Automatic cleaning device for earplugs
The automated earbud cleaning device addresses inefficiencies in existing methods by adapting to earbud dimensions, using AI and UV light for comprehensive cleaning and sterilization, ensuring thorough and safe earbud care.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- DE202024106583
- Authority / Receiving Office
- DE · DE
- Patent Type
- Utility models
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-11-14
- Publication Date
- 2025-01-09
- Estimated Expiration
- 2034-11-30
AI Technical Summary
Existing earbud cleaning methods are inefficient, time-consuming, and can damage the earbuds, fail to reach deep-rooted dirt, and do not provide comprehensive cleaning and sterilization, leading to compromised sound quality and health risks.
An automated earbud cleaning device with a touch-sensitive display, motorized components, AI imaging, and UV lamp, which adapts to earbud dimensions, applies cleaning solutions, removes debris with grippers and brushes, and sterilizes using UV light, all controlled by a microcontroller.
The device provides thorough, efficient, and safe cleaning and sterilization with minimal user intervention, extending earbud lifespan and ensuring hygiene, while maintaining sound quality.
Smart Images

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Abstract
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to an automatic earbud cleaning device capable of facilitating the process of cleaning earbuds by providing a user with an automatic earbud cleaning solution that removes debris, dirt, and blockages from the earbuds without damaging the earbuds during cleaning. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Earbuds have become an essential part of modern life, with over 1 billion units sold worldwide each year. Approximately 75% of smartphone users use earbuds for music, podcasts, or phone calls, driving the growing demand for wireless earbuds. However, their small size and complicated design make them prone to debris buildup, compromising sound quality and hygiene. The compact design and delicate components of earbuds make them vulnerable to buildup, bacterial growth, and damage. Debris such as dust, wax, and sweat clog the speakers and impair sound quality, while warm and humid environments create ideal conditions for bacterial growth, which can lead to infection.
[0003] The consequences of poor earplug care are significant. Sound quality is compromised when debris muffles or distorts the sound, while bacterial growth can lead to ear infections or other health problems. Furthermore, improper cleaning can damage earplug components and shorten their lifespan. These challenges underscore the need for an innovative cleaning solution that meets the unique requirements of earplugs and ensures optimal sound quality, hygiene, and user satisfaction.
[0004] Conventional methods for cleaning earbuds include manual cleaning with soft cloths, cotton swabs, and brushes, as well as chemical cleaning with alcohol wipes, earbud cleaning solutions, and hydrogen peroxide. Additionally, some users use ultrasonic cleaners, vacuum cleaners, and compressed air to remove debris. However, these methods have several disadvantages: Manual cleaning is time-consuming and ineffective, allowing debris to penetrate further into the earbuds or damage delicate components. Chemical cleaning methods are harsh and can damage the earbud material or leave residue. Ultrasonic cleaners are expensive and bulky, while vacuum cleaners and compressed air may not reach deep-seated debris.
[0005] Furthermore, conventional cleaning methods often require disassembly, which is difficult and risks damaging the earbuds. They also fail to thoroughly clean hard-to-reach areas such as the speaker mesh and crevices. Furthermore, improper cleaning techniques introduce moisture into the earbuds, which can damage electronic components or promote bacterial growth. These limitations underscore the need for a more efficient, safe, and effective earbud cleaning solution that addresses the unique challenges of these devices.
[0006] US20220226867A1 discloses an earbud cleaning device comprising a brush element, a positioning element, and a drive element. A brush element selectively contacts and removes debris from an earbud, and a positioning element holds the earbud in a desired position relative to the brush element. A drive element is configured to move the brush element relative to the earbud. A corresponding system and method is also disclosed and claimed herein.
[0007] US7182820B2 discloses a method and apparatus for cleaning hearing aids. The drying of hearing aids is facilitated by a novel combination of heating and drying agent in a substantially closed system. Greater efficiency is achieved by minimizing the volume of gas, e.g., air, that requires moisture removal.
[0008] Conventionally, there are many devices capable of cleaning earplugs, but these existing devices fail to automate the process and maintain cleaning efficiency. Furthermore, these devices cannot be adapted to different earplug designs and are also unable to ensure comprehensive cleaning and sterilization of the earplugs.
