Earwax removal device for in-ear equipment

Abstract

An earwax removal device for use with an in-ear equipment includes a holding chamber and a pair of cleaning chambers. A holder for a body of the in-ear equipment is provided in the holding chamber. A receptacle is provided in each of the cleaning chambers to receive the in-ear part of the in-ear equipment. A control system is configured to control a fluid management system and a mechanical cleaning system. Fluids from respective compartments can be provided to the cleaning chambers and directed away from the cleaning chambers, with the mechanical cleaning system providing a mechanical cleaning action concurrently with at least one of the cleaning chambers being at least partially filled with the fluids. The earwax removal device may be configured to provide heated airflow to dry the cleaned in-ear equipment. The earwax removal device may be configured to provide UV irradiation for disinfection.

Description

EARWAX REMOVAL DEVICE FOR IN-EAR EQUIPMENTRELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to the Singapore application no. 10202403128X filed October 7, 2024, the contents of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to devices for cleaning in-ear equipment and more particularly to the removal of earwax from in-ear equipment.BACKGROUND

[0003] Hearing aids are essential equipment for individuals with hearing loss. In use, an in-ear part of the hearing aid is lodged in the ear canal. The in-ear part of the hearing aid tends to acquire a buildup of earwax which, in many cases, reduces the sound quality and performance of the hearing aid. In fact, the buildup of earwax is a common cause of poor hearing aid performance.

[0004] Earwax, also known as cerumen, is produced in the ear canal and typically carries dead skin cells and other debris. Earwax comes in different forms. Most individuals have sticky earwax which would tend to adhere itself to the in-ear part of the hearing aid. Sticky earwax can be difficult and tedious to remove, and removal of dried-up earwax is even more challenging. Many individuals find the removal of earwax from the in-ear part of any device, such as earbuds, to be a tedious and difficult task, requiring nimble manipulation with cotton buds and toothpicks.SUMMARY

[0005] In one aspect, the present application discloses an earwax removal device for use with an in-ear equipment includes a holding chamber and a pair of cleaning chambers. The holding chamber has a holder. Each of the cleaning chambers has a receptacle. The earwax removal device includes a control system, a fluid management system, and a mechanical cleaning system. The fluid management system is controllable by the control system to provide fluids fromrespective compartments to the cleaning chambers and to direct the fluids away from the cleaning chambers. The mechanical cleaning system is controllable by the control system to perform a cleaning action concurrently with at least one of the cleaning chambers being at least partially filled with the fluids.

[0006] The mechanical cleaning system may include a nanobubble generator configured to generate nanobubbles in the fluids provided to the cleaning chambers.

[0007] In some embodiments, the mechanical cleaning system may include a bracket and a motor. The pair of cleaning chambers may be supported by the bracket. The motor may be coupled to the bracket. The control system may be configured to enable any one or more of a rotational motion about a longitudinally disposed axis and a translational motion along a laterally disposed axis, in which the laterally disposed axis and the longitudinally disposed axis are perpendicular to one another.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the following figures:

[0009] FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B are perspective views of schematic diagrams of examples of an in-ear equipment 100, such as a hearing aid.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a side view of a schematic diagram of an earwax removal device.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the earwax removal device from a perspective view.

[0012] FIG. 4 is a partially exploded view of the earwax removal device .

[0013] FIG. 5 is another partially exploded view of the earwax removal device.

[0014] FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B schematically illustrate a platform with a holder and a pair of receptacles.

[0015] FIG. 7 shows a cross-section of a cleaning chamber with a receptacle disposed therein.

[0016] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B illustrate the earwax removal device 200 without the platform 310 and part of a main housing.

[0017] FIG. 8C to FIG. 8D are images of a part of fluid management system in the earwax removal device. FIG. 8E and FIG. 8F show embodiments of 3D printed channels serving as a drainage tubing.

[0018] FIG. 9A to FIG. 9C are schematic diagrams of the earwax removal device with various embodiments of a mechanical cleaning system.

