In-ear receiver assembly

Abstract

The present disclosure provides an in-ear receiver assembly. The assembly comprises a receiver housing defining a channel extending in a longitudinal direction, wherein a first sound opening is arranged at a first end, and wherein a receiver is arranged in the channel. The assembly further comprises a dome comprising a circumferential member arranged circumferentially around the receiver housing, wherein a second sound opening is arranged at a front end, and an extension extending in the longitudinal direction from an inner surface of the circumferential member and forming a seat for the receiver housing. The receiver housing comprises a first engagement structure and the extension comprises a second engagement structure, the first and second engagement structures being configured to engage with each other to releasably lock the dome to the receiver housing by elastic deformation of at least one of the first and second engagement structures, and wherein the extension comprises at least two grip arms and / or reinforcing ribs extending along an outer surface of the receiver housing on opposite sides of the receiver housing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an in-ear receiver assembly and a dome for the in-ear receiver assembly. The in-ear receiver assembly is positioned within or partially within a user's ear canal. The dome includes circumferential members arranged around the receiver housing. Background Technology

[0002] In-canal receiver assemblies are used in many so-called RITE (receiver in the ear) type hearing aid devices. Such hearing aid devices include: (i) behind-the-ear (BTE) modules, typically including one or more microphones, a battery, an amplifier, and a signal processor for sound pickup; and (ii) in-canal receiver assemblies, which include at least one receiver (speaker) positioned within a person's ear canal. In-canal receiver assemblies are typically connected to BTE modules via cables, such as Litz cables and connectors (plugs / sockets) for connecting the in-canal receiver assembly to the BTE module. In-canal receiver assemblies typically include a dome to position the assembly within a person's ear canal. If desired, the in-canal receiver assembly may include a microphone or one or more other sensors, such as vibration sensors or optical sensors. In-canal receiver assemblies may also include valves, such as those disclosed in European Patent Application Publication No. 4295584.

[0003] It will be recognized that the dimensions of the intracanal receiver assembly are limited by the small size of the human ear canal (especially in cross-section). Furthermore, the length of the intracanal receiver assembly is generally expected to be limited as well. One reason is that longer intracanal receiver assemblies are more easily seen from the outside of the ear. Users of hearing aid devices typically prefer intracanal receiver assemblies that are as inconspicuous as possible to others looking at them. This becomes a challenge, especially if additional sensors or valves are to be included within the intracanal receiver assembly.

[0004] In-ear receiver assemblies typically include a nozzle at the sound opening. The nozzle defines an acoustic sound channel, allowing acoustic communication between the sound opening of the receiver inside the in-ear receiver assembly and the sound opening of the in-ear receiver assembly at the tip of the nozzle. Furthermore, the exterior of the nozzle is typically used for attaching a dome. The dome includes circumferential members arranged around the receiver housing. These circumferential members are typically flexible and soft, for example, made of polysiloxane. The dome allows the in-ear receiver assembly to be positioned within a person's ear canal, preventing it from falling out during user movement and ensuring comfortable wear. The nozzle may be circular or elliptical in cross-section, preferably circular, and typically has a tubular section and a retaining section, such as a flange or retaining rib for receiving and retaining the dome. Typically, the nozzle does not contain a portion of the receiver. The longest diameter of the nozzle tube section can be 1.5 to 2.0 mm, while the longest diameter of the main body of the receiver assembly in the ear canal is typically in the range of 2.4 to 4.5 mm.

[0005] It would be desirable to find an in-canal receiver assembly that does not require a nozzle. This would reduce the overall length required for the in-canal receiver assembly and potentially free up length for additional sensors or valves, etc.

[0006] Debris (such as earwax and moisture) can accumulate on personal audio equipment, causing a variety of problems, such as clogging sound openings and corroding components. Components and features of personal audio equipment, especially those of the speakers (receivers), need to be protected from such debris to prevent any adverse effects.

[0007] Traditionally, barriers (such as replaceable earwax containers) have been used to protect personal audio devices from debris entering through the sound ports. The problem with these barriers is that they eventually become dirty, which affects acoustic transmission. Existing solutions require cleaning or replacing the barrier, but this process is often overly complex, either due to size or tool requirements. Improper maintenance can exacerbate this, carrying contaminants to other parts of the personal audio device that may be more difficult to maintain.

[0008] US 6,129,174 describes an acoustic coupler for a nozzle attached to a receiver housing and a flexible dome attached to the acoustic coupler.

[0009] US 2020 / 0162828 relates to earwax protection for in-ear hearing devices including earplugs.

[0010] US 2023 / 0050184 describes a dome that includes a speaker unit interface for connecting the tip (nozzle) of a speaker unit to the dome and an outer dome portion, wherein the outer dome portion comprises a softer material and the interface comprises a harder material.

[0011] US 2018 / 0109862 describes an earbud or dome having multiple protruding, convex, and flexible elements.

[0012] US 2018 / 0167752 describes a dome for attachment to a receiver housing, wherein the dome can be attached to the receiver housing by means of a plurality of protruding flanges and annular recesses. Summary of the Invention

[0013] The purpose of embodiments of the present invention is to provide an improved in-ear receiver assembly. Another purpose is to provide an improved dome for an in-ear receiver assembly. Yet another purpose is to provide an improved receiver housing for an in-ear receiver assembly.

[0014] The present invention provides an in-ear receiver assembly as claimed in claim 1 and a dome as claimed in claim 15.

[0015] Accordingly, according to a first aspect, the present invention relates to an in-ear receiver assembly, comprising: - Defines a receiver housing for a channel extending longitudinally between a first end and an opposing second end, wherein a first sound opening is disposed at the first end, the first sound opening being configured for the passage of sound. - Receivers placed in the channel, and - Dome, including: - A circumferential member, which is circumferentially arranged around the receiver housing and extends longitudinally between the front and rear ends, wherein a second sound opening is arranged at the front end and configured for the passage of sound. - An extension that extends longitudinally from the inner surface of the circumferential member and forms a base for the receiver housing. The receiver housing includes a first engagement structure and an extension includes a second engagement structure, the first and second engagement structures being configured to engage with each other to releasably lock the dome to the receiver housing by elastic deformation of at least one of the first and second engagement structures, and wherein the extension includes at least two gripping arms and / or reinforcing ribs extending along the outer surface of the receiver housing on opposite sides of the receiver housing.

[0016] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to an in-ear receiver assembly, comprising: - Defines a receiver housing for a channel extending longitudinally between a first end and an opposing second end, wherein a first sound opening is disposed at the first end and configured for the passage of sound. - Receivers placed in the channel, and - Dome, including: - A circumferential member, which is circumferentially arranged around the receiver housing and extends longitudinally between the front and rear ends, wherein a second sound opening is arranged at the front end and configured for the passage of sound. - An extension that extends longitudinally from the inner surface of the circumferential member and forms a base for the receiver housing. The receiver housing includes a first engagement structure and an extension includes a second engagement structure, the first engagement structure and the second engagement structure being configured to engage with each other to releasably lock the dome to the receiver housing by elastic deformation of at least one of the first engagement structure and the second engagement structure, and wherein at least a portion of the receiver is arranged in the channel at a certain longitudinal distance from the first end, the longitudinal distance being less than the longitudinal distance from the first end to the portion of the first engagement structure closest to the second end.

[0017] An "in-canal receiver assembly" can be used as part of a hearing aid. However, an in-canal receiver assembly or its components (such as a dome) can also be used as part of a smart ear-worn device (such as a consumer accessory). An in-canal receiver assembly includes a receiver (speaker) and may also include a microphone. The receiver and microphone can be integrated into a single unit.

[0018] Sound can be directed to or directed to a receiver component within the ear canal. Therefore, the receiver component within the ear canal can generate sound via the receiver.

[0019] The receiver housing defines a channel extending longitudinally between a first end and an opposite second end, wherein a first sound opening is disposed at the first end. The first sound opening is configured for the passage of sound. The receiver is disposed in the channel, thereby allowing the first sound opening to be configured for the passage of sound from the receiver. Sound can be guided from the receiver to the user's ear canal via the first sound opening.

