Vibrator mounting structure

Abstract

The present invention provides a vibrator installation structure, which includes an elastic component formed of an elastic material, wherein the elastic component is arranged between a frame of a listening device and a vibrator that accommodates an electromechanical converter that converts an electrical signal into a mechanical vibration, and the vibrator is installed on the listening device in such a way that the lower surface of the vibrator is arranged at a position opposite to an ear cartilage when the listening device is worn on the ear, and a first mechanical impedance of the elastic component between the vibrator and the frame is set to be twice smaller than a second mechanical impedance of the ear cartilage applied to the vibrator at a frequency of 200 Hz to 1000 Hz.

Description

[0001] This application is based on and claims the priority of Japanese Patent Application No. 2019-159004 filed with the Japan Patent Office on August 30, 2019. This application incorporates the entire contents of that application by reference. Technical Field

[0002] One embodiment of the present invention relates to a mounting structure for mounting a transducer on a listening device. Background Art

[0003] In recent years, as a vibrator having a structure in which an electromechanical converter that converts an electrical signal into a mechanical vibration is housed in a shell, a small and light-weight structure has been proposed (for example, refer to Japanese Patent Gazette No. 5653543). Such a miniaturized and lightweight vibrator is used, for example, in a device mounted on the ear. As an example of such a device, there can be cited, for example, listening equipment such as wireless headphones and headphones that can be connected to a portable phone. Furthermore, by wearing the listening equipment equipped with the above-mentioned vibrator on the user's ear, the vibrator is configured so that the vibrator is in contact with the skin near the ear cartilage, so that sound can be transmitted via the cartilage conduction path. Summary of the invention

[0004] The mounting structure of the vibrator includes an elastic component formed of an elastic material, which is arranged between a frame of the listening device and a vibrator that accommodates an electromechanical converter that converts an electrical signal into a mechanical vibration. The vibrator is installed on the listening device in such a way that the lower surface of the vibrator is arranged at a position opposite to the ear cartilage when the listening device is worn on the ear, and the first mechanical impedance of the elastic component between the vibrator and the shell is set to be smaller than twice the second mechanical impedance of the ear cartilage applied to the vibrator at a frequency of 200 Hz to 1000 Hz. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] Figure 1 A mechanical model showing one embodiment of the present invention.

[0006] Figure 2 Shown with Figure 1 The equivalent circuit corresponding to the mechanical model.

[0007] Figure 3 Schematically shows Figure 1 An example of a device being worn in a person's ear.

[0008] Figure 4 It is a perspective view of the mounting structure of the first embodiment.

[0009] Figure 5 It is a partial cross-sectional view of the mounting structure of the first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 6 It is a partial cross-sectional view of the mounting structure of the second embodiment.

[0011] Figure 7 It is a top view of the mounting structure of the second embodiment.

[0012] Figure 8 This is related to a modification of the second embodiment. Figure 6 Same partial cutaway view.

[0013] Fig. 9 It is a partial cross-sectional view of the mounting structure of the third embodiment.

[0014] Fig.10 It is a top view of the mounting structure of the third embodiment.

[0015] Fig.11 It is a perspective view of the mounting structure of the fourth embodiment.

[0016] Fig.12 It is a partial cross-sectional view of the mounting structure of the fourth embodiment.

[0017] Fig.13 This is related to a modification of the fourth embodiment. Fig.12 Same partial cutaway view. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] In the detailed description below, for the purpose of illustration, in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the invention, many specific details are set forth. However, it is apparent that one or more embodiments may be implemented without these specific details. In other cases, in order to simplify the drawings, well-known structures and devices are schematically shown.

[0019] In recent years, if the miniaturization and lightness of the vibrator are to be achieved, the influence of the mass of the shell that houses the vibrator and the mass of the device (listening equipment, etc.) on which the vibrator is installed becomes a problem. That is, assuming that the mass of the vibrator is relatively larger than the mass of the device, the vibrator is less likely to be affected by the device. In contrast, the smaller the mass of the vibrator is due to its lightness, the more strongly the vibrator is affected by the device. Specifically, in a state where the vibrator is simply connected to the device, the excitation force generated by the vibrator with a small mass is used to vibrate the device. Therefore, for example, it is difficult to effectively propagate vibrations that should be transmitted to the ear cartilage, etc. As a result, when a vibrator with a relatively small mass is driven in a state installed in a device, there is a concern that the volume and vibration level will be reduced compared to the case where the vibrator is driven alone.

[0020] One object of the present invention is to provide a mounting structure for a vibrator that can transmit vibration to ear cartilage with good transmission efficiency even when a vibrator with a small mass is mounted on a listening device.

