Audio device with proximity detection using Hall effect sensors and independent coupling.

Abstract

Prevent loss or damage to disconnected audio devices (e.g., earbuds). [Solution] Various implementations include an audio device such as an earbud or earpiece. In a particular case, 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 supply 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 generally relates to audio devices. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to detecting the proximity of audio devices within a storage and / or charging case and mechanisms for coupling unconnected audio devices (e.g., earbuds) to reduce loss and / or damage.

Background Art

[0002] Detecting the presence of an audio device within a casing can be beneficial, for example, to control device functions and to limit battery usage. Additionally, it is desirable to prevent the loss or damage of unconnected audio devices (e.g., earbuds).

Summary of the Invention

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

[0004] Various aspects include an audio device including a set of earbuds each configured to generate a magnetic field, and a case for docking the set 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 set of earbuds while docked within the case.

[0005] In certain additional aspects, the 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 embodiment, the open-ear audio device includes a first open-ear earpiece housing an electroacoustic transducer and including a first coupler, and a second open-ear earpiece housing an electroacoustic transducer and including a second coupler, wherein the first and second couplers are configured to couple the first and second open-ear earpieces when not in use in the user's ears.

[0007] In an additional embodiment, the open-ear audio device includes 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; and a common connector for coupling the first and second couplers when the first and second open-ear earpieces are not in use in the 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 specific embodiments, the method includes detecting docking and / or detachment of a pair of earbuds into and / or from an earbud case based on signals received from a Hall effect sensor in an earbud case or from a Hall effect sensor in a pair of earbuds.

[0009] The implementation may include one of the following characteristics, or any combination thereof.

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

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

[0012] In certain cases, a pair of earbuds may include a pair of in-ear or open-ear audio devices that are not connected to each other.

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

[0014] In certain cases, open-ear audio devices include ear cuffs.

[0015] In certain embodiments, the audio device further includes at least one additional Hall effect sensor for detecting proximity to an additional one of a pair of earbuds, or for detecting the orientation of at least one of a pair 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 when one or both earbuds are present in the case.

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

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

[0018] In certain embodiments, the case is configured to initiate a charging protocol for charging the earbuds in response to a Hall effect sensor detecting proximity to at least one of the earbuds. In a particular example, the case includes a pair of slots for docking the earbuds and a controller coupled with a Hall effect sensor and a power supply. In an additional example, docking may be orientation-specific, e.g., left-facing compared to right-facing.

[0019] In certain implementations, the case further includes an additional Hall effect sensor for detecting the magnetic field generated by each of the earbuds in a pair, and a power supply for charging the earbuds while they are docked inside 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 embodiments, a pair of earbuds includes an open-ear audio device. In some examples, the open-ear audio device includes an ear cuff.

[0022] In certain cases, the first and second couplers each include magnets for connecting the first and second open-ear earpieces. In certain examples, the magnets may be located within the battery barrel of the earpieces, for example, so that the ear cuffs are aligned side by side.

[0023] In some implementations, the magnet can be detected by a Hall effect sensor in the charging case for the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece.

[0024] In certain embodiments, the first coupler and the second coupler include complementary connectors for connecting the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece.

[0025] In certain implementation configurations, the complementary connector includes at least one of the following: 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 connected, and therefore the first and second couplers provide almost all of the retaining force when joining the first and second earpieces.

[0027] In certain embodiments, the first and second couplers hold the first and second earpieces together, independently of the charging case or storage case.

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

[0029] In certain cases, the removable 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 a particular example, the connector includes a USB connector.

[0030] In certain implementations, when a removable tether is connected to a first open-ear type earpiece and a second open-ear type earpiece, and a first coupler and a second coupler are connected, the open-ear type audio device forms an annular jewelry or keychain.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0037] In certain cases, the Hall effect sensor is located within the earbud case and / or a pair of earbuds.

