Raised features on the earbud body

Abstract

Aspects describe a raised feature that assists a user in removing an in-ear audio output device from a case. Aspects describe a device comprising an earbud housing shaped to fit the concha of a wearer's ear, and a body coupled to the earbud housing, where when the device is worn, the body extends away from the wearer's ear canal and is oriented toward the outside of the ear, the body comprising a top cap with a flat outer portion and the raised feature, where when the device is worn, the raised feature is adjacent to the wearer's concha and is outside the ear.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Aspects of the present disclosure describe raised features on the exterior surface of the earbud body that allow the user to more easily remove the earbud from the earbud case, and the placement of the features does not alter the existing design features of the device that provide user comfort, fit, and portability. [Background technology]

[0002] In-ear devices are designed to be small, comfortable, and portable. Due to the size of the device and accompanying case, as well as the smooth surface of the in-ear device, a user may have difficulty grasping or picking up the device to remove it from the case. It would be desirable to improve a user's ability to quickly and efficiently remove an in-ear device from its case. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0003] Aspects provide in-ear audio output devices that include raised features that do not contact human tissue and that aid in removal of 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. Furthermore, the features provide a surface for better adhesion with the device, so that the device can be more easily removed from its case.

[0004] An aspect provides an in-ear audio output device comprising: an earbud housing shaped to fit against the concha of a 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 faces outside the ear, the body comprising an upper cap with a flat outer portion and a raised feature, wherein when the device is worn, the raised feature is adjacent to the wearer's concha and outside the ear.

[0005] In aspects, the raised feature comprises a crescent-shaped feature having 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 flat outer portion of the body than the first and second points.

[0006] In embodiments, at least some of the raised features are at least 0.6 mm high from the flat outer portion. In embodiments, the raised features are 1 mm or less high from the flat outer portion.

[0007] In an embodiment, the lower portion of the raised feature is finger In an embodiment, the top cap comprises a decorative cap.

[0008] An aspect provides an in-ear audio output device comprising: an earbud housing shaped to fit against the concha of a wearer's ear; and a body coupled to the earbud housing, the body extending away from the wearer's ear canal and facing outward from the ear when the device is being worn, the body comprising a top cap with a flat outer portion and a raised feature; and a charging case comprising: a case bottom, a case top, and a hinge configured to allow the case top to pivot relative to the case bottom to open and close, wherein the raised feature protrudes from the case bottom when the in-ear audio output device is positioned within the charging case.

[0009] In aspects, the case top rotates relative to the case bottom to a closed position to accommodate the raised feature when the in-ear audio output device is positioned within the charging case.

[0010] In aspects, the raised feature is adjacent to the wearer's concha and external to the ear when the device is worn. hi aspects, the raised feature comprises a crescent-shaped feature.

[0011] In an aspect, 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 flat outer portion of the body than the first and second points.

[0012] In embodiments, at least some of the raised features are at least 0.6 mm high from the flat outer portion. In embodiments, the raised features are 1 mm or less high from the flat outer portion.

[0013] In an embodiment, the lower portion of the raised feature is finger In an embodiment, the top cap comprises a decorative cap.

[0014] An aspect provides an in-ear audio output device comprising: an earbud housing shaped to fit against the concha of a 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 faces outside the ear, the body comprising a top cap with a flat outer portion and a curved raised feature, wherein when the device is worn, the curved raised feature is adjacent to the wearer's concha along an upper periphery of the top cap and is outside the ear.

[0015] In aspects, the curved raised feature comprises a crescent-shaped feature having 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 flat outer portion of the body than the first and second points.

[0016] In embodiments, the curved raised features are 1 mm or less in height from the flat outer portion.

[0017] All examples and features mentioned in this specification can be combined in any technically possible manner. Other features, objects, and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the following drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram of the lateral surface of a human ear. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of an in-ear audio output device including an earbud housing positioned within a wearer's ear. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of an in-ear audio output device including an earbud housing with an acoustic port and a stability band. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a bottom perspective view of an in-ear audio output device including an earbud housing with an acoustic port and a stability band. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a top view of a charging case in an open position for a pair of in-ear audio output devices. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a side view of a charging case in an open position containing an in-ear audio output device. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an in-ear audio output device disposed in a charging case. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of an in-ear audio output device including raised features on an outer portion of the body, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of an in-ear audio output device including raised features, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 illustrates a bottom perspective view of an in-ear audio output device including raised features, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a top view of a charging case in an open position for a pair of in-ear audio output devices including raised features, according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 12]FIG. 10 is a side view of a charging case in an open position including an in-ear audio output device including a raised feature, according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an in-ear audio output device including a raised feature disposed within a charging case, according to an aspect of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF 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 aid headphones, noise-masking earbuds, and ANR headphones. In-ear devices allow for hands-free listening, allowing users to listen to audio and / or block out sounds while doing other things. At work, people use in-ear devices to help them concentrate and avoid the distractions of others. Finally, in-ear devices are convenient while traveling or exercising because of their portability, wireless connectivity, and fit within the user's ear.

