Electronic device

Abstract

The invention provides an electronic device. The electronic device includes: a flexible element having a channel; a first cover at least covering the channel; and the transduction element is connected with the flexible element. The transduction element is configured to convert energy from one form to another to deform and affect the flexible element to adjust the size of the first cover.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an electronic device. Background Art

[0002] The electronic device may include a cover (e.g., a mesh cover) disposed on or within the acoustic channel to substantially prevent foreign matter from entering the acoustic channel. To improve the acoustic performance of the electronic device, the characteristics or properties of the cover may be adjusted and determined when the electronic device is produced. The cover cannot be adjusted after the electronic device is manufactured. Summary of the invention

[0003] In some arrangements, the electronic device includes: a flexible element having a channel; a first cover covering at least the channel; and a transducer element connected to the flexible element. The transducer element is configured to convert energy from one form to another form to deform the flexible element and affect the flexible element to adjust the size of the first cover.

[0004] In some arrangements, an electronic device includes: a flexible element having an acoustic channel; and an acoustically transparent cover at least partially covering the acoustic channel. The acoustically transparent cover is configured to adjust the size of the channel between the acoustic channel and an exterior of the flexible element.

[0005] In some arrangements, an electronic device includes a flexible element having an acoustic channel and a transducer element configured to change a size, a shape, or both of the flexible element to adjust an acoustic signal transmitted through the acoustic channel. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Aspects of some arrangements of the present disclosure are best understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.It should be noted that the various structures may not be drawn to scale and that the dimensions of the various structures may be arbitrarily increased or reduced for clarity of discussion.

[0007] Figure 1 A perspective view showing an electronic device according to some arrangements of the present disclosure.

[0008] Figure 2A A top view of an electronic device according to some arrangements of the present disclosure is shown.

[0009] Figure 2B A top view of an electronic device according to some arrangements of the present disclosure is shown.

[0010] Figure 3A Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 3B Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 3CCross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 3D A top view of an electronic device according to some arrangements of the present disclosure is shown.

[0014] Figure 4A Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 4B Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 4C Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 4D Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 5A Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 5B Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 5C Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 5D Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 5E Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure.

[0023] Fig. 5F Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 5G A top view of an electronic device according to some arrangements of the present disclosure is shown.

[0025] Figure 6 A side view of an ear-worn electronic device is shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 7 A top view of an electronic device before and after adjustment of its cover is shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] The following disclosure provides many different arrangements or examples for implementing the different features of the provided subject matter. Specific examples of components and arrangements are described below to explain certain aspects of the present disclosure. Of course, these are only examples and are not intended to be limiting. For example, in the following description, forming a first feature on or on a second feature may include an arrangement in which the first feature and the second feature are formed or arranged in direct contact, and may also include an arrangement in which additional features may be formed or arranged between the first feature and the second feature, so that the first feature and the second feature may not be in direct contact. In addition, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and / or letters in various examples. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity, and does not itself dictate the relationship between the various arrangements and / or configurations discussed.

[0028] Unless otherwise specified, spatial descriptions such as "above", "below", "up", "left", "right", "lower", "top", "bottom", "vertical", "horizontal", "side", "above", "below", "upper", "above", "below", etc. are indicated relative to the orientation shown in the figure. It should be understood that the spatial descriptions used herein are for illustrative purposes only, and that embodiments of the structures described herein may be spatially arranged in any orientation or manner, provided that the advantages of the arrangements disclosed herein are not deviated by such arrangements.

[0029] The following description relates to electronic devices and wearable devices.

[0030] Figure 1 A perspective view of an electronic device 1 according to some arrangements of the present disclosure is shown. The electronic device 1 may include an acoustic device, a wearable device, and / or a wearable acoustic device for amplifying, outputting, or transmitting an audio signal (or sound wave). The electronic device 1 may be configured to output an audio signal to a user and / or input an audio signal from a user. The electronic device 1 may be configured to output an audio signal to a surrounding environment and / or input an audio signal from a surrounding environment.

[0031] The electronic device 1 may include one of a pair of electronic devices configured to be placed in the left and right ears of a user. The electronic device may include a hearing device, a hearing aid, a hearing protection device, an earphone, an earplug, or a device that can block the user's ear canal.

[0032] The electronic device 1 may include a housing 10 and an ear tip 11 that may be attached to the housing 10. The housing 10 may enclose electronic components that operate the electronic device 1 (e.g., a battery, a processor, a memory, an acoustic driver, or a source for generating an audio signal, etc.). The housing 10 may include an opening 10p through which the generated audio signal may be output to the ear tip 11, which may then guide the audio signal into the ear canal of the user. The ear tip 11 may include an attachment structure or mechanism that enables the ear tip 11 to be attached to or removed from the housing 10.

[0033] The earplug sleeve 11 may include a first portion (eg, a main body portion 111 ) and a second portion (eg, an earplug interface portion 112 ) disposed at least partially around the main body portion 111 .

[0034] The main body portion 111 may be configured to be removably attached to the housing 10. The main body portion 111 may define or have an acoustic channel (also referred to as a channel, an opening or a hole) 111c through which an audio signal is transmitted. The main body portion 111 may include an acoustic input portion (also referred to as an inlet) 111i, which is configured to be disposed adjacent to the opening 10p of the housing 10. The generated audio signal from the opening 10p may be received or input through the acoustic input portion 111i. The main body portion 111 may include an acoustic output portion (also referred to as an outlet) 111u, which is opposite to the acoustic input portion 111i and is configured to be disposed in the ear canal of the user when the electronic device 1 is worn by the user. The main body portion 111 may include a cylindrical structure, an elliptical cylindrical structure, or a polygonal column or pillar.

