Protruding features of the earbud body
Raised features on the earbud body facilitate easier removal from the case by providing a gripping surface, addressing the challenge of handling small, smooth-surfaced in-ear devices while maintaining comfort and design integrity.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- BOSE CORP
- Filing Date
- 2026-01-08
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-26
AI Technical Summary
Users face difficulty in easily and efficiently removing in-ear audio devices from their cases due to the small size and smooth surfaces, which can make it hard to grasp or pinch the device for removal.
Incorporating raised features on the outer surface of the earbud body that assist in gripping and removing the device from the case without affecting the fit or comfort, such as a crescent-shaped protrusion that extends slightly from the main body.
The raised features enable easier and more efficient removal of the earbuds from the case, allowing users to apply a greater force for extraction, enhancing user interaction without compromising the device's fit and comfort.
Smart Images
Figure 2026086407000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] Aspects of the present disclosure describe raised features on the outer surface of an earbud body. The features enable a user to more easily remove the earbud from an earbud case. The placement of the features does not alter the existing design features of the device that provide for user comfort, fit, and portability.
Background Art
[0002] In-ear devices are designed to be small, comfortable, and portable. Due to the size of the device and the accompanying case, as well as the smooth surface of the in-ear device, users may have difficulty grasping or pinching the device to remove it from the case. It is desirable to improve the user's ability to quickly and efficiently remove the in-ear device from the case.
Summary of the Invention
Means for Solving the Problems
[0003] Aspects provide an in-ear audio output device that includes raised features that do not contact human tissue and that assist in removing the device from a protective and / or charging case. The location of the features does not adversely affect the fit and comfort of the device within the wearer's ear. Further, the features provide a surface for better adhesion to the device, such that the device can be more easily removed from its case.
[0004] Aspects provide an in-ear audio output device comprising an earbud housing shaped to fit within the concha of the ear of a wearer of the device, and a body coupled to the earbud housing, the body extending away from the wearer's ear canal and oriented outwardly of the ear when the device is worn, the body comprising an upper cap having a flat outer portion and a raised feature, the raised feature being adjacent to the concha cymba of the wearer's ear and being outwardly of the ear when the device is worn.
[0005] In one embodiment, the raised feature comprises a crescent-shaped feature. In another embodiment, the crescent-shaped feature comprises a first point at a first end of the crescent-shaped feature, a second point at a second end of the crescent-shaped feature, and an intermediate portion between the first and second points, the intermediate portion extending further from the flatter outer portion of the main body than the first and second points.
[0006] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the raised feature is at least 0.6 mm high from the flat outer portion. In another embodiment, the raised feature is at least 1 mm high from the flat outer portion.
[0007] In one embodiment, the lower part of the raised feature is contoured to the shape of a human finger. In another embodiment, the upper cap is provided with a decorative cap.
[0008] The embodiment provides an in-ear audio output device comprising: an earbud housing molded to fit the concha of the ear of the wearer of the device; a body coupled to the earbud housing, wherein when the device is worn, the body extends away from the wearer's ear canal and is directed outward from the ear, and the body comprises an upper cap having a flat outer portion and a raised feature; and a charging case comprising a case lower portion, a case upper portion, and a hinge configured to allow the case upper portion to rotate relative to the case lower portion to open and close, wherein when the in-ear audio output device is located inside the charging case, the raised feature protrudes from the case lower portion.
[0009] In one embodiment, the upper part of the case rotates to a closed position relative to the lower part of the case when the in-ear audio output device is located inside the charging case, accommodating the raised feature.
[0010] In one embodiment, the raised feature is located externally to the wearer's concha and close to the ear when the device is worn. In another embodiment, the raised feature has a crescent shape.
[0011] In one embodiment, the crescent-shaped feature comprises a first point at a first end of the crescent-shaped feature, a second point at a second end of the crescent-shaped feature, and an intermediate portion between the first and second points, the intermediate portion extending further from the flatter outer portion of the main body than the first and second points.
[0012] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the raised feature is at least 0.6 mm high from the flat outer portion. In another embodiment, the raised feature is at least 1 mm high from the flat outer portion.
[0013] In one embodiment, the lower part of the raised feature is contoured to the shape of a human finger. In another embodiment, the upper cap is provided with a decorative cap.
[0014] The embodiment provides an in-ear audio output device comprising: an earbud housing molded to fit the concha of the wearer's ear; and a body coupled to the earbud housing, wherein when the device is worn, the body extends away from the wearer's ear canal and is directed outward from the ear, and the body comprises an upper cap having a flat outer portion and a curved protrusion, wherein when the device is worn, the curved protrusion is close to the wearer's concha along the upper outer circumference of the upper cap and is located outside the ear.
