Hearing Protection Calibration Adapter Set

Abstract

The present invention relates to a calibration device and a method for manufacturing the same. The calibration device for a hearing earphone configured to at least partially protrude into an ear canal of a user comprises a calibration base. The calibration base comprises a calibration insert. An air chamber is defined between the calibration base and the calibration insert. The calibration device further comprises at least one earphone receiving mechanism defined on the calibration insert. The at least one earphone receiving mechanism is configured to form a sealed connection between a given earphone and the air chamber for calibration. The earphone receiving mechanism is configured to at least partially receive a given earphone. A corresponding manufacturing method is also included.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Example embodiments relate generally to calibration of hearing protection headphones and, more particularly, to a portable calibration adapter device for hearing calibration. Background Art

[0002] Hearing devices with noise monitoring functions for industrial applications often require periodic calibration to ensure the longevity and accuracy of the hearing devices. Applicants have identified a number of deficiencies and problems associated with current hearing devices. Through applied effort, ingenuity and innovation, the methods and apparatus of the present disclosure have solved many of these identified problems. Summary of the invention

[0003] In order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the present disclosure, a simplified overview is presented below. This overview is not an extensive review and is neither intended to identify key or important elements nor to delineate the scope of these elements. Its purpose is to present some concepts of the described features in a simplified form as a prelude to a more detailed description presented later.

[0004] In an example embodiment, a calibration device for a hearing earphone is provided. The hearing earphone is configured to at least partially protrude into an ear canal of a user. The calibration device includes a calibration base, the calibration base including a calibration insert. An air chamber is defined between the calibration base and the calibration insert. The calibration device also includes at least one earphone receiving mechanism defined on the calibration insert. The at least one earphone receiving mechanism is configured to form a sealed connection between a given earphone and the air chamber for calibration. The earphone receiving mechanism is configured to at least partially receive a given earphone.

[0005] In some embodiments, the calibration device further comprises a calibration tube receiver configured to operably couple the air chamber to the calibrator system. The calibration system provides calibration to a given earphone held in the at least one earphone receiving mechanism. In some embodiments, each of the at least one earphone receiving mechanism comprises one or more microphone seals configured to engage with a given earphone so that an airtight seal is achieved between the microphone seal and the given earphone microphone. In some embodiments, each earphone receiving mechanism comprises a tensioning member. The tensioning member is configured to hold the earphone in the earphone receiving mechanism during calibration. In some embodiments, the tensioning member is spring loaded. In some embodiments, the calibration device further comprises an ejector mechanism. The ejector mechanism is configured to allow the earphone to be ejected from the calibration insert.

[0006] In some embodiments, the earphone receiving mechanism includes a stationary block and a tensioning member. In such embodiments, the tensioning member is spring loaded so that the earphone is held in place between the stationary block and the tensioning member during operation. In some embodiments, the stationary block includes a microphone seal. The microphone seal is configured to seal one of the microphones of a given earphone when the given earphone is positioned between the stationary block and the tensioning member. In some embodiments, an internal microphone seal is positioned between the stationary block and the tensioning member on the calibration device. In such embodiments, the internal microphone is configured to seal another microphone of the earphone when the given earphone is positioned between the stationary block and the tensioning member.

[0007] In some embodiments, the at least one earphone receiving mechanism includes a first earphone receiving mechanism and a second earphone receiving mechanism. In such an embodiment, the first earphone receiving mechanism is configured to receive a right earphone, and the second earphone receiving mechanism is configured to receive a left earphone. In some embodiments, the calibration device also includes a calibration tube, which is configured to be removably attached to the tube receiver at a first end and to be attached to the calibrator system at a second end opposite to the first end. In some embodiments, the calibration device also includes a cover. The cover is configured to be removably connected to the calibration base at the locking end of the calibration base, and to be operably connected to the calibration base at the connecting end opposite to the locking end, and the cover is configured to move between an open position and a closed position. In some embodiments, the cover includes one or more calibration tube hooks, which are configured to keep the calibration tube in place when the calibration tube is not in use.

[0008] In another example embodiment, a method of manufacturing a calibration device for a hearing earphone configured to at least partially protrude into an ear canal of a user is provided. The method includes providing a calibration base including a calibration insert. An air chamber is defined between the calibration base and the calibration insert. The method also includes providing at least one earphone receiving mechanism defined on the calibration insert. The at least one earphone receiving mechanism is configured to form a sealed connection between a given earphone and the air chamber for calibration. The earphone receiving mechanism is configured to at least partially receive a given earphone.

[0009] In some embodiments, the method further comprises providing a calibration tube receiver configured to operably couple the air chamber to the calibrator system. In such embodiments, the calibration system provides calibration to a given earphone held in the at least one earphone receiving mechanism. In some embodiments, each of the at least one earphone receiving mechanism comprises one or more microphone seals configured to engage with a given earphone so that an airtight seal is achieved between the microphone seal and the given earphone microphone. In some embodiments, each earphone receiving mechanism comprises a tensioning member. The tensioning member is configured to hold the earphone in the earphone receiving mechanism during calibration. In some embodiments, the tensioning member is spring loaded.

[0010] In some embodiments, the method further includes providing an ejector mechanism. In such embodiments, the ejector mechanism is configured to allow the earphone to be ejected from the calibration insert. In some embodiments, the earphone receiving mechanism includes a stationary block and a tensioning member. In such embodiments, the tensioning member is spring loaded so that the earphone is held in place between the stationary block and the tensioning member during operation. In some embodiments, the stationary block includes a microphone seal. The microphone seal is configured to seal one of the microphones of a given earphone when the given earphone is positioned between the stationary block and the tensioning member. In some embodiments, an internal microphone seal is positioned between the stationary block and the tensioning member on the calibration device. In such embodiments, the internal microphone is configured to seal another microphone of the earphone when the given earphone is positioned between the stationary block and the tensioning member.