[0020] In the context of this invention, the term "longitudinal direction" should be understood as the direction in which the receiver housing is longest. To facilitate the insertion of at least a portion of the in-ear receiver assembly into the ear canal, the longitudinal direction may be substantially equal to the insertion direction of the in-ear receiver assembly into the ear canal.

[0021] The receiver housing may be substantially tubular between the first and second ends, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the receiver housing may be substantially circular. However, in alternative embodiments, the cross-sectional shape may be different, such as elliptical, forming a square, triangular, or having another shape. In a preferred embodiment, sharp corners on the outer surface of the receiver housing can be avoided to reduce the risk of injury to the user's ear canal. Dimensions of the cross-sectional shape (such as diameter) may vary along the longitudinal direction. However, in one embodiment, the dimensions of the cross-sectional shape may be uniform.

[0022] The receiver is arranged in a channel. The term "arranged in" should be understood as meaning that at least a portion of the receiver is housed in the channel, thereby protecting at least that portion of the receiver from the receiver housing. Therefore, at least a portion of the receiver is housed in the channel along the longitudinal direction. If only a portion of the receiver is housed in the channel, the remaining portion of the receiver may extend out of the channel at one end, preferably at the second end, to avoid the first sound opening being blocked or partially blocked by the receiver. In one embodiment, the receiver may be fully inserted into the channel, thereby allowing the receiver housing to be large enough to accommodate the size of the receiver.

[0023] The dome is releasably attached to the receiver housing at its first end. In use, the first end is typically the portion of the receiver housing that is first inserted into the user's ear canal, thereby allowing the dome to form the front of the receiver assembly within the ear canal upon insertion, and thus to be positioned deeper into the ear canal during use than the second end of the receiver housing. By providing a dome releasably attached to the receiver housing, the dome can be replaced upon wear and / or removed for cleaning.

[0024] The dome includes a circumferential member arranged around the receiver housing and extending longitudinally between a front end and a rear end. The front and rear ends of the circumferential member define opposite ends of the circumferential member, where the terms "front" and "rear" refer to the insertion direction of the receiver assembly within the ear canal relative to the user's ear canal. Thus, the circumferential member can be attached to a first end of the receiver housing at its front end.

[0025] The second sound opening is disposed at the front end of the circumferential member and is configured for the passage of sound. The first and second sound openings may be arranged laterally to the longitudinal direction and may be aligned or arranged such that they at least partially overlap, thereby enabling the passage of sound from a receiver disposed in the channel. Therefore, sound can be transmitted from the receiver to the user's ear canal via the first and second sound openings.

[0026] The extension extends longitudinally from the inner surface of the circumferential member, wherein the inner surface of the circumferential member faces the receiver housing, while the outer surface of the circumferential member faces away from the receiver housing.

[0027] The extension forms a base for the receiver housing. By forming the base, a portion of the extension can be shaped to match a portion of the outer surface of the receiver housing, thereby providing support for the receiver housing. Therefore, the base can be provided as an interface for the receiver housing. It should be understood that the receiver housing can be releasably attached to the dome at a different location from the base, which can provide support solely for the receiver housing.

[0028] To prevent earwax from entering the channel when the extension provides support for the receiver housing at the base, a portion of the outer surface of the receiver housing can form a contact surface for contacting the contact surface of the extension forming the base. Through the contact between the two surfaces, earwax entry can be avoided or at least significantly reduced.

[0029] To facilitate attachment of the dome to the receiver housing, the receiver housing includes a first engagement structure, and an extension includes a second engagement structure. The first and second engagement structures are configured to engage with each other to releasably lock the dome to the receiver housing through elastic deformation of at least one of the first and second engagement structures, facilitating the removal of the dome for cleaning. Furthermore, if the dome is damaged or worn, it can be replaced. Through elastic deformation of at least one of the first and second engagement structures, the dome and receiver housing can be releasably attached to each other by pushing them together along the longitudinal direction, providing a so-called snap-locking mechanism between the elements. In a preferred embodiment, the first and second engagement structures can be configured to engage with each other to releasably lock the dome to the receiver housing through elastic deformation of the second engagement structure.

[0030] Preferably, the receiver housing of the in-ear receiver assembly does not include a nozzle. The nozzle typically protrudes from the receiver housing at its proximal end, having one or more retaining features for retaining the dome and a tubular section covering the sound channel for acoustic communication between the receiver sound opening and the sound opening at the proximal end of the nozzle protruding into the ear canal. The nozzle differs significantly from the receiver housing in that it does not house the receiver, but it can house a microphone, as in WO2022 / 042951.

[0031] A preferred receiver housing according to the invention is characterized in that the channel is configured to position at least a portion of the receiver within the channel at a longitudinal distance from the first end, this longitudinal distance being less than the longitudinal distance from the first end to the portion of the first engagement structure closest to the second end. This avoids the need for a nozzle in the in-ear receiver assembly according to the invention.

[0032] An in-ear receiver assembly can be configured to be disposed within or partially within a user's ear canal, wherein at least a circumferential member can be disposed against the inner surface of the ear canal, which can hold the inserted portion of the in-ear receiver assembly in place. The in-ear receiver assembly includes a receiver housing, a receiver, and a dome. The in-ear receiver assembly may additionally include electronics and other components. The in-ear receiver assembly can be coupled to a second component configured to be disposed outside the ear canal, for example, a second component at least partially disposed behind the user's ear. The second component may include electronics, a controller, a battery, one or more microphones, and an additional receiver, which may be a bass receiver. Other components may also form part of the in-ear receiver assembly and / or the second component. The in-ear receiver assembly and the second component may be interconnected by a tube and one or more wires.

[0033] Each of the first and second engagement structures may include at least two engagement elements extending transversely to the longitudinal direction. Engagement elements may, as examples, be recesses and protrusions, wherein engagement can be achieved by inserting the protrusion into the recess. To improve the locking of the dome to the receiver housing, the shape of the first engagement structure may match the shape of the second engagement structure; for example, the external shape of the protrusion may match the internal shape of the cavity forming the recess.

[0034] In one embodiment, the first and second engagement structures include a recess and a protrusion, the protrusion being elastically deformable to allow bending when the dome and receiver housing are pressed together. Bending of the protrusion can cease when it aligns with the recess, and the protrusion can extend into the recess. The sidewalls of the recess may alternatively or additionally be elastically deformable to facilitate attachment of the dome to the receiver housing.

[0035] In one embodiment, the first engagement structure may include a plurality of engagement ribs extending circumferentially around the outer surface of the receiver housing, while the second engagement structure may include a plurality of recesses extending circumferentially along the inner surface of the extension. Two or more engagement ribs (such as three, four, five, six, or even more) may be provided. In a preferred embodiment, the first engagement structure may include at least four engagement ribs. The engagement ribs may extend substantially parallel to each other around the receiver housing. The engagement ribs may extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The engagement ribs may be integrally formed with the receiver housing. A corresponding number of recesses may extend along the inner surface of the extension, thereby providing a recess for each engagement rib. Accordingly, the second engagement structure may preferably include at least four recesses configured to engage at least four engagement ribs of the first engagement structure. The recesses may be formed as part of a molding process for the extension. By forming the extension from an elastically deformable material, when the first engagement structure (engagement ribs) is engaged with the second engagement structure (recesses), the dome may be releasably locked to the receiver housing by means of the elastic deformation of the recesses.

[0036] To facilitate engagement between the first and second engagement structures, each engagement rib may terminate at a free rib end, wherein each rib end may form a beveled edge along the longitudinal direction. Since the height of the engagement rib at the first edge of each rib may be lower than the height at the second edge of each rib, insertion of the rib into the recess can be facilitated. The first edge may be an edge closer to a first end of the receiver housing, and the second edge may be an edge closer to a second end of the receiver housing. Engagement can be further facilitated by making the height of the engagement rib closer to the first end lower than the height of the engagement rib closer to the second end. In one embodiment, the height of the rib may decrease toward the first end. In this embodiment, the height of the engagement rib can be determined by measuring the shortest distance from the central longitudinal axis of the receiver housing to the top of the rib (i.e., at an angle of 90° relative to the central longitudinal axis of the receiver housing). According to a preferred embodiment, the portion of the receiver housing including the first engagement structure may taper in the direction of the first sound opening. Again, by measuring the shortest distance from the line to the top of the rib (i.e., at a 90° angle), the height of each rib relative to the line connecting the two points defining the base of the rib can be substantially the same, especially where the portion of the receiver housing including the first engagement structure tapers in the direction of the first sound opening.