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

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

[0040] Details of one or more implementations are described in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other features, purposes, and advantages will become apparent from this description and drawings, as well as from the claims. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0041] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of audio devices in various implementation forms. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view of earbuds in various implementation forms. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram of electronic audio devices in various implementation forms. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram of electronic devices in audio device cases with various implementation configurations. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view of audio device cases in various implementation configurations. [Figure 6] Figure 5 shows a partial cross-section of the case. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view of audio device cases in various implementation configurations. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view of a set of audio devices in various implementation forms. [Figure 9] This is a perspective view of a set of audio devices in various implementation forms. [Figure 10] This is a perspective view of a set of audio devices and tethers in various implementation configurations. [Figure 11] This is a perspective on tethers across various implementation forms. [Figure 12] This document illustrates various implementations of audio devices and tethers. [Figure 13] This document illustrates various implementations of audio devices in cases.

[0042] Please note that the drawings of various implementation configurations are not necessarily to scale. The drawings are intended to show only typical embodiments of this disclosure and should not be considered to limit the scope of implementation configurations. In the drawings, similar numbering indicates similar elements between drawings. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0043] This disclosure is at least partially based on the recognition that a Hall effect sensor can be used within the case of an audio device (e.g., an earbud) to detect the proximity of a device (e.g., one or more earbuds). This disclosure is further at least partially based on the recognition that a Hall effect sensor can be used within one or more earbuds of a pair to indicate docking of earbuds within the case and / or proximity between earbuds. This disclosure is further at least partially based on the recognition that an open-ear audio device 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 diagram are considered substantially equivalent for illustrative purposes, and redundant descriptions of those components are omitted for clarity. The numerical ranges and values ​​described according to various implementations are merely examples of such ranges and values ​​and are not intended to limit these implementations. In some cases, the term "approximately" is used to modify values, in which case these values ​​may refer to a margin of error, such as measurement error, which may range from up to 1 to 5 percent.

[0045] The embodiments and implementations disclosed herein may be applicable to a wide variety of wearable audio devices in various form factors, such as head-mounted devices (e.g., headsets, headphones, earphones, glasses, helmets, hats, visors), neck-mounted speakers, shoulder-mounted speakers, and body-mounted speakers (e.g., watches). Some specific embodiments 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 embodiments disclosed may be applicable to wearable audio devices, such as connected or disconnected open-ear headphones, referred to herein as ear cuffs. While certain implementations of audio devices primarily intended to acoustically output audio are presented in some detail, it should be noted that such presentations of specific implementations are intended to facilitate understanding through the provision of examples and should not be considered to limit either the scope of the disclosure or the scope of the claims.

[0046] The wearable audio devices disclosed herein may include additional features and capabilities not explicitly described. These wearable audio devices may include additional hardware components such as one or more cameras, location tracking devices, and microphones, and may enable voice recognition, visual recognition, and other smart device functions. The descriptions of wearable audio devices included 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 may incorporate teachings from various implementations. This example is not intended to be limiting.

[0048] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary audio system 10. In this example, the 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 whole. The audio devices (also referred herein as ear cuffs or headphones) 30 are shown in a “true” wireless configuration (i.e., the earbuds are not connected to each other), but the audio headset 20 may also include a connected wireless configuration (where the earbuds are connected via wires while wirelessly connected to a playback device) or a wired configuration (where at least one of the earbuds has a wired connection to a playback device).