[0021] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, a mounting structure of a vibrator in one embodiment of the present invention (this mounting structure) comprises an elastic component (22) formed of an elastic material, wherein the elastic component is arranged between a frame (21) of a listening device and a vibrator (20) which houses an electromechanical converter which converts an electrical signal into a mechanical vibration, wherein the vibrator is mounted on the listening device in such a manner that the lower surface of the vibrator is arranged at a position opposite to an ear cartilage when the listening device is worn on the ear, and a first mechanical impedance (r2-js2 / ω) of the elastic component between the vibrator and the frame is set to be smaller than twice a second mechanical impedance (zc) of the ear cartilage applied to the vibrator at a frequency of 200 Hz to 1000 Hz.

[0022] According to the mounting structure, when the hearing aid is worn on the ear, vibration is transmitted to the ear cartilage from the vibrator located at a position opposite to the ear cartilage. At this time, since the first mechanical impedance of the elastic member between the frame of the hearing aid and the vibrator is sufficiently small, even when the mass of the vibrator is smaller than that of the hearing aid, the energy of the vibration can be suppressed from being transmitted to the hearing aid. As a result, the vibration from the vibrator can be effectively transmitted to the ear cartilage.

[0023] In the present installation structure, the elastic component may also constitute a pair of elastic components (22, 23) including a second elastic component (23) disposed on the upper surface of the vibrator opposite to the lower surface and applying a pressing force to the vibrator. In this case, the pair of elastic components clamps and holds the vibrator. In this structure, the vibrator protrudes slightly from the shell side of the listening device to the ear cartilage side due to the pressing force of the pair of elastic components. Therefore, it is easy to transmit the vibration of the vibrator to the ear cartilage.

[0024] Alternatively, the mounting structure further comprises: a convex portion (24) provided on the lower surface of the vibrator and protruding toward the ear cartilage side; and a concave portion (22c) provided on the elastic component and having the same shape as the convex portion. Alternatively, the vibrator is held by the elastic component in a state where the convex portion and the concave portion are engaged. Thus, the vibrator can be stably held via the concave portion of the elastic component. Furthermore, the convex portion of the vibrator can be made to inevitably protrude toward the ear cartilage side. In this case, the concave portion of the elastic component can be formed so that its central axis is the same as the central axis of the cylindrical component serving as the convex portion, and has a diameter substantially the same as that of the cylindrical component.

[0025] Alternatively, the mounting structure further comprises: a soft porous body (25) disposed on the upper surface of the vibrator opposite to the lower surface; and a holding portion (21d) disposed on the frame body and holding the porous body. In this case, the first mechanical impedance is a composite mechanical impedance of the elastic member and the porous body. As the soft porous body, for example, a sponge is used. Thus, by applying a pressing force to the porous body via the holding portion, the vibrator can be stably held. Furthermore, the mass applied to the vibrator can be suppressed.

[0026] Alternatively, the mounting structure may further include an inner peripheral portion (22f) disposed on the elastic component and covering the side surface of the vibrator, or the vibrator may be held by the elastic component in a state of contact with the inner peripheral portion. Thus, the side surface of the vibrator is stably held by the inner peripheral portion of the elastic component. Furthermore, the number of overall components may be reduced, and the structure may be simplified.

[0027] As described above, according to the present installation structure, the first mechanical impedance of the elastic component between the vibrator and the frame of the listening device is set to be twice smaller than the second mechanical impedance of the ear cartilage applied to the vibrator. Therefore, even when a vibrator with a small mass is installed in the listening device, the efficiency of the vibration transmission from the vibrator to the ear cartilage can be improved. In addition, the present installation structure is a structure in which the vibrator is not directly fixed to the frame of the listening device. Therefore, unnecessary vibration applied to the frame of the listening device can be suppressed.

[0028] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Among them, the embodiment described below is an example of a method of applying the technology of the present invention. The technology of the present invention is not limited by the content of this embodiment. Hereinafter, a method of applying the technology of the present invention to a vibrator installed in a hearing device and transmitting vibration (sound) using cartilage conduction is described.

[0029] Figure 1 A mechanical model for studying the characteristics required for a vibrator according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 1 , a vibrator 10 and a device 11 such as a listening device on which the vibrator 10 is mounted are shown. The vibrator 10 includes an internal vibrator body 10a and a vibrator housing 10b covering the vibrator body 10a. Figure 1 The ear cartilage is shown below. The ear cartilage (skin omitted) contacts one end of the vibrator 10 at the contact portion Ca. Figure 1 The head of a person is shown above . The head contacts one end of the device 11 at the contact portion Cb.

[0030] exist Figure 1In the mechanical model, the vibrator body 10a, the vibrator housing 10b, and the device 11 have masses m1, m2, and m3, respectively. A force F is applied between the vibrator body 10a and the vibrator housing 10b. The above-mentioned contact parts Ca, Cb, between the vibrator body 10a and the vibrator housing 10b, and between the vibrator housing 10b and the device 11 can all be modeled using springs and dampers. Here, the contact part Ca, between the vibrator body 10a and the vibrator housing 10b, between the vibrator housing 10b and the device 11, and the contact part Cb have stiffness s0, s1, s2, and s3 of the spring, and have mechanical resistance r0, r1, r2, and r3 of the damper, respectively.

