Modularized wireless headset device

Abstract

The present invention provides a wireless headset device / system, including a battery module, a control module and a receiver module, wherein the battery module is detachable and connected to the control module; and the receiver module is detachable and connected to the control module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a system and method for wireless headsets. Prior Technology

[0002] Headphones traditionally refer to a pair of small speaker drivers worn on or around the head of a user. They are electroacoustic transducers that convert electrical signals into corresponding sound. Headphones are also known as near-ear speakers, receivers, or earbuds. There are several types of headphones / earbuds. Typically, earbuds consist of a single unit that inserts into the user's ear canal. Another type of headphone is a bone conduction headphone, which usually wraps around the back of the head and sits in front of the ear canal, keeping the ear canal open.

[0003] A headset is an earpiece that incorporates a microphone. Headsets offer the same functionality as mobile phones, including hands-free operation. In the context of telecommunications, a headset is a combination of an earpiece and a microphone. Headsets are made with either a single earpiece (mono) or dual earpieces (binaural mono or stereo). The microphone arm of a headset can be an external microphone, where the microphone is located in front of the user's mouth, or a tube-type microphone, where the microphone is located within the earpiece and the voice reaches through a hollow tube.

[0004] Recently, headsets with active noise cancellation have become very popular. Active noise cancellation headphones use microphones, amplifiers, and speakers to pick up, amplify, and play ambient noise in an inverted manner; this eliminates unwanted noise from the environment to some extent without affecting the desired sound source, and it is not picked up and inverted by the microphone. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one embodiment, a modal wireless headset device / system is provided, including a battery module, a control module, and a receiver module, wherein the battery module is detachable and connected to the control module; and the receiver module is detachable and connected to the control module.

[0006] In another embodiment, a method for designing and assembling the wireless modal headset device / system disclosed herein is provided. [Cited and incorporated]

[0007] All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are incorporated herein by reference to the extent that each individual publication, patent or patent application is specifically and individually cited and incorporated herein by reference. Simple Explanation of the Diagram

[0008] The novel features of the invention are specifically set forth in the appended claims. The features and advantages of the invention can be better understood by referring to the following detailed description and accompanying drawings, which illustrate illustrative embodiments utilizing the principles of the invention, wherein:

[0009] Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary modular wireless headset device / system, which includes a battery module, a control module including a microphone and a control unit, and a receiver module.

[0010] Figures 2A and 2B show exemplary illustrations of where (2A) and how (2B) the battery module is connected to the control module.

[0011] Figures 3A and 3B show exemplary illustrations of a battery module directly connected to the two earbuds (3A) or an accessory module indirectly connected (via a communication device) to the battery module of the two earbuds (3B).

[0012] Figures 4A and 4B show exemplary illustrations of where (4A) and how (4B) the receiver module is connected to the control module. Implementation

[0013] References to "a particular embodiment" or similar expressions in this specification indicate that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with a particular embodiment is included in at least one particular embodiment of the invention. Therefore, the appearance of the term "in a particular embodiment" and similar expressions in this specification do not necessarily refer to the same particular embodiment.

[0014] A headset is an earpiece with a microphone. People can use the earpiece to hear sound or the microphone to record. Headsets have many uses, including call centers, telephone operators, military and law enforcement communications personnel, and other telephone-intensive jobs. They are also used at home by people who want to free their hands during telephone conversations or as hearing aids. Headsets can also be used in closed-circuit communication systems, such as when audio engineers use a mixing console to communicate with band members in a recording studio.

[0015] Headsets typically have a single speaker, like telephones, but can also be made with dual speakers. Wireless headsets, due to their small size, can easily fit into a pocket or bag. However, wireless headsets require batteries to function. Usually, a small built-in battery is charged by an external power source. When the wireless headset's battery fails or runs out of power, the headset will be unusable. Furthermore, due to their small size, the headset's functionality is limited by its fixed design, which users need to consider before using a wireless headset. Consumers can purchase many different wireless headsets based on their needs for audio quality, battery size, microphone receiver quality, and other considerations.