[0037] In one embodiment, the multiple engagement ribs in the cross-section along the longitudinal direction may be serrated. Additionally or alternatively, the transverse dimension of the receiver housing in the longitudinal direction may gradually decrease along a portion of the receiver housing toward the first end, which may further facilitate the attachment of the dome to the receiver housing.

[0038] The transverse dimension of the receiver housing can gradually decrease along a portion of the receiver housing toward the first end, such that the longest diameter at the end closest to the eardrum (proximal end) is at least 0.5 times, preferably at least 0.6 times, and more preferably at least 0.7 times, the longest diameter of the receiver housing measured at a distance of 2 mm from the proximal end. Typically, it does not exceed 0.9 times, preferably not more than 0.8 times, the longest diameter of the receiver housing measured at a distance of 2 mm from the proximal end.

[0039] Multiple indentations can have a cross-sectional shape that matches the cross-sectional shape of the engagement rib to facilitate locking of the dome to the receiver housing.

[0040] In an alternative embodiment, the first engagement structure may include two grooves extending along the outer surface of the receiver housing, while the second engagement structure may include two protrusions extending inwardly toward the receiver housing from the inner surface of the extension. The grooves may be provided on opposite sides of the receiver housing. The grooves may extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0041] The extension may include two elongated gripping arms, each extending along the outer surface of the receiver housing on opposite sides. A protrusion may extend from each gripping arm for engaging a groove that may be provided on one side of the outer surface of the receiver housing. When the dome and receiver housing are pushed together, the gripping arms may deflect outwards due to elastic deformation of the extension. The deflection of the gripping arms may stop when the protrusion aligns with the groove, and the first engagement structure (groove) engages with the second engagement structure (dent).

[0042] The extension and the circumferential member can be formed as a single unit, or alternatively, they can be formed as two separate elements that are subsequently joined together. The extension and the circumferential member can be fixedly attached to each other, thereby impeding movement of the extension and the circumferential member relative to each other.

[0043] The extension may be formed of a first material, while the circumferential member may be formed of a second material, wherein the second material may be more flexible than the first material. By providing a circumferential member made of a second material that is more flexible than the first material, it is possible to change the external shape of the circumferential member during, for example, inserting the dome and receiver housing into and / or removing them from the user's ear canal, to facilitate the insertion / removal of the dome and / or to facilitate the adaptation of the external shape of the circumferential member to the internal shape of the ear canal, which allows it to remain in place within the ear canal.

[0044] Flexibility is related to the amount of force required to deform a material. It is related to the flexural modulus, which is the material's tendency to resist bending. Materials that deform more easily are considered more flexible or have a lower flexural modulus. Flexibility can be measured using the Shore A hardness scale, with higher values ​​indicating lower flexibility than lower values. Deformation can be either plastic or elastic. Under normal use, circumferential components should not undergo plastic deformation. Therefore, both the primary and secondary materials should remain within the range of elastic deformation. The Shore A hardness of the primary material can be at least 85, while the secondary material can have a lower Shore A hardness, such as in the range of 10-80.

[0045] The extension may be formed of a first material, which may be less flexible than the second material. As an example, the first material may be a metal, ceramic, or plastic, such as different types of metals and / or different types of plastics or a harder silicone resin. Preferably, the extension is made of polycaprolactam (PA6), polylaurolactam (PA12), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), and more preferably polybutylene terephthalate. In one embodiment, the first material may be the same as the material used for the receiver housing (the third material). The first material used for the extension may optionally be glass fiber reinforced, such as having a glass fiber content in the range of up to 50%.

[0046] The receiver housing can be provided from a third material that is not as flexible as the second material. By further providing a receiver housing made of a third material with a Shore A hardness of at least 85, it is possible to achieve a receiver housing that retains a substantially unchanged shape during insertion and / or removal, thereby facilitating retention of the receiver in the ear canal. Additionally, the low flexural modulus of the third material used for the receiver housing can provide protection for the receiver, for example, if the receiver assembly or receiver housing falls out of the ear canal.

[0047] The first material and / or the second material can be materials comprising more than one component. The terms "first material" and "second material" do not limit the material to a pure material without additives or combinations of materials. The terms "first material" and "second material" specify that the extension is made of a different material than the circumferential member.

[0048] The first and second materials may contain the same components, but differ in proportion. As an example, the first material may be a plastic material with additives to make it less flexible, while the second material may be the same plastic material, for example, without additives or with fewer additives, or with different additives, to make the second material more flexible than the first material.

[0049] In embodiments where the extension and circumferential member are formed integrally, the material used, for example, may be a plastic material, such as silicone resin or TPE (thermoplastic elastomer), preferably silicone rubber, such as cross-linked (cured) liquid silicone rubber (LSR). The material may preferably have a Shore A hardness in the range of 10-80, more preferably in the range of 35-80.

[0050] In a cross-section transverse to the longitudinal direction, the external shape of the circumferential member can be substantially circular. In alternative embodiments, the external shape can have another shape, such as an ellipse. The outer surface of the circumferential member can be smooth and without sharp corners to reduce the risk of injury to the user's ear canal when the circumferential member is arranged to contact the ear canal.

[0051] The receiver housing can be made of, for example, metal, ceramic, or plastic, such as different types of metal and / or different types of plastic or harder silicone. Preferably, the receiver housing is made of polyamide (such as nylon 66 (PA66), polycaprolactam (PA6), or polylaurolactam (PA12)), polycarbonate-polyester blends or polycarbonate-ABS blends, polyalkylene terephthalate (such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT)) or more preferably polyamide 66. A third material for the receiver housing may optionally be glass fiber reinforced, such as with a glass fiber content in the range of up to 50%. Circumferential components, as an example, can be made of plastic materials (such as silicone resin or TPE (thermoplastic elastomer)), preferably silicone rubber (such as cross-linked (cured) liquid silicone rubber (LSR)).

[0052] In embodiments where the circumferential member and the extension are formed as separate elements, the circumferential member may include a collar member, wherein the collar member may extend toward the receiver housing and terminate at a free end. The collar member may have an internal shape that matches the external shape of a portion of the extension for attaching the extension to the circumferential member by inserting the extension into the collar member. The extension may be attached to the circumferential member by, for example, friction, by gluing, by chemical bonding, or via overmolding.

[0053] The first length of the circumferential member from the first end to the rear end along the longitudinal direction can be less than the second length of the extension in the longitudinal direction, such as in the range of 25% to less than the second length. Therefore, the extension can extend beyond its rear end, such that the circumferential member only covers a portion of the extension along the longitudinal direction.

[0054] The support element can be arranged to support the circumferential member, such as during insertion and / or removal of the dome from the user's ear canal and / or during use of the in-ear receiver assembly. The support element can be arranged circumferentially around the extension to support the circumferential member along a portion of the inner surface of the circumferential member between the front and rear ends. The support element can be attached to at least one of the circumferential member and the extension.

[0055] When positioned between the extension and the circumferential member, the support element can generate pressure on the circumferential member to ensure engagement with the ear canal, such as providing a seal along the outer surface of the circumferential member and the ear canal during use. Furthermore, the support element can prevent or at least significantly reduce the risk of flipping a portion of the circumferential member; that is, flipping a portion of the circumferential member from the inside out at the rear end. The support element can be made of a flexible material (such as silicone or TPE (thermoplastic elastomer)) to allow the circumferential member to conform to the shape of the ear canal and / or allow the circumferential member to be compressed during insertion and / or removal of the receiver assembly within the ear canal.