[0031] Here, the vibration displacements of the masses m1, m2, and m3 are respectively x1, x2, and x3. The vibration displacement of the ear cartilage is x0. The mechanical impedance of the ear cartilage applied to the vibrator 10 is zc. In this case, Figure 1 For the mechanical model, the following equations of motion (1) to (4) hold. Here, '(symbol) represents time differential. For example, x1' represents velocity, and x1" represents acceleration.

[0032]

Number 1

[0033] m1x1″=F-r1(x1′-x2′)--s1(x1-x2) (1)

[0034] m2x2″=-F-r1(x2′-x1′)--s1(x2-x1)-r2(x2′-x3′)-s2(x2--x3)-r0(x2′-x0′)-s0(x2-x0) (2)

[0035] m3x3″=-r2(x3′--x2′)-s2(x3-x2)-r3x3′-s3x3 (3)

[0036] z c x0′=-r0(x0′-x2′)-s0(x0-x2) (4)

[0037] From the above equations (1) to (4), a circuit equivalent to the mechanical model can be derived. Figure 2 Shown with Figure 1 The mechanical model corresponds to the equivalent circuit. In addition, the speeds x0', x1', x2' and x3' in equations (1) to (4) correspond to the currents of the equivalent circuit. Figure 1 and Figure 2By comparison, the force F corresponds to the electromotive force of the equivalent circuit. The masses m1 to m3 correspond to the inductance of the equivalent circuit. The stiffness s0 to s3 corresponds to the capacitance of the equivalent circuit (the value is the inverse of the stiffness value). The mechanical resistance r0 to r3 corresponds to the resistance of the equivalent circuit. The mechanical impedance zc corresponds to the impedance of the equivalent circuit.

[0038] Figure 1 The goal of the mechanical model is to apply as much vibration as possible to the ear cartilage. In this regard, the vibrator 10 is in contact with the ear cartilage at the contact portion Ca (r0, s0), so by maximizing Figure 2 The vibration applied to the ear cartilage increases. On the other hand, since the mass m3 of the device 11 is large, Figure 2 In the embodiment, the mechanical impedance r2-js2 / ω between the vibrator 10 and the device 11 is preferably set small. If the mechanical impedance r2-js2 / ω is large, the vibration x2' becomes very small. On the other hand, the mechanical impedance r0-js0 / ω of the contact portion Ca (r0, s0) is preferably set large.

[0039] Here, when verifying the mechanical impedance of the ear cartilage, it was confirmed that the impedance was approximately 5 (Ns / m) in the frequency range of 200 Hz to 1000 Hz. In addition, it is also assumed that the actual mechanical impedance value of the ear cartilage varies due to individual differences, etc. In the installation structure of the vibrator 10 of the present embodiment, in order to achieve the above-mentioned effect, an elastic component is sandwiched between the vibrator 10 and the device 11. The elastic component has a mechanical impedance smaller than the mechanical impedance of the ear cartilage corresponding to the mechanical impedance zc (equivalent to Figure 2 The mechanical impedance value decreases inversely proportional to the frequency. Therefore, even if the mechanical impedance value of the stiffness of the elastic component is 10Ns / m at a frequency of 100Hz, the mechanical impedance of the elastic component only needs to be approximately 10Ns / m or less.

[0040] Figure 3 Schematically shows Figure 1 An example of a state where the device 11 is actually worn on a person's ear. Figure 3 As shown, the device 11 has a shape that matches the shape of the ear. The device 11 worn on the ear is held in a state of being sandwiched between the auricle and the head. At this time, the lower surface of the vibrator 10 mounted on the device 11 is arranged at a position opposite to the ear cartilage through the skin of the ear. Therefore, when the vibrator 10 is driven, the vibration of the vibrator 10 is transmitted through the ear cartilage. In addition, Figure 3 The state of wearing on the ear shown can also be applied to the mounting structures of the first to fourth embodiments described in detail below.

[0041] [First embodiment]

[0042] Below, use Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 The first embodiment of the present invention is described. The mounting structure of the first embodiment includes: a vibrator 20; a frame 21 of a listening device to which the vibrator 20 is mounted; an elastic member 22 (first elastic member) disposed between the vibrator 20 and the frame 21; and an elastic member 23 (second elastic member) disposed on the upper portion of the vibrator 20. Figure 4 It is a stereogram. Figure 5 It is a partial cross-sectional view. Figure 5 The partial cross-sectional view includes Figure 4 The side of the vibrator 20 and other components, Figure 4 The cross-sectional structure is approximately the center position of the Y direction. Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 In the figure, for convenience of explanation, arrows are used to indicate the mutually orthogonal X direction, Y direction, and Z direction. Figure 6 In the following drawings, the X direction, the Y direction, and the Z direction have the same meaning.

