Audio device with proximity detection and independent coupling using hall effect sensors - Patents.com

Abstract

Various implementations include an audio device, such as earbuds or earpieces. In certain cases, the audio device includes a pair of earbuds configured to generate a magnetic field. The audio device also includes a case for docking the pair of earbuds. The case includes a Hall effect sensor for detecting proximity to at least one of the earbuds based on the magnetic field, and a power source for charging the pair of earbuds while docked in the case. Additional implementations include separate couplings for the earbuds or earpieces.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to audio devices and, more specifically, to mechanisms for detecting proximity of audio devices within a storage and / or charging case and for coupling untethered audio devices (e.g., earbuds) to mitigate loss and / or damage. [Background technology]

[0002] Detecting the presence of an audio device within the casing can be useful, for example, to control device functionality and to limit battery usage. Additionally, it may be desirable to prevent loss or damage of untethered audio devices (e.g., earbuds). Summary of the Invention

[0003] All examples and features mentioned below can be combined in any technically possible manner.

[0004] Various aspects include an audio device including a pair of earbuds, each configured to generate a magnetic field, and a case for docking the pair of earbuds, the case including a Hall effect sensor for detecting proximity to at least one of the earbuds based on the magnetic field, and a power source for charging the pair of earbuds while docked within the case.

[0005] In certain additional aspects, an audio device includes a case having at least one magnet and a set of earbuds for docking within the case, each earbud including a Hall effect sensor for indicating proximity to the at least one magnet to indicate that the corresponding earbud is docked within the case.

[0006] In a further aspect, the open-ear audio device includes a first open-ear earpiece housing an electro-acoustic transducer and including a first coupler, and a second open-ear earpiece housing an electro-acoustic transducer and including a second coupler, the first coupler and the second coupler configured to couple the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece while not in use at a user's ear.

[0007] In an additional aspect, an open-ear audio device includes a first open-ear earpiece housing an electro-acoustic transducer and including a first coupler, a second open-ear earpiece housing an electro-acoustic transducer and including a second coupler, and a common connector for coupling with the first coupler and the second coupler while the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece are not in use at a user's ear, wherein the first coupler is integral with the first open-ear earpiece and the second coupler is integral with the second open-ear earpiece.

[0008] In additional particular aspects, the method includes detecting docking and / or removal of the set of earbuds into and / or from the earbud case based on signals received from a Hall Effect sensor in the earbud case or a Hall Effect sensor in the set of earbuds.

[0009] Implementations may include one or any combination of the following features.

[0010] In some cases, each earbud includes an electroacoustic transducer configured to generate a magnetic field, and the Hall effect sensor senses the magnetic field generated by the electroacoustic transducer to detect proximity to one of the earbuds.

[0011] In certain aspects, each earbud includes at least one magnet that generates a magnetic field. In some implementations, the magnet is located within the battery barrel of the earbud.

[0012] In certain cases, the set of earbuds includes a pair of in-ear or open-ear audio devices that are not tethered together.

[0013] In some implementations, the earbuds include open-ear audio devices.

[0014] In certain cases, the open-ear audio device includes an ear cuff.

[0015] In certain aspects, the audio device further includes at least one additional Hall effect sensor for detecting proximity to an additional one of the set of earbuds or for detecting an orientation of at least one of the set of earbuds. In some examples, the Hall effect sensor is oriented to detect when an earbud is seated in a slot in the case. In certain examples, the Hall effect sensor is positioned to sense the presence of one or both earbuds in the case.

[0016] In certain implementations, the Hall effect sensors are configured to detect the magnetic field from each earbud regardless of the power state of the earbud. In some examples, the Hall effect sensors are configured to detect the magnetic field from each earbud even when the earbud battery is depleted beyond a threshold that provides a voltage-based measurement, such as when the battery charge is at or below a few percent.

[0017] In some cases, each earbud further includes an additional Hall effect sensor, and the case further includes at least one magnet, and the additional Hall effect sensor in each earbud is configured to at least one of: indicate proximity to the case based on a detected magnetic field from the at least one magnet, or indicate proximity to another of the earbuds based on detecting a magnetic field generated by the corresponding earbud. In some examples, the indication of proximity to the case can be used to confirm proximity and / or docking of the earbuds, or can be used independently. In additional examples, the indication of proximity to another earbud can trigger a change in operational mode, such as switching to a sleep mode, shutting down, and / or pausing or stopping audio playback, in response to detecting close proximity between the earbuds indicating that the earbuds have been removed from the head.

[0018] In certain aspects, the case is configured to initiate a charging protocol to charge the earbuds in response to the Hall effect sensor detecting proximity to at least one of the earbuds. In certain examples, the case includes a set of slots for docking the earbuds and a controller coupled to the Hall effect sensor and a power source. In additional examples, docking can be orientation specific, e.g., left-handed compared to right-handed.

[0019] In certain implementations, the case further includes additional Hall effect sensors for detecting the magnetic fields generated by each of the pair of earbuds and a power source for charging the pair of earbuds while docked within the case.

[0020] In some cases, each earbud includes an electroacoustic transducer configured to generate a magnetic field, and an additional Hall effect sensor senses the magnetic field generated by the electroacoustic transducer to detect proximity to one of the earbuds.

[0021] In certain aspects, the set of earbuds comprises an open-ear audio device. In some examples, the open-ear audio device comprises an ear cuff.

[0022] In certain cases, the first coupler and the second coupler each include a magnet to couple the first and second open-ear earpieces together. In certain examples, the magnets may be located within the battery barrels of the earpieces to orient the ear cuffs in the same direction, e.g., side-by-side.

[0023] In some implementations, the magnet is detectable by a Hall Effect sensor in the charging case for the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece.

[0024] In certain aspects, the first coupler and the second coupler include complementary connectors for coupling the first and second open-ear earpieces.

[0025] In certain implementations, the complementary connector includes at least one of a snap-fit ​​connector, an interlock connector, a pressure-fit connector, or a magnet.

[0026] In some cases, the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece are not tethered, so that the first coupler and the second coupler provide substantially all of the retention force in coupling the first and second earpieces together.