[0019] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C are schematic diagrams of the earwax removal device showing fluid flow paths and airflow paths relative to the cleaning chamber.

[0020] FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 are schematic diagrams illustrating an example of the earwax removal device configured to perform a drying process and / or a disinfection process.

[0021] FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B are schematic side views showing placement of the ultraviolet device according to various embodiments.

[0022] FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B are exploded side views showing the various components in a prototype of the earwax removal device.

[0023] FIG. 15A to FIG. 15D show an example of a compact version of the earwax removal device according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 16A to FIG. 16D show an example of the earwax removal device of FIG. 15A.

[0025] FIG. 17A and FIG. 17B show the earwax removal device with an exemplary in-ear equipment disposed therein.

[0026] FIG. 17C is a top view of the earwax removal device of FIG. 17A.

[0027] FIG. 17D and FIG. 17E illustrate an embodiment of the earwax removal device with a disposable or replaceable cartridge.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] The following detailed description is made with reference to the accompanying drawings, showing details and embodiments of the present disclosure for the purposes of illustration and to aid understanding, and not to be limiting. Features that are described in the context of an embodiment may correspondingly be applicable to the same or similar features in the other embodiments, even if not explicitly described in these other embodiments. Additions and / or combinations and / or alternatives as described for a feature in thecontext of an embodiment may correspondingly be applicable to the same or similar feature in the other embodiments.

[0029] As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0030] The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

[0031] As used herein, the singular ‘a’ and ‘an’ may be construed as including the plural “one or more” unless apparent from the context to be otherwise.

[0032] The terms "about" and "approximately" as applied to a stated numeric value encompasses the exact value and a reasonable variance as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, and the terms “generally” and “substantially” are to be understood in a comparable manner, unless otherwise specified.

[0033] Some processes may be described in terms of steps merely to aid understanding and / or for convenient reference. The delineation between one step and another step may be described as such merely for convenient reference in the present disclosure. It will be understood that in actual implementation there may not be a clear division or transition from one step to another subsequent step. There may be a certain amount of overlap among the steps and / or more than one step may occur or be performed concurrently in time, etc.

[0034] As used herein, the term “concurrent”, or “concurrently”, is used loosely to refer to two or more occurrences (or events) that at least partially overlap in time. The occurrences may or may not start at the same time instant and / or end at the same time instant.

[0035] Terms such as “first” and “second” are used in the description and claims only for the sake of brevity and clarity, and do not necessarily imply a priority or order, unless required by the context.

[0036] FIG. 1 A is a perspective view of a schematic diagram of an example of an in-ear equipment 100, such as a hearing aid 101. The hearing aid 101 includes a body 120 connected to an in-ear part 110 via a connection 115. The body 120 includes a body housing 121 in which is disposed various components 123configured to provide reception, amplification, and / or transmission of sound or auditory signals. The components 123 include electronic devices, such as but not limited to a microchip 124, a microphone, an amplifier, a wireless communications module (e.g., Bluetooth transmitter / receiver, etc.), and circuitry. A battery 125 may be disposed in the body housing 121 . A switch 126 may be provided at an external surface of the housing 121. The switch 126 may be configured to enable user control of an operation of the hearing aid 101 , including but not limited to, switching the hearing aid on or off, adjusting the volume or amplification, switching a noise cancellation function on or off, etc. The in-ear part 110 of the hearing aid 101 may include a dome 111 (also referred to as a receiver in some examples). Some domes 111 may define one or more holes or vents 113. The hearing aid 101 may include a connection 115 coupling the in-ear part 110 with the body 120. The connection 115 may be relatively elongate and curved to enable hooking over one ear.