[0043] The vibrator 20 has a structure in which an electromechanical converter that converts an electrical signal into vibration is accommodated. The upper surface of the vibrator 20 in the Z direction is set as the upper surface, and the lower surface of the vibrator 20 in the Z direction is set as the lower surface. The electromechanical converter constituting the main body of the vibrator 20 includes, for example, a yoke, a coil, a magnet, an armature, and an electrical terminal, which are not shown. The frame 21 is, for example, a frame of a listening device such as headphones to which the vibrator 20 is mounted. The entire listening device including the frame 21 is actually as shown in FIG. Figure 3 The structure shown has an upward extension in the Z direction. Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 In the figure, only the bottom surface portion of the entire housing of the listening device is shown as the housing 21, and the illustration of other structures in the housing is omitted.

[0044] The elastic member 22 is made of an elastic material having a predetermined elastic force and has a rectangular plate shape. The central portion 22a of the elastic member 22 in the X direction is arranged on the lower surface of the vibrator 20. The two end portions 22b of the elastic member 22 on both sides in the X direction are fixed to the upper surface of the frame 21. The central portion 22a of the elastic member 22 corresponds to Figure 1The contact portion Ca is formed at the contact portion Ca. This portion abuts against the skin near the ear cartilage of a person. That is, the vibration of the vibrator 20 is transmitted to the ear cartilage via the elastic member 22. An opening portion 21a is formed in the frame 21. A pair of protrusions 21b that slightly protrude in the Z direction are formed on both sides of the X direction in the frame 21. Furthermore, a pair of slit portions 21c that are adjacent to both sides of the pair of protrusions 21b along the X direction are formed in the frame 21. The opening portion 21a is formed in a region that surrounds the vibrator 20 when viewed from the Z direction. Furthermore, the elastic member 22 has the following structure, namely: the central portion 22a overlaps with the region of the opening portion 21a, and the portion from the central portion 22a to the two end portions 22b is bent upward through the above-mentioned pair of slit portions 21c.

[0045] The elastic member 23 is made of an elastic material having a predetermined elastic force, and has a rectangular plate shape. A central portion 23a in the center of the elastic member 23 in the X direction is disposed on the upper surface of the vibrator 20. Both end portions 23b on both sides of the elastic member 23 in the X direction are fixed to the upper surface of both end portions 22b of the elastic member 22 or to the frame 21. Therefore, the elastic member 22 and the elastic member 23 (a pair of elastic members) have a structure for clamping the vibrator 20 from the top and bottom along the Z direction. The elastic member 23 extends from the central portion 23a to both end portions 23b, and its cross section is inclined. The elastic member 23 presses the vibrator 20 downward in the Z direction by its tension. Therefore, the pressing force of the elastic member 23 acts in such a way that the lower side of the vibrator 20 and the central portion 22a of the elastic member 22 slightly protrude downward in the Z direction of the frame 21 (outside the listening device) (in Figure 5 Therefore, the vibration of the vibrator 20 is easily transmitted to the ear cartilage.

[0046] In the first embodiment, a mechanical model and an equivalent circuit ( Figure 1 as well as Figure 2 ) is described in detail, it has the following characteristics, namely: the composite mechanical impedance (hereinafter referred to as "the first mechanical impedance") of the elastic component 22 arranged between the vibrator 20 and the frame 21, and the elastic component 23 arranged on the upper surface of the vibrator 20 is set to be twice smaller than the mechanical impedance of the ear cartilage applied to the vibrator 20 (hereinafter referred to as "the second mechanical impedance") at a frequency of 200 Hz to 1000 Hz. The first mechanical impedance depends on parameters such as the size, thickness and elastic modulus of the elastic components 22 and 23. Therefore, it is preferred to adjust the value of the mechanical impedance to an appropriate value by appropriately setting the above parameters. In addition, the adjustment of the first mechanical impedance and its effect will be described in detail later.

[0047] There are various methods for fixing the two end portions 22b of the elastic member 22 and the two end portions 23b of the elastic member 23 to the frame 21. As such methods, for example, a method such as bonding or welding, a method of passing a pin provided on the frame 21 through a hole opened in the elastic member 22 and the elastic member 23, or a combination of these methods can be adopted. In addition, when fixing to the frame 21, it is preferable to apply a certain degree of tension to the elastic member 23. However, it is not preferable to apply unnecessary tension to the elastic member 22.

