Edge accessories

Abstract

An ear-shaped attachment should be comfortable when worn for a long time. The present application discloses an ear-shaped interface based on a rim attachment. By separating the upward force of the rim from the separate downward force, a more comfortable wearing experience is achieved. The rim can optionally be pleated. The object is achieved by a rim structure having an outer surface, the outer surface contacts at least a portion of the inner portion of the outer boundary of the concha of the auricle, while the rim does not contact the bottom plate of the concha.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to ear-like structures and, more particularly, to attachment structures for fitting a device to a human auricle. Background Art

[0002] Various accessory devices are known as ear-shaped accessories, such as supra-aural and in-ear solutions.

[0003] One solution is known as the "in-ear" solution, in which the sound-generating device (also known as the hearing element) enters the ear canal. Typically, a housing unit including the hearing element is located inside the concha, the tragus and the anti-tragus, while a funnel-shaped structure directs the sound into the ear canal. Typically, the funnel-shaped structure is provided with a gasket with a flange to block ambient sound. Such devices are typically attached using the ear canal. Although this solution is compact, effectively removes ambient sound and also maintains good audio fidelity, it has the disadvantage of causing discomfort due to the pressure applied on the pressure-sensitive ear canal.

[0004] Another solution is the "on-the-ear" solution, in which the hearing element is held against the ear with the concha. This geometry allows a wide hearing element to lie flat against the concha. Unlike the in-the-ear solution, the on-the-ear solution requires a separate device for holding the hearing element in place above the concha, and several devices known in the art such as head-mounted accessories, headband accessories, and over-the-ear accessories. This solution is simple, but suffers from long-term discomfort due to the pressure exerted on the ear by the holding device. Unless a sound-absorbing pad that completely surrounds the ear is used, there will also be the problem of ambient sound entering the ear, which in turn brings other disadvantages, such as large size.

[0005] A third solution is the "earplug" solution, in which a housing unit including the hearing element is placed inside the concha and is held in place by the tragus and antitragus. In this way, the housing unit also forms a means for holding the hearing element in place. Although compact, the disadvantages are discomfort caused by the pressure exerted on the tragus and antitragus, and also difficulty in excluding ambient sounds. If the pressure on the tragus and antitragus is reduced, the earplug is rather loose and may easily fall off.

[0006] WO / 2002 / 045390 discloses a fourth solution, which relates to earphones having a C-shape, and WO / 2008 / 147215 relates to improved earphones having curves and curvatures. Both WO / 2002 / 045390 and WO / 2008 / 147215 disclose a comfort device for stably attaching to the anti-helix of the ear. WO / 2002 / 045390 discloses an open solution, which leaves the auditory canal open to the surroundings to a certain extent, which provides better comfort than units that block or close the auditory canal. This provides air circulation at the expense of admitting ambient sound.

[0007] This solution works by contacting or engaging the inner surface of the concha below the antihelix. The result is stability in the XY plane or sagittal plane. The disadvantage is that while these devices fit virtually all ears, this can result in a fairly tight fit, especially when supporting a large shell that essentially fills the concha. A good fit to the inner surface of the concha, which is the floor of the concha, is also important.

[0008] For the fifth technical solution, reference should be made to the in-ear speaker disclosed in WO / 2009 / 143055, in which the hearing element is placed in the concha and facing the tragus, perpendicular to the hearing element of the supra-aural technical solution. The problem is the stable placement of the hearing element and the discomfort associated with the edge of the hearing element pressing against the inner wall of the concha when the hearing element is placed in the ear.

[0009] Therefore, a method and system are needed to overcome the above problems. Summary of the invention

[0010] Problems to be solved by the present disclosure

[0011] Therefore, one primary object of the present disclosure is to provide a simple and universal ear interface that is stable, safe and comfortable.

[0012] Means for solving the problem

[0013] According to the present disclosure, said object is achieved by a device for an ear-shaped attachment as defined in the preamble of claim 1 , said device having the features of the characterizing portion of claim 1 .

[0014] Various non-exhaustive embodiments, variations and alternatives of the present disclosure are defined by the dependent claims.

[0015] The present disclosure achieves the above-mentioned objects by a surround structure having an outer surface, the outer surface contacts at least a portion of the inner portion of the outer boundary of the concha of the auricle, while the surround does not contact the floor of the concha.

[0016] A first aspect of the present disclosure discloses an ear-shaped interface, comprising a surrounding edge and a counter-pressure member, wherein the surrounding edge comprises an outer surface, an inner surface opposite to the outer surface, and a peripheral edge, wherein the outer surface further comprises an outer surface contact area, wherein the outer surface contact area is used to engage at least a portion of the inner portion of the outer boundary of the concha of the auricle, and the counter-pressure member is used to contact some portions of the auricle to counteract the force generated by the surrounding edge, wherein when the ear-shaped structure is inserted into the ear, the surrounding edge does not contact the bottom plate of the auricle.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the outer boundary is at least one of the group consisting of the antihelix, the tragus, the anti-tragus and the crus of the helix.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the peripheral edge is pleated.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the ear interface further comprises a frame for attaching the housing to the ear interface.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the counter-pressure member for contacting some parts of the auricle to counteract the force generated by the surrounding edge is at least one counter-pressure member from the group including a counter-pressure member for engaging the concha wall contact area, a counter-pressure member for engaging the helix crus contact area, a counter-pressure member for engaging the cymba concha contact area, and a counter-pressure member for engaging the concha cavity contact area of ​​the auricle.