[0056] A cavity may be formed along at least a portion of the outer surface of the extension and along at least a portion of the inner surface of the circumferential member in the longitudinal direction. Due to this cavity, the circumferential member can move relative to the extension, for example, during insertion of the dome and receiver housing into the user's ear canal and / or during removal from the user's ear canal. This movement can be primarily in a radial direction transverse to the longitudinal direction, since the circumferential member is attached to the extension at its front end.

[0057] The attachment of the circumferential member to the extension at the front end also allows the circumferential member to move at the rear end relative to the extension by a greater margin than it would move closer to the front end.

[0058] One or more pores may be formed in the circumferential member, extending from the outer surface of the circumferential member to the inner surface. The pores may be formed to allow sound to pass through. In embodiments including multiple pores, the pores may have the same size and shape. In alternative embodiments, the pores may have different sizes and / or shapes.

[0059] The in-ear receiver assembly may additionally or alternatively include a barrier member configured to restrict earwax entry into the cavity by providing at least one obstruction element. The barrier member may be arranged circumferentially around an extension within the cavity along a portion of the inner surface of the circumferential member between the front and rear ends. The barrier member may preferably be arranged closer to the rear end than the front end to reduce deeper earwax entry into the cavity, such as when arranged in an area adjacent to the rear end. The barrier member may extend from the extension to the inner surface of the circumferential member to provide a barrier restricting entry into the cavity. The barrier member may be attached to at least one of the circumferential member and the extension. The barrier may allow sound to pass through. The barrier member, as an example, may be made of foam or plastic materials such as silicone or TPE. The material may be selected to allow the barrier member to deform when the circumferential member deforms in response to pressure applied to the outer surface of the circumferential member (e.g., during insertion and / or removal of the in-ear receiver assembly from the ear canal).

[0060] In one embodiment, the barrier member may possess hydrophobic or oleophobic properties. As an example, this can be achieved by coating the barrier member or by making the barrier member from a material with hydrophobic or oleophobic properties. In addition to a physical barrier, hydrophobic or oleophobic properties can also provide a chemical barrier against earwax.

[0061] The barrier member may include multiple openings / pores to allow sound to pass through it. Additionally, the openings can facilitate deformation of the barrier member when pressure is applied to its outer surface. The barrier member may include multiple obstruction elements, such as meshes, elements extending laterally into the cavity, layered structures, foam, etc., because earwax ingress can be minimized when the transmission path of earwax is not a straight path but is altered due to deviations caused by the formation of obstruction elements. Therefore, the barrier member can act as a labyrinth with pockets formed by obstruction elements, which can trap earwax and other ingressors.

[0062] The first protective element can be arranged laterally to the first acoustic opening to restrict earwax from entering the channel. This can be achieved by a first protective element that partially obstructs the channel through the first acoustic opening while still allowing sound to pass through.

[0063] The second protective element may be arranged longitudinally offset from the first protective element, wherein the second protective element may be closer to the first sound opening than the first protective element.

[0064] The first and second protective elements may extend laterally to the longitudinal direction and may be arranged offset from each other in the longitudinal direction. In the context of this invention, the term "longitudinal offset" should be understood as the centerline of the first protective element in the longitudinal direction being offset relative to the centerline of the second protective element in the longitudinal direction.

[0065] In one embodiment, the distance between the centerline of the first protective element and the centerline of the second protective element is at least 0.5 mm, such as in the range of 0.5-5.0 mm. In another embodiment, the first and second protective elements can be in contact with each other, because the centerlines can be offset longitudinally while the first and second protective elements are in contact with each other.

[0066] Because the second protective element can be positioned closer to the first sound opening than the first protective element, earwax moving from the user's ear canal will have to pass through the first protective element first, and then through the second protective element to enter the channel of the receiver housing. The permeability of the first protective element can be greater than that of the second protective element to increase protection closer to the channel. In the context of this invention, the term "permeability" should be understood as the ability of a protective element to allow materials such as earwax to pass through. In one embodiment, the first and second protective elements can be a mesh, wherein the opening of the second protective element (second mesh) can be smaller than the opening of the first protective element (first mesh). In this embodiment, permeability can also be determined by "mesh opening size" and / or "opening percentage".

[0067] The first and / or second protective element may comprise a mesh, for example, made of metal or of a plastic material (such as polyamide (PA / nylon)), polyalkylene terephthalate (such as polyethylene terephthalate, PET)), or another polymer that can be used to form the woven mesh. In an alternative embodiment, at least the second protective element may be, for example, a foam made of polyurethane.

[0068] As an example, the second protective element in the form of a grid can preferably have a 30 Up to 1000 Mesh opening size within a range, such as in 70 Up to 200 Within this range. Additionally, the percentage of openings in the second mesh by area can preferably be in the range of 20% to 70%, such as in the range of 40% to 60%. The first protective element in the form of a mesh can correspondingly have a larger mesh opening size and / or a larger percentage of openings.

[0069] The second protective element in the form of foam can preferably have a PPI (pores per inch) value in the range of 20-120 PPI (such as in the range of 70-110 PPI). The foam will preferably have acoustic properties comparable to those of the second protective element in the form of a grid as specified above, which can be achieved by selecting the thickness and pore density of the foam in the longitudinal direction.

[0070] In one embodiment, the first and / or second protective elements may possess hydrophobic or oleophobic properties. As an example, this can be achieved by coating the first and / or second protective elements or by making them from materials with hydrophobic or oleophobic properties. In addition to a physical barrier, hydrophobic or oleophobic properties can also provide a chemical barrier for earwax.

[0071] Additionally, providing a protective element with greater thickness (i.e., the dimension along the longitudinal direction) can also increase the protection provided by the element, since earwax can adhere to a larger surface area of ​​the protective element.

[0072] The first protective element can be positioned closer to the front end of the circumferential member and can be integrally formed with the circumferential member, for example, by molding. Alternatively, the first protective element can be attached to the circumferential member by overmolding. The first protective element can be formed as a separate element, which can then be attached to the circumferential member, for example, by gluing.

[0073] In one embodiment, the second protective element may be integrally formed with the extension, for example, by molding. Alternatively, as part of the molding process, the second protective element may be attached to the extension, for example, by overmolding. In a further alternative, the second protective element may be formed as a separate element, which may then be attached to the extension or to the circumferential member, for example, by gluing.

[0074] To prevent buckling of the circumferential member, at least one reinforcing rib may be arranged along the surface (preferably the inner surface) of the circumferential member to increase its stiffness. In one embodiment, this at least one reinforcing rib may be arranged circumferentially along the inner surface of the circumferential member, for example, in the region at the rear end. One or more reinforcing ribs may extend from the surface (preferably the inner surface) toward the extension and may terminate at a free end. In an alternative embodiment, the at least one reinforcing rib may be arranged along the surface (preferably the inner surface) extending substantially longitudinally from the region at the rear end toward the front end. One or more reinforcing ribs may be integrally formed with the circumferential member, or alternatively, may be separate elements subsequently attached to the circumferential member. Advantageously, one or more reinforcing ribs may be made of a flexible material (such as silicone or TPE), for example, to allow the circumferential member to adapt to the shape of the ear canal and / or facilitate dome insertion into and / or removal from the ear canal.

[0075] At least one reinforcing rib (preferably at least two reinforcing ribs) may be arranged along the surface (preferably the inner surface) of the extension to increase the rigidity of the extension. This facilitates attachment of the dome to the receiver housing, as the reinforcing rib(s) prevents buckling of the extension during assembly of the receiver assembly in the ear canal. The reinforcing rib(s) may be integrally formed with the extension, or alternatively may be separate elements subsequently attached to the extension.

[0076] According to a third aspect, the present invention provides a dome for an in-ear canal receiver assembly, the dome comprising: - A circumferential member configured to be circumferentially arranged around the receiver housing and extending longitudinally between a front end and a rear end, wherein a second sound opening is arranged at the front end, the second sound opening being configured for the passage of sound. - An extension that extends longitudinally from the inner surface of the circumferential member and forms a base for the receiver housing. The extension includes a second engagement structure configured to engage with a first engagement structure of the receiver housing. The first and second engagement structures are configured to engage with each other to releasably lock the dome to the receiver housing by elastic deformation of at least one of the first and second engagement structures. The extension includes at least two gripping arms and / or reinforcing ribs configured to extend along the outer surface of the receiver housing on opposite sides of the receiver housing.

