Electroacoustic transducer

Abstract

An electroacoustic transducer includes a diaphragm and a voice coil configured to generate a magnetic field in response to an electrical signal. A receiver magnet rotatable relative to the diaphragm about a pivot axis is configured to pivot about the pivot axis in response to the magnetic field generated by the voice coil. A lever arm is coupled to an end of the receiver magnet and rotatably fixed to the receiver magnet, the lever arm couples the receiver magnet to the diaphragm. Rotation of the lever arm about the pivot axis causes the diaphragm to vibrate and produce sound waves.

Description

[0001] Electroacoustic TransducerCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 584,217 filed September 21, 2023, entitled “Electroacoustic Transducer,” which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to electroacoustic transducers and, in some embodiments, to electroacoustic transducers for use with speakers and / or microphones.SUMMARY

[0004] In one embodiment there is an electroacoustic transducer including a diaphragm, a voice coil configured to generate a magnetic field in response to an electrical signal, a receiver magnet rotatable relative to the diaphragm about a pivot axis, the receiver magnet configured to pivot about the pivot axis in response to the magnetic field generated by the voice coil, and a lever arm coupled to an end of the receiver magnet and rotatably fixed to the receiver magnet, the lever arm coupling the receiver magnet to the diaphragm, and rotation of the lever arm about the pivot axis causes the diaphragm to vibrate and produce sound waves.

[0005] In some embodiments, the electroacoustic transducer further includes a linkage member coupling the lever arm to the diaphragm. In some embodiments, the diaphragm extends circumferentially around a central axis and the linkage member intersects the central axis of the diaphragm. In some embodiments, the receiver magnet is a permanent magnet. In some embodiments, a magnetic axis of the receiver magnet is generally perpendicular to the pivot axis. In some embodiments, a magnetic axis of the receiver magnet is generally perpendicular to the central axis of the diaphragm when the diaphragm is in a resting state. In some embodiments, the pivot axis is generally perpendicular to the central axis of the diaphragm.

[0006] In some embodiments, the electroacoustic transducer further includes a housing defining an acoustic channel and an acoustic port configured to be inserted into an ear canal of a user, the receiver magnet is coupled to the housing and exterior to the acoustic channel and the diaphragm is positioned within the housing. In some embodiments, the diaphragm is positioned within theacoustic channel. In some embodiments, the receiver magnet does not directly contact the diaphragm.

[0007] In another embodiment there is a wireless communications device including a communication earcup configured to be placed over an ear of a user, the communications earcup including an electromagnetic voice coil, and an earplug configured to be inserted, at least partially, into the ear canal of the user, the earplug including an earshell defining an acoustic channel and an eartip configured to be inserted into the ear canal of a user, a diaphragm positioned within the earshell and extending circumferentially around a central axis, a receiver magnet coupled to the earshell and rotatable relative to the earshell about a pivot axis, the receiver magnet configured to rotate relative to the earshell in response to a magnetic field generated by a voice coil embedded within the communication earcup, and a lever arm coupled to an end of the receiver magnet and rotatably fixed to the receiver magnet, the lever arm coupling the receiver magnet to the diaphragm.

[0008] In some embodiments, the earplug and communication earcup are not directly connected to one another. In some embodiments, the earplug is freely movable relative to the communication earcup. In some embodiments, the earplug does not include an electromagnet. In some embodiments, the communication earcup is a powered earcup. In some embodiments, the receiver magnet is configured to cause the diaphragm to deflect toward and away from the eartip in response to a torque applied on the receiver magnet via a magnetic field gradient generated by the electromagnetic voice coil of the communication earcup. In some embodiments, the pivot axis is generally perpendicular to the central axis of the diaphragm.

[0009] In another embodiment there is an electroacoustic transducer including a diaphragm, a lever arm rotatable relative to the diaphragm about a pivot axis and coupled to the diaphragm, a permanent receiver magnet fixed in position relative to the pivot axis, and an electromagnetic voice coil configured to generate a magnetic field in response to an electrical signal, the electromagnetic voice coil being fixedly coupled to the lever arm and configured to cause the lever arm to pivot about the pivot axis in response to the magnetic field generated by the electromagnetic voice coil interacting with a magnetic field of the permanent receiver magnet, and rotation of the lever arm about the pivot axis causing the diaphragm to vibrate and produce sound waves.

[0010] In another embodiment there is an electroacoustic transducer including a diaphragm configured to vibrate in response to sound waves, a lever arm coupled to the diaphragm and rotatable relative to the diaphragm about a pivot axis in response to vibrations of the diaphragm, a permanent receiver magnet generating a magnetic field and fixed in position relative to the pivot axis, and an electromagnetic voice coil fixedly coupled to the lever arm and positioned within themagnetic field of the permanent receiver magnet, and rotation of the lever arm causes the electromagnetic voice coil to rotate relative to the permanent receiver magnet and generate an electric audio signal.

[0011] In another embodiment there is an electroacoustic transducer including a housing including an internal cavity in fluid communication with an acoustic port, a diaphragm coupled to the housing and positioned within the internal cavity, the diaphragm being rotatable relative to the housing about a pivot axis, a permanent magnet fixedly coupled to the housing, and an electromagnetic voice coil fixedly coupled to the diaphragm and rotatable relative to the housing with the diaphragm, the electromagnetic voice coil configured to generate a magnetic field in response to an electrical signal, and generation of the magnetic field via the electromagnetic voice coil causes the diaphragm to rotate about the pivot axis and produce sound waves.

[0012] In another embodiment there is an electroacoustic transducer including a voice coil configured to generate a magnetic field in response to an electrical signal, a diaphragm, and a receiver magnet mounted directly to the diaphragm and configured to cause the diaphragm to deflect toward and away from the voice coil in response to the magnetic field generated by the voice coil.

[0013] In some embodiments, the voice coil is embedded within a communication earcup and the diaphragm is positioned within an acoustic channel of an earshell that is not directly connected to the communication earcup. In some embodiments, the acoustic channel includes a diaphragm channel that tapers to an eartip channel extending through an eartip of the earshell, the diaphragm and receiver magnet being positioned within the diaphragm channel. In some embodiments, the earplug is freely movable relative to the communication earcup. In some embodiments, no electromagnet is positioned within or directly coupled to the earplug. In some embodiments, the receiver magnet is sandwiched between opposing layers of the diaphragm. In some embodiments, the diaphragm includes a retaining wall defining an inner surface abutting the receiver magnet.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The following detailed description of embodiments of the electroacoustic transducer will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings of an exemplary embodiment. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown.