[0009] To overcome the above-mentioned disadvantages, there is a need in the art to develop a device that enables a more comprehensive cleaning process by adapting the cleaning process to the earplug dimensions with minimal user intervention. Furthermore, the developed device must also be powerful enough to efficiently remove deposits and extend the lifespan of the earplugs. SUBJECT OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The main object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.
[0011] An object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of streamlining the earplug cleaning process by modulating the cleaning process in accordance with the earplug dimensions in order to remove deposits, dirt and blockages from the earplugs and thereby increase the lifespan of the earplugs.
[0012] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of providing sterilization by killing bacteria and germs to prevent ear infections and hearing damage, thereby maintaining the hygiene and cleanliness of the earplugs.
[0013] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of offering different cleaning modes and settings so that the user can select the cleaning intensity and duration.
[0014] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of streamlining the cleaning process with minimal user intervention in order to reduce cleaning time and increase efficiency.
[0015] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device capable of extending the life of earplugs with regular cleaning by preventing damage that may occur due to improper cleaning.
[0016] The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon closer examination of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] The present invention relates to an automated earbud cleaning device capable of providing an efficient, customizable, and automated earbud cleaning experience for a user, prioritizing user convenience, earbud care, and hygiene, thereby improving the sound quality of the earbuds.
[0018] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an automated earbud cleaning device comprises a body to be positioned on a fixed surface and having a touch-sensitive interactive display panel that provides a user-friendly interface for selecting the cleaning sequence of an earbud; a lid integrated into the upper part of the body by means of a motorized hinge joint to enable smooth and precise movement for opening; a pair of cylindrical structures arranged at the base of the body to accommodate the user's earbuds of various sizes; a rotatable, artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed inside the body to capture multiple images of the earbuds from different angles and synchronized with a laser measurement sensor to determine the dimensions of the earbuds;A motorized aperture cover is mounted in the cavities to grip the earplugs to a limited extent. After the earplugs are attached, an IR (infrared) sensor is installed inside the case and activated by the microcontroller to monitor whether the earplug speaker mesh is blocked. A motorized two-axis slider is mounted inside the case to position a multi-part chamber near the earplug mesh.
[0019] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises a pump connected to the chamber and actuated by the microcontroller to dispense a pair of cleaning solutions (a synergistic mixture of isopropyl alcohol and hydrogen peroxide) stored in the chamber onto the mesh of the earplugs; a first motorized gripper installed inside the housing and having a J-shaped hook as an end effector to remove impurities stuck in blocked portions of the earplugs; a second motorized gripper arranged inside the housing and having a rotatable gripper for cleaning the earplugs by scrubbing the picked-up earplugs; a UV lamp (ultraviolet lamp) installed inside the body to illuminate to prevent microbial growth; a rechargeable battery;which is arranged inside the body and charges the earplugs while the earplugs are cleaned and disinfected, an air blower provided inside the body to direct a focused airflow onto the earplugs to remove the cleaning solutions, and a motorized circular sliding unit mounted between the base of the body and the structures to rotate the structures to optimally place the earplugs towards the cleaning agents.
[0020] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations are possible which would fall within the scope of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will be better understood from the following description, the appended claims and the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. shows an isometric view of an automatic earplug cleaning device; and Fig. shows an internal view of the proposed device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0022] The following description contains the preferred best mode for carrying out an embodiment of the present invention. It will be apparent from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiments, but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be considered as illustrative and not restrictive. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is intended to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
[0023] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms “comprising,” “comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with “including,” “with,” and “characterized by”) may be replaced by the respective partially closed terms “consists essentially of,” “consists essentially of,” and the like, or the respective closed terms “consists of,” “consists of,” and the like.
[0024] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” refer to both the singular and the plural, unless explicitly stated that only the singular is meant.
[0025] The present invention relates to an automatic cleaning device for earbuds that enables a more comprehensive cleaning process by adapting the cleaning process to the dimensions of the earbuds with minimal user intervention. Furthermore, the proposed device is powerful enough to efficiently remove deposits and ensure sterilization, thus extending the lifespan of the earbuds.
