earphone

Abstract

The application provides an earphone, which comprises an earphone head configured to output sound wave signals, and an ear stem connected with the earphone head, wherein a spiral antenna is arranged in the ear stem, and the spiral antenna is configured to wirelessly communicate with an external device. The spiral antenna has a three-dimensional structure, and compared with an antenna with a planar structure, if the effective length of the antenna for radiating an antenna signal is the same, the overall length of the spiral antenna is shorter and more compact than that of the antenna with the planar structure, and the spiral antenna can be more conveniently arranged in the ear stem. If the overall length of the antenna is the same, the spiral antenna has a longer effective length of the antenna than the antenna with the planar structure, can radiate an antenna signal with a larger frequency range, and is more likely to set the radiated frequency according to requirements.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electronic technology, and more particularly to a pair of headphones. Background Technology

[0002] Headphones are a very popular electronic device accessory, widely favored for their compact size and portability. Wired headphones require a cable to connect to the corresponding electronic device, which can be inconvenient when using them while on the go. Wireless headphones, utilizing wireless connection methods such as Bluetooth, can eliminate the comfort issues associated with wired headphones. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides an earphone with a relatively small overall length occupied by a helical antenna.

[0004] This application provides an earphone, which includes:

[0005] Earphone head, the earphone head being used to output sound wave signals; and

[0006] The ear stem is connected to the earphone head, and a helical antenna is provided inside the ear stem for wireless communication with external devices.

[0007] In this embodiment, a helical antenna is disposed within the earpiece stem. The helical antenna has a three-dimensional structure. Compared to a planar antenna, if the effective length of the radiating antenna signal is the same, the overall length of the helical antenna is shorter and more compact than that of a planar antenna. It can also accommodate the shape of the earpiece stem, optimizing stacking space and avoiding any impact on appearance. If the overall antenna length is the same, the helical antenna has a longer effective antenna length than a planar antenna, enabling it to radiate antenna signals over a wider frequency range and making it easier to set the radiation frequency as needed. Attached Figure Description

[0008] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0009] To gain a more complete understanding of this application and its beneficial effects, the following description will be provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals in the following description denote the same parts.

[0010] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the first structure of the earphone provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0011] Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of a second structure of the earphone provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a third structure of the headphones provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0013] Figure 4 for Figure 3 The diagram shows the structure of the circuit board and helical antenna in the earphone.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a fourth structure of the earphone provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0015] Figure 6 for Figure 5 The diagram shows the structure of the circuit board and helical antenna in the earphone.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the helical antenna and support plate provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0017] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the helical antenna and the carrier plate provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0018] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit board and helical antenna in the earphone provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0019] Figure 10 This is another schematic diagram of the circuit board and helical antenna in the earphone provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0020] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the fifth structure of the earphone provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0021] Figure 12 for Figure 5 The diagram shows another structural schematic of the circuit board and helical antenna in the earphone.

[0022] Figure 13 for Figure 12 The diagram shows the connection between the communication chip and the helical antenna.

[0023] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a helical antenna provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0024] Figure 15 for Figure 14 An enlarged schematic diagram of part A of the spiral antenna shown.

[0025] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the field shape of the helical antenna in the earphone provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0026] Figure 17A sixth structural diagram of the earphone provided in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the protection scope of this application.

[0028] This application provides an embodiment of an earphone; please refer to the details. Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a first structural embodiment of the earphone provided in this application. The earphone 100 includes an earphone head 120 and an ear stem 140. The earphone head 120 can be used to output sound wave signals, allowing a user to receive the sound wave signals and generate corresponding audio signals. Exemplarily, the earphone 100 can be an air-conductive earphone, and the earphone head 120 can be provided with a sound outlet 122. Sound wave signals (such as sound waves or vibration signals) emitted by the electroacoustic transducer (such as a speaker) inside the earphone 100 can be conducted to the outside of the earphone 100 through the sound outlet 122. The earphone head 120 is placed on the user's ear, thereby transmitting the sound wave signals conducted through the sound outlet 122 to the user's auditory nerve through the air, providing audio services to the user. For example, the earphone 100 can play music to the user, or the earphone 100 can play voice messages to the user. In another example, the headphones can be bone conduction headphones. The headphone head does not need a sound outlet; it is directly adjacent to the user. The sound wave signal (such as sound wave or vibration signal) emitted by the electroacoustic converter inside the headphones is transmitted directly to the auditory nerve through the bone via the headphone head, without the need for air conduction. The ear stem 140 is connected to the headphone head 120, and a helical antenna 160 is provided inside the ear stem 140 for wireless communication with external devices. It is understood that the headphones in this embodiment can be wireless headphones. The headphones 100 communicate wirelessly with external devices through the helical antenna 160, acquiring the played audio digital signal from the external device. Then, the electroacoustic converter inside the headphones 100 converts this audio digital signal into a sound signal, thus freeing the headphones 100 from the limitations of wired headphones.

