Sound output device

Abstract

The present invention is provided with: an annularly-formed driving unit having a sound output part inside thereof; and an electric unit having a driving control part inside thereof and joined to the driving unit. An internal space of the driving unit is formed as an intake hole through which external sound is taken in. The driving unit is worn to an ear in a state of being inserted to a cavity of concha. Accordingly, in a state where the electric unit is joined to the driving unit and the driving unit is inserted to the cavity of concha so as to be worn to the ear, external sound taken in from the intake hole that is the internal space of the driving unit moves to the external auditory canal. Therefore, it is possible to ensure a stable and good wearing state for the ear and ensure a natural intake state of external sound.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present technology relates to a technical field of an acoustic output device that is worn on the ear and outputs sound. [Background technology]

[0002] There are audio output devices that are worn on the ears as headphones or earphones and output sound from an audio output unit, and in recent years, audio output devices have increasingly been used outdoors in addition to indoors.

[0003] In such sound output devices, it is desirable to ensure a stable and good wearing condition, taking into account the fact that they will be worn all the time when going out or for long periods of time, and to be able to naturally take in outside sounds.

[0004] Therefore, as an acoustic output device that is capable of taking in external sounds as described above, there is one in which a through hole is formed in the part that is inserted at least partially into the cavity of the concha and worn on the ear (see, for example, Patent Document 1 or Patent Document 2).

[0005] The sound output device described in Patent Document 1 has a speaker unit with a diaphragm and a magnetic circuit disposed inside a housing, and the housing is inserted into the cavity of the concha and worn on the ear. The housing has an air vent on the ear canal side and a through hole on the opposite side to the ear canal. Outside sound is taken into the housing through the through hole, passes through the diaphragm, and travels from the air vent to the ear canal.

[0006] The acoustic output device described in Patent Document 2 has a housing composed of a tubular portion and a transmission member, and one end of the tubular portion having a through hole is inserted into the cavity of the concha and worn on the ear. A speaker unit having a vibrator and an acoustic conversion element is disposed inside the transmission member, and a vibrating member that vibrates in response to acoustic vibrations transmitted from the acoustic conversion element is disposed inside the tubular portion. External sound passes through the inside of the tubular portion toward the ear canal. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 60-22895 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-207928 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] As mentioned above, in sound output devices, it is desirable to ensure a stable and good wearing condition and to naturally take in outside sounds, taking into consideration the fact that the device will be worn all the time or for long periods of time when going out, etc., and therefore it is desirable to naturally take in outside sounds regardless of whether sound is being output from the speaker unit.

[0009] In this regard, with regard to an acoustic output device configured as in Patent Document 1, external sound taken into the housing through the through-hole passes through the diaphragm and travels toward the ear canal, so the diaphragm is present in the path of the external sound, and the diaphragm may affect the external sound heard by the user, hindering the natural intake of external sound.

[0010] Furthermore, in a configuration such as that described in Patent Document 2, in which one end of the tubular portion of the housing is inserted into the cavity of the concha and worn on the ear, the parts of the tubular portion other than the one end protrude outward from the ear, which can lead to an unstable fit to the ear. In particular, because only the vibrating member is located inside the tubular portion inserted into the cavity of the concha, and a speaker unit having a vibrator and an acoustic conversion element is located inside the transmission member located on the outside of the ear, the weight of the part located on the outside of the ear tends to be large, which can further lead to an unstable fit to the ear.

[0011] Therefore, an object of the sound output device of the present technology is to ensure a stable and good fit to the ears and to ensure a natural intake of external sounds. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] First, an acoustic output device according to the present technology includes a drive unit formed in an annular shape and having an acoustic output section therein, and an electric unit having a drive control section therein and coupled to the drive unit, wherein the space inside the drive unit is formed as an intake hole for taking in external sound, the drive unit is inserted into the cavity of the concha and is worn on the ear, the electric unit is coupled to the drive unit at a portion that does not block the intake hole, and a portion of the electric unit is coupled to the drive unit in a state where it overlaps with the drive unit in the axial direction of the intake hole. When the device is worn on the ear, the drive unit and the electric unit are disposed in the concha of the ear. It is something.

[0013] As a result, when the electric unit is connected to the drive unit and the drive unit is inserted into the cavity of the concha and worn on the ear, external sound is taken in through the intake hole, which is the space inside the drive unit, and directed toward the ear canal.

[0015] This allows the entire intake hole to be open and not blocked by the electric unit.

[0017] This forms a step between the drive unit and the electric unit, so that the electric unit can be pressed against the crus helix without causing any discomfort when the device is worn on the ear.

[0019] This prevents the drive unit and the electric unit from protruding outward from the auricle when the earphone is worn on the ear.

[0020] Fifth, in the above-described sound output device, it is desirable that the outer surface of the drive unit be formed into a curved surface.

[0021] This allows the curved surface of the drive unit to come into contact with various parts of the ear when the earphone is worn on the ear.

[0022] Sixth, in the above-described sound output device, it is desirable that the outer surface of the electric unit be formed into a curved surface or a flat surface.

[0023] This allows the curved or flat surfaces of the electric unit to come into contact with various parts of the ear when the earphone is worn on the ear.

[0024] Seventh, in the above-described acoustic output device, it is desirable that the electric unit be formed in a shape having a central axis, and that the central axis of the electric unit be inclined with respect to the central axis of the intake hole.

[0025] This allows the electric unit to be positioned in a state inclined relative to the drive unit, and makes it possible to position the drive unit and the electric unit in optimal orientations according to the shape of the ear.

[0026] Eighth, in the above-described sound output device, it is desirable that the drive unit be formed in a circular ring shape.

[0027] This allows the portion to be inserted into the cavity of the concha to be annular, making it possible to easily insert the drive unit into the cavity of the concha regardless of the shape or size of the ear.