[0016] However, purchasing so many wireless headsets simply to allow consumers to use them for different purposes is economically impractical. For example, owning multiple headsets becomes impractical when someone needs to wear hearing aids. Typically, hearing aids cost between $1,000 and $5,000 or more. Besides needing to buy new hearing aids due to malfunctions of old ones, people may need new hearing aids due to changes in hearing and / or health; wear and tear on old hearing aids; changes in hearing aid technology (e.g., upgrading to a better receiver); and / or changes in personal finances that make them want to upgrade. Each purchase will cost an additional $1,000 to $5,000 or more. Significant savings can be achieved if the headsets are modular and the components are replaceable / upgradeable, not to mention finding a product better suited to one's needs for most (if not all) intended uses.

[0017] Therefore, there is a need for a modular wireless headset device / system that allows for switching (replacing) battery size (or battery type), different qualities / functions of the microphone or receiver, and / or other accessory modules required for special or specific needs. In some specific examples, the headset device / system of the present invention may be a hearing aid device or system.

[0018] In some specific examples, a modular wireless headset device or system is provided, including a battery module, a control module, and a receiver module, wherein the battery module is detachable and connected to the control module; and the receiver module is detachable and connected to the control module. In some specific examples, the device or system further includes an accessory module detachable and connected to the battery module. In some specific examples, the battery module further includes an accessory module. In some specific examples, the control module includes a control unit and / or a data processing unit.

[0019] Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary modular wireless headset device / system, comprising a battery module 1, a control module 2 including a microphone 4 and a control unit, and a receiver module 3. In some embodiments, the battery module is switchable (replaceable) and detachable from the headset. In some embodiments, the battery module includes a rechargeable battery. In some embodiments, the battery module includes a rechargeable or disposable replaceable battery. In some embodiments, the control module includes one or more microphones at a remote end from the receiver module (the connection point of the control module). The control module includes a control unit that provides control over the volume of the audio output, ambient mode selection, noise reduction level selection, and other controllable functions as desired by those skilled in the art. In some embodiments, the modular device / system of the present invention includes a receiver module connected to the control module. The receiver module is replaceable and switchable to various desired receivers. For example, when the wireless headset is a hearing aid device, the receiver module can be switched accordingly to a receiver suitable for people with mild, moderate, or severe hearing loss.

[0020] It will be readily recognized in the art that the device or system of the present invention supports various Bluetooth protocols, including, for example, A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Protocol), AVRCP (Audio / Video Remote Control Protocol), HFP / HSP (Hands-free Protocol / Headset Protocol), or other Bluetooth protocols. Any data can be transmitted via Bluetooth protocols between wireless headsets to a mobile phone, computer, or any device capable of processing data transmitted from the device or system.

[0021] Figure 2A provides an exemplary design where a connector / interface 14 is used to connect the battery module to the control module. Connector 14 is used for coupling and decoupling between the control module and the battery module. Connector 14 is configured to confirm a successful connection between the battery module and the control module via, for example, a click, a light, or other suitable indication. Figure 2B further illustrates how the connector operates, for example, via a first connector 141 and a second connector 142. In some specific examples, the first connector 141 on the control module is a female connector and the second connector on the battery module is a male connector, such as a Type-C USB or micro USB connector. In some specific examples, the first connector 141 is a male connector and the second connector 142 is a female connector, such as a Type-C USB or micro USB connector. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize the use of other types of connectors, such as those used in Apple products (e.g., iPhones, iPads, and other Apple products). In some specific examples, the control module provides an indication of the battery power level. When the battery is depleted or nearly depleted, the user can easily and quickly switch to a fully charged battery module or plug the battery module into any suitable power source (e.g., power bank, computer, laptop, or a suitable power cord). In some cases, the wireless headset can also transmit any data from the control module, such as transmitting recorded data to a computer or similar device via the microphone, for direct data transfer via connector 14 through a micro-USB, Type-C USB, or other similar data transfer device (e.g., a data transfer device compatible with Apple smartphones). After removing the battery module to a computer, etc., the device firmware and / or software can be updated via the same connector.

[0022] In some specific examples, as shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the device / system of the present invention further includes an accessory module (101) contained within the battery module 1 (see 3A) or separately connected to the battery module 1 (see 3B) via a wire 102 (or other suitable means for transmitting signals from the accessory module). In some specific examples, the accessory module includes an audio processing chip, one or more microphones (e.g., Bluetooth microphones or microphone arrays used for ambient sound purposes), a data storage element storing data from long-term recordings, or a data processing element configured to process data from the control module to meet specific needs such as voice recognition.