[0020] Given the small size and desired portability of in-ear devices, they are typically stored in a compact protective case (e.g., a carrying and / or charging case) when not in use, and it is desirable for the user to be able to easily and efficiently remove the in-ear device from its case.

[0021] Figure 1 shows the lateral surface of a right human ear 100 with several features identified. Ears come in many different sizes and geometries, including features not shown in Figure 1. The in-ear audio output device described herein includes a body 202 coupled to an earbud housing 204. The body is configured to sit outside the human ear, and the device housing is shaped to fit within the cavity of the concha.

[0022] Figures 2-4 show an in-ear audio output device. Figure 2 is a rear perspective view 200 of the device positioned within a 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 body 202 , an earbud housing 204 , a nozzle 206 , and a sealing structure 208 .

[0024] The body 202 is coupled to the outer surface of the earbud housing 204, which extends away from the wearer's ear canal. As shown in FIG. 2 , the body 202 is shaped like a rectangular pill and sits outside the wearer's ear when the device is worn. When the device is worn, the body 202 sits adjacent to the concha and against the outside of the wearer's ear. In some cases, the body 202 sits against the wearer's face to help hold the device in place. The outer surface of the body 202 is called the top cap. The top cap is the portion of the body 202 that is visible to the outside world.

[0025] The top cap is a flat or substantially flat decorative cap. The decorative top cap covers a non-decorative functional plate. In embodiments, the functional plate covers a printed circuit board. The top cap provides a smooth, aesthetically pleasing exterior body while covering the functional plate.

[0026] In aspects, earbud housing 204 is shaped to extend into and fit within the cavity of the concha of the ear, defining an acoustic chamber that houses the acoustic driver and other electronic components of the device.

[0027] Nozzle 206 extends from earbud housing 204 toward sealing structure 208. In embodiments, earbud housing 204 extends into, or forms a part of, nozzle 206. Nozzle 206 includes an acoustic passageway for sound waves to pass into the wearer's ear canal. In embodiments, nozzle 206 has a flat end with a substantially oval-shaped opening.

[0028] The sealing structure 208 creates a seal with a typical wearer's ear canal. The sealing structure 208 is substantially spherical and dome-shaped. The sealing structure 208 extends from the flat end of the nozzle 206 and folds back toward the wearer's outer ear.

[0029] As shown in Figure 2, when the device is inserted into the wearer's ear, the resistance port 210 is aligned with the intertragal notch of the ear. When 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 aspects, the in-ear audio output device includes a stability band 216. The stability band may include attachment features 218 that are used to attach the stability band 216 to the device, and more specifically, to the earbud housing 204. In aspects, the stability band 216 is removably attached to the earbud housing 204. In other words, the attachment features 218 allow for the removal and addition of the stability band 216 to the audio device. In other aspects, the attachment features 218 are integrally formed with the earbud housing 204.

[0031] Figure 5 is a top view 500 of the device in the case in the open position. Figure 6 is a side view 600 of the device in the case in the open position. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view 700 of the device in the case in the open position.

[0032] The case has a top portion 502, a bottom portion 504, and a hinge 506. The top portion 502 pivots relative to the base portion 504 via the hinge 506 to open and close the case. As seen in the top view 500, the device is tightly constrained within the case. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, when the case is in the open position, a small portion of the earbud body 202 extends from the top surface 508 of the case's bottom portion 504. To remove the device from the case, a 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 device's body 202 and housing 204, respectively. Given the smooth surfaces of the body 202 and housing 204 and the device's position within the case, a user may not be able to apply enough force to grasp and remove the device from the case. In some cases, a user may be able to successfully remove the device from the case, potentially resulting in a more comfortable and efficient user interaction with the device.

[0033] Thus, aspects provide features that assist a user in more easily removing an in-ear audio output device from its case. The features do not interfere with how the device fits within the user's ear and do not create additional contact points with the user's body. Thus, without compromising fit and comfort, the placement of the features enhances the user's ability to remove the device from its case.

[0034] 8-10 show in-ear audio output devices including raised features according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 8 is a rear perspective view 800 of the device positioned within a wearer's ear. Fig. 9 is a side perspective view 900 of the device. Fig. 10 is a bottom perspective view 1000 of the device.

[0035] In an embodiment, body 202 includes a flat or substantially flat portion called a top cap (e.g., as described with reference to FIGS. 2-7 ) and raised feature 802. Raised feature 802 is disposed on the top exterior surface of body 202. When the device is worn, feature 802 does not contact human skin. In an embodiment, raised feature 802 has a height of 0.6 mm to 1 mm measured from the exterior surface of body 202. Raised feature 802 may have a non-constant height.

[0036] In an embodiment, raised feature 802 is crescent-shaped. The crescent shape has a first point 802a at a first end, a second point 802b at a second end, and a middle portion 804 between first point 802a and second point 802b. In some designs, middle portion 804 extends further from body 202 than first points 802a and 802b. In one example, middle portion 804 is approximately 0.6 mm to 1 mm above the surface of body 202. First point 802a and second point 802b taper from middle portion 804. A lower portion 806 of the feature (when the device is placed in the ear) is contoured by feature 802 to the shape of a finger, tapering from middle portion 804 to points 802a and 802b, respectively.