[0048] Here, regarding the elastic component 22 and the elastic component 23, the adjustment method of the above-mentioned first mechanical impedance is described. First, in relation to the size of the elastic component 22, the larger the area (length) and the thinner the thickness in the Z direction, the smaller the first mechanical impedance. In addition, the greater the elastic modulus of the elastic component 22, the greater the first mechanical impedance. Therefore, in order to reduce the first mechanical impedance, it is sufficient to increase the area (length) of the elastic component 22, reduce the thickness, and reduce the elastic modulus. In addition, in Figure 4 as well as Figure 5 In the example of , the thickness of the elastic member 22 is restricted by strength and the like. Therefore, in order to reduce the first mechanical impedance, it is preferable to ensure the length of the opening 21a overlapping the elastic member 22 in the X direction to a certain extent. The same is true for the elastic member 23. In the first embodiment, the composite mechanical impedance of the elastic member 22 and the elastic member 23 becomes the first mechanical impedance. Examples of elastic materials constituting the elastic member 22 and the elastic member 23 include low-hardness rubber, thermoplastic elastomer, and gel having a Shore A hardness of 40 to 50 or less.

[0049] As described above, by adopting the mounting structure of the first embodiment, even when the mass of the vibrator 20 is relatively smaller than the mass of the hearing device, the effect of improving the propagation efficiency of the vibration from the vibrator 20 to the ear cartilage can be obtained. That is, in the mounting structure of the first embodiment, the first mechanical impedance synthesized by the elastic member 22 sandwiched between the vibrator 20 and the frame 21 of the hearing device and the elastic member 23 arranged on the upper surface of the vibrator 20 is set to be smaller than twice the second mechanical impedance of the ear cartilage applied to the vibrator 20. Therefore, when using Figure 1 as well as Figure 2As described above, the vibration energy transmitted to the hearing device can be suppressed. As a result, the vibration energy transmitted to the ear cartilage can be fully increased. In addition, the mounting structure of the first embodiment is a structure in which the vibrator 20 is not directly fixed to the frame 21 of the hearing device. Therefore, the effect of reducing unnecessary vibration applied to the frame 21 of the hearing device can be obtained. Furthermore, the vibrator 20 can be brought into good contact with the skin near the ear cartilage. Furthermore, a waterproof effect based on the elastic component 22 and the frame 21 of the hearing device can also be obtained. In addition, the above basic effects can be obtained not only in the first embodiment, but also in the second to fourth embodiments described below.

[0050] [Second embodiment]

[0051] Below, use Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 The second embodiment of the present invention is described. The mounting structure of the second embodiment includes a cylindrical member 24 connected to the lower surface of the vibrator 20 in addition to the vibrator 20, the frame 21 and the elastic member 22. Figure 6 is with Figure 5 The same partial cross-sectional view, Figure 7 It is a top view observed from above in the Z direction. In the second embodiment, the structure of the vibrator 20 is the same as that of the first embodiment. The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the structure of the frame 21 and the elastic component 22 is different from that of the first embodiment, and that the elastic component 23 is not provided but a cylindrical component 24 is provided. The cylindrical component 24 is an example of a convex portion protruding toward the ear cartilage side. In addition, the cylindrical component 24 connected to the vibrator 20 can be made separately from the vibrator 20 and joined to the vibrator 20. Alternatively, the cylindrical component 24 can be formed as a whole with the vibrator 20.

[0052] like Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 1 , when viewed from the Z direction, the outer shapes of the frame 21 and the elastic member 22 are both circular. With respect to the same center point, the diameter of the elastic member 22 is smaller than the diameter of the frame 21. In addition, the frame 21 is formed with an opening 21a ( Figure 6 ). The diameter of the upper portion of the opening 21a is consistent with the diameter of the elastic member 22. The lower portion of the opening 21a has a diameter slightly smaller than that of the elastic member 22. Figure 6As shown, a cylindrical portion 22c is formed in the center of the elastic member 22. The elastic member 22 has an outer peripheral portion 22d in a ring shape around the cylindrical portion 22c. The cylindrical portion 22c is an example of a recessed portion that matches the shape of the cylindrical member 24, which is a convex portion provided on the elastic member 22. The cylindrical portion 22c is formed so that its central axis is the same as the central axis of the cylindrical member 24 and has a diameter substantially the same as that of the cylindrical member 24. Therefore, in this structure, the outer edge of the outer peripheral portion 22d of the elastic member 22 is held near the step of the opening 21a of the frame 21. In the second embodiment, as a fixing method for fixing the elastic member 22 to the frame 21, as in the first embodiment, a method using bonding or welding, a method using a pin, or a combination of these methods can be applied.

[0053] On the other hand, Figure 7 In the figure, the cylindrical member 24 indicated by the dotted line overlapping the vibrator 20 is formed into a cylindrical shape having a diameter smaller than the overall diameter of the elastic member 22 relative to the same center point when viewed from above in the Z direction. The inside of the cylindrical member 24 is hollow for the purpose of achieving light weight. In addition, the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 22c of the elastic member 22 has a shape that fits with the cylindrical member 24. That is, in this structure, the cylindrical member 24 is covered by the cylindrical portion 22c of the elastic member 22. The vibrator 20 is held by the elastic member 22 in a state where the cylindrical portion 22c and the cylindrical member 24 fit together.

