Hearing protection device, system and method

Abstract

A hearing protection device includes a controller configured to calculate a proximity indicator associated with a proximal hearing protection device and exchange, by a communication unit, a metadata with the proximal hearing protection device if the proximity indicator is below a first threshold value. The metadata includes a unique number associated with a proximal cellular device. Upon receiving, by the actuator, an initiation input from a user, the controller is further configured to determine, by an audio input device, an ambient sound level. The controller is further configured to transmit, by the communication unit, an initiation signal to a cellular device to initiate a proximal telephone call with the proximal cellular device using the unique number if the ambient sound level is above a second threshold value. The hearing protection device receives a proximal audio signal from the proximal hearing protection device via the proximal telephone call.

Description

[0001] HEARING PROTECTION DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to a hearing protection device, a hearing protection system, and a method for use with a hearing protection device.

[0004] Background

[0005] Safety is an important concern in any workplace and requires compliance with evolving rules and regulations. Companies or businesses employing workers wearing articles of personal protective equipment (PPE) (e.g., hearing protection devices) may want to ensure that the workers are complying with relevant laws, regulations, and company policies related to proper use and maintenance of the PPE. Of particular concern is the ability of workers to maintain safety while also being able to communicate with one another effectively in a work environment. Different communication options exist for communicating in noisy environments.

[0006] Summary

[0007] In a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a hearing protection device associated with a user. The hearing protection device includes an audio input device and an actuator configured to receive an input from the user. The hearing protection device further includes a communication unit communicably coupled to a cellular device via a first communication protocol. The hearing protection device is configured to receive an audio signal from the cellular device when the cellular device is in a telephone call via a second communication protocol different from the first communication protocol. The communication unit is configured to communicably couple to a proximal hearing protection device associated with a proximal user via the first communication protocol. The proximal hearing protection device is communicably coupled to a proximal cellular device via the first communication protocol. The cellular device is configured to communicate with the proximal cellular device via the second communication protocol. The hearing protection device further includes a controller communicably coupled to an actuator, an audio input device, and a communication unit. The controller is configured to calculate a proximity indicator associated with the proximal hearing protection device. The proximity indicator is indicative of a proximity of the proximal hearing protection device relative to the hearing protection device. The controller is further configured to exchange, by the communication unit, a metadata with the proximal hearing protection device if the proximity indicator is below a first threshold value. The metadata includes at least a unique number associated with the proximal cellular device. Upon receiving, by an actuator, an initiation input from the user, the controller is further configured to determine, by an audio input device, an ambient sound level. The controller is further configured to determine if the ambient sound level is above a second threshold value. The controller is further configured to transmit, by the communication unit, an initiation signal to the cellular device to initiate a proximal telephone call from the cellular device to the proximal cellular device using the unique number if the ambient sound level is above the second threshold value. The hearing protection device receives a proximal audio signal from the proximal hearing protection device via the proximal telephone call between the cellular device and the proximal cellular device.

[0008] In a second aspect, the present disclosure provides a hearing protection system. The hearing protection system includes a plurality of hearing protection devices associated with a plurality of users. The hearing protection system further includes a plurality of cellular devices corresponding to the plurality of hearing protection devices, such that each cellular device from the plurality of cellular devices is associated with a corresponding hearing protection device from the plurality of hearing protection devices. Each hearing protection device includes an audio input device and an actuator configured to receive an input from a corresponding user from the plurality of users. Each hearing protection device further includes a communication unit communicably coupled to a cellular device associated with the hearing protection device via a first communication protocol. The hearing protection device is configured to receive an audio signal from the cellular device when the cellular device is in a telephone call via a second communication protocol different from the first communication protocol. The communication unit is configured to communicably couple to a proximal hearing protection device from the plurality of hearing protection devices via the first communication protocol. The communication unit of the proximal hearing protection device is communicably coupled to a proximal cellular device from the plurality of cellular devices via the first communication protocol. The cellular device is configured to communicate with the proximal cellular device via the second communication protocol. Each hearing protection device further includes a controller communicably coupled to an actuator, an audio input device, and a communication unit. The controller is configured to calculate a proximity indicator associated with the proximal hearing protection device. The proximity indicator is indicative of a proximity of the proximal hearing protection device relative to the hearing protection device. The controller is further configured exchange, by the communication unit, a metadata with the proximal hearing protection device if the proximity indicator is below a first threshold value. The metadata includes at least a unique number associated with the proximal cellular device. Upon receiving, by the actuator, an initiation input from the corresponding user, the controller is further configured to determine, by the audio input device, an ambient sound level of an ambient sound. The controller is further configured to determine if the ambient sound level is above a second threshold value. The controller is further configured to transmit, by the communication unit, an initiation signal to the cellular device to initiate a proximal telephone call from the cellular device to the proximal cellular device using the unique number if the ambient sound level is above the second threshold value. The hearing protection device receives a proximal audio signal from the proximal hearing protection device via the proximal telephone call between the cellular device and the proximal cellular device.

[0009] In a third aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for use with a hearing protection device having an audio input device, an actuator, a communication unit, and a controller. The method includes communicably coupling, by the communication unit, the hearing protection device to a cellular device via a first communication protocol. The hearing protection device is configured to receive an audio signal from the cellular device when the cellular device is in a telephone call via a second communication protocol different from the first communication protocol. The method further includes communicably coupling, by the communication unit, the hearing protection device to a proximal hearing protection device associated with a proximal user via the first communication protocol. The proximal hearing protection device is communicably coupled to a proximal cellular device via the first communication protocol. The cellular device is configured to communicate with the proximal cellular device via the second communication protocol. The method further includes calculating, by the controller, a proximity indicator associated with the proximal hearing protection device, wherein the proximity indicator is indicative of a proximity of the proximal hearing protection device relative to the hearing protection device. The method further includes exchanging, by the communication unit, a metadata with the proximal hearing protection device if the proximity indicator is below a first threshold value. The metadata includes at least a unique number associated with the proximal cellular device. The method further includes receiving, by the actuator, an initiation input from a user of the hearing protection device. The method further includes determining, by the audio input device, an ambient sound level of an ambient sound upon receiving the initiation input from the user. The method further includes determining, by the controller, if the ambient sound level is above a second threshold value. The method further includes transmitting, by the communication unit, an initiation signal to the cellular device to initiate a proximal telephone call from the cellular device to the proximal cellular device using the unique number if the ambient sound level is above the second threshold value. The method further includes receiving, at the hearing protection device, a proximal audio signal from the proximal hearing protection device via the proximal telephone call between the cellular device and the proximal cellular device.