[0049] 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 the user's outer ear. 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, helix, and lobe of the ear. In one example, the body is generally L-shaped, and the acoustic module and body together (i.e., the entire open-ear headphone) are roughly C-shaped. In one example, the center of gravity of the open-ear headphones is between the acoustic module and a second part of the body. The center of gravity may be located in or near a portion of the outer ear (e.g., the helix or lobe) between the acoustic module and the second part of the body. As shown in Figure 1, devices 30A, 30B include an acoustic module 35, which is sized, molded, and positioned relative to an open-ear headphone body 40 such that the acoustic module 35 is configured to be positioned within the concha of the user's outer ear. Generally, the human outer ear (also known as the auricle or auricle) includes the concha, located below (or behind) the tragus and directly adjacent to the entrance to the external auditory canal. The concha is divided by the crus of the helix into a lower portion called the concha cavus and an upper portion called the conchae. The concha cavus is a roughly bowl-shaped feature directly adjacent to the external auditory canal. The concha cavus typically includes a cavity bounded by the antitragus, which is the lower part of the antihelix, and / or by the lobe. The lobe (i.e., the earlobe), located at the lower end of the helix, is typically directly 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., at least one of the antihelix and helix of the outer ear, as well as the lobe), and a second portion 80 configured to be located on the posterior side of the outer ear. The main body 40 is roughly L-shaped from the side (as shown in Figure 1), with a portion 60 extending approximately perpendicular to the acoustic module 35, and a connecting portion 75 extending approximately perpendicular to portion 60 and connecting to a distal portion 80. In one example, portion 80 may be roughly cylindrical so as to be configured to hold a roughly cylindrical battery power source (e.g., a rechargeable battery).Overall, as shown in Figure 1, the device 30 (e.g., open-ear headphones) is roughly "C" shaped. In one example, the acoustic module 35 and the main body 40 are part of a single-piece molded plastic housing, constructed and arranged to include a transducer, battery, and any electronics necessary for the operation of the headphones.

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

[0051] In some cases, separate or overlapping sets of electronic devices 70 are included as part of the audio device 30, for example, in each of the respective audio devices 30. However, some components described herein may exist in a single form. In some examples, the system 10 includes additional devices 55, which in this example is a docking station or case (e.g., a charging case) for the audio device (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 supply or connection to a power supply for charging the headphones 30A, 30B. The case 55 may include electronic devices 170, some of which may be similar to the electronic devices 70 of the open-ear headphones 30A, 30B. Receptacles (e.g., slots, seats, or other openings) 25 are shown by dashed lines within the case 55 for holding the headphones 30A, 30B. Each receptacle 25 can be sized to accept a pair of headphones 30A, 30B. As described herein, the receptacle 25 can be sized to accept headphones 30A, 30B in a specific orientation (for example, in only one direction).

[0052] Figure 2 shows a cross-section of a portion 80 of a device 30, which includes a printed circuit board (PCB) 210 coupled with a set of battery cells 220 and one or more magnets 230, illustrating, for example, a battery barrel 200. In this example, multiple magnets 230 are arranged on the outer surface of the PCB 210. In a particular implementation, the magnets 230 are located in a separate part of the device 30, for example, within the main body 40 or in close proximity to the acoustic module 35. In an optional implementation, as described herein, the device 30 may include a Hall effect sensor 310, for example, to support proximity detection functionality.

[0053] Figure 3 shows an exemplary electronic device 70 of the audio device 30 in schematic form. Additionally, Figure 3 illustrates a magnet 230 which may be located adjacent to the electronic device compartment or which may be included within the audio device 30 together with one or more parts of the electronic device 70.

[0054] It is understood that one or more components within 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 to or coupled with another component in a device or other system disclosed according to its implementation may communicate using any conventional wired connection and / or additional communication protocol. In some cases, the communication protocol may include Wi-Fi protocols using a wireless local area network (LAN), communication protocols such as IEEE 802.11b / g, cellular network-based protocols (e.g., third, fourth, or fifth generation (3G, 4G, 5G) cellular networks), or one of several 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, etc. In various specific implementations, components separately housed within the system 10 disclosed herein are configured to communicate using one or more conventional wireless transceivers.

[0055] As shown in Figure 3, the electronic equipment 70 contained within each device 30 may 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 dashed lines), the electronic equipment 70 may further include an inertial measurement unit (IMU) 330 for detecting the 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 electronic equipment 70 may also include one or more communication devices 340 for transmitting communication signals to other devices 30, pairing devices 30, connecting to an audio gateway, etc. In some optional examples, the electronic equipment 70 may also include at least one transducer 350 for providing audio output, for example in a wearable audio device. For example, headphones 30 may include a transducer 350 for providing audio output. One or more components within the electronic device 70 can be connected to the controller 320, which is configured to perform control functions in various implementation forms described herein.

[0056] In certain cases, the Hall effect sensor 310 is configured to detect proximity to a separate device, such as the headphones 30 and / or at least one of a pair of magnets 230 within the 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 within 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 magnets 230 within 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 within the headphones 30.