[0011] In some embodiments, the at least one earphone receiving mechanism includes a first earphone receiving mechanism and a second earphone receiving mechanism. In such an embodiment, the first earphone receiving mechanism is configured to receive a right earphone, and the second earphone receiving mechanism is configured to receive a left earphone. In some embodiments, the method also includes providing a calibration tube, which is configured to be removably attached to a tube receiver at a first end and to be attached to a calibrator system at a second end opposite to the first end. In some embodiments, the method also includes operably connecting a cover to the calibration base. The cover is configured to be removably connected to the calibration base at a locking end of the calibration base, and to be operably connected to the calibration base at a connecting end opposite to the locking end, and the cover is configured to move between an open position and a closed position. In some embodiments, the cover includes one or more calibration tube hooks, which are configured to keep the calibration tube in place when the calibration tube is not in use.

[0012] The above overview is provided only to summarize some example embodiments, to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the present disclosure. Therefore, it will be appreciated that the above embodiments are merely examples and should not be construed as narrowing the scope or spirit of the present disclosure in any way. It will be appreciated that in addition to those embodiments summarized here, the scope of the present disclosure also encompasses many potential embodiments, some of which will be further described below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Having thus described certain example embodiments of the present disclosure in general terms, reference will hereinafter be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in which:

[0014] Figure 1A is an external view of a calibration device in a closed position according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 1B is an external view of a calibration device in an open position according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 2A is a calibration device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the cover is in an open position;

[0017] Figure 2B According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 2A A calibration device, wherein the earphone is positioned within the earphone receiving mechanism;

[0018] Figures 3A-3D are various views of an example headset for use in a calibration apparatus according to the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 4A and 4B illustrates various example microphone seal locations within an earphone receiving mechanism according to example embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 5A is another example embodiment of a calibration pedestal according to the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 5B is a bottom view of a calibration insert according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Figure 5C and Figure 5D is a schematic diagram of the operation of an ejector button according to the present disclosure; and

[0023] Figure 6 A calibration tube hook defined on a cover is illustrated according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] Some embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some but not all embodiments are shown. Indeed, the various embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements.

[0025] The components illustrated in the various figures represent components that may or may not be present in the various embodiments of the present disclosure described herein, so that an embodiment may include fewer or more components than those shown in the various figures without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Some components may be omitted from one or more figures, or shown in dashed lines, for visibility of the components below.

[0026] Many hearing devices used in industrial applications measure sound using internal and / or external microphones that require calibration. While initial calibration may be completed during production of the hearing device, periodic calibration may be useful and / or necessary to maintain operation of the hearing device. Hearing devices used in industrial applications, such as high noise applications, require a certain degree of accuracy in order to provide adequate operational functionality. In some examples and in order to calibrate the hearing device, it is necessary to maintain an airtight seal between each internal and external microphone and the calibration device itself. The various embodiments discussed herein allow for a portable calibration device with an extended service life due to the configurations discussed herein. In some examples, the embodiments discussed herein allow for the use of a spring loaded tensioning member to provide additional sealing capabilities beyond conventional seals. Additionally or alternatively, various example embodiments of the portable calibration device allow for a compact design, which in some examples allows for easy storage and field calibration after production without the need for a complex system.

[0027] Figure 1A1 is an external view of a calibration device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure when the calibration device is closed. In various embodiments, the calibration device 10 can be portable and configured to be connected to a calibrator system. In various embodiments, the calibrator system can be a sound calibrator. In various embodiments, the calibration system can be a sound source (e.g., a laboratory standard sound source can be used for calibration). In various embodiments, the calibration system can be configured to operate under harsh environmental conditions. For example, the calibration system can be a piston sounder (e.g., a piston sounder can operate according to the principle of four reciprocating pistons actuated by a precision machined cam with a sinusoidal profile). In various embodiments, the calibrator system can be an external system configured to provide air to a microphone to calibrate the headset using an airtight seal provided by the calibration device 10 discussed herein. For example, the calibrator system can be a sound calibrator configured to generate a specific sound signal (e.g., a sinusoidal sound signal of 250 Hz or 1000 Hz at 98 dB or 114 dB).

[0028] like Figure 1A As shown, the calibration device 10 can have a calibration base 100 and a calibration cover 105. In various embodiments, the calibration cover 105 can be coupled to the calibration base 100. In various embodiments, the calibration cover 105 can be rotatably attached to the calibration base 100 at a coupling end 115 of the calibration base 100. In various embodiments, the calibration cover 105 can be configured to be in a closed position ( Figure 1A ) and the open position ( Figure 1B ), in which the cover is connected to the calibration base 100 via the fastening mechanism 110, and in which the fastening mechanism 110 between the calibration base 100 and the calibration cover 105 is separated so that the calibration cover rotates about the connecting end 115 to expose the interior of the calibration base (e.g., the calibration insert 211).

[0029] In various embodiments, such as Figure 1B As shown, the calibration device 10 can be configured to lie flat or otherwise rest on a surface when the calibration device 10 is in the open position. In various embodiments, the calibration cover 105 can have one or more grooves 107 to provide additional stability to the calibration device 10 in some examples when the calibration device 10 is in the open position. Figure 2A and 2B As discussed, with the calibration cover 105 opened (eg, the fastening mechanism 110 detached), the at least one earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B may be exposed such that an earphone may be placed therein for calibration using the calibration apparatus 10 .