[0029] Furthermore, the helical antenna 160 has a three-dimensional structure. Compared to a planar antenna, if the effective length of the radiating antenna signal is the same, the overall length of the helical antenna 160 is shorter and more compact than that of a planar antenna. It can also accommodate the shape of the lug 140, optimizing stacking space and avoiding any impact on appearance. If the overall length of the helical antenna 160 and the planar antenna are the same, the helical antenna 160 has a longer effective antenna length than the planar antenna, enabling it to radiate antenna signals over a wider frequency range and making it easier to set the radiation frequency as needed.

[0030] Please see Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a second structure of the earphone provided in an embodiment of this application. The earphone head 120 has a sound-emitting surface, a sound-emitting hole passing through the sound-emitting surface, and the ear stem 140 can be arranged in a direction parallel to the sound-emitting surface, so that the earphone head 120 is placed in the user's ear. The ear stem 140 is arranged approximately parallel to the user's face for easy wearing.

[0031] The helical antenna 160 has a helical structure and an axis L1. The earpiece stem 140 includes a first end 142 connected to the earphone head 120 and a second end 144 away from the earphone head 120. The first end 142 and the second end 144 are positioned opposite each other, and the axis L1 of the helical antenna 160 extends from the first end 142 towards the second end 144. The earpiece stem 140 can be rod-shaped, with a length direction along the axis. That is, the helical antenna 160 extends helically along the length direction of the earpiece stem 140. The helical antenna 160 can be conveniently installed within the earpiece stem 140 due to its shape. The axial direction of the helical antenna 160 can be the same as the length direction of the earpiece stem 140. It should be noted that having the same axial direction as the earpiece stem 140 means that the angle between the axis of the helical antenna 160 and the axis of the earpiece stem 140 is between 0 degrees and 45 degrees.

[0032] Optionally, the axial direction of the helical antenna 160 can be approximately parallel or parallel to the axial direction of the lug 140, that is, the angle between the axis of the helical antenna 160 and the axis of the lug 140 is 0 degrees or close to 0 degrees. The axis of the helical antenna 160 and the axis of the lug 140 can also coincide, which facilitates the setting of the helical antenna 160 according to the shape of the lug 140.

[0033] It should be noted that in some other embodiments, the axis of the helical antenna may be perpendicular to the axis of the ear stem, or the angle between the axis of the helical antenna and the axis of the ear stem may be between 45 degrees and 90 degrees.

[0034] Please see Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a third structure of the earphone provided in this application embodiment. The earphone 100 also includes a circuit board 180 disposed within the ear stem 140. The circuit board 180 is plate-shaped or strip-shaped, and its length direction extends from the first end 142 to the second end 144. That is, the long side of the circuit board 180 is arranged along the length direction of the ear stem 140. The length direction of the circuit board 180 is approximately the same as the length direction of the ear stem 140, and the circuit board 180 can make full use of the space within the ear stem 140.

[0035] It should be noted that the fact that the length direction of the circuit board 180 is approximately the same as the length direction of the ear stem 140 can be understood as the angle between the axis of the circuit board 180 and the axis of the ear stem 140 being between 0 degrees and 45 degrees. Of course, in some other embodiments, the angle between the axis of the circuit board and the axis of the ear stem can be between 45 degrees and 90 degrees.