[0027] In certain aspects, the first coupler and the second coupler hold the first and second earpieces together independent of the charging case or the storage case.

[0028] In some implementations, the audio device further includes a detachable tether configured to connect to at least one of the first open-ear earpiece or the second open-ear earpiece.

[0029] In certain cases, the detachable tether includes a connector for connecting to an external power source or an external data source. In some examples, one end of the tether is connected to a power and / or data input and the other end of the connector is coupled to the ear cuff. In certain examples, the connector includes a USB connector.

[0030] In certain implementations, when a detachable tether is connected to the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece and the first coupler and the second coupler are connected, the open-ear audio device forms a circular piece of jewelry or a key chain.

[0031] In certain cases, the detachable tether includes a backup battery and a connector for at least one of charging an on-board battery in the open-ear earpiece or powering the open-ear earpiece directly.

[0032] In some aspects, the audio device further includes a charging dish for charging an on-board battery in each of the open-ear earpieces when connected.

[0033] In certain cases, the common connector includes a tether.

[0034] In certain aspects, the common connector includes a power connector for charging the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece independently of the charging case.

[0035] In some implementations, the first coupler and the second coupler are complementary to allow direct coupling of the first open-ear earpiece to the second open-ear earpiece.

[0036] In certain aspects, the first coupler and the second coupler include magnets.

[0037] In certain cases, the Hall effect sensors are located in the earbud case and / or in a set of earbuds.

[0038] In some examples, the method further includes initiating charging of the pair of earbuds in response to detecting docking of the pair of earbuds within the earbud case.

[0039] Two or more features described in this disclosure, including features described in this Summary section, may be combined to form implementations not specifically described herein.

[0040] The details of one or more implementations are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages will become apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0041] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of an audio device according to various implementations. [Diagram 2] 1A-1D are perspective views of earbuds in various implementations. [Diagram 3] 1 is a schematic diagram of electronics for an audio device according to various implementations. [Figure 4] 1A-1C are schematic diagrams of electronic devices in an audio device case according to various implementations. [Diagram 5] 1A-1C are perspective views of audio device cases according to various implementations. [Figure 6] 6 shows a partial cutaway view of a portion of the case of FIG. 5. [Figure 7] 1A-1D are perspective views of audio device cases according to various implementations. [Figure 8] 1A-1C are perspective views of a set of audio devices according to various implementations. [Figure 9] 1A-1C are perspective views of a set of audio devices according to various implementations. [Figure 10] 1A-1D are perspective views of a pair of audio devices and a tether according to various implementations. [Figure 11] 1A-1D are perspective views of a tether according to various implementations. [Figure 12] Illustrates an audio device and a tether according to various implementations. [Figure 13] 1 illustrates an audio device in a case according to various implementations.

[0042] It should be noted that the drawings of the various implementations are not necessarily to scale. The drawings are intended to depict only typical aspects of the disclosure and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope of the implementations. In the drawings, like numbering represents like elements between the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0043] The present disclosure is based at least in part on the recognition that Hall effect sensors can be used within an audio device (e.g., earbud) case to detect the proximity of the device (e.g., one or more earbuds). The present disclosure is further based at least in part on the recognition that Hall effect sensors can be used within one or more earbuds of a set to indicate docking of the earbuds within the case and / or to indicate proximity between the earbuds. The present disclosure is further based at least in part on the recognition that open-ear audio devices having separate earpieces (e.g., ear cuffs) can include an integrated coupler for coupling the earpieces together or to a common connector such as a tether or jewelry.

[0044] Commonly labeled components in the figures are considered to be substantially equivalent components for illustrative purposes, and redundant descriptions of those components are omitted for clarity. Numerical ranges and values ​​described according to various implementations are merely examples of such ranges and values ​​and are not intended to limit those implementations. In some cases, the term "approximately" is used to modify a value, and in these cases, these values ​​can refer to a margin of error, such as measurement error, which may range up to 1 to 5 percent.

[0045] The aspects and implementations disclosed herein may be applicable to a wide variety of wearable audio devices in various form factors, such as head-worn devices (e.g., headsets, headphones, earphones, glasses, helmets, hats, visors), neck-worn speakers, shoulder-worn speakers, body-worn speakers (e.g., watches). Some specific aspects disclosed may be applicable to personal (wearable) audio devices, such as in-ear or on-ear audio devices, collectively referred to herein as earbuds. Additional specific aspects disclosed may be applicable to wearable audio devices, such as tethered or untethered open-ear headphones, referred to as ear cuffs. While specific implementations of audio devices that primarily serve the purpose of acoustically outputting audio have been presented in some detail, it should be noted that the presentation of such specific implementations is intended to facilitate understanding through the provision of examples and should not be considered as limiting either the scope of the disclosure or the applicability of the claims.

[0046] The wearable audio devices disclosed herein may include additional features and capabilities not expressly described. These wearable audio devices may include additional hardware components such as one or more cameras, position tracking devices, microphones, and may be capable of voice recognition, visual recognition, and other smart device functions. The descriptions of wearable audio devices contained herein are not intended to exclude these additional capabilities in such devices.

[0047] In a particular implementation, Figure 1 illustrates an example of a system and device that can incorporate the teachings of various implementations. This example is not intended to be limiting.

[0048] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary audio system 10. In this example, audio system 10 includes an audio headset 20 having a pair of audio devices 30, which in this particular implementation are two separate earbuds, such as open-ear headphones 30A, 30B, as described in U.S. Patent No. 11,140,469 ("Open-Ear Headphone"), which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Although audio devices (also referred to herein as ear cuffs or headphones) 30 are shown in a "true" wireless configuration (i.e., the earbuds are not tethered), audio headset 20 can also include a tethered wireless configuration (whereby the earbuds are connected via wires while being wirelessly connected to a playback device) or a wired configuration (whereby at least one of the earbuds has a wired connection to a playback device).

