Acoustic output device

Abstract

An acoustic output device includes a sound emitting portion, a support, and a sensor. The sound-generating unit accommodates a sound-generating unit that generates sound. The support member places the sounding part near the ear at a position where the ear hole is not blocked. The sensor comprises at least one ultrasonic transducer located in the sound production part and is configured to emit a first ultrasonic signal to the outside of the sound production part through the at least one ultrasonic transducer, detect a second ultrasonic signal through the at least one ultrasonic transducer and determine the wearing state of the acoustic output device based on the detection.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of acoustics, and in particular to an acoustic output device. Background Art

[0002] In the current market, wearing detection sensors are widely used in products such as TWS (True Wireless Stereo) headphones. Typical applications are to automatically wake up the system when it is recognized that the headphones are worn by the user; and automatically enter standby mode when it is recognized that the user takes off the headphones, thereby reducing power consumption and extending usage time. At the same time, it saves users' operating steps and greatly improves the user experience.

[0003] At present, the mainstream wear detection sensors include photoelectric sensors, capacitive sensors, etc. When performing wear detection on open-type headphones, since open-type headphones do not have a fixed in-ear structure, there may be unstable wearing and inconsistent wearing positions. Traditional wear detection solutions cannot achieve ideal detection results. For example, the wear detection solution based on capacitive sensors is easily interfered with (such as by sweat). For another example, the wear detection solution based on photoelectric sensors will be affected by DC light in different wearing positions, or by low-frequency light signals during exercise.

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a device and method that can accurately identify the wearing condition of open-ear headphones. Summary of the invention

[0005] One of the embodiments of the present specification provides an acoustic output device. The acoustic output device includes a sound-emitting part, a support and a sensor. The sound-emitting part is configured to accommodate a sound-emitting unit that generates sound. The support is configured to place the sound-emitting part near the ear but not blocking the ear hole. The sensor includes at least one ultrasonic transducer located inside the sound-emitting part. The sensor is configured to transmit a first ultrasonic signal to the outside of the sound-emitting part through at least one ultrasonic transducer. The sensor is further configured to detect a second ultrasonic signal through at least one ultrasonic transducer and determine the wearing state of the acoustic output device based on the detection. The second ultrasonic signal includes the first ultrasonic signal or a reflection signal of the first ultrasonic signal. When the wearing state of the acoustic output device changes and causes the second ultrasonic signal detected by the sensor to change, the output state of the acoustic output device changes. An open-type (not blocking the ear hole) acoustic output device has a fixed in-ear structure, and its wearing position has poor stability and consistency. The acoustic output device of the embodiment of the present application detects its wearing condition by using an ultrasonic transducer. The ultrasonic sensor will not be interfered by substances such as sweat and rain, and can reduce the probability of misdetection of the wearing condition of the acoustic output device, and is more suitable for the wearing detection of open-type headphones.

[0006] In some embodiments, the sound-emitting portion includes an inner wall facing the ear, and at least one ultrasonic transducer is arranged on the inner wall. The ultrasonic transducer is arranged on the inner wall of the sound-emitting portion, thereby leaving enough installation space for the sound-emitting unit inside the sound-emitting portion. When the sound-emitting portion is worn, the inner wall faces the ear of the user, and the ultrasonic signal (for example, the first ultrasonic signal) emitted by the ultrasonic transducer can fall on the ear, making the wearing detection more accurate and sensitive.

[0007] In some embodiments, at least one ultrasonic transducer includes a vibrating sheet configured to generate a first ultrasonic signal. The frequency of the first ultrasonic signal is not less than 40 kHz. In some embodiments, the frequency of the first ultrasonic signal is not less than 150 kHz. By limiting the frequency of the first ultrasonic signal, various irregular wearing forms that may be present in non-in-ear acoustic output devices can be excluded. By increasing the frequency of the first ultrasonic signal, the directivity of the first ultrasonic signal can be enhanced, thereby reducing the probability of misdetection caused by other factors.

[0008] In some embodiments, the directivity of the first ultrasonic signal has an angle range of 5°-90°. The directivity of the first ultrasonic signal is enhanced, thereby reducing the probability of misdetection caused by other factors.

[0009] In some embodiments, an opening is provided on the inner wall, and the first ultrasonic signal propagates to the outside of the sound-emitting part through the opening. In some embodiments, the area range of the opening on the inner wall is 0.5 mm 2 -1cm 2 By adopting a high-frequency ultrasonic transducer, the opening on the inner wall does not need to be set to a large area, so that the transmission and reception of ultrasonic signals can be realized, and the assembly requirements of the ultrasonic transducer in the acoustic output device are reduced.

[0010] In some embodiments, the sound emitted by the sound-emitting unit is output to the outside of the sound-emitting part through the opening on the inner wall. By making the ultrasonic transducer and the sound-emitting unit share the opening, it is possible to avoid opening multiple holes on the limited inner wall area to protect the integrity of the acoustic output device. On the basis of not increasing the space occupied by the holes on the inner wall, the area of ​​the opening can be appropriately increased to ensure the output performance of the ultrasonic transducer and the sound-emitting unit.

[0011] In some embodiments, a sound outlet hole is provided on the inner side wall, and the sound emitted by the sound generating unit is guided to the outside of the sound generating part through the sound outlet hole. By making the ultrasonic transducer and the sound generating unit correspond to the opening and the sound outlet hole respectively, the selection of the installation position of the ultrasonic transducer can be made more flexible.

[0012] In some embodiments, at least one ultrasonic transducer is provided in a single piece, and the single ultrasonic transducer transmits a first ultrasonic signal to the outside of the sound-emitting part during the transmitting time period and detects a second ultrasonic signal during the receiving time period, and the second ultrasonic signal is a reflection signal of the first ultrasonic signal. By adopting an ultrasonic transducer with the function of transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals, the mass of the acoustic output device can be reduced, the requirement of the acoustic output device being lightweight can be met, the burden of the user wearing the device can be reduced, and the product cost can be reduced.

[0013] In some embodiments, at least one ultrasonic transducer is provided in a plurality of pieces, and a portion of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers transmits a first ultrasonic signal to the outside of the sound-emitting part. The other portion of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers detects a second ultrasonic signal, and the second ultrasonic signal is a reflection signal of the first ultrasonic signal. The plurality of ultrasonic transducers are all located inside the sound-emitting part. The ultrasonic transducer with a transmitting function and the ultrasonic transducer with a receiving function are separately provided, and there is no need to distinguish the transmitting time and the receiving time of the ultrasonic transducer, and the time for the ultrasonic transducer to transmit ultrasound can be set more flexibly in the time domain.

[0014] One of the embodiments of the present specification also provides an acoustic output device. The acoustic output device includes a sound-emitting part, an ear hook and a sensor. The sound-emitting part is configured to accommodate a sound-emitting unit that generates sound. One end of the ear hook is connected to the sound-emitting part and the sound-emitting part is placed near the ear but not blocking the ear hole, and the other end of the ear hook is connected to the target chamber body. When the acoustic output device is worn, the sound-emitting part and the target chamber body are respectively located on both sides of the auricle. The sensor includes a first ultrasonic transducer and a second ultrasonic transducer respectively located in the sound-emitting part and the target chamber body. The sensor is configured to transmit an ultrasonic signal to the other through one of the first ultrasonic transducer and the second ultrasonic transducer and to detect the ultrasonic signal through the other of the first ultrasonic transducer and the second ultrasonic transducer. The sensor is further configured to determine the wearing state of the acoustic output device based on the detection. When the wearing state of the acoustic output device changes, resulting in a change in the ultrasonic signal detected by the sensor, the output state of the acoustic output device changes. By using ultrasonic transducers on both sides of the auricle to detect the wearing condition, the wearing requirements of the acoustic output device are lower, and more wearing positions of the acoustic output device can be tolerated. The ultrasonic transducer has more stable signal transmission and better directionality, which makes the wearing detection more sensitive. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] The present application will be further described in the form of exemplary embodiments, which will be described in detail by way of the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are not restrictive, and in these embodiments, the same number represents the same structure, wherein:

[0016] Figure 1 is a module diagram of an acoustic output device according to some embodiments of this specification;

[0017] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an acoustic output device according to some embodiments of the present specification;

[0018] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a low-frequency ultrasonic transducer according to some embodiments of this specification;

[0019] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of an in-ear acoustic output device provided with a low-frequency ultrasonic transducer according to some embodiments of this specification;