[0015] In the drawings:

[0016] Fig. l is a side cross-sectional illustration of the electroacoustic transducer in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Fig. 2 is a front elevational illustration of the electroacoustic transducer of Fig. 1;

[0018] Fig. 3 is a side cross-sectional illustration of the electroacoustic transducer of Fig. 1 in a resting state;

[0019] Fig. 4 is a side cross-sectional illustration of the electroacoustic transducer of Fig. 1 in an in-use state;

[0020] Fig. 5 is a side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an electroacoustic transducer in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Fig. 6 is a side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an electroacoustic transducer in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Fig. 7 is a top cross-sectional view of the electroacoustic transducer of Fig. 6;

[0023] Fig. 8 is a side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an electroacoustic transducer in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Fig. 9 is a side cross-sectional illustration of a wireless communications assembly including the electroacoustic transducer of Fig. 1 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Fig. 10 is a side cross-sectional illustration of the wireless communications earplug of Fig. 9 incorporating elements of the electroacoustic transducer of Fig. 1;

[0026] Fig. 11 is a side cross-sectional illustration of a wireless communications device including an electroacoustic transducer in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] Fig. 12 is top cross-sectional illustration of a wireless communications earplug including a portion of the electroacoustic transducer of Fig. 11 ;

[0028] Fig. 13 is a side cross-sectional illustration of the wireless communications earplug and portion of the electroacoustic transducer of Fig. 11; and

[0029] Fig. 14 is a perspective illustration of a diaphragm included in the electroacoustic transducer of Fig. 11.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Electroacoustic transducers are used in a variety of applications such as, but not limited to, communications devices, earphones, speakers, and microphones. Conventional electroacoustic transducers, especially those used in earphones or speakers, adhere to one of two constructions: 1) amoving-coil construction or 2) a moving-magnet construction. Moving-coil earphones include a permanent magnet fixed to a housing or frame of the earphone, and a voice coil is attached to a diaphragm. In moving-magnet earphones, the voice coil is fixed to the housing or frame of the earphone, and the permanent magnet is attached directly to the diaphragm. However, each construction includes its own benefits and drawbacks, which may not suit all desired use cases. Therefore, the disclosure of the present application provides an electroacoustic transducer that is suitable for a variety of use cases and that is different from the conventional constructions.

[0031] Referring to the drawings in detail, wherein like reference numerals indicate like elements throughout, there is shown in Figs. 1-4 an electroacoustic transducer, generally designated 100, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The electroacoustic transducer 100 may be configured to receive an electrical signal (e.g., a communications signal) and generate sound.

[0032] Referring to Figs. 1-2, the electroacoustic transducer 100 may include a diaphragm 102, a receiver magnet 104, and a lever arm 106 coupling the diaphragm 102 to the receiver magnet 104. The electroacoustic transducer 100 of the present disclosure may be configured to produce sound waves in response to a torque exerted on the receiver magnet 104 via a magnetic field produced by a voice coil 101. For example, a torque exerted on the receiver magnet 104 may cause the diaphragm 102 to vibrate, thereby producing sound. In some embodiments, the electroacoustic transducer 100 of the present disclosure is configured to convert soundwaves into an electrical signal via rotation of the receiver magnet 104 as discussed in more detail below. In some embodiments, the electroacoustic transducer 100 of the present disclosure is configured to increase sound fidelity when compared to conventional communications devices while minimizing the size and / or weight of the communications device.

[0033] In some embodiments, the receiver magnet 104 is configured to rotate relative to the voice coil 101. The receiver magnet 104 may be rotatable relative to the diaphragm 102 about a pivot axis P. The receiver magnet 104 may be mounted to a fulcrum 108 that defines the pivot axis P. The fulcrum 108 may include mounting hardware and / or structure configured to couple to the receiver magnet 104. In some instances, the fulcrum 108 is fixed in position relative to the diaphragm 102. The receiver magnet 104 may be coupled to the fulcrum 108 such that movement of the receiver magnet 104 is constrained to pivoting about the pivot axis P. In some instances, the receiver magnet 104 is only rotatable about the pivot axis P and is not translatable relative to the pivot axis. For example, a geometric center of the receiver magnet 104 may intersect the pivot axis Pand be fixed in position relative to the pivot axis P. The receiver magnet 104 may be a permanent magnet. In some embodiments, the receiver magnet 104 is a bar magnet.

[0034] The diaphragm 102 may include a central membrane 109 configured to be coupled to a mounting surface 30 and vibrate relative thereto such that the diaphragm 102 produces sound. The mounting surface 30 may generally be any surface to which the diaphragm 102 is coupled. For example, the mounting surface 30 may be the frame or gasket of a speaker, or an inner sidewall of an earphone housing. In some embodiments, the central membrane 109 is semi-rigid and is coupled to the mounting surface 30 by a flexible outer membrane 110. The flexible outer membrane 110 may be fixedly coupled to a periphery of the central membrane 109 and to the mounting surface 30. When vibrating, the central membrane 109 may travel generally linearly along a central axis C relative to the mounting surface 30 and the outer membrane 110 may bend and / or stretch in response to the linear travel of the central membrane 109. In some embodiments, the outer membrane 110 acts as a suspension limiting the maximum linear displacement of the central membrane 109 relative to the mounting surface 30 along the central axis C.

[0035] In some embodiments, the diaphragm 102 is generally centered on the central axis C. In some instances, the central membrane 109 is generally circular in shape and extends circumferentially around the central axis C. In some instances, the central membrane 109 may be generally rectangular in shape and the central axis C may pass through the geometric center of the central membrane 109 and be oriented generally perpendicular to a top and / or bottom planar surface of the central membrane 109. In further embodiments, the central membrane 109 is frustoconical in shape and the central axis C passes through the center of the circular base thereof.

[0036] In some embodiments, the direction of travel for the diaphragm 102 when vibrating is generally perpendicular to the pivot axis P of the receiver magnet 104. For example, the central axis C is generally perpendicular to the pivot axis P that the receiver magnet 104 is rotatable about. In some embodiments, the central axis C is generally perpendicular to the pivot axis P and does not intersect the pivot axis P. For example, the central axis C and pivot axis P may be offset from one another. Similarly, the receiver magnet 104 may be offset from the diaphragm 102. For example, the receiver magnet 104 and the diaphragm 102 may not directly contact one another.

[0037] The lever arm 106 may extend from the receiver magnet 104 to the diaphragm 102 such that rotation of the receiver magnet 104 may be translated into linear motion of the diaphragm 102. In some embodiments, the lever arm 106 is fixed in position relative to the receiver magnet 104. For example, the lever arm 106 may be fixedly coupled to an end of the receiver magnet 104 such that rotation of the receiver magnet 104 about the pivot axis P causes the lever arm 106 to be rotatedabout the pivot axis P as well. In this manner, as the receiver magnet 104 is rotated, the corresponding rotation of the lever arm 106 may cause the central membrane 109 of the diaphragm 102 to translate generally along the central axis C.

[0038] In some embodiments, the lever arm 106 is generally aligned with the magnetic axis M of the receiver magnet 104. For example, the magnetic axis M may pass through the center of a cross-section of the lever arm 106 taken perpendicular to the magnetic axis M. In other instances, the lever arm 106 may be offset from the magnetic axis M (e.g., positioned above the magnetic axis M). In some embodiments, the lever arm 106 may be generally parallel to the magnetic axis M. For example, the lever arm 106 may extend outwardly from the receiver magnet 104 in a direction generally parallel to the magnetic axis M.