[0049] The devices 30A, 30B (e.g., open-ear headphones or ear cuffs) include an acoustic module configured to be at least partially positioned within the concha of a user's outer ear. The devices 30A, 30B are configured such that when the acoustic module is positioned within the concha of the ear, the body passes over at least one of the antihelix, the helix, and the earlobe of the ear. In one example, the body is generally "L" shaped, and the acoustic module and the body together (i.e., the entire open-ear headphones) are generally "C" shaped. In one example, the center of gravity of the open-ear headphones is between the acoustic module and the second portion of the body. The center of gravity may be located in or near a portion of the outer ear (e.g., the helix or the earlobe) that is between the acoustic module and the second portion of the body. As shown in FIG. 1, the devices 30A, 30B include an acoustic module 35 that is sized, shaped, and positioned relative to the open-ear headphone body 40 such that the acoustic module 35 is configured to be positioned in the concha of the user's outer ear. Generally, the human outer ear (also known as the auricle or pinna) includes the concha, which is below (or behind) the tragus and immediately adjacent the entrance to the ear canal. The concha is divided by the crus helix into an inferior portion, called the cavity of the concha, and an upper portion, called the navicularis. The cavity of the concha is a generally bowl-shaped feature immediately adjacent to the ear canal. The cavity of the concha typically includes a depression bounded by the antitragus, which is the inferior part of the antihelix, and / or by the lobe. The lobe (i.e., earlobe), which is at the inferior end of the helix, typically lies immediately below the antitragus. The body 40 includes a first portion 60 coupled to the acoustic module 35 and configured to pass over the outside of the ear (e.g., over at least one of the antihelix and helix of the outer ear and the lobe), and a second portion 80 configured to lie on the back of the outer ear. Body 40 is generally "L" shaped from the side (as shown in FIG. 1 ), with portion 60 extending generally perpendicular to acoustic module 35 and connecting portion 75 extending generally perpendicular to portion 60 to connect to distal portion 80. In one example, portion 80 may be generally cylindrical such that it is configured to hold a generally cylindrical battery power source (e.g., a rechargeable battery).Overall, device 30 (e.g., open-ear headphones) is generally "C" shaped, as shown in Figure 1. In one example, acoustic module 35 and body 40 are part of a single molded plastic housing constructed and arranged to contain the transducers, battery, and any electronics required for operation of the headphones.

[0050] The body 40 can include a casing formed of one or more plastic or composite materials. In this exemplary configuration, the body 40 can include an external casing for housing the electronics 70, which can include interface components. As described herein according to various implementations, the body 40 (e.g., including the external casing) can include at least one magnet (e.g., within the casing). In certain implementations, as described herein, the magnet can be positioned to enable magnetic coupling of the audio devices 30A, 30B and / or proximity-based detection by another device (e.g., a storage and / or charging case, or another audio device). As also described herein according to various implementations, the body 40 can include at least one Hall effect sensor, which can assist, for example, in proximity detection and related functions.

[0051] In some cases, a separate or overlapping set of electronics 70 is included in a portion of the audio devices 30, e.g., in each of the respective audio devices 30. However, certain components described herein may exist in a single form. In some examples, the system 10 includes an additional device 55, which in this example is a docking station or case (e.g., a charging case) for the audio devices (open-ear headphones 30). In various implementations, the case 55 is configured to house the devices 30A, 30B (e.g., for storage) and in some cases may include a power source or a connection to a power source for charging the headphones 30A, 30B. The case 55 may include electronics 170, some of which may be similar to the electronics 70 of the open-ear headphones 30A, 30B. Receptacles (e.g., slots, seats, or other openings) 25 are shown in phantom within the case 55 for holding the headphones 30A, 30B. The receptacles 25 may each be sized to receive a headphone 30A, 30B. As described herein, the receptacle 25 may be sized to receive the headphones 30A, 30B in a particular orientation (eg, in only one direction).

[0052] 2 shows a cutaway view of a portion 80 of device 30, for example illustrating a battery barrel 200, including a printed circuit board (PCB) 210 coupled with a set of battery cells 220 and one or more magnets 230. In this example, multiple magnets 230 are disposed on an exterior surface of the PCB 210. In certain implementations, the magnets 230 are located in a separate portion of the device 30, for example within the body 40 or proximate to the acoustic module 35. As described herein, in optional implementations, the device 30 can include a Hall effect sensor 310, for example to assist with proximity detection functions.

[0053] 3, exemplary electronics 70 of audio device 30 are depicted in schematic form. Additionally, FIG. 3 illustrates magnet 230, which may be located adjacent to the electronics compartment or may be included with one or more portions of electronics 70 within audio device 30.

[0054] It is understood that one or more of the components in the electronic device 70 may be implemented as hardware and / or software, and that such components may be connected by any conventional means (e.g., wired and / or wireless connections). It is further understood that any component described as connected or coupled to another component in a device or other system disclosed according to an implementation may communicate using any conventional wired connection and / or additional communication protocols. In some cases, the communication protocol may include a communication protocol such as a Wi-Fi protocol using a wireless local area network (LAN), IEEE 802.11b / g, a cellular network-based protocol (e.g., a third, fourth, or fifth generation (3G, 4G, 5G) cellular network), or one of a number of internet-of-things (IoT) protocols such as Bluetooth, BLE Bluetooth, ZigBee (mesh LAN), Z-wave (sub-GHz mesh network), 6LoWPAN (lightweight IP protocol), LTE protocol, RFID, ultrasonic audio protocol, and the like. In various particular implementations, the separately housed components within the system 10 disclosed herein are configured to communicate using one or more conventional wireless transceivers.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 3, the electronics 70 included in each device 30 can include at least one Hall effect sensor 310 and a controller 320 coupled to the Hall effect sensor 310. In certain optional implementations (represented by phantom lines), the electronics 70 can further include an inertial measurement unit (IMU) 330 for detecting movement of the device 30 (e.g., through one or more accelerometers, gyroscopes, and / or magnetometers) to enable certain control functions. In certain optional cases, the electronics 70 can also include one or more communication devices 340 for transmitting communication signals to other devices 30, pairing the device 30, connecting with an audio gateway, etc. In some optional examples, the electronics 70 can also include at least one transducer 350 for providing audio output, such as in a wearable audio device. For example, the headphones 30 can include a transducer 350 for providing audio output. One or more components within electronic device 70 may be coupled to a controller 320, which is configured to perform control functions according to the various implementations described herein.