[0036] Please combine Figure 4 , Figure 4 for Figure 3 The diagram shows the structure of the circuit board and helical antenna in the headphones. The helical antenna 160 can be mounted on the circuit board 180. Optionally, the helical antenna 160 can be located at the end of the circuit board 180 away from the headphone head 120. It is understood that an electroacoustic transducer can be housed within the headphone head 120, and the antenna signal of the helical antenna 160 will interfere with the audio signal of the transducer. Therefore, the helical antenna 160 is positioned at the end of the circuit board 180 away from the headphone head 120, i.e., as far away from the electroacoustic transducer as possible. Additionally, an audio circuit can be housed on the circuit board 180. The antenna signal of the helical antenna 160 will interfere with the audio signal of the audio circuit. Therefore, the audio circuit can be located within the headphone head 120, or at the end of the ear stem 140 near the headphone head 120. The helical antenna 160 is then positioned at the end of the circuit board 180 away from the headphone head 120, i.e., as far away from the audio circuit as possible. Optionally, the helical antenna 160 can also be positioned at the end of the circuit board 180 facing the headphone head 120, as needed.

[0037] Circuit board 180 includes a second circuit board 184 and a first circuit board 182 that carries the helical antenna 160. The second circuit board 184 is used to set the main circuit of the earphone 100. The width of the first circuit board 182 is the same as the width of the second circuit board 184, that is, the first circuit board 182 carrying the helical antenna 160 is the end of circuit board 180. The width of the first circuit board 182 can also be smaller than the width of the second circuit board 184 to accommodate the shape of the end of the ear stem 140 away from the earphone head 120. The width of the first circuit board 182 can also be much smaller than the width of the second circuit board 184, so that the first circuit board 182 can be inserted into the hollow area in the middle of the helical antenna 160 to support the helical antenna 160.

[0038] The helical antenna may also be omitted from the circuit board. For details, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 5 and Figure 6 , Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a fourth structure of the earphone provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 6 for Figure 5 The diagram shows a schematic of the circuit board and helical antenna in the earphone. The helical antenna 160 is positioned on the side of the circuit board 180 facing away from the earphone head 120; that is, the circuit board 180 is located between the helical antenna 160 and the earphone head 120. One end of the helical antenna 160 is connected to the circuit board 180, thereby electrically connecting to the radio frequency circuitry on the circuit board 180. By not placing the helical antenna 160 on the circuit board 180, the isolation between it and the circuitry on the circuit board 180 is improved, reducing interference from the helical antenna 160 to the circuitry on the circuit board 180, and vice versa. Of course, the helical antenna 160 can also be positioned on the side of the circuit board 180 facing the earphone head 120, depending on the requirements.

[0039] It should be noted that the helical antenna is not mounted on the circuit board; other carrier structures can also be used for the helical antenna. For an example, please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the helical antenna and support plate provided in an embodiment of this application. The earphone 100 also includes a support portion 190. The helical antenna 160 has a hollow region, and the support portion 190 is disposed in the hollow region to support the helical antenna 160. The support portion 190 can be made of a non-conductive material with low hardness, such as plastic. The support portion 190 can be fixedly connected to the circuit board 180, such as by heat fusion, bonding, snap-fit, or screwing. In some other embodiments, the support portion 190 may not be fixedly connected to the circuit board 180, but may be fixedly connected to the housing of the ear stem 140.

[0040] The helical antenna can be mounted on other carriers. For an example, please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the helical antenna and the carrier plate provided in an embodiment of this application. The earphone 100 also includes a carrier plate 170, on which the helical antenna 160 is disposed, and the carrier plate 170 is used to support the helical antenna 160. The carrier plate 170 can be fixedly connected to the circuit board 180, such as by bonding, snapping, or screwing the carrier plate 170 to the circuit board 180. In some other embodiments, the carrier plate 170 may not be fixedly connected to the circuit board 180, but rather fixedly connected to the housing of the ear stem.

[0041] Helical antennas can also be installed in other ways. For examples, please refer to... Figure 9 , Figure 9This is a schematic diagram of the circuit board and helical antenna in the earphone provided in an embodiment of this application. The helical antenna 160 may be partially or completely arranged around the circuit board 180. The helical antenna 160 has a receiving space in the middle, and the circuit board 180 can be disposed in the receiving space. The shape of the helical antenna 160 can be conformal to the ear stem. For example, the earphone stem can be cylindrical, and the helical antenna 160 is also cylindrical. The helical antenna 160 is adjacent to or adjacent to the housing of the ear stem, and the circuit board 180 can be disposed in the receiving space in the middle of the helical antenna 160, making full use of the space in the middle of the helical antenna 160 and utilizing the space utilization rate within the ear stem.