[0037] It is conceivable that hearing aid 101 may be configured similarly to other in-ear equipment 100, such as an earbud 102, as illustrated schematically in FIG. 1 B. The in-ear equipment 100 includes the body 120 connected to the in-ear part 110 via the connection 115. The body 120 includes the body housing 121 in which is disposed various components 123 configured to provide reception, amplification, and / or transmission of sound or auditory signals. The components 123 include electronic devices, such as but not limited to a microchip 124, a microphone, an amplifier, a wireless communications module (e.g., Bluetooth transmitter / receiver, etc.), and circuitry. A battery 125 may be disposed in the body housing 121 . A switch 126 may be provided at an external surface of the housing 121. The switch 126 may be configured to enable control of an operation of the hearing aid 101 , including but not limited to, switching the hearing aid on or off, adjusting the volume or amplification, switching a noise cancellation function on or off, etc. The switch 126 may be configured as a touch-sensitive switch. The in-ear part 110 of the in-ear equipment 100 may include a dome 111 (also referred to as a receiver in some examples). Some domes 111 may define one or more holes or vents 113. In some examples, the vents 113 may be a mesh 114. The mesh 114 may be a protective grille that allows sound to pass through while preventing dust or earwax from entering the in-ear part 110.

[0038] The hearing aid 101 may include a connection 115 coupling the in-ear part 110 with the body 120. In use, the dome 111 is lodged at the ear canal, with the mesh 114 oriented toward the inner ear, and with the body 120 disposed outside the ear canal.

[0039] FIG. 2 is a side view of a schematic diagram of an earwax removal device 200 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 3 shows the earwax removal device 200 from a perspective view.

[0040] The earwax removal device 200 includes a tank 220. In some embodiments, the tank 220 may be one single compartment. In some other embodiments, the tank 220 may include more than one compartment. For example, the tank 220 may include two compartments, which may be referred to herein respectively as a first tank 221 and a second tank 222, for the sake of brevity. For example, the first tank 221 may serve as a reservoir of a cleaning solution (e.g., a cleaning solution tank) and the second tank 222 may serve as a reservoir of clean water (e.g., a clean water tank).

[0041] The first tank 221 and the second tank 223 may be fluidically isolated from one another. The first tank 221 may be provided with a first tank lid 223, and the second tank 222 may be provided with a second tank lid 224. The first tank lid 223 and the second tank lid 224 may be sealable closures. In some examples, the compartments may be filled with the respective liquids and the entire earwax removal device 200 may be transported or carried about for use on-the-go.

[0042] It is also envisioned, in some examples, to provide, a re-fill or pre-filled cartridge of water and / or cleaning solution for the respective compartments. The cartridge may be conveniently disposed inside the compartment and opened to permit liquid contents of the cartridge to be used by the earwax removal device 200. In some examples, the tank 220 may receive two compartments, each of the two compartments being a removable and optionally disposable or recycleable prefilled cartridge. In some examples, the first tank 221 may be a pre-filled cartridge that can be received by the tank 220 and removed when empty. In some examples, the second tank 222 may be a pre-filled cartridge that can be received by the tank 220 and removed when empty. In some examples, one of two compartments (e.g., the first tank 221 may be removable) with the other of the two compartments (e.g., thesecond tank 222) being configured to be not removable relative to the tank 220. In some examples, both the first tank 221 and the second tank 222 may be removable relative to the tank 220.

[0043] A holding chamber 300 is disposed above the cleaning chambers 400. A drying module 240 may be disposed adjacent or below the holding chamber 300. A disinfection module 250 may be configured to disinfect the holding chamber 300 and articles disposed in the holding chamber 300.

[0044] The earwax removal device 200 includes electronic circuitry or an electrical control system (generally referred to as a control system 210) to enable controllable operations of the drying module 240 and / or the disinfection module 250. The control system 210 may be configured to operate the fluid management system. The earwax removal device 200 further includes a mechanical cleaning system 500 which is configured to be controllable by the control system 210.