[0010] The details of one or more examples of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the disclosure will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

[0011] Brief Description of Drawings

[0012] Exemplary embodiments disclosed herein may be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description in connection with the following figures. The figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. Like numbers are used in the figures refer to like components. However, it will be understood that the use of a number to refer to a component in a given figure is not intended to limit the component in another figure labeled with the same number.

[0013] FIG. l is a schematic view of a hearing protection system, in accordance with embodiments herein.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a hearing protection device and a proximal hearing protection device of the hearing protection system, in accordance with embodiments herein.

[0015] FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a method for use with the hearing protection device, in accordance with embodiments herein.

[0016] Detailed Description

[0017] In the following description, reference is made to the accompanying figures that form a part thereof and in which various embodiments are shown by way of illustration. It is to be understood that other embodiments are contemplated and may be made without departing from the scope or spirit of the present disclosure. The following detailed description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[0018] In the following disclosure, the following definitions are adopted.

[0019] As used herein, the term “auditory cup” generally refers to a component that is dimensioned to encircle and fully enclose an ear of a wearer and is constructed to provide sound attenuation.

[0020] As used herein, the term “headband” generally refers to a device that is constructed to retain an auditory cup and compress the auditory cup against a head of a wearer. As used herein, the term “communication” may refer to any information, data, and / or signal that is provided, transmitted, received, and / or otherwise processed by an entity, and / or that is shared or exchanged between two or more people, devices, and / or other entities.

[0021] As used herein, the term “hearing protective device” generally refers to a personal protective equipment (PPE) article worn to reduce harmful auditory or annoying subjective effects of sound. As used herein, the term “hearing protection device” may refer either to passive hearing protection or active hearing protection devices.

[0022] As used herein, the term “coupled” generally means either a direct connection between two or more elements that are connected or an indirect connection through one or more passive or active intermediary devices.

[0023] As used herein, the term “communicably coupled” generally refers to any type of connection or coupling that allows for exchange or sharing of information. The term communicably coupled may include, but is not limited to, electrically coupled (e.g., through a wire), optically coupled (e.g., through an optical cable), wirelessly coupled (e.g., through a radio frequency or other similar technologies), and / orthe like. The technology by which the information is transmitted is not material to the meaning of communicably coupled.

[0024] As used herein, the term “direct wireless communication” may refer to any means of communication between two or more devices or parties that exists when a communication link is established between the two or more devices or parties (without using any routing or other intervening device).

[0025] As used herein, the terms “network” and “communication network” may be associated with transmission of messages, packets, signals, and / or other forms of information between and / or within one or more network devices. In some examples, the network may include one or more wired and / or wireless networks operated in accordance with any communication standard that is or becomes known or practicable. As used herein, the term “communication protocol” refers to any communication standard used in such wired and / or wireless networks.

[0026] As used herein, the term “communication protocol” (either wired or wireless) generally refers to a set of standardized rules or instructions implemented by a communication device and / or a system to communicate with other devices and / or systems, including instructions for packetizing / depacketizing data, modulating / demodulating signals, implementation of protocols stacks, and / or the like.

[0027] As used herein, all numbers should be considered modified by the term “about”. As used herein, “a,” “an,” “the,” “at least one,” and “one or more” are used interchangeably. As used herein as a modifier to a property or attribute, the term “generally”, unless otherwise specifically defined, means that the property or attribute would be readily recognizable by a person of ordinary skill but without requiring absolute precision or a perfect match (e.g., within + / - 20 % for quantifiable properties).

[0028] The term “substantially”, unless otherwise specifically defined, means to a high degree of approximation (e.g., within + / - 10% for quantifiable properties) but again without requiring absolute precision or a perfect match.

[0029] As used herein, the term “configured to” and like is at least as restrictive as the term “adapted to” and requires actual design intention to perform the specified function rather than mere physical capability of performing such a function.

[0030] The term “about”, unless otherwise specifically defined, means to a high degree of approximation (e.g., within + / - 5% for quantifiable properties) but again without requiring absolute precision or a perfect match.

[0031] As used herein, the terms “first” and “second” are used as identifiers. Therefore, such terms should not be construed as limiting of this disclosure. The terms “first” and “second” when used in conjunction with a feature or an element can be interchanged throughout the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0032] As used herein, “at least one of A and B” should be understood to mean “only A, only B, or both A and B”.

[0033] Companies or businesses employing workers wearing articles of personal protective equipment (PPE) (e.g., hearing protection devices) want to ensure that workers are complying with relevant laws, regulations, and company policies related to proper use and maintenance of the PPE. This may limit the ability of the workers to be able to communicate with one another in an efficient manner, which may be important for productivity of the workers. Different communication options exist for communicating in noisy environments. Communication needs to be seamless and smooth, otherwise it may be more convenient to remove the PPE and communicate without it, which may be harmful to the workers or may result in breaching compliance rules of the workplace.

[0034] Embodiments herein include a hearing protection device associated with a user. The hearing protection device includes an audio input device and an actuator configured to receive an input from the user. The hearing protection device further includes a communication unit communicably coupled to a cellular device via a first communication protocol. The hearing protection device is configured to receive an audio signal from the cellular device when the cellular device is in a telephone call via a second communication protocol different from the first communication protocol. The communication unit is configured to communicably couple to a proximal hearing protection device associated with a proximal user via the first communication protocol. The proximal hearing protection device is communicably coupled to a proximal cellular device via the first communication protocol. The cellular device is configured to communicate with the proximal cellular device via the second communication protocol.

[0035] The hearing protection device further includes a controller communicably coupled to an actuator, an audio input device, and a communication unit. The controller is configured to calculate a proximity indicator associated with the proximal hearing protection device. The proximity indicator is indicative of a proximity of the proximal hearing protection device relative to the hearing protection device. The controller is further configured to exchange, by the communication unit, a metadata with the proximal hearing protection device if the proximity indicator is below a first threshold value. The metadata includes at least a unique number associated with the proximal cellular device. Upon receiving, by the actuator, an initiation input from the user, the controller is further configured to determine, by the audio input device, an ambient sound level of an ambient sound. The controller is further configured to determine if the ambient sound level is above a second threshold value. The controller is further configured to transmit, by the communication unit, an initiation signal to the cellular device to initiate a proximal telephone call from the cellular device to the proximal cellular device using the unique number if the ambient sound level is above the second threshold value. The hearing protection device receives a proximal audio signal from the proximal hearing protection device via the proximal telephone call between the cellular device and the proximal cellular device.

