Child wireless earpiece with integrated padded housing

Abstract

A padded audio device for mounting on a child's car seat is disclosed. The device is equipped with multiple speakers embodied in the form of earphones housed within a comfortable padded shell. A logic controller coupled with a Bluetooth radio enables wireless connectivity of the device with an audio source. A parental control function ensures that a parent or guardian can control the audio volume to prevent hearing damage to the child. The device can ensure that only the child can hear the audio, providing an undisturbed driving experience for the parent / guardian driving the vehicle. A strap or similar securing mechanism can enable quick and easy attachment of the device to the car seat.

Description

[0001] Priority Statement This application is a non-provisional patent application of provisional patent application US63 / 753,257, filed on February 3, 2025, and claims priority to that provisional patent application. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to children's audio devices, and more specifically, to a wireless Bluetooth™ headset kit specifically designed to provide children with a safe and personalized audio experience, integrated into a padded housing. The housing is configured for comfortable mounting on a child car seat headrest, providing children with an inconvenience-free audio system that allows them to listen to their own personal movies, music, and / or other audio content. Background Technology

[0003] Parents typically use audio devices for their children's education and entertainment. Headphones and / or in-ear headphones are commonly used to deliver audio of stories, music, shows, or movies to the ears of both children and adults. However, parents are increasingly concerned about their children's exposure to noise through personal audio devices, including headphones and in-ear headphones. A recent survey by CS Mott Children's Hospital revealed that 64% of parents reported their children aged 5-12 using headphones or in-ear headphones. This widespread use among young children presents several challenges and issues: Hearing Health: It is well known that prolonged exposure to loud noise through headphones can damage children's hearing because their auditory systems are still developing. Therefore, parents need solutions that allow them to limit the volume to protect their children's hearing.

[0004] Safety and comfort: Traditional headphones may not fit children well, potentially causing discomfort or causing them to fall off easily. In such cases, a padded shell that fits securely against a child's head can solve these problems.

[0005] Car Travel: Many parents report their children using audio devices in the car. Unfortunately, there are currently no devices on the market that can be easily mounted on car seat headrests. Such a device would provide a safe and convenient solution for entertainment during travel.

[0006] Furthermore, according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 8% of fatal car crashes, 14% of injury crashes, and 13% of all reported vehicle accidents in 2021 were classified as "distraction-related accidents," meaning that an distracted driver was involved at the time of the accident. The likelihood of vehicle accidents would be reduced if devices existed that could entertain children uninterrupted while the car is in motion, without interfering with or distracting the driver. Such devices are preferably designed to provide a silent experience for the driver, as the volume is only loud enough for a child to hear and far below audio levels that could potentially damage a child's hearing.

[0007] Autism and Sensory Sensitivity: For children with autism or sensory processing issues, wireless headphones mounted in a car seat rather than worn directly on the child help provide an effective, undisturbed audio experience. The integrated installation design does not create physical barriers to their entertainment, providing a sensory-unoverload-free experience for these children. The padded, integrated design offers a particularly comfortable solution for these children.

[0008] Parental Controls: Many parents struggle to limit their children's headphone use, with only 57% saying they would try to restrict usage time. All-in-one devices with built-in volume and time limits can help address this issue.

[0009] Durability: Children's electronic products often need to withstand rough use. A padded, one-piece design provides better protection for the headphones.

[0010] Wireless safety: Bluetooth headphones eliminate the risk of tangled cables, which is especially important for young children. These devices ideally offer a wireless experience, eliminating the cable safety concerns most parents face when using wired audio systems.

[0011] Therefore, there is a need for a new headphone device that can meet these needs, providing a safe, comfortable, and child-friendly audio solution that allows parents to better control their children's listening habits, provides an undisturbed sensory experience for children, and ensures the safety of drivers / parents and children while driving by minimizing driver distraction.

[0012] Such devices are preferably configured to interface with (connect or otherwise attach to) child car seats or booster seats, and are preferably universally mountable to child seats via at least one strap. Furthermore, such devices preferably provide parent-controlled audio levels that cannot be changed by the child user. Summary of the Invention

[0013] This application relates to a wireless headphone device and system designed for comfortable and seamless use by children, while providing an undisturbed driving experience for adults.

