Raised feature on earplug body

Abstract

Aspects describe a raised feature for assisting a user in removing an in-ear audio output device from a housing. Aspects describe a device comprising: an earbud housing shaped to fit in a concha of an ear of a wearer of the device; and a main body coupled to the earplug housing, the main body extending away from the wearer's ear canal and toward the outside of the ear when the device is worn, the main body including a top cover including a flat outer portion and a raised feature, the top cover including a convex portion extending away from the ear canal and toward the outside of the ear when the device is worn. The raised feature is proximate the conchae of the wearer and external to the ear.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various aspects of the present disclosure describe a raised feature on the outer surface of the earplug body. The feature allows the user to more easily remove the earplug from the earplug housing. The placement of the feature does not change the existing design features of the device, thereby providing comfort, fit, and portability to the user. Background Art

[0002] In-ear devices are small and designed to be comfortable and portable. Due to the size of the device and the accompanying housing, and the smooth surface of the in-ear device, it may be difficult for a user to grasp or pinch the device to remove it from the housing. It is desirable to improve the user's ability to quickly and efficiently remove an in-ear device from a housing. Summary of the invention

[0003] Various aspects provide an in-ear audio output device that includes a raised feature that does not contact human tissue and facilitates removal of the device from a protective housing and / or a charging housing. Due to the location of the feature, it does not negatively impact the fit and comfort of the device in the wearer's ear. In addition, the feature provides a surface for better adhesion to the device, making it easier to remove the device from its housing.

[0004] Various aspects provide an in-ear audio output device comprising: an earbud housing shaped to fit in the concha of an ear of a wearer of the device; and a body coupled to the earbud housing; the body extending away from the wearer's ear canal and toward the outside of the ear when the device is worn; the body comprising a top cover including a flat exterior portion and a raised feature that is proximate the wearer's concha and outside of the ear when the device is worn.

[0005] In various aspects, the raised feature comprises a crescent-shaped feature. In various aspects, the crescent-shaped feature comprises a first point on a first end of the crescent-shaped feature, a second point on a second end of the crescent-shaped feature, and an intermediate portion between the first point and the second point, and the intermediate portion extends further from the flat outer portion of the body than the first point and the second point.

[0006] In various aspects, at least a portion of the raised features have a height of at least 0.6 mm from the flat outer portion. In various aspects, the raised features have a height of less than or equal to 1 mm from the flat outer portion.

[0007] In various aspects, the bottom portion of the raised feature is contoured to conform to the human figure. In various aspects, the top cover comprises a decorative cover.

[0008] Various aspects provide an in-ear audio output device, the in-ear audio output device comprising: an earbud housing shaped to fit in the concha of an ear of a wearer of the device; and a body coupled to the earbud housing, the body extending away from the wearer's ear canal and toward the outside of the ear when the device is worn, the body comprising a top cover including a flat outer portion and a raised feature; and a charging case including a case bottom, a case top, and a hinge configured to allow the case top to pivot open and closed relative to the case bottom, wherein the raised feature protrudes from the case bottom when the in-ear audio output device is placed in the charging case.

[0009] In various aspects, when the in-ear audio output device is placed in the charging case, the case top pivots to a closed position relative to the case bottom and surrounds the raised feature.

[0010] In various aspects, when the device is worn, the raised feature is proximal to the wearer's cymba concha and external to the ear. In various aspects, the raised feature comprises a crescent-shaped feature.

[0011] In various aspects, the crescent-shaped feature includes a first point on a first end of the crescent-shaped feature, a second point on a second end of the crescent-shaped feature, and an intermediate portion between the first point and the second point; and the intermediate portion extends further from the flat outer portion of the body than the first point and the second point.

[0012] In various aspects, at least a portion of the raised features have a height of at least 0.6 mm from the flat outer portion. In various aspects, the raised features have a height of less than or equal to 1 mm from the flat outer portion.

[0013] In various aspects, a bottom portion of the raised feature is contoured to conform to the human figure. In various aspects, the top cover comprises a decorative cover.

[0014] Various aspects provide an in-ear audio output device comprising: an earbud housing shaped to fit in the concha of an ear of a wearer of the device; and a body coupled to the earbud housing, the body extending away from the wearer's ear canal and toward the outside of the ear when the device is worn, the body comprising a top cover including a flat outer portion and a curved raised feature that is proximate the wearer's concha and outside of the ear along a top outer edge of the top cover when the device is worn.

[0015] In various aspects, the curved raised feature comprises a crescent-shaped feature. In various aspects, the crescent-shaped feature comprises a first point on a first end of the crescent-shaped feature, a second point on a second end of the crescent-shaped feature, and an intermediate portion between the first point and the second point; and the intermediate portion extends further from the flat outer portion of the body than the first point and the second point.