[0036] In some examples, the first communication protocol is a first wireless communication protocol, such as Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). Further, in some examples, the second communication protocol is a second wireless communication protocol, such as a cellular communication protocol used by a cellular network.

[0037] Hearing protection devices in embodiments herein allow for communication with the proximal hearing protection device in a high noise environment. The hearing protection device may automatically exchange metadata with the proximal hearing protection device, thereby enabling access to the unique number associated with the proximal cellular device for initiating the proximal telephone call. The user of the hearing protection device may only need to provide the initiation input to the actuator and the controller may automatically determine if the proximal telephone call needs to be initiated if the ambient sound level is above the second threshold value. This may enable seamless and smooth communication with the proximal hearing protection device.

[0038] Referring now to the Figures, FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a hearing protection system 100. Hearing protection system 100 includes a plurality of hearing protection devices 110 associated with a plurality of users 102. The plurality of hearing protection devices 110 includes multiple hearing protection device 112-1, 112-2, ... , 112-N (collectively referred to as, hearing protection devices 112), where N is a positive integer corresponding to a total number of the hearing protection devices 112. The plurality of users 102 include multiple users 104-1, 104-2, . . . , 104-N (collectively referred to as, users 104).

[0039] The hearing protection devices 112-1, 112-2, 112-3, 112-4 from the plurality of hearing protection devices 110 and the corresponding users 104-1, 104-2, 104-3, 104-4 from the plurality of users 102 are shown in FIG. 1 for the purpose of illustration. For example, hearing protection device 112-1 is associated with user 104-1, hearing protection device 112-2 is associated with user 104-2, and so on. In some embodiments, each hearing protection device 112 is used to protect a corresponding user 104 against environmental noise. In some embodiments, each hearing protection device 112 may be a part of an article of personal protective equipment (PPE). In some embodiments, the plurality of hearing protection devices 110 are similar in construction and functioning.

[0040] Examples of PPE may include, but are not limited to, respiratory protection equipment (including disposable respirators, reusable respirators, powered air purifying respirators, self- contained breathing apparatus, and supplied air respirators), facemasks, oxygen tanks, air bottles, protective eyewear, such as visors, goggles, fdters or shields (any of which may include augmented reality functionality), protective headwear, such as hard hats, hoods, or helmets, hearing protection (including ear plugs and ear muffs), protective shoes, protective gloves, other protective clothing, such as coveralls, aprons, coat, vest, suits, boots, and / or gloves, protective articles, such as sensors, safety tools, detectors, global positioning devices, mining cap lamps, fall protection harnesses, exoskeletons, self-retracting lifelines, heating and cooling systems, gas detectors, and any other suitable gear configured to protect the user 104 from injury. The PPE may also include any other type of clothing or device / equipment that may be worn or used by the user 104 to protect against fire, extreme temperatures, reduced oxygen levels, explosions, reduced atmospheric pressure, radiation, and / or biologically harmful materials.

[0041] Each hearing protection device 112 includes a pair of auditory cups 114. Each auditory cup 114 may be physically coupled to an opposing end of a headband 116. The headband 116 may be made of any rigid or semi-rigid material, such as plastic, aluminum, steel, or any other suitable material, such that each auditory cup 114 may be positioned in a defined position upon a respective ear of the user 104. However, it is expressly contemplated that, in alternative embodiments, the headband 116 may be replaced with a helmet, or other headpiece . For example, the pair of auditory cups 114 may be incorporated into the helmet or other headwom equipment, e.g., a welder’s helmet. In some embodiments, each auditory cup 114 may include hardware that provides digital and analog two-way communication. Such hardware may be implemented, in part, with printed circuit boards and components integrated in the printed circuit boards.

[0042] Each hearing protection device 112 further includes a controller 120. The controller 120 is shown schematically in FIG. 1 for the purpose of illustration. In some embodiments, the controller 120 may be physically disposed within the pair of auditory cups 114. In some embodiments, the controller 120 may be embodied in a number of different ways. For example, the controller 120 may include a number of computational processing units, such as one or more of a microprocessor or other processing elements, a coprocessor, or various other computing or processing devices, including integrated circuits, such as, e.g., an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), an FPGA (field programmable gate array), or the like.

[0043] As such, whether configured by hardware or by a combination of hardware and software, the controller 120 may represent an entity (e.g., physically embodied in circuitry - in the form of processing circuitry) capable of performing operations according to some embodiments while configured accordingly. Thus, for example, when the controller 120 is embodied as an executor of software instructions, the instructions may specifically configure the controller 120 to perform the operations described herein. Alternatively, as another example, when the controller 120 is embodied as an ASIC, FPGA, or the like, the controller 120 may have specifically configured hardware for conducting the operations described herein.

[0044] Each hearing protection device 112 further includes a communication unit 122. The communication unit 122 is shown schematically in FIG. 1 for the purpose of illustration. The controller 120 is communicably coupled to the communication unit 122. In some embodiments, the communication unit 122 may include one or more antennas to receive digital and / or analog signals from devices that are remote from the hearing protection device 112. Further, the communication unit 122 may include both digital and analog components for transmission and receipt of digital and analog wireless audio communications. In some embodiments, the communication unit 122 may be enabled with Bluetooth® and / or Bluetooth® SMART® (also referred to as Bluetooth® low energy, or “BLE” as referred to here) technology. For example, the communication unit 122 may include digital and analog two-way communication components, including Bluetooth® communication functionality. However, it is expressly contemplated that, other wireless communication protocols may also be utilized.

[0045] Each hearing protection device 112 further includes an audio input device 118. The controller 120 is communicably coupled to the audio input device 118. In some embodiments, the audio input device 118 may be a microphone. The audio input device 118 may be any device that translates sound into electrical audio signals. For instance, the user 104 of the hearing protection device 112 may speak, thereby generating sound that is received by the audio input device 118. The audio input device 118 may then convert the spoken sounds into electrical audio signals that are received by the controller 120, which may subsequently provide digital and / or analog two-way communication via the communication unit 122.