[0039] In some instances, it may be beneficial to provide a lever arm 106 that is low in weight and high in stiffness to maximize the transfer of force between the receiver magnet 104 and the diaphragm 102. The lever arm 106 may be comprised of a material that is high in rigidity (e.g., a material having a Young’s modulus of at least 100 GPa). In some embodiments, the lever arm 106 is comprised of a plastic. In some embodiments, the lever arm 106 is comprised of a non-magnetic material. In some embodiments, the lever arm 106 is comprised of carbon fiber. In some embodiments, the lever arm 106 weighs between about 0.1g to about 0.5g. In some embodiments, the lever arm 106 weights about 0.2g. The lever arm 106 may be sized to space the fulcrum 108 from the central axis C of the diaphragm 102 by a length L. The length L may represent the distance from the pivot axis P to the central axis C as measured in a direction perpendicular to both the central axis C and pivot axis P. The length L, and therefore the length of the lever arm 106, may be determined based on the desired force applied to the diaphragm 102 and displacement of the diaphragm 102. For example, as the length L decreases, a force imparted on the diaphragm 102 via the lever arm 106 may increase while the displacement of the diaphragm 102 along the central axis C may decrease. Similarly, as the length L is increased, the force imparted on the diaphragm 102 may decrease while the displacement thereof increases. In some embodiments, the length L may be proportional to the size of the diaphragm 102. For example, the diaphragm 102 is generally circular and extends circumferentially around the central axis C. In such instances the length L of the lever arm 106 may be generally equal to or about 5% to 10% greater than the radius of the diaphragm 102. In some embodiments, the length L is within + / - 10% of the radius of the diaphragm 102. In instances where the diaphragm 102 is generally rectangular in shape, the length L may be proportional to the long or short sides defining the rectangular shape of the diaphragm 102. For example, the lever arm 106 may extend in a direction generally parallel to a long side of thediaphragm 102 and the length L may be within + / - 10% of about half the length of the long side. The lever arm 106 depicted herein has a generally cuboid shape; however, the lever arm may be cylindrical in shape and / or include one or more curved surfaces.

[0040] In some embodiments, the magnetic axis M is generally perpendicular to the pivot axis P. The magnetic axis M may intersect the pivot axis P such that as the receiver magnet 104 rotates about the pivot axis P, the magnetic axis M rotates about the pivot axis P as well. In some embodiments, the receiver magnet 104 is configured to rotate about the pivot axis P between different positions such that the magnetic axis M is generally perpendicular thereto in each position. The magnetic axis M may be generally perpendicular to the central axis C when the diaphragm 102 is in a resting state (e.g., as shown in Figs. 1-2).

[0041] The lever arm 106 may be configured to couple the receiver magnet 104 to the diaphragm 102 such that rotation of the receiver magnet 104 causes the diaphragm 102 to vibrate, thereby producing sound. In some embodiments, there is a linkage member 112 coupled to the lever arm 106 opposite the receiver magnet 104 and coupling the lever arm 106 to the diaphragm 102. For example, in some instances, the lever arm 106 does not directly contact the diaphragm 102 and instead is coupled to the diaphragm via a linkage member 112. The linkage member 112 may be generally rigid and in some instances is comprised of the same material as the lever arm 106. In some embodiments, the linkage member 112 is connected to a generally rigid portion of the diaphragm 102. For example, the linkage member 112 couples the lever arm 106 to the central membrane 109 of the diaphragm 102. The linkage member 112 may be directly connected to the central membrane 109 and to the lever arm 106. Rotation of the lever arm 106 may cause the linkage member 112 to impart a force on the central membrane 109 causing the central membrane 109 to vibrate and produce sound. In some embodiments, the linkage member 112 is rotatable relative to the lever arm 106. In other embodiments, the linkage member 112 is disposed at a fixed angle relative to the lever arm 106. In some embodiments, the lever arm 106 and the linkage member 112 are integrally formed.

[0042] The linkage member 112 may be coupled to the diaphragm 102 and generally centered thereon. For example, in some embodiments, the linkage member intersects the central axis C of the diaphragm 102 such that a point at which the linkage member 112 directly contacts the diaphragm 102 is on the central axis C. In some embodiments, the linkage member 112 is generally aligned with the central axis C. For example, when the diaphragm 102 is in a resting state, as illustrated in Figs. 1-2, the linkage member 112 may extend generally along the central axis C. In some instances, the linkage member 112 is configured to remain substantially aligned with the central axis C as thereceiver magnet 104 rotates about the pivot axis P. For example, the linkage member 112 may be rotatably coupled to the lever arm 106 substantially at the intersection of the central axis C and magnetic axis M, or generally at a point on the lever arm 106 intersecting the central axis C. As the receiver magnet 104 rotates about the pivot axis P, the linkage member 112 may rotate relative to the lever arm 106 thereby allowing the linkage member 112 to remain substantially aligned with the central axis C. In this manner, the force applied to the diaphragm 102 by the linkage member 112 may remain substantially along the central axis C. In other embodiments, the linkage member 112 is offset from the central axis C.

[0043] In other embodiments, the linkage member 112 is directly coupled to the central membrane 109 of the diaphragm 102 and offset from the central axis C. In some embodiments, the linkage member 112 is comprised of a generally rigid material. In some embodiments, the linkage member 112 is comprised of a lightweight and / or non-magnetic material (e.g., a plastic). Linkage member 112 depicted herein has a generally cuboid shape; however, the linkage member 112 may be cylindrical in shape and / or include one or more curved surfaces.

[0044] Referring to Figs. 3-4, in some embodiments, the electroacoustic transducer 100 may be configured to generate sound via a torque applied to the receiver magnet 104 by an electromagnet. The diaphragm 102 may be configured to transition from a resting state, as illustrated in Fig. 3, to an in-use state as illustrated in Fig. 4. In the resting state the outer membrane 110 of the diaphragm 102 may be generally unbent or unstretched and the central membrane 109 may be in a resting position. In the in-use state, the outer membrane 110 of the diaphragm 102 may be stretched or elastically deformed and the central membrane 109 may be offset from the resting position. As illustrated in Figs. 3-4, in response to an audio signal being received at the voice coil 101, the voice coil 101 may generate a magnetic field. The magnetic field generated by the voice coil 101 may apply a torque T on the receiver magnet 104. The torque T applied to the receiver magnet 104 may be generally equal to the cross-product between the magnetic moment of the receiver magnet 104 and the magnetic field generated by the voice coil 101. The torque T may be represented by the following equation: T = m X B where m represents the magnetic moment of the receiver magnet 104 and B represents the magnetic field strength generated by the voice coil 101. The torque r may cause the receiver magnet 104 to rotate about the fulcrum 108 thereby causing the lever arm 106 to be displaced toward or away from the diaphragm 102. The displacement of the lever arm 106 may cause the linkage member 112 to apply a force on the central membrane 109 of the diaphragm 102 corresponding to the torque T thereby causing the outer membrane 109 to stretch as the central membrane 109 vibrates, generating sound.