[0030] In various embodiments, the calibration device 10 may be similar to the situation when the calibration device 10 is in the closed position, so that in some examples, the calibration device can be portable (e.g., can be carried relatively easily). In various embodiments, the calibration base 100 and / or the calibration cover 105 may have a handle to allow the calibration device 10 to be carried by a person. In addition, in some examples, the closed position of the calibration device 10 can provide a compact device that allows quick and easy storage (e.g., the calibration device 10 can be stored when not in use). For example, all components required to connect the calibration device 10 to the calibration system can be stored in the calibration device 10 in the closed position. In various embodiments, the calibration cover 105 can be attached to the calibration base 100 in various ways not discussed herein. For example, the calibration device 10 may have multiple fastening mechanisms so that the calibration cover 105 can be completely removed from the calibration base 100 when the calibration device 10 is in the open position.

[0031] In various embodiments, the calibration base 100 and / or the calibration cover 105 may define a rounded outer surface, such that an ergonomic shape may be achieved in some examples. In various embodiments, the calibration base 100 may have a calibration base edge 101, and the calibration cover 105 may have a calibration cover edge 111. In various embodiments, when the calibration device 10 is in the closed position, the calibration base edge 101 and the calibration cover edge 111 may engage with each other, such that the interior of the calibration device (see FIG. 1 ) is not substantially rounded. Figure 2A-2B Discussion) can be sealed (e.g., protected from the environment to allow storage).

[0032] Figure 2A 1 is yet another view of an example calibration device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the cover is in an open position. In various embodiments, the calibration cover 105 can be configured to store or otherwise retain the calibration tube 230 when the calibration tube 230 is not in use (e.g., not coupled to the calibration tube receiver 220). In some examples, the calibration tube 230 can be operably connected at a first end to the calibration device and the calibration tube receiver 220 in the calibration insert 211.

[0033] like Figure 2A and 6As shown, the calibration cover 105 can define an interior compartment 201 within the calibration device 10. For example, with the calibration device 10 in the closed position, the interior compartment 201 of the calibration cover 105 can be defined between an interior surface 202 of the calibration cover 105 and a calibration insert 211 of the calibration base 100. In various embodiments, the interior compartment 201 of the calibration cover 105 can define a cover depth, which is defined as the distance between the interior surface 202 and the cover edge 203. In some embodiments, the cover depth can be sufficient to allow the calibration tube 230 to be accommodated within the interior compartment 201 with the calibration device 10 in the closed position.

[0034] In various embodiments, the interior compartment 201 of the calibration cap 105 may define one or more calibration tube hooks 225 and / or one or more calibration collars 235 configured to hold the calibration tube 230 in place during storage. In various embodiments, at least one of the calibration tube hooks 225 may provide a generally curved shape so that in some examples the calibration tube 230 is not subjected to stress and / or wrinkling when stored. In various embodiments, one or more calibration collars 235 may be provided to receive (e.g., slidably receive and / or surround) each end of the calibration tube 230 when the calibration tube 230 is engaged with the calibration tube hooks 225, such as Figure 2A In various embodiments and where the calibration tube 230 can be held in place within the calibration cover 105, the calibration cover 105 can be movable from an open position into a closed position.

[0035] In some examples, the fastening mechanism 110 can fasten the calibration cover 105 to the calibration base 100. In various embodiments, the cover depth can be sufficient to allow the calibration tube 230 to be retained without interfering with the calibration insert 211 of the calibration base 100 with the calibration device 10 in the closed position.

[0036] In various embodiments, the calibration base 100 may include a calibration insert 211 that is configured to fit within and / or otherwise be secured by the calibration base 100. In some alternative embodiments, the calibration insert 211 may be integrally formed with the calibration base 100. In various embodiments, the calibration insert 211 may be a separate component that is operably coupled within the calibration base 100. In various embodiments where the calibration insert 211 is a separate component, the calibration insert 211 may fit tightly and / or be rigidly attached to the calibration base 100 (e.g., the calibration insert 211 may be glued into place).

[0037] In various embodiments, the calibration insert 211 may include at least one earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B, an ejector activator 215, and a calibration tube receiver 220. In various embodiments, the calibration tube receiver 220 may be configured such that a calibration tube 230 may be removably coupled to the calibration tube receiver 220 at a first end and coupled to a calibration system (not shown) at a second end.

[0038] As shown, in various embodiments, the calibration insert 211 of the calibration base 100 may include one or more earphone receiving mechanisms (e.g., left earphone receiving mechanism 200A and right earphone receiving mechanism 200B), an ejector activator (e.g., ejector button 215), and a calibration tube receiver 220. In various embodiments, the left earphone receiving mechanism 200A and the right earphone receiving mechanism 200B may each include a left stationary block 205A and a right stationary block 205B, which are respectively configured to engage with a given earphone through the force provided by the tensioning members 210A, 210B. In various embodiments, the left earphone receiving mechanism 200A may be a mirror image of the right earphone receiving mechanism 200B.

[0039] In various embodiments, the left earphone receiving mechanism 200A can be configured to receive an earphone designed for the user's left ear, and the right earphone receiving mechanism 200B can be configured to receive an earphone designed for the user's right ear. In some examples, the stationary blocks 205A, 205B can protrude from the surface of the calibration insert 211. In some embodiments, the stationary blocks 205A, 205B can have a height substantially equal to the height of the earphone, and define a face opposite to a given tensioning member 210A, 210B, the opposite face being etched or otherwise molded into a pattern complementary to the earphone (e.g., a substantially serrated path, a relatively smooth path, etc.). In various embodiments, the left stationary block 205A and the right stationary block 205B can be molded as part of the calibration insert 211. Alternatively, the left stationary block 205A and the right stationary block 205B can be fixedly attached to the calibration insert 211 so that the left stationary block 205A and the right stationary block 205B can each remain fixed relative to the calibration base 100.