[0021] In a more preferred embodiment, a counter-pressure member for contacting some portion of the pinna to counteract the forces generated by the surround extends from the frame.

[0022] In a further preferred embodiment, the frame comprises a frame body surrounding a central frame body opening.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, the frame comprises a frame surround interface connecting the surround to the frame, wherein the frame surround interface provides additional flexibility to the surround by at least one selected from the group consisting of a joint and a retractable portion.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the surrounding edge has a concave shape.

[0025] In another preferred embodiment, the peripheral edge has a convex shape.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the counterpressure member engages a portion of the pinna external to the concha.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, the counterpressure member is a collar, wherein the collar contacts an outer portion of the anti-helix along an outer anti-helix contact area, thereby providing a counterforce to forces from the surround.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, the counterpressure member is a slot, wherein an outer portion of the slot contacts an outer portion of the anti-helix along the lateral anti-helix contact area, thereby providing a counterforce to forces from the surround.

[0029] In a more preferred embodiment, the skirt is part of the lower portion of the slot and continues to the upper portion of the slot.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the surround and frame are of unitary construction.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the housing is provided with a counter-pressure member for engaging at least a portion of the concha.

[0032] Effects of the present disclosure

[0033] The present disclosure includes technical advantages over known systems and methods by using a surround attachment that does not contact the concha floor. This allows for greater freedom of design.

[0034] These effects in turn provide several further advantageous effects: (US: The present disclosure provides several further advantageous effects:)

[0035] It uses pressure against the concha walls to balance pressure against the ear canal, or pressure against the ear canal opening, making it more comfortable to wear than traditional in-ear devices while maintaining a proper seal.

[0036] It equalizes the pressure on the ear canal, or pressure on the ear canal opening, which is important when noise cancellation is used.

[0037] It enables attachment to be provided with a smaller device than known devices.

[0038] It simplifies fitting in the ear, regardless of the concha base geometry.

[0039] It enables a larger and heavier housing to be placed into the concha, which has greater capacity to accommodate advanced electronics and sensors without obstruction from the ear interface and while maintaining comfort, and

[0040] It provides a comfortable technical solution when using larger shells. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] The above and other features of the present disclosure are set forth with particularity in the appended claims, and the above and other features of the present disclosure and advantages thereof will become more apparent by considering the following detailed description of [exemplary] embodiments of the present disclosure given with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0042] The present disclosure will be further described below in conjunction with exemplary embodiments, which are schematically shown in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0043] Figure 1A shows the anatomy of the human ear as viewed from the outside;

[0044] Figure 1B An anatomical cross section of a human ear along AA is shown;

[0045] Figure 2A The umbrella-shaped surround structure is shown in a relaxed state;

[0046] Figure 2B Insertion into the ear is shown Figure 2A The surrounding structure;

[0047] Figure 2C Insertion into a smaller ear is shown Figure 2A The surrounding structure;

[0048] Figure 2D A simple conical surround structure is shown inserted into the ear;

[0049] Figure 2E A flared surround structure inserted into the ear is shown;

[0050] Figure 3 An ear unit having a surrounding edge and a counterpressure member is shown;

[0051] Figure 4A A surround structure with a mushroom-shaped housing in a frame with a collar is shown in a relaxed state;

[0052] Figure 4B Insertion into the ear is shown Figure 4A The surrounding structure;

[0053] Figure 5A A surround structure with a slot, a housing in a frame, and a retractable hearing element is shown in a relaxed state;

[0054] Figure 5B Insertion into the ear is shown Figure 5A The surrounding structure;

[0055] Fig. 6A and 6B An ear unit with an adjustable housing for lateral audio projection in two different positions is shown;

[0056] Fig. 7A and 7B An ear unit with a surrounding edge and a fixed nozzle 355 is shown;

[0057] Figure 7C , 7D and 7E show an embodiment of an earplug tip;

[0058] Figure 7FAn embodiment having a downwardly extending portion is shown;

[0059] Fig. 8A and 8B An ear unit is shown having a surround and a nozzle 355 connected by a connector;

[0060] Fig. 9 An ear unit having a peripheral edge divided into tongues by a cutout is shown;

[0061] Fig.10A1 and 10A2 An integrated ear unit is shown with a surround and a body without a frame;

[0062] Fig. 10B and 10C An integrated ear unit having a surround and a body with an audio duct and no frame is shown;

[0063] Fig.11 An ear unit having a full-circle annular rim covering substantially the entire concha is shown;

[0064] Fig. 12A and 12B An integrated ear unit is shown having a raised surround and a body without a frame; and

[0065] Fig.13A and 13B An ambidextrous ear unit is shown having a surround and a body without a frame.