[0035] When the electronic device 1 is worn by a user, the earplug interface portion 112 can at least partially seal with the user's ear canal (eg, Figure 6 ). When the electronic device 1 is worn by a user, the earplug interface portion 112 may be closer to the user's body (or the user's ear canal) than the main body portion 111. The earplug interface portion 112 may be configured as a dome, or may include a spherical structure. In other arrangements, the earplug interface portion 112 may have other configurations, such as one or more radial fins.

[0036] In some arrangements, the body portion 111 and the earplug interface portion 112 can be a single unitary structure. For example, the body portion 111 and the earplug interface portion 112 can constitute an unassembled, one-piece member that can be formed in a molding or other operation. In some arrangements, the body portion 111 and the earplug interface portion 112 can constitute an assembly of separate components. For example, the earplug interface portion 112 can be bonded to at least the top end of the body portion 111 or the acoustic output portion 111u. The shape and configuration of the body portion 111 and the earplug interface portion 112 are not intended to limit the present disclosure.

[0037] In some arrangements, the body portion 111 and the earplug interface portion 112 may each include, for example, rubber, silicon, sponge, or other suitable materials. In some arrangements, the body portion 111 and the earplug interface portion 112 may each include liquid silicone rubber (LSR). The specific material used may depend on one or more factors, including the desire for biocompatibility and oleophobic properties, as well as other considerations and use case requirements.

[0038] In some arrangements, the main body portion 111 and the earplug interface portion 112 may each include a deformable element, an adjustable element, an elastic element, a soft element and / or a flexible element. For example, the main body portion 111 and the earplug interface portion 112 may each be configured to be adjustable. For example, the main body portion 111 and the earplug interface portion 112 may each be soft enough and flexible enough to allow the user to wear it comfortably for a long time. In some arrangements, the main body portion 111 and the earplug interface portion 112 may each be relatively more resistant to stress, impact, distortion or other physical or structural changes. For example, the main body portion 111 and the earplug interface portion 112 may each be elastic so that after being squeezed or deformed, the main body portion and the earplug interface portion may return to their original state. In some arrangements, when the electronic device 1 is worn by a user, the earplug interface portion 112 may conform to the user's ear canal. In some arrangements, the earplug interface portion 112 may flexibly adjust its shape to fit the user's ear canal.

[0039] In some arrangements, the body portion 111 and the earplug interface portion 112 may comprise the same material. In some arrangements, the body portion 111 and the earplug interface portion 112 may comprise different materials.

[0040] The earplug sleeve 11 may include a cover 110 disposed adjacent to the acoustic output portion 111u of the main body portion 111. The cover 110 may be acoustically transparent. In order for the earplug sleeve 11 to provide good quality audio, the acoustic channel 111c may be kept substantially free of any foreign matter that may collect in the acoustic channel 111c by providing the cover 110. The cover 110 may cover at least the acoustic channel 111c. The cover 110 may be configured to substantially prevent foreign matter, such as human waste (e.g., earwax), from entering the acoustic channel 111c.

[0041] The cover 110 may include a mesh cover. For example, the cover 110 may include an interlaced structure or a mesh structure that allows audio signals (or sound waves) or air waves to propagate. For example, the cover 110 may be formed of a mesh of wires, threads, or yarns. For example, the cover 110 may include a plurality of openings, orifices, holes, patterns, or paths (labeled as 110h in the figure). The opening 110h may be located between the acoustic channel 111c and the outside of the earplug sleeve 11 (e.g., between the acoustic channel 111c and the user's ear canal). In some arrangements, the cover 110 may include a textile, a braid, a plastic, a metal, a metal alloy, carbon fiber, silicone, other suitable materials, or composite materials. In some arrangements, the cover 110 may include a multi-layer mesh structure. In some arrangements, from a top view (e.g. Figure 2A The cover 110 may have a profile in a circular, oval, elliptical, square, triangular, polygonal, etc. The multiple openings 110h of the cover 110 may be evenly or equidistantly spaced. The multiple openings 110h of the cover 110 may have a profile in a circular, oval, elliptical, square, triangular, polygonal, etc.

[0042] about Figure 2A , 2B , 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, 5E, 5F and 5G discuss exemplary earplug sleeves in detail. The application or use of the electronic device 1 in the figure is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the present disclosure. The teachings of the present disclosure are also applicable to speakers, earphones or headphones (e.g. Figure 7 electronic device 7, or another earmuff-type device) and other acoustic devices.

[0043] Figure 2A 1 shows a top view of an electronic device according to some arrangements of the present disclosure. In some arrangements, Figure 1 The earplug sleeve 11 of the electronic device 1 may have Figure 2A Top view of .

[0044] The earplug sleeve 11 may include a deformable element 20. The deformable element 20 may be enclosed, covered, embedded and / or surrounded in the main body portion 111. The deformable element 20 may not be exposed from the main body portion 111. The dashed line is shown to present the outline of the deformable element 20. The deformable element 20 may surround the cover 110 or be disposed around the cover 110. For example, the cover 110 may be at least partially exposed from the acoustic output portion 111u, and the deformable element 20 may be disposed between the cover 110 and the outermost boundary of the main body portion 111.

[0045] In some arrangements, the deformable element 20 may include a plurality of segments 20s1, 20s2, 20s3, and 20s4 that collectively surround the cover 110. The segments 20s1, 20s2, 20s3, and 20s4 of the deformable element 20 are spaced apart from one another.

[0046] The segments 20s1, 20s2, 20s3, and 20s4 of the deformable element 20 may be symmetrically arranged with respect to the center of the cover 110. The segments 20s1, 20s2, 20s3, and 20s4 of the deformable element 20 may be spaced an equal distance from each other. The segments 20s1, 20s2, 20s3, and 20s4 of the deformable element 20 may have different characteristics or properties (e.g., width, material, deformation type, deformation orientation, deformation direction, deformation degree, etc.).