[0054] In the mounting structure of the second embodiment, the cylindrical member 24 connected to the vibrator 20 contacts the skin near the ear cartilage via the cylindrical portion 22c of the elastic member 22. Therefore, compared with the first embodiment, the vibrator 20 can be positioned so that a narrower area faces the ear cartilage. In addition, instead of pressing the vibrator 20 with the elastic member 23 as in the first embodiment, the cylindrical member 24 can be held together with the vibrator 20 from the outer peripheral side by the side of the cylindrical portion 22c of the elastic member 22.

[0055] In the second embodiment, the first mechanical impedance associated with the elastic component 22 is set to be smaller than twice the second mechanical impedance associated with the ear cartilage, which is also the same as the first embodiment. However, the elastic component 22 of the second embodiment has a different structure from the elastic component 22 of the first embodiment. Therefore, in the elastic component 22 of the second embodiment, parameters such as area and thickness are adjusted differently from those of the first embodiment. In addition, in the second embodiment, the basic effect obtained by setting the first mechanical impedance to be smaller than twice the second mechanical impedance is the same as the first embodiment, so the description is omitted. In addition, in the structure of the second embodiment, the cylindrical component 24 and the cylindrical portion 22c of the elastic component 22 are directed toward the contact portion Ca ( Figure 1) precisely protrudes. Therefore, the pressing force of the cylindrical portion 22c may also cause irritation to the skin of the ear. Therefore, in the second embodiment, it is required to consider the structural design of the force affecting the skin of the ear when the hearing device is worn on the ear.

[0056] In the second embodiment, the shape of the cylindrical member 24, which is the convex portion, is not limited to a cylindrical shape. In addition, the shape of the cylindrical portion 22c, which is the concave portion, of the elastic member 22 is not limited to a cylindrical shape. That is, as long as the convex portion connected to the lower surface of the vibrator 20 and the concave portion of the elastic member 22 can fit each other, the convex portion and the concave portion can be formed to have various cross-sectional shapes.

[0057] Next, Figure 8 A modification example of the second embodiment is shown. Figure 6 In this modification, the main changes are Figure 6 The structure of the elastic member 22 in FIG. Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , the elastic member 22 of this modified example has a substantially S-shaped cross-sectional shape. In this structure, the shape near the outer edge of the elastic member 22 is consistent with the shape near the opening 21a of the frame 21. In this portion, the elastic member 22 is held by the frame 21 directly below. In addition, the elastic member 22 has a structure near the inner edge that surrounds and holds the side surface of the cylindrical member 24.

[0058] By adopting Figure 8 The structure of the modified example can increase the cross-sectional path length of the elastic member 22 from the vibrator 20 to the frame 21, and can increase the actual area of ​​the elastic member 22. As a result, it is possible to achieve a structure that is conducive to reducing the first mechanical impedance without increasing the overall size of the elastic member 22. In this case, Figure 6 In contrast, when the same first mechanical impedance is set, for example, the thickness of the elastic member 22 can be set larger by an amount corresponding to an increase in the cross-sectional path length of the elastic member 22. Therefore, a stronger structure can be realized.

[0059] [Third Embodiment]

[0060] Below, refer to Fig. 9 as well as Fig.10 The third embodiment of the present invention is described. The mounting structure of the third embodiment includes a holding portion 21d and a sponge 25 in addition to the vibrator 20, the frame 21, and the elastic member 22. The holding portion 21d is provided in the frame 21 and is disposed on the upper part of the vibrator 20. The sponge 25 is a soft porous body disposed between the vibrator 20 and the holding portion 21d. The holding portion 21d holds the sponge 25. Regarding the mounting structure of the third embodiment, Fig. 9 is with Figure 5 The same partial cross-sectional view, Fig.10 This is a plan view viewed from above in the Z direction. In the third embodiment, the structure of the vibrator 20 is the same as that of the first and second embodiments. In the third embodiment, the structures of the frame 21 and the elastic member 22 are different from those of the first and second embodiments.

[0061] The frame 21 is formed with a step portion 21e. The step portion 21e slightly protrudes upward within the range surrounding the opening 21a. A pair of holding portions 21d are formed on the step portion 21e and are opposed to each other in the X direction at a predetermined height in the Z direction. The pair of holding portions 21d are formed with a pair of side wall portions of the YZ plane adjacent to both ends of the opening 21a in the X direction. Furthermore, the pair of holding portions 21d are formed with a pair of upper wall portions of the XY plane partially opposed to the vibrator 20 below by bending the uppermost portion of the side wall. In addition, a sponge 25 is arranged in the space directly below the holding portion 21d. The sponge 25 is arranged as a porous body having elasticity in a state where a certain degree of pressing force is applied in all directions and is slightly deformed. Therefore, the sponge 25 can stably hold the vibrator 20 directly below. In addition, the sponge 25 is lightweight, so the mass applied to the vibrator 20 can be reduced. In addition, in the present embodiment, a sponge is used as a component arranged between the vibrator 20 and the holding portion 21d. In this regard, the member is not limited to sponge as long as it is lightweight and can stably hold the vibrator.