[0026] With reference to Fig. 1 and Fig.Figure 2 shows an isometric view of an automatic earphone cleaning device, or an internal view of the proposed device, comprising a body 101 arranged with a touch-sensitive interactive display panel 102, a lid 103 arranged on the upper part of the body 101 by means of a motorized hinge 104, a pair of cylindrical structures 201 integrated at the base of the body 101 and each provided with a cavity, a rotatable, artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 202 installed inside the body 101, a motorized iris diaphragm 203 integrated into the cavities, a multi-part chamber 204 arranged inside the body 101 by means of a motorized two-axis slider 205, a first motorized gripper 206 arranged inside the body 101 and integrated with a J-shaped hook 207,a second motorized gripper 208 is installed inside the body 101 and integrated with a rotatable brush 209, a UV (ultraviolet) lamp 210 is installed inside the body 101, a motorized circular sliding unit 211 is integrated between the base of the body 101 and the structures 201, and an air blower 212 is installed inside the body 101.
[0027] The device described here consists of a housing 101 that can be placed on a solid surface, such as a tabletop or countertop. The housing 101 serves as the main structure 201 for the device. Integrated into the housing 101 is an interactive touch display 102, which provides an intuitive and user-friendly interface for selecting and adjusting the cleaning sequence. The display panel 102 is arranged for easy access, allowing the user to effortlessly navigate through the various cleaning options and settings.
[0028] The touch-sensitive interactive display panel 102 mentioned here is typically an LCD (liquid crystal display) screen that presents the output in a visible form. The screen is equipped with touch-sensitive technology that allows the user to interact directly with the display using their fingers. A touch controller IC (integrated circuit) is responsible for processing the analog signals generated when the user inputs information to select a cleaning method for cleaning the user's earbuds. A touch controller is typically connected to the microcontroller via various interfaces, which may include, but are not limited to, PI (serial peripheral interface) or I2C (inter-integrated circuit).
[0029] The intuitive user interface of the display panel 102 ensures seamless interaction and makes it easy for the user to optimize their earplug cleaning experience. The graphic and visualization features of the panel 102 provide a clear and concise overview of the cleaning process, ensuring the user is informed and in control throughout the entire process.
[0030] A lid 103, seamlessly integrated into the upper part of the housing 101 via a motorized hinge 104, enables smooth and precise movement. The lid 103 is transparent so the user can see the cleaning process. A built-in microcontroller controls the unfolding of the lid 103, ensuring effortless opening and closing. When the user initiates the cleaning process, the microcontroller actuates the motorized hinge 104 and gently opens the lid 103 to expose the interior.
[0031] The motorized hinge 104 typically involves the use of an electric motor to control the movement of the hinge and its associated components. The hinge 104 forms the pivot point around which the movement occurs. The motor is the core component responsible for generating the rotational movement. It converts electrical energy into mechanical energy and generates the necessary torque to drive the hinge 104. As the motor rotates, the motorized hinge 104 extends to open or close the lid 103.
[0032] This process exposes a pair of cylindrical structures 201 located at the base of the housing 101. The structures 201 are designed to accommodate the user's earplugs of various sizes, ensuring secure and precise positioning during the cleaning process. Each cylindrical structure 201 has a cavity carefully designed to accommodate an earplug. The recesses are shaped to accommodate various earplug sizes and types, thus ensuring universal compatibility. The cavities feature soft, flexible inserts that prevent scratching or damaging the earplugs. The user simply inserts their earplugs into the recesses.
[0033] After the user places the earplugs, a rotatable, artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 202 is installed inside the housing 101 to capture multiple high-resolution images of the earplugs housed in the cavities from different angles. The imaging unit 202 utilizes artificial intelligence and machine learning protocols to accurately determine the dimensions of the earplugs, including their length, width, and depth. The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 202 is equipped with a camera lens and a processor, with the camera lens capable of capturing a series of images of the earplugs.
[0034] The processor performs a series of image processing operations, including preprocessing, feature extraction, and classification. The image captured by the imaging unit 202 is a real-time image of the earplugs. Simultaneously, the laser measurement sensor is activated and sends a focused, narrow beam toward the earplugs. When the laser beam hits the surface of the earplugs, it is reflected back to the sensor. The receiver of the laser measurement sensor captures the reflected light and operates according to the time-of-flight principle.
[0035] The image processing software of the image processing unit 202 analyzes the captured image to detect the edges, contours, and features of the earbud. The image processing unit 202 combines the dimensional data from the laser measurement sensor with the image analysis results. The combined data is sent to the microcontroller, which calculates the earbud dimensions, including length, width, depth, and orientation.