[0028] Ninth, in the above-described sound output device, it is desirable that an opening and closing lid for opening and closing the intake hole be provided.

[0029] As a result, the intake hole is opened and closed by the opening and closing cover.

[0030] Tenth, in the above-described sound output device, it is desirable that the opening / closing cover is housed in the electric unit in an open position that opens the intake hole.

[0031] This prevents the cover from being positioned outside the drive unit and the electric unit when in the open position.

[0032] Eleventh, in the above-described sound output device, it is desirable that a detachable mounting auxiliary body be provided on the electric unit, and that the mounting auxiliary body be elastically deformable.

[0033] This makes it possible to wear the sound output device on the ear with a part of the wearing support body in contact with a part of the ear.

[0034] Twelfth, in the above-described sound output device, it is desirable that an antenna for wireless communication be disposed inside the electric unit.

[0035] This allows wireless communication to be performed via the antenna. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0036] [Figure 1] 2 to 16 show an embodiment of a sound output device according to the present technology, and this figure is a perspective view of an ear to which the sound output device is attached. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a front view of the sound output device. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a side view of the sound output device. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the sound output device. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a side view showing a state in which the sound output device is worn on an ear. [Figure 7] 10 is a side view showing the sound output device attached to the ear with the attachment support member attached; FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 shows a sound output device according to a first modified example together with FIG. 9, and is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the first opening / closing cover is in the open position. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the first opening / closing cover in the closed position. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 shows a sound output device according to a second modified example together with FIG. 11, and is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the second opening / closing cover is in the open position. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the second opening / closing cover in the closed position. [Figure 12]FIG. 14 shows a sound output device according to a third modified example together with FIG. 13, and is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the third opening / closing cover is in the open position. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing the third opening / closing cover in the closed position. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a side view showing a state in which a sound output device according to a fourth modified example is worn on an ear. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is a side view showing a state in which a sound output device according to a fifth modified example is worn on an ear. [Figure 16] 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the sound output device with the cap attached is worn on the ear. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0037] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of a sound output device according to the present technology will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The sound output device according to the present technology is used as headphones or earphones.

[0038] The acoustic output device described below is provided with a drive unit and an electric unit, and the drive unit is formed in a ring shape, for example, a circular ring shape. When indicating directions in the following explanation, the axial direction of the drive unit is taken as the left-right direction, and the directions indicated are front-back, up-down, left-right.

[0039] However, the directions of front, back, up, down, left and right shown below are for the convenience of explanation, and the implementation of the present technology is not limited to these directions.

[0040] <Ear structure> First, the structure of the ear to which the sound output device is attached will be described (see FIGS. 1 and 2).

[0041] The ears 100, 100 are considered to be parts of the head 200, and each consists of an auricle 101, 101 and various parts present inside the head 200, such as the eardrum, semicircular canals, and cochlea. The parts of the head 200 that are inside the auricles 101, 101 are the temporal regions 201, 201, respectively, and the auricles 101, 101 protrude to the left or right from the temporal regions 201, 201, respectively.

[0042] The auricle 101 is formed as a shallow concave shape that opens generally to the left or right so as to have an inner space 150, and has a part on the periphery called the helix 102 and a convex part called the crus helix 103 that is connected to the helix 102 and is located near the temporal region 201.

[0043] The medial portion of the helix 102 is called the concave scapha 104, and the lower approximately half portion inside the scapha 104 is called the convex antihelix 105. Above the antihelix 105, there is a bifurcated convex portion that is continuous with the antihelix 105, and the outer and inner portions of this bifurcated portion are called the superior crus 106 of the antihelix and the inferior crus 107 of the antihelix, respectively. The portion between the superior crus 106 of the antihelix and the inferior crus 107 of the antihelix is ​​called the concave triangular fossa 108, and the portion inside the antihelix 105 and the inferior crus 107 of the antihelix is ​​called the concave concha 109.

[0044] The part continuing below the antihelix 105 bulges slightly toward the temporal region 201 and is called the antitragus 110. The part on the temporal region 201 facing the antitragus 110 is called the tragus 111, which bulges slightly toward the antitragus 110, and the lower end continuing below the helix 102 is called the earlobe 112.

[0045] Between the antitragus 110 and the tragus 111 is an external auditory canal 113a, which is the entrance to an external auditory canal 113, and the external auditory canal 113 communicates with the eardrum, semicircular canals, and the like.

[0046] Within the inner space 150, the space surrounded by the inferior crus of the antihelix 107 and the crus of the helix 103 is called the concha 114, and the space below the concha 114 is called the cavity of the concha 115, and the concha 114 and the cavity of the concha 115 are parts of the concha 109. The cavity of the concha 115 is connected to the external auditory canal 113a of the external auditory canal 113. Within the inner space 150, the space that is continuous with the lower side of the cavity of the concha 115 and opens in a U-shape is called the intertragic notch 116.

[0047] The inner space 150 of the auricle 101 includes the concha hut 114, the concha cavity 115, and the intertragic notch 116, and also includes the scapha 104, the antihelix 105, the superior crus of the antihelix 106, the inferior crus of the antihelix 107, and the spaces lateral to the triangular fossa 108.

[0048] <Configuration of the audio output device> Next, the configuration of the sound output device 1 will be described (see FIGS. 3 to 5).

[0049] The sound output devices 1 are used in pairs, for example, one for the left ear and the other for the right ear, but sound may also be heard using a single sound output device 1.

[0050] The sound output device 1 is configured by arranging the required components inside a housing 2, and the housing 2 is composed of a first case 3 and a second case 4. An operating unit (not shown) is arranged in the housing 2. The operating unit may be, for example, a push button type operating unit or a sensitive type operating unit such as a touch panel.