[0015] In one embodiment, the curved protruding feature comprises a crescent-shaped feature. In another embodiment, the crescent-shaped feature comprises a first point at a first end of the crescent-shaped feature, a second point at a second end of the crescent-shaped feature, and an intermediate portion between the first and second points, the intermediate portion extending further from the flatter outer portion of the body than the first and second points.
[0016] In this embodiment, the curved raised feature is less than 1 mm in height from the flat outer portion.
[0017] All examples and features mentioned herein can be combined in any technically possible manner. Other features, purposes, and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the following drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]
[0018] [Figure 1] This is a diagram of the outer surface of a human ear. [Figure 2] This is a rear perspective view of an in-ear audio output device, including the earbud housing positioned inside the wearer's ear. [Figure 3] This is a side view of an in-ear audio output device, including an earbud housing with an acoustic port and a stabilizing band. [Figure 4] This is a bottom perspective view of an in-ear audio output device, including an earbud housing with an acoustic port and a stabilizing band. [Figure 5] This is a top view of the charging case in the open position for a pair of in-ear audio output devices. [Figure 6] This is a side view of the charging case in the open position, including the in-ear audio output device. [Figure 7] This is a cross-sectional view of the in-ear audio output device located inside the charging case. [Figure 8] This is a rear perspective view of an in-ear audio output device, according to an aspect of this disclosure, which includes a raised feature on the outer part of the main body. [Figure 9] This is a side perspective view of an in-ear audio output device including a raised feature according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] This is a bottom perspective view of an in-ear audio output device including a raised feature according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] This is a top view of the charging case in the open position of a pair of in-ear audio output devices including raised features, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 12]A side view of a charging case in an open position, including an in-ear audio output device with a raised feature, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] A cross-sectional view of an in-ear audio output device with a raised feature disposed within a charging case, according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention
[0019] In-ear audio output devices have become a common and convenient part of everyday life. Some examples of such devices include audio headphones, hearing aids, hearing assist headphones, noise masking earbuds, and ANR headphones. In-ear devices enable hands-free listening, such that a user can listen to audio and / or block out sound while doing other things. During work, people use in-ear devices to help with concentration and to avoid distracting others. Finally, in-ear devices are convenient while on the move or during exercise due to their portability, wireless connectivity, and fit within the user's ear.
[0020] Given the small size and desired portability of in-ear devices, when not in use, in-ear devices are typically stored in a compact protective case (e.g., a carrying and / or charging case). It is desirable for a user to be able to easily and efficiently remove the in-ear device from its case.
[0021] FIG. 1 shows the outer surface of a human right ear 100 with several identified features. Ears come in many different sizes and geometric shapes, including features not shown in FIG. 1. The in-ear audio output device described herein includes a body 202 coupled to an earbud housing 204. The body is configured to be positioned outside of a human ear, and the housing of the device is shaped to fit within the concha cavity of the ear.
[0022] Figures 2 to 4 show in-ear audio output devices. Figure 2 is a rear perspective view 200 of the device placed inside the wearer's ear. Figure 3 is a side perspective view 300 of the device. Figure 4 is a bottom perspective view 400 of the device.
[0023] The device includes a main body 202, an earbud housing 204, a nozzle 206, and a sealing structure 208.
[0024] The main body 202 is bonded to the outer surface of the earbud housing 204, which extends away from the wearer's ear canal. As shown in Figure 2, the main body 202 is shaped like a rectangular pill and is positioned outside the wearer's ear when the device is worn. When the device is worn, the main body 202 is positioned close to the concha and touching the outside of the wearer's ear. In some cases, the main body 202 is positioned touching the wearer's face to help hold the device in place. The outer surface of the main body 202 is called the upper cap. The upper cap is the portion of the main body 202 that is visible from the outside.
[0025] The top cap is a flat or substantially flat decorative cap. The decorative top cap covers a non-decorative functional plate. In some embodiments, the functional plate covers a printed circuit board. The top cap provides a smooth and aesthetically pleasing external body while covering the functional plate.
[0026] In some embodiments, the earbud housing 204 extends toward the concha and is molded to fit therein. The earbud housing 204 defines an acoustic chamber that houses the device's acoustic driver and other electronic components.
[0027] The nozzle 206 extends from the earbud housing 204 toward the sealing structure 208. In some embodiments, the earbud housing 204 extends into the nozzle 206, in other words, forms part of the nozzle 206. The nozzle 206 includes an acoustic passage for sound waves to pass through the wearer's ear canal. In some embodiments, the nozzle 206 has a flat end with a substantially elliptical opening.
[0028] The sealing structure 208 creates a seal with the wearer's ear canal. The sealing structure 208 is substantially spherical and dome-shaped. It extends from the flat end of the nozzle 206 and folds back toward the wearer's ear.