[0056] In certain cases, the Hall effect sensor 310 is configured to detect proximity to a separate device, such as at least one of a set of magnets 230 in the headphones 30 and / or case 55. Additionally, as described herein according to various implementations, the Hall effect sensor 310 can be configured to detect proximity to any device that generates a magnetic field in the headphones 30 and / or case 55. For example, the Hall effect sensor 310 can be used to detect proximity to a device based on a magnetic field generated by one of the electroacoustic transducers 350. Specifically, the Hall effect sensor 310 is configured to detect magnetic flux from a nearby magnet, such as the magnet 230 in the headphones 30 and / or case 55. In additional cases, the Hall effect sensor 310 is configured to detect magnetic flux from a nearby transducer 350 in the headphones 30.

[0057] In additional optional implementations, the detection of proximity can be assisted by an additional short-range wireless transmission system, for example in communication device 340. In these cases, the short-range wireless transmission system can include a near-field communication (NFC) system and / or a Bluetooth communication system. These wireless transmission systems can be used to detect or confirm the proximity of devices, for example using signal strength as a measure of physical proximity.

[0058] Returning to FIG. 3 , in various implementations, the controller 320 of the audio device 30 can include a processor (e.g., including a logic engine) to execute instructions for detecting proximity between the audio devices 30 and / or between the audio devices 30 and corresponding cases 55 and for controlling device functions. In some cases, a memory is coupled to the processor for storing the instructions. In other implementations, the processor can otherwise access the instructions, for example, from a remote storage system, such as a server connected to one or more of the devices 30 and / or cases 55. The instructions, when executed by the processor of the controller 320, cause the processor to detect proximity between the devices 30 and / or to the case 55 and take a predetermined action in accordance with the detection. In some cases, the instructions are part of an application, such as a device detection application, which can be accessed via a server or stored locally, for example, in the controller 320, in memory or in another storage system within the device. The memory of the device can include, for example, flash memory and / or non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM). In some implementations, the instructions (e.g., software such as a device detection application) are stored on an information carrier. The instructions, when executed by one or more processing devices, perform one or more processes, such as those described elsewhere herein. The instructions may also be stored by one or more storage devices, such as one or more (e.g., non-transitory) computer-readable or machine-readable media (e.g., memory or memory on a processor). As described herein, a memory may include the instructions, or a processor may otherwise access the instructions for detecting the proximity of a device and performing a predetermined action according to various specific implementations.It will be understood that portions of the memory (e.g., instructions) may also be stored in remote or distributed locations and fetched or otherwise obtained by a processor (e.g., via any of the communications protocols described herein) for execution.

[0059] The IMU 330 may include a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) device combining a multi-axis accelerometer, gyroscope, and / or magnetometer. It is understood that additional or alternative sensors may perform the functions of the IMU 330, such as an optical-based tracking system, an accelerometer, a magnetometer, a gyroscope, or a radar, to detect movement as described herein. The IMU 330 may be configured to detect changes in the physical location / orientation of the device and provide updated sensor data to the controller 320 to indicate the change in location / orientation of the device (e.g., audio device 30). However, it is understood that the electronics 70 may also include one or more optical or visual detection systems located on the audio device 30 and / or the case 55, or another connected device configured to detect the orientation of the audio device and / or the case. The communication device 340 may include one or more wireless transceivers configured to communicate via any of the communication protocols described herein. As described herein, in audio device 30, transducer 350 may include at least one electroacoustic transducer for generating an acoustic output, for example, into or near the user's ear in the case of a wearable audio device, or into the environment in one or more projection directions in the case of a speaker system.

[0060] Electronic device 70 may also include a power source 360, possibly including an on-board battery. For example, power source 360 ​​in audio device 30 may include a battery, such as a rechargeable battery.

[0061] Additional components included within electronics 70, but not necessarily depicted, may include signal amplification and other digital signal processing (DSP) hardware and / or software, active noise reduction (ANR) and / or controllable noise cancelling (CNC) systems, input / output (I / O) devices, displays and / or user interfaces (UI), etc. It will be understood that these components, or functional equivalents of these components, may be connected to or form part of controller 320.

[0062] 4 illustrates electronics 170 of case 55 according to various implementations. In certain cases, case 55 can include electronics 170 and additional components (e.g., magnets 230) similar to those described with respect to electronics 70 in headphones 30. For example, electronics 170 in case 55 can include Hall effect sensors 410, controller 420, IMU 430, communication device 440, and power source 460. In certain cases, case 55 includes one or more magnets 230. As described herein, Hall effect sensors 410 and / or magnets 230 of case 55, when coupled with controller 420, can assist in proximity detection functions described herein.

[0063] In certain implementations, the power supply 460 of the case 55 includes a rechargeable battery and / or a power connector for coupling to an external power source, for example, to charge an on-board battery and / or to charge the audio devices 30 docked within the case 55. In some cases, the power supply 460 may be coupled to the controller 320 to charge one of the audio devices 30, while in other cases, the power supply 460 may be directly coupled to one or more of the connectors.

[0064] In various implementations, controller 320 of one or more audio devices (e.g., audio device 30) and / or controller 420 of case 55 are configured to perform device detection and control functions, the individual functions of which are illustrated in the following sections.