[0045] FIG. 4 shows the earwax removal device 200 partially exploded along a longitudinally disposed axis 201 to better show the spatial separation between the holding chamber 200 and the cleaning chambers 400. FIG. 5 shows another embodiment of the earwax removal device 200 partially exploded along the longitudinally disposed axis 201. FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 further illustrate various configurations in which the tank 220 may be laterally spaced apart from or separated from both the holding chamber 300 and the cleaning chambers 400 along a second axis 202 that is not parallel to the longitudinally disposed axis 201 .

[0046] Referring to FIG. 3, FIG. 6A, and FIG. 6B, the earwax removal device 200 includes a platform 310 that serves to segregate a "dry zone" from a "wet zone". For example, the platform 310 may generally define a dry zone and a wet zone on either side of the platform 310. The platform 310 may be disposed generally laterally or laterally (e.g., perpendicular relative to the longitudinally disposed axis 201 ), with the dry zone located at an upper side of the platform 310, and the wet zone located at the other side of the platform 310, e.g., at a lower side of the platform 310. The platform 310 and a holding chamber lid 320 may cooperatively define the holding chamber 300, with the holding chamber 300 forming the dry zone on one side of the platform 310. A holder 330 may be disposed in the holding chamber 300.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 6A and FIG. 7, the earwax removal device 200 includes a pair of receptacles 410 extending from the platform 310 into the respective cleaning chamber 400. The interior 440 of each receptacle 410 opens into the holding chamber at a respective first opening 420. The interior of each receptacle 410 opens into the respective cleaning chamber 400 via a respective second opening 430. The receptacle 410 is preferably perforated, e.g., with one or more perforations 450 providing fluid communication between the interior 440 of the receptacle 410 and the cleaning chamber 400. The platform 310 may be described as segregating the holding chamber 300 and the cleaning chambers 400, with the holder 330 being disposed on a side of the platform 310, and an opposing side of the platform 310 extending to form the receptacles 410.

[0048] The holder 330 may provide two holding areas 340, e.g., for receiving a pair of in-ear equipment 100. Each of the holding areas 340 may be dimensioned to receive one body 120 of an in-ear equipment 100 such that the body 120 can be kept dry throughout the earwax removal process. Optionally, the holder 330 may be inclined relative to the platform 310 such that when the body 120 of the in-ear equipment 100 is disposed on the holder 330, the in-ear part 110 may be disposed in the respective receptacle 410, as illustrated in FIG. 6B.

[0049] The receptacle 410 is preferably curved such that the vent 113 or the mesh 114 (of the in-ear part 110 of the in-ear equipment 100) would likely and generally face the second opening 430. In some embodiments, the second opening 430 is defined by a rim disposed on a plane, and the plane is angled at an angle a of about 30 degrees to 45 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis 201. In some embodiments, the second opening 430 may be described as being angled at 30 degrees or approximately 30 degrees relative to a longitudinally disposed axis 201 (e.g., a first axis). In some other embodiments, the second opening 430 may be disposed at an angle in a range from 30 degrees to 45 degrees, relative to the longitudinally disposed axis

[0050] In some other embodiments, the second opening 430 may define a plane, and a normal of the plane may be disposed at an angle relative to a laterally disposed axis 202. In some embodiments, the angle between the normal of the plane and the laterally disposed axis may be in a range from 35 degrees to 45degrees. In some embodiments, the angle between the normal of the plane and the laterally disposed axis may be 30 degrees or approximately 30 degrees. In some other embodiments, a raised and / or inclined holder 330 is optional. In some embodiments, the holding areas 340 may be any part of the platform 310. In some embodiments, the holding areas may be on the same plane as the platform 310. In some embodiments, there may not be a distinct boundary between the holding area 340 and the rest of the platform 310. In some embodiments, the body 120 of the in- ear equipment 100 may be disposed on the platform 310 with the in-ear part 110 being oriented towards one of the cleaning chambers 400. In some embodiments, the in-ear equipment 100 may be disposed on the holding areas 340 such that the in-ear part 110 can be positioned directly "above" one or more brushes of the mechanical ciearning system 500. In some embodiments, the platform 310 itself may be shaped with surface configurations to receive the body 120 of the in-ear equipment 100.