[0051] The first case 3 is formed in a substantially circular ring shape that is penetrated from side to side, and the entire outer surface 3a is formed, for example, as an outwardly convex curved surface. Required components are arranged inside the first case 3, and the first case 3 and the components arranged inside the first case 3 constitute a drive unit 5.

[0052] The drive unit 5 is formed in a circular (donut) shape, and the space inside the drive unit 5 is formed as an intake hole 5a that takes in external sound, and the intake hole 5a penetrates from left to right. The drive unit 5 may have any shape as long as it is annular, and for example, the outer shape may be formed in other shapes such as an ellipse or an oval.

[0053] The second case 4 has left and right side surfaces 4a, 4a of its outer surface formed, for example, as a flat surface or a gently curved surface that convex outward, and an outer peripheral surface 4b, which is the portion of the outer surface between the side surfaces 4a, 4a, formed, for example, as a curved surface that convex outward. Required components are arranged inside the second case 4, and the second case 4 and the components arranged inside the second case 4 constitute an electric unit 6.

[0054] The drive unit 5 and the electric unit 6 are partially connected, for example, the upper end of the first case 3 of the drive unit 5 is connected to the lower end of the second case 4 of the electric unit 6, and the portion of the electric unit 6 except for one end 6a in the left-right direction is provided as a protrusion 6b that protrudes laterally from the drive unit 5 (see FIGS. 3 and 5). Specifically, when the sound output device 1 is worn on the ear 100, the protrusion 6b of the electric unit 6 is configured to be located outward in the left-right direction from the drive unit 5.

[0055] In this way, in the sound output device 1, the lower end of the second case 4 is joined to the upper end of the first case 3, and the protruding portion 6b is positioned outward in the left-right direction from the drive unit 5, so a step D is formed between the one end 6a and the drive unit 5. When the sound output device 1 is worn on the ear 100, the helical crus 103 is positioned at the step D.

[0056] As described above, the drive unit 5 is formed in an annular shape and has a central axis P (see FIG. 5). The electric unit 6 is also formed in a shape having a central axis Q, and the central axis Q of the electric unit 6 is, for example, slightly inclined with respect to the central axis P of the drive unit 5. However, in the sound output device 1, the central axis P of the drive unit 5 and the central axis Q of the electric unit 6 may be parallel to each other.

[0057] The first case 3 is configured by joining an inner housing section 7 and an outer housing section 8 on the left and right. A plurality of acoustic output holes (not shown) are formed in the inner housing section 7 at intervals in the circumferential direction. An annular acoustic output section 9 is disposed inside the first case 3. The acoustic output section 9 has a dynamic driver unit.

[0058] The acoustic output unit 9 has a holding case 10 , a magnetic drive unit 11 , an outer ring 12 and an inner ring 13 .

[0059] Annular coupling protrusions 10a, 10b are provided at one end in the left-right direction of the holding case 10. Coupling protrusion 10a has a larger diameter than coupling protrusion 10b and is positioned on the outer periphery of coupling protrusion 10b. The magnetic drive unit 11 has a magnet and a yoke and is held by the holding case 10. The outer ring 12 and the inner ring 13 are housed inside the inner housing portion 7, and the diameter of the outer ring 12 is larger than the diameter of the inner ring 13. The outer ring 12 and the inner ring 13 have their inner and outer peripheries connected to coupling protrusions 10a and 10b, respectively, and are attached to the holding case 10.

[0060] A diaphragm (not shown) is attached to the outer ring 12 and the inner ring 13. Therefore, in the acoustic output unit 9, the driving force of the magnetic drive unit 11 is transmitted to the diaphragm, causing the diaphragm to vibrate, and sound is output from the acoustic output hole.

[0061] A connection terminal 14 is attached to the upper end of the holding case 10. Currents and signals are input to the magnetic drive unit 11 held in the holding case 10 via the connection terminal 14 from a substrate described below.

[0062] The second case 4 is configured by joining an inner arrangement portion 15 and an outer arrangement portion 16 on the left and right. The inner arrangement portion 15 is formed with a terminal arrangement hole 15a and a sensor arrangement hole 15b that penetrate left and right, respectively. The inner arrangement portion 15 is formed with an annular mounting groove 15c. The outer arrangement portion 16 is formed with a microphone hole 16a that penetrates left and right. A drive control unit 17 is arranged inside the second case 4.

[0063] The drive control unit 17 has a base plate 18 , a main board 19 , a holder 20 , a battery 21 , and a sub-board 22 .

[0064] The base plate 18 and the main board 19 are disposed inside the outer arrangement portion 16, with the base plate 18 disposed on the side of the main board 19 farther from the drive unit 5 in the left-right direction. An antenna and one or more microphones (not shown) are attached to the base plate 18. A wireless signal from an external wireless communication device is input to the antenna, and sound is input to the microphone via the microphone hole 16a, and the antenna and microphone are electrically connected to the main board 19. The antenna has the function of performing wireless communication by sending and receiving sound signals.

[0065] By providing an antenna and a microphone in the sound output device 1, it is possible to make a call by wireless communication. As the microphone, for example, a MEMS (Micro Electrical Mechanical Systems) microphone is used.

[0066] A plurality of electronic components 19a, 19a, . . . are mounted on both sides of the main board 19, and a contact portion 19b is connected to one side.

[0067] The holder 20 and the battery 21 are disposed inside the inner portion 15, and the battery 21 is held by the holder 20. The battery 21 is connected to the main board 19 by a contact portion 19b.

[0068] The sub-board 22 is located on the opposite side of the main board 19 with the battery 21 in between, and is arranged inside the inner arrangement portion 15. A contact portion 22a is connected to the surface of the sub-board 22 facing the battery 21, and the battery 21 is connected to the sub-board 22 by the contact portion 22a.