[0065] Hall effect sensor in the case

[0066] As described herein, various implementations of the case 55 can include a Hall effect sensor (e.g., the Hall effect sensor 410). In a particular example, a partially transparent perspective view of the case 55 housing the left headphone 30A and the right headphone 30B is shown in FIG. 5. As illustrated, a pair of Hall effect sensors 410 are located in the case 55 proximate a receptacle (e.g., the slot 500) for detecting the proximity of at least one of the headphones, e.g., the ear cuff earbud 30. In this particular example, the headphones 30A, 30B are configured to seat in the slot 500 and are detectable by the Hall effect sensor 310 while in the slot 500. In this example, the case 55 includes a base 510, illustrated in a closed position, and a top 520. It is understood that the top 520 can pivot, rotate, slide, etc., relative to the base 510. In certain cases, a portion of the ear cuff 30 extends between the base 510 and the top 520 such that the base 510 and the top 520 collectively define the slot 500 that receives the ear cuff 30 while the slot 500 is seated. FIG. 6 illustrates an enlarged cutaway perspective view of a Hall effect sensor 310 in the headphones 30 (e.g., an ear cuff) proximate to a circuit board 210 (e.g., a printed circuit board). In this view, the acoustic module 35 is illustrated without a transducer, and the battery barrel 80 is shown without internal electronics. In various implementations, the Hall effect sensor 310 is positioned to detect the presence (i.e., proximity) of one or more magnets in another headphone 30 and / or a magnet in the case 55. Additionally, the Hall effect sensor 310 can be positioned to detect proximity to a transducer in another headphone 30.

[0067] In certain additional implementations (optionally represented in phantom), the Hall effect sensor 410 can be positioned between the slots 500 and configured to detect the presence of both headphones 30 in the slot 500. For example, the Hall effect sensor 410 can be positioned between the headphones 30 to sense one or both headphones 30 present in the slot 500 in the case 55. In certain examples, the Hall effect sensor 410 (illustrated in phantom) positioned between the slots 500 can be the only Hall effect sensor for detecting the presence of both headphones 30 in the slot 500.

[0068] In some cases, a given Hall effect sensor 410 is positioned to sense the presence and orientation of the headphones 30, e.g., such that the Hall effect sensor 410 does not indicate that the headphones 30 are docked in the slot 500 unless its orientation is aligned with the slot 500. For example, the slot 500 can be shaped to complement the shape of the headphones 30 so that the headphones 30 can only have one desired orientation in the slot 500. In certain cases, if the headphones 30 are left-specific and right-specific earbuds, the given slot 500 will only accommodate one type of earbud (e.g., left or right). In such cases, the Hall effect sensor 410 is positioned within the case 55 to detect the presence of a given headphone 30 only when the headphone 30 is docked in the corresponding slot 500 in a desired orientation. The desired orientation can be based on a physical contact location for charging the headphones 30 in proximity to an inductive or capacitive charging mechanism and / or design features that minimize the space required to store the headphones 30 within the case 55. In certain implementations, the Hall effect sensor 410 is located adjacent to a portion of the slot 500 that is sized to accommodate a portion of the headphones 30 where the magnetic flux is strongest, for example, adjacent the battery barrel 200 and / or adjacent the acoustic module 35 that houses the transducer 350.

[0069] Returning to FIG. 5, in this example, a pair of Hall effect sensors 410 are positioned adjacent to the headphones 30 such that they are interposed between the two Hall effect sensors 410 when the headphones 30 are seated in the slot 500. As described according to various implementations, the Hall effect sensors 410 can sense a magnetic field generated by the headphones 30, for example, to determine that the headphones 30 are docked in the slot 500, and in some cases, oriented in the slot 500 as desired. In other words, the Hall effect sensors 410 determine that the headphones 30 are fully seated in the slot 500. In certain cases, the Hall effect sensors 410 sense a magnetic flux generated by a transducer 350 in the headphones 30 to detect proximity to the headphones 30. For example, the Hall effect sensors 410 can be positioned in the case 55 such that an acoustic module housing the transducer 350 is adjacent to the Hall effect sensors 410 when fully seated. In this case, the Hall effect sensor 410 is sized and positioned to detect magnetic flux from the transducer 350 when the headphones 30 are fully seated within the slot 500. It will be appreciated that in certain cases, the Hall effect sensor 410 can be configured to detect magnetic flux from one or more components within the headphones 30, such as the transducer 350, the power source 360 ​​(e.g., a battery), and / or the on-board magnet 230.

[0070] In certain cases, the Hall effect sensor 410 is configured to detect the magnetic field from each headphone 30 regardless of the power state of the headphone 30. That is, the Hall effect sensor 410 of each slot 500 is positioned to detect the presence of the headphone 30 through its magnetic flux even when the power source 360 ​​(e.g., battery) of the headphone 30 is depleted beyond a threshold sufficient to provide a voltage-based measurement. In other words, the Hall effect sensor 410 of each slot is positioned to detect the magnetic flux from the headphone 30 when the battery charge is at or below a few percent. In some such cases, the Hall effect sensor 410 can detect the presence of the headphone 30 through the magnetic flux of the transducer 350.

[0071] In some implementations, the case 55 is configured to initiate a charging protocol to charge the headphones 30 in response to the Hall effect sensors 410 detecting proximity to the headphones 30, e.g., indicating that the headphones 30 are fully seated in the slots 500 in the case 55. In certain cases, the controller 420 (FIG. 4) of the case 55 is configured to initiate a charging protocol in response to receiving a signal from one or both Hall effect sensors 410 indicating the presence of the headphones 30 in the slots 500 in the case 55. In some cases, as described herein, the Hall effect sensors 410 are positioned to sense when the headphones 30 are fully seated in the slots 500. For example, the Hall effect sensor 410 for a given headphone 30 will not detect its presence unless the headphone 30 is fully seated in the corresponding slot 500. In such cases, the controller 420 will only take a predetermined action in response to receiving an indication from the Hall effect sensors 410 that both headphones 30 are docked in the slots 500.

[0072] 3 and 4 as an optional implementation, one or more of the headphones 30 can include a Hall effect sensor 310 and the case 55 can include one or more magnets 230. In one example, the additional Hall effect sensor 310 of the headphones 30 can be configured to a) indicate proximity to the case 55 based on a detected magnetic field from the magnet 230 on the case 55, or b) indicate proximity to the other headphone 30 of the pair based on detecting a magnetic field generated by the other headphone 30.