[0042] The circuit board 180 may be partially located within the receiving space in the middle of the helical antenna 160. Exemplarily, the circuit board 180 includes a main circuit board 181 and an auxiliary circuit board 183, with the main circuit board 181 located outside the helical antenna 160 and the auxiliary circuit board 183 at least partially located inside the helical antenna 160. Optionally, the width of the auxiliary circuit board 183 may be smaller than the width of the main circuit board 181, so that the auxiliary circuit board 183 can be disposed within the helical antenna 160. In some other embodiments, the circuit board may also be entirely located within the receiving space in the middle of the helical antenna; for example, the circuit board may only include the auxiliary circuit board as described in the above embodiments.

[0043] Optionally, the circuit board 180 can extend through the helical antenna 160, or the circuit board 180 can extend from one end of the helical antenna 160 to the other end, making full use of the accommodating space in the helical antenna 160. Of course, as needed, the circuit board can also be accommodated in only part of the accommodating space of the helical antenna, such as the circuit board extending from one end of the helical antenna to the middle of the helical antenna, avoiding mutual interference between the other end of the helical antenna and the circuits on the circuit board.

[0044] Understandably, components on a circuit board can be strategically placed as needed. For example, components that significantly affect the helical antenna can be placed in areas far from the antenna, while components that have little or no impact can be placed closer to it. Furthermore, since the radio frequency signal transmitted by the helical antenna is directional, components that significantly affect the antenna should not be placed in the direction of the transmitted signal, thereby reducing the influence of the helical antenna on components on the circuit board, and vice versa.

[0045] The helical antenna and circuit board can also have other mounting methods; for example, please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 10 , Figure 10This is another structural schematic diagram of the circuit board and helical antenna in the earphone provided in this application embodiment. The circuit board 180 has a mounting hole 185, and the helical antenna 160 can be disposed within the mounting hole 185. For example, the circuit board 180 has a through hole in the middle, which serves as the mounting hole 185, and the helical antenna 160 is disposed within the mounting hole 185, that is, the circuit board 180 is disposed around the helical antenna 160. As another example, the side of the circuit board has a groove serving as a mounting hole, and the helical antenna is disposed within this mounting hole, that is, the circuit board portion is disposed around the helical antenna.

[0046] At least one end of the helical antenna 160 is connected to the circuit board 180. Specifically, this connection can be physical, meaning the circuit board 180 provides physical support for the helical antenna 160. For example, the helical antenna 160 can be bonded, snap-fitted, or soldered to the circuit board 180. Alternatively, the connection can be electrical, meaning the circuitry on the circuit board 180 is electrically connected to the helical antenna 160, and the helical antenna 160 can transmit and receive radio frequency signals. Of course, the connection can also include both physical and fixed connections, such as the helical antenna 160 being soldered onto the circuit board 180 and electrically connected to the circuitry on the circuit board 180. Furthermore, the helical antenna 160 can be both fixedly connected and electrically connected to the circuit board 180, for example, by snap-fitting or other methods of fixing, and electrically connected by wires or soldering to the circuit board's pads.

[0047] See another example. Figure 11 , Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a fifth type of headphone structure provided in this application embodiment. The headphone stem 140 includes a housing 148, to which a helical antenna 160 can be fixed. The housing 148 of the ear stem 140 provides physical support for the helical antenna 160. For example, one end of the helical antenna 160 is snapped or bonded to the housing 148. By providing physical support for the helical antenna 160 through the housing 148, the helical antenna 160 may not require physical support from a circuit board, allowing for more flexible placement within the ear stem 140. The helical antenna 160 can be electrically connected to the circuit board via wires, reducing interference from circuits on the circuit board to the helical antenna 160, and simultaneously reducing interference from the helical antenna 160 to circuits on the circuit board.