[0046] In some embodiments, each auditory cup 114 may include a transducer (not shown) communicably coupled to the controller 120. The transducer may emit sound based on analog or digital signals received or generated by the communication unit 122 of the hearing protection device 112. For example, the transducer may be communicably coupled to the controller 120 that provides digital and analog signals received by the communication unit 122 for facilitating two- way communication. As an example, if the hearing protection device 112 receives a signal representing voice communication, the transducer may emit sound corresponding to the signal. Some examples of the transducer may include speakers, bone conduction devices, etc.

[0047] Each hearing protection device 112 further includes an actuator 124. The controller 120 is communicably coupled to the actuator 124. In some embodiments, the actuator 124 may be in the form of a push button (not shown) and may be located on an exterior of the hearing protection device 112. The actuator 124 is configured to receive an input Cl from the corresponding user 104. For example, the actuator 124 of the hearing protection device 112-1 is configured to receive the input Cl from the user 104-1. It is expressly contemplated that, in alternative embodiments, the actuator 124 may include any device or component configured to receive the input Cl from the corresponding user 104, e.g., a touch button or similar may be implemented. Furthermore, in some examples, the actuator 124 may be disposed remotely (i.e., not on the hearing protection device 112 but may be on other PPE associated with the user 104) and may be coupled wirelessly or physically wired to the controller 120.

[0048] The controller 120 is configured to receive a signal from the actuator 124 upon receiving the input Cl from the corresponding user 104. Subsequently, the controller 120 may selectively enable a level dependent function of an ambient sound using a modification circuit 126 for ambient listening. For example, user 104-1 may provide the input Cl to the actuator 124 when user 104-1 wishes to communicate with another user 104 proximal to the hearing protection device 112-1 through the level dependent function. The controller 120 is communicably coupled to the modification circuit 126 for enabling the level dependent function. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the modification circuit 126 may be an algorithm encoded in the controller 120.

[0049] In some embodiments, the level dependent function involves using the audio input device 118 to receive the ambient sound from a surrounding of the user 104 such that the transducer provides the ambient sound back at a safe decibel level. In other words, the level dependent function involves use of the modification circuit 126 to pick up the ambient sound through the audio input device 118 and convert it to safe levels before playing it back to the user 104 through the transducer. This includes filtering out undesired sound content, for example, actively reducing sound of a gunshot while providing human speech at substantially unchanged levels. This may allow the user 104 to communicate with other users 104 of the hearing protection system 100 while using the corresponding hearing protection device 112. Alternatively, in some other embodiments, the controller 120 is configured to receive the signal from the actuator 124 upon receiving the input Cl from the corresponding user 104 and mitigate or temporarily interrupt hearing protection function of the hearing protection device 112 through the modification circuit 126 for enabling direct conversation with other users 104 in proximity. However, this direct conversation may be difficult if the ambient sound is above a certain threshold, e.g., 95 decibel of sound pressure level (dBSPL), or even lower in some cases depending on the type of the ambient noise.

[0050] The hearing protection system 100 further includes a plurality of cellular devices 130 corresponding to the plurality of hearing protection devices 110. The plurality of cellular devices 130 include multiple cellular devices 132-1, 132-2, ... , 132-N (collectively, referred to as cellular devices 132). Each cellular device 132 from the plurality of cellular devices 130 is associated with a corresponding hearing protection device 112 from the plurality of hearing protection devices 110. For example, the cellular device 132-1 is associated with the hearing protection device 112- 1, the cellular device 132-2 is associated with the hearing protection device 112-2, and so on. The cellular devices 132-1, 132-2, 132-3, 132-4 from the plurality of cellular devices 130 corresponding to the hearing protection devices 112-1, 112-2, 112-3, 112-4 are shown in FIG. 1 for the purpose of illustration.

[0051] The communication unit 122 is communicably coupled to the cellular device 132 associated with the hearing protection device 112 via a first communication protocol Pl. Specifically, the communication unit 122 is configured to transmit and receive digital wireless audio communication from the cellular device 132 via the first communication protocol Pl. In some embodiments, the first communication protocol P 1 is Bluetooth® or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). However, it is expressly contemplated that other suitable technologies may also be utilized.

[0052] In some embodiments, the hearing protection device 112 (e.g., the hearing protection device 112-1) is configured to receive an audio signal Al from the cellular device 132 (e.g., the cellular device 132-1) when the cellular device 132 (e.g., the cellular device 132-1) is in a telephone call T1 via a second communication protocol P2 different from the first communication protocol Pl. Thus, the user 104-1 of the hearing protection device 112-1 may be able to communicate with other cellular devices 132 through the cellular device 132-1.

[0053] In some embodiments, the second communication protocol P2 is a cellular communication protocol. For example, the cellular device 132-1 may enable the telephone call T1 via a cellular wireless network. The cellular wireless network may employ various technologies including, but not limited to, enhanced data rates for global evolution (EDGE), general packet radio service (GPRS), global system for mobile communications (GSM), Internet protocol multimedia subsystem (IMS), universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS), etc. However, it is expressly contemplated that other suitable technologies may also be utilized.

[0054] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the hearing protection device 112-1 and the hearing protection device 112-2 of the hearing protection system 100. In the following description, the hearing protection device 112-2 is referred to herein as a “proximal hearing protection device 112- 2” and the associated user 104-2 is referred to herein as a “proximal user 104-2”. In some embodiments, the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 is disposed proximal to the hearing protection device 112-1. For example, the user 104-1 of the hearing protection device 112-1 may move closer to the proximal user 104-2 when the user 104-1 wishes to communicate with the proximal user 104-2 of the proximal hearing protection device 112-2.

[0055] The cellular device 132-2 associated with the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 is referred to herein as a “proximal cellular device 132-2”. The communication unit 122 of the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 is communicably coupled to the proximal cellular device 132-2 from the plurality of cellular devices 130 via the first communication protocol Pl, e.g., Bluetooth®.

[0056] The communication unit 122 of the hearing protection device 112-1 is configured to communicably couple to the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 from the plurality of hearing protection devices 110 via the first communication protocol Pl, e.g., BLE. Further, the cellular device 132-1 is configured to communicate with the proximal cellular device 132-2 via the second communication protocol P2, e.g., the cellular communication protocol.

[0057] The controller 120 of the hearing protection device 112-1 is configured to calculate a proximity indicator 150 associated with the proximal hearing protection device 112-2. The proximity indicator 150 is indicative of a proximity of the proximal hearing protection device 112- 2 relative to the hearing protection device 112-1. In some embodiments, the controller 120 may calculate the proximity indicator 150 by determining the Received Signal Strength Indication (RS SI) of a communication link between the hearing protection device 112-1 and the proximal hearing protection device 112-2. The communication link may be established via the first communication protocol P 1.