[0020] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a non-in-ear acoustic output device provided with a low-frequency ultrasonic transducer according to some embodiments of this specification;

[0021] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a high-frequency ultrasonic transducer according to some embodiments of this specification;

[0022] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a non-in-ear acoustic output device provided with a high-frequency ultrasonic transducer according to some embodiments of this specification;

[0023] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of a non-in-ear acoustic output device provided with an ultrasonic transducer having a large directional angle according to some embodiments of this specification;

[0024] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of a non-in-ear acoustic output device provided with an ultrasonic transducer having a small directional angle according to some embodiments of the present specification;

[0025] Fig.10 is a schematic diagram of a non-in-ear acoustic output device provided with a single ultrasonic transducer according to some embodiments of this specification;

[0026] Fig.11 is a schematic diagram of a non-in-ear acoustic output device provided with multiple ultrasonic transducers according to some embodiments of this specification;

[0027] Fig.12 is a schematic diagram of an acoustic output device according to some embodiments of the present specification;

[0028] Fig.13A is a schematic diagram of wearing state detection of a non-in-ear acoustic output device according to some embodiments of this specification;

[0029] Fig. 13B is a schematic diagram of wearing status detection of a non-in-ear acoustic output device according to some embodiments of the present specification. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, the following is a brief introduction to the drawings required for use in the description of the embodiments. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some examples or embodiments of the present application. For ordinary technicians in this field, the present application can also be applied to other similar scenarios based on these drawings without creative work. Unless it is obvious from the language environment or otherwise explained, the same reference numerals in the figures represent the same structure or operation.

[0031] It should be understood that the "system", "device", "unit" and / or "module" used herein are a method for distinguishing different components, elements, parts, portions or assemblies at different levels. However, if other words can achieve the same purpose, the words can be replaced by other expressions.

[0032] As shown in this application and claims, unless the context clearly indicates an exception, the words "a", "an", "an" and / or "the" do not refer to the singular and may also include the plural. Generally speaking, the terms "comprises" and "includes" only indicate the inclusion of the steps and elements that have been clearly identified, and these steps and elements do not constitute an exclusive list. The method or device may also include other steps or elements.

[0033] Flowcharts are used in the present application to illustrate the operations performed by the system according to the embodiments of the present application. It should be understood that the preceding or following operations are not necessarily performed accurately in order. On the contrary, the various steps may be processed in reverse order or simultaneously. At the same time, other operations may also be added to these processes, or one or more operations may be removed from these processes.

[0034] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an acoustic output device according to some embodiments of this specification. Figure 1 As shown, the acoustic output device 100 may include a sound emitting portion 110 , a support member 120 , and a sensor 130 .

[0035] The sound-emitting part 110 is used to be placed near the ear of the user but not blocking the ear hole, and the sound-emitting part 110 can generate sound to input into the ear canal of the user. In some embodiments, the sound-emitting part 110 can include a sound-emitting unit.

[0036] The sound-generating unit is a component in the acoustic output device 100 that converts an electrical signal into sound. In some embodiments, the types of sound-generating units may include dynamic, electromagnetic, capacitive, piezoelectric, and the like. Specifically, the dynamic sound-generating unit includes a permanent magnet and a coil that can be used as a magnetic source. When current passes through the coil, it interacts with the magnetic field generated by the magnetic source, thereby causing the diaphragm to vibrate and emit sound. The electromagnetic sound-generating unit includes an electromagnet that can be used as a magnetic source. When power is turned on, the coil generates a magnetic field, causing the electromagnet to attract or repel the diaphragm, thereby generating vibrations and emitting sound. The capacitive sound-generating unit uses two parallel electrode plates to drive the diaphragm. The diaphragm can be an insulating material with conductive materials coated on both sides. When a voltage is applied between the electrodes, the electric field force generated drives the diaphragm to vibrate and emit sound. The piezoelectric sound-generating unit uses piezoelectric ceramics or piezoelectric polymers as diaphragms. When a voltage is applied, the shape of the piezoelectric material changes, thereby generating vibrations and emitting sound.

[0037] The support member 120 is a component used to fix the sound-emitting part 110 near the user's ear without blocking the ear hole. In some embodiments, the support member 120 is an arc-shaped structure that fits the junction of the user's ear and head (see Figure 2 The support member 120 shown in the figure) can be hung at the connection between the auricle and the head to keep the sound-emitting part 110 fixed near the ear but not blocking the ear hole. In some embodiments, the support member 120 is a structure that matches the user's auricle, and the support member 120 can be clamped at the user's auricle. For example, the support member 120 spans the auricle and is clamped on both sides of the user's auricle to keep the sound-emitting part 110 fixed on the ear but not blocking the ear hole. In some embodiments, the support member 120 can have an arc-shaped structure that matches the human head area, so that it can adapt to the user's head area such as the back of the head, forehead or top of the head. For example, the support member 120 is a rear-hanging structure, and the rear-hanging structure is an arc-shaped structure that fits the contour of the back of the user's head. In some embodiments, the support member 120 can be made of a flexible, lightweight, and wear-resistant material, such as polyamide, rubber, silicone, soft plastic, titanium alloy or stainless steel.

[0038] The sensor 130 is used to identify the wearing state of the acoustic output device 100. In some embodiments, the sensor 130 includes a capacitive sensor, which can convert contact pressure into a capacitance value. Based on this, the capacitive sensor can detect the change in capacitance of the acoustic output device 100 in the wearing and non-wearing states, and identify the wearing state and non-wearing state of the acoustic output device 100 based on the size of the capacitance. In some embodiments, the sensor 130 includes a pressure sensor, which can convert contact pressure into an electrical signal. The pressure sensor can detect the change in the electrical signal of the acoustic output device 100 in the wearing and non-wearing states, and identify the wearing state and non-wearing state of the acoustic output device 100 based on the size of the electrical signal. In some embodiments, the sensor 130 includes a photoelectric sensor, which can convert an optical signal into an electrical signal. The photoelectric sensor can detect the change in the electrical signal of the acoustic output device 100 in the wearing and non-wearing states, and identify the wearing state and non-wearing state of the acoustic output device 100 based on the size of the electrical signal.

[0039] In some embodiments, the sensor 130 includes at least one ultrasonic transducer. The ultrasonic transducer is used to transmit ultrasound and / or detect ultrasound. The sensor 130 can transmit a first ultrasonic signal and detect a second ultrasonic signal through an ultrasonic transducer, and determine the wearing state of the acoustic output device 100 based on the detected second ultrasonic signal. In some embodiments, the second ultrasonic signal includes a first ultrasonic signal or a reflection signal of the first ultrasonic signal. For example, when the detected second ultrasonic signal is a reflection signal of the first ultrasonic signal, when the acoustic output device 100 is in a non-wearing state, the emitted first ultrasonic signal is directly propagated to the outside world, and the second ultrasonic signal cannot be detected. For another example, when the detected second ultrasonic signal is a reflection signal of the first ultrasonic signal, when the acoustic output device 100 is in a wearing state, the emitted first ultrasonic signal is effectively reflected by the human ear, so that the reflected signal strength is enhanced, so that the intensity of the detected second ultrasonic signal is greater than the intensity of the emitted first ultrasonic signal. For another example, when the detected second ultrasonic signal is the first ultrasonic signal, when the acoustic output device 100 is in a non-wearing state, the intensity of the emitted first ultrasonic signal and the detected second ultrasonic signal are consistent or tend to be consistent; when the acoustic output device 100 is in a wearing state, the second ultrasonic signal cannot be detected. Thus, the wearing state of the acoustic output device 100 can be determined based on the comparison between the second ultrasonic signal and the first ultrasonic signal.

[0040] In some embodiments, the functional modules included in the ultrasonic transducer can be set as needed. For example, the ultrasonic transducer may include a functional module, which is used for both transmitting ultrasound and receiving ultrasound. For another example, the ultrasonic transducer includes a transmitting functional module and a receiving functional module, the transmitting functional module is used to transmit ultrasound, and the receiving functional module is used to receive ultrasound. As an example only, the ultrasonic transducer includes a piezoelectric material. Exemplary piezoelectric materials include piezoelectric ceramics, piezoelectric crystals (e.g., barium titanate, lead zirconate titanate, etc.), piezoelectric polymers (e.g., polyvinylidene fluoride), etc. or any combination thereof. Due to the piezoelectric effect / inverse piezoelectric effect of piezoelectric materials, the ultrasonic transducer can convert electrical energy into mechanical vibrations to generate ultrasonic signals, and when the ultrasonic transducer receives the ultrasonic signal, mechanical vibrations occur accordingly to generate electrical energy.

