Researchers have developed a method to generate sound directly from OLED displays, eliminating the need for traditional speakers. By vibrating specific areas of the display panel, they create audible sound waves. This technology allows for thinner devices, multi-channel audio output (like surround sound), and potentially invisible, integrated speakers within the screen itself. The approach utilizes the inherent flexibility and responsiveness of OLED materials, making it a promising advancement in audio-visual integration.
A recent collaborative research endeavor, spearheaded by Fraunhofer IDMT and involving industry partners such as CreaPhys GmbH and Novasentis, has culminated in a significant advancement in display technology: the integration of thin, multichannel audio systems directly into high-quality Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) displays. This innovative approach eliminates the need for traditional loudspeakers, thereby paving the way for slimmer, lighter, and more aesthetically pleasing electronic devices, including televisions, monitors, and mobile phones.
The underlying principle of this novel technology involves the utilization of exciters, which are small actuators that induce vibrations. These vibrations are then transmitted through the OLED display itself, transforming the entire display surface into a distributed mode loudspeaker (DML). This allows for the generation of sound directly from the display panel, effectively rendering the display a large diaphragm. Furthermore, by strategically positioning multiple exciters and employing sophisticated signal processing techniques, the researchers have achieved directional audio capabilities. This means that different sound sources can be localized to specific areas of the screen, creating a more immersive and engaging audio experience, especially beneficial for applications like video conferencing where individual voices can be pinpointed to their corresponding on-screen locations.
This integration offers a multitude of advantages beyond the aforementioned reduction in device bulk. It eliminates the need for dedicated speaker grilles, streamlining the device design and offering enhanced design freedom. Additionally, because the sound is emitted directly from the display surface, the audio experience becomes intrinsically linked to the visual content, creating a more cohesive and synchronized audiovisual presentation. The researchers assert that this technology is particularly well-suited for high-end applications where both visual and audio fidelity are paramount. This is due in part to the precise control over vibration afforded by the technology, which enables a high degree of audio clarity and precision.
The collaborative nature of this research project, combining the expertise of Fraunhofer IDMT in audio signal processing with the specialized knowledge of CreaPhys GmbH in exciter technology and Novasentis in micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) actuators, has been crucial to its success. The research team has successfully demonstrated the feasibility and efficacy of this integrated audio-visual technology, and they anticipate its integration into commercial products in the near future. This groundbreaking innovation has the potential to revolutionize the design and functionality of a wide range of consumer electronics, ushering in a new era of slim, integrated, and immersive audiovisual experiences.
Summary of Comments ( 58 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=44112149
Hacker News users discussed the potential applications and limitations of the new OLED-based audio technology. Some expressed excitement about its use in AR/VR headsets, transparent displays, and automotive applications, praising the elimination of bezels and improved immersion. Others were more skeptical, questioning the audio quality compared to traditional speakers, especially regarding bass response and maximum volume. Concerns about cost and longevity were also raised, with some speculating about the potential for burn-in issues similar to those experienced with OLED screens. Several commenters also pointed out the technology's similarity to bone conduction headphones, noting potential advantages in noise isolation and directional audio. Finally, a few users mentioned existing piezo-based solutions for thin displays and wondered how this new technology compared.
The Hacker News post titled "High-quality OLED displays now enabling integrated thin and multichannel audio" generated several comments discussing the technology and its potential implications.
Several commenters expressed skepticism about the practicality and market viability of the technology. One commenter questioned the claimed advantages over traditional speaker setups, pointing out the limitations in bass response and overall sound quality that a thin-film speaker would likely have. They also expressed doubt about the technology being able to deliver a true multi-channel audio experience. Another user raised concerns about the longevity and durability of such integrated speakers, especially considering the potential for damage to the screen itself affecting the audio output.
Another line of discussion focused on the potential applications of this technology. While some saw it as a potential boon for mobile devices like smartphones and tablets, enabling slimmer designs and potentially eliminating the need for separate speaker components, others questioned whether the marginal gains in thinness were worth the potential trade-offs in audio quality. One commenter suggested that the most promising application might be in wearable displays, like AR/VR headsets, where space and weight are at a premium.
Some commenters also discussed the technical aspects of the technology, questioning how the researchers achieved the claimed performance and expressing interest in the underlying materials and manufacturing processes. One user, referencing experience with similar technologies, speculated that the audio quality would likely be "tinny" and lack depth.
Finally, a few comments touched on the potential impact on accessibility, with one user suggesting that the technology could be beneficial for individuals with hearing impairments by allowing for personalized audio delivery directly to each ear.
In summary, the comments reflected a mixture of excitement, skepticism, and pragmatic analysis of the potential of this new technology. While some saw it as a promising development with a range of potential applications, others remained unconvinced of its practical benefits and long-term viability.