[0058] The controller 120 of the hearing protection device 112-1 is configured to compare the proximity indicator 150 with a first threshold value 152. The first threshold value 152 may indicate that the hearing protection device 112-1 is physically close to the proximal hearing protection device 112-2. The controller 120 of the hearing protection device 112-1 is further configured to exchange, by the communication unit 122, a metadata 140 with the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 when the proximity indicator 150 is below the first threshold value 152. The metadata 140 may be exchanged via the first communication protocol Pl, e.g., BLE. In some embodiments, the metadata 140 may be stored on a memory associated with the hearing protection devices 112.

[0059] The metadata 140 includes at least a unique number U associated with the proximal cellular device 132-2. The unique number U may be a specific phone number associated with the proximal cellular device 132-2. In some embodiments, the controller 120 of the hearing protection device 112-1 is further configured to encrypt the metadata 140 before exchanging the metadata 140 with the proximal hearing protection device 112-2. For example, the controller 120 may encode the metadata 140 with a predefined encryption algorithm that may be decrypted by an encryption key accessible only to the plurality of hearing protection devices 110. Similarly, the controller 120 of the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 may encrypt the metadata 140 before exchanging the metadata 140 with the hearing protection device 112-1.

[0060] The user 104 (e.g., the user 104-1) of the hearing protection device 112 (e.g., the hearing protection device 112-1) may provide an initiation input C2 to the actuator 124, e.g., by pressing a button. In some embodiments, the user 104-1 may provide the initiation input C2 when the user 104-1 wishes to communicate with the proximal user 104-2 of the proximal hearing protection device 104-2 while using the hearing protection device 112-1. Upon receiving, by the actuator 124, the initiation input C2 from the corresponding user 104 (e.g., the user 104-1), the controller 120 of the hearing protection device 112-1 is further configured to determine, by the audio input device 118, an ambient sound level 154 of an ambient sound S. The ambient sound level 154 may be indicative of a noise surrounding the hearing protection device 112-1 and the proximal hearing protection device 104-2.

[0061] The controller 120 of the hearing protection device 112-1 is further configured to determine if the ambient sound level 154 is above a second threshold value 156 (e.g., 95 dBSPL). In some embodiments, the controller 120 of the hearing protection device 112-1 is further configured to enable the level dependent function (e.g., through the modification circuit 126) of the ambient sound S if the ambient sound level 154 is below the second threshold value 156. Therefore, the user 104-1 may be able to directly communicate with the proximal user 104-2.

[0062] However, the controller 120 is further configured to transmit, by the communication unit 122, an initiation signal SI to the cellular device 132-1 to initiate a proximal telephone call T2 from the cellular device 132-1 to the proximal cellular device 132-2 using the unique number U if the ambient sound level 154 is above the second threshold value 156. Thus, the controller 120 of the hearing protection device 112-1 initiates the proximal telephone call T2 (via the second communication protocol P2) with the proximal cellular device 132-2 through the cellular device 132-1 if the ambient sound level 154 is above the second threshold value 156 and if the proximity indicator 150 is below the first threshold value 152.

[0063] The hearing protection device 112-1 receives a proximal audio signal A2 from the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 via the proximal telephone call T2 between the cellular device 132-1 and the proximal cellular device 132-2. This may allow the user 104-1 of the hearing protection device 112-1 to communicate with the proximal user 104-2 of the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 even in a high noise environment, e.g., when the ambient sound level 154 is above 95 dBSPL.

[0064] In some embodiments, controller 120 of the hearing protection device 112-1 may exchange metadata 140 with the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 even after initiation of the proximal telephone call T2. In some embodiments, metadata 140 further includes a call reception status 142 of the proximal hearing protection device 112-2. In some embodiments, the call reception status 142 may be indicative of a consent of the proximal user 104-2 of the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 to accept the proximal telephone call T2. In some embodiments, the call reception status 142 is positive R1 or negative R2. The call reception status 142 may be positive R1 when the proximal user 104-2 is available for a call whereas the call reception status 142 may be negative R2 when the proximal user 104-2 is not available for a call, e.g., in a do-not- disturb mode. In some embodiments, the call reception status 142 may be retrievable through accessible data related to the proximal user 104-2, such as metadata received from the proximal hearing protection device 112-2, the proximal cellular device 132-2, or from another source, such as a shared calendar, a task list, etc., indicative of whether or not the proximal user 104-2 can safely receive a telephone call. Another source may include workplace policies related to secure or safety critical areas where calls are not allowed.

[0065] For example, in some cases, the proximal user 104-2 may be busy with an ongoing task or with a telephone call from another user 104 from the plurality of users 102. In such cases, the proximal user 104-2 may provide inputs to the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 to fix the call reception status 142, e.g., via an actuator, or a voice command, or a user application, etc. E.g., a user may indicate if they are “available to be called” or “unavailable to be called,” for example. Alternatively, the controller 120 of the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 may automatically fix the call reception status 142 when the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 is on another telephone call. This information may be shared with the hearing protection device 112-1 through the metadata 140.

[0066] In some embodiments, the controller 120 of the hearing protection device 112-1 is further configured to obtain the call reception status 142 of the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 from metadata 140 before transmitting the initiation signal SI to the cellular device 132-1. In some embodiments, the controller 120 of the hearing protection device 112-1 is further configured to transmit the initiation signal SI to the cellular device 132-1 if the call reception status 142 of the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 is positive R1 . In some embodiments, the controller 120 of the hearing protection device 112- 1 is further configured to prevent transmission of the initiation signal SI to the cellular device 132-1 if the call reception status 142 of the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 is negative R2.

[0067] In some embodiments, the controller 120 of the hearing protection device 112-1 is further configured to transmit, by the communication unit 122, an initiation alert Bl to the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 via the first communication protocol Pl (e.g., BLE) before the initiation of the proximal telephone call T2. The communication unit 122 of the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 may receive the initiation alert Bl from the communication unit 122 of the hearing protection device 112-1. Thus, the controller 120 of the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 may be intimated about the incoming proximal telephone call T2. In some embodiments, upon receiving the initiation alert Bl, the controller 120 of the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 is further configured to transmit, by the communication unit 122, an acceptance signal S2 to the proximal cellular device 132-2, such that the proximal cellular device 132-2 automatically accepts the proximal telephone call T2 initiated by the cellular device 132-1. Through the initiation alert Bl, the controller 120 of the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 may anticipate the proximal telephone call T2. The controller 120 of the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 may automatically accept the proximal telephone call T2 without the need for any intervention from the proximal user 104-2. This may allow seamless communication between the user 104-1 and the proximal user 104-2 via the proximal telephone call T2.