[0062] like Fig. 9 As shown, the elastic member 22 is a flat plate within the range of the opening 21a. In addition, the two ends of the elastic member 22 in the X direction are bent upward and fit into the groove portion just below the step portion 21e of the frame 21. In this state, the elastic member 22 is fixed to the frame 21. As a method for fixing the elastic member 22 to the frame 21, in addition to the method of using bonding or welding, the method of using pins, or a combination of these methods, as in the first and second embodiments, a method of fixing the elastic member 22 to the frame 21 by embedding a frame 26 corresponding to the shape of the groove portion around the groove portion as a whole can also be applied. In the third embodiment, the first mechanical impedance synthesized by the elastic member 22 and the sponge 25 is set to be less than twice the second mechanical impedance related to the ear cartilage, which is the same as in the first and second embodiments. However, in the third embodiment, there is a difference in the overall structure relative to the first and second embodiments. Therefore, in the elastic member 22 of the third embodiment, different adjustments are required with respect to parameters such as area and thickness from those in the first and second embodiments. In the third embodiment, the basic effect obtained by setting the first mechanical impedance to be smaller than twice the second mechanical impedance is the same as that of the first embodiment, and thus the description thereof will be omitted.

[0063] [Fourth embodiment]

[0064] Below, refer to Fig.11 as well as Fig.12 The fourth embodiment of the present invention is described. The mounting structure of the fourth embodiment includes a vibrator 20, a frame 21, and an elastic member 22, and does not require any other components. Therefore, the number of components can be small. In the fourth embodiment, the structure of the elastic member 22 is particularly characteristic. Regarding the mounting structure of the fourth embodiment, Fig.11 is with Figure 4 The same stereogram, Fig.12 is with Figure 5 The same partial cross-sectional view. In the fourth embodiment, the structure of the vibrator 20 is the same as that of the first to third embodiments. The fourth embodiment is different from the other embodiments in that both the upper surface 20a and the lower surface 20b of the vibrator 20 are exposed.

[0065] The elastic member 22 is formed with an inner peripheral portion 22f. When viewed from the Z direction, the inner peripheral portion 22f is provided with a region for arranging the vibrator 20, and the inner peripheral portion 22f entirely covers the side surface of the vibrator 20. Fig.12 As shown, the elastic member 22 is formed in a T-shaped cross section. The elastic member 22 includes the above-mentioned inner peripheral portion 22f extending in the XZ plane and the YZ plane, and the outer peripheral portion 22g extending in the XY plane. The vibrator 20 is stably held on the elastic member 22 in a state where the four side surfaces of the vibrator 20 are in contact with the inner peripheral portion 22f of the elastic member 22. In addition, the outer peripheral portion 22g of the elastic member 22 is formed to have a size larger than the opening 21a in the center of the frame 21. The outer edge of the outer peripheral portion 22g is fixed to the upper surface of the frame 21. As a method for fixing the elastic member 22 to the frame 21, as in the first to third embodiments, a method using bonding or welding, a method using pins, or a combination of these methods can be applied.

[0066] In the fourth embodiment, the first mechanical impedance associated with the elastic component 22 is set to be twice smaller than the second mechanical impedance associated with the ear cartilage, which is also the same as the first to third embodiments. However, in the mounting structure of the fourth embodiment, the lower surface 20b of the vibrator 20 is in direct contact with the skin near the ear cartilage. Therefore, it is preferable to adjust the first mechanical impedance according to this influence. In addition, in the fourth embodiment, the basic effect obtained by setting the first mechanical impedance to be twice smaller than the second mechanical impedance is the same as the first embodiment, so the description is omitted. In addition, in order to form the elastic component 22 with a T-shaped cross-section, it is sufficient to use a mold having the same cross-sectional shape.

[0067] Next, Fig.13 A modification of the mounting structure of the fourth embodiment is shown. Fig.12In this modification, the main changes are Fig.12 The structure of the elastic member 22 in FIG. Fig.13 As shown, the elastic member 22 of this modified example has Fig.12 The inner circumference 22f shown in the figure extends upward and covers the entire upper surface 20a of the vibrator 20. Fig.13 The structure of the modified example is Fig.12 In contrast, the area of ​​the vibrator 20 that is in contact with the elastic member 22 increases. Therefore, the vibrator 20 can be held more stably.