[0029] As shown in Figure 2, when the device is inserted into the wearer's ear, the resistance port 210 aligns with the intertragal notch of the ear. Once the device is positioned in the wearer's ear, the feedforward microphone port 226 may be located outside the wearer's ear. The device may include other ports not shown, such as a mass port.
[0030] In some embodiments, the in-ear audio output device includes a stabilization band 216. The stabilization band may include mounting features 218 used to attach the stabilization band 216 to the device, more specifically to the earbud housing 204. In some embodiments, the stabilization band 216 is detachably attached to the earbud housing 204. In other embodiments, the mounting features 218 allow for the removal and addition of the stabilization band 216 to the audio device. In other embodiments, the mounting features 218 are integrally formed with the earbud housing 204.
[0031] Figure 5 is a top view 500 of the device inside the case in the open position. Figure 6 is a side view 600 of the device inside the case in the open position. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view 700 of the device inside the case in the open position.
[0032] The case has an upper part 502, a lower part 504, and a hinge 506. The upper part 502 rotates relative to the base part 504 via the hinge 506 to open and close the case. As seen in the top view 500, the device is tightly confined within the case. As shown in Figures 6 and 7, when the case is in the open position, a small portion of the earbud body 202 extends from the upper surface 508 of the lower part 504 of the case. To remove the device from the case, the user grasps the body 202 and housing 204 and pulls the device out of the case. In one example, the user's thumb and index finger grasp and push the body 202 and housing 204 of the device, respectively. Given the smooth surfaces of the body 202 and housing 204, and the position of the device within the case, the user may not be able to apply enough force to grasp the device and remove it from the case. In some cases, the user may be able to successfully remove the device from the case, but there is potential for a more comfortable and efficient user interaction with the device.
[0033] Therefore, the embodiment provides a feature that helps the user more easily remove the in-ear audio output device from its case. The feature does not interfere with how the device fits in the user's ear and does not create additional contact points with the user's body. Thus, without compromising fit and comfort, the placement of the feature enhances the user's ability to remove the device from its case.
[0034] Figures 8 to 10 show in-ear audio output devices including raised features according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 8 is a rear perspective view 800 of the device positioned inside the wearer's ear. Figure 9 is a side perspective view 900 of the device. Figure 10 is a bottom perspective view 1000 of the device.
[0035] In some embodiments, the body 202 includes a flat or substantially flat portion called an upper cap (as described, for example, with reference to Figures 2 to 7) and a raised feature 802. The raised feature is located on the upper outer surface of the body 202. When the device is worn, the feature 802 does not come into contact with human skin. In some embodiments, the height of the raised feature 802, measured from the outer surface of the body 202, is 0.6 mm to 1 mm. The raised feature 802 may have a non-constant height.
[0036] In some embodiments, the raised feature 802 is crescent-shaped. The crescent shape has a first point 802a at the first end, a second point 802b at the second end, and an intermediate portion 804 between the first point 802a and the second point 802b. In some designs, the intermediate portion 804 extends further from the body 202 than the first points 802a and 802b. In one example, the intermediate portion 804 is about 0.6 mm to 1 mm high from the surface of the body 202. The first point 802a and the second point 802b taper off from the intermediate portion 804. (When the device is placed in the ear) the lower part 806 of the feature is contoured to the shape of a finger by the feature 802 and tapers off from the intermediate portion 804 towards points 802a and 802b, respectively.
[0037] Figure 11 is a top view 1100 of the device including the raised feature 802 in an open case. Figure 12 is a side view 1200 of the device including the raised feature 802 in an open case. Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view 1300 of the device including the raised feature 802 in an open case. Figures 11 to 13 show the minimum size and fineness of the raised feature 802, respectively. For example, as shown in Figure 11, in a tightly constrained case, the device including the raised feature is substantially the same size as the device without the feature. Therefore, the raised feature does not impair the case design.
[0038] As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the raised feature 802 is positioned slightly raised from the upper surface 508 of the lower part 504 of the case when the case is open. When the case is open, the raised feature 802 is exposed. The orientation of the raised feature 802 on the body 202 when the device is inside the case allows the user to use the raised feature 802 as a gripping part to help remove the device from the case. Without the feature, the user could apply a force of 1 to 1.5 N to remove the device. With the feature 802, the user can apply a force of approximately 4 to 6 times greater (e.g., 5 to 10 N) to remove the device from the case.
[0039] Figures 8 to 13 show various embodiments of raised features on the outer surface of the device body that provide a gripping surface for easier removal of the device from the case without contact with human tissue. The features and embodiments of the features can be applied to devices having different designs compared to the devices shown in Figures 2 to 4.