[0047] Deformable element 20 may be deformed without experiencing cracking, rupture, or fracture. Deformation of deformable element 20 may include extension, compression, depression, protrusion, shearing, bending, twisting, etc. For example, the size and / or shape (or dimension) of deformable element 20 may be changed from a reference configuration to a current configuration. A configuration is defined as the set of positions of all particles comprising deformable element 20. Dimensions may be measurable extents (e.g., length, breadth, depth, or height), forms, or shapes.

[0048] The deformable element 20 may be deformed (e.g., exhibit a change in size and / or shape) by an external force (e.g., stretching, pushing, shearing, bending, or twisting), a change in an electric field (or magnetic field or electromagnetic field), a change in temperature, a change in moisture content or a chemical reaction, etc. In some arrangements, the deformation of the deformable element 20 may be automatically controlled after the electronic device 1 is manufactured or manually controlled by a user.

[0049] In some arrangements, deformable element 20 may include a transducing element or transducer that can convert energy from one form to another. In some arrangements, deformable element 20 may include a piezoelectric material that can exhibit a piezoelectric effect (to convert mechanical energy to electrical energy) and a converse piezoelectric effect (to convert electrical energy to mechanical energy). For example, deformable element 20 may deform when subjected to or stimulated by an electric field.

[0050] In some arrangements, the type, orientation, direction, and degree of deformation of the deformable element 20 can be controlled by the magnitude and sign of the voltage applied across the deformable element 20.

[0051] In some arrangements, when producing the electronic device 1, one or more factors may be considered and predetermined to achieve the desired deformation of the deformable element 20 (and thus the desired acoustic performance). One or more factors include different materials of the body portion 111 (with respect to the Figure 4A Further description), different widths of the main body portion 111 (about Figure 4BFurther description), different materials of the deformable element 20 (about Figure 4C further described) and different widths of the deformable element 20 (about Figure 4D further described).

[0052] Figure 2B 1 shows a top view of an electronic device according to some arrangements of the present disclosure. In some arrangements, Figure 1 The earplug sleeve 11 of the electronic device 1 may have Figure 2B Top view of . Figure 2B The earplug sleeve 11 is similar to Figure 2A The earplug sleeve 11 in the embodiment of the present invention is different from the earplug sleeve 11 in the embodiment of the present invention, except for the differences described below.

[0053] The earplug sleeve 11 may include a deformable element 21. The deformable element 21 may include an annular structure. The deformable element 21 may be a single integral structure. The deformable element 21 may be deformed in a geometrically symmetrical manner and thus allow for geometrically symmetrical deformation of the main body portion 111 and / or the cover 110.

[0054] Figure 3A A cross-sectional view of an electronic device according to some arrangements of the present disclosure is shown. In some arrangements, Figure 1 The earplug sleeve 11 of the electronic device 1 may have Figure 3A In some arrangements, Figure 3A The cross-sectional view in Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of the earplug sleeve 11 along line AA'.

[0055] The earplug interface portion 112 may extend from the top end of the main body portion 111 or the acoustic output portion 111u. The earplug interface portion 112 may be at least partially separated from the main body portion 111. The space (not labeled in the figure) between the earplug interface portion 112 and the main body portion 111 may be configured or reserved for deformation of the main body portion 111 (with respect to the embodiment of the present invention). Figure 6 further described).

[0056] The cover 110 may be disposed across the acoustic channel 111c of the main body portion 111. The cover 110 may extend into the main body portion 111. When the electronic device 1 is worn by a user, the cover 110 may separate the inner space of the acoustic channel 111c from the ear canal of the user.

[0057] Cover 110 may be snapped into place or held in place using an adhesive, glue, etc. Cover 110 may be adhered to body portion 111 such that cover 110 may follow movement of body portion 111. Cover 110 may be adhered to body portion 111 such that when deformable element 20 is deformed (e.g., exhibits a change in size and / or shape), the size and / or shape of cover 110 (and the size and / or shape of its plurality of openings 110h) may change along body portion 111.

[0058] The deformable element 20 may extend along the acoustic channel 111c of the main body portion 111. The end 201 of the deformable element 20 may be closer to the acoustic output portion 111u, and the end 202 (or the opposite end) of the deformable element 20 may be closer to the acoustic input portion 111i. The end 201 of the deformable element 20 may be covered by the main body portion 111. In some arrangements, the cover 110 may be closer to the acoustic output portion 111u than the end 201 of the deformable element 20. For example, the cover 110 may be disposed at a higher elevation than the end 201 of the deformable element 20 relative to the end 202. The end 202 of the deformable element 20 may be exposed from the main body portion 111. In some arrangements, the end 202 of the deformable element 20 may be in contact with the encapsulation layer 30e. In some arrangements, the end 202 of the deformable element 20 may be covered by the main body portion 111.

[0059] In some arrangements, deformable element 20 may be configured to receive a signal (which may include a control signal from electronic component 30 or an instruction from a user) and deform (e.g., exhibit a change in size and / or shape) based on the signal. For example, deformable element 20 may be configured to deform automatically or manually after being manufactured.

[0060] In some arrangements, the deformable element 20 may be configured to deform the body portion 111 and / or the cover 110 based on a signal. For example, the deformable element 20 may be configured to change the size, shape, or both of the body portion 111 based on a signal. For example, the deformable element 20 may be configured to change the size, shape, or both of the cover 110 based on a signal. For example, the deformable element 20 may be configured to deform the body portion 111 and / or the cover 110 automatically or manually after being manufactured.