[0036] Based on this data, the microcontroller actuates a motorized iris 203, which is arranged in cavities, partially closing them to ensure a secure fit to the earplugs. The motorized iris 203 typically consists of a series of thin, overlapping blades or petals arranged in a circular or hexagonal pattern. The microcontroller sends signals to the motor of the motorized iris 203 to partially open it. The motor then rotates or moves the blades to open the iris 203 to the desired position, and as the motorized iris 203 opens, the earplugs are secured.
[0037] After securing the earplugs, an IR (infrared) sensor integrated into the housing 101 and synchronized with the imaging unit 202 is activated by the microcontroller to detect blockages in the earplugs' speaker network. The IR (infrared) sensor is essentially a thermophilic or pyroelectric detector used to detect and measure IR (infrared) radiation. This sensor consists of several thermocouples or sensitive materials that generate a voltage or current when exposed to IR radiation.
[0038] To isolate the desired IR wavelength range, a filter is used to block unwanted ambient radiation and ensure that the IR (infrared) sensor focuses only on the specific range of IR (infrared) radiation emitted by the earbud's speaker mesh. Any blockage on the earbud's surface causes fluctuations in the emitted IR radiation. These fluctuations are detected by the IR (infrared) sensor as changes in the intensity of the IR signal. The output of the IR (infrared) sensor is sent to the microcontroller, which processes the signals to determine the blockage on a speaker mesh.
[0039] Simultaneously, the microcontroller actuates a motorized two-axis slider 205, which precisely positions a multi-part chamber 204 near the earpiece mesh. The motorized two-axis slider 205 consists of two motorized linear actuators consisting of servomotors or servomotors that move the chamber 204 in two perpendicular directions, commonly referred to as the X and Y axes. The microcontroller coordinates and controls the movement of the motorized two-axis slider 205, ensuring precise positioning of the chamber 204 near the earpiece mesh. The microcontroller controls the motor drivers, which convert the microcontroller's digital signal into precise motor movements.
[0040] A pump connected to the multi-compartment chamber 204 is expertly controlled by the microcontroller to sequentially apply a unique pair of cleaning solutions stored in the chamber 204 to the earplug mesh. The pump creates suction, drawing the solution from the chamber 204 through the tubing and pressurizing it to the desired pressure. The pressurized solution is distributed through the tubing and across the earplug mesh.
[0041] A cleaning solution containing a synergistic blend of isopropyl alcohol and hydrogen peroxide to effectively clean and disinfect earplugs. The isopropyl alcohol effectively dissolves and removes wax, oil, and dirt to disinfect and sanitize earplugs, evaporating quickly to minimize residue. The hydrogen peroxide breaks down and oxidizes organic deposits to enhance sanitization and disinfection, and foams to reach even the most intricate earbud crevices.
[0042] To improve cleaning effectiveness, the microcontroller actuates a first motorized gripper 206, positioned inside the housing 101 and configured with a J-shaped hook 207, synchronized with the imaging unit 202, to remove debris stuck in blocked portions of the earbuds. The gripper 206 typically consists of two opposing arms or fingers that mimic the grasping motion of a human hand. These arms are typically made of durable materials such as metal or plastic to ensure strength and flexibility. The design of the gripper 206 includes springs to securely position the hook 207 and remove debris stuck in the blocked portion of the earbuds.
[0043] Electric motors and servo motors are used to control the movement of the gripper 206. These motors provide the necessary power and precision to manipulate and move the hook 207 to remove debris trapped in the blocked portion of the earbuds. The motors are connected to the arms of the gripper 206 by an arrangement of gears and linkages, allowing for controlled positioning of the tip portion of the hook 207 near the blocked portion of the earbuds for cleaning the buds.
[0044] The device includes a second motorized gripper 208 installed inside the housing 101 and integrated with a rotating brush 209. The second motorized gripper 208 is actuated by the microcontroller in synchronization with the imaging unit 202 to generate a scrubbing motion for the housed earbuds to clean the earbuds. The second motorized gripper 208 mentioned here functions similarly to the first motorized gripper 206 for scrubbing the earbuds with the aid of the motorized rotating brush 209.