[0014] This innovative wireless headphone system integrates high-quality audio technology into a comfortable, padded housing designed for mounting in a car seat headrest. Two earpieces, positioned opposite each other, are housed within a long strip of soft material, ensuring optimal placement above a child's ears. The padded housing preferably incorporates a flexible wire skeleton or frame, allowing the device to bend to conform to the ideal shape of the child car seat to which it is installed.

[0015] The device features a built-in rechargeable battery that can be charged via a convenient charging panel, and volume control is easily adjusted via a dedicated operating area. These headphones utilize Bluetooth™ technology to wirelessly connect to various audio sources such as tablets or smartphones, eliminating potentially hazardous cables and enhancing freedom of movement.

[0016] Safety and versatility are top priorities in this design, taking into account both driver and child safety. The padded shell not only provides comfort for extended wear but also protects internal components from external damage. Its unique ability to be universally mounted on car seat headrests makes it an ideal companion for travel, while wireless connectivity and volume control allow parents to effectively manage their child's listening experience while the driver / parent is driving safely and the car's audio system remains undisturbed. This all-in-one solution combines cutting-edge audio technology with a child-friendly design, providing a safe, comfortable, and convenient way for children to enjoy audio content during car trips, while prioritizing the safety of both children and drivers / parents. Attached Figure Description

[0017] This application will be more readily understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 A front view of the padded headphones of this application is shown, detailing the control panel and the padded housing.

[0018] Figure 2 The image shows a view of the padded headphones of this application mounted on a child car seat.

[0019] Figure 3 A flowchart detailing the process of using the device described in this application is presented.

[0020] Figure 4 A wireframe schematic of the housing with padding is shown, illustrating the location of the speaker.

[0021] Figure 5 A wireframe diagram of the internal wiring and remote control of the device of this application is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0022] This application includes a set of wireless headphones (10) (also referred to as in-ear headphones, each of which has a speaker) integrated in a padded housing (20). The housing (20) is designed to comfortably surround a child's head or be fixed to a car seat headrest, providing comfort and safety.

[0023] The padded shell is made of a soft, child-friendly material and extends to the back of a child's head. This long strip of soft material has multiple uses: - Comfort: Soft materials ensure comfortable wear of the device for extended periods.

[0024] - Protective: Protects the internal components of the headphones.

[0025] - Positioning: Secure the headphones near the child's ears.

[0026] The padded housing (20) is designed with padding or foam, and each end of the housing contains an in-ear headphone. This design allows for safe and comfortable universal installation on car seats, regardless of the manufacturer. Furthermore, the padded housing (20) is preferably equipped with an internal frame (80) or skeleton, which includes at least one flexible line (25) configured to facilitate bending of the device to fit the shape and structure of the car seat to which the application is to be installed, and to provide a customized fit according to the size of a child's head.

[0027] Each speaker (30) of a headset or in-ear headphone is preferably held at opposite ends of a strip of soft material with a padded housing (20), such as Figure 1 As shown. This arrangement ensures that when the padded housing (20) is secured to the car seat, the speaker (30) is naturally positioned toward the child's ear. At least one flexible wire (25) for support is arranged inside the padded housing (20), allowing the user to bend the portion of the padded housing (20) containing the speaker (30) toward the user's ear in a “C” or “U” shape.

[0028] The padded housing (20) is designed with a mechanism (40) for securely attaching to a child car seat headrest, ensuring compatibility with universal car seats. This feature makes it easy to use during car travel, providing entertainment for children while ensuring the device is securely secured. The mechanism (40) preferably has at least one strap. The padded housing (20) is designed to conceal the internal circuitry and wiring (55) of this application.

[0029] An operation panel (50) is incorporated into the design of this application and is accessible through an opening in the soft material of the housing (20). The panel (50) can be opened and closed to charge the internal battery (60) via a standard Universal Serial Bus (USB) cable. The battery (60) is contained within the soft material of the padded housing (20). The operation panel (50) can also be opened and closed to display the volume control section (70) of the speaker (30) located on the control stick (90) of this application. This feature allows for easy volume adjustment without removing the device from a child's head or car seat.

[0030] This application utilizes wireless technology, preferably Bluetooth. TM It connects to an audio source, such as a tablet, smartphone, or other compatible device. This wireless connection eliminates the need for potentially dangerous wires or earplugs (which can cause choking hazards) and allows children greater freedom of movement.