[0066] Reference Mark Description:

[0067] The following reference numbers and symbols refer to the accompanying drawings:

[0068]

[0069]

[0070]

[0071] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0072] The anatomy of the human ear

[0073] refer to Figure 1A , Figure 1A The structure of the human ear, in particular the structure of the outer ear, is depicted. The various features of the outer ear described herein are closely related to various embodiments of ear-worn devices according to the present disclosure.

[0074] Specifically, the external ear 10, also known as the wing of the ear or the pinna, includes a number of important features. Outermost is the helix 11, which runs upward along the periphery of the ear and inward toward the cartilaginous fold of the skull, where it transitions into the crus 12. Inner to the helix is ​​the antihelix 13, which bifurcates in an upward direction into the crus 14, which includes a superior crus 15 and an inferior crus 16 separated by a triangular fossa 17. Below the antihelix is ​​the post-auricular groove 18, and below that the antitragus 22, which is opposite the tragus 21 and is separated from the tragus 21 by the intertragic notch (also known as the intertragic recess) 23. Inner to these parts is the concha 24, which includes a hymena concha 25 and a cavum concha 26 separated by the crus 12.

[0075] It should be noted that the portion of the helix near where the helix transitions to the crus helix forms a wing 11a that covers the front of the triangular fossa and the front of the upper portion of the antihelix. The crus helix extends to about the middle of the concha before transitioning to a crus extension 12a that extends as a ridge to the back of the concha below the antihelix.

[0076] The entrance to the ear canal 30 is directly within the tragus and is partially covered by the tragus. It is very important to realize that the entrance is still part of the cavum concha. The ear canal extends completely from the deepest part of the concha to a distance of about 2.5 cm from the eardrum and about 4 cm from the tragus. The ear canal includes an outer cartilaginous portion of about 8 mm and an inner bony portion of about 16 mm. It should also be noted that it is generally quite uncomfortable to place any foreign object in the ear canal. The ear canal is partially visible from the outside and is Figure 1A Shown in.

[0077] The area directly within and partially covered by the tragus 21 has no official anatomical name. For purposes of this disclosure, it is referred to as the subtragus region 28. The ear canal 30 is located below the subtragus region.

[0078] refer to Figure 1B , viewing the bottom of the concha from the side along the crus 12 of the helix. The bottom of the concha presents as the floor of the cavum concha, which is surrounded by the concha wall that rises from the floor to the antihelix. The antihelix 13 forms a roof structure or overhang that generally covers the concha wall, the antihelix having an inner portion 13a facing the floor that curves around to an outer portion 13b facing away from the floor. Similarly, the tragus and antitragus also include such inner and outer portions. The wall is elastic and will expand and widen if outward pressure is applied. The floor is above and along the skull, thus providing limited flexibility, however the wall is not constrained by the skull in the same way, allowing the wall to have greater flexibility.

[0079] The antihelix, tragus, antitragus, and crus of the helix represent the outer borders of the concha surrounding the ear, unaffected by the concha floor.

[0080] The various aspects of the present disclosure will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present disclosure can be implemented in many different forms and should not be interpreted as being limited to any specific structure or function presented throughout the present disclosure. On the contrary, these aspects are provided to make the present disclosure detailed and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. Based on the teachings of this article, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that, whether implemented independently of any other aspect of the present disclosure or implemented in combination with any other aspect of the present disclosure, the scope of the present disclosure is intended to cover any aspect of the present disclosure disclosed herein. For example, any number of aspects set forth herein can be used to implement a device or practice method. In addition, the scope of the present disclosure is intended to cover such devices or methods that are practiced using other structures and functions, and covers and is not limited to the various aspects recorded in the present disclosure. It should be understood that any aspect of the disclosure disclosed herein can be embodied by one or more elements of the claims.

[0081] Stability of Hearables

[0082] A movable object in space can be described using six degrees of freedom: linear: anterior-posterior, dorsal-ventral, and left-right; rotational: in the sagittal, coronal, and transverse planes.

[0083] For ear-worn or head-worn devices, these axes and planes are defined in terms of anatomical position with reference to the head. For a device to be stably placed in the ear, it is important to limit linear movement relative to the ear, otherwise the device will fall off. Similarly, it is highly preferred to limit rotational movement relative to the head. For use with flashes, display units such as VR devices or cameras in optical devices, this stability is important for the user experience. Moreover, rapid rotational movement of the head can generate forces that pull the device out of the ear.

[0084] For devices with anteriorly extending members, this means that as gravity pulls the member downward, a static rotational force is created in the sagittal plane. This must be counteracted by a rotational stabilizer.

[0085] In this context, the "sagittal plane" is the modified parasagittal plane that passes through the concha and approximately intersects the antihelix cartilage. The Z axis is perpendicular to the plane.

[0086] In the following, an audio conduit refers to a device that transmits sound, whereas a nozzle is the audio conduit seen from the outside and transmits the sound towards the ear canal, where it usually enters the ear canal or the opening of the ear canal.