[0057] In additional optional implementations, proximity detection can be assisted by an additional near-field wireless transmission system, for example, in the communication device 340. In these cases, the near-field wireless transmission system may 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, by using signal strength as a measure of physical proximity.

[0058] Returning to Figure 3, in various implementations, the controller 320 of the audio device 30 may include a processor (e.g., including a logic engine) to detect proximity between the audio devices 30 and / or between the audio devices 30 and their corresponding cases 55, and to execute instructions for controlling device functions. In some cases, memory is coupled with the processor to store the instructions. In other implementations, the processor may access the instructions separately from a remote storage system, such as a server connected to one or more devices 30 and / or cases 55. When an instruction is executed by the processor of the controller 320, it causes the processor to detect proximity between the devices 30 and / or to cases 55 and to perform a predetermined action according to that detection. In some cases, the instructions are part of an application, such as a device detection application, which may access them via a server or store them locally, for example, in the controller 320's memory or in another storage system within the device. The device's memory may include, for example, flash memory and / or non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM). In some implementations, instructions (e.g., software such as a device detection application) are stored in an information carrier. When executed by one or more processing devices, the instructions perform one or more processes, such as those described elsewhere in this specification. Instructions can also be stored in one or more storage devices, such as one or more (e.g., non-temporary) computer-readable or machine-readable media (e.g., memory or memory on a processor). As described herein, memory may contain instructions, or a processor may detect the proximity of a device and access instructions to perform a predetermined action according to various specific implementations.It is understood that a portion of memory (e.g., instructions) may also be stored in a remote or distributed location and can be fetched by the processor for execution (e.g., via any communication protocol described herein) or otherwise retrieved.

[0059] The IMU 330 may include a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) device combining a multi-axis accelerometer, gyroscope, and / or magnetometer. Additional or alternative sensors may perform functions of the IMU 330 for detecting movement as described herein, such as optical-based tracking systems, accelerometers, magnetometers, gyroscopes, or radar. The IMU 330 may be configured to detect changes in the physical location / orientation of a device and provide updated sensor data to the controller 320 to indicate changes in the 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 in the audio device 30 and / or case 55, or other connected devices configured to detect the orientation of the audio device and / or case. The communication device 340 may include one or more radio transceivers configured to communicate through any communication protocol described herein. As described herein, in the audio device 30, the 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 emission directions in the case of a speaker system.

[0060] The electronic device 70 may also include a power supply 360, which may in some cases include an onboard battery. For example, the power supply 360 in an audio device 30 may include a battery such as a rechargeable battery.

[0061] Additional components included in the electronic equipment 70, not necessarily shown, include signal amplification and other digital signal processing (DSP) hardware and / or software, active noise reduction (ANR) and / or controllable noise cancellation (CNC) systems, input / output (I / O) devices, displays and / or user interfaces (UI), and so on. It is understood that these components, or functional equivalents thereof, can be connected to or form part of the controller 320.

[0062] Figure 4 illustrates various implementations of the electronic device 170 in case 55. In certain cases, case 55 may include electronic device 170 and additional components (e.g., magnets 230) similar to those described with respect to the electronic device 70 in headphones 30. For example, the electronic device 170 in case 55 may include a Hall effect sensor 410, a controller 420, an IMU 430, a communication device 440, and a power supply 460. In certain cases, case 55 may include one or more magnets 230. As described herein, the Hall effect sensor 410 and / or magnets 230 in case 55 can support the proximity detection function described herein when coupled with the controller 420.

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

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

[0065] Hall effect sensor inside the case

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

[0067] In certain additional implementation configurations (represented by dashed lines as optional), the Hall effect sensor 410 may be positioned between the slots 500 and configured to detect the presence of both headphones 30 within the slots 500. For example, the Hall effect sensor 410 may be positioned between the headphones 30 to sense one or both headphones 30 present in the slots 500 within the case 55. In a particular example, the Hall effect sensor 410 positioned between the slots 500 (illustrated by dashed lines) may be the sole Hall effect sensor for detecting the presence of both headphones 30 within the slots 500.