[0077] According to a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a receiver housing for an in-ear receiver assembly, the in-ear receiver assembly including a receiver housing, a receiver, and a dome, the receiver housing including a channel disposed inside the receiver housing and extending longitudinally between a first end and an opposing second end, wherein a first sound opening is disposed at the first end and configured for the passage of sound, wherein the receiver housing includes a first engagement structure configured to engage with a dome including a second engagement structure and configured to releasably lock the dome to the receiver housing by elastic deformation of the first engagement structure and / or the second engagement structure, and wherein the channel is configured to position at least a portion of the receiver in the channel at a longitudinal distance from the first end, the longitudinal distance being less than the longitudinal distance from the first end to the portion of the first engagement structure closest to the second end.

[0078] It should be understood that those skilled in the art will readily recognize that any feature described in connection with the first aspect of the invention can also be combined with the second aspect of the invention, and vice versa.

[0079] The dome according to the third aspect of the invention is particularly well suited for in-ear receiver assemblies according to the first and / or second aspects of this disclosure. Therefore, the comments made above regarding in-ear receiver assemblies also apply to the dome.

[0080] The receiver housing according to the fourth aspect of the invention is particularly well suited for in-ear receiver assemblies according to the first and / or second aspects of this disclosure. Therefore, the comments set forth above regarding in-ear receiver assemblies also apply to receiver housings. Attached Figure Description

[0081] Embodiments of the present invention will now be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figures 1A-1C Different embodiments of the in-ear receiver assembly are illustrated; Figures 2A-2C Illustrations in different views Figures 1A-1C The receiver component inside the ear canal; Figure 3 The diagram shows Figure 1A The dome of the receiver assembly inside the ear canal; Figure 4 The diagram shows Figure 3 Different views of the dome; Figure 5 The diagram shows Figure 3 Different views of the dome; Figure 6 An alternative embodiment of a dome for an in-ear receiver assembly is illustrated; Figure 7 An alternative embodiment of the in-ear receiver assembly is illustrated; Figure 8 The diagram shows Figure 7 Different views of the receiver assembly inside the ear canal; Figure 9 The diagram shows Figure 7 Different views of the receiver assembly inside the ear canal; Figure 10 The diagram shows Figure 7 Different views of the receiver assembly inside the ear canal; Figure 11 An alternative embodiment of the in-ear receiver assembly is illustrated; Figure 12 The diagram shows Figure 11 Different views of the receiver assembly inside the ear canal; Figure 13 The diagram shows Figure 7 and Figure 11 The longitudinal cross-section of the receiver housing 2; Figure 14 The diagram shows Figure 7 and Figure 11 The longitudinal cross-section of the first alternative to the receiver housing 2; Figure 15 The diagram shows Figure 7 and Figure 11 The longitudinal cross-section of the second alternative to the receiver housing 2; and Figure 16 (a) The diagram shows Figure 7 and Figure 11 The longitudinal cross-section of the third alternative to the receiver housing 2, and Figure 16 (b) A three-dimensional view of the same receiver housing 2 is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0082] It should be understood that while this detailed description and specific examples point out embodiments of the present disclosure, they are given by way of illustration only, as various changes and modifications within the scope of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art through this detailed description.

[0083] Figures 1A-1C Different embodiments of an in-ear receiver assembly 1 are illustrated. The in-ear receiver assembly 1 includes a receiver housing 2 that defines a channel (not shown) extending in a longitudinal direction (indicated by arrow A). The receiver housing 2 extends between a first end 4 and an opposing second end 5, wherein a first sound opening 6 is disposed at the first end 4. A receiver (not shown) is disposed in the channel, and the first sound opening 6 is configured for the passage of sound from the receiver.

[0084] The in-the-ear receiver assembly further includes a dome 8, which comprises a circumferential member 9 and an extension 13. The circumferential member 9 is circumferentially arranged around the receiver housing 2 and extends in the longitudinal direction between a front end 10 and a rear end 11. A second sound opening 12 is arranged at the front end 10, wherein the second sound opening 12 is configured for the passage of sound. The extension 13 extends in the longitudinal direction from the inner surface 14 of the circumferential member 9 and forms a base for the receiver housing 2 (in Figures 1A-1C not shown). The base 35 (for example, see Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 7 ) is formed by a portion of the extension 13 that matches a portion of the outer surface of the receiver housing 2, thereby providing an interface for the receiver housing 2 to support the receiver housing 2.

[0085] The receiver housing 2 comprises a first engagement structure 18, and the extension comprises a second engagement structure 19. The first engagement structure and the second engagement structure are configured to engage with each other to releasably lock the dome 8 to the receiver housing 2 by elastic deformation of at least one of the first engagement structure and the second engagement structure. Further details of the first engagement structure 18 and the second engagement structure 19 will be described hereinafter.

[0086] In Figures 1A-1C , in each of the three different embodiments of the in-the-ear receiver assembly 1, the dome 8 including the circumferential member 9 and the extension 13 is identical. Only the receiver housing 2 differs between one embodiment and another. The receiver housing 2 illustrated in Figure 1A is small, is of medium size in Figure 1B , and is large in Figure 1C , wherein the size refers to the dimension of the receiver housing 2 transverse to the longitudinal direction. In Figure 1A , the dimension of the receiver housing 2 transverse to the longitudinal direction at the position of the first engagement structure 18 is similar to the dimension of the extension 13 at the position of the second engagement structure 19. In Figure 1B and Figure 1C , the dimension (width) of the extension 13 at the position of the second engagement structure 19 is smaller than the dimension (width) of the receiver housing 2 transverse to the longitudinal direction at the position of the first engagement structure 18. Furthermore, it can be seen that the receiver housing 2 extends beyond the extension 13 at the positions of the first engagement structure 18 and the second engagement structure 19.

[0087] Figures 2A-2C illustrates in a different view (i.e., a view along the longitudinal direction towards the second end 5 of the receiver housing 2) the in-the-ear receiver assembly 1 in Figures 1A-1C . The receiver housing 2 illustrated in Figure 2A is small, is of medium size in Figure 2B , and is large in Figure 2C is relatively large, wherein the dimension refers to the dimension (i.e., the width) of the receiver housing 2 transverse to the longitudinal direction (indicated by arrow A'). In Figure 2B and Figure 2C , the dimension of the extension portion 13 at the position of the second engagement structure 19 is smaller than the dimension of the receiver housing 2 at the position of the first engagement structure 18 transverse to the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, it can be seen that the receiver housing 2 extends beyond the extension portion 13 at the positions of the first engagement structure 18 and the second engagement structure 19.

[0088] Figures 3-5 illustrate, in different views, an embodiment of the dome 8 of the in-ear receiver assembly 1 Figure 1A . The dome 8 comprises a circumferential member 9 and an extension portion 13. The circumferential member 9 is configured to be arranged circumferentially around the receiver housing 2 (see Figures 1A-1C ) and extends in the longitudinal direction between a front end 10 and a rear end 11. A second sound opening 12 is arranged at the front end 10. The extension portion 13 forms a base 35 for the receiver housing 2. The base 35 is formed by a part of the inner surface of the extension portion 13, wherein this part matches a part of the outer surface of the receiver housing 2, thereby providing an interface for the receiver housing 2 to support the receiver housing 2.

[0089] In the illustrated embodiment, the extension portion 13 and the circumferential member 9 are formed as two separate elements, which are subsequently attached to each other to impede movement of the extension portion 13 and the circumferential member 9 relative to each other.

[0090] The extension portion 13 is formed of a first material, and the circumferential member 9 is formed of a second material, wherein the second material is more flexible than the first material. By providing the circumferential member made of the second material which is more flexible than the first material, it can be achieved that the outer shape of the circumferential member can be changed, so as to facilitate insertion / removal of the dome and / or facilitate adaptation of the outer shape of the circumferential member to the inner shape of the ear canal, which can allow it to remain in place in the ear canal.

[0091] The extension portion 13 is formed of a first material, wherein the first material is less flexible than the second material, which can facilitate engagement between the extension portion and the receiver housing via the first engagement structure 18 and the second engagement structure 19, wherein in Figures 3-5 only the second engagement structure 19 is visible.