[0037] FIG. 11 is a top view 1100 of a device including raised features 802 within a case in an open position. FIG. 12 is a side view 1200 of a device including raised features 802 within a case in an open position. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view 1300 of a device including raised features 802 within a case in an open position. FIGS. 11-13 each illustrate the minimum size and fineness of raised features 802. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, within a tightly constrained case, a device including raised features is substantially the same size as a device without the features. Thus, the raised features do not detract from the design of the case.

[0038] As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 , raised feature 802 is slightly raised from top surface 508 of bottom portion 504 of case when the case is open. When the case is open, raised feature 802 is exposed. The orientation of raised feature 802 on body 202 when the device is in the case allows a user to use raised feature 802 as a gripping point to assist in removing the device from the case. Without the feature, a user would apply 1-1.5 N of force to remove the device. With feature 802, a user would apply approximately 4-6 times as much force (e.g., 5-10 N) to remove the device from the case.

[0039] 8-13 show various embodiments of raised features on the exterior surface of the body of the device that do not come into contact with human tissue and provide a gripping surface for the user to more easily remove the device from the case. The features and embodiments of the features can be applied to devices having different designs compared to the devices shown in FIGS. 2-4.

[0040] The raised shape 802 is described and shown as a crescent shape, but may be any raised feature that provides a surface for a user to grip the device. When gripped, the raised feature facilitates the user's fingers remaining in contact with the otherwise smooth body of the device and preventing slipping from the device. The feature is located 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 unaffected. Finally, the case of the device 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] Numerous uses of, and departures from, the specific devices and techniques disclosed herein may be made without departing from the concepts of the invention, and the invention should consequently be construed as embracing each and every novel feature and combination of novel features disclosed herein. [Explanation of symbols]

[0042] 100 right ear 202 Main Unit 204 Housing 206 Nozzle 208 Sealing structure 210 Resistor Port 216 Stability Band 218 Mounting Features Port 226 502 Upper 504 Lower 506 Hinge 508 Top surface 802 Raised features 802a First point 802b Second point 804 Middle section 806 Lower

Claims

1. 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; a body coupled to the earbud housing, the body extending away from the wearer's ear canal and facing outward from the ear when the device is worn, the body including a top cap with a flat outer portion and a raised feature, the raised feature being adjacent to the wearer's concha and on the outside of the ear when the device is worn; 1. An in-ear audio output device comprising:

2. The in-ear audio output device of claim 1 , wherein the raised features comprise crescent-shaped features.

3. 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 point and the second point; the intermediate portion extends further from the flat outer portion of the body than the first point and the second point; The in-ear audio output device according to claim 2 .

4. The in-ear audio output device of claim 1 , wherein at least some of the raised features are at least 0.6 mm high from the flat outer portion.

5. The in-ear audio output device of claim 1 , wherein the raised features are no more than 1 mm high from the flat outer portion.

6. The in-ear audio output device of claim 1 , wherein a lower portion of the raised feature is contoured to the shape of a human finger.

7. The in-ear audio output device of claim 1 , wherein the top cap comprises a decorative cap.

8. 1. A system comprising: 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; an in-ear audio output device comprising: a body coupled to the earbud housing, the body extending away from the wearer's ear canal and facing outward from the ear when the device is worn, the body comprising a top cap with a flat outer portion and a raised feature; a charging case including a case bottom, a case top, and a hinge configured to allow the case top to pivot open and close relative to the case bottom, wherein the raised feature protrudes from the case bottom when the in-ear audio output device is positioned within the charging case; A system comprising:

9. 9. The system of claim 8, wherein the case top pivots relative to the case bottom to a closed position to accommodate the raised feature when the in-ear audio output device is located within the charging case.

10. The system of claim 8 , wherein the raised feature is adjacent to the wearer's concha and external to the ear when the device is worn.

11. The system of claim 8 , wherein the raised features comprise crescent-shaped features.

12. 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 point and the second point; the intermediate portion extends further from the flat outer portion of the body than the first point and the second point; The system of claim 11.

13. The system of claim 8 , wherein at least some of the raised features are at least 0.6 mm high from the flat outer portion.

14. The system of claim 8 , wherein the raised features are no more than 1 mm high from the flat outer portion.

15. The system of claim 8 , wherein a lower portion of the raised feature is contoured to the shape of a human finger.

16. The system of claim 8 , wherein the top cap comprises a decorative cap.

17. 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; a body coupled to the earbud housing, the body extending away from the wearer's ear canal and facing outward from the ear when the device is worn, the body comprising a top cap having a flat outer portion and a curved raised feature, the curved raised feature being adjacent to the wearer's concha along an upper periphery of the top cap and being external to the ear when the device is worn; 1. An in-ear audio output device comprising:

18. 18. The in-ear audio output device of claim 17, wherein the curved raised feature comprises a crescent-shaped feature.

19. 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 point and the second point; the intermediate portion extends further from the flat outer portion of the body than the first point and the second point; 19. The in-ear audio output device of claim 18.

20. 18. The in-ear audio output device of claim 17, wherein the curved raised features are no more than 1 mm high from the flat outer portion.

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