[0087] Principles forming the basis of this disclosure

[0088] The basic principle of the present disclosure is to understand that a skirt-like structure placed inside the concha is urged toward the center of the concha in a direction substantially perpendicular to the sagittal plane, wherein the skirt-like structure fits along the inner surface of the outer border of the concha without contacting the concha floor. Stability is achieved by applying a counter force by a separate device for contacting several parts of the auricle.

[0089] Figure 2A The umbrella-like surround structure 200 is shown in a relaxed state. The surround 200 includes an outer surface 222 including an outer surface contact area 224 for engaging the inner portion 13a of the anti-helix, an inner surface 226 opposite the outer surface 222, and a surround edge 210.

[0090] In this embodiment, the surround has a concave shape, wherein the outer surface of the surround contacts the inner surface 13a of the antihelix along the contact surface 13c and thus generates a force towards the concha. This is balanced by the edge 210 of the surround pressing against the concha wall to generate an opposing force. This pressure causes the concha wall to expand slightly and provides space for contact between the edge 210 of the surround and the concha wall at the widest position. It should be noted that the contact area 32a along the wall 32 is provided above the concha floor 31, so that for stability, the surround does not contact the concha floor.

[0091] This effect requires some form of flexibility. In one set of embodiments, the flexibility is that of the ear cartilage, typically the antihelix. The concha is made of elastic cartilage that allows the antihelix to bend in-plane to make it wider, or to bend out-of-plane, whereby the antihelix overhang is pulled up or down.

[0092] In a second set of embodiments, the rim itself can be made curved. In one subset of embodiments, the rim includes a slot defining two ends of the rim, such that the ends of the rim facing the slot are pressed together, closing the slot, thereby allowing the rim to be inserted into the concha. In a second subset of embodiments, the rim itself can be deformed so that the rim is expanded less than when in a relaxed state, thereby also allowing the rim to be inserted into the concha.

[0093] By using the flexibility described above, the surround-like structure is inserted into the concha. When the surround is relaxed, the surround expands and locks into the concha of the ear by contacting the inner surface of the antihelix without contacting the floor of the concha. A gentle residual pressure ensures that the surround fits securely in the Z-axis and thus achieves stability in the sagittal plane. A certain rotational stability is ensured by friction. This can be further improved by key features engaging anatomical features, such as the intertragic notch.

[0094] Figure 2B Insertion into the ear is shown Figure 2A The rim 200 is pressed against the inner portion 13a of the antihelix along the contact surface 13c.

[0095] Figure 2C Shown is the insertion of a smaller ear Figure 2A By pressing the edges closer together, the same edges fit into smaller ears, as shown.

[0096] For function, the feature that contacts the inner surface of the concha (i.e., the concha floor 31) is not important. Instead, the surround can engage the anti-helix at its edge, increasing rotational stability and also defining the depth of the surround into the volume of the concha. Thus, the surround is suspended above the inner surface of the concha.

[0097] Best Mode for Carrying Out the Disclosure

[0098] Edge embodiment

[0099] Figure 2A , 2B Embodiments of the device according to the present disclosure shown in 2C, 2D and 2E include a surrounding edge that engages the concha wall to provide back pressure.

[0100] Figure 2D A simple conical rim structure is shown which is inserted into the ear. In this embodiment, the rim has a conical shape, wherein the outer surface of the rim contacts the inner surface 13a of the antihelix along the contact surface and thus generates a force towards the concha. This is balanced by the opposing force generated by the edge 210 of the rim pressing against the concha wall. The pressure causes the concha wall to expand slightly and provides space for contact between the edge 210 of the rim and the concha wall at the widest position. It should be noted that the contact area 32a along the wall 32 is provided above the concha floor 31, so that for stability, the rim does not contact the concha floor.

[0101] Figure 2E The flared surround structure inserted into the ear is shown. Figure 2CThe effect shown is similar, but with some minor differences. Firstly, the rim in this embodiment has a convex shape, where the outer surface of the rim contacts the inner surface of the antihelix along the contact surface and thus generates a force towards the concha. The contact area is generally further away from the concha wall and is also a thinner contact area. This is balanced by the opposing force generated by the edge 210 of the rim pressing against the concha wall. The pressure causes the concha wall to expand slightly and provides space for contact between the edge of the rim and the concha wall at the widest position. It should be noted that the contact area along the wall is located above the floor of the concha, so for stability, the rim does not contact the floor of the concha. Because the shape is convex, it is easier to apply stronger forces to the concha wall without being restricted by the antihelix. Under sufficiently strong forces, the edge of the rim will be sufficiently restricted by the expansion of the concha wall so that it remains stable without relying on the antihelix.

[0102] When comparing the geometries of the above-described surround embodiments, the main difference is how the surround contacts and acts on the anti-helix. The umbrella-like structure contacts the inner surface of the anti-helix close to the concha wall, and the contact areas against the wall and the anti-helix are close together and can merge. In this geometry, the anti-helix is ​​lifted only to a small or insignificant degree by the back pressure.