[0040] The raised shape 802 is described and shown as crescent-shaped, but may be any raised feature that provides a surface for the user to grip the device. When gripped, the raised feature provides convenience by keeping the user's fingers in contact with the device body, which would otherwise be smooth, and preventing the device from slipping. The feature is positioned in one of several locations on the in-ear audio output device that does not come into contact with human skin. The size of the design remains largely unchanged. The ergonomics of the device are not affected. Finally, the device case may remain the same. The size, orientation, and nature of the feature allow the device and case to maintain existing competitive advantages related to size, fit, comfort, and design.
[0041] Many of the specific apparatuses and techniques disclosed herein can be used and deviated from without departing from the concept of the present invention. Consequently, the present invention should be interpreted as encompassing all novel features and combinations of novel features disclosed herein. [Explanation of Symbols]
[0042] 100 right ear 202 Main Unit 204 Housing 206 nozzles 208 Sealing structure 210 Resistance Ports 216 Stability Band 218 Installation Features 226 ports 502 Top 504 Lower 506 Hinge 508 Top surface 802 Elevation Features 802a First point 802b Second point 804 Middle section 806 Lower
Claims
1. An in-ear audio output device, An earbud housing molded to fit the concha of the ear of the wearer of the device, A body coupled to the earbud housing, wherein when the device is worn, the body extends away from the wearer's ear canal and is directed outward from the ear, and the body comprises an upper cap having a flat outer portion and a raised feature, wherein when the device is worn, the raised feature is close to the wearer's concha and is located outward from the ear, and the body and An in-ear audio output device equipped with [feature].
2. The in-ear audio output device according to claim 1, wherein the aforementioned raised feature has a crescent shape.
3. The crescent-shaped feature comprises a first point at the first end of the crescent-shaped feature, a second point at the second end of the crescent-shaped feature, and an intermediate portion between the first point and the second point. The intermediate portion extends further from the flat outer portion of the main body than the first and second points. The in-ear audio output device according to claim 2.
4. The in-ear audio output device according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the raised feature is at least 0.6 mm high from the flat outer portion.
5. The in-ear audio output device according to claim 1, wherein the raised feature is less than 1 mm high from the flat outer portion.
6. The in-ear audio output device according to claim 1, wherein the lower part of the aforementioned raised feature is contoured to the shape of a human finger.
7. The in-ear audio output device according to claim 1, wherein the upper cap comprises a decorative cap.
8. It is a system, An in-ear audio output device, An earbud housing molded to fit the concha of the ear of the wearer of the device, An in-ear audio output device comprising: a body coupled to the earbud housing, wherein when the device is worn, the body extends away from the wearer's ear canal and is directed outward from the ear, and the body comprises an upper cap having a flat outer portion and a raised feature; A charging case comprising a lower part of the case, an upper part of the case, and a hinge configured to allow the upper part of the case to rotate relative to the lower part of the case to open and close, wherein when the in-ear audio output device is located inside the charging case, the raised feature protrudes from the lower part of the case. A system equipped with these features.
9. The system according to claim 8, wherein the upper part of the case rotates to a closed position relative to the lower part of the case when the in-ear audio output device is located inside the charging case, and accommodates the raised feature.
10. The system according to claim 8, wherein when the device is worn, the raised feature is close to the wearer's concha and located outside the ear.
11. The system according to claim 8, wherein the aforementioned raised feature has a crescent shape.
12. The crescent-shaped feature comprises a first point at the first end of the crescent-shaped feature, a second point at the second end of the crescent-shaped feature, and an intermediate portion between the first point and the second point. The intermediate portion extends further from the flat outer portion of the main body than the first and second points. The system according to claim 11.
13. The system according to claim 8, wherein at least a portion of the raised feature is at least 0.6 mm high from the flat outer portion.
14. The system according to claim 8, wherein the raised feature is less than 1 mm high from the flat outer portion.
15. The system according to claim 8, wherein the lower part of the aforementioned raised feature is contoured to the shape of a human finger.
16. The system according to claim 8, wherein the upper cap is equipped with a decorative cap.
17. An in-ear audio output device, An earbud housing molded to fit the concha of the ear of the wearer of the device, A body coupled to the earbud housing, wherein when the device is worn, the body extends away from the wearer's ear canal and is directed outward from the ear, and the body comprises an upper cap having a flat outer portion and a curved ridge, wherein when the device is worn, the curved ridge extends along the upper outer circumference of the upper cap, close to the wearer's concha, and is located outside the ear, and the body and An in-ear audio output device equipped with [feature].
18. The in-ear audio output device according to claim 17, wherein the curved protrusion features have a crescent shape.
19. The crescent-shaped feature comprises a first point at the first end of the crescent-shaped feature, a second point at the second end of the crescent-shaped feature, and an intermediate portion between the first point and the second point. The intermediate portion extends further from the flat outer portion of the main body than the first and second points. The in-ear audio output device according to claim 18.
20. The in-ear audio output device according to claim 17, wherein the curved protrusion is less than 1 mm in height from the flat outer portion.