[0031] In summary, this application provides a safe, comfortable, personalized, and convenient audio solution for children and drivers / parents. Its unique design integrates headphones into a padded housing, offering versatility during use and addressing common concerns faced by parents and children during car travel, such as comfort, safety, security, and personal use. The device not only ensures safety for children during use but also provides security for drivers / parents by reducing distractions and eliminating external audio interference generated by most common travel headphones and / or entertainment devices during car travel.

[0032] The internal components of this application preferably include, but are not limited to, the following: 1. Bluetooth Module: The core of wireless functionality is preferably a Bluetooth module, possibly based on a Qualcomm chip. TM The CSR8645 Bluetooth audio IC1 is a chip. This module is preferably configured to process: Bluetooth 4.0 or later connection; Audio decoding (SBC, AAC, possibly including aptX); Wireless pairing and connection management; and It operates in the 2.4 GHz ISM band.

[0033] 2. Logic board / microcontroller: A small microcontroller is needed: Manage power status; Process user input (volume, play / pause, etc.); Control LED indicator lights; and Potentially implements noise reduction algorithms.

[0034] 3. Audio amplifier: Low-power stereo amplifiers like the PAM8403 Class D amplifier are ideally suited for: Amplify the audio signal from the Bluetooth module; Provide sufficient power to the speaker; and Efficient operation to save battery life.

[0035] 4. Loudspeaker (30): Two small loudspeakers (possibly with 30-40mm drivers) are preferably integrated into a padded housing (20). These loudspeakers: Located at each end of the gasketed housing (20); Neodymium magnets may be used to improve efficiency; Tuned to a frequency response suitable for children.

[0036] 5. Battery (60): Preferably, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery is used to power the device. The battery (60) is preferably: The capacity is approximately 300-500 mAh, supporting several hours of audio playback; and Protected by the charging circuit (such as the TP4056 module).

[0037] 6. Charging port: Preferably, a micro USB or USB-C port is provided for charging the battery (60).

[0038] 7. Control Buttons - Preferably, simple button or touch controls are available for: Power on / off; Volume adjustment; and Play / Pause / Skip tracks.

[0039] 8. Light Emitting Diode (LED) Indicator Light - Small LEDs may be present in this application for display: Power status; Bluetooth connection status; and Charging status.

[0040] 9. Antenna: A small PCB antenna for Bluetooth connectivity.

[0041] 10. Wires and connectors: Flexible wires that connect components within a padded housing.

[0042] Optional components in alternative embodiments of this application include, but are not limited to: a microphone for calls or voice commands, active noise cancellation (ANC) circuitry, and / or an NFC chip for easy pairing.

[0043] These components will be carefully arranged within a padded housing, taking into account weight distribution, heat dissipation, and shock or moisture protection. The design will prioritize child safety and durability, potentially using child-safe materials and avoiding small parts that could pose a choking hazard.

[0044] like Figure 3 As shown, the preferred method for installing and using the system and device of this application is as follows: 1. First, the user purchases the device of this application from an authorized retailer or electronic retailer. (100) 2. Next, the user unpacks the device, opens the control panel, removes the control stick (containing the battery and volume control), and connects it to a power source via USB cable to charge the device's battery. (110) 3. The user then grasps the padding body of the device and determines whether an attachment mechanism (strap) is needed to secure the device to their car seat. (120) Some child car seats currently on the market have through pockets at or near the head position, providing an easy placement location for the central portion of the padding housing of this application. Other car seats require the use of straps to ensure that the device is adequately secured to the car seat and at an ideal height for the child to hear the sound from the device's speaker.

[0045] 4. After installation, the user will then connect the device via Bluetooth. TM The radio is paired with their chosen mobile device. The mobile device is then instructed to play content containing audio. (130) This could include podcasts, movies, TV shows, YouTube videos, etc. TM Content, music, audiobooks, or other content relevant to children.

[0046] 5. Then, the user uses the volume control to set the device's volume to the desired level. (140) 6. Finally, the user returns the control stick to the padded housing via the control panel, securing it out of the reach of children. (150) 7. Children are now free to listen to audio content in their car seats, and parents / guardians are confident that the volume level will not be high enough to damage their hearing or be heard by the driver, while also knowing that the child is comfortable and safe in the car seat. (160) It should be noted that preferred methods for manufacturing this application include, but are not limited to, molding, hand sewing, and 3D printing. Furthermore, this application can be installed and configured to fit all car seats, strollers, and aircraft seats. Further, this application can be draped over any headrest or headrest cushion. A preferred embodiment of this application is equipped with a carabiner configured to connect with a ring (35), such as... Figure 4As shown, the ring is located at the top of the device for attaching the strap. This strap ensures that the application can be wrapped around any headrest or headrest cushion, ensuring the universal applicability of the application.

