., the central loudspeaker cluster system comprising: a grid having a top plate, a bottom plate, and a plurality of fixing brackets mounted at the inside of a side plate thereof in such a fashion as to be spaced apart from one another by predetermined intervals between the top plate and the bottom plate; a ceiling actuator installed at the ceiling of the structure and connected with the grid by means of wires to transfer the grid; a plurality of loudspeakers secured to the fixing brackets in such a fashion that each loudspeaker is disposed between two adjacent ones of the fixing brackets so as to pivotally rotate at both sides thereof; a grid actuator mounted on the top plate of the grid and adapted to generate power in the forward and backward directions; a controller adapted to control the operation of the ceiling actuator and the grid actuator; and a coupling member adapted to couple the grid actuator with the loudspeakers so that the power generated from the grid actuator is transferred to the loudspeakers to cause the loudspeakers to be angularly moved, wherein the loudspeakers are fixed in their coverage angles by means of the coupling member and the grid actuator in a state where they are coupled to the fixing brackets so as to pivotally rotate at both sides thereof, and are adjusted in their coverage angles by means of the power generated from the grid actuator in the forward and backward directions.

[8] The central loudspeaker cluster system as claimed in claim 7, further comprises a plurality of laser pointers each fixedly installed on the outer peripheral surface of each loudspeaker and adapted to emit a light source in the same direction as the coverage direction of the loudspeaker, whereby the laser pointers are operated to visually identify the coverage angle of the loudspeakers.

[9] The central loudspeaker cluster system as claimed in claim 8, wherein the controller controls the operation of the ceiling actuator and the grid actuator, and the turning on/off of the laser pointers, and wherein the central loudspeaker cluster system further comprises a remote controller adapted to remotely transmit a control signal for turning the laser points on/off and a control signal for adjusting the coverage angle of the loudspeakers by operating the grid actuator to the controller.

[10] The central loudspeaker cluster system as claimed in claim 7 or 8, wherein the coupling member comprises: a lead screw vertically disposed between the top plate and the bottom plate and adapted to turn by means of the grid actuator; a table coupled o the lead screw and adapted to move vertically in response to the turning of the lead screw; and a plurality of wire knuckles fixedly coupled at one ends to the plurality of loudspeakers and fixedly coupled at the other ends to the table so that the plurality of loudspeakers can be coupled to the table in an evenly balanced manner.

[11] The central loudspeaker cluster system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the wire knuckles are coupled to the table in such a fashion that the other ends thereof fixedly coupled to the loudspeakers are positioned more outwardly than one ends thereof fixedly coupled to the table.