[0068] The technical content of the present invention has been specifically described above based on the above-mentioned embodiments. The installation structure of the vibrator 20 of the present invention is not limited to the structure disclosed in the above-mentioned embodiments, and various changes can be implemented without departing from the scope of the main purpose. In addition, regarding the material, shape and fixing method of the elastic member 22, as long as they have the basic characteristics described in the above-mentioned embodiments and can obtain the same effect, various methods can be widely applied. In addition, the part that the elastic member 22 or the vibrator 20 contacts is not limited to Figure 3 The outer side of the auricle shown may also be the inner side of the auricle or other parts.

[0069] In addition, the mounting structure of the vibrator of the present embodiment may be the following mounting structure of the first vibrator. The mounting structure of the first vibrator is characterized in that, in the mounting structure of the vibrator in which the vibrator housing an electromechanical converter that converts an electrical signal into a mechanical vibration is mounted on a hearing device, an elastic member formed of an elastic material is arranged between the frame of the hearing device and the vibrator, the vibrator is arranged at a position where the lower surface of the vibrator faces the ear cartilage when the hearing device is worn on the ear, and the first mechanical impedance of the elastic member between the vibrator and the frame is set to be less than twice the second mechanical impedance of the ear cartilage applied to the vibrator at a frequency of 200 Hz to 1000 Hz.

[0070] The detailed description has been given for the purpose of example and illustration. In light of the above teachings, many variations and changes are possible. The detailed description is not exhaustive or intended to limit the subject matter described herein. Although the subject matter has been described in words with specific structural features and / or method processes, it should be understood that the subject matter defined in the claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or specific processes described. More specifically, the specific features and specific processes are described as examples of implementing the claims.

Claims

1. A vibrator mounting structure, wherein: The vibrator mounting structure includes an elastic member formed of an elastic material, the elastic member being arranged between a housing of the hearing aid and the vibrator housing an electromechanical converter that converts an electrical signal into mechanical vibration. The vibrator is attached to the hearing aid so that the lower surface of the vibrator is arranged at a position facing the ear cartilage when the hearing aid is worn on the ear. The first mechanical impedance of the elastic member between the vibrator and the frame is set to be smaller than twice the second mechanical impedance of the ear cartilage applied to the vibrator at a frequency of 200 Hz to 1000 Hz. The elastic member constitutes a pair of elastic members including a second elastic member that is disposed on an upper surface of the vibrator that is opposite to the lower surface and applies a pressing force to the vibrator, and the pair of elastic members sandwich and hold the vibrator.

2. The vibrator mounting structure according to claim 1, wherein: The vibrator installation structure also includes: a convex portion, provided on the lower surface of the vibrator and protruding toward the ear cartilage side; and The concave portion is provided on the elastic component and has the same shape as the convex portion. The vibrator is held by the elastic member in a state in which the convex portion is engaged with the concave portion.

3. The vibrator mounting structure according to claim 2, wherein: The convex part is a cylindrical part connected to the vibrator, The recessed portion is formed so that its central axis is identical to that of the cylindrical member and has substantially the same diameter as that of the cylindrical member.

4. The vibrator mounting structure according to claim 3, wherein: The elastic member has a substantially S-shaped cross-sectional shape surrounding the cylindrical member.

5. The vibrator mounting structure according to claim 1, wherein: The vibrator installation structure also includes: A soft porous body is arranged on the upper surface of the vibrator opposite to the lower surface; as well as a holding portion, provided on the frame body, holding the porous body, The first mechanical impedance is a combined mechanical impedance of the elastic member and the porous body.

6. The vibrator mounting structure according to claim 1, wherein: The vibrator mounting structure further includes an inner peripheral portion, which is provided on the elastic member and covers the side surface of the vibrator. The vibrator is held by the elastic member in a state of being in contact with the inner peripheral portion.

7. A vibrator mounting structure, wherein: The vibrator mounting structure includes an elastic member formed of an elastic material, the elastic member being arranged between a housing of the hearing aid and the vibrator housing an electromechanical converter that converts an electrical signal into mechanical vibration. The vibrator is attached to the hearing aid so that the lower surface of the vibrator is arranged at a position facing the ear cartilage when the hearing aid is worn on the ear. The first mechanical impedance of the elastic member between the vibrator and the frame is set to be smaller than twice the second mechanical impedance of the ear cartilage applied to the vibrator at a frequency of 200 Hz to 1000 Hz. The vibrator installation structure also includes: a convex portion, provided on the lower surface of the vibrator and protruding toward the ear cartilage side; and The concave portion is provided on the elastic component and has the same shape as the convex portion. The vibrator is held by the elastic member in a state where the convex portion is engaged with the concave portion. The convex part is a cylindrical part connected to the vibrator, The recessed portion is formed so that its central axis is identical to that of the cylindrical member and has substantially the same diameter as that of the cylindrical member.

8. The vibrator mounting structure according to claim 7, wherein: The elastic member has a substantially S-shaped cross-sectional shape surrounding the cylindrical member.

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