[0068] In some embodiments, a group call may also be possible between multiple users 104 of the hearing protection system 100. For example, one of the plurality of hearing protection devices 110 may initiate a telephone call with multiple users 104 that are proximal to the one hearing protection device 112. In such cases, metadata 140 may be exchanged with all the hearing protection devices 112 that are proximal to each other. Each hearing protection device 112 may individually choose to accept or reject the group call. In some embodiments, each hearing protection device 112 may individually fix a corresponding call reception status for accepting or rejecting the telephone call. Thus, each user 104 may be able to control if they would like to participate in the group call.

[0069] In some embodiments, the controller 120 of the hearing protection device 112-1 is further configured to receive, by the actuator 124, a termination input C3 from the corresponding user 104-1 after the initiation of the proximal telephone call T2. The user 104-1 may provide the termination input C3 when the user 104-1 wishes to end the proximal telephone call T2. In some embodiments, the controller 120 of the hearing protection device 112-1 is further configured to transmit, by the communication unit 122, a termination signal S3 to the cellular device 132-1 to terminate the proximal telephone call T2 upon receiving the termination input C3 from the user 104-1.

[0070] The controller 120 is further configured to transmit, by the communication unit 122, a termination alert B2 to the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 via the first communication protocol Pl (e.g., BLE) before the termination of the proximal telephone call T2. Thus, through the termination alert B2, the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 may anticipate that the proximal telephone call T2 is going to end. In some embodiments, the controller 120 of the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 may generate an alert (e.g., a sound alert, a haptic alert, etc.) for the proximal user 104-2 to indicate that the proximal telephone call T2 is about to end. FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a method 200 for use with the hearing protection device 112 (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) having the audio input device 118, the actuator 124, the communication unit 122, and the controller 120. The method 200 may be implemented using the hearing protection system 100 of FIGS. 1 and 2. However, while method 200 is described in the context of FIGS. 1-3, it is expressly contemplated that the hearing protection devices 112 and the hearing protection system 100 of FIGS. 1-2 may operate in a process other than that of method 200. It is further contemplated that method 200 may be practiced with other suitable devices and / or systems. FIG. 3 is described with reference to the hearing protection device 112-1 and the cellular device 132-1 associated with the user 104-1, and the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 and the proximal cellular device 132-2 associated with the proximal user 104-2 for example purposes only and is not intended to limit the method 200 to operation only using the hearing protection devices 112 and the cellular devices 132.

[0071] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, at block 202, the communication unit 122 couples the hearing protection device 112-1 to the cellular device 132-1 via the first communication protocol Pl. In some embodiments, the first communication protocol P 1 is Bluetooth® or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). The hearing protection device 112-1 is configured to receive the audio signal Al from the cellular device 132-1 when the cellular device 132-1 is in the telephone call T1 via the second communication protocol P2 different from the first communication protocol Pl. In some embodiments, the second communication protocol P2 is the cellular communication protocol.

[0072] At block 204, the hearing protection device 112-1 is communicably coupled, using the communication unit 122, to the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 associated with the proximal user 104-2 via the first communication protocol Pl (e.g., BLE). The proximal hearing protection device 112-2 is communicably coupled to the proximal cellular device 132-2 via the first communication protocol Pl (e.g., Bluetooth ®). The cellular device 132-1 is configured to communicate with the proximal cellular device 132-2 via the second communication protocol P2.

[0073] At block 206, the proximity indicator 150 is calculated by the controller 120. The calculated proximity indicator 150 is associated with the proximal hearing protection device 112- 2. The proximity indicator 150 is indicative of a proximity of the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 relative to the hearing protection device 112-1.

[0074] At block 208, the proximity indicator 150 is compared with the first threshold value 152. At block 210, metadata 140 is exchanged with the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 using the communication unit 122, when the proximity indicator 150 is below the first threshold value 152. Metadata 140 includes at least a unique number U associated with the proximal cellular device 132-2. In some embodiments, metadata 140 is encrypted by the controller 120 before exchanging metadata 140 with the proximal hearing protection device 112-2.

[0075] At block 212, the initiation input C2 is received by the actuator 124 from the user 104-1 of the hearing protection device 112-1.

[0076] At block 214, the ambient sound level 154 is determined for the ambient sound S by the audio input device 118, upon receiving the initiation input C2 from the user 104-1. In some embodiments, metadata 140 further includes at least one of an authentication information, unique numbers, the proximity indicator 150, and the ambient sound level 154.

[0077] At block 216, the controller 120 determines whether the ambient sound level 154 is above the second threshold value 156.

[0078] At block 218, the communication unit 122 transmits the initiation signal SI to the cellular device 132-1 to initiate the proximal telephone call T2 from the cellular device 132-1 to the proximal cellular device 132-2 using the unique number U if the ambient sound level 154 is above the second threshold value 156. In some embodiments, the controller 120 may enable the level dependent function of the ambient sound S if the ambient sound level 154 is below the second threshold value 156.

[0079] In some embodiments, metadata 140 further includes the call reception status 142 of the proximal hearing protection device 112-2. The call reception status 142 is positive R1 or negative R2. In some embodiments, the method 200 may include obtaining the call reception status 142 of the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 from metadata 140 before transmitting the initiation signal S 1 to the cellular device 132- 1. In some embodiments, method 200 may include transmitting the initiation signal SI to the cellular device 132-1 if the call reception status 142 of the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 is positive Rl. In some embodiments, method 200 may include preventing transmission of the initiation signal S 1 to the cellular device 132-1 if the call reception status 142 of the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 is negative R2.

[0080] At block 220, the proximal audio signal A2 is received at the hearing protection device 112-1 from the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 via the proximal telephone call T2 between the cellular device 132-1 and the proximal cellular device 132-2. In some embodiments, method 200 may include transmitting, by the communication unit 122, the initiation alert Bl to the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 via the first communication protocol Pl before the initiation of the proximal telephone call T2.