[0103] Instead, the horn structure contacts the inner surface of the anti-helix away from the concha wall, and the contact areas against the wall and the anti-helix are far apart and unlikely to merge.

[0104] For best results, the stiffness of the border material should exceed the stiffness of the concha wall. This will ensure that the concha wall is fully extended to provide a counter force for stability. Therefore, a hard, non-flexible material also works.

[0105] To connect with the payload, Figure 2C , 2D 2E is attached to a frame 250 having a frame body 252 surrounding a central frame body opening 254. The attachment is achieved through a frame surround interface 256, which optionally provides flexibility through a connector or a pinch. The frame is connected to a payload, such as a housing 300 with an audio device for music, mobile phone connections, etc. Although the frame body opening 254 is shown as circular, it is clear that it can be more flexible in shape and can also be semi-circular, elongated, rectangular, and more.

[0106] The frame is attached to the housing 300 at the housing frame interface 306. When placed in the ear, the interface is typically located at the end of the housing near the concha. The interface 306 can also be located at the far end of the housing, such as for embodiments with raised surrounds, or if it is desired that the ear unit extend as little as possible outside the concha. Thus, the frame allows the interface to contact either end of the housing.

[0107] The case is removably attached to the frame so that the customer can select the most comfortable or secure surround for the product in the case.

[0108] The frame is preferably made of a material that is strong enough to handle multiple attachments and detachments. The frame can be made of a hard material. Resilient materials can also be used for certain types of detachable accessories.

[0109] Back Pressure Example

[0110] Figure 3 An embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, including an example of a surround and a plurality of counter-pressure members. The inward force is generated by the surround contacting the inner surface of the anti-helix. The counter-pressure members extend from the frame.

[0111] The outward counter-balancing force is generated by at least one counter-pressure member 500. The counter-pressure member is preferably a component 504 extending from the frame 250 to the helix crus contact area 12b. There are other alternatives:

[0112] A counter-pressure member 502 for engaging the concha wall contact area 32a;

[0113] A counter-pressure member 504 for engaging the helix crus contact area 12b;

[0114] A counter-pressure member 506 for engaging the cymba concha contact area 25a;

[0115] • A back pressure member 508 for engaging the cavum concha contact area 26a.

[0116] All these can be used alone or in free combination.Also other counterpressure members can be used, as long as they produce the force opposite to the force produced from the surrounding edge.

[0117] Typically, the counterpressure member 504 for engaging the helix crus contact area 12b is relatively short, and in some embodiments, an area without protrusions on the frame is sufficient.

[0118] Typically, the surround is a continuous body having an upper end 212 for fitting under the upper portion of the antihelix, typically under the inferior crus 16 of the antihelix, and optionally extending under the wing 11a. Typically, the surround also includes a lower end 214 for fitting under the lower portion of the antihelix, and optionally includes an extended lower end 216 for fitting under the anti-tragus or extending under the tragus.

[0119] Payload

[0120] Typically, the frame is the contact interface between the surround and the payload, such as audio equipment. With this separation of functions, each customer can be provided with a device and surround selected to achieve the most comfortable fit while adapting to the use. When used during exercise, a tighter fit may be required.

[0121] Fig. 6A and 6B An ear unit with an adjustable shell for lateral audio projection is shown. Fig. 6A The housing is shown in a higher position with the lower end being retractable. The housing is provided with a sliding connection to the frame so that the housing can be raised and lowered, and preferably also rotated. In use, the housing is held fixed by friction or by a locking mechanism. Figure 6B The housing is shown in a lowered position, with the lower end entering and possibly contacting the concha floor.

[0122] The shell includes an electroacoustic element 360 in a cavity that connects the electroacoustic element to an opening 352 disposed at one side of the shell via an audio conduit 354, which projects sound more directly toward the opening of the ear canal compared to embodiments in which sound is emitted toward the concha wall.

[0123] In use, the user inserts the ear unit into the ear, lowers and rotates the housing until the acoustic user experience is optimal.

[0124] Fig. 7A An ear unit is shown having a surround 200 and a fixed nozzle 355 extending from a housing 300 containing a hearing element 350. The audio conduit opening 356 of the nozzle 355 may be arranged to be positioned at the entrance to the ear canal and may optionally be provided with a Fig. 10C The gasket 370 and / or flange 372 shown, typically use a connecting ring. If at least one of the nozzle, audio conduit opening, gasket and flange contacts some portion of the concha (including the portion of the concha that is the entrance to the ear canal), this portion can also effectively become a counter-pressure member. This can also be freely combined with the counter-pressure member discussed above, thereby reducing the pressure or even eliminating the pressure felt by the relevant portion of these nozzles 355.

[0125] Figure 7B Shows Fig. 7A A variation of an embodiment of the invention is provided in which the ear unit has a rim 200 and a fixed audio duct nozzle 355 extending from a housing 300 comprising a hearing element 350 .

[0126] The nozzle 355 may have a fixed length determined during design that is appropriate for a particular use or intended earbud tip to be fitted to the nozzle 355, and the depth of the opening into the ear canal or the depth of the ear canal itself as intended by the design. In an alternative embodiment, the nozzle 355 may be user adjustable.