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

[0069] Returning to Figure 5, in this example, a pair of Hall effect sensors 410 are positioned adjacent to the headphones 30 so as to be interposed between the two Hall effect sensors 410 when the headphones 30 are seated in the slot 500. As will be described according to various implementations, the Hall effect sensors 410 can sense the magnetic field generated by the headphones 30 to determine, for example, that the headphones 30 are docked in the slot 500, and in some cases, oriented into 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 the magnetic flux generated by the transducer 350 inside the headphones 30 to detect proximity to the headphones 30. For example, the Hall effect sensors 410 can be positioned within the case 55 so that the 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 the magnetic flux from the transducer 350 when the headphones 30 are fully seated within the slot 500. In certain cases, it is understood that the Hall effect sensor 410 may be configured to detect the magnetic flux from one or more components within the headphones 30, e.g., the transducer 350, the power supply 360 (e.g., the battery), and / or the onboard 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 headphones 30. That is, the Hall effect sensor 410 in each slot 500 is positioned to detect the presence of the headphones 30 via its magnetic flux even if the power supply 360 (e.g., battery) for the headphones 30 has been depleted beyond a threshold sufficient to provide a voltage-based measurement. In other words, the Hall effect sensor 410 in each slot is positioned to detect the magnetic flux from the headphones 30 when the battery charge is below a few percent. In some such cases, the Hall effect sensor 410 can detect the presence of the headphones 30 via the magnetic flux of the transducer 350.

[0071] In some implementations, case 55 is configured to initiate a charging protocol for charging the headphones 30 in response to the Hall effect sensor 410 detecting proximity to the headphones 30, for example, indicating that the headphones 30 are fully seated in the slot 500 within case 55. In certain cases, the controller 420 of case 55 (Figure 4) is configured to initiate a charging protocol in response to receiving signals from one or both Hall effect sensors 410 indicating the presence of the headphones 30 in the slot 500 within case 55. In some cases, as described herein, the Hall effect sensor 410 is positioned to sense that the headphones 30 are fully seated in the slot 500. For example, the Hall effect sensor 410 for a given headphones 30 will not detect its presence unless the headphones 30 are fully seated in the corresponding slot 500. In such cases, the controller 420 takes only predetermined actions in response to receiving instructions from the Hall effect sensor 410 that both headphones 30 are docked in the slot 500.

[0072] In certain implementation configurations, as shown by dashed lines in Figures 3 and 4 as optional implementation configurations, one or more headphones 30 may include Hall effect sensors 310, and the case 55 may include one or more magnets 230. In one example, an additional Hall effect sensor 310 of a headphone 30 may be configured to indicate proximity to the case 55 based on a magnetic field detected from the magnets 230 on the case 55, or to indicate proximity to the other headphone 30 based on detecting the magnetic field generated by the other headphone 30 of a pair.

[0073] In some such cases, for example, an additional Hall effect sensor 310 in the headphones 30 can be used as a secondary mechanism for detecting docking to case 55 and / or a confirmation mechanism for detecting docking to case 55 to confirm the proximity of the headphones 30 to a slot 500 in case 55. In such an implementation, one or both controllers 320 in the headphones 30 can be configured to communicate with a controller 420 in case 55 to confirm the detected proximity / docking of the headphones 30 in 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 case 55 and to perform predetermined actions such as starting to charge the headphones 30, entering sleep mode and / or shutdown mode, or pausing or stopping audio playback.