[0045] The motorized rotating brush 209 is equipped with a variety of bristles to facilitate scrubbing of earplugs. The bristles are typically arranged in rows or clusters across the motorized rotating brush 209. The length and stiffness of the bristles are designed to penetrate deep into dirt and properly scrub the earplugs. Nylon bristles are used for their durability, flexibility, and moisture resistance. The bristles rotate or oscillate along with the motorized rotating brush 209, and this motion causes the bristles to agitate the surface of the earplugs, removing dirt and debris.
[0046] To ensure sterilization and hygiene, a UV (ultraviolet) lamp 210, installed inside the housing 101, is activated by the microcontroller to eliminate bacterial and viral contaminants, thereby disinfecting the earplugs and the surrounding areas to prevent microbial growth. The UV (ultraviolet) lamp 210 emits UV-C light with a wavelength between 200 and 280 nanometers. This specific wavelength is effective in destroying the DNA and RNA of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
[0047] When exposed to UV-C light, these pathogens can no longer multiply or infect, effectively sterilizing surfaces and air. UV-C lamps are widely used in healthcare, laboratories, and water treatment plants. The process is chemical-free, safe for various surfaces, and effective at reducing microbial load, although safety precautions are required to protect skin and eyes from direct exposure to UV light.
[0048] The device incorporates a rechargeable battery located within the housing 101, providing a convenient and independent power source. The battery is strategically connected to a charging slot discreetly located beneath the bezel cover 203. While the earplugs are being cleaned and disinfected, the device simultaneously charges them, ensuring consecutive cleaning and charging cycles, increasing user comfort and reducing downtime.
[0049] The battery supplies power to the electrically powered components used in the device. The battery consists of a pair of electrodes called the cathode and anode. The battery uses a chemical reaction of oxidation / reduction to perform work on the charge and generate a voltage between its anode and cathode, thus generating electrical energy that is used to perform work in the device.
[0050] An air blower 212 is installed inside the housing 101 and is precisely controlled by the microcontroller to direct a focused airflow onto the housed earplugs to effectively remove the cleaning solutions. The air blower 212 consists of a motor-driven fan or impeller that generates a high-speed airflow. The air blower 212 is typically compact and energy-efficient.
[0051] The air blower 212 is positioned so that its airflow is directed toward the earplugs, which is achieved by adjusting the fins or channels to focus the airflow. The microcontroller controls the speed of the air blower 212 and modulates the airflow depending on factors such as moisture content. The microcontroller monitors the drying process, and once the cleaning solutions are dry, the microcontroller automatically shuts off the air blower 212 to save energy.
[0052] A motorized circular slider 211 is integrated between the base of the housing 101 and the earplug holding structures 201. The slider 211 is precisely controlled by the microcontroller to rotate the structures 201 and optimally position the earplugs toward the cleaning agent, ensuring precise alignment for effective cleaning and thorough removal of contaminants. This streamlines the cleaning process and provides a comprehensive and efficient solution for earplug care.
[0053] The 211 Motorized Slide Unit consists of a motor and a track unit with integrated ball bearings, enabling smooth linear motion. As the motor rotates, the rotational motion is converted into linear motion via a pair of belts and linkages. This linear motion ensures stable operation and allows the earplugs to be moved closer to the cleaning agent, reducing cleaning time. ADVANTAGES - Saves time and effort and ensures that the earplugs are thoroughly cleaned without manual intervention. - Elimination of bacteria and germs that can cause infections or odors. - Informs about the cleaning process and ensures precise removal of dirt and optimal application of the cleaning solution. - Extends the life of earplugs by preventing damage from buildup.
[0054] The present invention works best in the following manner: where the body 101, as disclosed in the invention, is positioned on a solid surface, allows the user access to the touch-interactive display panel 102 to select the order of cleaning the earplugs, then the microcontroller actuates the motorized hinge connection 104 for a smooth and precise movement to open the lid 103. After opening the lid 103, the user now has access to the pair of cylindrical structures 201 to house their earplugs, and the cavities allow the user to place their earplugs into the cavities.Furthermore, the rotatable, artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 202 captures multiple images of the earplugs from different angles and in synchronization with the laser measurement sensor to determine the earplug dimensions. The motorized aperture cover 203 partially secures the earplugs. After the earplugs are attached, the IR (infrared) sensor is activated by the microcontroller to monitor for blockages on the earplug speaker mesh. Then, the motorized two-axis slider 205 positions the multi-part chamber 204 near the earplug mesh.