[0051] The holder 330 and the receptacles 410 are longitudinally spaced apart. In other words, the holder 330 and the receptacles 410 extend in opposing directions from the platform 310. The holder 330 is disposed at a higher elevation than the receptacles 410, relative to the platform 310. In assembly with the other components of the earwax removal device, the holder 330 and the receptacles 410 are disposed in different chambers. The holder 330 is further elevated relative to the platform 310 to enable the body of the in-ear equipment 100 to be placed or positioned generally in a central region of the holding chamber 300. The receptacles extend away curvilinearly or at an angle, relative to the platform 310, to place or position the in-ear part 110 of the in-ear equipment 100 generally in a central region of the respective cleaning chamber 400. The in-ear part, as supported in the receptacle 410, has its mesh 114 or vents 113 out of alignment with the first opening of the receptacle 410. Streams of water or cleaning solution may be safely directed toward these areas with little risk of the water or the cleaning solution being sprayed or jetted into the holding chamber 300. Although the electronic components of the in-ear equipment 100 are encased, the encasement may not be waterproof. The proposed earwax removal device enables even such in-ear equipment to be cleaned with minimal risk of damage from water and other chemicals.

[0052] In some embodiments, the receptacle 410 is configured with a curved or angled profile. For ease of reference, a curvilinear centerline 203 may be defined in the center of the space 440 inside the receptacle 410, with the curvilinear centerline 203 extending between the first opening 420 and the second opening 430. The receptacle 410 may be configured with a tapering physical profile (or an increasingly smaller cross-section) along the centerline, from the first opening 420 towards the second opening 430. In other words, the receptacle 410 may have a tapering physical profile extending from the first opening 420 to the second opening 430 along the curvilinear centerline 203. The receptacle 410 may be described as terminating at a slanted second opening that is positioned in the respective cleaning chamber.

[0053] Preferably, the in-ear part 110 tends to be disposed in a loose fit relative to the receptacle 410. The tapering physical profile enables the receptacle 410 to receive in-ear parts 110 of various sizes and shapes. The tapering physical profile of the receptable 410 tends to guide the in-ear part 110 to rest in the receptable 410 in an orientation what facilitates cleaning. The orientation that facilitates cleaning is one that exposes the more difficult-to-clean surfaces or parts to mechanical cleaning and / or to direct contact with the fluids in the cleaning chamber 400.

[0054] The receptacle 410 is configured with cutouts or elongate perforations 450 that advantageously increase the flexibility of the receptacle 410. The receptacle 410 is preferably at least slightly flexible to buffer excessive forces from the mechanical cleaning. Preferably (although not limited to such), the perforations may be elongated and extend along part of the receptacle body (or receptacle wall), generally along a curvilinear axis 203 extending from the first opening 420 to the second opening 430. The elongate perforations 450 also allow fluids to contact and flow along at least some part of the in-ear part 110.

[0055] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B illustrate the earwax removal device 200 without the platform 310 and part of a main housing 228, so as to better show the two cleaning chambers 400. The tank 220 is positioned above and laterally spaced apart from the cleaning chambers 400 to make use of gravitational potential energy to supply water and / or cleaning solution to the cleaning chambers 400.

[0056] In the following, for the sake of brevity, the term "fluids" as used herein may be understood to refer to a liquid (e.g., water, cleaning solution, etc.) as well as particulates or solid matter (e.g., earwax removed in the process of cleaning the in-ear equipment 100).