[0092] In the illustrated embodiment, the extension portion 13 comprises two elongated gripping arms 21, each gripping arm being configured to extend along the outer surface of the receiver housing on opposite sides of the receiver housing (for example, see Figure 1A ). The second engagement structure 19 in the form of a protrusion 19A extends from each gripping arm 21, for engaging with the groove 18A (see Figure 1AThe first engagement structure 18 engages in the form of a groove provided on one side of the outer surface of the receiver housing. When the dome 8 and the receiver housing are pushed together, the gripping arm 21 will flex outward due to the elastic deformation of the extension 13. When the protrusion 19A aligns with the groove 18A, the flexing of the gripping arm 13 stops, and the first engagement structure 18 engages with the second engagement structure 19. Groove 18A (see...) Figure 1A It is provided on the opposite side of the receiver housing 2 and extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0093] To facilitate attachment of the extension 13 to the circumferential member 9, the circumferential member 9 includes a collar member 23 that extends outward from the inner surface of the circumferential member 9 toward the receiver housing 2 and terminates at a free end 23A. The collar member 23 has an inner shape that matches the outer shape of a portion of the extension 13 for attaching the extension 13 to the circumferential member 9 by inserting the extension 13 into the collar member 23. The extension 13 may be attached to the circumferential member 9 by, for example, friction, by gluing, by chemical bonding, or by overmolding.

[0094] The dome 8 includes a first protective element 16 configured transversely to the first acoustic opening to restrict earwax from entering the channel. In the illustrated embodiment, the first protective element 16 is integrally formed with the circumferential member 9.

[0095] The dome 8 also includes a second protective element 17, similarly configured transversely to the first sound opening to restrict earwax from entering the channel. The second protective element 17 is longitudinally offset from the first protective element 16, wherein, in the assembled state of the receiver assembly 1 within the ear canal (see...), Figure 1A The second protective element 17 is closer to the first sound opening than the first protective element 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the second protective element 17 is a separate element in the form of a mesh, which is fixed to the extension 13.

[0096] Figure 6 An alternative embodiment of the dome 8 for the in-ear receiver assembly 1 is illustrated. Except for the two-part silicone sleeve 30 arranged between the gripping arms 21, the dome 8 and... Figures 3-5 Similar to the dome 8 shown in the diagram, one portion is arranged on one side of arm 21 and another portion on the other side of arm 21 to provide a sleeve 30 for the receiver housing when attached to the dome 9. When attached to the dome 9, the sleeve 30 can provide an acoustic seal along a portion of the outer surface of the receiver housing. It should be understood that the sleeve 30 can alternatively be made of another flexible material, flexible enough to allow receiver housings of different sizes to be attached to the dome 9, such as... Figures 1A-1C and Figures 2A-2CThe diagram shows small, medium, and large receiver housings, but the sleeve 30 is omitted in these diagrams.

[0097] Figures 7-10 Alternative embodiments of the in-ear receiver assembly 1 are illustrated in different views. Figures 7-8 In the middle, the receiver inside the ear canal is in an unassembled state, while Figures 9-10 In the image, the in-ear receiver assembly is in an assembled state. The in-ear receiver assembly 1 includes a receiver housing 2 defining a channel (not shown) extending longitudinally (indicated by arrow A) between a first end 4 and an opposing second end 5. A first sound opening 6 configured for sound passage is disposed at the first end 4. A receiver (not shown) for generating sound is disposed within the channel. A dome 8 configured for releasable attachment to the receiver housing 2 includes a circumferential member 9 and an extension 13 and extends longitudinally between a front end 10 and a rear end 11. A second sound opening 12 is disposed at the front end 10. The extension 13 forms a base 35 for the receiver housing 2. The base 35 is formed by a portion of the inner surface of the extension 13, which mates with a portion of the outer surface of the receiver housing 2, thereby providing an interface for supporting the receiver housing 2.

[0098] In this embodiment, the extension 13 and the circumferential member 9 are integrally formed of a material that is more flexible than the material forming the receiver housing 2, so as to allow deformation of the circumferential member 9 during the insertion and removal of the receiver assembly 1 from the user's ear canal and allow elastic deformation of the second engagement structure when the dome 8 is attached to the receiver housing 2.

[0099] The receiver housing 2 includes a first engagement structure 18 in the form of a plurality of engagement ribs 18B extending circumferentially around a portion of the outer surface of the receiver housing 2, while the dome 8 includes a second engagement structure 19 in the form of a recess 19B extending circumferentially along the inner surface of the extension 13. The engagement ribs 18B extend substantially parallel to each other and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The engagement ribs 18B are integrally formed with the receiver housing 2. A corresponding number of recesses 19B extend along the inner surface of the extension, thereby providing a recess 19B for each engagement rib 18B. The recesses 19B are formed as part of a molding process for the extension 13. By forming the extension 13 from an elastically deformable material, when the first engagement structure 18 (engagement rib) and the second engagement structure 19 (recess) are engaged, the dome 8 can be releasably locked to the receiver housing 2 by the elastic deformation of the recesses.

[0100] Each joining rib 18B terminates at a free rib end 25, wherein each rib end 25 forms an inclined edge along the longitudinal direction, thereby the height h of each joining rib at the first edge 26A of each rib is lower than the height at the second edge 26B of each rib (see...). Figure 8 (Details in the text). The first edge 26A is the edge closer to the first end 4 of the receiver housing 2, while the second edge 26B is the edge closer to the second end 5 of the receiver housing 2.

[0101] In the cross-section along the longitudinal direction, multiple joining ribs 18B together form a serrated shape. Additionally, the transverse dimension of the receiver housing 2 gradually decreases along a portion of the receiver housing toward the first end 4, which further facilitates the attachment of the dome 8 to the receiver housing 2.

[0102] Multiple indentations 19B formed along the inner surface of the extension 13 have a cross-sectional shape that matches the cross-sectional shape of the engagement rib 18B to facilitate locking of the dome 8 to the receiver housing 2.

[0103] The dome 8 includes a first protective element 16 configured to be arranged laterally to the first sound opening 6 when the receiver assembly 1 is assembled in the ear canal to restrict earwax from entering the channel. In the illustrated embodiment, the first protective element 16 is integrally formed with the circumferential member 9.

[0104] Figures 11-12 Alternative embodiments of the in-ear receiver assembly 1 are illustrated in different views. Except for two reinforcing ribs 27 arranged along the inner surface of the extension 13 within the extension 13, the dome-shaped in-ear receiver assembly 1... Figures 7-10 Similar to the in-ear receiver assembly 1 shown in the middle diagram. Reinforcing ribs 27 are arranged to reinforce the extension, thereby preventing the extension 13 from collapsing during the attachment of the dome 8 to the receiver housing 2. Reinforcing ribs 27 are made of a material that is not as flexible as the material used to make the extension.

[0105] Figure 13 The diagram shows Figure 7 and Figure 11The receiver housing 2 has a longitudinal cross-section. The receiver housing 2 defines a channel 32 extending longitudinally between a first end 4 and an opposing second end 5. A first sound opening 6, configured for sound passage, is arranged at the first end 4. A receiver 30 for generating sound is arranged in the channel 32. Sound exits the receiver 30 through a receiver sound opening 31 acoustically connected to the first sound opening 6. An opening 33 for a wire (not shown) is provided in the receiver housing 2 at the opposing end 5. The receiver 30 may occupy at least 50%, such as at least 80% or at least 90%, of the volume of the channel 32. The receiver 30 may include a rear volume and a front volume separated by a diaphragm (not shown). A motor (such as a magnetic motor) driving the diaphragm is typically provided in the rear volume of the receiver 30. The receiver 30 (particularly the rear volume of the receiver) may have a vent opening, allowing air to pass through the portion of the channel 32 closest to the second end 5. Alternatively or additionally, a portion of channel 32 not occupied by receiver 30 may be used for additional sensors or valves, etc. (not shown).