[0047] Further alternative embodiments of this application include an infant insert with a head panel of a different shape, which is attached to an infant body cushion insert configured for use in a car seat for an infant. The head portion of the infant insert is configured to be easily removable for cleaning.

[0048] Having described this application, it should be understood that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the essence of this application. Furthermore, it should be understood that this application is not limited to the invention described in the foregoing embodiments, but further includes any and all embodiments within the scope of this application.

[0049] The foregoing description of specific embodiments of this application is presented for illustrative and descriptive purposes. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the application to the precise forms disclosed, and it is evident that many modifications and variations are possible in accordance with the foregoing teachings. Exemplary embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of this application and its practical application, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to best utilize this application and its various embodiments with various modifications suitable for the particular purpose contemplated.

Claims

1. A wireless earphone device, comprising: A padded shell made of soft material and configured to extend around a child's head; Two speakers are located at opposite ends of the padded housing; A rechargeable battery is housed within the padded housing; The control panel is integrated into the padded housing and is accessible through an opening in the soft material; The volume control unit can be operated via the operation panel; Bluetooth module, configured to connect wirelessly to the audio source; as well as An attachment mechanism configured to attach the padded housing to the headrest of a child car seat.

2. The wireless earphone device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The attachment mechanism includes at least one strap.

3. The wireless earphone device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The padded housing includes an internal frame that includes at least one flexible wire configured to facilitate bending of the wireless earphone device to fit the shape of the car seat.

4. The wireless earphone device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The control panel is configured to open and close to allow the rechargeable battery to be charged via a Universal Serial Bus cable.

5. The wireless earphone device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The volume control unit is located on a control stick that can be operated via the operation panel.

6. The wireless earphone device as claimed in claim 5, wherein, The control stick is configured to be fixed inside the padded housing inaccessible to children.

7. The wireless earphone device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The Bluetooth module is configured to operate via Bluetooth connection.

8. The wireless earphone device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The speaker includes a 30-40 mm driver that is positioned so as to be naturally aligned with a child's ear when the padded housing is attached to the car seat.

9. The wireless earphone device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The rechargeable battery is configured to support multiple hours of audio playback.

10. The wireless earphone device of claim 1, further comprising: An audio amplifier is configured to amplify the audio signal from the Bluetooth module, thereby providing sufficient power to the speaker.

11. A wireless audio system for children, comprising: The long, padded shell is made of a soft, child-friendly material. Two earphones are integrated into the padded housing, with each earphone located at opposite ends of the elongated padded housing; A wireless communication module configured to connect to an audio source; A rechargeable power supply is housed within the padded housing; The parental control function can be operated via a detachable control panel; as well as A universal attachment system configured to secure the padded housing to various vehicle seat headrests.

12. The wireless audio system of claim 11, wherein, The padded housing is made of filler or foam to provide comfort and protection for the internal components.

13. The wireless audio system of claim 11, wherein, The wireless communication module utilizes Bluetooth technology to eliminate potentially dangerous cables.

14. The wireless audio system of claim 11, wherein, The parental control features include volume controls that cannot be changed by child users.

15. The wireless audio system of claim 11, wherein, The universal attachment system is configured to provide compatibility independent of vehicle seat manufacturers.

16. The wireless audio system of claim 11, further comprising: LED indicators are configured to display power status, Bluetooth connection status, and charging status.

17. The wireless audio system of claim 11, wherein, The padded housing is configured to conceal internal circuitry and wiring.

18. A method for providing safe audio entertainment for children during vehicle travel, comprising: A wireless earphone device is provided, which has a padded housing and the padded housing includes two speakers at opposite ends; The padded housing is attached to the child car seat headrest via an attachment mechanism; Pair the Bluetooth radio of the wireless headset with the mobile device; Use the control panel to set the volume to the desired level; and The volume control unit is secured within the padded housing, out of the reach of children.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising: Before use, charge the rechargeable battery inside the padded housing via USB cable.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein, The attachment step includes using at least one strap to ensure that the wireless earphone device is held at an ideal height where the child can hear the speaker sound, and that it is sufficiently held on the car seat.

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