[0040] In various embodiments, each of the one or more earphone receiving mechanisms (e.g., the left earphone receiving mechanism 200A and the right earphone receiving mechanism 200B) may also include a tensioning member (e.g., the left tensioning member 210A and the right tensioning member 210B). In some examples, at least a portion of the tensioning members 210A, 210B may protrude from the calibration insert 211. In various embodiments, the tensioning members 210A, 210B may have a height that is substantially equal to the height of the earphone and define a face opposite a given stationary block 205A, 205B, and the face opposite the stationary block 205A, 205B is etched or otherwise molded into a pattern complementary to the earphone (e.g., a substantially zigzag path, a relatively smooth path, etc.).

[0041] The left tension member 210A and the right tension member 210B can each be spring-loaded such that the respective spring provides a force on the respective tension member 210A, 210B in the direction of the respective stationary block 205A, 205B (e.g., a given tension member 210A, 210B has a restoring force in the direction of the respective stationary block 205A, 205B such that the tension member 210A, 210B can resist any attempted movement in a direction opposite to the stationary block 205A, 205B). For example, the respective tension member 210A, 210B can be moved or otherwise urged away from the respective stationary block 205A, 205B to allow the earphone 212A, 212B to be placed between the respective tension member 210A, 210B and the respective stationary block 205A, 205B. In operation and once the user releases a given tensioning member 210A, 210B, the given tensioning member will move in the direction of the corresponding stationary block 205A, 205B into engagement with the corresponding earphone 212A, 212B. In various embodiments, the force provided by the spring-loaded tensioning members 210A, 210B may hold the earphones 212A, 212B in place during calibration. For example, in various embodiments, the spring-loaded tensioning members 210A, 210B may provide a reaction force of 1.5 N to hold the earphones 212A, 212B in place during calibration. In various embodiments, the force provided by the spring-loaded tensioning members 210A, 210B may depend on the force required to hold the earphones in place during calibration.

[0042] In addition, in reference Figure 5A and 5BIn various embodiments discussed in more detail, the tensioning members 210A, 210B can each be configured to maintain a seal between a microphone seal provided in the earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B and the earphone microphone of a given earphone 212A, 212B. In such embodiments, the seal provides a sealed fluid connection between the earphone microphone and the docking portion to connect the calibration adapter. For example, the seal can be a soft material configured to selectively allow sound to pass therethrough. In various embodiments, the tensioning members 210A, 210B can be replaceable so that the calibration device 10 can be upgraded and / or maintained in working condition.

[0043] In various embodiments, the headset receiving mechanism 200A, 200B may be specifically designed for a given headset design (e.g., Figure 4A and Figure 4B The earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B shown is specially designed to receive Figures 3A-3D 10). In various embodiments, the shape of a given earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B and the position of the seal may be based on the earphone to be calibrated. In some embodiments, the same calibration device 10 may be used to calibrate one or more different earphones. In various embodiments, one or more of the components may be interchangeable so that the calibration device may receive earphones of multiple different shapes. For example, the earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B and / or the tensioning member 210A, 210B may be replaced to fit different earphone shapes. In various embodiments, a microphone seal (e.g., microphone seals 400A, 400B, 410A, 410B) may provide an airtight sealed connection between a given microphone of an earphone and a calibration tube receiver 220 and a calibration system subsequently connected to the calibration tube receiver 220 via the calibration tube 230. In various embodiments, the microphone seal (e.g., microphone seals 400A, 400B, 410A, 410B) may be made of rubber, polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, and / or the like. In various embodiments, the force provided by the tensioning members (eg, tensioning members 210A, 210B) on the earphone may also provide a sealing force in some examples so that the microphone may be sealed in situations where the microphone seal wears due to extensive use.

[0044] In various embodiments, the calibration base 100 of the calibration device 10 may have an ejector activator (e.g., an ejector button 215) configured to allow the earphone to be ejected from a given earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B. In various embodiments, the ejector button 215 may be connected to an ejector mechanism (e.g., Figure 5D), the ejector mechanism may raise (e.g., by a few millimeters) a given earphone away from the calibration base 100. In such an embodiment, the raising of a given earphone may at least partially release the force provided by a given tensioning member 210A, 210B, causing the given tensioning member 210A, 210B to disengage from a given earphone 212A, 212B, such that the earphone may be removed from a given earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B. In some embodiments, the tensioning members 210A, 210B may be movable by a user independently of the ejector button 215. For example, a user may be able to manually move a given tensioning member 210A, 210B away from a given stationary block 205A, 205B by placing their fingers on the tensioning member itself. In various embodiments, one or more different ejector mechanisms may be provided in place of or in addition to the ejector mechanisms discussed herein to allow the earphone to be removed from the calibration device 10.

[0045] In various embodiments, the calibration base 100 of the calibration device 10 may have a calibration tube receiver 220 configured to be coupled to the calibration tube 230. In various embodiments, the calibration tube receiver 220 may be coupled to the calibration tube 230 as described above. Figure 4A and 4B In various embodiments, the type of calibration tube receiver 220 can be based on the calibration tube 230 used. For example, the calibration tube receiver 220 can be configured to receive the end of the calibration tube 230. In various embodiments, the calibration tube 230 can connect the calibration device 10 to a calibrator system that is configured to provide calibration to the sealed microphone within the calibration device. Figure 5AAs shown, the calibration tube receiver 220 may have threads and / or other types of adapters configured to removably couple the calibration tube 230 to the calibration device 10. In various embodiments, the at least one earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B and the calibration tube receiver 220 may be connected via an air chamber. In various embodiments, the air chamber is positioned between the calibration insert 211 and the calibration base 100. In an example embodiment, the air chamber may be defined between the calibration base 100 and the calibration insert 211 (e.g., the calibration insert 211 and the calibration base 100 may define a sealed compartment). In various embodiments, a dedicated air chamber container may be provided between the calibration base 100 and the calibration insert 211. In various embodiments, the air chamber may be connected to the calibration tube receiver 220 and the earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B, so that the calibrator system can be connected to the air chamber and then connected to the earphone. For example, the air chamber may define any area between the calibration tube receiver 220 and the earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B. In various embodiments, an airtight connection can be achieved between the earphone and the calibration system when the earphone is engaged in at least one of the earphone receiving mechanisms 200A, 200B and the calibration system is connected to the calibration device 10 (for example, via the calibration tube 230 connected to the calibration tube receiver 220).