[0106] Figure 14 The diagram shows Figure 7 and Figure 11 The longitudinal cross-section of a first alternative to the receiver housing 2. In this embodiment, a sound channel 35 configured for sound to pass from the receiver sound opening 31 to the first sound opening 6 is provided between the first opening 6 and the receiver sound opening 31. The sound channel 35 may be a substantially straight cylindrical or rectangular prism shape, thereby acoustically connecting the first opening 6 and the receiver sound opening 31 via the shortest possible distance. Depending on the shape and effective length of the sound channel 35, it will have a certain acoustic quality. The acoustic quality can help suppress certain resonance peaks in the output of the receiver assembly within the ear canal. The sound channel 35 may have a defined acoustic quality, such as greater than 4000 kg / m². 4 In one embodiment, such as Figure 14 As shown, the sound channel 35 can have a meandering shape to increase the effective length of the sound channel 35 while keeping the total length of the receiver housing 2 to a minimum. If desired, a microphone (not shown) can be positioned in the channel 32, such as between the receiver 30 and the sound opening 6, wherein the sound opening 6 is in acoustic communication with the microphone sound inlet. Alternatively and preferably, the microphone has a separate sound inlet. In this embodiment, the meandering sound channel 35 is generally not as... Figure 14 Instead of meandering across essentially the entire width of the receiver housing 2 as shown, it meanders only across a portion of the width (such as the front half of that width), where the microphone is then positioned in the rear half of that width.

[0107] Figure 15 The diagram shows Figure 7 and Figure 11The second alternative longitudinal cross-section of the receiver housing 2. In this embodiment, the receiver 30 is provided with a receiver sound opening 31, which is acoustically in communication with the first sound opening 6 via a sound channel 36, which is disposed inside the receiver housing 2 between the outer shell of the receiver 30 and the wall of the channel 32 in the receiver housing 2. The sound channel 36 is configured to have a defined acoustic quality, such as greater than 4000 kg / m². 4 If desired, a microphone (not shown) can be positioned in channel 32, such as between receiver 30 and sound opening 6, wherein sound opening 6 is in acoustic communication with the microphone sound inlet. Alternatively and preferably, the microphone has a separate sound inlet.

[0108] Figure 16 (a) The diagram shows Figure 7 and Figure 11 The longitudinal cross-section of the third alternative to the receiver housing 2, and Figure 16 (b) A three-dimensional view of the same receiver housing 2 is illustrated. In this embodiment, the receiver 30 is provided with a receiver sound opening 31, which is acoustically connected to a first sound opening 6 via a sound channel, which is partially formed by a groove 37 on the outside of the receiver housing 2. The inner wall of the extension of the dome (not shown) together with the groove 37 on the outside of the receiver housing 2 forms the sound channel of the in-ear receiver assembly according to the invention. This sound channel is configured to have a defined acoustic quality, such as greater than 4000 kg / m². 4 .

[0109] Please provide the following items with the specified numbers: Project 1. An in-ear receiver assembly, comprising: - Defines a receiver housing for a channel extending longitudinally between a first end and an opposing second end, wherein a first sound opening is disposed at the first end, the first sound opening being configured for the passage of sound. - Receivers placed in the channel, and - Dome, including: - A circumferential member, which is circumferentially arranged around the receiver housing and extends longitudinally between the front and rear ends, wherein a second sound opening is arranged at the front end and configured for the passage of sound. - An extension that extends longitudinally from the inner surface of the circumferential member and forms a base for the receiver housing. The receiver housing includes a first engagement structure and the extension includes a second engagement structure. The first and second engagement structures are configured to engage with each other to releasably lock the dome to the receiver housing by elastic deformation of at least one of the first and second engagement structures.

[0110] Item 2. The in-ear receiver assembly according to Item 1, wherein at least a portion of the receiver is arranged in the channel at a longitudinal distance from the first end, the longitudinal distance being less than the longitudinal distance from the first end to the portion of the first engagement structure closest to the second end.

[0111] Item 3. The in-ear receiver assembly according to Item 1 or 2, wherein the extension includes at least two gripping arms and / or reinforcing ribs extending along the outer surface of the receiver housing on opposite sides of the receiver housing.

[0112] Item 4. The in-ear receiver assembly according to Item 1, 2 or 3, wherein each of the first engagement structure and the second engagement structure includes at least two engagement elements extending transversely to the longitudinal direction.

[0113] Item 5. An in-ear receiver assembly according to any of the preceding items, wherein a first engagement structure includes a plurality of engagement ribs extending circumferentially around an outer surface of the receiver housing, and wherein a second engagement structure includes a plurality of recesses extending circumferentially along an inner surface of the extension.

[0114] Item 6. The in-ear receiver assembly according to Item 5, wherein each engagement rib terminates at a free rib end, and each rib end forms an inclined edge along the longitudinal direction.

[0115] Item 7. The in-ear receiver assembly according to Item 5 or 6, wherein the plurality of engaging ribs are serrated in cross-section along the longitudinal direction.

[0116] Item 8. An in-ear receiver assembly according to any one of Items 5-7, wherein the plurality of recesses have a cross-sectional shape that matches the cross-sectional shape of the engagement rib.

[0117] Item 9. An in-ear receiver assembly according to any of the preceding items, wherein the transverse dimension of the receiver housing gradually decreases along a portion of the receiver housing toward a first end.

[0118] Item 10. An in-ear receiver assembly according to Items 1, 2, 3 or 4, wherein a first engagement structure includes two grooves extending along an outer surface of the receiver housing, and wherein a second engagement structure includes two protrusions extending inward from an inner surface of the extension toward the receiver housing.

[0119] Item 11. The in-ear receiver assembly according to Item 10, wherein the extension includes two elongated gripping arms that extend along the outer surface of the receiver housing on opposite sides of the receiver housing, and a protrusion extends from each gripping arm.

[0120] Item 12. The in-ear receiver assembly according to Item 10 or 11, wherein the shape of the groove matches the shape of the protrusion.

[0121] Item 13. An in-ear receiver assembly according to any of the preceding items, wherein the circumferential member and the extension are integrally formed.

[0122] Item 14. An in-ear receiver assembly according to any one of items 1-13, wherein the extension is formed of a first material and the circumferential member is formed of a second material, the second material being more flexible than the first material.

[0123] Item 15. The in-ear receiver assembly according to Item 14, wherein the circumferential member includes a collar member extending toward the receiver housing and terminating at a free end, the collar member having a shape matching the external shape of a portion of the extension for attaching the extension to the circumferential member.

[0124] Item 16. The in-ear receiver assembly according to Item 14 or 15, wherein the circumferential member is attached to the extension by gluing or molding.

[0125] Item 17. The in-ear receiver assembly according to any of the preceding items, wherein the first length of the circumferential member from the front end to the rear end in the longitudinal direction is in the range of 25% to less than 100% of the second length of the extension in the longitudinal direction.

[0126] Item 18. An in-ear receiver assembly according to any of the preceding items, wherein a support element is arranged at least partially circumferentially around the extension to support the circumferential member along a portion of the inner surface of the circumferential member between the front and rear ends.

[0127] Item 19. An in-ear receiver assembly according to any of the preceding items, wherein a cavity is formed along at least a portion of the outer surface of the extension and along the longitudinal direction on at least a portion of the inner surface of the circumferential member.

[0128] Item 20. The in-ear receiver assembly according to Item 19 further includes a barrier member disposed in the cavity, the barrier member being configured to limit earwax entry into the cavity by providing an obstruction element within the cavity.

[0129] Item 21. An in-ear receiver assembly according to any of the preceding items, wherein a first protective element is arranged transversely to a first acoustic opening to restrict earwax from entering the channel.

[0130] Item 22. The in-ear receiver assembly according to Item 21, wherein a second protective element is arranged longitudinally offset from a first protective element, the second protective element being closer to a first sound opening than the first protective element.

[0131] Item 23. The in-ear receiver assembly according to Items 21 and 22, wherein the permeability of the first protective element is greater than that of the second protective element.

[0132] Item 24. An in-ear receiver assembly according to any one of items 21-23, wherein a first protective element is integrally formed with a circumferential member.