[0073] In some such cases, for example, an additional Hall effect sensor 310 in the headphones 30 can be used to confirm the proximity of the headphones 30 to the slot 500 in the case 55 as a secondary mechanism for detecting docking into the case 55 and / or as a confirmation mechanism for detecting docking into the case 55. In such implementations, the controller 320 in one or both headphones 30 can be configured to communicate with the controller 420 in the case 55 to confirm the detected proximity / docking of the headphones 30 in the case 55. In other cases, the Hall effect sensor 310 in the headphones 30 can be used independently to detect the proximity between the headphones 30 and the case 55 and take a predetermined action, such as, for example, to initiate charging of the headphones 30, enter a sleep and / or shutdown mode, pause or stop audio playback, etc.

[0074] In additional implementations, if the Hall effect sensor 310 in one or both headphones 30 is configured to detect proximity to the other headphone 30 of the pair via the on-board Hall effect sensor 310, the Hall effect sensor 310 can be configured to detect the presence of a battery in the other headphone 30, a transducer 350 in the other headphone 30, and / or a magnet 230 in the other headphone 30. In such cases, the controller 320 in one or both headphones 30 is configured to take a predefined action in response to detecting close proximity between the headphones 30, for example, the headphones 30 touching each other or within close proximity range of each other (e.g., within a few centimeters). In certain implementations, detecting close proximity between the headphones 30 causes the controller 320 to trigger a sleep mode of the headphones 30, shut down the headphones 30, and / or pause or stop audio playback on the headphones 30.

[0075] Hall effect sensors in both ear cuffs

[0076] As described herein, in certain implementations, both headphones 30 in the pair include a Hall effect sensor 310. Using the exemplary depictions of Figures 3 and 4, each headphone 30 in the pair has a Hall effect sensor 310. In such a case, the Hall effect sensor 310 in each headphone 30 can be configured to indicate proximity to a magnet 230 in the case 55 to detect docking into the case 55, for example into the slot 500. In such a case, the Hall effect sensor 310 in the headphone 30 detects docking (or seating) into the slot 500 via proximity to the magnet 230. Similar to the Hall effect sensor 310 depicted in Figures 5 and 6, Figure 7 illustrates a magnet 230 in the case 155 positioned to be detectable by the Hall effect sensor 310 in the headphone 30 when the headphone 30 is fully seated in the case 155. In certain cases, the headphone 30 is interposed between two magnets 230 in the case 155 when fully seated. In additional or alternative cases (shown in phantom), the magnet 230 is positioned between the headphones 30 when docked in a slot 500 in the case 155. In some such cases, the case 155 may also include a Hall effect sensor 310 for the headphones 30 to detect magnetic fields generated by, for example, an earbud magnet, an earbud transducer, and / or an earbud battery. In some of these implementations, the Hall effect sensor 310 in the case 155 senses a magnetic field generated by a transducer 350 mounted on the headphones 30 to detect proximity to the headphones 30.

[0077] self-join

[0078] In certain implementations, for example, where the earbuds each include an open-ear earpiece, such as within an ear cuff 30, each earpiece can include a coupler for mating with a corresponding coupler on the other earpiece while not in use at the user's ear.

[0079] For example, as depicted in FIG. 3 as a single earpiece and in FIG. 8 as a pair of earpieces, a first earpiece (e.g., ear cuff) 30A includes a first coupler including a first magnet 230 (or a pair of magnets), and a second earpiece (e.g., ear cuff) 30B includes a second coupler including a second magnet 230 (or a pair of magnets, illustrated in phantom lines as they are inside the battery barrel 200). In these implementations, the couplers (i.e., magnets) are configured to couple the first earpiece 30A and the second earpiece 30B while not in the user's ear. In the exemplary depiction of FIG. 9, two earpieces (e.g., ear cuff-style earbuds) 30 are depicted side-by-side. In these cases, the magnets 230 of the battery barrel 200 align the earpieces 30, e.g., in a common orientation. The magnets 230 in the battery barrel 200 of each earpiece 30 can have opposite polarity, for example, to align a section of the earpiece 30 with the same section of the other earbud of the pair (e.g., barrel 200 vs. barrel 200, acoustic module 35 vs. acoustic module 35). As described herein, the magnets 230 are detectable by a Hall effect sensor (e.g., Hall effect sensor 410) in the case 55 of the earpiece 30, for example, to take a predetermined action in response to detecting docking of the earpiece 30 in the case 55.

[0080] 9 illustrates an additional implementation of the audio device 600 in which a pair of earpieces 610A and 610B include corresponding couplers 620A, 620B for coupling the earpieces 610A, 610B when not in use within a user's ear. For example, the couplers 620A, 620B can include complementary connectors (e.g., contours) 630 for interlocking the two earpieces 610 when not in a user's ear. In certain cases, each complementary connector 630 at least partially surrounds a space 640 that receives a portion of the complementary connector 630 in the other earpiece 610. In addition to the connectors 630, each earpiece 610A can include a magnet for coupling with the other earpiece 610B, and in some cases for enabling detection by a Hall effect sensor in the earpiece's case. In some examples, the earpieces 610A, 610B are untethered such that the first coupler 620A and the second coupler 620B provide substantially all of the retention force when coupling the earpieces 610A, 610B.

[0081] 10 illustrates an additional implementation of an audio device 700 in which a pair of earpieces 710A and 710B include corresponding couplers 720A, 720B for coupling the earpieces 710A, 710B when not in use within a user's ear. For example, the couplers 720A, 720B can include complementary connectors (e.g., contours) 730 for interlocking the two earpieces 710 when not in a user's ear. In certain cases, each complementary connector 730 is defined by an arm 740 and an acoustic module 750 coupled with the arm 740, e.g., the acoustic module 750 is angled relative to the arm 740. In certain implementations, the earpieces 710 can be selectively coupled to one or more detachable tethers 760, which can connect to one another via a common connector 770 (e.g., including a battery and / or a communication module). In either case, coupler 720 allows earpieces 710, with or without common connector 770, to be coupled while not in use.