[0127] Figure 7C , 7D 7E show embodiments of earplug tips suitable for fitting onto nozzle 355. Preferably, these earplug tips are removably connected so that the user can select the nozzle that best fits the ear and intended use.

[0128] Figure 7C It is a nozzle designed to be positioned in the sub-tragus area 28 directly covered by the tragus. The nozzle provides a comfortable fit without having to contact the ear canal or the opening of the ear canal. This embodiment can provide some ambient sound into the ear and can be beneficial for mobile phone use.

[0129] Fig.7D The spherical earbud tip is a truncated spherical earbud tip that provides a tight fit against the ear canal opening, substantially eliminating ambient sound.

[0130] Fig. 7E The ® is a frusto-conical earbud tip that provides a snug fit against the ear canal opening, reducing ambient sound.

[0131] Fig. 8A and 8B An ear unit is shown with a surround and a nozzle 355 connected by a joint 358. The joint 358 can be arranged above the hearing element opening 352 of the housing 300, connecting the hearing element opening to the nozzle 355, so that the user can freely place the audio duct opening 356 of the audio duct. Fig. 8A In the case, the connector is located close to the housing, while in Figure 8B In the embodiment of the present invention, a joint is provided in the middle portion of the nozzle 355. This joint is a constriction of the elastic material for the nozzle 355, allowing sound to pass through when the joint is bent. The nozzle 355 can be user replaceable, so that the user can choose the joint that best fits the ear. Other types of joints, such as a ball and socket joint, can also be used.

[0132] Alternative Embodiments

[0133] Many variations of the above scheme can be envisioned. For example, the surround can be divided into multiple components, each component engaging a different part of the anti-helix. Although two components can work, three components will provide better stability.

[0134] Similarly, the collar and slot can be split into multiple parts, where again two components will work, but three components will be more stable.

[0135] The backpressure member may also extend from the rim or even portions of the housing or nozzle 355 .

[0136] The back pressure member 500 may also contact the cymba concha or cavum concha. Likewise, the nozzle 355, the audio conduit opening, the gasket, or the flange extending from the housing may be used as a back pressure member. It is apparent that, for example, combinations and multiple back pressure components may be used to unload the pressure applied by the nozzle 355 and related components.

[0137] A counter pressure member may be used to engage a portion of the auricle outside the concha, such as the antihelix, tragus, antitragus and the outer portion of the crus of the helix, which represents the outer border of the concha surrounding the concha and is not affected by the concha floor. This is preferably achieved using a ring or slot.

[0138] Figure 4A The surround structure with the collar 272 is shown in a relaxed state, with the mushroom-shaped housing located in a frame with a retractable hearing element in. In this embodiment, the collar contacts the outer portion of the antihelix 13b along the outer antihelix contact area 13d, thereby providing a reaction force to the forces from the surround. Figure 4B Insertion into the ear is shown Figure 4A In summary, the anti-helix 13 is clamped between the surrounding edge 200 and the collar 272.

[0139] Preferably, the surround is connected to the housing via a frame. Preferably, the collar is also connected to the frame, although variations are envisioned. For example, the collar may be part of the housing itself, in which case the housing and collar may be made as a one-piece structure. The collar may be made of a resilient material, but using a hard material also works well because the user can rely on the surround for elasticity and a comfortable fit. The distance between the collar and the surround may be made adjustable, for example using a spiral track in the frame or body so that the collar can be rotated to vary the distance. Obviously, many different techniques for adjusting the distance are envisioned.

[0140] Preferably, the loop follows the entire anti-helix, but variations are possible ranging from an entire auricular portion surrounding the concha forming the outer border of the concha to a pinky portion covering a small portion of the concha border.

[0141] More generally, any contact surface of the auricle against the outside of the concha may be used.

[0142] Figure 5A The surround structure with the slot 280 is shown in a relaxed state, with a housing in the frame, with a retractable hearing element 350 and a hearing element opening 352. In this embodiment, the slot surrounds the anti-helix, contacts the inner portion 13a of the anti-helix along the inner anti-helix contact area 13c, and contacts the outer portion 13b of the anti-helix along the outer anti-helix contact area 13d, and thus provides a reaction force to the forces from the surround, thereby ensuring stable placement in the ear. Figure 5B Insertion into the ear is shown Figure 5A In this embodiment, the edge is part of the lower portion of the slot and preferably continues to the upper portion 282 of the slot, and the slot provides a Figure 4A and 4B The embodiment of the collar and surround shown in FIG. 2 is a tighter fit. The technical effect is similar to the embodiment with the collar 272 in which the antihelix 13 is clamped between the surfaces of the slot.

[0143] Preferably, the slot is along the entire anti-helix, but variations are possible ranging from an entire auricular portion surrounding the concha forming the outer border of the concha to a small finger-shaped portion covering a small portion of the concha border.

[0144] More generally, any contact surface of the auricle against the outside of the concha may be used.