[0048] The housing 148 may also be provided with a support structure to support the helical antenna 160. For example, the housing 148 has a receiving groove 1482 on its inner side facing the helical antenna 160, and the helical antenna 160 is at least partially disposed within the receiving groove 1482. The receiving groove 1482 can effectively accommodate and fix the helical antenna 160. It is understood that the thickness of the portion of the housing forming the receiving groove 1482 can be less than that of the other portions of the housing, accommodating the helical antenna 160 within a limited space. The receiving groove can be a recess or a helical groove, and the helical groove can match the helical antenna. Of course, the inner side of the housing can also support the helical antenna through other structures. For example, limiting members can be provided on both sides of the helical antenna to limit and fix the helical antenna.

[0049] Please combine Figure 12 , Figure 12 for Figure 5 The diagram shows another structural schematic of the circuit board and helical antenna in the earphone. The circuit board 180 has a communication chip 186 that controls the helical antenna 160. The communication chip 186 is located at the end of the circuit board 180 facing the helical antenna 160 and is electrically connected to the helical antenna 160 to achieve wireless communication with external devices. For example, the communication chip 186 is a Bluetooth chip, which wirelessly connects to a mobile phone via the helical antenna 160 to receive control commands and / or audio information from the mobile phone. The circuitry within the earphone 100 performs different functions based on the control commands and / or audio information. For example, the earphone 100 can perform functions such as audio playback or voice calls.

[0050] The communication chip 186 and the helical antenna 160 are electrically connected via a microstrip line. Positioning the communication chip 186 close to the helical antenna 160 can reduce the length of the microstrip line, thereby reducing the RF power loss of the microstrip line.

[0051] Please combine Figure 13 , Figure 13 for Figure 12 The diagram shows the connection between the communication chip and the helical antenna. Optionally, the circuit board 180 is provided with a communication chip 186 for controlling the helical antenna 160, and a bandpass filter 188 and / or a Π-shaped matching circuit 189 are provided between the communication chip 186 and the helical antenna 160.

[0052] In addition to the microstrip line connection, there is a bandpass filter 188 and / or a Π-shaped matching circuit 189 between the RF port of the communication chip 186 and the helical antenna 160. That is, a bandpass filter 188 and / or a Π-shaped matching circuit 189 are provided between the communication chip 186 and the helical antenna 160. The bandpass filter 188 and the Π-shaped matching circuit 189 are used to adjust the output impedance of the communication chip 186 and the input impedance of the helical antenna 160.

[0053] It should be noted that the presence of the support 190 and the earphone 100 housing will cause a slight frequency shift in the center resonant frequency of the helical antenna 160. However, this can be corrected by impedance matching. For example, the bandpass filter 188 and / or the Π-shaped matching circuit 189 can be adjusted to meet the requirements for the center resonant frequency.

[0054] It is understood that the structure of the communication chip in this embodiment can be applied to other embodiments with circuit boards.

[0055] The circuit board can be a multilayer board. The helical antenna is mounted on the outer surface of the circuit board, which has pads or connection ports for electrical connection with the helical antenna. The radio frequency (RF) circuitry that works with the helical antenna can be located on the outer surface of the circuit board or on an intermediate layer. If the RF circuitry is located on an intermediate layer, the helical antenna can be electrically connected to the RF circuitry through wires in vias on the circuit board. Because the helical antenna has strong radiation performance, components on the circuit board that are easily interfered with by the helical antenna can be located at the end of the circuit board away from the helical antenna or on the other side of the circuit board facing away from the helical antenna.

[0056] The axis of the helical antenna can be parallel to the axis of the circuit board. The first connection terminal of the helical antenna is electrically connected to the pad or the connection port can be set on the center line of the circuit board, which is the center line of the width of the circuit board.

[0057] The headphones also contain a battery, which can be placed inside the earbud head or the ear stem as needed. The circuit board can also include charging circuitry connected to the battery.