[0041] In some embodiments, the sensor 130 further includes a control circuit. The control circuit can identify whether the acoustic output device 100 is in a wearing state or a non-wearing state based on the detection of the second ultrasonic signal. In some embodiments, when the sensor 130 detects a change in the second ultrasonic signal, it can be determined that the wearing state of the acoustic output device 100 has changed. For example, when the detected second ultrasonic signal is a reflection signal of the first ultrasonic signal, when the intensity of the second ultrasonic signal increases, it can be determined that the acoustic output device 100 is switched from the non-wearing state to the wearing state. For another example, when the detected second ultrasonic signal is the first ultrasonic signal, when the intensity of the second ultrasonic signal decreases, it can be determined that the acoustic output device 100 is switched from the wearing state to the non-wearing state. In some embodiments, the control circuit presets a threshold value for the difference in intensity between the emitted first ultrasonic signal and the detected second ultrasonic signal. The threshold value is the minimum difference between the intensity of the first ultrasonic signal and the intensity of the second ultrasonic signal. The control circuit can determine the intensity difference between the first ultrasonic signal and the second ultrasonic signal. When the detected second ultrasonic signal is a reflection signal of the first ultrasonic signal, when the difference is greater than the threshold, the control circuit can determine that the acoustic output device 100 is in a wearing state; when the difference is less than or equal to the threshold, the control circuit can determine that the acoustic output device 100 is in a non-wearing state. When the detected second ultrasonic signal is the first ultrasonic signal, when the difference is greater than the threshold, the control circuit can determine that the acoustic output device 100 is in a wearing state; when the difference is less than or equal to the threshold, the control circuit can determine that the acoustic output device 100 is in a non-wearing state. In some embodiments, the threshold can be set as needed. For example, in order to reduce the probability of misdetection and improve the accuracy of wearing detection, the threshold can be set to a larger value. The misdetection described in this specification refers to the sensor detecting the non-wearing state of the acoustic output device as a wearing state due to the touch of a non-ear structure (such as a finger).

[0042] In some embodiments, when the wearing state of the acoustic output device 100 changes and causes the second ultrasonic signal of the sensor 130 to change, the output state of the acoustic output device 100 changes accordingly. Specifically, when the acoustic output device 100 is in the wearing state, the acoustic output device 100 switches to the working state, that is, the sound unit starts to generate sound. When the acoustic output device 100 is in the non-wearing state, the acoustic output device 100 switches to the non-working state, that is, the sound unit stops generating sound. In some embodiments, the control circuit can control the switching of the output state of the acoustic output device 100. When the control circuit detects that the intensity of the second ultrasonic signal increases or the difference (the intensity difference between the first ultrasonic signal and the second ultrasonic signal) is greater than or equal to the threshold, the acoustic output device 100 is controlled to switch to the working state; when the control circuit detects that the second ultrasonic signal decreases or the difference is less than the threshold, the acoustic output device 100 is controlled to switch to the non-working state.

[0043] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic transducer may be located in the sound-emitting portion 110, and the ultrasonic transducer is used to transmit and receive ultrasonic signals. For example, the ultrasonic transducer includes a transmitting function module and a receiving function module, the transmitting function module is used to transmit a first ultrasonic signal, and the receiving function module is used to receive a second ultrasonic signal. In some embodiments, the sensor 130 includes a plurality of ultrasonic transducers, and the plurality of ultrasonic transducers may be located in the sound-emitting portion 110, and some of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers are used to transmit the first ultrasonic signal, and another portion of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers are used to receive the second ultrasonic signal.

[0044] In some embodiments, the sensor 130 includes two ultrasonic transducers, one is located in the sound-emitting part 110, and the other is placed in the target chamber, or the positions of the two are exchanged. In some embodiments, the sensor 130 includes multiple ultrasonic transducers, and some of the ultrasonic transducers used to transmit ultrasonic signals can be placed in the shell of the sound-emitting part 110, and some of the ultrasonic transducers used to receive ultrasonic signals can be placed in the target chamber, or the positions of the two are exchanged. The target chamber is a chamber located on both sides of the auricle with the sound-emitting part 110 when the acoustic output device 100 is in a worn state. In some embodiments, the target chamber is a battery compartment of the acoustic output device 100. In some embodiments, the target chamber is a partial cavity inside the support 120.

[0045] In some embodiments, the acoustic output device 100 may further include a shell that accommodates the sound-emitting part 110 and the sensor 130. The shell may be connected to the support 120. The shell is an outer shell structure for accommodating and protecting the components located inside it. In some embodiments, the shape of the shell may be a rectangular parallelepiped, a quasi-rectangular parallelepiped, a cylinder, an ellipsoid or other regular and irregular three-dimensional structures. The shell may be designed as an integral or split type. For example, the shell may include two parts located at both ends of the support 120 and respectively connected to the support 120, one part is used to accommodate the sound-emitting part 110, and the other part is used to form the target warehouse body. In some embodiments, the material of the shell may be metal, plastic, ceramic, etc., so that the shell has good strength, wear resistance and anti-interference performance, and effectively protects the internal components (such as the sound-emitting part 110 and the sensor 130). For more descriptions about the acoustic output device, please refer to other parts of this specification, such as Figure 2 , Fig.12 and related instructions.

[0046] The open-type (or non-in-ear) acoustic output device 100 does not have a fixed in-ear structure, and its wearing position stability and consistency are poor. The acoustic output device 100 detects its wearing condition by using an ultrasonic transducer. The ultrasonic sensor will not be interfered by sweat, rain and other substances, and can reduce the probability of misdetection of the wearing condition of the acoustic output device 100, which is more suitable for the wearing detection of open-type headphones.

[0047] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an acoustic output device according to some embodiments of this specification. Figure 2 As shown, the acoustic output device 200 may include a sound-emitting portion 210, a support member 220, and a sensor 230. In some embodiments, the sound-emitting portion 110, the support member 220, and the sensor 230 are Figure 1 The sound-emitting part 110 , the support member 120 , and the sensor 130 are shown as example embodiments.

[0048] In some embodiments, the sound-emitting portion 210 (or the shell that accommodates the sound-emitting portion) is a rectangular parallelepiped (or a runway shape). A cavity is provided inside the sound-emitting portion 210 for accommodating the sound-emitting unit 211. The sound-emitting unit 211 can generate sound. In some embodiments, a sound outlet hole (not shown in the figure) is provided on a side of the sound-emitting portion 210 (for example, a side close to the user's ear and approximately parallel to the user's ear), and the sound generated by the sound-emitting unit 211 can be output through the sound outlet hole and received by the user's ear hole.

[0049] In some embodiments, the support member 220 is an ear hook, which is formed into an arc-shaped structure that fits the junction of the user's ear and head. In some embodiments, the support member 220 has a hook-shaped portion 221. When the acoustic output device 200 is in a worn state, the hook-shaped portion 221 of the support member 220 is hung between the user's auricle and the head, and the hook-shaped portion 221 extends to the side away from the head and is connected to one end of the sound-emitting portion 210, so as to fix the sound-emitting portion 210 at a position near the ear hole but not blocking the ear hole.

[0050] In some embodiments, the sensor 230 includes at least one ultrasonic transducer 231, and the ultrasonic transducer 231 included in the sensor 230 is located in the sound-emitting part 210. The ultrasonic transducer 231 can emit a first ultrasonic signal to the outside of the sound-emitting part 210 and detect a second ultrasonic signal. The second ultrasonic signal is a reflection signal of the first ultrasonic signal. In some embodiments, when the acoustic output device 200 is in a worn state, the first ultrasonic signal can be reflected by the ear structure of the user (e.g., the concha cavity), and the ultrasonic transducer 231 receives the reflection signal of the first ultrasonic signal (i.e., the second ultrasonic signal), and the intensity of the second ultrasonic signal is greater than the first ultrasonic signal. In some embodiments, when the acoustic output device 200 is not worn, the first ultrasonic signal is not reflected and directly propagates to the outside, and the ultrasonic transducer 231 does not receive the second ultrasonic signal. In some embodiments, when the acoustic output device 200 is not worn, the first ultrasonic signal is reflected by an object other than the ear structure of the user, and the second ultrasonic signal received by the ultrasonic transducer 231 is consistent with or tends to be consistent with the intensity of the first ultrasonic signal.