[0145] Preferably, the surround is connected to the housing via the frame. Preferably, the slot is provided as an extension of the surround. In this embodiment, the surround and the slot are an integral structure made of the same material. The elasticity of the slot allows a comfortable fit to the antihelix.

[0146] Figure 7F An embodiment is shown with a downwardly extending component 400. This can be a battery compartment or an interface for a wire for an application that is connected to a separate device via a wire. Preferably, the component 400 extends downwardly through the intertragus notch 23, thereby providing further rotational stability in the sagittal plane. The component 400 is suitable for use with an antenna and a microphone, preferably at the end of the component. At the same time, it makes it possible to provide intelligent and wireless functionality and to operate on the Internet without external components.

[0147] In alternative embodiments, component 400 may extend in other directions, for example, for antenna use, the antenna may extend substantially outward.

[0148] Fig. 9An ear unit is shown having a skirt divided into tongues 234 by a cut 232. Thus, in some embodiments, some portions of the skirt may extend below the tragus without contacting the anti-tragus. If the frame skirt interface 256 is flexible, then the tongues do not have to be flexible. The cuts may separate the tongues in a normal configuration, or the cuts may be cut obliquely through the skirt, thereby forming a pleated skirt that can be folded in an overlapping manner.

[0149] The use of tongues makes it easy to provide each tongue with a different thickness, width and depth. The depth of the cutout can also be easily varied.

[0150] The use of tongues also makes it easy to customize the cutouts for passing components such as audio conduits. Fig. 9 Shown in.

[0151] The surrounds without tongues and cutouts can also have different thicknesses, widths and depths.

[0152] Also, the skirt may be one continuous sheet that is folded and pleated in a more conventional manner.For the present disclosure, the term pleated is used for this embodiment as well as the above described embodiments with cutouts.

[0153] Fig.10A1 An embodiment is shown in which the surround 200, frame 250 and housing 300 are actually a single integral structure. The purpose of the frame is to adapt an expensive housing to one of several less expensive surrounds. In some cases, such as when the housing itself is not expensive, it is more economical to omit the frame and place the surround on the housing to form an integral structure.

[0154] Fig.10A2 Shows Fig.10A1 The embodiment shown is a cross section along line AA.

[0155] Preferably, it also includes a nozzle 355, which is also part of the integral structure. More preferably, the earplug tip 370 at the end of the audio conduit is also part of the integral structure. This can have many benefits, such as providing fewer parts and parts with interfaces that do not accumulate moisture or dirt.

[0156] Fig. 10B A variation of the embodiment of FIG. 10A is shown, in which the ear unit has a surround 200 and a fixed nozzle 355 extending from a housing 300 comprising a hearing element 350 .

[0157] Fig. 10CAnother variation of the embodiment of FIG. 10A is shown, in which the ear unit has a rim 200 and a fixed earplug tip or gasket 370, which surrounds the audio conduit opening 356 of the nozzle 355, which extends from the housing 300 including the hearing element 350. The gasket excludes many ambient sounds. To further exclude ambient sounds, the nozzle 355 is provided with a flange 372 between the gasket and the housing. The flange can be combined with another flange and / or other earplug tips when it is desired to exclude ambient sounds.

[0158] The gasket and nozzle may be used to close the opening to the ear canal, but may also optionally be used to close the ear canal itself.

[0159] Fig.11 An ear unit is shown having a full circle annular rim that covers substantially the entire concha. The rim starts at a front location near the helix, goes along the entire underside of the anti-helix, continues along the underside of the anti-tragus, passes through the intertragic notch, and continues along the underside of the tragus. The rim rises from a location under the tragus and reaches the crus of the helix. In one embodiment, the rim rises in a spiral-like manner, covers the crus of the helix, and continues until it covers the beginning of the rim. In this embodiment, the portion covering the crus of the helix is ​​actually in the shape of a loop. This portion is preferably made of an elastic material. This embodiment also actually closes the concha acoustically.

[0160] Fig. 12A and 12B The one-piece ear unit is shown from two different angles, and has a rim with a protrusion 213 and a body without a frame. The upper end 212 is provided with a protrusion 213 located below the wing 11a, and the lower end 214 is located below the antihelix and can extend to the antitragus or tragus.

[0161] Fig.13A and 13B An ambidextrous ear unit having a skirt and a body without a frame is shown from two different angles. It has been found that the contact area joined by the skirt is substantially symmetrical and that this allows the formation of an ambidextrous skirt for use as an ear-shaped interface. The upper end 212 is located above the anti-helix and the lower end 214 is located below the anti-helix and may extend to the anti-tragus or tragus. The ends 212, 214 are preferably tapered to provide a comfortable fit. To achieve an ambidextrous effect, this device is mirror-symmetrical.

[0162] The nozzle 355 may be provided with an extendable portion, such as a telescoping joint, to accommodate differences in the depth at which the user wishes to place the audio conduit opening into the opening of the ear canal. This may be combined with the audio conduit joint 358.