[0069] The battery 21 is formed, for example, in a cylindrical shape with its axial direction in the left-right direction, and the main board 19 and the sub-board 22 are both arranged in the left-right direction inside the second case 4. Therefore, because the main board 19 and the sub-board 22 are arranged in parallel in the axial direction of the battery 21, the internal space of the second case 4 is used effectively, and the sound output device 1 can be made smaller.

[0070] A charging terminal 23 and a sensor 24 are connected to the surface of the sub-board 22 opposite the battery 21. The charging terminal 23 is arranged in a state where it is inserted into the terminal arrangement hole 15a, and the sensor 24 is arranged in a state where it is inserted into the sensor arrangement hole 15b.

[0071] The charging terminal 23 is connected to a charging device (not shown), and the charging device charges the battery 21. The sensor 24 has a function of detecting the state of attachment of the sound output device 1 to the ear 100, and detects that the sound output device 1 is attached to the ear 100.

[0072] The sub-board 22 is electrically connected to a connection terminal 14 arranged inside the first case 3 .

[0073] The second case 4 is provided with a removable mounting aid 25 (see FIGS. 3 to 5).

[0074] The mounting auxiliary body 25 is detachably attached to the inner portion 15, and is made of a material such as silicone or elastomer so as to be elastically deformable. The mounting auxiliary body 25 is integrally formed with an annular mounting portion 26 that is attached to the inner portion 15 and a support portion 27 that fits over a part of the ear 100. The mounting auxiliary body 25 is attached to the second case 4 by inserting the mounting portion 26 into the mounting groove 15c of the inner portion 15.

[0075] The support portion 27 is formed in a generally arcuate shape that protrudes outward from the attached portion 26 , and both ends thereof are continuous with the outer peripheral surface of the attached portion 26 .

[0076] In the mounting auxiliary body 25, for example, the support portion 27 is formed of a material having a lower hardness than the attached portion 26. Therefore, the support portion 27 is more easily elastically deformed than the attached portion 26, and the attached portion 26 is ensured to have high strength.

[0077] The mounted portion 26 is elastically deformed to a state in which its diameter increases and elastically returns to a state in which its diameter decreases, so that it is mounted on the inner disposed portion 15 in a state in which it is inserted into the mounting groove 15c.

[0078] <Attaching the sound output device to the ear> Next, the state of attachment of the sound output device 1 to the ear 100 will be described (see FIGS. 6 and 7). Note that the following describes the state of attachment to the left ear 100 as an example. Depending on the shape and size of the ear 100, the sound output device 1 is attached to the ear 100 either in a state where the attachment auxiliary body 25 is not attached to the second case 4 or in a state where the attachment auxiliary body 25 is attached to the second case 4.

[0079] First, the state of attachment to the ear 100 when the attachment auxiliary body 25 is not attached to the second case 4 will be described (see FIG. 6). When the size of the ear 100 is small, particularly when the size of the concha 109 is small, the sound output device 1 is attached to the ear 100 without the attachment auxiliary body 25 attached to the second case 4.

[0080] When the sound output device 1 is worn on the ear 100, the entire drive unit 5 is inserted into the cavity of the concha 115. At this time, part of the drive unit 5 may be inserted into the intertragic notch 116. The drive unit 5 has an intake hole 5a positioned corresponding to the ear canal 113, and each part is inserted inside the tragus 111 and the antitragus 110. The drive unit 5 is held down by the tragus 111 and the antitragus 110.

[0081] When the sound output device 1 is attached to the ear 100 in this manner, each part of the drive unit 5 is pressed against the tragus 111 and the antitragus 110, respectively, thereby ensuring a stable attachment of the sound output device 1 to the ear 100.

[0082] When the sound output device 1 is worn on the ear 100 , the electric unit 6 is inserted into the space in the concha 109 that extends from the cavity of the concha 115 to the fossa concha 114 .

[0083] When the sound output device 1 is attached to the ear 100 as described above, the entire drive unit 5 is inserted into the cavity of the concha 115, and the electric unit 6 is inserted into the space extending from the cavity of the concha 115 to the concha 114. Therefore, because the entire sound output device 1 is inserted into the concha 109, the sound output device 1 is less likely to fall off the ear 100, ensuring an even more stable attachment of the sound output device 1 to the ear 100.

[0084] When the sound output device 1 is worn on the ear 100, the outer peripheral surface 4b of the second case 4 is placed against the edge of the antihelix crus 107, and the helix crus 103 is positioned at the step D. Therefore, a part of the electric unit 6 is pressed against the edge of the antihelix crus 107 and a part of the electric unit 6 is pressed against the helix crus 103, ensuring a stable wearing state of the electric unit 6 on the ear 100.

[0085] Next, the state in which the second case 4 is attached to the ear 100 when the attachment auxiliary body 25 is attached will be described (see FIG. 7). If the ear 100 is large, particularly if the size of the concha 109 is large, the sound output device 1 is attached to the ear 100 with the attachment auxiliary body 25 attached to the second case 4.

[0086] When the sound output device 1 is worn on the ear 100, the entire drive unit 5 is inserted into the cavity of the concha 115. At this time, part of the drive unit 5 may be inserted into the intertragic notch 116. The drive unit 5 has an intake hole 5a positioned corresponding to the ear canal 113, and each part is inserted inside the tragus 111 and the antitragus 110. The drive unit 5 is held down by the tragus 111 and the antitragus 110.

[0087] The state of this drive unit 5 is the same as the state of the drive unit 5 described above when the mounting auxiliary body 25 is not attached to the second case 4.