[0058] Please combine Figure 14 and Figure 15 , Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a helical antenna provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 15 for Figure 14The diagram shows an enlarged view of part A of the helical antenna. The helical antenna 160 is formed by helically winding a conductor 162, which can be a metal conductor or a conductor of other materials. The conductor 162 includes a main body 164 and a first connecting end 166. The main body 164 is electrically connected to the circuit board 180 through the first connecting end 166. The helical winding of the main body 164 forms the main body of the antenna. The first connecting end 166 is used for soldering to an interface on the circuit board 180. The cross-sectional area of ​​the first connecting end 166 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the main body 164. The cross-sectional area of ​​the first connecting end 166 gradually decreases along the direction from the main body 164 toward the circuit board 180. For example, the first connecting end 166 can be a conical, horn-shaped, or trapezoidal structure. The gradual change in the cross-sectional area of ​​the first connecting end 166 provides a smooth transition, reducing the likelihood of large reflections and facilitating impedance matching with the feed port impedance of the RF circuit on the circuit board 180.

[0059] It should be noted that the structure of the helical antenna in this embodiment can be applied to the helical antenna in any of the above embodiments, and will not be described again here.

[0060] The helical antenna 160 is named for its helical geometry. It can be composed of one or more conductors 162 wound in a helical shape, resembling an ordinary spring in appearance. The inductance of the helical conductor 162 in the helical antenna 160 can offset the inherent capacitive reactance of a short electric antenna (also known as a small electric antenna), and it has a relatively high radiation resistance, facilitating matching.

[0061] The spiral of the helical antenna 160 also has a direction of rotation. The direction of rotation of the helical antenna 160 can be set to left-hand or right-hand as needed. This application embodiment does not limit the direction of rotation of the helical antenna 160.

[0062] The helical antenna 160 transmits an antenna signal with a first wavelength, and the helix diameter of the helical antenna 160 is smaller than the first wavelength. The helix diameter of the helical antenna 160 can be set according to the first wavelength of the antenna signal it needs to transmit. For example, the first wavelength of the antenna signal that the headphones need to transmit can be obtained, and then a helical antenna with a corresponding helix diameter can be selected according to the first wavelength.

[0063] The helical antenna 160 in this embodiment can operate in normal mode, meaning it can be a normal-mode helical antenna. The electromagnetic energy radiated by the normal-mode helical antenna is mainly concentrated in the direction perpendicular to the axis of the helical antenna 160, and the radiation field shape is similar to that of a half-wave dipole antenna. In this case, the helical diameter of the helical antenna 160 is much smaller than the first wavelength (which can also be understood as the operating wavelength of the helical antenna 160). The field shape of the normal-mode helical antenna 160 resembles a donut with a concave axial direction, such as... Figure 16As shown, this will not affect the components on the side of the helical antenna 160 facing the headphone head 120. The helix diameter of the helical antenna 160 is much smaller than the operating wavelength, such as one-fifth, one-eighth, or one-tenth of the operating wavelength.

[0064] The near-field region of the normal-mode helical antenna 160 can be concentrated inside the solenoid, further reducing the influence of electronic components on the circuit board 180 on the antenna and improving the radiation uniformity of the helical antenna 160. The normal-mode helical antenna 160 can effectively utilize the limited structural space inside the lug 140, achieving conformal integration with the lug 140's outer shell. Furthermore, the helical antenna 160 has a relatively short length. The electric field of the helical antenna 160 is not confined to the circuit board 180, resulting in a more stable and reliable operating mode.

[0065] Please see Figure 17 , Figure 17 This is a sixth structural schematic diagram of the earphone provided in this application embodiment. The end of the helical antenna 160 away from the earphone head 120 is adjacent to the end of the ear stem 140 away from the earphone head 120. By placing the end of the helical antenna 160 away from the earphone head 120 as close as possible to the end of the stem away from the earphone head 120, more space is saved for accommodating the circuit board 180, and the length of the ear stem 140 is minimized, making the earphone 100 more compact. In related technologies, the near-field region of other rod-shaped earphone antennas 100 is close to the circuit board 180 and other structural components, and errors during processing and assembly can easily affect the antenna's radiation characteristics. In this embodiment, the near-field region of the helical antenna 160 is far from the circuit board 180 and other structural components, which can improve the antenna's radiation consistency level.

[0066] It should be noted that the structure of the earphone head can be customized as needed. For example, the earphone head may include a locking part that fits into the user's ear canal, or the earphone head may not include a locking part, but rather the entire earphone head fits into the user's earlobe.

[0067] The overall structure of the headphones is compact, with numerous internal components. To achieve a small and lightweight appearance, it is necessary to optimize the conformal design of the internal components and make the most of the internal space. For example, the ear stem shell can be cylindrical or tubular, with the circuit board located in the middle of the ear stem.