[0061] For example, deformation of body portion 111 may follow deformation of deformable element 20. For example, the size and / or shape of body portion 111 may follow the size and / or shape of deformable element 20. In some arrangements, the interior space of acoustic channel 111c may change along body portion 111.

[0062] For example, the size and / or shape of the cover 110 may vary along the body portion 111. In addition, the size and / or shape of the plurality of openings 110h of the cover 110 may also vary along the body portion 111.

[0063] In some arrangements, the earbud sleeve 11 may include a user device to provide manually operable control of the deformable element 20. The user device may include any device capable of communicating via a network, such as a home network and / or an access network. The user device may include an interactive interface, such as a graphical user interface (GUI). Examples of user devices may include a mobile phone, a tablet, a personal computer, or another device that can provide the ability to selectively deform the deformable element 20. For example, the user device may provide multiple modes for the user to select from.

[0064] In some arrangements, the earplug sleeve 11 may include an electronic component 30. The electronic component 30 may include a system-in-package (SiP). In some arrangements, the electronic component 30 may include a control component, a data conversion component, a processing component, a storage component, a transmission component, or a combination thereof. In some arrangements, the electronic component 30 may include an analog-to-digital converter.

[0065] In some arrangements, the electronic component 30 may be configured to control or drive the deformation of the deformable element 20. In some arrangements, the electronic component 30 may be configured to control the size and / or shape of the deformable element 20. In some arrangements, the electronic component 30 may be configured to control the size and / or shape of the internal space of the main body portion 111 and the acoustic channel 111c by deforming the deformable element 20. In some arrangements, the electronic component 30 may be configured to control the size and / or shape of the cover 110 (the size and / or shape of the plurality of openings 110h thereof) by deforming the deformable element 20.

[0066] In some arrangements, the electronic component 30 may be configured to automatically control the deformation of the deformable element 20. For example, the electronic component 30 may be configured to determine the frequency response in the ear canal of the user when the electronic device 1 is worn by the user, and use the frequency response to determine whether the desired acoustic performance has been achieved. In some arrangements, the electronic component 30 may be configured to control the deformation of the deformable element 20 based on the determination.

[0067] For example, the earplug sleeve 11 may further include: an acoustic driver or sound source for generating an audio signal (or test sound wave) into the ear canal; and an input transducer configured to detect reflected sound waves from the ear canal as an indicator of frequency response. The input transducer may be a microphone, such as an ear canal microphone, an in-ear microphone, an in-ear microphone, a bone conduction unit, etc.

[0068] For example, electronics assembly 30 may be configured to provide a control signal (e.g., voltage) to deformable element 20 (which may include a piezoelectric material) based on the determination. The type (e.g., extension, compression, depression, protrusion, shear, bending, torsion, etc.), orientation, direction, and degree of deformation of deformable element 20 may be controlled by the magnitude and sign of the voltage applied from electronics assembly 30 across deformable element 20.

[0069] The electronic component 30 may be placed on the carrier 30c. The electronic component 30 may be electrically connected to one or more of the other electrical components (if present), to the carrier 30c, and to the deformable element 20, and the electrical connection may be achieved by means of flip chip or wire bonding technology. The carrier 30c may be, for example, a flexible printed circuit (FPC) or a printed circuit board, such as a paper copper foil laminate, a composite copper foil laminate, or a polymer-impregnated fiberglass copper foil laminate. In some arrangements, the carrier 30c may include interconnect structures, such as a redistribution layer (RDL), a ground layer, and a feed line. In some arrangements, the carrier 30c may include one or more conductive pads (not shown in the figure) close to, adjacent to, or embedded in a surface 30c1 of the carrier 30c and exposed at the surface. The carrier 30c may include a solder resist (or solder mask) (not shown in the figure) on the surface 30c1 of the carrier 30c to fully expose the conductive pads or expose at least a portion of the conductive pads for electrical connection.

[0070] The electronic component 30 and the carrier 30c may be electrically connected to the deformable element 20 via a flexible connection element 30f. In some arrangements, the flexible connection element 30f may include an electrical connection element such as an FPC, a conductive line, a redistribution layer (RDL), or a combination thereof.

[0071] The electronic component 30 may be covered by an encapsulation layer 30e. The encapsulation layer 30e may be disposed on the carrier 30c to encapsulate the electronic component 30. The encapsulation layer 30e may be disposed on the opposite side of the carrier 30c. The encapsulation layer 30e may surround the edge of the electronic component 30 and may further cover the active surface and / or the inactive surface of the electronic component 30.

[0072] The encapsulation layer 30e may cover a portion of the flexible connection element 30f. The flexible connection element 30f may extend through the encapsulation layer 30e and the body portion 111 to connect to the deformable element 20. The encapsulation layer 30e may include an epoxy resin with a filler, a molding material (e.g., an epoxy molding material or another molding material), a polyimide, a phenolic compound or material, a material with silicone dispersed therein, or a combination thereof.

[0073] In some arrangements, the electronic component 30 may be integrated into the main body portion 111 (e.g., by an insert molding process) to shorten the flexible connection element 30f and reduce the transmission distance of the control signal from the electronic component 30 to the deformable element 20 through the flexible connection element 30f. In some arrangements, the electronic component 30 may be integrated into an attachment structure or mechanism that enables the earplug sleeve 11 to be attached to or removed from the housing 10.

[0074] Figure 3B Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure. Figure 3B The earplug sleeve 11 is similar to Figure 3A The present invention is similar to the earplug sleeve 11 in the embodiment of the present invention, except that the electronic component 30 and the carrier 30c can be arranged in the housing 10. The opening 10p through which the generated audio signal can be output is arranged in the acoustic passage 111c. By arranging the electronic component 30 and the carrier 30c in the housing 10, the electronic component 30 and the carrier 30c can be easily replaced and maintained.