[0088] When the sound output device 1 is worn on the ear 100, the electric unit 6 is inserted into the space in the concha 109, extending from the cavity of the concha 115 to the vestibulo-concha 114. At this time, the wearing aid 25 is also inserted into the space extending from the cavity of the concha 115 to the vestibulo-concha 114, and the support part 27 is elastically deformed and is placed on the edge of the crus of the antihelix 107, with the crus of the helix 103 positioned at the step D.

[0089] When the sound output device 1 is attached to the ear 100 in this manner, the support portion 27 of the attachment support body 25 is pressed against the edge of the antihelix crus 107, and a part of the electric unit 6 is pressed against the helix crus 103. This ensures that the electric unit 6 is stably attached to the ear 100.

[0090] Furthermore, when the sound output device 1 is worn on the ear 100, the entire drive unit 5 and electric unit 6 are positioned in the concha 109, and if a wearing auxiliary body 25 is attached to the electric unit 6, the wearing auxiliary body 25 is also positioned in the concha 109.

[0091] By positioning the drive unit 5 and the electric unit 6 in the concha 109 in this manner, the drive unit 5 and the electric unit 6 do not protrude outward from the concha 101 when the sound output device 1 is worn on the ear 100, ensuring a stable, comfortable wearing state of the sound output device 1.

[0092] When the sound output device 1 is worn on the ear 100, a part of the electric unit 6 may be located outside the inner space 150.

[0093] When the sound output device 1 is worn on the ear 100, for example, music data (sound signals) transmitted from a wireless communication device (not shown) is received by the antenna, and the received music data is controlled by the main board 19 and the sub-board 22 and output as sound from the sound output unit 9. The sound output from the sound output unit 9 reaches the eardrum through the ear canal 113. At this time, external sound is taken in through the intake hole 5a, passes through the ear canal 113, and reaches the eardrum.

[0094] By arranging an antenna for wireless communication inside the electric unit 6 in this way, wireless communication can be performed using the antenna, eliminating the need for a wired cable and improving the usability of the sound output device 1.

[0095] Although the above description has been given of an example of the sound output device 1 having an antenna, the sound output device 1 may be of a wired type that does not have an antenna and receives sound signals via a connection line.

[0096] As described above, in the sound output device 1, the detachable mounting auxiliary body 25 is provided on the electric unit 6, and the mounting auxiliary body 25 is elastically deformable.

[0097] Therefore, it becomes possible to wear the sound output device 1 on the ear 100 with a part of the wearing support body 25 in contact with a part of the ear 100, and the sound output device 1 can be worn stably on the ear 100 regardless of the size or shape of the ear 100.

[0098] Furthermore, in the sound output device 1, the outer surface 3a of the drive unit 5 is formed as an outwardly convex curved surface, so that when the device is worn on the ear 100, the curved surface of the drive unit 5 comes into contact with various parts of the ear 100, ensuring a comfortable fit without any discomfort.

[0099] Furthermore, in the acoustic output device 1, since the drive unit 5 is formed in a circular ring shape, the portion inserted into the cavity of the concha 115 is also circular, making it possible to easily insert the drive unit 5 into the cavity of the concha 115 regardless of the shape or size of the ear 100. This makes it possible to easily and quickly attach the acoustic output device 1 to the ear 100, and also provides a comfortable fit of the acoustic output device 1 to the ear 100.

[0100] Furthermore, since the outer surface of the electric unit 6 is formed to be curved or flat, when the electric unit 6 is worn on the ear 100, the curved or flat surface of the electric unit 6 comes into contact with various parts of the ear 100, ensuring a comfortable wearing state without any discomfort.

[0101] In addition, since the central axis Q of the electric unit 6 is inclined relative to the central axis P of the drive unit 5 (the central axis of the intake hole 5a), the electric unit 6 is positioned in an inclined state relative to the drive unit 5, making it possible to position the drive unit 5 and the electric unit 6 in the optimal orientation according to the shape of the ear 100, thereby ensuring a comfortable wearing state without any discomfort.

[0102] It is desirable that the overall length L of the sound output device 1 in the direction connecting the central axis P of the drive unit 5 and the central axis Q of the electric unit 6 be 30 mm or less (see FIG. 4). By setting the overall length L to 30 mm or less, the drive unit 5 can be inserted into the cavity of the concha 115 regardless of the size of the concha 109, and the electric unit 6 can be inserted into the space extending from the cavity of the concha 115 to the phalanx of the concha 114, making it possible to easily wear the sound output device 1 in a stable state around the ear 100.

[0103] Furthermore, when the wearing auxiliary body 25 is attached to the electric unit 6, it is positioned at a predetermined angle θ with the central axis Q as the base point with respect to the line segment S connecting the central axis P of the drive unit 5 and the central axis Q of the electric unit 6. The direction of the angle θ displacement is the direction of displacement toward the lower crus 107 of the antihelix with respect to the antihelix 105, and by positioning the wearing auxiliary body 25 at the angle θ, the wearing auxiliary body 25 is stably held against the edge of the lower crus 107 of the antihelix, ensuring a stable wearing state of the sound output device 1 to the ear 100.

[0104] <Modification> Modifications of the sound output device 1 will be described below (see FIGS. 8 to 15).

[0105] Note that, since each of the modified examples shown below has some differences in configuration compared to the above-described sound output device 1, only the parts that differ compared to the above-described sound output device 1 will be described in detail, and the other parts will be given the same symbols as those used for similar parts in the above-described sound output device 1, and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0106] First, a sound output device 1A according to a first modified example will be described (see FIGS. 8 and 9). The sound output device 1A is an example provided with a first opening / closing cover 31 that opens and closes the intake hole 5a.