[0057] Also shown is a fluid management system 490 to supply fluids from the selected compartments of the tank 220 to each of the cleaning chambers 400, and to drain fluids from the cleaning chambers 400. The fluid management system 490 may include channels 470 in which fluids may be directionally flowed with the aid of pumps 460, and in some embodiments, a combination of pumps 460 and valves 465. In preferred embodiments, the fluid management system 490 is configured to operate without the use of valves in the delivery of fluids to the cleaning chambers 400. In some embodiments, the delivery of fluids to the cleaning chambers 400 may be assisted by one or more pumps 460. It was found that such a configuration can reduce or eliminate the presence of unwanted bubbles in the fluids. The fluid management system may include channels 470 leading from both of the cleaning chambers 400 to a waste tank 229. One or more valves 465 may be provided to facilitate drainage of fluids from the cleaning chambers 400. The waste tank 229 may be disposed below the cleaning chambers 400. The waste tank 229 may be configured to be detachable from a main housing of the earwax removal device 200.

[0058] The two cleaning chambers 400 are fluidically isolated from one another. More specifically, the cleaning chambers are fluidically isolated from one another when the earwax removal device is in operation. For example, the cleaning chambers 400 may include a first cleaning chamber 401 and a second cleaning chamber 402, in which the first cleaning chamber 401 and the second cleaning chamber 402 are separate receptacles. The fluid management system 490 is configured such that fluids delivered from the tank 220 to any one of the cleaning chambers 400 without passing through any other of the cleaning chambers 400. The fluid management system 490 is configured such that fluids delivered out from any one of the cleaning chambers 400 are not directed to or through any other of the cleaning chambers 400. In other words, the fluid management system 490 is configured to deliver a cleaning solution to any one of the pair of cleaning chambers 400 without fluidic contribution from another of the pair of cleaning chambers 400.

[0059] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the fluid management system 490 is configured to deliver the cleaning solution to the cleaning chamber 400 via a cleaning solution supply channel 473, through a first fluid inlet 403 at a side wall of the cleaning chamber 400. The fluid management system 490 is configured to deliver water to the cleaning chamber 400 via a water supply channel 474, through a second fluid inlet 404 at the side wall of the cleaning chamber 400. The first fluid inlet 403 and the second opening 430 of the 410 may be aligned to generally oppose one another. The receptacle 310 is configured to orientate the mesh 114 or the vents 113 (of the in-ear equipment 100) towards the second opening 430 of the receptacle 410. The mesh 114 or the vents 113 may then be generally exposed for direct impingement of fluids delivered through the first fluid inlet 403. Optionally, the first fluid inlet 403 may be configured (e.g., to be narrower or smaller cross-sectional area relative to the rest of the channel) to provide a jet effect. In some embodiments, the first fluid inlet 403 is configured to inject fluid (cleaning fluid and / or water) directly at a junction or an interface region where one or more brushes of the mechanical cleaning system 500 would interface or make contact with the in-ear par 110 of the in-ear equipment 100 for efficient cleaning. The cleaning chamber 400 to provide a "cleaning bath" may be optional in these embodiments. For example, the fluid may be injected and / or sprayed onto the in-ear part 110 at a rate that can be drained off by a drainage system (e.g., via the drainage tubing).

[0060] A fluid outlet 405 is provided at a base of the cleaning chamber 400. The base of the cleaning chamber 400 may be sloped toward the fluid outlet 405, with the fluid outlet 405 being defined at the lowest point of the cleaning chamber 400. The fluid outlet 405 is distinct and separate from the first fluid inlet 403 and the second fluid inlet 404. The fluid outlet 405 may be configured with a significantly larger cross-sectional area than any of the fluid inlets 403 / 404.