[0075] The location, function and number of the electronic components 30 in the electronic device 1 are not intended to limit the present disclosure. For example, due to design requirements, there may be any number of electronic components in the electronic device 1.

[0076] Figure 3C and Figure 3D Cross-sectional and top views of electronic devices are shown according to some arrangements of the present disclosure. Figure 3C and Figure 3D The earplug sleeve 11 in the embodiment may be after the deformable element 20 is deformed along the direction d1 and causes (or affects) the main body 111 to deform the cover 110. Figure 2A and Figure 3A Configuration of the earplug sleeve 11 in.

[0077] In contrast, to improve the acoustic performance of the electronic device, the characteristics or properties of the cover (e.g., type, thickness, number of layers, material, size, shape, etc.) can be adjusted and determined when the electronic device is produced. The cover cannot be adjusted after the electronic device is manufactured.

[0078] However, due to other factors, such as differences in ear shape and size, volume, audio file, surrounding environment, etc., the acoustic performance may not be optimal for the user.

[0079] By disposing the deformable element 20 in the main body portion 111 to allow automatic or manual deformation of the main body portion 111 and / or the cover 110, the acoustic transmittance, acoustic resistance (or acoustic impedance), acoustic damping and / or filtering effect of the acoustic signal (or sound wave) can be adjusted and modified after manufacturing the electronic device. Therefore, the desired acoustic performance can be achieved and the user experience can be enhanced.

[0080] For example, the size and shape of the acoustic channel 111c are important to the overall acoustic performance of the electronic device 1. Since the main body portion 111 may be adjustable, the main body portion 111 may be deformed due to the deformation of the deformable element 20, and thus the deformable element 20 may be configured to adjust and modify the acoustic performance of the electronic device 1. For example, the acoustic channel 111c may be sized to tune the frequency response of the electronic device 1 by deforming the deformable element 20.

[0081] For example, the size and / or shape of the cover 110 (and the size and / or shape of the plurality of openings 110h) may adjust, influence and / or define the acoustic transmittance, acoustic resistance (or acoustic impedance), acoustic damping and / or filtering effect of an acoustic signal (or sound wave) passing through (or transmitted through) the cover 110. Since the size and / or shape of the cover 110 may be changed along the main body portion 111, the deformable element 20 may be configured to adjust and modify the acoustic performance of the electronic device 1. For example, by deforming the deformable element 20, the cover 110 and its plurality of openings 110h may be deformed or adjusted, and the transmission of acoustic signals (or sound waves) and air waves through the plurality of openings 110h of the cover 110 may be controlled to achieve desired acoustic performance. For example, at least two of the openings 110h have different sizes and / or different shapes to adjust ventilation.

[0082] Furthermore, since the acoustic performance can be enhanced without changing or replacing the parts and elements of the electronic device 1 , modifications involving changes in system design or device characteristics are facilitated.

[0083] The number of segments of deformable element 20 may be 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or more. More segments of deformable element 20 allow for more accurate control of the deformation of body portion 111 and / or cover 110. For example, body portion 111 may expand or contract along different directions. For example, body portion 111 may expand or contract along multiple directions. For example, cover 110 may expand or contract along different directions. For example, cover 110 may expand or contract along multiple directions.

[0084] Figure 4A Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure. Figure 4A The earplug sleeve 11 is similar to Figure 3A The earplug sleeve 11 in the embodiment of the present invention is different in that the main body portion 111 includes a portion (or component) 111a connected to the earplug interface portion 112 and a portion (or component) 111b connected to the portion 111a.

[0085] Portion 111a may be connected between earplug interface portion 112 and portion 111b. Portion 111a and earplug interface portion 112 may include the same material. Portion 111a and earplug interface portion 112 may be a single unitary structure. Portion 111a and earplug interface portion 112 may share the same characteristics or properties. For example, portion 111a and earplug interface portion 112 may have substantially the same elasticity, ductility, and / or expandability.

[0086] Portion 111b may have characteristics or properties that are different from those of portion 111a. For example, portion 111a may be softer than portion 111b. Portion 111a may have greater elasticity than portion 111b. Portion 111a may have greater ductility than portion 111b. Portion 111a may have greater ductility than portion 111b. Portion 111a may have greater ductility than portion 111b.

[0087] For example, portion 111b may be harder than portion 111a. The hardness of portion 111b may be greater than the hardness of portion 111a. Portion 111b may include rubber, such as thermosetting rubber or hard rubber, or other hard materials. In some arrangements, portion 111b may be or include silicon (Si), glass or other suitable materials. Portions 111a and 111b may be formed using a two-shot molding process, such as a two-shot injection process.

[0088] Portion 111b may constrain or limit the deformation of deformable element 20. For example, end 201 of deformable element 20 may be a relatively free end (or an end that can be deformed more easily), and end 202 of deformable element 20 may be a relatively fixed end (or an end that is more difficult to deform). Thus, end 201 of deformable element 20 may be deformed to allow for more accurate control of the deformation of body portion 111 and / or cover 110, while end 202 of deformable element 20 is substantially fixed. In some arrangements, the degree of deformation of portion 111a may be greater than the degree of deformation of portion 111b. The size and / or shape of cover 110 may change primarily along portion 111a.

[0089] Figure 4B Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure. Figure 4B The earplug sleeve 11 is similar to Figure 4A The earplug sleeve 11 in the embodiment of the present invention is different in that the width 111bw of the portion 111b is greater than the width 111aw of the portion 111a. The portions 111a and 111b may comprise the same material. In some arrangements, the portions 111a and 111b may comprise different materials, such as Figure 4A as shown in .