[0051] In some embodiments, the sensor 230 further includes a control circuit (not shown in the figure), which can detect the second ultrasonic signal and determine the wearing state of the acoustic output device 200 based on the detection. For example, when the control circuit detects that the intensity of the second ultrasonic signal is greater than the first ultrasonic signal, it determines that the acoustic output device 200 is in a wearing state. For another example, when the control circuit detects that the intensity of the second ultrasonic signal is close to or equal to the first ultrasonic signal, it determines that the acoustic output device 200 is in a non-wearing state. For another example, when the control circuit cannot detect the second ultrasonic signal, it determines that the acoustic output device 200 is in a non-wearing state. In some embodiments, the control circuit is connected to the ultrasonic transducer 231 in communication. The ultrasonic transducer 231 can transmit the first ultrasonic signal and the second ultrasonic signal to the control circuit in real time. In some embodiments, the control circuit presets a first threshold value for the intensity difference between the first ultrasonic signal and the second ultrasonic signal. When the control circuit detects that the intensity difference between the second ultrasonic signal and the first ultrasonic signal is greater than or equal to the first threshold, it can be determined that the acoustic output device 200 is in a worn state; when the control circuit detects that the intensity difference between the second ultrasonic signal and the first ultrasonic signal is less than the first threshold, it can be determined that the acoustic output device 200 is in a non-worn state.

[0052] In some embodiments, when a change in the wearing state of the acoustic output device 200 is detected, the control circuit may control the acoustic output device 200 to change the output state. When the control circuit determines that the acoustic output device 200 is switched from the non-wearing state to the wearing state, the control circuit controls the acoustic output device 200 to switch to the working state; when the control circuit determines that the acoustic output device 200 is switched from the wearing state to the non-wearing state, the control circuit controls the acoustic output device 200 to switch to the non-working state.

[0053] What you need to know is, Figure 2 The acoustic output device 200 shown in the figure is only used for exemplary description and does not constitute a limitation thereto. For example, the support member 220 may be a rear hanging structure. For example, the sensor 230 includes a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 231. For another example, the ultrasonic transducer 231 includes a plurality of functional modules. For more description of the acoustic output device 200, please refer to Figure 10-11 And related instructions.

[0054] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic transducer 231 includes a vibrating plate. The vibrating plate includes a piezoelectric material. Due to the inverse piezoelectric effect of the piezoelectric material, the vibrating plate can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical vibration, and the mechanical vibration causes the air to vibrate to generate an ultrasonic signal. When the ultrasonic transducer 231 receives an ultrasonic signal, the ultrasonic signal causes the air to vibrate, causing the vibrating plate to vibrate mechanically. Due to the inverse piezoelectric effect of the piezoelectric material, the vibrating plate can convert the mechanical vibration into an electrical signal. The ultrasonic transducer 231 transmits and receives ultrasonic signals by applying an electrical signal to the vibrating plate and identifying the electrical signal generated by the vibrating plate.

[0055] In some embodiments, the vibrating piece can generate a first ultrasonic signal. Since the acoustic output device 200 adopts an open wearing method, the angle and position of the sound-emitting part 210 relative to the ear may be different each time the user wears the acoustic output device 200, causing the wearing position of the sound-emitting part 210 to be unstable and variable. In order to more accurately detect the wearing state of the sound-emitting part 210 (or the acoustic output device 200), it is necessary to improve the spatial directivity of the ultrasonic transducer 231. When the directivity is strong enough, the first ultrasonic signal emitted by the ultrasonic transducer 231 can be reflected and effectively detected only when the sound-emitting part 210 is worn at a specific position and angle. In some embodiments, the frequency of the first ultrasonic signal emitted by the ultrasonic transducer 231 can be increased to improve the directivity of the ultrasonic transducer 231, thereby achieving more accurate detection of the wearing state of the sound-emitting part 210 and reducing the probability of misdetection.

[0056] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a low-frequency ultrasonic transducer according to some embodiments of the present specification.

[0057] A low-frequency ultrasonic transducer is an ultrasonic transducer whose frequency of ultrasonic signals emitted is lower than a certain value. For example, the frequency of ultrasonic signals emitted by a low-frequency ultrasonic transducer is lower than 40kHz, 30kHz, 25kHz, etc. Figure 3 As shown, the low-frequency ultrasonic transducer 331 can be regarded as a point sound source. The low-frequency long wave emitted by the low-frequency ultrasonic transducer 331 is diffused at a large angle (e.g., 360°). At this time, the ultrasonic signal emitted by the low-frequency ultrasonic transducer 331 has no directivity. The directivity described in the specification may refer to the directional angle of the ultrasonic signal emitted by the ultrasonic transducer, which is consistent with the angle at which the ultrasonic signal diffuses from the ultrasonic transducer. The smaller the directional angle of the ultrasonic signal, the better the directivity. Figure 3 The diffusion angle of the ultrasonic signal shown is 360°, and the low-frequency ultrasonic transducer 331 lacks directivity.

[0058] Figure 4 It is a schematic diagram of an in-ear acoustic output device provided with a low-frequency ultrasonic transducer according to some embodiments of the present specification.

[0059] An in-ear acoustic output device is an acoustic output device that blocks the user's ear canal when worn. Figure 4 As shown, when the user wears the in-ear acoustic output device 300, the front end of the acoustic output device 300 will penetrate into the user's ear canal and block the ear hole 310, and the part of the acoustic output device 300 close to the ear canal (for example, part A) will be blocked by the user's ear structure 320. When the in-ear acoustic output device 300 performs wearing detection, the low-frequency long wave emitted by the low-frequency ultrasonic transducer 331 is diffused 360°, and the ultrasonic signal in the wearing detection direction along the user's ear canal is enhanced due to the reflection of the ear canal structure, and the ultrasonic signal away from the user's ear canal is also enhanced due to the occlusion reflection of the ear structure. In other words, the ultrasonic signal emitted by the low-frequency ultrasonic transducer 331 will be blocked by the user's ear structure, and basically no false detection occurs. Therefore, the low-frequency ultrasonic generating unit 331 is applied to the in-ear acoustic output device 300, and the wearing state can also be accurately detected.

[0060] Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram of a non-in-ear acoustic output device provided with a low-frequency ultrasonic transducer according to some embodiments of the present specification.

[0061] A non-in-ear acoustic output device (such as the acoustic output device 200) refers to an acoustic output device that is worn close to the user's ear but does not block the ear hole. Figure 5As shown, when the user wears the non-in-ear acoustic output device, the non-in-ear acoustic output device is in an open state as a whole. When the non-in-ear acoustic output device performs wearing detection, the low-frequency long wave emitted by the low-frequency ultrasonic transducer 331 diffuses 360°, and the ultrasonic signal in the wearing detection direction toward the user's ear is enhanced due to the reflection of the ear structure, but the ultrasonic signal in other directions cannot be closed by the ear structure, and will leak from various angles and positions, so that objects in other directions will interfere with the ultrasonic signal, resulting in misdetection. In addition, the non-in-ear acoustic output device has a large variability in the angle and position relative to the ear when worn, and the probability of objects appearing in other directions is relatively high, thereby increasing the probability of misdetection. Therefore, for the non-in-ear acoustic output device, its wearing state cannot be accurately detected by the low-frequency ultrasonic generating unit 331.

[0062] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a high-frequency ultrasonic transducer according to some embodiments of the present specification.

[0063] A high-frequency ultrasonic transducer is an ultrasonic transducer whose frequency of ultrasonic signals emitted is higher than a certain value. For example, the frequency of ultrasonic signals emitted by a high-frequency ultrasonic transducer is higher than 40kHz, 50kHz, etc. Figure 6 As shown, the high-frequency ultrasonic transducer 631 can be regarded as a surface sound source, and the high-frequency waves emitted by the high-frequency ultrasonic transducer 631 can be diffused in a direction. For example, the high-frequency waves diffuse in a direction toward one side of the high-frequency ultrasonic transducer 631, and the ultrasonic signal emitted by the high-frequency ultrasonic transducer 631 has directivity.

[0064] Figure 7 It is a schematic diagram of a non-in-ear acoustic output device provided with a high-frequency ultrasonic transducer according to some embodiments of the present specification.