[0074] In additional implementations, if a Hall effect sensor 310 in one or both headphones 30 is configured to detect proximity to the other headphone 30 of the pair via an onboard Hall effect sensor 310, the Hall effect sensor 310 may 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, a controller 320 in one or both headphones 30 is configured to take a predetermined action in response to detecting extreme proximity between the headphones 30, for example, that the headphones 30 are touching each other or within an extreme proximity range (e.g., within a few centimeters) of each other. In certain implementations, detecting extreme proximity between the headphones 30 causes the controller 320 to trigger a sleep mode for 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, each of the headphones 30 in a pair includes a Hall effect sensor 310. Using the exemplary depictions in Figures 3 and 4, each of the headphones 30 in a 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 in order to detect docking to the case 55, for example, to a slot 500. In such a case, the Hall effect sensor 310 in the headphone 30 detects docking (or seating) to the slot 500 via proximity to the magnet 230. Similar to the Hall effect sensor 310 shown in Figures 5 and 6, Figure 7 illustrates a magnet 230 in the case 155 positioned so as 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 a particular case, the headphone 30 is interposed between two magnets 230 in the case 155 when fully seated. In addition or alternative cases (indicated by dashed lines), the magnet 230 is positioned between the headphones 30 when docked in the slot 500 within the case 155. In some such cases, the case 155 may also include a Hall effect sensor 310 for detecting the magnetic field generated by the headphones 30, for example, the magnets in the earbuds, the transducers in the earbuds, and / or the battery in the earbuds. In some of these implementations, the Hall effect sensor 310 in the case 155 senses the magnetic field generated by the transducer 350 mounted on the headphones 30 in order to detect proximity to the headphones 30.

[0077] self-join

[0078] In certain implementations, for example, if each earbud includes an open-ear type earpiece within an ear cuff 30, each earpiece may include a coupler for connecting to a corresponding coupler on the other earpiece when not in use in the user's ear.

[0079] For example, as shown in Figure 3 as a single earpiece and in Figure 8 as a pair of earpieces, the first earpiece (e.g., an ear cuff) 30A includes a first coupler containing a first magnet 230 (or a pair of magnets), and the second earpiece (e.g., an ear cuff) 30B includes a second coupler containing a second magnet 230 (or a pair of magnets, illustrated by dashed lines as they are located inside the battery barrel 200). In these implementations, the couplers (i.e., magnets) are configured to connect the first earpiece 30A and the second earpiece 30B when they are not in the user's ear. In the illustrative depiction of Figure 9, two earpieces (e.g., ear cuff-type earbuds) 30 are shown side by side. In these cases, the magnets 230 in the battery barrel 200 align the earpieces 30, for example, in a common orientation. The magnets 230 of the battery barrel 200 of each earpiece 30 may have opposite polarity to align, for example, a section of the earpiece 30 with the same section of the other earbud of a pair (e.g., barrel 200 to barrel 200, acoustic module 35 to 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 to take a predetermined action in response to detecting the docking of the earpiece 30 in the case 55.

[0080] Figure 9 illustrates an additional implementation of the audio device 600, which includes a pair of earpieces 610A and 610B, and corresponding couplers 620A and 620B for coupling the earpieces 610A and 610B when they are not in use in the user's ear. For example, the couplers 620A and 620B may include complementary connectors (e.g., contours) 630 for interlocking the two earpieces 610 when they are not in the user's ear. In a particular case, each complementary connector 630 at least partially encloses 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 may include a magnet for coupling with the other earpiece 610B, and in some cases for detection by a Hall effect sensor within the earpiece case. In some examples, the earpieces 610A and 610B are not connected so that the first coupler 620A and the second coupler 620B provide almost all of the retaining force when connecting the earpieces 610A and 610B.

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

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

[0083] As illustrated with reference to Figure 8, the coupler (e.g., magnet 230) can hold the corresponding earpiece 30 together independently of the charging case or storage case. Similarly, as shown in Figures 9 and 10, the couplers 620, 720 hold the corresponding earpieces 610, 710 together independently of the charging case or storage case. That is, the magnet 230 and / or the couplers 620, 720 can make it possible to keep the earpieces 30, 610, and 710 coupled together without the need for a charging and / or storage case. In various implementations, the coupler (e.g., magnet 230, couplers 620, 720) is integrated with the earpiece. In these cases, the earpieces can be coupled together to make it easier to store and / or transport them without losing or misplacing them.