[0055] Following the positioning of the chamber 204, the pump is actuated by the microcontroller to distribute the two cleaning solutions (a synergistic mixture of isopropyl alcohol and hydrogen peroxide) over the mesh of earplugs. The first motorized gripper 206, with the J-shaped hook 207, removes debris stuck in blocked parts of the earplugs. Accordingly, the second motorized gripper 208, with the rotating scrubber, scrubs the picked-up earplugs to clean them. The UV lamp 210 illuminates to prevent microbial growth. The battery charges the earplugs while the earplugs are being cleaned and disinfected. The air blower 212 directs air toward the earplugs to remove the cleaning solutions. The motorized circuit rotates the structures 201 to optimally position the earplugs toward the cleaning agents.
[0056] Although the scope of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not intended to be taken in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternative embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the description of the invention. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION
[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature
[0000] US 20220226867A1
[0006] US 7182820B2
[0007]
Claims
[1] Automated earplug cleaning device comprising: i) a body 101 designed to be positioned on a fixed surface, the body 101 being provided with a touch-interactive display panel 102 accessible by a user to select a cleaning method to be performed to clean the user's earphones; ii) a lid 103 arranged on the upper part of the housing 101 by means of a motorized hinge 104 actuated by a built-in microcontroller to be deployed to open the housing 101, wherein a pair of cylindrical structures 201 are integrated at the base of the housing 101, each provided with a cavity accessible by the user to accommodate the user's earphone; iii) a rotatable, artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 202 installed inside the housing 101 and integrated with a processor to capture and process multiple images of the interior of the housing 101 and to determine the dimensions of the housed earphones, respectively, whereupon the microcontroller actuates a motorized shutter 203 integrated into the cavities to be partially closed in order to obtain a grip on the housed earphones; iv) an IR (infrared) sensor integrated into the housing 101 and synchronized with the imaging unit 202 to determine parts of the blockage on a speaker mesh, based on which the microcontroller evaluates a plan for cleaning the earphones, wherein a multi-part chamber 204 is arranged within the housing 101 by means of a motorized two-axis slider 205 actuated by the microcontroller to move the chamber 204 into the vicinity of the earphone mesh; v) a pump connected to the chamber 204 and actuated by the microcontroller to pump a pair of cleaning solutions stored in the chamber 204 in a sequential manner over the ear bud tissue, wherein a first motorized gripper 206 is arranged within the body 101 and integrated with a J-shaped hook 207 actuated by the microcontroller in synchronism with the imaging unit 202 to remove debris lodged in a blocked portion of the ear buds with a view to cleaning the picked-up ear buds; and vi) a second motorized gripper 208 installed inside the body 101 and integrated with a rotatable brush 209 operated by the microcontroller in synchronism with the imaging unit 202 for scrubbing the picked-up ear buds with a view to performing a thorough cleaning of the ear buds, wherein a UV (ultraviolet) lamp 210 is installed inside the body 101 and operated by the microcontroller to be illuminated for sterilizing the picked-up ear buds in order to properly clean the ear buds. [2] The device according to claim 1, wherein a battery is configured with the housing 101 and connected to a power charging slot formed below the iris diaphragm 203 to charge the earphones while housed in the housing 101. [3] The device of claim 1, wherein a motorized circular slide unit 211 is integrated between the base of the housing 101 and the structures 201, which is actuated by the microcontroller to rotate the structures 201 to position the earphones towards a cleaning device while cleaning is performed on the earphones. [4] The device of claim 1, wherein a laser measurement sensor is integrated into the housing 101 and synchronized with the imaging unit 202 to monitor the dimensions of the accommodated earphones. [5] The device according to claim 1, wherein an air blower 212 is installed inside the housing 101 and is actuated by the microcontroller to blow air towards the housed earphones to dry the residues of the cleaning solutions on the earphones and thus ensure thorough cleaning of the earphones. [6] The device of claim 1, wherein the cleaning solutions contain an isopropyl alcohol and hydrogen peroxide solution.
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Earphone cleaning device
US20220226867A1
Methods and apparatus for cleaning a hearing aid device
US7182820B2