[0016] In various aspects, the height of the curved raised features from the flat outer portion is less than or equal to 1 mm.

[0017] All examples and features mentioned herein can be combined in any technically possible way.Other features, objects and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the following drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Figure 1 is a view of the lateral surface of the human ear.

[0019] Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of an in-ear audio output device including an earbud housing positioned in a wearer's ear.

[0020] Figure 3 is a side perspective view of an in-ear audio output device including an earbud housing with an acoustic port and a stabilization band.

[0021] Figure 4 is a bottom perspective view of an in-ear audio output device including an earbud housing with an acoustic port and a stabilization band.

[0022] Figure 5 is a top view of a charging case in an open position for a pair of in-ear audio output devices.

[0023] Figure 6 is a side view of a charging case in an open position including an in-ear audio output device.

[0024] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of an in-ear audio output device disposed in a charging housing.

[0025] Figure 8 is a rear perspective view of an in-ear audio output device including raised features on an exterior portion of a body according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0026] Fig. 9 is a side perspective view of an in-ear audio output device including raised features according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0027] Fig.10is a bottom perspective view of an in-ear audio output device including raised features according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0028] Fig.11 is a top view of a charging case in an open position for a pair of in-ear audio output devices including raised features according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0029] Fig.12 is a side view of a charging case in an open position including an in-ear audio output device including a raised feature according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0030] Fig.13 is a cross-sectional view of an in-ear audio output device including raised features disposed in a charging case in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] In-ear audio output devices have become a common part and convenience of everyday life. Some examples of such devices include audio earphones, hearing aids, hearing aid headphones, noise masking earplugs, and ANR headphones. In-ear devices allow for hands-free listening, so the user can listen to audio and / or block out sounds while doing other things. While working, people use in-ear devices to help focus and help avoid distracting others. Finally, in-ear devices are convenient when transporting or exercising because of their portability, wireless connectivity, and fit in the user's ear.

[0032] Given the small size and desired portability of in-ear devices, in-ear devices are typically stored in compact protective cases (e.g., carrying cases and / or charging cases) when not in use. It is desirable for users to be able to easily and efficiently remove an in-ear device from its case.

[0033] Figure 1 The side surface of a human right ear 100 is shown with some features identified. There are many different ear sizes and geometries, and include Figure 1 The in-ear audio output device described herein includes a body 202 coupled to an earplug housing 204. The body is configured to be located outside a human ear, and the housing of the device is shaped to fit in the concha cavity.

[0034] Figures 2 to 4 An in-ear audio output device is shown. Figure 2 is a rear perspective view 200 of the device positioned in a wearer's ear. Figure 3 is a side perspective view 300 of the device. Figure 4 is a bottom perspective view 400 of the device.

[0035] The device includes a body 202 , an earplug housing 204 , a nozzle 206 , and a sealing structure 208 .

[0036] The body 202 is coupled to an outer surface of an earplug housing 204 that extends away from the wearer's ear canal. Figure 2 As illustrated, the shape of the body 202 is similar to a rectangular pill, and when the device is worn, the body is located on the outside of the wearer's ear. When the device is worn, the body 202 is close to the concha and against the outside of the wearer's ear. In some cases, the body 202 is against the wearer's face to help keep the device in place. The outer surface of the body 202 is called the top cover. The top cover is the part of the body 202 that is visible to the outside world.

[0037] The top cover is a flat or substantially flat decorative cover. The decorative top cover covers a non-decorative functional board. In various aspects, the functional board covers a printed circuit board. The top cover provides a smooth, aesthetically pleasing exterior body while covering the functional board.

[0038] In various aspects, the earbud housing 204 is shaped to extend toward and fit within the cavum concha. The earbud housing 204 defines an acoustic cavity that houses the acoustic driver and other electronics of the device.

[0039] The nozzle 206 extends from the earplug housing 204 toward the sealing structure 208. In various aspects, the earplug housing 204 extends into the nozzle 206, or in other words, forms a part of the nozzle 206. The nozzle 206 includes an acoustic passage for transmitting sound waves to the ear canal of the wearer. In various aspects, the nozzle 206 has a planar end with a substantially oval opening.

[0040] The sealing structure 208 forms a seal with the ear canal of a typical wearer. The sealing structure 208 is substantially spherical dome-shaped. The sealing structure 208 extends from the planar end of the nozzle 206 and folds back toward the outer ear of the wearer.