[0045] The electroacoustic transducer 100 of the present disclosure may be configured to selectively produce sound waves in response to a time-varying magnetic field resulting in a timevarying torque r applied to a receiver magnet 104. The magnetic field generated by the voice coil 101 may be a varying magnetic field (e.g., strength and or direction of the magnetic field may change over time) and the torque r applied to the receiver magnet 104 may vary as well. For example, a current of the audio signal may vary over time causing the magnetic field produced by the voice coil 101 to vary over time. The variances in the magnetic field may cause the amount and / or direction of torque T applied to the receiver magnet 104 to vary accordingly. The variances in torque T may translate from the receiver magnet 104 to the diaphragm 102 via the lever arm 106 and / or linkage member 112 resulting in a vibration of the diaphragm 102 according to the torque T.

[0046] Referring to Fig. 5, there is shown an electroacoustic transducer, generally designated 100’ in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The electroacoustic transducer 100’ may be generally the same as the electroacoustic transducer 100 discussed above except that the receiver magnet 104’ is mounted onto the lever arm 106’ and the voice coil 101’ is positioned within a housing 30’ that the diaphragm 102’ is mounted to. The housing 30’ illustrated in Fig. 5 may represent the shell or housing of a communications device (e.g., an earphone housing, an earplug) defining an interior cavity within which the electroacoustic transducer 100’ is positioned. In some embodiments, the fulcrum 108’ and / or voice coil 101’ are directly coupled to the housing 30’. The fulcrum 108’ and / or voice coil 101’ may be fixed in position relative to the housing 30’. The voice coil 101’ may be electrically connected to a conductive wire 19’ that transmits an audio signal to the voice coil 101’ in generally the same manner as discussed above.

[0047] The lever arm 106’ is generally the same as lever arm 106 except that it is directly coupled to the fulcrum 108’ and rotatable about the pivot axis (not shown) defined by the fulcrum 108’. The receiver magnet 104’ is generally the same as receiver magnet 104 except that it is mounted onto an outer surface of the lever arm 106’ and not directly coupled to the fulcrum 108’. The lever arm 106’ may extend outwardly from the fulcrum 108’ in a direction generally parallel to the magnetic axis M of receiver magnet 104’ and be offset from the magnetic axis M. For example, the magnetic axis M may not intersect the lever arm 106’. In some embodiments, the receiver magnet 104’ is fixedly coupled to the lever arm 106’. In this manner, the magnetic field generated by the voice coil 101’ may apply a torque on the receiver magnet 104’ thereby causing the lever arm 106’ to rotate about the fulcrum 108’ in generally the same manner as discussed above.

[0048] In some embodiments, there is a linkage member 112’ generally the same as linkage member 112 coupling the lever arm 106’ to the diaphragm 102’. The linkage member 112’ may be rotatably coupled to the lever arm 106’ and directly connected to the central membrane 109’ of the diaphragm 102’. The diaphragm 102’ may be generally the same as the diaphragm 102 discussed above. For example, the diaphragm 102’ may include a central membrane 109’ that is generally rigid and an outer membrane 110’ coupled to the housing 30’ and configured to stretch and / or deform as the central membrane 109’ translates along the central axis C to generate sound.

[0049] Referring to Figs. 6-7, there is shown an electroacoustic transducer 100” in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The electroacoustic transducer 100” may be generally the same as the electroacoustic transducer 100 described above except that the diaphragm 102” may act as a bellows for producing sound. The housing 30” may define an acoustic port 32” in fluid communication with an internal cavity 34” of the housing 30”. The diaphragm 102” may be generally the same as the diaphragm 102 discussed above except that it may be directly coupled to the fulcrum 108” at one end. The fulcrum 108” may be fixedly coupled to the housing 30” and configured to enable the diaphragm 102” to be rotated about a pivot axis (not shown) in generally the same manner as the lever arm 106’ described above. The diaphragm 102” may include a central membrane 109” that is generally the same as membrane 109 discussed above in at least that the central membrane 109” is generally rigid. The central membrane 109” may be rotatably coupled to the fulcrum 108” at one end and the outer membrane 110” may be coupled to the central membrane 109” at the opposite end. The outer membrane 110” may be generally the same as the outer membrane 110 discussed above except that it may not be coupled to the entire periphery of central membrane 109”. In some embodiments, the outer membrane 1 10” is coupled to the central membrane 109” along a peripheral sidewall opposite the fulcrum 108”. In some embodiments, the flexible outer membrane 110 is coupled to the entire perimeter of the central membrane 109”. In some embodiments, the diaphragm 102” may be replaced with the lever arm 106 that includes an outer membrane 110” attached to the housing 30” in generally the same manner as the central membrane 109”.

[0050] In some embodiments, the diaphragm 102” may at least partially define the internal cavity 34” of the housing 30”. For example, the diaphragm 102” may define a roof or upper surface of the cavity 34”. In some embodiments, the diaphragm 102” is selectively rotatable about the fulcrum 108” in response to an audio signal transmitted to the voice coil 101”. The voice coil 101” may be fixedly coupled to the central membrane 109” and electrically connected to a conductive wire 19” through which the audio signal is transmitted. The voice coil 101” maygenerate a magnetic field in response to the audio signal in generally the same manner as discussed above. In some embodiments, the voice coil 101” is configured to cause the central membrane 109” to rotate about the fulcrum 108 in response to the audio signal. For example, the receiver magnet 104”, which may be a permanent magnet, is configured to produce a magnetic field that when interacted with by the magnetic field of the voice coil 101” applies a torque to the voice coil 101” in generally the same manner as described above. The receiver magnet 104” is fixedly coupled to the housing 30’ and fixed in position relative to the fulcrum 108”.

[0051] In some embodiments, the torque applied to the voice coil 101” may cause the central membrane 109” of the diaphragm 102” to rotate causing the volume of the internal cavity 34” to either increase or decrease based on the direction of rotation. The increases and decreases in the volume of the internal cavity caused by the rotation of the central membrane 109” may cause air within the internal cavity 34” to be forced through the acoustic port 32” thereby producing sound. In some embodiments, the housing 30” may include an air inlet above the diaphragm 102” and not in fluid communication with the internal cavity 34” to enable the diaphragm 102” to rotate more easily. In some instances, there is a wedge 36” or other structure within the internal cavity 34”. The wedge 36” may be fixed relative to the housing 30” and positioned within the internal cavity 34” to reduce the maximum volume of the internal cavity 34”. The wedge 36” may include a sloped surface tapering toward the acoustic port 32”. In some embodiments, reducing the maximum volume of the internal cavity 34” may improve the efficiency of the electroacoustic transducer 100”.