[0107] The first open-close lid 31 is formed in a flat plate shape and is movable (slidable) between an open position (see FIG. 8) where it opens the intake hole 5a and a closed position (see FIG. 9) where it closes the intake hole 5a. In the open position, the first open-close lid 31 is housed, for example, inside the electric unit 6, and in the closed position, it closes the intake hole 5a from the outer storage section 8 side. The first open-close lid 31 may be operated by an actuator such as a stepping motor, or may be operated manually by a user. The operation of the actuator of the first open-close lid 31 is performed, for example, by operating an operation unit (not shown) provided in the sound output device 1A or by operating an external wireless communication device.

[0108] Next, a sound output device 1B according to a second modified example will be described (see FIGS. 10 and 11). The sound output device 1B is an example in which a second opening / closing cover 32 that opens and closes the intake hole 5a is provided.

[0109] The second opening / closing cover 32 is formed in a flat plate shape and rotates (turns) about a fulcrum shaft 32a provided inside the electric unit 6 between an open position (see FIG. 10) where the intake hole 5a is open and a closed position (see FIG. 11) where the intake hole 5a is closed. In the open position, the second opening / closing cover 32 is, for example, partially housed inside the electric unit 6, and in the closed position, the second opening / closing cover 32 closes the intake hole 5a from the outer storage section 8 side. The second opening / closing cover 32 may be operated by an actuator such as a stepping motor, or may be operated manually by a user. The actuator of the second opening / closing cover 32 is operated, for example, by operating an operating unit (not shown) provided in the sound output device 1B or by operating an external wireless communication device.

[0110] Next, a sound output device 1C according to a third modified example will be described (see FIGS. 12 and 13). The sound output device 1C is an example in which a third opening / closing cover 33 for opening and closing the intake hole 5a is provided.

[0111] The third open-close lid 33 is composed of a disk-shaped base surface portion 34 and a cylindrical peripheral surface portion 35 that protrudes from the outer periphery of the base surface portion 34 in a direction perpendicular to the base surface portion 34. A first locking protrusion 36 and a second locking protrusion 37 that extend in the circumferential direction are provided on the outer periphery of the peripheral surface portion 35, with the first locking protrusion 36 being provided at the tip portion and the second locking protrusion 37 being provided at a position closer to the base surface portion 34. Sound passage holes 35a, 35a, ... are formed in the peripheral surface portion 35 at an end on the base surface portion 34 side, spaced apart in the circumferential direction.

[0112] A support hole 38 that opens into the outer accommodating portion 8 is formed in the first case 3 of the drive unit 5. The support hole 38 opens into a part of the outer arrangement portion 16 in the left-right direction.

[0113] A locking notch 39 is formed in the first case 3 and extends in the circumferential direction and is positioned in the support hole 38. A compression coil spring 40 is disposed in the support hole 38.

[0114] The third opening / closing lid 33 has a peripheral surface 35 inserted into a support hole 38 and is supported on the first case 3 so as to be movable in the axial direction of the intake hole 5a. The third opening / closing lid 33 is moved between an open position (see FIG. 12) that opens the intake hole 5a and a closed position (see FIG. 13) that closes the intake hole 5a, and is urged in the direction of movement to the open position by the urging force of a compression coil spring 40.

[0115] When the third open-close cover 33 is in the open position, the first locking projection 36 is locked in the locking notch 39, and the sound passing holes 35a are positioned outside the support hole 38. Therefore, in the open position, the inlet hole 5a and the sound passing holes 35a are in communication, and external sound taken in through the inlet hole 5a passes through the sound passing holes 35a and 35a toward the ear canal 113.

[0116] On the other hand, when the third opening / closing lid 33 is in the closed position, the second locking protrusion 37 is locked in the locking notch 39, and the sound passage holes 35a, 35a, ... are positioned in the support hole 38. Therefore, in the closed position, the sound intake hole 5a and the sound passage holes 35a, 35a, ... are not in communication, the sound intake hole 5a is blocked by the third opening / closing lid 33, and external sound is not taken in through the sound intake hole 5a.

[0117] As described above, the sound output devices 1A, 1B, and 1C relating to the first, second, and third variants are provided with a first opening / closing lid 31, a second opening / closing lid 32, or a third opening / closing lid 33 that opens and closes the intake hole 5a.

[0118] Therefore, since the intake hole 5a is opened and closed by the first opening / closing lid 31, the second opening / closing lid 32, and the third opening / closing lid 33, the user can open and close the intake hole 5a according to the desired usage mode, ensuring good sound listening conditions regardless of the usage mode.

[0119] For example, if you want to listen only to the sound output from the sound output unit 9 indoors, you can block the intake hole 5a with the first opening / closing lid 31, the second opening / closing lid 32, and the third opening / closing lid 33, thereby listening to the sound output from the sound output unit 9 with high sound quality without hearing external sounds.

[0120] On the other hand, if you want to listen to the sound output from the sound output unit 9 and external sounds outdoors, for example, you can open the intake hole 5a using the first opening / closing lid 31, the second opening / closing lid 32, and the third opening / closing lid 33, making it possible to listen to the sound output from the sound output unit 9 and external sounds simultaneously, and ensuring safety by allowing external sounds to be taken in while listening to the sound output from the sound output unit 9.

[0121] In the first and second modified examples, the first and second opening / closing lids 31 and 32 that open and close the intake hole 5a are housed in the electric unit 6 in the open position that opens the intake hole 5a.

[0122] Therefore, since the first opening / closing lid 31 and the second opening / closing lid 32 are not positioned outside the drive unit 5 and the electric unit 6 when in the open position, the sound output device 1 can be made smaller and the first opening / closing lid 31 and the second opening / closing lid 32 can be protected.

[0123] Next, a sound output device 1D according to a fourth modified example will be described (see FIG. 14).

[0124] The sound output device 1D has an electric unit 6D formed in a rod shape (linear shape), and one end in the longitudinal direction of the electric unit 6D is connected to the drive unit 5. Therefore, the electric unit 6D is in a state of protruding from the drive unit 5. The sound output device 1D is worn on the ear 100 with the entire drive unit 5 inserted into the cavity of the concha 115 and the electric unit 6D positioned at the boundary between the earlobe 112 and the temporal region 201.