[0084] In certain cases, one or more earpieces are configured to connect to a detachable tether, such as the tether 760 in Figure 10. In some cases, the tether 760 includes connectors for connecting to an external power supply and / or an external data source. For example, the connectors may include a power connector and / or a USB connector. In various implementations, the power connector allows the earpieces 710 to be charged independently of the charging case. That is, the earpieces 710 can be charged via the power connector of the tether 760 without requiring docking to a case such as the case 55 (Figures 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 connect to the other earpiece 710 by a separate connector. In the depiction in Figure 10, when the detachable tether 760 is connected to each of the earpieces 710 and the coupler 720 is connected, the audio device 700 forms an annular wearable device such as a ring piece of jewelry or a keychain. In some cases, the detachable tether 760 includes a spare battery and a connector for charging the onboard battery in the earpiece 710 and / or for directly supplying power to the earpiece 710.

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

[0086] Figures 12 and 13 illustrate another implementation of the audio device 900, which includes an earpiece 910 (Figure 12) detachable from the common carrier 920 and can be stored and / or charged in a case 55 (Figure 13). In these particular cases, the earpiece 910 includes a corresponding coupler 930 for connecting to a coupler 940 of the common carrier 920. In particular cases, the coupler 930 of the earpiece 910 is also complementary to allow the earpieces 910 to be coupled to each other. In particular examples, the common carrier 920 can form an annular wearable device, such as jewelry or a keychain, for the user to carry. The common carrier 920 may also include a battery and / or connector, such as a USB connector, to an external power and / or data source.

[0087] In certain additional cases, a charging dish is provided to charge the onboard battery of one of the open-ear earpieces (e.g., 30) when they are connected. That is, when the open-ear earpieces are connected to each other, the batteries of those earpieces can be charged wirelessly, for example, via inductive charging, on the charging dish.

[0088] In some implementations, the method for detecting the docking and / or detachment of earbuds to and from the earbud case is based on signals received from Hall effect sensors within the case or within the earbuds. In certain cases, the method includes detecting docking and / or detachment of earbuds based on signals from Hall effect sensors within the case or within the earbuds. In certain implementations, the method also includes initiating charging of a pair of earbuds in response to detecting the docking of a pair of earbuds to the earbud case.

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

[0090] In any case, the earbuds and cases illustrated and described according to various implementations can enable effective detection of docking events, for example, to facilitate charging and / or power-saving actions. Furthermore, the earbuds illustrated and described herein can enable direct coupling, reducing loss and / or misplacement. Furthermore, the carriers and tethers illustrated and described according to various implementations enable the user to effectively store and / or charge the earbuds, and reduce loss and / or misplacement. Additional embodiments of the earbuds, carriers, and tethers function as stylish mechanisms for carrying audio devices.

[0091] In various implementations, components described as "coupled" to one another can be joined along one or more interfaces. In some implementations, these interfaces may include joints between separate components, while in others, these interfaces may include interconnections that are rigidly and / or integrally formed. That is, in some cases, "coupled" components can be formed simultaneously to define a single continuous member. However, in other implementations, these coupled components may be formed as separate members and then joined by known processes (e.g., soldering, fastening, ultrasonic welding, joining). In various implementations, electronic components described as "coupled" can be linked via conventional wired and / or wireless means so that these electronic components can communicate data with each other. Additionally, subcomponents within a given component can be considered linked via conventional paths, although 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 structures described herein without adversely affecting the operation of the structures described herein. Furthermore, various distinct elements may be combined into one or more individual elements to perform the functions described herein. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 10 Audio Systems 20 Audio Headsets 25 Receptacles 30, 30A, 30B Audio Devices (Open-Ear Headphones) 35 Acoustic Modules 40 Main Unit 55 cases 60 Part 1 70 Electronic equipment 75 Connection part 80 Part 2 155 cases 170 Electronic equipment 200 Battery Barrel 210 Printed circuit board (PCB) 220 battery cells 230 magnets 310 Hall effect sensor 320 Controllers 330 Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) 340 communication devices 350 transducer 360 power supply 410 Hall effect sensor 420 Controllers 430 IMU 440 communication devices 460 power supply 500 slots 510 base 520 Top 600 audio devices 610A, 610B ear tips 620A, 620B coupler 630 Complementary Connectors 640 Space 700 audio devices 710A, 710B ear tips 720A, 720B coupler 730 Complementary Connectors 740 Arm 750 Acoustic Modules 760 Detachable Tether 770 Common Connector 800 Detachable Tether 810 Wearable Connector 820 Coupler 900 audio devices 910 Eartips 920 Common Carrier 930 Coupler 940 Coupler