[0052] Referring to Fig. 8, there is shown an embodiment of an electroacoustic transducer, generally designated 100’” and in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The electroacoustic transducer 100’” may be generally the same as the electroacoustic transducers 100 and 100’ except that it is configured to convert sound waves into an electrical signal (e.g., the voice signal). The electroacoustic transducer 100”’ may include a diaphragm 102”’, a linkage member 112’”, a fulcrum 108”’ and a lever arm 106’”, each of which being generally the same as diaphragm 102’, linkage member 112’, fulcrum 108’ and lever arm 106’. However, the diaphragm 102’” may be configured to vibrate in response to incoming sound waves thereby causing the lever arm 106’” to rotate about the fulcrum 108’”. For example, in response to a sound wave, the central membrane 109’” may translate along the central axis C causing the lever arm 106’” to be rotated about the pivot axis (not shown) defined by the fulcrum 108’”. The voice coil 101’” may be fixedly coupled to the lever arm 106’” such that it rotates with the lever arm 106’”. The receiver magnet 104’” may be a permanent magnet fixedly coupled to the housing 30’” andmay generate a magnetic field within which the voice coil 101”’ is positioned. As the voice coil 101”’ is rotated relative to the magnetic field of the receiver magnet 104”’, the voice coil 101’” may generate an electric audio signal (e.g., voice signal) via electromagnetic induction. The generated electric audio signal may be transmitted from the voice coil 101’” through a conductive wire 19”’ to a device electrically connected thereto. In other embodiments, the voice coil 101’” may be fixedly coupled to the housing 30’” and the permanent receiver magnet 104”’ may be coupled to the lever arm 106’”. In such instances, vibrations of the diaphragm 102’” may cause the receiver magnet 104” ’ to rotate relative to the voice coil 101 ’” thereby causing the voice coil 101’” to generate an electric audio signal via electromagnetic induction.

[0053] Still referring to Fig. 8, in some embodiments, the electroacoustic transducer 100’” may be configured to generate sound waves in response to an electrical signal (e.g., the voice signal). An electrical signal may be generated from an exterior source and transmitted to the voice coil 101”’ via conductive wire 19’”. In response to receiving the electrical signal, the voice coil 101’” may generate a magnetic field that interacts with the magnetic field generated by the permanent receiver magnet 104’”. The interaction between the two magnetic fields may cause a torque to be applied to the voice coil 101’” in generally the same manner as described above with reference to Fig. 7. The torque applied to the voice coil 101’” may cause the lever arm 106’” to rotate about the fulcrum 108’” thereby causing the diaphragm 102”’ to vibrate and generate sound in generally the same manner as discussed above with reference to the electroacoustic transducer 100. In this manner, the electroacoustic transducer 100’” illustrated in Fig. 8 may be configured to convert sound waves to an electrical signal and vice versa as desired.

[0054] Referring to Figs. 9-10, an example of the electroacoustic transducer 100 of the present disclosure included in a wireless communications assembly 10 is shown. The wireless communications assembly 10 illustrated herein is configured to produce sound in response to an audio signal as discussed above with regard to Figs. 3-4. The wireless communications assembly 10 may include a communication earcup 12, also referred to as earcup 12, and a wireless communications earplug 14, also referred to as earplug 14. The earcup 12 may be configured to be placed over an ear of a user. For example, the earcup 12 may include an ear cushion 16 configured to abut the user’s head and surround the user’s ear when the earcup 12 is worn by the user. In some embodiments, the earcup 12 may be a powered earcup included in a wireless communications headset that is electrically connected to a power source (e.g., external power source, battery pack, rechargeable battery). In this manner, power may be transmitted to the earcup 12. In some embodiments, the earcup 12 includes an electromagnetic voice coil 101 configured to generate amagnetic field in response to an electric current. For example, the dotted lines in Fig. 9 may illustrate a magnetic field generated by the voice coil 101 in response to an electric current received at the voice coil 101 . Tn some embodiments, the electromagnetic voice coil 101 is configured to receive a communications signal (e.g., an electric current) and generate the magnetic field based on the received communications signal. In some embodiments, the incoming communications signal is amplified prior to being directed to the electromagnetic voice coil 101.

[0055] In some embodiments, the communications signal transmitted to the voice coil 101 may be summed with an ambient noise signal prior to being transmitted to the voice coil 101. For example, the earcup 12 may include an external microphone connected thereto and configured to convert ambient noise to an ambient noise signal. The ambient noise signal may be summed with the communications signal and transmitted to voice coil 101 such that a user may hear their surroundings while also receiving communications. In some embodiments, the earcup 12 may require power to generate the ambient noise signal. In instances where there is no power directly transmitted to the earcup 12 in relation to generating the ambient noise signal, the earcup 12 may be configured to receive just the communications signal. Such instances may be referred to as operating in a failsafe state. In the failsafe state, the communications signal may be routed directly to the electromagnetic voice coil 101 and / or to a speaker embedded in the earcup 12 via a failsafe communication pathway such that earcup 12 may be operable for radio communications. In some instances, in the failsafe state, the communications signal is routed directly to a speaker embedded in the earcup 12 such that sound is generated by the earcup 12 instead of the earplug 14. In other instances, in the failsafe state, the incoming communications signal is routed to the electromagnetic voice coil 101 to generate sound at the earplug 14, as discussed in more detail below.

[0056] In some embodiments, the electromagnetic voice coil 101 may be configured to generate a time-varying magnetic field, as discussed above. The electromagnetic voice coil 101 may be selectively operated to generate a magnetic field at predetermined times, having predetermined strength and / or directed toward or away from the earplug 14. For example, the wireless communications assembly 10 may include a controller (not shown) configured to regulate one or more of: 1) when current is supplied to the voice coil, 2) the amount of current that is supplied to the voice coil 101, and / or 3) the direction of the current supplied to the voice coil 101.

[0057] The earplug 14 may be configured to be coupled to a user’s ear and generate sound based on the magnetic field generated by the electromagnetic voice coil 101. For example, the one or more elements of the electroacoustic transducer 100 may be positioned within the earplug 14 such that sound is generated in response to the magnetic field generated by the electromagnetic voice coil 101.In some embodiments, the earplug 14 and earcup 12 are freely movable relative to one another. For example, the earplug 14 may not be mechanically coupled to the earcup 12. In some embodiments, the earplug 14 and earcup 12 may not directly contact one another and / or be directly connected to one another.

[0058] Still referring to Figs. 9-10, the earplug 14 may include an earshell 20, and some elements of the electroacoustic transducer 100 may be positioned within the earshell 20. In some embodiments, the diaphragm 102, receiver magnet 104, lever arm 106, fulcrum 108 and linkage member 112 may be positioned within the earshell 20. In some instances, a peripheral side wall of the diaphragm 102 is fixedly coupled to the earshell 20. The earshell 20 may at least partially enclose the electroacoustic transducer 100. The earshell 20 may define an acoustic channel 22 for the transmission of sound generated by the earplug 14. The diaphragm 102 may be positioned within the acoustic channel 22 and fixedly coupled thereto. For example, a periphery of the diaphragm 102 may abut an inner sidewall of the acoustic channel 22 and be fixedly coupled thereto. The diaphragm 102 may be acoustically coupled to the acoustic channel 22 such that sound generated by the diaphragm 102, as described above, may be transmitted through the acoustic channel 22 and to a user. In some embodiments, the fulcrum 108 of the electroacoustic transducer 100 is fixedly coupled to the earshell 20.