[0046] Reference now Figure 4A and Figure 4B, each of the earphone receiving mechanisms 200A, 200B may be configured with one or more microphone seals (e.g., microphone seals 400A, 400B, 410A, 410B). In various embodiments, the microphone seals may be disposed in the stationary blocks 205A, 205B (e.g., external microphone seals 400A, 400B) and / or the calibration insert 211 (e.g., internal microphone seals 410A, 410B). In the case where the microphone seals are disposed in the stationary blocks 205A, 205B, the microphone seals 400A, 400B may take the form of rubber or metal seals that surround one or more sealing channels 405A, 405B defined in the stationary blocks 205A, 205B. In operation and when the earphone is secured in the earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B, the seal engages a surface of the earphone (e.g., near the microphone) to provide an airtight seal between the earphone and the sealing channel 405A, 405B, which may not allow sound to escape during calibration. In various embodiments, the microphone seal may provide an airtight connection between the earphone and the air chamber within the calibration base 100 (e.g., the microphone seal may have a hole connected to the air chamber within the calibration base 100). In various embodiments, the calibration device 10 may be configured in some examples to increase life by using both the sealing surface (e.g., the seal of 400A, 400B) and also using the engagement force provided by the tensioning member 210A, 210B. For example, the microphone seal 400A, 400B may deteriorate over time, but the tensioning member 210A, 210B may still provide sufficient force to seal the channel 405A, 405B between the stationary block 205A, 205B and a given earphone.

[0047] In the event that one or more of the microphone seals are disposed within the calibration insert 211 (e.g., the inner microphone seals 410A, 410B), the microphone seals 410A, 410B may take the form of rubber or metal seals that surround one or more sealing channels 415A, 415B, 420A, 420B defined in the calibration insert 211. In some embodiments, a cavity within the calibration insert 211 may be defined for the inner microphone seals 410A, 410B. In operation and when the earphone is secured in the earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B, the seal engages a surface of the earphone (e.g., proximate the microphone) to provide an airtight seal between the earphone and the sealing channels 415A, 415B, 420A, 420B that may not allow sound to escape during calibration. In various embodiments, the microphone seal may provide an airtight connection between the earphone (e.g., a microphone of the earphone) and an air chamber within the calibration base 100 (e.g., the sealing channel may be a soft material configured to connect the air chamber to the earphone within the calibration base 100). In various embodiments, the calibration device 10 may be configured in some examples to increase life by using both the sealing surfaces (e.g., the seals of 410A, 410B) and also using the engagement force provided by the tensioning members 210A, 210B. For example, the microphone seals 410A, 410B may degrade over time, but the tensioning members 210A, 210B may still provide sufficient force to seal the channels 415A, 415B due in part to the weight of the earphone.

[0048] Figures 3A-3D An example left earphone 212A is illustrated for use in a calibration device 10 as discussed herein. In various embodiments, earphones 212A, 212B can be configured to at least partially protrude into an ear canal of a user during use (e.g., earphones 212A, 212B can be in-ear earphones). As shown, in various embodiments, an earphone discussed herein (e.g., left earphone 212A) can have one or more microphones (e.g., internal and / or external microphones). In various embodiments, an earphone (e.g., Figures 3A-3D The left earphone 212A shown in FIG. 1 may have one or more external microphones 300. In some embodiments, the external microphone 300 may have a removable cover 305 (as shown in FIG. Figure 3A Installed in and Figure 3B In various embodiments, the removable cover 305 may be removed (eg, the earphone receiving mechanism may form a seal with the external microphone 300) for the calibration process. In various embodiments, the earphone (eg, Figures 3A-3DThe left earphone 212A shown may have one or more internal microphones 310. In various embodiments, the internal microphone 310 may also need to be sealed during the calibration process. In various embodiments, each microphone on a given earphone 212A, 212B may need to be sealed to allow calibration to be effective.

[0049] Figure 5A and Figure 6 Another example calibration base for use in various embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. Unless otherwise stated, Figure 5A and 6 The operation of the calibration base 100 is the same as that described above with reference to Figure 2A and 2B The calibration base 100 discussed above is the same. Figure 5A As shown, in various embodiments, the left earphone receiving mechanism 200A may include a left earphone hole 505A and a tensioning member 210A. Similarly, in various embodiments, the right earphone receiving mechanism 200B may include a right earphone hole 505B and a tensioning member 210B. In various embodiments, the respective tensioning members 210A, 210B may be spring-loaded (e.g., one or more springs 510A, 510B may be attached to the tensioning members 210A, 210B at a first end and to the calibration insert 211 at another end, such that when the tensioning members 210A, 210B are moved away from the area where the earphones are to be placed, the springs contract and provide resistance to such movement (e.g., the force of the springs maintains engagement of the earphones 212A, 212B and the tensioning members 210A, 210B during operation). ... The tension members 210A, 210B may be configured to protrude into the respective earphone holes 505A, 505B such that the tension members 210A, 210B engage the respective earphones 212A, 212B to retain the earphones within the respective earphone holes 505A, 505B. In various embodiments, an ejector activator (e.g., an ejector button 215) may be provided to disengage one or more tension members 210A, 210B from the respective earphones 212A, 212B by lifting a given earphone 212A, 212B to allow the earphones to be removed from the calibration device 10. Figure 5A As shown, in various embodiments, the calibration tube receiver 220 may include threads to allow the calibration tube 230 to be removably attached to the calibration base 100 . Figure 6 A calibration tube 230 is illustrated coupled to a calibration tube receiver 220 in accordance with various embodiments.