[0041] In various aspects, such as Figure 2 , when the device is inserted into the wearer's ear, the resistance port 210 is aligned with the intertragic notch of the ear. When the device is positioned in the wearer's ear, the port 226 for the feedforward microphone may be located outside the wearer's ear. The device may include other ports not illustrated, such as, for example, a high flow port.

[0042] In various aspects, the in-ear audio output device includes a stabilizing band 216. The stabilizing band may include an attachment feature 218 for attaching the stabilizing band 216 to the device and more specifically to the earbud housing 204. In various aspects, the stabilizing band 216 is removably attached to the earbud housing 204. In other words, the attachment feature 218 allows the stabilizing band 216 to be removed and added to the audio device. In other aspects, the attachment feature 218 is integrally formed with the earbud housing 204.

[0043] Figure 5 is a top view 500 of the device in the housing in an open position. Figure 6 is a side view 600 of the device in the housing in an open position. Figure 7 is a cross section 700 of the device in the housing in the open position.

[0044] The housing has a top portion 502, a bottom portion 504, and a hinge 506. The top portion 502 pivots relative to the base portion 504 via the hinge 506 to open and close the housing. As shown in the top view 500, the device is tightly constrained in the housing. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As illustrated, when the housing is in the open position, a small portion of the earbud body 202 extends from the top plane 508 of the bottom portion 504 of the housing. To remove the device from the housing, the user grasps the body 202 and housing 204 and pulls the device out of the housing. In the example, each of the user's thumb and index finger grasps or presses on the body 202 and housing 204 of the device. Given the smooth surfaces of the body 202 and housing 204 and the position of the device in the housing, the user may not be able to apply enough force to grasp the device and remove it from the housing. In some cases, even if the user can successfully remove the device from the housing, there is an opportunity for the user to interact with the device more comfortably and efficiently.

[0045] Thus, various aspects provide features that assist a user in more easily removing an in-ear audio output device from its housing. The features do not interfere with how the device fits in the user's ear and do not create additional contact points with the user's body. Thus, the placement of the features enhances the user's ability to remove the device from the housing without compromising fit and comfort.

[0046] Figures 8 to 10 An in-ear audio output device including raised features according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 8 is a rear perspective view 800 of the device positioned in a wearer's ear. Fig. 9 is a side perspective view 900 of the device. Fig.10 is a bottom perspective view 1000 of the device.

[0047] In various aspects, the body 202 includes a flat or substantially flat portion referred to as a top cover (e.g., as shown in reference Figures 2 to 7 The device includes a convex feature 802 and a raised feature 802. The raised feature is positioned on the top outer surface of the body 202. When the device is worn, the feature 802 does not contact the human skin. In various aspects, the height of the raised feature 802 is between 0.6 mm and 1 mm measured from the outer surface of the body 202. The raised feature 802 may have a non-constant height.

[0048] In various aspects, the raised feature 802 is crescent-shaped. The crescent has a first point 802a on the first end and a second point 802b on the second end and a middle portion 804 between the first point 802a and the second point 802b. In some designs, the middle portion 804 extends further from the body 202 than the first points 802a and 802b. In an example, the height of the middle portion 804 from the surface of the body 202 is approximately 0.6mm to 1mm. The first point 802a and the second point 802b taper from the middle portion 804. The bottom portion 806 of the feature (when the device is positioned in the ear) has a profile that conforms to the shape of the finger with the feature 802 and tapers from the middle portion 804 to each of the points 802a and 802b.

[0049] Fig.11 is a top view 1100 of a device including raised features 802 in a housing in an open position. Fig.12 is a side view 1200 of a device including raised feature 802 in a housing in an open position. Fig.13 is a cross section 1300 of the device including the raised feature 802 in the housing in an open position. Figures 11 to 13 Each of the examples illustrates the minimum size and subtlety of the raised feature 802. For example, Fig.11 As illustrated, a device including a raised feature is substantially the same size as a device not including the feature when tightly constrained. Thus, the raised feature does not compromise the housing design.

[0050] like Fig.12 and Fig.13 As shown, when the housing is open, the raised feature 802 slightly protrudes the top plane 508 of the bottom portion 504 of the housing. When the housing is opened, the raised feature 802 is exposed. When the device is in the housing, the orientation of the raised feature 802 on the body 202 allows the user to use the raised feature 802 as a handle to help remove the device from the housing. Without the feature, the user can apply a force of 1N to 1.5N to remove the device. Using the feature 802, the user can apply approximately 4 to 6 times the force (e.g., 5N to 10N) to remove the device from the housing.

[0051] Figures 8 to 13 Various aspects of raised features on the outer surface of the body of the device are illustrated, which do not contact human tissue and provide a gripping surface for the user to more easily remove the device from the housing. The features and aspects of the features can be applied to Figures 2 to 4 The device illustrated in FIG. 1 is compared to a device having a different design.