[0059] In some embodiments, the earshell 20 is configured to direct sound generated by the diaphragm 102 directly into a user’s ear canal. For example, the earshell 20 may define an eartip 24 configured to be inserted into the ear canal of a user. The eartip 24 may be acoustically coupled to the acoustic channel 22 such that sound may travel through the acoustic channel 22 and out of the eartip 24 into a user’s ear canal. For example, the acoustic channel 22 may include a diaphragm channel 22a that tapers to an eartip channel 22b, which extends through the eartip 24. The diaphragm channel 22a may have a diameter that is greater than the eartip channel 22b. In some embodiments, the diaphragm 102 is positioned within the diaphragm channel 22a. In some embodiments, the eartip 24 is configured to detachably receive a comfort tip to improve the comfort to a user wearing the eartip 24 and to form a seal between the eartip 24 and the ear canal of the user. For example, there may be a plurality of different deformable comfort tips (e.g., single-flange rubber, foam) that may be detachably coupled to the eartip 24 or a custom fit comfort tip. In some embodiments, the earplug 14 is waterproof. For example, the earshell 20 may be configured to prevent water from entering into the earshell 20 and / or into the acoustic channel 22. In some embodiments, there is a waterproof membrane lining an inner surface of the earshell 20 and configured to prevent water, or other liquids, from entering into the earplug 14.

[0060] In some embodiments, the earplug 14 may not include an electromagnet. For example, there may be no electromagnet directly connected to the earshell 20 and / or enclosed at least partially therein. The electromagnet used to apply torque T to the receiver magnet 104 may be included in the earcup 12. For example, and as discussed above, the electromagnetic voice coil 101 may be embedded within the earcup 12 and configured to generate a magnetic field thereby selectively applying a torque T to the receiver magnet 104. In some embodiments, the earplug 14 may not include any electrical components directly coupled to and / or included therewith. For example, the earplug 14 may be devoid of any components or mechanisms requiring an electrical current to operate. In some embodiments, the earplug 14 is configured to generate sound without receiving an electrical current. By providing an earplug 14 that does not include any electrical components, the earplug 14 of the present disclosure may be less prone to damage caused by intrusion of water and / or other liquids within the earshell 20.

[0061] Referring to Fig. 11, an example of an electroacoustic transducer, generally designated 100””, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, is shown included in an embodiment of a wireless communications assembly 10’. The wireless communications assembly 10’ may be generally the same as communications assembly 10 discussed above. The electroacoustic transducer 100”” may be configured to transmit communications signals wirelessly between an earcup and an earplug. The electroacoustic transducer 100”” may be generally similar to the electroacoustic transducer 100 except that the receiver magnet 104”” may be embedded within the diaphragm 102””. In some embodiments, the electroacoustic transducer 100”” is included in an earcup 12’ and earplug 14’ of a communications assembly 10’. For example, the earcup 12’ may house the voice coil 101 ”” and the earplug 14’ may house diaphragm 102”” and receiver magnet 104””.

[0062] The earcup 12’ may be configured to be placed over an ear of a user. For example, the earcup 12’ may include an ear cushion 16’ configured to abut the user’s head and surround the user’s ear when the earcup 12’ is worn by the user. In some embodiments, the earcup 12’ may be a powered earcup included in a wireless communications headset that is electrically connected to a power source (e.g., external power source, battery pack, rechargeable battery). In this manner, power may be transmitted to the earcup 12’. In some embodiments, the earcup 12’ houses a voice coil 101”” generally the same as voice coil 101 discussed above. The dotted lines in Fig. 11 may illustrate a magnetic field generated by the voice coil 101”” in response to an electric current received at the voice coil 101””. In some embodiments, the voice coil 101 ”” is configured to receive a communications signal (e.g., an electric current) and generate the magnetic field based onthe received communications signal. In some embodiments, the incoming communications signal is amplified prior to being directed to the voice coil 101””.

[0063] In some embodiments, the communications signal transmitted to the voice coil 101 ”” may be summed with an ambient noise signal prior to being transmitted to the voice coil 101””. For example, the earcup 12’ may include an external microphone connected thereto and configured to convert noise ambient to the earcup to an ambient noise signal. The ambient noise signal may be summed with the communications signal and transmitted to voice coil 101”” such that a user may hear their surroundings while also receiving communications. In some embodiments, the earcup 12’ may require power to generate the ambient noise signal. In instances where there is no power directly transmitted to the earcup 12’ in relation to generating the ambient noise signal, the earcup 12’ may be configured to receive just the communications signal. Such instances may be referred to as operating in a failsafe state. In the failsafe state, the communications signal may be routed directly to the electromagnetic voice coil 101”” and / or to a speaker embedded in the earcup 12’ via a failsafe communication pathway such that earcup 12’ may be operable for radio communications. In some instances, in the failsafe state, the communications signal is routed directly to a speaker embedded in the earcup 12’ such that sound is generated by the earcup 12’ instead of the earplug 14’. In other instances, in the failsafe state, the incoming communications signal is routed to the electromagnetic voice coil 101”” to generate sound at the earplug 14’.

[0064] In some embodiments, the voice coil 101”” is configured to generate a time-varying magnetic field. The voice coil 101”” may be selectively operated to generate a magnetic field at predetermined times, having predetermined strength and / or directed toward or away from the earplug 14’. For example, the wireless communications assembly 10’ may include a controller (not shown) configured to regulate one or more of: 1) when a current is supplied to the voice coil, 2) the amount of current that is supplied to the voice coil 101””, and / or 3) the direction of the current supplied to the voice coil 101””. The earplug 14’ may be configured to be coupled to a user’s ear and generate sound based on the magnetic field generated by the electromagnetic voice coil 101””. For example, the earplug 14’ may be configured to generate sound based on a gradient of the magnetic field (e.g., the spatial rate of change in the strength of the magnetic field) generated by the electromagnetic voice coil 101””. In some embodiments, the earplug 14’ and earcup 12’ are freely movable relative to one another. For example, the earplug 14’ may not be mechanically coupled to the earcup 12’. In some embodiments, the earplug 14’ and earcup 12’ may not directly contact one another and / or be directly connected to one another.

[0065] Referring to Figs. 12-13, the earplug 14’ may include an earshell 20’. The diaphragm 102”” may be coupled to the earshell 20’ and the receiver magnet 104”” may be coupled to the diaphragm 102””. In some embodiments, the diaphragm 102”” is fixedly coupled to the earshell 20’. The earshell 20’ may at least partially enclose the diaphragm 102”” and receiver magnet 104””. The earshell 20’ may define an acoustic channel 22’ for the transmission of sound generated by the earplug 14’. The diaphragm 102”” may be positioned within the acoustic channel 22’ and fixedly coupled thereto. For example, a periphery of the diaphragm 102”” may abut an inner sidewall of the acoustic channel 22’ and be fixedly coupled thereto. The diaphragm 102”” may be acoustically coupled to the acoustic channel 22’ such that sound generated by the diaphragm 102”” may be transmitted through the acoustic channel 22’ and to a user.