[0090] Similar to Figure 4A, the portion 111b having a larger width may constrain or limit the deformation of the deformable element 20. Thus, the end 201 of the deformable element 20 may be deformed to allow for more accurate control of the deformation of the main body portion 111 and / or the cover 110, while the end 202 of the deformable element 20 is substantially fixed. In some arrangements, the deformation degree of the portion 111a may be greater than the deformation degree of the portion 111b. The size and / or shape of the cover 110 may change primarily along the portion 111a.

[0091] Figure 4C Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure. Figure 4C The earplug sleeve 11 is similar to Figure 3A The earplug sleeve 11 in the embodiment of the present invention is different in that the deformable element 20 includes a portion 20a and a portion 20b connected to the portion 20a. The portion 20a is arranged closer to the cover 110 than the portion 20b.

[0092] Portion 20b may have characteristics or properties that are different from those of portion 20a. For example, portion 20a may be softer than portion 20b. Portion 20a may have greater elasticity than portion 20b. Portion 20a may have greater ductility than portion 20b. Portion 20a may have greater ductility than portion 20b. Portion 20a may have greater ductility than portion 20b.

[0093] For example, portion 20b may be stiffer than portion 20a. The stiffness of portion 20b may be greater than the stiffness of portion 20a. Portions 20a and 20b of deformable element 20 may each include a piezoelectric material, which may be crystalline, ceramic, or polymeric. In some arrangements, the degree of deformation of portion 20a may be greater than the degree of deformation of portion 20b. The response of portion 20a relative to a voltage applied across deformable element 20 may be greater than the response of portion 20b.

[0094] End 201 of deformable element 20 may be a relatively free end (or an end that can be deformed more easily), and end 202 of deformable element 20 may be a relatively fixed end (or an end that is more difficult to deform). Thus, end 201 of deformable element 20 may be deformable to allow for more accurate control of deformation of body portion 111 and / or cover 110, while end 202 of deformable element 20 is substantially fixed.

[0095] Figure 4D Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure. Figure 4D The earplug sleeve 11 is similar to Figure 4C The earplug sleeve 11 in the embodiment of the present invention is different in that the width 20bw of the portion 20b is greater than the width 20aw of the portion 20a. The portions 20a and 20b may comprise the same material. In some arrangements, the portions 20a and 20b may comprise different materials, such as Figure 4C as shown in .

[0096] Similar to Figure 4C , the end 201 of the deformable element 20 can be a relatively free end because the width 20aw is smaller than the width 20bw. Therefore, the end 201 of the deformable element 20 can be deformed to allow more accurate control of the deformation of the main body portion 111 and / or the cover 110, while the end 202 of the deformable element 20 is substantially fixed. In some arrangements, due to the material selection and width design of the deformable element 20 and the earplug sleeve 11, the overall shape and appearance of the earplug 11 can be maintained, so that the earplug 11 can still be worn in the ear canal of the user while playing the role of adjusting ventilation and achieving the desired acoustic performance.

[0097] Figure 5A Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure. Figure 5A The earplug sleeve 11 is similar to Figure 4A The earplug sleeve 11 in the embodiment of the present invention is different in that Figure 5A The earplug sleeve 11 in the embodiment includes two covers 50 and 51. Figure 5G ), covers 50 and 51 overlap. In some arrangements, cover 51 is positioned closer to deformable element 20 than cover 50, so when deformable element 20 is deformed, the degree of deformation of cover 51 may be greater than that of cover 50. In some arrangements, the size and / or shape of covers 50 and 51 may be different. In some arrangements, the size and / or shape of the plurality of openings 50h and 51h of covers 50 and 51 may be different.

[0098] In some arrangements, the deformation of the cover 50 (e.g., the change in size and / or shape and the change in size and / or shape of the plurality of openings 50h) and the deformation of the cover 51 (e.g., the change in size and / or shape and the change in size and / or shape of the plurality of openings 51h) can be controlled separately. For example, the cover 50 or the cover 51 can be deformed separately to provide a rough adjustment of the acoustic transmittance, acoustic resistance (or acoustic impedance), acoustic damping and / or filtering effect of an acoustic signal (or sound wave).

[0099] In some arrangements, deformation of covers 50 and 51 may together provide fine tuning.

[0100] Figure 5B Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure. Figure 5B The earplug sleeve 11 is similar to Figure 5A The earplug sleeve 11 in the embodiment of the present invention is different in that the cover 50 is arranged closer to the deformable element (ie, Figure 2A The cover 51 is disposed closer to the deformable element than the cover 50 (ie, Figure 2ASection 20s1 of the deformable element 20).

[0101] In some arrangements, the deformation of the covers 50 and 51 may be provided by a deformable element (ie, Figure 2A For example, since the cover 50 is positioned closer to the segment 20s2, the deformation of the cover 50 can be controlled by the segment 20s2. For example, the segment 20s1 is configured to adjust the cover 51 along a first direction (e.g., Figure 5G For example, the segment 20s2 is configured to adjust the deformation of the cover 50 along the second direction (eg, Figure 5G Deformation in the direction d3).

[0102] In some arrangements, the deformation effect of segment 20s2 on cover 50 may be greater than that of segment 20s1. In some arrangements, the force (e.g., pulling force, pushing force, shearing force, bending force, or torsional force) of segment 20s2 on cover 50 may be greater than that of segment 20s1.

[0103] In some arrangements, when segment 20s2 deforms, cover 50 may deform to a greater extent than cover 51. The reaction of cover 50 may be greater than the reaction of cover 51 due to the voltage applied across segment 20s2.

[0104] Figure 5C and 5D Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure. Figure 5C and 5D The earplug sleeve 11 is similar to Figure 5A In some arrangements, Figure 5C The cross-sectional view in Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of the earplug sleeve 11 along line AA', and Figure 5D The cross-sectional view in Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of the earplug sleeve 11 along line BB'.