[0125] The sound output device 1D is miniaturized because the electric unit 6D is formed in a rod shape.

[0126] Next, a sound output device 1E according to a fifth modified example will be described (see FIG. 15).

[0127] In the sound output device 1E, an electric unit 6E is connected to a drive unit 5 via a linear (tubular) intermediate coupling part 41. The intermediate coupling part 41 is configured by connecting a straight part 41a extending in one direction to a curved part 41b formed in a substantially arc shape, with one end of the straight part 41a being connected to the drive unit 5 and one end of the curved part 41b being connected to the electric unit 6E. The electric unit 6E has an outer shape formed in an oval shape, for example, but the shape of the electric unit 6E is arbitrary.

[0128] Electric wires and signal wires that connect the acoustic output section 9 arranged inside the drive unit 5 and the drive control section 17 arranged inside the electric unit 6E are arranged inside the intermediate coupling section 41. The intermediate coupling section 41 may also function as a sound guide tube.

[0129] The acoustic output device 1E is attached to the ear 100 with the entire drive unit 5 inserted into the cavity of the concha 115, the straight portion 41a of the intermediate joint 41 positioned at the boundary between the earlobe 112 and the temporal region 201, the curved portion 41b of the intermediate joint 41 wrapping around the earlobe 112 from below, and at least a portion of the electric unit 6E positioned on the back side of the auricle 101.

[0130] The sound output device 1E is attached to the ear 100 with the auricle 101 sandwiched between the drive unit 5 and the electric unit 6E from the front and back, ensuring a stable attachment state.

[0131] The intermediate joint 41 may be made of any of a material that does not elastically deform, a material that can be elastically deformed, or a material that can be deformed but does not elastically deform. By making the intermediate joint 41 from a material that can be elastically deformed or can be deformed, the user can deform the intermediate joint 41 into any shape when wearing the sound output device 1E on the ear 100, making it easy to wear the sound output device 1E on the ear 100.

[0132] <Other> A cap 42 formed in a predetermined shape can be attached to the drive unit 5 of the sound output device 1 (including sound output devices 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, and 1E; the same applies below) (see FIG. 16).

[0133] The cap 42 is formed almost entirely from an elastically deformable material such as silicone or rubber, and has a cover portion 43 that is attached so as to cover part of the sound output device 1, and an insertion portion 44 that protrudes in a predetermined direction relative to the cover portion 43.

[0134] Cover portion 43 is formed, for example, in a bag shape that covers drive unit 5, is elastically deformed and stretched before attachment, and elastically returns to its original shape when attached, thereby being in close contact with the outer surface 3a of first case 3 of drive unit 5. Insertion portion 44 consists of a circumferential portion 45 that protrudes from a part of cover portion 43 and whose diameter decreases as it approaches the tip, and a closed portion 46 whose outer periphery is continuous with the tip of circumferential portion 45, and sound holes 46a, 46a, ... are formed in closed portion 46. Note that cap 42 may be provided with a portion with a sound quality adjustment function, such as an equalizer.

[0135] When the cover portion 43 is in close contact with the outer surface 3a of the first case 3 and the cap 42 is attached to the drive unit 5, one opening side of the intake hole 5a is not covered by the cover portion 43 and the intake hole 5a is connected to the internal space of the insertion portion 44.

[0136] When the cap 42 is attached to the sound output device 1, the insertion portion 44 is inserted into the ear canal 113 while the sound output device 1 is attached to the ear 100. Therefore, external sound taken in through the inlet hole 5a passes through the internal space of the insertion portion 44, through the sound holes 46a, 46a, ..., and the ear canal 113, and heads toward the eardrum.

[0137] Attaching such a cap 42 to the sound output device 1 broadens the range of uses of the sound output device 1 and improves the usability of the sound output device 1. In particular, since the cap 42 has an insertion portion 44 that is inserted into the ear canal 113, the insertion portion 44 functions as an earpiece, and it becomes possible for the sound output device 1 to efficiently transmit low-frequency sounds toward the ear canal 113.

[0138] Furthermore, the audio output device 1 may be provided with one or more balanced armature speaker units in addition to the dynamic audio output section 9. By providing a balanced armature speaker unit, it becomes possible to enhance the delicate reproduction of high frequencies and the reproduction of low frequencies, thereby improving the sound quality of the audio output device 1.

[0139] Furthermore, one or more sensors may be provided in the sound output device 1. For example, the sensor may have a function of measuring the user's pulse rate or blood oxygen concentration. By providing such sensors, the sound output device 1 can also be used as a health item, thereby improving the functionality of the sound output device 1.

[0140] <Summary> As described above, the acoustic output device 1 comprises a drive unit 5 formed in a ring shape and having an acoustic output section 9 therein, and an electric unit 6 connected to the drive unit 5 and having a drive control section 17 therein; the space inside the drive unit 5 is formed as an intake hole 5a that takes in external sounds, and the drive unit 5 is worn on the ear 100 with the drive unit 5 inserted into the cavity of the concha 115.

[0141] Therefore, when the electric unit 6 is connected to the drive unit 5 and the drive unit 5 is inserted into the cavity of the concha 115 and attached to the ear 100, external sound taken in through the intake hole 5a, which is the space inside the drive unit 5, is directed toward the external auditory canal 113, thereby ensuring a stable and good fit to the ear 100 and ensuring a natural intake of external sound.

[0142] In particular, since the entire drive unit 5 is inserted into the cavity of the concha 115 and attached to the ear 100, high stability can be ensured with respect to the attachment state to the ear 100, and since external sound is taken in through the intake hole 5a, which is a path different from the path of sound output from the sound output unit 9, external sound can be taken in with natural sound quality.