[0081] In some embodiments, method 200 may include receiving, by the actuator 124, the termination input C3 from the user 104-1 after the initiation of the proximal telephone call T2. In some embodiments, method 200 may include transmitting, by the communication unit 122, the termination signal S3 to the cellular device 132-1 to terminate the proximal telephone call T2 upon receiving the termination input C3 from the user 104-1. In some embodiments, method 200 may include transmitting, by the communication unit 122, the termination alert B2 to the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 via the first communication protocol Pl (e.g., BLE) before the termination of the proximal telephone call T2.

[0082] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, the hearing protection device 112-1 of embodiments herein allows for communication with the proximal hearing protection device 112-2 in a high noise environment. The hearing protection device 112-1 may automatically exchange metadata 140 with the proximal hearing protection device 112-2, thereby enabling access to the unique number U associated with the proximal cellular device 132-2 for initiating the proximal telephone call T2. The user 104-1 of the hearing protection device 112-1 may only need to provide the initiation input C2 to the actuator 124 and the controller 120 of the hearing protection device 112-1 may automatically determine if the proximal telephone call T2 needs to be initiated or to choose level dependent function of the ambient sound S based on the ambient sound level 154 and the second threshold value 156. This may enable seamless and smooth communication with the proximal hearing protection device 112- 2.

[0083] In the present description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. The illustrated embodiments are not intended to be exhaustive of all embodiments according to the invention. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims.

[0084] Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing feature sizes, amounts, and physical properties used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the foregoing specification and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by those skilled in the art utilizing the teachings disclosed herein.

[0085] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” encompass embodiments having plural referents, unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and / or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0086] Spatially related terms, including but not limited to, “proximate,” “distal,” “lower,” “upper,” “beneath,” “below,” “above,” and “on top,” if used herein, are utilized for ease of description to describe spatial relationships of an element(s) to another. Such spatially related terms encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the particular orientations depicted in the figures and described herein. For example, if an object depicted in the figures is turned over or flipped over, portions previously described as below or beneath other elements would then be above or on top of those other elements.

[0087] As used herein, when an element, component, or layer for example is described as forming a “coincident interface” with, or being “on,” “connected to,” “coupled with,” “stacked on” or “in contact with” another element, component, or layer, it can be directly on, directly connected to, directly coupled with, directly stacked on, in direct contact with, or intervening elements, components or layers may be on, connected, coupled or in contact with the particular element, component, or layer, for example. When an element, component, or layer for example is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly connected to,” “directly coupled with,” or “directly in contact with” another element, there are no intervening elements, components, or layers for example.

[0088] Various examples have been described. These and other examples are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A hearing protection device associated with a user, the hearing protection device comprising: an audio input device; an actuator configured to receive an input from the user; a communication unit communicably coupled to a cellular device via a first communication protocol, wherein the hearing protection device is configured to receive an audio signal from the cellular device when the cellular device is in a telephone call via a second communication protocol different from the first communication protocol, wherein the communication unit is configured to communicably couple to a proximal hearing protection device associated with a proximal user via the first communication protocol, wherein the proximal hearing protection device is communicably coupled to a proximal cellular device via the first communication protocol, and wherein the cellular device is configured to communicate with the proximal cellular device via the second communication protocol; and a controller communicably coupled to the actuator, the audio input device, and the communication unit, wherein the controller is configured to: calculate a proximity indicator associated with the proximal hearing protection device, wherein the proximity indicator is indicative of a proximity of the proximal hearing protection device relative to the hearing protection device; compare the proximity indicator with a first threshold value; and exchange, by the communication unit, a metadata with the proximal hearing protection device when the proximity indicator is below the first threshold value, wherein the metadata comprises at least a unique number associated with the proximal cellular device; wherein, upon receiving, by the actuator, an initiation input from the user, the controller is further configured to: determine, by the audio input device, an ambient sound level; determine if the ambient sound level is above a second threshold value; and transmit, by the communication unit, an initiation signal to the cellular device to initiate a proximal telephone call from the cellular device to the proximalcellular device using the unique number if the ambient sound level is above the second threshold value, wherein the hearing protection device receives a proximal audio signal from the proximal hearing protection device via the proximal telephone call between the cellular device and the proximal cellular device.

2. The hearing protection device of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to enable a level dependent function of the ambient sound if the ambient sound level is below the second threshold value.

3. The hearing protection device of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to transmit, by the communication unit, an initiation alert to the proximal hearing protection device via the first communication protocol before the initiation of the proximal telephone call.

4. The hearing protection device of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to: receive, by the actuator, a termination input from the user after the initiation of the proximal telephone call; and transmit, by the communication unit, a termination signal to the cellular device to terminate the proximal telephone call upon receiving the termination input from the user.

5. The hearing protection device of claim 4, wherein the controller is further configured to transmit, by the communication unit, a termination alert to the proximal hearing protection device via the first communication protocol before the termination of the proximal telephone call.

6. The hearing protection device of claim 1, wherein the metadata further comprises at least one of an authentication information, unique numbers, the proximity indicator, and the ambient sound level.

7. The hearing protection device of claim 1, wherein the first communication protocol is Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE).

8. The hearing protection device of claim 1, wherein the second communication protocol is a cellular communication protocol.

9. The hearing protection device of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to encrypt the metadata before exchanging the metadata with the proximal hearing protection device.

10. The hearing protection device of claim 1, wherein the metadata further comprises a call reception status of the proximal hearing protection device, and wherein the call reception status is positive or negative.

11. The hearing protection device of claim 10, wherein the controller is further configured to: obtain the call reception status of the proximal hearing protection device from the metadata before transmitting the initiation signal to the cellular device; transmit the initiation signal to the cellular device if the call reception status of the proximal hearing protection device is positive; and prevent transmission of the initiation signal to the cellular device if the call reception status of the proximal hearing protection device is negative.