[0133] Item 25. An in-ear receiver assembly according to any of the preceding items, wherein at least one reinforcing rib is arranged along the inner surface of the circumferential member to increase the stiffness of the circumferential member.

[0134] Item 26. An in-ear receiver assembly according to any of the foregoing items other than Item 3 and any items in the embodiments of Item 3, wherein at least one reinforcing rib is arranged along the inner surface of the extension to increase the rigidity of the extension.

[0135] Item 27. An in-ear receiver assembly according to Item 3 and any embodiment of Item 3, wherein the extension includes at least two reinforcing ribs extending along the outer surface of the receiver housing on opposite sides of the receiver housing, and wherein at least one reinforcing rib (preferably each reinforcing rib) is arranged along the surface (preferably the inner surface) of the extension to increase the rigidity of the extension.

[0136] Item 28. An in-ear receiver assembly according to any of the preceding items, wherein the receiver housing does not include a nozzle.

[0137] Item 29. An in-ear receiver assembly according to any of the preceding items, wherein the receiver housing includes a sound channel configured for sound to travel from a receiver sound opening disposed in a channel of the receiver housing to a first sound opening, and preferably such sound channel has a strength greater than 4000 kg / m². 4 The sound quality.

[0138] Item 30. The in-ear receiver assembly according to Item 29, wherein the sound channel has a meandering shape.

[0139] Item 31. An in-ear receiver assembly according to any of the preceding items, wherein the receiver is electrically connected to a conductive wire at a first end of a wire, the wire terminating at a connector at a second end of the wire, the connector being configured to connect to a second connector located in a hearing device housing outside the ear canal.

[0140] Item 32. A dome for an in-ear receiver assembly, the dome comprising: - A circumferential member configured to be circumferentially arranged around the receiver housing and extending longitudinally between a front end and a rear end, wherein a second audio opening is arranged at the front end and configured for the passage of sound. - An extension that extends longitudinally from the inner surface of the circumferential member and forms a base for the receiver housing. The extension includes a second engagement structure configured to engage with a first engagement structure of the receiver housing. The first and second engagement structures are configured to engage with each other to releasably lock the dome to the receiver housing by elastic deformation of at least one of the first and second engagement structures.

[0141] Item 33. The dome according to Item 32, wherein the extension includes at least two gripping arms and / or reinforcing ribs configured to extend along the outer surface of the receiver housing on opposite sides of the receiver housing.

[0142] Item 34. The dome according to items 32 and 33, wherein the extension is configured to engage with a receiver housing (such as that described in item 28) excluding the nozzle and / or configured to engage with a receiver housing (such as that described in item 2 or 35).

[0143] Item 35. A receiver housing for an in-ear receiver assembly, the in-ear receiver assembly including a receiver housing, a receiver, and a dome, the receiver housing including a channel disposed inside the receiver housing and extending longitudinally between a first end and an opposing second end, wherein a first sound opening is disposed at the first end and configured for the passage of sound, wherein the receiver housing includes a first engagement structure configured to engage with a dome including a second engagement structure and configured to releasably lock the dome to the receiver housing by elastic deformation of the first engagement structure and / or the second engagement structure, and wherein the channel is configured to position at least a portion of the receiver in the channel at a longitudinal distance from the first end, the longitudinal distance being less than the longitudinal distance from the first end to the portion of the first engagement structure closest to the second end.

[0144] Item 36. The receiver housing according to Item 35, wherein the first engagement structure includes at least two engagement elements extending transversely to the longitudinal direction.

[0145] Item 37. The receiver housing according to Item 35 or 36, wherein the first engagement structure includes a plurality of engagement ribs extending circumferentially around the outer surface of the receiver housing, wherein, preferably, each engagement rib terminates at a free rib end, each rib end forming an inclined edge along the longitudinal direction.

[0146] Item 38. The receiver housing according to Item 37, wherein the plurality of engaging ribs are serrated in cross-section along the longitudinal direction.

[0147] Item 39. The receiver housing according to any one of the preceding items 35-38, wherein the transverse dimension of the receiver housing gradually decreases along a portion of the receiver housing toward the first end.

[0148] Item 40. A hearing aid device comprising an in-ear receiver assembly according to Item 31, and a hearing device housing including: a second connector configured for connection to a connector of the in-ear receiver assembly; a power source, such as a battery; one or more microphones configured to receive sound from a source outside the ear canal of a person and generate one or more first output signals; and a processor configured to provide a drive signal to a voice coil in the in-ear receiver assembly based on the one or more first output signals.

Claims

1. An in-ear receiver assembly, comprising: - Defines a receiver housing for a channel extending longitudinally between a first end and an opposing second end, wherein a first sound opening is disposed at the first end and configured for the passage of sound. - Receivers placed in the channel, and - Dome, including: - A circumferential member, circumferentially arranged around the receiver housing and extending longitudinally between a front end and a rear end, wherein a second sound opening is arranged at the front end and configured for the passage of sound. - An extension that extends longitudinally from the inner surface of the circumferential member and forms a base for the receiver housing. The receiver housing includes a first engagement structure and an extension includes a second engagement structure, the first and second engagement structures being configured to engage with each other to releasably lock the dome to the receiver housing by elastic deformation of at least one of the first and second engagement structures, and wherein the extension includes at least two gripping arms and / or reinforcing ribs extending along the outer surface of the receiver housing on opposite sides of the receiver housing.

2. The in-ear receiver assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the first engagement structure and the second engagement structure includes at least two engagement elements extending transversely to the longitudinal direction.

3. The in-ear receiver assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first engagement structure includes a plurality of engagement ribs extending circumferentially around the outer surface of the receiver housing, and wherein the second engagement structure includes a plurality of recesses extending circumferentially along the inner surface of the extension.

4. The in-ear receiver assembly of claim 3, wherein each engagement rib terminates at a free rib end, each rib end forming an inclined edge along the longitudinal direction.

5. The in-ear receiver assembly according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the plurality of engaging ribs are serrated in cross-section along the longitudinal direction.

6. The in-ear receiver assembly according to any one of claims 3-5, wherein the plurality of recesses have a cross-sectional shape that matches the cross-sectional shape of the engagement rib.

7. The in-ear receiver assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the transverse dimension of the receiver housing gradually decreases along a portion of the receiver housing toward the first end.

8. The in-ear receiver assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first engagement structure includes two grooves extending along the outer surface of the receiver housing, and wherein the second engagement structure includes two protrusions extending inward from the inner surface of the extension toward the receiver housing.

9. The in-ear receiver assembly of claim 8, wherein the extension includes two elongated gripping arms that extend along an outer surface of the receiver housing on opposite sides of the receiver housing, wherein a protrusion extends from each gripping arm.

10. The in-ear receiver assembly of claim 8 or 9, wherein the shape of the groove matches the shape of the protrusion.

11. The in-ear receiver assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the circumferential member and the extension are integrally formed.

12. The in-ear receiver assembly according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the extension is formed of a first material and the circumferential member is formed of a second material, the second material being more flexible than the first material.

13. The in-ear receiver assembly of claim 12, wherein the circumferential member includes a collar member extending toward the receiver housing and terminating at a free end, the collar member having a shape matching the external shape of a portion of the extension for attaching the extension to the circumferential member.

14. The in-ear receiver assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the extension includes at least two reinforcing ribs extending along the outer surface of the receiver housing on opposite sides of the receiver housing, wherein at least one reinforcing rib is arranged along the inner surface of the extension.

15. A dome for an in-ear receiver assembly, the dome comprising: - A circumferential member configured to be circumferentially arranged around the receiver housing and extending longitudinally between a front end and a rear end, wherein a second sound opening is arranged at the front end and configured for the passage of sound. - An extension that extends longitudinally from the inner surface of the circumferential member and forms a base for the receiver housing. The extension includes a second engagement structure configured to engage with a first engagement structure of the receiver housing. The first and second engagement structures are configured to engage with each other to releasably lock the dome to the receiver housing by elastic deformation of at least one of the first and second engagement structures. The extension includes at least two gripping arms and / or reinforcing ribs configured to extend along the outer surface of the receiver housing on opposite sides of the receiver housing.

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