[0082] In certain cases, the complementary connectors (e.g., complementary connectors 630, 730) include snap-fit ​​connectors, interlock connectors, pressure-fit connectors, or one or more magnets. In certain cases, magnets are located on one or both earpieces 610, 710 and are configured to connect the earpieces when they come within close proximity of each other. In other cases, snap-fit, interlock, or pressure-fit (e.g., press-fit) connectors can be used to press the earpieces 610, 710 together. The connectors can hold the earpieces as a mated pair until sufficient force is applied to separate the earpieces.

[0083] As described with respect to FIG. 8, the coupler (e.g., magnet 230) can hold the corresponding earpieces 30 together independent of a charging case or storage case. Similarly, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the coupler 620, 720 holds the corresponding earpieces 610, 710 together independent of a charging case or storage case. That is, the magnet 230 and / or coupler 620, 720 can enable the earpieces 30, 610, and 710 to remain coupled together without the need for a charging and / or storage case. In various implementations, the coupler (e.g., magnet 230, coupler 620, 720) is integral with the earpieces. In these cases, the earpieces can be coupled together to make it easier to store and / or transport the earpieces without losing or misplacing them.

[0084] In certain cases, one or more earpieces are configured to connect with a detachable tether, such as tether 760 of FIG. 10. In some cases, tether 760 includes a connector for connecting to an external power source and / or an external data source. For example, the connector can include a power connector and / or a USB connector. In various implementations, the power connector allows the earpiece 710 to be charged independently of the charging case. That is, the earpiece 710 can be charged via the power connector of the tether 760 without requiring docking into a case, such as case 55 (FIGS. 5-7). In certain implementations, the tether 760 connects to both earpieces 710. In other implementations, the tether 760 can connect to one of the earpieces 710 and then to the other earpiece 710 by a separate connector. 10, a detachable tether 760 is connected to each of the earpieces 710 such that when the couplers 720 are connected, the audio device 700 forms a circular wearable device, such as a circular piece of jewelry or a keychain. In some cases, the detachable tether 760 includes a spare battery and a connector for charging an on-board battery in the earpieces 710 and / or for powering the earpieces 710 directly.

[0085] 11 shows an implementation of a detachable tether 800 that includes a wearable connector (e.g., a bracelet and / or necklace) 810 and a coupler 820 for connecting with an earpiece. In some cases, the coupler 820 includes a metal configured to attract a magnet, such as the magnet 230 in the earpiece 30 and / or other earpieces described herein. In certain cases, the tether 800 can include a connector (e.g., a cable) for connecting to an external power source (e.g., for charging) and / or to an external data source (e.g., for software updates, data transmission, etc.).

[0086] 12 and 13 illustrate another implementation of an audio device 900 that includes earpieces 910 (FIG. 12) that are detachable from a common carrier 920 and can be stored and / or charged within a case 55 (FIG. 13). In these particular cases, the earpieces 910 include corresponding couplers 930 for connecting with couplers 940 of the common carrier 920. In certain cases, the couplers 930 of the earpieces 910 are also complementary to allow the earpieces 910 to be coupled to one another. In certain examples, the common carrier 920 can form a circular wearable device, such as jewelry or a key chain for a user to carry. The common carrier 920 can also include a battery and / or a connector to an external power and / or data source, for example, a USB connector.

[0087] In certain additional cases, a charging dish is provided to charge the on-board battery of one of the open-ear earpieces (e.g., 30) when they are connected, i.e., when the open-ear earpieces are connected together, their batteries can be charged wirelessly, e.g., via inductive charging, on a non-charging dish.

[0088] In some implementations, the method of detecting docking and / or removal of the earbuds to the earbud case is based on a signal received from a Hall effect sensor in the case or in the earbuds. In particular cases, the method includes detecting docking and / or removal of the earbuds based on a signal from a Hall effect sensor in the case or based on a signal from a Hall effect sensor in the earbuds. In particular implementations, the method also includes initiating charging of the pair of earbuds in response to detecting docking of the pair of earbuds to the earbud case.

[0089] Additional or alternative techniques for detecting the presence of an earbud or ear cuff in a case are described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16 / 905,666 (filed June 18, 2020), which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0090] In either case, the earbuds and cases as shown and described according to various implementations can enable efficient detection of a docking event, for example, to facilitate charging and / or power saving actions. Additionally, the earbuds as shown and described herein can enable direct coupling, reducing loss and / or misplacement. Additionally, the carriers and tethers as shown and described according to various implementations can enable a user to efficiently store and / or charge the earbuds, as well as reduce loss and / or misplacement. Additional aspects of the earbuds, carriers, and tethers serve as stylish mechanisms for carrying an audio device.

[0091] In various implementations, components described as being "coupled" to one another can be joined along one or more interfaces. In some implementations, these interfaces can include joints between separate components, while in other cases, these interfaces can include rigidly and / or integrally formed interconnects. That is, in some cases, components that are "coupled" to one another can be formed simultaneously to define a single continuous member. However, in other implementations, these coupled components can be formed as separate members and then joined by known processes (e.g., soldering, fastening, ultrasonic welding, bonding). In various implementations, electronic components described as being "coupled" to one another can be linked via conventional wired and / or wireless means such that the electronic components can communicate data to one another. Additionally, subcomponents within a given component can be considered to be linked via conventional pathways, but are not necessarily illustrated.