[0065] like Figure 7As shown, when the non-in-ear acoustic output device performs wearing detection, the high-frequency wave emitted by the high-frequency ultrasonic transducer 631 propagates in a specific direction, and it is possible to identify whether there is an occluding structure in the specific direction. When the non-in-ear acoustic output device is effectively worn, the ultrasonic signal emitted by the high-frequency ultrasonic transducer 631 will be mainly blocked and reflected by the ear structure of the user in the transmitting direction, and will not be affected by the occluding objects in other directions, so basically no misdetection occurs. Since the ultrasonic signal emitted by the high-frequency ultrasonic transducer 631 is directional, the reflected signal can only be received when the sound-emitting part of the non-in-ear acoustic output device is worn at a specific position and angle. Based on this, the high-frequency ultrasonic transducer 631 can be used to exclude a variety of irregular wearing forms that the non-in-ear acoustic output device may have. For example, when the actual wearing position of the non-in-ear acoustic output device is offset from the correct wearing position by an angle, the sensor cannot detect the second ultrasonic signal or the difference between the detected second signal and the emitted first ultrasonic signal does not meet the condition (for example, below a threshold value), and the irregular wearing of the non-in-ear acoustic output device will not be detected as being in a wearing state.

[0066] In some embodiments, the higher the frequency of the first ultrasonic signal of the ultrasonic transducer, the stronger its directivity, and the smaller the probability of misdetection. In some embodiments, the frequency of the first ultrasonic signal is not less than 40kHz. In some embodiments, to further improve the directivity of the first ultrasonic signal, the frequency of the first ultrasonic signal is not less than 100kHz. In some embodiments, in order to enable the first ultrasonic signal to point to a specific direction and improve the accuracy of wearing status recognition, the frequency of the first ultrasonic signal is not less than 150kHz.

[0067] By limiting the frequency of the first ultrasonic signal, various irregular wearing forms that may be present in non-in-ear acoustic output devices can be excluded. By increasing the frequency of the first ultrasonic signal, the directivity of the first ultrasonic signal can be enhanced, thereby reducing the probability of misdetection caused by other factors.

[0068] In some embodiments, the directivity (also known as the directivity angle) of the first ultrasonic signal emitted by at least one ultrasonic transducer 231 may be set within a preset angle range. Figure 8 Schematic diagram of a non-in-ear acoustic output device with an ultrasonic transducer having a large directional angle according to some embodiments of this specification. Figure 8 As shown, when the directional angle of the first ultrasonic signal emitted by at least one ultrasonic transducer 231 is large, for example, when the directional angle is 120°, the emission path of the first ultrasonic signal cannot be blocked by the ear structure ( Figure 8The ear region 810 is shown as being fully covered, and the leaked first ultrasonic signal is easily reflected by other objects, causing false touches and misdetection. For example, when touching the acoustic output device 200, the finger is easily placed on the transmission path of the first ultrasonic signal, causing the control circuit to mistakenly determine that the acoustic output device 200 is in the wearing state, and mistakenly switch the working state of the acoustic output device 200.

[0069] Fig. 9 Schematic diagram of a non-in-ear acoustic output device with an ultrasonic transducer having a small directional angle according to some embodiments of this specification. Fig. 9 As shown, when the directional angle of the first ultrasonic signal emitted by at least one ultrasonic transducer 231 is small, for example, when the directional angle is 30°, the emission path of the first ultrasonic signal is blocked by the ear structure ( Fig. 9 The ear area 810 is shown to be fully covered and is not prone to accidental touch. Therefore, in some embodiments, the preset angle range may be 5°-90°. In some embodiments, to further improve the directivity of the first ultrasonic signal, the preset angle range may be 10°-70°.

[0070] Continue to see Figure 2 , the sound-emitting portion 210 includes an inner wall that faces the user's ear when worn. In some embodiments, in order to enable the sound-emitting portion 210 to cover more of the user's ear when worn, ensure the sound reception effect of the user's ear hole, and reduce the probability of misdetection, the area of ​​the inner wall of the sound-emitting portion 210 can be as large as possible. However, in order to ensure the lightness of the acoustic output device 200 and meet the user's wearing comfort requirements, the area of ​​the inner wall can be as small as possible. Therefore, when setting the area of ​​the inner side, it is necessary to comprehensively consider multiple factors such as the sound reception effect and wearing comfort. In some embodiments, the area range of the inner wall can be 1mm 2 -100 mm 2 More preferably, the area of ​​the inner wall is 20 mm 2 -60 mm 2 .

[0071] In some embodiments, due to the position limitation of the sound-emitting unit 211, at least one ultrasonic transducer 231 can be arranged on the inner wall. In some embodiments, the position of the ultrasonic transducer 231 is not limited within the effective projection area of ​​the inner wall. The effective projection area refers to the area of ​​the inner wall directly opposite to the ear. The ultrasonic transducer 231 is located within the effective projection area, which can ensure that the transmission path of the first ultrasonic signal of the ultrasonic transducer 231 can fall on the ear. In some embodiments, the effective projection area of ​​the inner wall is less than or equal to the area of ​​the inner wall.

[0072] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic transducer 231 is disposed near the connection between the sound-emitting portion 210 and the support member 220 (see Figure 2 The connecting part 210 is connected to the support 220, thereby the mass of the ultrasonic transducer 231 can be shared more by the support 220, so that the sound-emitting part 210 is more stable when worn and the probability of falling off when worn is lower. The connecting part can refer to the area where the sound-emitting part 210 and the support 220 are connected.

[0073] In some embodiments of the present specification, the ultrasonic transducer 231 is disposed on the inner wall of the sound-emitting portion 210, thereby leaving enough installation space inside the sound-emitting portion for the sound-emitting unit 211. When the sound-emitting portion 210 is worn, the inner wall faces the ear of the user, and the ultrasonic signal (for example, the first ultrasonic signal) emitted by the ultrasonic transducer 231 can fall on the ear, making the wearing detection more accurate and sensitive.

[0074] In some embodiments, an opening is provided on the inner side wall, and the first ultrasonic signal propagates to the outside of the sound-emitting part 210 through the opening. In some embodiments, the opening is on the emission path of the first ultrasonic signal emitted by the ultrasonic transducer 231, so that the first ultrasonic signal can propagate to the outside of the sound-emitting part 210 through the opening. In some embodiments, the shape of the opening may include but is not limited to regular or irregular shapes such as square, circular, polygonal, etc. In some embodiments, the number of openings on the inner side wall may be 1, 2 or more. In some embodiments, the multiple openings provided on the inner side wall may be distributed in an array or irregularly distributed. In some embodiments, the intensity of the ultrasonic signal emitted and received by the ultrasonic transducer 231 can be adjusted by adjusting the area, number or density of the openings. In some embodiments, the openings may be covered with a waterproof / dustproof net to prevent the holes opened on the inner side wall from affecting the reliability of the sound output device.

[0075] In some embodiments, since the frequency of the first ultrasonic signal is relatively high and its wavelength is relatively short, it is less likely to be affected by the relevant structures of the acoustic output device 200 (such as openings, damping nets, waterproof / dustproof nets, etc.), so the openings on the inner wall do not need to be set to a large area to achieve the transmission and reception of ultrasonic signals. The smaller the area of ​​the opening, the more conducive it is to protect the integrity of the acoustic output device 200, but the area of ​​the opening cannot be too small. Too small an opening area will cause most of the transmitted and reflected ultrasonic signals to be blocked by the shell of the sound-emitting part 210, thereby causing the ultrasonic transducer 231 to emit and receive fewer ultrasonic signals. In some embodiments, in order to protect the integrity of the acoustic output device 200 and avoid the ultrasonic transducer 231 emitting and receiving fewer ultrasonic signals, the area range of the opening can be 0.5mm 2 -100 mm 2 The area range here refers to the total area range of one or more openings provided on the inner wall. In some embodiments, to further protect the integrity of the acoustic output device 200, the area range of the openings may be 0.5 mm2 -50 mm 2 .

[0076] Some embodiments of the present specification adopt a high-frequency ultrasonic transducer 231 so that the opening on the inner wall does not need to be set up in a large area to achieve the transmission and reception of ultrasonic signals, thereby reducing the assembly requirements of the ultrasonic transducer 231 in the acoustic output device 200.