[0066] In some embodiments, the earshell 20’ is configured to direct sound generated by the diaphragm directly into a user’s ear canal. For example, the earshell 20’ may define an eartip 24’ configured to be inserted into the ear canal of a user. The eartip 24’ may be acoustically coupled to the acoustic channel 22’ such that sound may travel through the acoustic channel 22’ and out of the eartip 24’ into a user’s ear canal. For example, the acoustic channel 22’ may include a diaphragm channel 22a’ that tapers to an eartip channel 22b’, which extends through the eartip 24’. The diaphragm channel 22a’ may have a diameter that is greater than the eartip channel 22b’. In some embodiments, the diaphragm 102”” and receiver magnet 104”” are positioned within the diaphragm channel 22a’. In some embodiments, the eartip 24’ is configured to detachably receive a comfort tip to improve the comfort to a user wearing the eartip 24’. For example, there may be a plurality of different deformable comfort tips (e.g., single-flange rubber, foam, and / or custom-fit earplugs) that may be detachably coupled to the eartip 24’. In some embodiments, the earplug 14’ is waterproof. For example, the earshell 20’ may be configured to prevent water from entering into the earshell 20’ and / or into the acoustic channel 22’. In some embodiments, there is a waterproof membrane lining an inner surface of the earshell 20’ and configured to prevent water, or other liquids, from entering into the earplug 14’.

[0067] Referring to Figs. 11 and 13, the electroacoustic transducer 100”” may include the voice coil 101””, the diaphragm 102””, and the receiver magnet 104””. The receiver magnet 104”” may be configured to cause the diaphragm 102”” to generate sound in response to a magnetic field (e.g., the gradient of a magnetic field) generated by the voice coil 101 ””. The receiver magnet 104”” may be coupled to the diaphragm 102”” such that the receiver magnet 104”” may cause the diaphragm 102”” to deflect toward and / or away from the voice coil 101”” and / or earcup 12’ in response to the magnetic field gradient generated by the voice coil 101”” . For example, the receivermagnet 104”” may be fixedly coupled to the diaphragm 102”” and may be biased toward or away from the voice coil 101”” based on the direction of the magnetic field gradient generated by the voice coil 101 ””. In some embodiments, the earplug 14’ includes a magnetic shielding structure configured to reshape the magnetic field proximate to the receiver magnet 104””. For example, the earplug 14’ may include a shielding structure comprised of a material having a high magnetic permeability (e.g., a mu-metal, high purity iron, ferrite) to locally reshape the magnetic field generated by the voice coil 101”” around the receiver magnet 104””. In this manner, the magnetic field gradient proximate to the receiver magnet 104”” may be increased thereby increasing the sound output by the earplug 14’. In some embodiments, the receiver magnet 104”” is a permanent magnet. In some embodiments, the receiver magnet 104”” is a rare earth magnet. In some embodiments, the receiver magnet 104”” is a neodymium magnet.

[0068] The diaphragm 102”” may be comprised, at least partially, of a deformable material such that it may be deflected, by the receiver magnet 104””, toward or away from the earcup 12’ with the receiver magnet 104””. In some embodiments, the diaphragm 102”” may be elastically deformed by the receiver magnet 104”” such that, when the receiver magnet 104”” is not biased by an external force (e.g., a magnetic field gradient), the diaphragm 102”” may return to an undeflected state (as illustrated in Fig. 13). As the diaphragm 102”” deflects toward and / or away from the earcup 12’, the diaphragm 102”” may generate vibrations in the air contained within the acoustic channel 22’ thereby producing sound. In some embodiments, the periphery of the diaphragm 102”” may remain generally fixed relative to the acoustic channel 22’ while a central portion of the diaphragm 102””, where the receiver magnet 104”” is positioned, deflects relative to the earshell 20’ toward and / or away from the earcup 12’. In this manner, the electromagnetic voice coil 101”” may be configured to cause the diaphragm 102”” to selectively generate sounds that are transmitted to a user’s ear canal when the user is wearing the earcup 12’ and earplug 14’ without requiring a hard-wired connection between the earcup 12’ and earplug 14’.

[0069] In some embodiments, the earplug 14’ may not include an electromagnet. For example, there may be no electromagnet directly connected to the earshell 20’ and / or enclosed at least partially therein. The electromagnet used to bias the receiver magnet 104”” may be included in the earcup 12’. For example, and as discussed above, the electromagnetic voice coil 101”” may be embedded within the earcup 12’ and configured to generate a magnetic field thereby selectively biasing the receiver magnet 104”” toward and / or away from the earcup 12’. In some embodiments, the earplug 14’ may not include any electrical components directly coupled to and / or included therewith. For example, the earplug 14’ may be devoid of any components or mechanisms requiringan electrical current to operate. In some embodiments, the earplug 14’ is configured to generate sound without receiving an electrical current. By providing an earplug 14’ that does not include any electrical components, the earplug 14’ of the present disclosure may be less prone to damage caused by intrusion of water and / or other liquids within the earshell 20’.

[0070] In some embodiments, by not including an electromagnet embedded within the earplug 14’ or directly connected thereto, the dimensions and / or weight of the earplug 14’ may be reduced. For example, the size and / or weight of the earshell 20’ may be minimized. In some embodiments, the earshell 20’ may have a maximum height H of between about 10 mm to about 20 mm. In some embodiments, the maximum height H is between about 10 mm to about 15 mm. In some embodiments, the maximum height H of the earshell 20’ is less than or equal to 12 mm. In some embodiments, the maximum height of the earshell is less than about 15 mm. By minimizing the overall size and / or weight of the earplug 14’, the comfort to a user wearing the earplug 14’ may be improved. Additionally, by minimizing the overall size of the earplug 14’, the risk of the earplug 14’ contacting the earcup 12’ may be reduced when a user moves the earcup 12’ relative to their head (e.g., adjusting the position of the earcup 12’, taking the earcup 12’ off, putting the earcup 12’ on). In some embodiments, the earshell 20’ is sized to not extend beyond a plane defined by the outer ear of the user when worn. For example, the earshell 20’ may be sized to not protrude beyond the outermost edge of a user’s ear when worn.

[0071] Referring to Fig. 14, in some embodiments, the receiver magnet 104”” is sandwiched between opposing layers of the diaphragm 102””. In this manner, the receiver magnet 104”” may be embedded within the diaphragm 102”” and may be fixedly coupled thereto. The diaphragm 102”” may include a retaining wall 105”” defining an inner surface abutting the receiver magnet 104””. In some embodiments, the retaining wall 105”” is formed between the opposing layers of the diaphragm 102””. The retaining wall 105”” may be configured to fix the position and / or orientation of the receiver magnet 104”” relative to the diaphragm 102””.