[0105] exist Figure 5C In the embodiment, the segments 20s1 and 20s2 may be configured to control the deformation of the cover 50. The segments 20s1 and 20s2 may be formed by the portion 111a of the main body portion 111 (which may be softer than the portion 111b, such as Figure 4A , or may be narrower than portion 111b, such as Figure 4B ) is connected to the cover 50. The portion 111a of the body portion 111 may allow deformation of portions of the segments 20s1 and 20s2 adjacent to the cover 50 (eg, upper portions).

[0106] The segments 20s1 and 20s2 may be formed by the portion 111b of the main body portion 111 (which may be harder than the portion 111a, such as Figure 4A or may be wider than portion 111a, as shown in Figure 4B ) is connected to the cover 51. The portion 111b of the main body portion 111 may constrain or limit the deformation of the portion (e.g., the lower portion) of the segments 20s1 and 20s2 adjacent to the cover 51. Therefore, the portion 111b of the main body portion 111 may constrain or limit the deformation of the cover 51. For example, Figure 5G As shown in , the cover 50 can be stretched or expanded from the opposite direction, while the cover 51 can remain substantially unchanged. However, in some arrangements, the portion 111b of the main body portion 111 can be moved by the segments 20s1 and 20s2, but the deformation degree of the portion 111b is less than the deformation degree of the portion 111a. Therefore, the deformation degree of the cover 51 is less than the deformation degree of the cover 50.

[0107] exist Figure 5D In the embodiment of the present invention, sections 20s3 and 20s4 may be configured to control deformation of cover 51 .

[0108] The sections 20s3 and 20s4 may be formed by the portion 111a of the main body portion 111 (which may be softer than the portion 111b, such as Figure 4A , or may be narrower than portion 111b, such as Figure 4B ) is connected to the cover 51. The portion 111a of the body portion 111 may allow deformation of the portions of the segments 20s3 and 20s4 adjacent to the cover 51. The portion 111b of the body portion 111 may be lower than the cover 51 and may not be connected to the cover 51.

[0109] The sections 20s3 and 20s4 may not extend to be adjacent to the cover 50 to reduce the deformation influence of the sections 20s3 and 20s4 on the cover 50. Therefore, the deformation degree of the cover 50 is smaller than that of the cover 51.

[0110] Figure 5E Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure. Figure 5E The earplug sleeve 11 is similar to Figure 5D The earplug sleeve 11 of the embodiment of the present invention is different in that the main body portion 111 further includes a portion 111n connected to the cover 50 to restrict or limit the deformation of the cover 50. The portion 111n and the portion 111b may include the same material. The portion 111a of the main body portion 111 may allow the deformation of the portion of the segments 20s3 and 20s4 adjacent to the cover 51. Therefore, the deformation degree of the cover 51 is higher than the deformation degree of the cover 50.

[0111] Fig. 5F Cross-sectional views of electronic devices are shown in accordance with some arrangements of the present disclosure. Fig. 5F The earplug sleeve 11 is similar to Figure 5C The earplug sleeve 11 in the embodiment of the present invention is different in that the section 20s1 can be configured to control the deformation of the cover 50 and the section 20s2 can be configured to control the deformation of the cover 51.

[0112] Additionally or alternatively, segment 20s3 may be configured to control the deformation of cover 50, and segment 20s4 may be configured to control the deformation of cover 51. In order to allow covers 50 and 51 to expand or contract independently in multiple different directions, deformable element 20 may have more segments to allow for more accurate control of the deformation of covers 50 and 51.

[0113] Figure 6 A side view of an ear-worn electronic device 1 is shown according to some arrangements of the present disclosure.

[0114] When the electronic device 1 is worn by a user, the earplug interface portion 112 can seal the user's ear canal, the deformable element 20 is deformed (e.g., exhibits a change in size and / or shape), and the size and / or shape of the main body portion 111 follows the size and / or shape of the deformable element 20. Since a space is predefined between the earplug interface portion 112 and the main body portion 111, the main body portion 111 and / or the cover 110 can be deformed while the earplug interface portion 112 is comfortably in place.

[0115] Figure 7 A top view of an electronic device 7 before and after adjustment of its cover 70 is shown according to some arrangements of the present disclosure. The electronic device 7 may include earphones or headphones. The cover 70 may have the same or similar configuration as the cover 110, and for the sake of brevity, the same or similar details of the cover 70 are not repeated here. The electronic device 7 may have a flexible portion 71, which may have the same or similar configuration as the earplug interface portion 112. The deformable element 20 may be configured to adjust and modify the acoustic performance of the electronic device 7. For example, by deforming the deformable element 20, the cover 70 thereof may be deformed or adjusted, and the transmission of acoustic signals (or sound waves) and air waves through multiple openings of the cover 70 may be controlled to achieve desired acoustic performance. For example, at least two of the openings of the cover 70 have different sizes and / or different shapes.

[0116] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" may include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0117] As used herein, the terms "conductive," "electrically conductive," and "conductivity" refer to the ability to carry an electric current. Conductive materials are materials that present little or no resistance to the flow of electric current. One unit of measurement for conductivity is Siemens per meter (S / m). Typically, a conductive material is one that has a conductivity greater than about 104 S / m, for example at least 10 5 S / m or at least 10 6 S / m of a material. The conductivity of a material sometimes varies with temperature. Unless otherwise specified, the conductivity of a material is measured at room temperature.