12. A hearing protection system comprising: a plurality of hearing protection devices associated with a plurality of users; and a plurality of cellular devices corresponding to the plurality of hearing protection devices, such that each cellular device from the plurality of cellular devices is associated with a corresponding hearing protection device from the plurality of hearing protection devices; wherein each hearing protection device comprises: an audio input device; an actuator configured to receive an input from a corresponding user from the plurality of users; a communication unit communicably coupled to the cellular device associated with the hearing protection device via a first communication protocol, wherein the hearing protection device is configured to receive an audio signal from the cellular device when the cellular device is in a telephone call via a secondcommunication protocol different from the first communication protocol, wherein the communication unit is configured to communicably couple to a proximal hearing protection device from the plurality of hearing protection devices via the first communication protocol, wherein the communication unit of the proximal hearing protection device is communicably coupled to a proximal cellular device from the plurality of cellular devices via the first communication protocol, and wherein the cellular device is configured to communicate with the proximal cellular device via the second communication protocol; and a controller communicably coupled to the actuator, the audio input device, and the communication unit, wherein the controller is configured to: calculate a proximity indicator associated with the proximal hearing protection device, wherein the proximity indicator is indicative of a proximity of the proximal hearing protection device relative to the hearing protection device; compare the proximity indicator with a first threshold value; and exchange, by the communication unit, a metadata with the proximal hearing protection device when the proximity indicator is below the first threshold value, wherein the metadata comprises at least a unique number associated with the proximal cellular device; wherein, upon receiving, by the actuator, an initiation input from the corresponding user, the controller is further configured to: determine, by the audio input device, an ambient sound level of an ambient sound; determine if the ambient sound level is above a second threshold value; and transmit, by the communication unit, an initiation signal to the cellular device to initiate a proximal telephone call from the cellular device to the proximal cellular device using the unique number if the ambient sound level is above the second threshold value, wherein the hearing protection device receives a proximal audio signal from the proximal hearing protection device via the proximal telephone call between the cellular device and the proximal cellular device.

13. The hearing protection system of claim 12, wherein the controller is further configured to enable a level dependent function of the ambient sound if the ambient sound level is below the second threshold value.

14. The hearing protection system of claim 12, wherein the controller is further configured to transmit, by the communication unit, an initiation alert to the proximal hearing protection device via the first communication protocol before the initiation of the proximal telephone call.

15. The hearing protection system of claim 14, wherein, upon receiving the initiation alert, the controller of the proximal hearing protection device is further configured to transmit, by the communication unit, an acceptance signal to the proximal cellular device, such that the proximal cellular device automatically accepts the proximal telephone call initiated by the cellular device.

16. The hearing protection system of claim 12, wherein the controller is further configured to: receive, by the actuator, a termination input from the corresponding user after the initiation of the proximal telephone call; and transmit, by the communication unit, a termination signal to the cellular device to terminate the proximal telephone call upon receiving the termination input from the user.

17. The hearing protection system of claim 16, wherein the controller is further configured to transmit, by the communication unit, a termination alert to the proximal hearing protection device via the first communication protocol before the termination of the proximal telephone call.

18. The hearing protection system of claim 12, wherein the metadata further comprises at least one of an authentication information, unique numbers, the proximity indicator, and the ambient sound level.

19. The hearing protection system of claim 12, wherein the first communication protocol is Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE).

20. The hearing protection system of claim 12, wherein the second communication protocol is a cellular communication protocol.

21. The hearing protection system of claim 12, wherein the controller is further configured to encrypt the metadata before exchanging the metadata with the proximal hearing protection device.

22. The hearing protection system of claim 12, wherein the metadata further comprises a call reception status of the proximal hearing protection device, and wherein the call reception status is positive or negative.

23. The hearing protection system of claim 22, wherein the controller is further configured to: obtain the call reception status of the proximal hearing protection device from the metadata before transmitting the initiation signal to the cellular device; transmit the initiation signal to the cellular device if the call reception status of the proximal hearing protection device is positive; and prevent transmission of the initiation signal to the cellular device if the call reception status of the proximal hearing protection device is negative.

24. A method for use with a hearing protection device having an audio input device, an actuator, a communication unit, and a controller, the method comprising: communicably coupling, by the communication unit, the hearing protection device to a cellular device via a first communication protocol, wherein the hearing protection device is configured to receive an audio signal from the cellular device when the cellular device is in a telephone call via a second communication protocol different from the first communication protocol; communicably coupling, by the communication unit, the hearing protection device to a proximal hearing protection device associated with a proximal user via the first communication protocol, wherein the proximal hearing protection device is communicably coupled to a proximal cellular device via the first communication protocol, and wherein the cellular device is configured to communicate with the proximal cellular device via the second communication protocol;calculating, by the controller, a proximity indicator associated with the proximal hearing protection device, wherein the proximity indicator is indicative of a proximity of the proximal hearing protection device relative to the hearing protection device; comparing the proximity indicator with a first threshold value; exchanging, by the communication unit, a metadata with the proximal hearing protection device when the proximity indicator is below the first threshold value, wherein the metadata comprises at least a unique number associated with the proximal cellular device; receiving, by the actuator, an initiation input from a user of the hearing protection device; determining, by the audio input device, an ambient sound level of an ambient sound upon receiving the initiation input from the user; determining, by the controller, if the ambient sound level is above a second threshold value; transmitting, by the communication unit, an initiation signal to the cellular device to initiate a proximal telephone call from the cellular device to the proximal cellular device using the unique number if the ambient sound level is above the second threshold value; and receiving, at the hearing protection device, a proximal audio signal from the proximal hearing protection device via the proximal telephone call between the cellular device and the proximal cellular device.

25. The method of claim 24, further comprising enabling, by the controller, a level dependent function of the ambient sound if the ambient sound level is below the second threshold value.

26. The method of claim 24, further comprising transmitting, by the communication unit, an initiation alert to the proximal hearing protection device via the first communication protocol before the initiation of the proximal telephone call.

27. The method of claim 24, further comprising: receiving, by the actuator, a termination input from the user after the initiation of the proximal telephone call; andtransmitting, by the communication unit, a termination signal to the cellular device to terminate the proximal telephone call upon receiving the termination input from the user.

28. The method of claim 27, further comprising transmitting, by the communication unit, a termination alert to the proximal hearing protection device via the first communication protocol before the termination of the proximal telephone call.

29. The method of claim 24, wherein the metadata further comprises at least one of an authentication information, unique numbers, the proximity indicator, and the ambient sound level.

30. The method of claim 24, wherein the first communication protocol is Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE).

31. The method of claim 24, wherein the second communication protocol is a cellular communication protocol.

32. The method of claim 24, further comprising encrypting, by the controller, the metadata before exchanging the metadata with the proximal hearing protection device.

33. The method of claim 24, wherein the metadata further comprises a call reception status of the proximal hearing protection device, and wherein the call reception status is positive or negative.

34. The method of claim 33, further comprising: obtaining the call reception status of the proximal hearing protection device from the metadata before transmitting the initiation signal to the cellular device; transmitting the initiation signal to the cellular device if the call reception status of the proximal hearing protection device is positive; and preventing transmission of the initiation signal to the cellular device if the call reception status of the proximal hearing protection device is negative.

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