[0143] Furthermore, unlike canal-type sound output devices with earpieces, the earpieces are not attached to the ear 100 while being supported by the ear canal 113, so that when the sound output device 1 is attached to the ear 100, it is difficult for a load to be applied to the ear canal 113, preventing a feeling of pressure or fatigue on the ear 100 and ensuring that the sound output device 1 is attached to the ear 100 comfortably for long periods of time.

[0144] Furthermore, in the sound output device 1, the electric unit 6 is coupled to the drive unit 5 at a portion that does not block the intake hole 5a.

[0145] Therefore, the entire intake hole 5a is not blocked by the electric unit 6 but is left open, so that the external sounds taken in by the intake hole 5a and the sounds output from the sound output unit 9 can be clearly heard, ensuring a good listening condition for each sound.

[0146] Furthermore, in the sound output device 1, a part of the electric unit 6 is coupled to the drive unit 5 in a state where it overlaps with the drive unit 5 in the axial direction of the intake hole 5a.

[0147] Therefore, a step D is formed between the drive unit 5 and the electric unit 6, so that when the electric unit 6 is worn on the ear 100, it is pressed against the crus helix 103 without any discomfort, ensuring a comfortable and stable wearing state of the sound output device 1 on the ear 100.

[0148] The sound output device 1 may be provided with an acceleration sensor, which makes it possible to execute various functions in response to an operation (tapping operation) on the sensitive operation unit.

[0149] For example, if left and right operation units are provided, operating the right operation unit once will alternately execute the music (audio) play function and stop function, operating the right operation unit twice will execute the music skip function, and operating the right operation unit three times will execute the music rewind function. Also, operating the left operation unit once will execute the music volume increase function, and operating the left operation unit twice will execute the music volume decrease function.

[0150] The above-mentioned assignment of functions to be executed in response to the operation of the left and right operating units is one example, and the user may be able to freely set the assignment of functions to the left and right operating units by operating an external wireless communication device.

[0151] <This technology> The present technology can be configured as follows.

[0152] (1) a drive unit formed in an annular shape and having an acoustic output portion therein; an electric unit having a drive control unit therein and coupled to the drive unit; The space inside the drive unit is formed as an intake hole for taking in external sound, The drive unit is inserted into the cavity of the concha and worn on the ear. Audio output device.

[0153] (2) The electric unit is connected to the drive unit at a portion that does not block the intake hole. The sound output device according to (1) above.

[0154] (3) A part of the electric unit is coupled to the drive unit in an overlapping state in the axial direction of the intake hole. The sound output device according to (2) above.

[0155] (4) When the device is worn on the ear, the drive unit and the electric unit are disposed in the concha of the ear. The sound output device according to any one of (1) to (3).

[0156] (5) The outer surface of the drive unit is formed into a curved surface. The sound output device according to any one of (1) to (4).

[0157] (6) The outer surface of the electric unit is formed to be a curved surface or a flat surface. The sound output device according to any one of (1) to (5).

[0158] (7) The electric unit is formed into a shape having a central axis, The central axis of the electric unit is inclined with respect to the central axis of the intake hole. The sound output device according to any one of (1) to (6).

[0159] (8) The drive unit is formed in a circular ring shape. The sound output device according to any one of (1) to (7).

[0160] (9) An opening / closing cover is provided to open and close the intake hole. The sound output device according to any one of (1) to (8).

[0161] (10) The opening / closing cover is housed in the electric unit in an open position where the opening / closing cover opens the intake hole. The sound output device according to (9) above.

[0162] (11) a detachable mounting aid is provided on the electric unit; The mounting aid is elastically deformable. The sound output device according to any one of (1) to (10).

[0163] (12) An antenna for wireless communication is disposed inside the electric unit. The sound output device according to any one of (1) to (11). [Explanation of symbols]

[0164] 100 ears 101 Auricle 109 Concha 115 Concha cavity 1. Sound output device 5 Drive unit 6 Electrical Unit 9. Sound output section 17 Drive control unit 25 Mounting aid 1A Sound output device 31 First opening and closing cover 1B Sound output device 32 Second opening and closing cover 1C Sound output device 33 Third Opening Lid 1D sound output device 6D Electrical Unit 1E Sound output device 6E Electrical Unit D Step part

Claims

1. a drive unit formed in an annular shape and having an acoustic output portion therein; an electric unit having a drive control unit therein and coupled to the drive unit; The space inside the drive unit is formed as an intake hole for taking in external sound, The drive unit is inserted into the cavity of the concha and worn on the ear, the electric unit is coupled to the drive unit at a portion that does not block the intake hole, a part of the electric unit is coupled to the drive unit in an overlapping state in the axial direction of the intake hole; When the device is worn on the ear, the drive unit and the electric unit are disposed in the concha of the ear. Audio output device.

2. The outer surface of the drive unit is formed into a curved surface. The sound output device according to claim 1 .

3. The outer surface of the electric unit is formed to be a curved surface or a flat surface. The sound output device according to claim 1 .

4. The electric unit is formed into a shape having a central axis, The central axis of the electric unit is inclined with respect to the central axis of the intake hole. The sound output device according to claim 1 .

5. The drive unit is formed in a circular ring shape. The sound output device according to claim 1 .

6. An opening / closing cover is provided to open and close the intake hole. The sound output device according to claim 1 .

7. The opening / closing cover is housed in the electric unit in an open position where the opening / closing cover opens the intake hole. The sound output device according to claim 6 .

8. a detachable mounting aid is provided on the electric unit; The mounting aid is elastically deformable. The sound output device according to claim 1 .

9. An antenna for wireless communication is disposed inside the electric unit. The sound output device according to claim 1 .

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