Claims

1. It is an audio device, A pair of earbuds, each designed to generate a magnetic field, The case comprises a case for docking the aforementioned pair of earbuds, and the case is A Hall effect sensor for detecting proximity to at least one of the earbuds based on the magnetic field, An audio device comprising: a power source for charging the pair of earbuds while they are docked in the case;

2. The audio device according to 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 proximity to one of the earbuds.

3. The audio device according to claim 1, wherein each earbud is provided with at least one magnet that generates the magnetic field.

4. The audio device according to claim 1, wherein the pair of earbuds includes a pair of in-ear or open-ear audio devices that are not connected to each other.

5. The audio device according to claim 4, wherein the earbud includes the open-ear type audio device.

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

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

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

9. Each earbud further comprises an additional Hall effect sensor, and the case further comprises at least one magnet, and the additional Hall effect sensor in each earbud, Based on the magnetic field detected from at least one of the aforementioned magnets, the proximity to the case is indicated, or The audio device according to claim 1, configured to perform at least one of the following: detecting the magnetic field generated by the corresponding earbud, and indicating proximity to the other earbud.

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

11. It is an audio device, A case equipped with at least one magnet, An audio device comprising: a pair of earbuds for docking inside the case, each earbud having a Hall effect sensor for indicating proximity to at least one magnet to indicate that the corresponding earbud is docked inside the case.

12. The aforementioned case is, An additional Hall effect sensor for detecting the magnetic field generated by each of the aforementioned pair of earbuds, The audio device according to claim 11, further comprising a power supply for charging the pair of earbuds while they are docked in the case.

13. The audio device according to 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 according to claim 11, wherein the pair of earbuds includes an open-ear type audio device.

15. It is an open-ear type audio device, A first open-ear type earpiece housing an electroacoustic transducer and including a first coupler, An open-ear audio device comprising: a second open-ear earpiece housing an electroacoustic transducer and including a second coupler, wherein the first coupler and the second coupler are configured to couple the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece when not in use on a user's ear.

16. The open-ear type audio device according to claim 15, wherein the first open-ear type earpiece and the second open-ear type earpiece each include an ear cuff.

17. The open-ear audio device according to claim 15, wherein the first coupler and the second coupler each include a magnet for connecting the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece.

18. The open-ear audio device according to 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. The open-ear audio device according to claim 15, wherein the first coupler and the second coupler are provided with complementary connectors for connecting the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece.

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

21. The open-ear audio device according to claim 15, wherein the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece are not connected, and therefore the first coupler and the second coupler provide almost all of the holding force when connecting the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece.

22. The open-ear audio device according to claim 21, wherein the first coupler and the second coupler hold the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece together, independently of the charging case or storage case.

23. The open-ear audio device according to 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. The open-ear audio device according to claim 23, wherein the detachable tether includes a connector for connecting to an external power supply or an external data source.

25. The open-ear audio device according to claim 23, wherein the detachable tether is connected to the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece, and when the first coupler and the second coupler are connected, the open-ear audio device forms an annular piece of jewelry or keychain.

26. The open-ear audio device according to claim 23, wherein the removable tether comprises a backup battery and a connector for at least one of charging the onboard battery in the open-ear earpiece or directly supplying power to the open-ear earpiece.

27. The open-ear audio device according to claim 15, further comprising a charging dish for charging the onboard battery of each of the open-ear earpieces when connected.

28. It is an open-ear type audio device, A first open-ear type earpiece housing an electroacoustic transducer and including a first coupler, A second open-ear type earpiece housing an electroacoustic transducer and including a second coupler, An open-ear audio device comprising: a common connector for connecting the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece to the first coupler and the second coupler when the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece are not in use in the user's ear.

29. The open-ear audio device according to claim 28, wherein the common connector includes a tether.

30. The open-ear audio device according to claim 28, wherein 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.

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

32. The open-ear audio device according to claim 28, wherein the first coupler and the second coupler are equipped with magnets.

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