[0052] Although the raised shape 802 is described and illustrated as a crescent, it can be any raised feature that provides a surface for the user to grip the device. When gripped, the raised feature provides a hint for the user's finger to remain in contact with the otherwise smooth body of the device and not slip off the device. The feature is positioned in one of several locations on the in-ear audio output device that does not contact human skin. The dimensions of the design remain largely unchanged. The ergonomics of the device are not affected. Finally, the housing of the device can remain the same. The size, orientation, and properties of the feature allow the device and housing to maintain existing competitive advantages associated with size, fit, comfort, and design.

[0053] Many uses and departures from the specific apparatus and techniques shown herein may be made without departing from the inventive concept. Therefore, the invention should be construed as embracing every novel feature and novel combination of features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. An in-ear audio output device, the in-ear audio output device comprising: an earbud housing shaped to fit in the concha of an ear of a wearer of the device, and A body is coupled to the earplug housing, the body extending away from the wearer's ear canal and oriented outside the ear when the device is worn, the body including a top cover including a flat outer portion and a raised feature, the raised feature being proximate to the wearer's cymba concha and outside the ear when the device is worn.

2. The in-ear audio output device of claim 1, wherein the raised feature comprises a crescent-shaped feature.

3. The in-ear audio output device according to claim 2, wherein: The crescent-shaped feature includes a first point on a first end of the crescent-shaped feature, a second point on a second end of the crescent-shaped feature, and an intermediate portion between the first point and the second point; and The intermediate portion extends further from the flat outer portion of the body than the first point and the second point.

4. The in-ear audio output device of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the raised features have a height of at least 0.6 mm from the flat outer portion.

5. The in-ear audio output device of claim 1, wherein the height of the raised feature from the flat outer portion is less than or equal to 1 mm.

6. The in-ear audio output device of claim 1, wherein a bottom portion of the raised feature is contoured to conform to the shape of a human figure.

7. The in-ear audio output device of claim 1, wherein the top cover comprises a decorative cover.

8. A system, comprising: An in-ear audio output device, the in-ear audio output device comprising: an earbud housing shaped to fit in the concha of an ear of a wearer of the device, and a body coupled to the earbud housing, the body extending away from the wearer's ear canal and oriented outside of the ear when the device is worn, the body including a top cover including a flat exterior portion and a raised feature; and A charging case comprising a case bottom, a case top, and a hinge, wherein the hinge is configured to allow the case top to pivot open and closed relative to the case bottom, wherein the raised feature protrudes from the case bottom when the in-ear audio output device is placed in the charging case.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein when the in-ear audio output device is seated in the charging case, the case top pivots to a closed position relative to the case bottom and surrounds the raised feature.

10. The system of claim 8, wherein the raised feature is proximal to the wearer's cymba concha and external to the ear when the device is worn.

11. The system of claim 8, wherein the raised feature comprises a crescent-shaped feature.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein: The crescent-shaped feature includes a first point on a first end of the crescent-shaped feature, a second point on a second end of the crescent-shaped feature, and an intermediate portion between the first point and the second point; and The intermediate portion extends further from the flat outer portion of the body than the first point and the second point.

13. The system of claim 8, wherein at least a portion of the raised features have a height of at least 0.6 mm from the flat outer portion.

14. The system of claim 8, wherein the height of the raised features from the flat outer portion is less than or equal to 1 mm.

15. The system of claim 8, wherein a bottom portion of the raised feature is contoured to conform to the shape of a human figure.

16. The system of claim 8, wherein the top cover comprises a decorative cover.

17. An in-ear audio output device, the in-ear audio output device comprising: an earbud housing shaped to fit in the concha of an ear of a wearer of the device, and A body is connected to the earplug housing, and when the device is worn, the body extends away from the wearer's ear canal and toward the outside of the ear, and the body includes a top cover, and the top cover includes a flat outer portion and a curved raised feature portion. When the device is worn, the curved raised feature portion is close to the wearer's cymba concha and outside the ear along the top outer edge of the top cover.

18. The in-ear audio output device of claim 17, wherein the curved raised feature comprises a crescent-shaped feature.

19. The in-ear audio output device of claim 18, wherein: The crescent-shaped feature includes a first point on a first end of the crescent-shaped feature, a second point on a second end of the crescent-shaped feature, and an intermediate portion between the first point and the second point; and The intermediate portion extends further from the flat outer portion of the body than the first point and the second point.

20. The in-ear audio output device of claim 17, wherein the height of the curved raised features from the flat outer portion is less than or equal to 1 mm.

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