[0050] In various embodiments, the calibration device 10 can be operably coupled to a calibration system to calibrate one or more earphones held in the earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B. In various embodiments, in operation, the calibration tube 230 can be operably coupled to the calibration system at one end and then attached to the calibration tube receiver 220 of the calibration device 10 at the opposite end of the calibration tube 230. In various embodiments, the calibration tube receiver 220 can be communicated with an air chamber, which can also be coupled to one or more earphone receiving mechanisms so that an airtight connection can be achieved between one or more microphones of the earphones 212A, 212B received by the earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B. As discussed above, the calibration system can be a sound source (e.g., a laboratory standard sound source can be used for calibration). In various embodiments, the calibration system can be configured to operate under harsh environmental conditions. For example, the calibration system can be a piston sounder (e.g., a piston sounder can operate according to the principle of four reciprocating pistons actuated by a precision machined cam with a sinusoidal profile). In this way, the calibration device 10 can be operably coupled to a calibration system (eg, via the calibration tube 230) that isolates the microphones of the earphones 212A, 212B installed in the earphone receiving mechanisms 200A, 200B.

[0051] like Figure 5B As shown, each earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B may have one or more calibration tube adapter connectors 520A, 520B that are configured to connect a given earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B to a calibration tube receiver 220 (e.g., via connector 530). For example, the air chamber discussed above may be defined in a tube that connects the one or more calibration tube adapter connectors 520A to the calibration tube receiver 220. Additionally or alternatively, one or more calibration tube adapter connectors 520A, 520B may be operably coupled to a separate air chamber (e.g., an air chamber may be defined between one or more of the calibration tube adapter connectors 520A, 520B and the calibration tube receiver). As shown in FIG. Figure 5B As shown, each earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B may define one or more springs 510A, 510B configured to hold the earphones 212A, 212B in place during calibration (eg, a spring may hold a given tensioning member 210A, 210B in place during calibration).

[0052] Reference now Figure 5C and 5D , illustrates the operation of the ejector button 215 according to various embodiments. Figure 5CAs shown, with the earphone positioned with the earphone receiving mechanism 200A, an ejector button 215 (e.g., a depressible button, etc.) may be engageable by a user (e.g., a user may be able to depress the ejector button 215). In various embodiments, the ejector button 215 may be connected to an ejector mechanism 540 within the earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B that is configured to engage with at least one of the components of the earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B. For example, Figure 5D As shown, the ejector mechanism 540 can be configured to engage with a given earphone 212A, 212B when activated to raise the earphone away from the calibration insert so that the force provided by the tensioning member on the earphone is reduced, thereby allowing the earphone to be removed. In various embodiments, the ejector mechanism 540 can interact with other components of the earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B to assist in the removal of the earphone from the given earphone receiving mechanism. In various embodiments, each earphone receiving mechanism 200A, 200B can have an ejector mechanism 540 activated by a common or independent ejector button. In various embodiments, the ejector button 215 can be any type of activation mechanism.

[0053] Benefiting from the teachings presented in the foregoing description and the associated drawings, those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs will think of many modifications and other embodiments of the present disclosure set forth herein. Therefore, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. In addition, although the foregoing description and the associated drawings describe the exemplary embodiments in the context of specific example combinations of elements and / or functions, it should be understood that alternative embodiments may provide different combinations of elements and / or functions without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In this regard, for example, it is also conceivable to combine elements and / or functions that are different from those explicitly described above, as if they could be set forth in some of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are only used in a general and descriptive sense, not for the purpose of limitation.

Claims

1. A calibration device for a hearing earphone, the hearing earphone being configured to at least partially protrude into an ear canal of a user, the calibration device comprising: a calibration base comprising a calibration insert, wherein an air chamber is defined between the calibration base and the calibration insert; and at least one earphone receiving mechanism defined on the calibration insert, the at least one earphone receiving mechanism being configured to form a sealed connection between a given earphone and the air chamber for calibration, wherein the earphone receiving mechanism is configured to at least partially receive a given earphone, Therein, the earphone receiving mechanism includes a stationary mass and a tensioning member, wherein the tensioning member is spring loaded so that the given earphone is held in place between the stationary mass and the tensioning member during calibration.

2. The calibration device of claim 1, further comprising a calibration tube receiver configured to operably couple the gas chamber to a calibrator system, wherein: The calibrator system provides calibration to a given headphone held in the at least one headphone receiving mechanism.

3. The calibration device according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the at least one earphone receiving mechanisms includes one or more microphone seals configured to engage with the given earphone such that an airtight seal is achieved between the microphone seal and the given earphone.

4. The calibration device of claim 1, further comprising an ejector mechanism, wherein: The ejector mechanism is configured to allow removal of the given earphone from the calibration device.

5. The calibration device according to claim 1, wherein: The stationary mass includes a microphone seal, wherein the microphone seal is configured to seal one of the microphones of a given earphone with the given earphone positioned between the stationary mass and the tensioning member.

6. The calibration device according to claim 5, wherein: An inner microphone seal is positioned between the stationary mass and the tension member on the calibration apparatus, wherein the inner microphone seal is configured to seal against another microphone of the given earphone when the earphone is positioned between the stationary mass and the tension member.

7. The calibration device of claim 2, further comprising a calibration tube configured to be removably attached to the calibration tube receiver at a first end and to be attached to the calibrator system at a second end opposite the first end.