[0077] In some embodiments, the ultrasonic transducer 231 and the sound-emitting unit 211 can share an opening, and there is no need to set an additional sound outlet hole on the inner wall. The first ultrasonic signal emitted by the ultrasonic transducer 231 and the sound emitted by the sound-emitting unit are both exported to the outside of the sound-emitting part 210 through the opening. At this time, the vibrating plate of the ultrasonic transducer 231 can be directly opposite the opening, or the center of the vibrating plate is close to the projection position of the center of the opening on the ear. At the same time, the sound-emitting unit 211 needs to be set as close to the opening as possible. In some embodiments, the distance range between the center of the vibrating plate and the projection position of the center of the opening on the inner wall is 0mm-10mm (for example, 0mm-8mm, 0mm-5mm, etc.).

[0078] Some embodiments of the present specification can avoid opening multiple holes on a limited inner wall area by allowing the ultrasonic transducer 231 and the sound unit 211 to share an opening, so as to protect the integrity of the acoustic output device 200. On the basis of not increasing the space occupied by the holes on the inner wall, the area of ​​the opening can be appropriately increased to ensure the output performance of the ultrasonic transducer 231 and the sound unit 211.

[0079] In some embodiments, the inner wall is provided with both an opening and a sound outlet hole, and the ultrasonic transducer 231 and the sound unit 211 may correspond to the opening and the sound outlet hole, respectively. The first ultrasonic signal emitted by the ultrasonic transducer 231 is exported to the outside of the sound emitting part 210 through the opening, and the sound emitted by the sound unit 211 is exported to the outside of the sound emitting part 210 through the sound outlet hole.

[0080] In some embodiments of the present specification, the ultrasonic transducer 231 and the sound-generating unit 211 correspond to the opening and the sound-emitting hole, respectively, so that the selection of the installation position of the ultrasonic transducer 231 can be more flexible.

[0081] In some embodiments, the number of ultrasonic transducers 231 included in the acoustic output device 200 is single, and the ultrasonic transducer 231 has the function of transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals. In some embodiments, the single ultrasonic transducer 231 transmits a first ultrasonic signal to the outside of the sound-emitting part 210 during the transmission time period, and detects a second ultrasonic signal during the receiving time period. The second ultrasonic signal is a reflection signal of the first ultrasonic signal. In chronological order, the receiving time period is after the transmitting time period, and the interval between the transmitting time period and the receiving time period can be greater than the vibration attenuation time period of the ultrasonic transducer 231. The vibration attenuation time period refers to the time occupied by the attenuation process of the vibration of the ultrasonic transducer after the transmission signal is finished.

[0082] When the acoustic output device 200 performs wearing detection, if the distance between the ultrasonic transducer 231 and the ear is far, the second ultrasonic signal will not return to the ultrasonic transducer 231 in the decay time period, so that the decay vibration in the decay time period will not affect the ultrasonic transducer 231's detection of the second ultrasonic signal, that is, the decay vibration and the vibration of the second ultrasonic signal will not mix and interfere with each other. If the distance between the ultrasonic transducer 231 and the ear is close, the second ultrasonic signal may return to the ultrasonic transducer 231 in the decay time period, so that the decay vibration in the decay time period will affect the ultrasonic transducer 231's detection of the second ultrasonic signal, that is, the decay vibration and the vibration of the second ultrasonic signal will mix and interfere with each other. In order not to affect the ultrasonic transducer 231's detection of the second ultrasonic signal when the distance between the ultrasonic transducer 231 and the ear is close, the decay time period can be as short as possible. In some embodiments, the higher the frequency of the ultrasonic signal, the shorter the decay time period. Therefore, when the distance between the ultrasonic transducer 231 and the ear is relatively close, it is necessary to use an ultrasonic transducer 231 that transmits an ultrasonic signal of a relatively high frequency (e.g., 40kHz, 100kHz, 150kHz, 180kHz, or 200kHz). In some embodiments, the sensor 230 can determine the wearing state of the acoustic output device 200 according to the first ultrasonic signal transmitted by the ultrasonic transducer 231 in the transmitting time period and the second ultrasonic signal received in the receiving time period. For example, when the sensor 230 does not receive an ultrasonic signal in the receiving time period, the sensor 230 determines that the acoustic output device 200 is in a non-wearing state. For another example, if the intensity difference between the first ultrasonic signal transmitted in the transmitting time period and the second ultrasonic signal received in the receiving time period is within a preset range, the sensor 230 determines that the acoustic output device 200 is in a wearing state. If the intensity difference between the first ultrasonic signal transmitted in the transmitting time period and the second ultrasonic signal received in the receiving time period is outside the preset range, the sensor 230 determines that the acoustic output device 200 is in a non-wearing state.

[0083] Fig.10 Schematic diagram of a non-in-ear acoustic output device with a single ultrasonic transducer according to some embodiments of this specification. Fig.10 As shown, the acoustic output device 200 is in a wearing state, and the high-frequency ultrasonic transducer 231 transmits a first ultrasonic signal in a direction toward the ear during the transmission period, and the transmission path of the first ultrasonic signal is controlled by the ear ( Fig.10 The ear area 810 is shown as being completely or partially blocked, forming a reflection. The ultrasonic transducer 231 receives the reflected second ultrasonic signal during the receiving time period. Since the ear will strengthen the reflected signal, if the signal strength of the second ultrasonic signal is greater than the signal strength of the first ultrasonic signal, the sensor 230 determines that the acoustic output device 200 is in a worn state. When the acoustic output device 200 is in an unworn state, the first ultrasonic signal directly diffuses to the outside or is blocked by a distant object to form a weak reflection, and the ultrasonic transducer 231 does not receive an ultrasonic signal during the receiving time period or receives a weaker second ultrasonic signal. If there is no second ultrasonic signal or the signal strength of the second ultrasonic signal is less than the signal strength of the first ultrasonic signal, the sensor 230 determines that the acoustic output device 200 is in a non-worn state.

[0084] Some embodiments of the present specification can reduce the mass of the acoustic output device 200 by adopting an ultrasonic transducer 231 with the function of transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals, meet the requirement of portability of the acoustic output device 200, reduce the burden of the user wearing it, and help reduce product costs.

[0085] In some embodiments, the acoustic output device 200 includes a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 231. In this case, a portion of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 231 has the function of transmitting ultrasonic signals, and transmits a first ultrasonic signal to the outside of the sound-emitting portion 210. The other portion of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 231 has the function of receiving ultrasonic signals, and receives and detects a second ultrasonic signal. The ultrasonic transducer 231 with a transmitting function and the ultrasonic transducer 231 with a receiving function are both arranged inside the sound-emitting portion 210. In some embodiments, the sensor 230 can determine the wearing state of the acoustic output device 200 based on the first ultrasonic signal transmitted by the ultrasonic transducer 231 with a transmitting function and the second ultrasonic signal received by the ultrasonic transducer 231 with a receiving function. For example, when the ultrasonic transducer 231 with a receiving function does not receive an ultrasonic signal, the sensor 230 determines that the acoustic output device 200 is in a non-wearing state. For another example, if the intensity of the second ultrasonic signal received by the ultrasonic transducer 231 with a receiving function is less than or equal to the intensity of the first ultrasonic signal emitted by the ultrasonic transducer 231 with a transmitting function, the sensor 230 determines that the acoustic output device 200 is in a non-wearing state. For another example, if the intensity of the second ultrasonic signal received by the ultrasonic transducer 231 with a receiving function is greater than the intensity of the first ultrasonic signal emitted by the ultrasonic transducer 231 with a transmitting function, the sensor 230 determines that the acoustic output device 200 is in a wearing state. In some embodiments, the ultrasonic transducer 231 with a transmitting function is a high-frequency ultrasonic transducer; the ultrasonic transducer 231 with a receiving function is a low-frequency ultrasonic transducer or a high-frequency ultrasonic transducer.

[0086] Fig.11 Schematic diagram of a non-in-ear acoustic output device with multiple ultrasonic transducers according to some embodiments of this specification. Fig.11 As shown, the acoustic output device 200 is in a wearing state, and the high-frequency ultrasonic transducer 231A emits a first ultrasonic signal with a directivity toward the ear, and the transmission path of the first ultrasonic signal is blocked by the ear ( Fig.11 The ultrasonic transducer 231B receives the reflected second ultrasonic signal. If the signal strength of the second ultrasonic signal is greater than the first ultrasonic signal strength, the sensor 230 determines that the acoustic output device 200 is in a worn state. When the acoustic output device 200 is not worn, the first ultrasonic signal directly diffuses to the outside or is blocked by a distant object to form a weak reflection, and the ultrasonic transducer 231B does not receive the ultrasonic signal or receives a weaker second ultrasonic signal. If there is no second ultrasonic signal or the signal strength of the second ultrasonic signal is less than the signal strength of the first ultrasonic signal, the sensor 230 determines that the acoustic output device 200 is not worn.