[0068] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, the antenna of the earphone will be described below.

[0069] An antenna is a passive device used to transmit or receive electromagnetic waves. Antenna design involves controlling the distribution of high-frequency current to generate a desired electromagnetic field radiation distribution. The function of a transmitting antenna is to effectively convert the energy of the high-frequency current (or the guided wave in a waveguide system) from the transmitter in a radio frequency circuit into electromagnetic wave energy in space. The function of a receiving antenna is exactly the opposite; therefore, an antenna is essentially a transducer. Wireless headphones eliminate the need for cables because communication data propagates through the air using radio waves, and the antenna is the device used to perform this transmitting and receiving function.

[0070] In related technologies, wireless earphone antennas mostly use traditional monopole, PIFA, and other antennas, which are mostly planar in structure.

[0071] For an antenna to radiate electromagnetic waves into space, it needs a certain length. If a monopole antenna is used, its length is approximately one-quarter of the operating wavelength. For example, if the headset communication uses Bluetooth, which operates in the ISM band, the antenna length would be approximately 30mm.

[0072] The headphone antenna can be a Low Temperature Co-fired Ceramics (LTCC) antenna, which is a miniaturized antenna. LTCC technology involves casting ceramic powder into uniform and dense green ceramic tapes. The required circuit patterns are then created on these green ceramic tapes using processes such as laser drilling, micro-hole injection, and precision conductor paste printing. These green ceramic tapes are then stacked together, with the layers connected by vias. The internal and external electrodes can use metals with high conductivity, such as silver or gold. The entire assembly is sintered at 850 to 900 degrees Celsius to create a passive integrated component with a three-dimensional circuit network.

[0073] The principle of the meander line inside a low-temperature co-fired ceramic antenna: The meander line, also known as a serpentine line, effectively increases the surface current length and reduces the overall length of the antenna due to its unique meandering structure, making it an effective method for antenna miniaturization and a hot research topic. In each layer of the meander line structure, the current and electric field directions are opposite in the symmetrical parts along the x-direction, thus canceling out the radiation generated in the far field and having a small impact on the overall radiation field of the antenna. The current and electric field directions are the same in the meander line structure along the y-direction, which can be approximated as a short-circuit dipole and plays a major role in the overall radiation of the antenna. In the microwave band, the overlapping parts between the upper and lower meander line structures will produce a strong coupling effect. Coupling effects in devices are usually avoided, but if properly utilized, they can have a positive effect.

[0074] Headphone antennas can also be FPC antennas. An FPC antenna is essentially an antenna trace pulled out from a circuit board and made of other external metal. FPC antennas are easy to conform to, simple to manufacture, and come in various structural forms.

[0075] Headphone antennas can also be manufactured using Laser Direct Sculpting (LDS) technology. LDS antennas use a laser to etch antenna circuitry onto the surface of complex three-dimensional components, which are then injection molded from LDS resin. LDS antennas are highly efficient, offering exceptional flexibility for rapid product design changes. Headphone antennas can be engraved onto the headphone housing using LDS technology, allowing for more flexible design and maximizing headroom. LDS antennas also exhibit better consistency during production and assembly. The headphone's mainboard and antenna are located inside the housing. The antenna and noise-canceling microphone are located on the side of the mainboard furthest from the face. The PIFA antenna, engraved using LDS technology, has a more complete ground plane on the mainboard, reducing the absorption of electromagnetic waves by the head when wearing the headphones.

[0076] While monopole antennas, LTCC antennas, FPC antennas, and PIFA antennas etched using LDS technology can all enable wireless communication for headphones, these antennas are all planar structures with relatively long overall or axial lengths, requiring considerable space for installation. They are also very close to the headphone's circuit board, causing interference with components on the board and affecting both antenna performance and the performance of the components.

[0077] The earphone in this embodiment uses a helical antenna. The overall length or axial length of the helical antenna is relatively small, requiring less space for installation. It can be spaced apart from the circuit board inside the earphone, making it less susceptible to interference from components on the circuit board, and also less likely to affect the performance of those components. Furthermore, the helical antenna can operate in normal mode, meaning the electromagnetic energy radiated by the helical antenna is mainly concentrated in the direction perpendicular to its axis. The field shape of the normal mode helical antenna resembles a donut with a concave shape along its axis, resulting in minimal impact on the circuit board.