[0118] As used herein, the terms "approximately," "substantially," "generally," "about," and "about" are used to describe and explain minor variations. When used in conjunction with an event or circumstance, these terms may refer to instances where the event or circumstance occurred exactly as well as instances where the event or circumstance occurred very approximately. For example, when used in conjunction with a numerical value, these terms may refer to a range of variation of less than or equal to ±10% of the numerical value, such as less than or equal to ±5%, less than or equal to ±4%, less than or equal to ±3%, less than or equal to ±2%, less than or equal to ±1%, less than or equal to ±0.5%, less than or equal to ±0.1%, or less than or equal to ±0.05%. For example, if the difference between two numerical values ​​is less than or equal to ±10% of the average of the values, such as less than or equal to ±5%, less than or equal to ±4%, less than or equal to ±3%, less than or equal to ±2%, less than or equal to ±1%, less than or equal to ±0.5%, less than or equal to ±0.1%, or less than or equal to ±0.05%, then the two values ​​may be considered to be "substantially" the same or equal. For example, "substantially" parallel can refer to an angle range of less than or equal to ±10° relative to 0°, such as less than or equal to ±5°, less than or equal to ±4°, less than or equal to ±3°, less than or equal to ±2°, less than or equal to ±1°, less than or equal to ±0.5°, less than or equal to ±0.1°, or less than or equal to ±0.05°. For example, "substantially" perpendicular can refer to an angle range of less than or equal to ±10° relative to 90°, such as less than or equal to ±5°, less than or equal to ±4°, less than or equal to ±3°, less than or equal to ±2°, less than or equal to ±1°, less than or equal to ±0.5°, less than or equal to ±0.1°, or less than or equal to ±0.05°.

[0119] In addition, amounts, ratios and other numerical values ​​are sometimes presented herein in a range format. It should be understood that such a range format is used for the sake of convenience and brevity, and should be flexibly construed to include not only the values ​​explicitly specified as the limits of the range, but also all individual values ​​or sub-ranges encompassed within the range, as if each value and sub-range were explicitly specified.

[0120] Although the present disclosure has been described and illustrated with reference to the specific embodiments of the present disclosure, these descriptions and illustrations are not restrictive. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be replaced without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims. The illustrations may not necessarily be drawn to scale. Due to manufacturing processes and tolerances, there may be differences between the process reproduction in the present disclosure and the actual equipment. There may be other embodiments that are not specifically described in the present disclosure. The description and drawings should be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. Modifications may be made to make specific situations, materials, material compositions, methods or processes suitable for the goals, spirit and scope of the present disclosure. All such modifications are deemed to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although the disclosed method has been described herein with reference to specific operations performed in a specific order, it should be understood that these operations may be combined, subdivided or reordered to form equivalent methods without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure. Therefore, unless specifically indicated herein, the order and grouping of operations are not limitations of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An electronic device, comprising: a flexible member having a channel; a first cover covering at least the channel; as well as A transducing element is connected to the flexible element and is configured to convert energy from one form to another form to deform the flexible element and affect the flexible element to adjust the size of the first cover. 2 . The electronic device according to claim 1 , wherein the transducing element is at least partially embedded in the flexible element.

3. The electronic device according to claim 2, wherein the flexible element comprises a first portion and a second portion connected to the first portion, wherein when the electronic device is worn by a user, the second portion is closer to the user's body than the first portion, and wherein the transducing element is at least partially embedded in the first portion. 4 . The electronic device according to claim 3 , wherein the first portion comprises a first component connected to the second portion and a second component connected to the first component, and wherein ductility of the first component is greater than ductility of the second component. The electronic device according to claim 4 , wherein the first cover is connected to the first member. The electronic device of claim 1 , wherein the first cover includes an opening, and a size of the opening is configured to be adjusted by the transducing element. The electronic device according to claim 1 , wherein the transducing element comprises a plurality of segments separated from each other.

8. The electronic device according to claim 1, further comprising: A second cover overlaps the first cover. 9 . The electronic device according to claim 8 , wherein a degree of deformation of the second cover adjusted by the transducing element is different from a degree of deformation of the first cover adjusted by the transducing element. 10 . The electronic device of claim 4 , wherein a width of the first component is smaller than a width of the second component in a cross-sectional view.

11. An electronic device comprising: a flexible member having an acoustic channel; as well as An acoustically transparent cover at least partially covers the acoustic passage and is configured to adjust a size of a passage between the acoustic passage and an exterior of the flexible element. The electronic device according to claim 11 , wherein the sound-transmissive cover is disposed across the acoustic channel. 13 . The electronic device of claim 11 , wherein the sound-transmissive cover is configured to separate the acoustic channel from an ear canal of a user when the electronic device is worn by the user.

14. The electronic device according to claim 11, further comprising: A transducing element is at least partially disposed in the flexible element and is configured to adjust the size of the passage through the flexible element.

15. The electronic device according to claim 12, further comprising: An electronic component is disposed adjacent to the flexible element and is configured to drive deformation of the acoustically transparent cover.

16. An electronic device comprising: a flexible member having an acoustic channel; as well as A transducing element is configured to change a size, a shape, or both of the flexible element to adjust an acoustic signal transmitted through the acoustic channel.

17. The electronic device according to claim 16, wherein the transducing element comprises a first section and a second section separated from the first section, and the electronic device further comprises: A control assembly is configured to control deformation of at least one of the first segment or the second segment.

18. The electronic device of claim 17, wherein the first section has different characteristics or properties than the second section.

19. The electronic device according to claim 17, further comprising: A first sound-transmitting cover covers at least the acoustic channel, wherein at least one of the first section or the second section is configured to adjust a size of the first sound-transmitting cover.

20. The electronic device according to claim 19, further comprising: A second sound-transmitting cover at least covers the acoustic channel, wherein the first section is configured to adjust deformation of the first sound-transmitting cover in a first direction, and the second section is configured to adjust deformation of the second sound-transmitting cover in a different second direction.

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