8. The calibration device according to claim 7, further comprising a cover, wherein The cover is configured to be removably coupled to the calibration base at a locking end of the calibration base and to be operably coupled to the calibration base at a connecting end opposite the locking end, wherein the cover is configured to move between an open position and a closed position.

9. The calibration device according to claim 8, wherein: The cover includes a securing mechanism to provide stability to the calibration device when the calibration device is in an open position, wherein the securing mechanism includes one or more grooves.

10. The calibration device according to claim 8, wherein: At least one of the calibration base and the cover also includes a handle for a person to carry the calibration device.

11. The calibration device according to claim 8, wherein: At least one of the calibration base and the cover defines a circular outer surface.

12. The calibration device according to claim 8, wherein: The calibration base includes a calibration base edge and the cover includes a cover edge, wherein the calibration base edge and the cover edge engage one another to seal an interior compartment of the calibration device.

13. The calibration device according to claim 8, wherein: The cover includes an interior compartment, and wherein the interior compartment defines a cover depth, the cover depth being the distance between an interior surface of the cover and a cover edge.

14. The calibration device according to claim 13, wherein: The interior compartment of the cover includes at least one of a calibration tube hook and a calibration collar, wherein the calibration collar is configured to receive each end of the calibration tube when the calibration tube is engaged with the calibration tube hook.

15. The calibration device according to claim 13, wherein: The cover depth is configured to allow the calibration tube to be received within the interior compartment without interfering with the calibration insert when the calibration device is in a closed position.

16. A method of manufacturing a calibration device for a hearing earphone configured to at least partially protrude into an ear canal of a user, the method comprising: providing a calibration base including a calibration insert, wherein an air chamber is defined between the calibration base and the calibration insert; and providing at least one earphone receiving mechanism defined on the calibration insert, the at least one earphone being configured to form a sealed connection between a given earphone and the air chamber for calibration, wherein the earphone receiving mechanism is configured to at least partially receive a given earphone, Wherein the earphone receiving mechanism comprises a stationary mass and a tensioning member, wherein the tensioning member is spring loaded so that the given earphone is held in place between the stationary mass and the tensioning member during calibration.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising providing a calibration tube receiver configured to operably couple the gas chamber with a calibrator system, wherein: The calibrator system provides calibration to a given headphone held in the at least one headphone receiving mechanism.

18. The method according to claim 16, wherein: Each of the at least one earphone receiving mechanisms includes one or more microphone seals configured to engage with the given earphone such that an airtight seal is achieved between the microphone seal and the given earphone.

19. The method of claim 16, further comprising providing an ejector mechanism, wherein: The ejector mechanism is configured to allow removal of the given earphone from the calibration device.

20. The method according to claim 16, wherein: The stationary mass includes a microphone seal, wherein the microphone seal is configured to seal one of the microphones of a given earphone with the given earphone positioned between the stationary mass and the tensioning member.

21. The method according to claim 20, wherein: An inner microphone seal is positioned on the calibration device between the stationary mass and the tension member, wherein the inner microphone seal is configured to seal against another microphone of the given earphone when the earphone is positioned between the stationary mass and the tension member.

22. The method of claim 17, further comprising providing a calibration tube configured to be removably attached to the calibration tube receiver at a first end and to be attached to a calibrator system at a second end opposite the first end.

23. The method of claim 22, further comprising operably coupling a cover to the calibration base, wherein: The cover is configured to be removably coupled to the calibration base at a locking end of the calibration base and to be operably coupled to the calibration base at a connecting end opposite the locking end, wherein the cover is configured to move between an open position and a closed position.

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein: The cover includes a securing mechanism to provide stability to the calibration device when the calibration device is in an open position, wherein the securing mechanism includes one or more grooves.

25. The method according to claim 23, wherein: At least one of the calibration base and the cover also includes a handle for a person to carry the calibration device.

26. The method of claim 23, providing at least one of the calibration base and the cover defining a circular outer surface.

27. The method according to claim 23, wherein: The calibration base includes a calibration base edge and the cover includes a cover edge, wherein the calibration base edge and the cover edge engage one another to seal an interior compartment of the calibration device.

28. The method of claim 23, wherein: The cover includes an interior compartment, and wherein the interior compartment defines a cover depth, the cover depth being the distance between an interior surface of the cover and a cover edge.

29. The method of claim 28, providing the interior compartment of the cover with at least one of a calibration pipe hook and a calibration collar, wherein: The calibration collar is configured to receive each end of the calibration tube when the calibration tube is engaged with the calibration tube hook.

30. The method of claim 28, wherein: The cover depth is configured to allow the calibration tube to be received within the interior compartment without interfering with the calibration insert when the calibration device is in a closed position.

31. A calibration device for a hearing headset, the calibration device comprising: a calibration base including a calibration insert, and At least one earphone receiving mechanism is defined on the calibration insert, the at least one earphone receiving mechanism being configured to calibrate at least one earphone, wherein the at least one earphone receiving mechanism is configured to at least partially receive the at least one earphone, wherein the at least one earphone receiving mechanism includes a stationary block and a tensioning member, wherein the tensioning member is spring loaded such that the at least one earphone is maintained in position between the stationary block and the tensioning member during calibration.

32. The calibration device of claim 31 further comprising an air chamber, wherein the air chamber is defined between the calibration base and the calibration insert.

33. The calibration device according to claim 32, wherein: The at least one earphone receiving mechanism is configured to form a sealed connection between the at least one earphone and the air chamber.

34. The calibration device of claim 32, further comprising a calibration tube receiver configured to operably couple the gas chamber to a calibrator system, wherein: The calibrator system provides calibration to the at least one headphone held in the at least one headphone receiving mechanism.

35. The calibration device according to claim 31, wherein: The at least one earphone receiving mechanism includes one or more microphone seals configured to engage with the at least one earphone so as to achieve an airtight seal between the one or more microphone seals and at least one microphone of the at least one earphone.