[0092] Other embodiments not specifically described herein are also within the scope of the following claims. Elements of different implementations described herein may be combined to form other embodiments not specifically described above. Elements may be removed from the structures described herein without adversely affecting the operation of the structures described herein. Furthermore, various separate elements may be combined into one or more individual elements to perform the functions described herein. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 10. Audio System 20 Audio Headset 25 Receptacle 30, 30A, 30B Audio Devices (Open-ear Headphones) 35 Acoustic Module 40 Main unit 55 cases 60 First Part 70 Electronic equipment 75 Connection 80 Second Part 155 cases 170 Electronic equipment 200 Battery Barrels 210 Printed Circuit Board (PCB) 220 Battery Cell 230 Magnet 310 Hall Effect Sensor 320 Controller 330 Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) 340 Communication Devices 350 Transducer 360 power supply 410 Hall Effect Sensor 420 Controller 430 IMU 440 Communication Devices 460 power supply 500 Slots 510 base 520 Top 600 Audio Devices 610A, 610B Earpieces 620A, 620B Coupler 630 Complementary Connector 640 space 700 Audio Devices 710A, 710B Earpieces 720A, 720B Coupler 730 Complementary Connector 740 Arm 750 Acoustic Module 760 Detachable Tether 770 Common Connector 800 Detachable Tether 810 Wearable Connector 820 Coupler 900 Audio Devices 910 Earpiece 920 Common Carrier 930 Coupler 940 Coupler

Claims

1. 1. An audio device comprising: a pair of earbuds, each configured to generate a magnetic field; and a case for docking the pair of earbuds, the case comprising: a Hall effect sensor for detecting proximity to at least one of the earbuds based on the magnetic field; a power source for charging the set of earbuds while docked in the case.

2. 2. The audio device of claim 1, wherein each earbud comprises an electroacoustic transducer configured to generate the magnetic field, and the Hall effect sensor senses the magnetic field generated by the electroacoustic transducer to detect the proximity to one of the earbuds.

3. The audio device of claim 1 , wherein each earbud comprises at least one magnet that generates the magnetic field.

4. The audio device of claim 1 , wherein the set of earbuds comprises a pair of untethered in-ear or open-ear audio devices.

5. The audio device of claim 4 , wherein the earbud comprises the open-ear audio device.

6. The audio device of claim 5 , wherein the open-ear audio device comprises an ear cuff.

7. 10. The audio device of claim 1, further comprising at least one additional Hall effect sensor for detecting proximity to an additional one of the set of earbuds or for detecting an orientation of at least one of the set of earbuds.

8. 10. The audio device of claim 1, wherein the Hall effect sensor is configured to detect the magnetic field from each earbud regardless of a power state of the earbud.

9. Each earbud further comprises an additional Hall effect sensor, the case further comprises at least one magnet, and the additional Hall effect sensor in each earbud further comprises: indicating proximity to the case based on a detected magnetic field from the at least one magnet; or and indicating proximity to another of the earbuds based on detecting the magnetic field generated by a corresponding earbud.

10. 10. The audio device of claim 1, wherein the case is configured to initiate a charging protocol to charge the earbuds in response to the Hall effect sensor detecting proximity to at least one of the earbuds.

11. 1. An audio device comprising: a case having at least one magnet; a pair of earbuds for docking within the case, each earbud comprising a Hall effect sensor for indicating proximity to the at least one magnet to indicate that the corresponding earbud is docked within the case.

12. The case, an additional Hall effect sensor for detecting a magnetic field generated by each of the pair of earbuds; 12. The audio device of claim 11, further comprising: a power source for charging the set of earbuds while docked within the case.

13. 13. The audio device of claim 12, wherein each earbud comprises an electroacoustic transducer configured to generate a magnetic field, and the additional Hall effect sensor senses the magnetic field generated by the electroacoustic transducer to detect the proximity to one of the earbuds.

14. The audio device of claim 11 , wherein the set of earbuds comprises an open-ear audio device.

15. 1. An open-ear audio device, comprising: a first open-ear earpiece housing an electroacoustic transducer and including a first coupler; a second open-ear earpiece housing an electroacoustic transducer and including a second coupler, the first coupler and the second coupler configured to couple the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece while not in use at a user's ear.

16. 16. The open-ear audio device of claim 15, wherein the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece each comprise an ear cuff.

17. 16. The open-ear audio device of claim 15, wherein the first coupler and the second coupler each comprise a magnet for coupling the first and second open-ear earpieces.

18. 18. The open-ear audio device of claim 17, wherein the magnet is detectable by a Hall Effect sensor in a charging case for the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece.

19. 16. The open-ear audio device of claim 15, wherein the first coupler and the second coupler comprise complementary connectors for coupling the first and second open-ear earpieces.

20. 20. The open-ear audio device of claim 19, wherein the complementary connector comprises at least one of a snap-fit ​​connector, an interlock connector, a pressure-fit connector, or at least one magnet.

21. 16. The open-ear audio device of claim 15, wherein the first and second open-ear earpieces are untethered, such that the first and second couplers provide substantially all of the retention force in coupling the first and second open-ear earpieces.

22. 22. The open-ear audio device of claim 21, wherein the first coupler and the second coupler hold the first and second open-ear earpieces together independent of a charging case or a storage case.

23. 16. The open-ear audio device of claim 15, further comprising a detachable tether configured to connect to at least one of the first open-ear earpiece or the second open-ear earpiece.

24. 24. The open ear audio device of claim 23, wherein the detachable tether comprises a connector for connecting to an external power source or an external data source.

25. 24. The open ear audio device of claim 23, wherein when the detachable tether is connected to the first open earpiece and the second open earpiece and the first coupler and the second coupler are connected, the open ear audio device forms a circular piece of jewelry or a key chain.

26. 24. The open ear audio device of claim 23, wherein the detachable tether comprises a backup battery and a connector for at least one of charging an on-board battery in the open earpiece or directly powering the open earpiece.

27. 16. The open-ear audio device of claim 15, further comprising a charging dish for charging an on-board battery in each of the open-ear earpieces when connected.

28. 1. An open-ear audio device, comprising: a first open-ear earpiece housing an electroacoustic transducer and including a first coupler; a second open-ear earpiece housing the electroacoustic transducer and including a second coupler; and a common connector for coupling with the first coupler and the second coupler while the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece are not in use at a user's ear.

29. 30. The open ear audio device of claim 28, wherein the common connector comprises a tether.

30. 30. The open ear audio device of claim 28, wherein the common connector includes a power connector for charging the first open earpiece and the second open earpiece independently of a charging case.

31. 30. The open-ear audio device of claim 28, wherein the first coupler and the second coupler are complementary to allow direct coupling of the first open-ear earpiece to the second open-ear earpiece.

32. 30. The open-ear audio device of claim 28, wherein the first coupler and the second coupler comprise magnets.

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