[0163] In most embodiments, the electroacoustic element is disposed in a housing to provide sufficient space for the acoustic system. In an alternative embodiment, the electroacoustic element is disposed on the top of an arm that looks similar to the nozzle 355 disclosed above. This arm may also advantageously be provided with a joint and / or a retractable joint.

[0164] Typically, the surround extends radially from the frame, but in alternative embodiments, some portion of the surround may extend tangentially or at an angle between tangential and radial. This may provide a forwardly extending portion, which may be in the form of a protrusion 213, for example for engaging a portion under the fin 11a. In another embodiment, there is a scalloped cutout so that the frame fits closely to the tragus, while the surround tapers towards the tragus so as not to obstruct a portion near the ear canal opening. Typically, the surround has a rounded geometry to improve comfort.

[0165] To increase the elasticity of the surround, the surround may be provided with a pivot hinge 228. This may be a mechanical pivot hinge, but is preferably a contraction area that yields to bending forces more easily than the surrounding area.

[0166] Fig. 10A shows a one-piece structure with a retracted pivot. The pivot is located close to the housing. For structures with a frame, the pivot is preferably located close to the frame surround interface 256. The pivot is particularly advantageous for one-piece structures and surrounds with tongues.

[0167] Some ear units include various types of sensors, such as physiological parameters (such as blood oxygen and pulse), and sensors indicating that the device is inserted into the ear. Practice has shown that the present disclosure lends itself well to such measurements. In some embodiments, the surround uses smart materials, such as materials that change resistance when deformed, to detect that the device is inserted into the ear. This can be used for the entire surround or just one or more tongues. This avoids more complex technical solutions currently used, such as optical detectors that require optical windows and thus complicate the use of an integrated structure. Back-pressure components can also be used for detectors, such as physiological detectors. Because the surround is compact and allows the body to not extend beyond the concha, the present disclosure is very suitable for sensor systems that are worn continuously for long periods of time and while sleeping. The stability of the surround enables its use on non-contact sensors, such as infrared sensors, to measure body temperature using an opening to the ear canal.

[0168] Industrial Applicability

[0169] The technical solution according to the present disclosure can be used for an ear-shaped interface.

Claims

1. An ear-shaped structure comprising The surrounding edge (200) includes an outer surface (222), the outer surface (222) further comprising an outer surface contact region (224) for engaging at least a portion of an inner portion (13a) of an outer boundary of a concha (24) of an auricle (10); an inner surface (226) opposite the outer surface (222); and a peripheral edge (210); as well as a counter-pressure member for contacting some portion of the auricle (10) to counteract the forces generated by the peripheral rim, and / or wherein the peripheral rim edge (210) is adapted to press against the concha wall; When the ear-shaped structure is inserted into the ear, the surrounding edge does not contact the bottom plate (31) of the auricle.

2. The ear-shaped structure according to claim 1, wherein: The outer boundary is at least one of the antihelix (13), the tragus (21), the antitragus (22) and the crus helix (12).

3. The ear-shaped structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The peripheral edge is pleated.

4. The ear-shaped structure according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a frame (250) for attaching the housing (300) to the ear-shaped interface (100).

5. The ear-shaped structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The counter-pressure member is at least one of the following counter-pressure members (500): a counter-pressure member (502) for engaging the concha wall contact area (32a), a counter-pressure member (504) for engaging the helix crus contact area (12b), a counter-pressure member (506) for engaging the cymba concha contact area (25a), and a counter-pressure member (508) for engaging the concha cavity contact area (26a) of the auricle.

6. The ear-shaped structure according to claim 4, wherein: The back pressure member extends from the frame.

7. The ear-shaped structure according to claim 4, wherein: The frame (250) includes a frame body (252) surrounding a central frame body opening (254).

8. The ear-shaped structure according to claim 4, wherein: The frame (250) includes a frame surround interface (256) connecting the surround to the frame, wherein the frame surround interface (256) provides additional flexibility to the surround by including a pivot hinge (228).

9. The ear-shaped structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The outer surface (222) of the surrounding edge has a concave shape.

10. The ear-shaped structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The outer surface (222) of the surrounding edge has a convex shape.

11. The ear-shaped structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The counterpressure member engages a portion of the auricle (10) external to the concha.

12. The ear-shaped structure according to claim 11, wherein: The counter-pressure member is a collar (272), The collar contacts an outer portion (13b) of the antihelix (13) along an outer antihelix contact region (13d) to provide a reaction force to the force generated by the surround.

13. The ear-shaped structure according to claim 11, wherein: The counter-pressure member is a slot (280), The outer portion (282) of the slot contacts the outer portion (13b) of the antihelix (13) along an lateral antihelix contact area (13d) to provide a reaction force to forces from the surround.

14. The ear-shaped structure according to claim 13, wherein: The skirt (200) is part of a lower portion of the slot (280) and continues to an upper portion of the slot, wherein the upper portion of the slot is the outer portion (282) of the slot.

15. The ear-shaped structure according to claim 4, wherein: The surrounding edge and the frame have an integral structure.

16. The ear-like structure according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a shell, wherein the shell is provided with a counter-pressure member for engaging at least a portion of the concha.

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