[0087] Some embodiments of the present specification separately set an ultrasonic transducer 231 with a transmitting function and an ultrasonic transducer 231 with a receiving function. There is no need to distinguish the transmitting time and the receiving time of the ultrasonic transducer 231, and the time for the ultrasonic transducer 231 to transmit ultrasound can be set more flexibly in the time domain.

[0088] Fig.12 is a schematic diagram of an acoustic output device according to some embodiments of this specification. Fig.12 As shown, the acoustic output device 300 may include a sound-emitting portion 310 , an ear hook 320 , a sensor 330 , and a target chamber 340 .

[0089] In some embodiments, a cavity is provided inside the sound-emitting portion 310 for accommodating a sound-emitting unit 311 that generates sound. The ear hook 320 places the sound-emitting portion 310 near the ear but does not block the ear hole. When the acoustic output device 300 is worn, the end of the ear hook 320 close to the face is connected to the sound-emitting portion 310, and the end of the ear hook 320 close to the back of the head is connected to the target chamber 340. The sound-emitting portion 310 and the target chamber 340 are arranged to be separated from the user's auricle, and are located on both sides of the auricle.

[0090] In some embodiments, the sound-emitting part 310, the ear hook 320, and the sensor 330 are Figure 1 The sound-emitting part 110, the support member 120, and the sensor 130 are shown in FIG. In some embodiments, the sound-emitting part 310, the ear hook 320, and the sensor 330 are Figure 2 The sound-emitting part 210, the support member 220, and the sensor 230 are similar to those shown in the figure. The acoustic output device 300 can selectively adopt the relevant technical features of the acoustic output device 200. For more descriptions of the sound-emitting part 310, the ear hook 320, and the sensor 330, see Figure 2 Related instructions. Figure 3 The acoustic output device 300 shown in the figure is only used for exemplary description and does not constitute a limitation. For example, the target chamber 340 can be set in any area of ​​the ear hook 320 near the back of the head, and is not limited to being connected to one end of the ear hook 320 near the back of the head.

[0091] The target chamber 340 is a cavity for accommodating the second ultrasonic transducer 332. In some embodiments, the target chamber 340 can be cylindrical, rectangular or other custom shapes to meet the requirements of the internal component layout. In some embodiments, the material of the target chamber 340 can be ABS plastic, metal alloy or other suitable materials to ensure lightness, durability and comfortable wearing. In some embodiments, the acoustic output device 300 includes a battery or a circuit board, which can be set in the sound-emitting part 310, or in the target chamber 340, or in the ear hook 320.

[0092] In some embodiments, the sensor 330 includes a first ultrasonic transducer 331 and a second ultrasonic transducer 332. The first ultrasonic transducer 331 is located in the sound-emitting portion 310, and the second ultrasonic transducer 332 is located in the target chamber 340. The first ultrasonic transducer 331 can transmit an ultrasonic signal to the second ultrasonic transducer 332, and the second ultrasonic transducer 332 receives the ultrasonic signal. Alternatively, the second ultrasonic transducer 332 can transmit an ultrasonic signal to the first ultrasonic transducer 331, and the first ultrasonic transducer 331 receives the ultrasonic signal. For ease of explanation, it is assumed below that the first ultrasonic transducer 331 is used to transmit an ultrasonic signal, and the second ultrasonic transducer 332 is used to receive an ultrasonic signal. When the acoustic output device 300 is in a wearing state, the ultrasonic signal emitted by the first ultrasonic transducer 331 will be blocked by the user's auricle, resulting in the second ultrasonic transducer 332 receiving no or very little ultrasonic signal.

[0093] When the directivity of the ultrasonic transducer (e.g., the first ultrasonic transducer 331) that transmits the ultrasonic signal is insufficient, the ultrasonic signal emitted by the first ultrasonic transducer 331 may leak from the peripheral side of the auricle and be received by the ultrasonic transducer (e.g., the second ultrasonic transducer 332) that receives the ultrasonic signal, resulting in misdetection of the wearing state. In order to more accurately detect the wearing state of the acoustic output device 300, the directivity of the ultrasonic transducer that transmits the ultrasonic signal in space may be improved. When the directivity is strong enough, the ultrasonic signal emitted by the ultrasonic transducer that transmits the ultrasonic signal can be completely blocked by the auricle. In some embodiments, the frequency of the ultrasonic signal emitted by the ultrasonic transducer that transmits the ultrasonic signal may be increased to improve the directivity of the ultrasonic transducer that transmits the ultrasonic signal, thereby achieving more accurate detection of the wearing state of the acoustic output device 300. In some embodiments, the frequency of the ultrasonic signal emitted by the ultrasonic transducer that transmits the ultrasonic signal is not less than 20kHz. In some embodiments, in order to further improve the directivity of the first ultrasonic transducer 331, the frequency of the ultrasonic signal is not less than 40kHz. Preferably, in order to further improve the directivity of the first ultrasonic transducer 331, the frequency of the ultrasonic signal is not less than 150kHz. In some embodiments, the other characteristics of the ultrasonic transducer receiving the ultrasonic signal, except for the setting position, such as ultrasonic frequency, power, directivity, etc., may be the same as those of the ultrasonic transducer transmitting the ultrasonic signal. In some embodiments, since only the ultrasonic signal needs to be received, the ultrasonic frequency of the ultrasonic transducer receiving the ultrasonic signal may be lower than the ultrasonic frequency of the ultrasonic transducer transmitting the ultrasonic signal. In some embodiments, since only the ultrasonic signal needs to be received, the power of the ultrasonic transducer receiving the ultrasonic signal may be lower than the power of the ultrasonic transducer transmitting the ultrasonic signal. In some embodiments, since only the ultrasonic signal needs to be received, the directivity of the ultrasonic transducer receiving the ultrasonic signal may be lower than the directivity of the ultrasonic transducer transmitting the ultrasonic signal.

[0094] In some embodiments, the sensor 330 may determine the wearing state of the acoustic output device 300 based on the ultrasonic signal detected by the ultrasonic transducer receiving the ultrasonic signal. For example, when no or very little ultrasonic signal is detected, the sensor 330 determines that the acoustic output device 300 is in the wearing state, otherwise it is in the non-wearing state. In some embodiments, the sensor 330 may determine the wearing state of the acoustic output device 300 based on the ultrasonic signal emitted by the ultrasonic transducer emitting the ultrasonic signal and the ultrasonic signal detected by the ultrasonic transducer receiving the ultrasonic signal. For example, when the intensity of the emitted ultrasonic signal and the detected ultrasonic signal are consistent or tend to be consistent, the sensor 330 determines that the acoustic output device 300 is in the non-wearing state, otherwise it is in the wearing state. In some embodiments, the sensor 330 presets a second threshold value regarding the intensity difference between the emitted ultrasonic signal and the detected ultrasonic signal. Specifically, when no ultrasonic signal is detected or the difference between the emitted and detected ultrasonic signals is greater than the second threshold, the sensor 330 determines that the acoustic output device 300 is in the wearing state; when the emitted and detected ultrasonic signals have the same intensity or the difference is less than the second threshold, the sensor 330 determines that the acoustic output device 300 is in the non-wearing state. In some embodiments, the second threshold can be determined according to the required false detection probability, and the larger the second threshold, the lower the probability of false detection.

[0095] In some embodiments, when the sensor 330 detects that the wearing state of the acoustic output device 300 has changed, the output state of the acoustic output device 300 is controlled to change accordingly. When the sensor 330 determines that the acoustic output device 300 is switched from the non-wearing state to the wearing state, the acoustic output device 300 is controlled to switch to the working state, for example, the sound unit 311 is controlled to emit a sound; when the sensor 330 determines that the acoustic output device 300 is switched from the wearing state to the non-wearing state, the acoustic output device 300 is controlled to switch to the non-working state, for example, the sound unit 311 is controlled to stop emitting a sound.