36. The calibration device of claim 31 further comprising an ejector mechanism, wherein: The ejector mechanism is configured to allow removal of the at least one earphone from the calibration device.

37. The calibration device according to claim 31, wherein: The stationary mass includes a microphone seal, wherein the microphone seal is configured to seal at least one microphone of the at least one earphone with the at least one earphone positioned between the stationary mass and the tensioning member.

38. The calibration device of claim 31, wherein: An inner microphone seal is positioned on the calibration device between the stationary block and the tensioning member, wherein the inner microphone seal is configured to seal another microphone of the at least one earphone when the at least one earphone is positioned between the stationary block and the tensioning member.

39. The calibration device of claim 31 further comprising a calibration tube configured to be removably attached to the calibration tube receiver at a first end and to be attached to the calibrator system at a second end opposite the first end.

40. The calibration device of claim 39, further comprising a cover, wherein: The cover is configured to be removably coupled to the calibration base at a locking end of the calibration base and to be operably coupled to the calibration base at a connecting end opposite the locking end, wherein the cover is configured to move between an open position and a closed position.

41. The calibration device according to claim 40, wherein: The cover includes a securing mechanism to provide stability to the calibration device when the calibration device is in an open position, wherein the securing mechanism includes one or more grooves.

42. The calibration device of claim 40, wherein: At least one of the calibration base and the cover also includes a handle for a person to carry the calibration device.

43. The calibration device of claim 40, wherein: At least one of the calibration base and the cover defines a circular outer surface.

44. The calibration device of claim 40, wherein: The calibration base includes a calibration base edge and the cover includes a cover edge, wherein the calibration base edge and the cover edge engage one another to seal an interior compartment of the calibration device.

45. The calibration device of claim 40, wherein: The cover includes an interior compartment, and wherein the interior compartment defines a cover depth, the cover depth being the distance between an interior surface of the cover and a cover edge.

46. ​​The calibration device of claim 45, wherein: The interior compartment of the cover includes at least one of a calibration tube hook and a calibration collar, wherein the calibration collar is configured to receive each end of the calibration tube when the calibration tube is engaged with the calibration tube hook.

47. The calibration device of claim 45, wherein: The cover depth is configured to allow the calibration tube to be received within the interior compartment without interfering with the calibration insert when the calibration device is in a closed position.

48. A method of manufacturing a calibration device for a hearing earphone, the method comprising: A calibration base is provided including a calibration insert, and at least one earphone receiving mechanism is provided defined on the calibration insert, the at least one earphone receiving mechanism being configured to calibrate at least one earphone, wherein the at least one earphone receiving mechanism is configured to at least partially receive the at least one earphone, wherein the at least one earphone receiving mechanism includes a stationary block and a tensioning member, wherein the tensioning member is spring loaded such that the at least one earphone is held in position between the stationary block and the tensioning member during calibration.

49. The method of claim 48, further comprising providing an air chamber, wherein: The air chamber is defined between the calibration base and the calibration insert.

50. The method of claim 49, wherein: The at least one earphone receiving mechanism is configured to form a sealed connection between the at least one earphone and the air chamber.

51. The method of claim 49, further comprising providing a calibration tube receiver configured to operably couple the plenum to a calibrator system, wherein: The calibrator system provides calibration to the at least one headphone held in the at least one headphone receiving mechanism.

52. The method of claim 48, wherein: The at least one earphone receiving mechanism includes one or more microphone seals configured to engage with the at least one earphone so as to achieve an airtight seal between the one or more microphone seals and at least one microphone of the at least one earphone.

53. The method of claim 48, further comprising providing an ejector mechanism, wherein: The ejector mechanism is configured to allow removal of the at least one earphone from the calibration device.

54. The method of claim 48, wherein: The stationary mass includes a microphone seal, wherein the microphone seal is configured to seal at least one microphone of the at least one earphone with the at least one earphone positioned between the stationary mass and the tensioning member.

55. The method of claim 54, wherein: An inner microphone seal is positioned on the calibration device between the stationary block and the tensioning member, wherein the inner microphone seal is configured to seal another microphone of the at least one earphone when the at least one earphone is positioned between the stationary block and the tensioning member.

56. The method of claim 48, further comprising providing a calibration tube configured to be removably attached to a calibration tube receiver at a first end and to be attached to a calibrator system at a second end opposite the first end.

57. The method of claim 56, further comprising operably coupling a cover to the calibration base, wherein: The cover is configured to be removably coupled to the calibration base at a locking end of the calibration base and to be operably coupled to the calibration base at a connecting end opposite the locking end, wherein the cover is configured to move between an open position and a closed position.

58. The method of claim 57, wherein: The cover includes a securing mechanism to provide stability to the calibration device when the calibration device is in an open position, wherein the securing mechanism includes one or more grooves.

59. The method of claim 57, wherein: At least one of the calibration base and the cover also includes a handle for a person to carry the calibration device.

60. The method of claim 57, providing at least one of the calibration base and the cover defining a circular outer surface.

61. The method of claim 57, wherein: The calibration base includes a calibration base edge and the cover includes a cover edge, wherein the calibration base edge and the cover edge engage one another to seal an interior compartment of the calibration device.

62. The method of claim 57, wherein: The cover includes an interior compartment, and wherein the interior compartment defines a cover depth, the cover depth being the distance between an interior surface of the cover and a cover edge.

63. The method of claim 62, providing the interior compartment of the cover with at least one of a calibration tube hook and a calibration collar, wherein: The calibration collar is configured to receive each end of the calibration tube when the calibration tube is engaged with the calibration tube hook.

64. The method of claim 62, wherein: The cover depth is configured to allow the calibration tube to be received within the interior compartment without interfering with the calibration insert when the calibration device is in a closed position.

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