[0072] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes could be made to the exemplary embodiments shown and described above without departing from the broad inventive concepts thereof. It is to be understood that the embodiments and claims disclosed herein are not limited in their application to the details of construction and arrangement of the components set forth in the description and illustrated in the drawings. Rather, the description and the drawings provide examples of the embodiments envisioned. The embodiments and claims disclosed herein are further capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways.

[0073] Specific features of the exemplary embodiments may or may not be part of the claimed invention and various features of the disclosed embodiments may be combined. Unless specifically set forth herein, the terms “a,” “an” and “the” are not limited to one element but instead should be read as meaning “at least one.” Finally, unless specifically set forth herein, a disclosed or claimed method should not be limited to the performance of its steps in the order written, and one skilled in the art can readily appreciate that the steps may be performed in any practical order.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An electroacoustic transducer comprising: a diaphragm; a voice coil configured to generate a magnetic field in response to an electrical signal; a receiver magnet rotatable relative to the diaphragm about a pivot axis, the receiver magnet configured to pivot about the pivot axis in response to the magnetic field generated by the voice coil; and a lever arm coupled to an end of the receiver magnet and rotatably fixed to the receiver magnet, the lever arm coupling the receiver magnet to the diaphragm, wherein rotation of the lever arm about the pivot axis causes the diaphragm to vibrate and produce sound waves.

2. The electroacoustic transducer of claim 1 further comprising: a linkage member coupling the lever arm to the diaphragm.

3. The electroacoustic transducer of claim 2, wherein the diaphragm extends circumferentially around a central axis and the linkage member intersects the central axis of the diaphragm.

4. The electroacoustic transducer of claim 3, wherein a magnetic axis of the receiver magnet is generally perpendicular to the central axis of the diaphragm when the diaphragm is in a resting state.

5. The electroacoustic transducer of claim 3, wherein the pivot axis is generally perpendicular to the central axis of the diaphragm.

6. The electroacoustic transducer of claim 1 further comprising: a housing defining an acoustic channel and an acoustic port configured to be inserted into an ear canal of a user, wherein the receiver magnet is coupled to the housing and exterior to the acoustic channel, and wherein the diaphragm is positioned within the housing.

7. The electroacoustic transducer of claim 6, wherein the diaphragm is positioned within the acoustic channel.

8. The electroacoustic transducer of claim 1, wherein the receiver magnet is a permanent magnet.

9. The electroacoustic transducer of claim 1, wherein a magnetic axis of the receiver magnet is generally perpendicular to the pivot axis.

10. The electroacoustic transducer of claim 1, wherein the receiver magnet does not directly contact the diaphragm.

11. A wireless communications device comprising: a communication earcup configured to be placed over an ear of a user, the communications earcup including an electromagnetic voice coil; and an earplug configured to be inserted, at least partially into the ear canal of the user, the earplug comprising: an earshell defining an acoustic channel and an eartip configured to be inserted into the ear canal of a user; a diaphragm positioned within the earshell and extending circumferentially around a central axis;a receiver magnet coupled to the earshell and rotatable relative to the earshell about a pivot axis, the receiver magnet configured to rotate relative to the earshell in response to a magnetic field generated by a voice coil embedded within the communication earcup; and a lever arm coupled to an end of the receiver magnet and rotatably fixed to the receiver magnet, the lever arm coupling the receiver magnet to the diaphragm.

12. The wireless communications device of claim 11, wherein the earplug and the communication earcup are not directly connected to one another.

13. The wireless communications device of claim 11, wherein the earplug is freely movable relative to the communication earcup.

14. The wireless communications device of claim 11, wherein the earplug does not include an electromagnet.

15. The wireless communications device of claim 11, wherein the communication earcup is a powered earcup.

16. The wireless communications device of claim 11, wherein the receiver magnet is configured to cause the diaphragm to deflect toward and away from the eartip in response to a torque applied on the receiver magnet via a magnetic field gradient generated by the electromagnetic voice coil of the communication ear cup.

17. The wireless communications device of claim 11, wherein the pivot axis is generally perpendicular to the central axis of the diaphragm.

18. An electroacoustic transducer comprising: a diaphragm;a lever arm rotatable relative to the diaphragm about a pivot axis and coupled to the diaphragm; a permanent receiver magnet fixed in position relative to the pivot axis; and an electromagnetic voice coil configured to generate a magnetic field in response to an electrical signal; wherein the electromagnetic voice coil is fixedly coupled to the lever arm and configured to cause the lever arm to pivot about the pivot axis in response to the magnetic field generated by the electromagnetic voice coil interacting with a magnetic field of the permanent receiver magnet, and wherein rotation of the lever arm about the pivot axis causes the diaphragm to vibrate and produce sound waves.

19. An electroacoustic transducer comprising: a diaphragm configured to vibrate in response to sound waves; a lever arm coupled to the diaphragm and rotatable relative to the diaphragm about a pivot axis in response to vibrations of the diaphragm; a permanent receiver magnet generating a magnetic field and fixed in position relative to the pivot axis; and an electromagnetic voice coil fixedly coupled to the lever arm and positioned within the magnetic field of the permanent receiver magnet, wherein rotation of the lever arm causes the electromagnetic voice coil to rotate relative to the permanent receiver magnet and generate an electric audio signal.

20. An electroacoustic transducer comprising: a housing including an internal cavity in fluid communication with an acoustic port; a diaphragm coupled to the housing and positioned within the internal cavity, the diaphragm being rotatable relative to the housing about a pivot axis; a permanent magnet fixedly coupled to the housing; andan electromagnetic voice coil fixedly coupled to the diaphragm and rotatable relative to the housing with the diaphragm, the electromagnetic voice coil configured to generate a magnetic field in response to an electrical signal, wherein generation of the magnetic field via the electromagnetic voice coil causes the diaphragm to rotate about the pivot axis and produce sound waves.

21. An electroacoustic transducer comprising: a voice coil configured to generate a magnetic field in response to an electrical signal; a diaphragm; and a receiver magnet mounted directly to the diaphragm and configured to cause the diaphragm to deflect toward and away from the voice coil in response to the magnetic field generated by the voice coil;22. The electroacoustic transducer of claim 21, wherein the voice coil is embedded within a communication earcup and the diaphragm is positioned within an acoustic channel of an earshell that is not directly connected to the communication earcup.

23. The electroacoustic transducer of claim 22, wherein the acoustic channel includes a diaphragm channel that tapers to an eartip channel extending through an eartip of the earshell, the diaphragm and receiver magnet being positioned within the diaphragm channel.

24. The electroacoustic transducer of claim 22, wherein the earplug is freely movable relative to the communication ear cup.

25. The electroacoustic transducer of claim 22, wherein no electromagnet is positioned within or directly coupled to the earplug.

26. The electroacoustic transducer of claim 21, wherein the receiver magnet is sandwiched between opposing layers of the diaphragm.

27. The electroacoustic transducer of claim 21, wherein the diaphragm includes a retaining wall defining an inner surface abutting the receiver magnet.

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