[0078] It is understood that the headphones in this embodiment can be used alone or paired to form a stereo headset, with one headset acting as the master and the other as the slave. The master headset connects to the slave headset wirelessly, such as via Bluetooth, to achieve true wireless separation of the left and right channels. The headphones in this embodiment can also be paired with other types of headphones.

[0079] This application also provides an earphone case for housing earphones. The earphone case can integrate a power bank. When the earphones are placed inside the case, the power bank can charge the earphones, thereby solving the problem of insufficient built-in battery capacity in the earphones. The earphone case both houses and protects the earphones and extends their usage time.

[0080] In the description of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more features. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0081] The above provides a detailed description of the headphones provided in the embodiments of this application. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The description of the above embodiments is only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core ideas of this application. At the same time, for those skilled in the art, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope based on the ideas of this application. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

Claims

1. An earphone, characterized in that, Includes the earphone head, ear stem, and circuit board; The earpiece is used to output sound wave signals; and The ear stem is connected to the earphone head. A helical antenna is disposed inside the ear stem. The helical antenna is used for wireless communication with external devices. The helical antenna is formed by a conductor spirally wound around itself. The conductor includes a main body and a first connecting end. The main body is electrically connected to the circuit board through the first connecting end. The cross-sectional area of ​​the first connecting end gradually decreases along the direction of the main body toward the circuit board, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the first connecting end is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the main body. The circuit board is provided with a pad or connection port that is electrically connected to the first connection terminal. The axis of the helical antenna is parallel to the axis of the circuit board, and the pad or connection port is located on the axis of the circuit board.

2. The earphone according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ear stem includes a first end connected to the earphone head and a second end away from the earphone head, the first end and the second end being disposed opposite to each other, and the axial direction of the helical antenna being from the first end toward the second end.

3. The earphone according to claim 2, characterized in that, The earphone also includes a circuit board disposed within the ear stem, the length direction of the circuit board extending from the first end toward the second end.

4. The earphone according to claim 3, characterized in that, The spiral antenna is disposed on the circuit board, and the spiral antenna is located at the end of the circuit board away from the earphone head or at the end of the circuit board facing the earphone head.

5. The earphone according to claim 3, characterized in that, The circuit board is disposed between the helical antenna and the earphone head, and one end of the helical antenna is electrically connected to the circuit board.

6. The earphone according to claim 3, characterized in that, The circuit board is equipped with a communication chip for controlling the helical antenna, and the communication chip is located at the end of the circuit board facing the helical antenna.

7. The earphone according to claim 3, characterized in that, The circuit board is equipped with a communication chip for controlling the helical antenna, and a bandpass filter and / or a Π-shaped matching circuit are provided between the communication chip and the helical antenna.

8. The earphone according to claim 3, characterized in that, The earphone also includes a carrier plate, the spiral antenna is mounted on the carrier plate, and the carrier plate is fixedly connected to the circuit board.

9. The earphone according to claim 3, characterized in that, The helical antenna is partially or entirely arranged around the circuit board.

10. The earphone according to claim 2, characterized in that, The axis of the ear stem is parallel to or coincides with the axis of the helical antenna.

11. The earphone according to claim 1, characterized in that, The earphone stem includes a housing, and the helical antenna is fixed to the housing.

12. The earphone according to claim 11, characterized in that, The housing has a receiving groove on the inner side facing the helical antenna, and the helical antenna is at least partially disposed within the receiving groove.

13. The earphone according to claim 1, characterized in that, The antenna signal transmitted by the helical antenna has a first wavelength, and the helical diameter of the helical antenna is smaller than the first wavelength.

14. The earphone according to claim 1, characterized in that, The spiral antenna has a hollow region, and the earphone also includes a support portion disposed within the hollow region to support the spiral antenna.

15. The earphone according to claim 1, characterized in that, The earphone also includes a carrier plate, and the helical antenna is disposed on the carrier plate.

16. The headphones according to any one of claims 1-15, characterized in that, The spiral antenna is a normal-mode spiral antenna.

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