[0023] Figures 4A and 4B illustrate exemplary diagrams of where (4A) and how (4B) the receiver module is connected to the control module. The modular wireless headset of the present invention provides a switchable receiver module 31 connected to the control module 2. In some embodiments, the receiver module includes a receiver. In some embodiments, the receiver uses a balanced armature driver, a dynamic driver, or a combination thereof, allowing the user to find a suitable and appropriate receiver based on their conditions (e.g., a person with mild, moderate, or severe hearing loss can choose different receivers accordingly to better meet their needs). Unlike conventional non-removable receivers, the detachable receiver module also allows the user to easily clean the receiver. A replaceable earpiece 32 is mounted on top of the receiver module 31. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 4B, the receiver module 31 includes a mechanism for attaching to the control module 2 via a twisting action. In other embodiments, the receiver module can be connected to the control module via other types of plug and socket connectors (not shown) readily recognizable to those skilled in the art or known in the art.

[0024] The description of this invention may include flowcharts and / or block diagrams of systems, apparatuses, methods, and computer program products according to specific embodiments of the invention. It should be understood that each block in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams, and any combination of blocks in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams, can be implemented using computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be executed by a processor of a general-purpose computer or a special-purpose computer, or by a machine composed of other programmable data processing means. These computer program instructions may also be stored on a computer-readable medium to instruct a computer or other programmable data processing means to perform a specific function, including instructions for implementing the functions or operations described in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams. Computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing means to facilitate system operation steps on the computer or other programmable means and to execute the instructions on the computer or other programmable means. Sometimes, computer-executable programs are generated to implement the functions or operations shown in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams.

[0025] The implementation of this modular wireless headset has yielded significant economic benefits because any module of the modular wireless headset can be easily modified for any reason deemed necessary. The implementation of this modular wireless headset has also resulted in commercial success.

[0026] Although preferred embodiments of the invention have been shown and described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these embodiments are provided by way of example only. Various changes, modifications, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein can be used to practice the invention. The purpose is to define the scope of the invention by the following claims, and thereby to cover the methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents.

[0027] 1: Battery Module 2: Control Module 3: Receiver Module 4: Microphone 14: Connector 141: First Connector 142: Second connector 101: Attachment Module 102: Electrical wire 31: Receiver Module 32: Earplugs

[0028] none

Claims

1. A modular wireless headset device, comprising a battery module, a control module, a receiver module, and an accessory module, wherein the receiver module includes a receiver using a balanced armature driver or a dynamic driver, the accessory module is incorporated into the battery module or connected to the battery module via a wire, and includes a data processing element configured to process data from the control module for voice recognition, wherein the battery module is detachably connected to the control module; and the receiver module is detachably connected to the control module.

2. The modular wireless headset device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the battery module comprises a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery.

3. The modular wireless headset device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the battery module includes a rechargeable or disposable replaceable battery.

4. The modular wireless headset device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control module includes a control unit that provides control over the volume of the audio output, ambient mode selection, noise reduction level selection, and other desired controllable functions.

5. The modular wireless headset device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the battery module is connected to the control module via a connector.

6. The modular wireless headset device as claimed in claim 5, wherein the connector is configured to confirm a successful connection between the battery module and the control module.

7. The modular wireless headset device as described in claim 6, wherein the successful connection is confirmed by a click sound or light.

8. The modular wireless headset device as claimed in claim 5, wherein the connector is configured as a micro USB, USB-C, or lighting connector.

9. The modular wireless headset device as claimed in claim 8, wherein the connector is configured to have a first connector on the control module and a second connector on the battery module.

10. The modular wireless headset device as claimed in claim 9, wherein the first connector on the control module is a female connector and the second connector on the battery module is a male connector.

11. The modular wireless headset device as claimed in claim 9, wherein the first connector on the control module is a male connector and the second connector on the battery module is a female connector.

12. The modular wireless headset device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control module provides an indication of battery power level.

13. The modular wireless headset device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the receiver module is configured to be attached to the control module by a twisting motion.

14. The modular wireless headset device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the receiver module is connected to the control module via a plug and socket connector.

15. The modular wireless headset device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the accessory module further includes an audio processing chip, one or more microphones, or a data storage element for storing recorded data.

16. The modular wireless headset device as claimed in claim 15, wherein the one or more microphones include a Bluetooth microphone or a microphone array used for ambient sound purposes.

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