[0096] Fig.13A , Fig. 13B 3 is a schematic diagram of detecting the wearing state of a non-in-ear acoustic output device according to some embodiments of the present specification. Fig.13A As shown, the first ultrasonic transducer 331 transmits an ultrasonic signal with a directionality toward the second ultrasonic transducer 332, and the second ultrasonic transducer 332 receives the ultrasonic signal. The ultrasonic signal received by the second ultrasonic transducer 332 has the same intensity as the ultrasonic signal transmitted by the first ultrasonic transducer 331 or the intensity difference is less than a second threshold value, and the sensor 330 determines that the acoustic output device 300 is in a non-wearing state. When the acoustic output device 300 is in a wearing state, as shown in FIG. Fig. 13B As shown, the path for the first ultrasonic transducer 331 to transmit the ultrasonic signal to the second ultrasonic transducer 332 is the ear ( Fig. 13B The ear region 810 is shown to be fully or partially blocked, the second ultrasonic transducer 332 receives no ultrasonic signal or the intensity difference between the received ultrasonic signal and the transmitted ultrasonic signal is greater than a second threshold, and the sensor 330 determines that the acoustic output device 300 is in a wearing state.

[0097] The acoustic output device 300 detects the wearing condition by using ultrasonic transducers disposed on both sides of the auricle. The wearing requirements of the acoustic output device 300 are relatively low, and more wearing positions of the acoustic output device 300 can be tolerated. The ultrasonic transducer has more stable signal transmission and better directivity, making the wearing detection more sensitive.

[0098] The basic concepts have been described above. Obviously, for those skilled in the art, the above detailed disclosure is only for example and does not constitute a limitation of this specification. Although not explicitly stated here, those skilled in the art may make various modifications, improvements and corrections to this specification. Such modifications, improvements and corrections are suggested in this specification, so such modifications, improvements and corrections still belong to the spirit and scope of the exemplary embodiments of this specification.

[0099] At the same time, this specification uses specific words to describe the embodiments of this specification. For example, "one embodiment", "an embodiment", and / or "some embodiments" refer to a certain feature, structure or characteristic related to at least one embodiment of this specification. Therefore, it should be emphasized and noted that "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" or "an alternative embodiment" mentioned twice or more in different positions in this specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. In addition, certain features, structures or characteristics in one or more embodiments of this specification can be appropriately combined.

[0100] In addition, unless explicitly stated in the claims, the order of the processing elements and sequences described in this specification, the use of alphanumeric characters, or the use of other names are not intended to limit the order of the processes and methods of this specification. Although the above disclosure discusses some invention embodiments that are currently considered useful through various examples, it should be understood that such details are only for illustrative purposes, and the attached claims are not limited to the disclosed embodiments. On the contrary, the claims are intended to cover all modifications and equivalent combinations that are consistent with the essence and scope of the embodiments of this specification. For example, although the system components described above can be implemented by hardware devices, they can also be implemented only by software solutions, such as installing the described system on an existing server or mobile device.

[0101] Similarly, it should be noted that in order to simplify the description disclosed in this specification and thus help understand one or more embodiments of the invention, in the above description of the embodiments of this specification, multiple features are sometimes combined into one embodiment, figure or description thereof. However, this disclosure method does not mean that the features required by the subject matter of this specification are more than the features mentioned in the claims. In fact, the features of the embodiments are less than all the features of the single embodiment disclosed above.

[0102] In some embodiments, numbers describing the number of components and attributes are used. It should be understood that such numbers used in the description of the embodiments are modified by the modifiers "about", "approximately" or "substantially" in some examples. Unless otherwise specified, "about", "approximately" or "substantially" indicate that the numbers are allowed to vary by ±20%. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters used in the specification and claims are approximate values, which may change according to the required features of individual embodiments. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should take into account the specified significant digits and adopt the general method of retaining digits. Although the numerical domains and parameters used to confirm the breadth of their range in some embodiments of this specification are approximate values, in specific embodiments, the setting of such numerical values ​​is as accurate as possible within the feasible range.

[0103] Each patent, patent application, patent application publication, and other materials, such as articles, books, specifications, publications, documents, etc., cited in this specification are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. Except for application history documents that are inconsistent with or conflicting with the contents of this specification, documents that limit the broadest scope of the claims of this specification (currently or later attached to this specification) are also excluded. It should be noted that if the descriptions, definitions, and / or use of terms in the materials attached to this specification are inconsistent or conflicting with the contents described in this specification, the descriptions, definitions, and / or use of terms in this specification shall prevail.

[0104] Finally, it should be understood that the embodiments described in this specification are only used to illustrate the principles of the embodiments of this specification. Other variations may also fall within the scope of this specification. Therefore, as an example and not a limitation, alternative configurations of the embodiments of this specification may be considered consistent with the teachings of this specification. Accordingly, the embodiments of this specification are not limited to the embodiments explicitly introduced and described in this specification.

Claims

1. An acoustic output device, comprising: A sound-generating part configured to accommodate a sound-generating unit that generates sound; A support member configured to position the sound-emitting portion near the ear but not blocking the ear hole; as well as A sensor, comprising at least one ultrasonic transducer located inside the sound-emitting part, the sensor being configured to transmit a first ultrasonic signal to the outside of the sound-emitting part through the at least one ultrasonic transducer, the sensor being further configured to detect a second ultrasonic signal through the at least one ultrasonic transducer and determine a wearing state of the acoustic output device based on the detection, the second ultrasonic signal comprising the first ultrasonic signal or a reflected signal of the first ultrasonic signal, and when the wearing state of the acoustic output device changes, resulting in a change in the second ultrasonic signal detected by the sensor, the output state of the acoustic output device changes.

2. The acoustic output device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The sound-emitting portion includes an inner wall facing the ear, and the at least one ultrasonic transducer is arranged on the inner wall.

3. The acoustic output device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The at least one ultrasonic transducer comprises a vibrating sheet configured to generate the first ultrasonic signal, wherein the frequency of the first ultrasonic signal is not less than 40 kHz, The inner wall is provided with an opening, and the first ultrasonic signal propagates toward the outside of the sound-emitting part through the opening.

4. The acoustic output device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The frequency of the first ultrasonic signal is not less than 150 kHz.

5. The acoustic output device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The directivity angle of the first ultrasonic signal ranges from 5° to 90°.

6. The acoustic output device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The area range of the opening on the inner wall is 0.5mm 2 -1cm 2 ,or The sound emitted by the sound emitting unit is guided to the outside of the sound emitting portion through the opening on the inner side wall.

7. The acoustic output device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The inner side wall is provided with a sound outlet hole, and the sound emitted by the sound emitting unit is guided out to the outside of the sound emitting part through the sound outlet hole.

8. The acoustic output device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The number of the at least one ultrasonic transducer is single, and the single ultrasonic transducer transmits the first ultrasonic signal to the outside of the sound-emitting part during a transmitting time period and detects the second ultrasonic signal during a receiving time period, and the second ultrasonic signal is a reflection signal of the first ultrasonic signal.

9. The acoustic output device according to claim 1, characterized in that: There are multiple ultrasonic transducers of the at least one ultrasonic transducer, a part of the multiple ultrasonic transducers transmit the first ultrasonic signal to the outside of the sound-emitting part, and the other parts of the multiple ultrasonic transducers detect the second ultrasonic signal, the second ultrasonic signal is a reflected signal of the first ultrasonic signal, and the multiple ultrasonic transducers are all located inside the sound-emitting part.

10. An acoustic output device, comprising: A sound-generating part configured to accommodate a sound-generating unit that generates sound; An ear hook, one end of which is connected to the sound-emitting part and is placed near the ear but not blocking the ear hole, and the other end of which is connected to the target chamber, and when the acoustic output device is worn, the sound-emitting part and the target chamber are located on both sides of the auricle respectively; The sensor comprises a first ultrasonic transducer and a second ultrasonic transducer respectively located in the sound-emitting part and the target chamber, the sensor being configured to transmit an ultrasonic signal to the other through one of the first ultrasonic transducer and the second ultrasonic transducer and to detect the ultrasonic signal through the other of the first ultrasonic transducer and the second ultrasonic transducer, the sensor being further configured to determine a wearing state of the acoustic output device based on the detection, and when the wearing state of the acoustic output device changes, resulting in a change in the ultrasonic signal detected by the sensor, the output state of the acoustic output device changes.

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