[0061] The fluid management system 490 is configured to provide the cleaning solution to each of the chambers 400, and subsequently to provide water (preferably distilled or clean water). The fluids as well as any particulates or other matter (including, e.g., earwax dislodged from the in-ear part 110 undergoing thecleaning or earwax removal process) are discharged away from the cleaning chambers 400 via the fluid outlet 405

[0062] FIG. 8C and FIG. 8D are images of parts of a prototype of the proposed earwax removal device 200, built and used in experimental validation tests. The orifice of the fluid outlet 405 is dimensioned to be larger than the first fluid inlet 403 and the second fluid inlet 404. In the example of FIG. 8C, the fluid outlet (orifice) may have a diameter of about 1 .5 millimeters (mm). FIG. 8D is an image of a side view of the prototype in which the channels were in the form of plastic tubing. FIG. 8E and FIG. 8F show embodiments of 3D printed channels serving as a drainage tubing.

[0063] The earwax removal device 200 includes a mechanical cleaning system 500 configured to perform one or more mechanical cleaning actions. The one or more mechanical cleaning actions may be performed if at least one of the cleaning compartments is at least partially filled with fluids, e.g., one or more of a cleaning solution, a rinsing solution, a disinfecting solution, and water. The mechanical cleaning action may be one or more of a rotational motion and a translational motion. The mechanical cleaning action may be implemented with the aid of any one or more actuators such as, but not limited to, a motor-driven impeller, an ultrasonic transducer, a vibratory element, a magnetic stirrer, or a piezoelectric actuator. For the sake of brevity, the following embodiments of the mechanical cleaning system will be described with reference to a motor, but it will be understood to replace the motor with an electrically powered actuator as mentioned.

[0064] FIG. 9A schematically illustrates an embodiment in which a motor 502 is coupled with a disc or a cam interface. As the motor output shaft rotates, the cam interface 512 converts the rotational motion about a laterally disposed axis 202 to a rotational motion of a bracket 514 about a longitudinally disposed axis 201. The first chamber 401 and the second chamber 402 are coupled to the bracket 514 and are rotated along with the bracket 514. The rotational motion of the bracket 514 about the longitudinally disposed axis 201 is preferably an alternately clockwise and anticlockwise rotation. The mechanical cleaning system 500 may be controllable by the control system to perform a mechanical cleaning action concurrently with at least one of the cleaning chambers 400 being at least partially filled with the fluids.

[0065] Alternatively, instead of a clockwise-and-anticlockwise twisting motion, the embodiment of FIG. 9A may be used to illustrate a mechanical cleaning system 500 in which the backet 514 is configured to displace the first cleaning chamber 401 and the second cleaning chamber 402 to-and-fro along the laterally disposed axis 202. The receptacles 410 and their contents can be agitated in this manner to dislodge earwax from the in-ear parts 110. In these embodiments, the platform 310 may be circular in shape (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 6B) to facilitate rotational motion or angular displacements about a longitudinally disposed axis extending through a center of the platform 310.

[0066] FIG. 9B schematically illustrates another embodiment in which the earwax removal device 200 includes a nanobubble generator 504. The nanobubble generator 504 may be operated after a predetermined volume of the cleaning solution (or the water) has been dispensed, with the mesh 114 or the vents 113 (of the in-ear part 110) immersed in the cleaning solution (or the water). The nanobubble generator 504 may be operated to generate nanobubbles which create a turbulent flow around the in-ear parts 110 disposed in the receptacles 410. The perforations 450 of the receptacles 410 provide increased fluid communication. This facilitates the mechanical removal of earwax.

[0067] FIG. 9C schematically illustrates another embodiment of the earwax removal device 200 in which the earwax removal device 200 includes one or more brushes 508 operable by the motor 506. In some embodiments, a brush is disposed at the second opening 430 and / or perforations of the receptacle 410. The receptacle may be sized and shaped as the embodiments described above such that the in-ear part 110 when disposed in the receptacle would tend to expose the mesh 114 or the vents 113 to the action by the brushes 508. The brushes 508 may be configured with a rotary action. The brush 508 may be configured to brush outwardly relative to the corresponding receptacle 410. In some embodiments, the brushes 508 may be angled relative to the brush tips of the brushes 508, to enable the brush tips to dislodge earwax that may be found in the vents 113 or the rough surface of the mesh 114, as well as in crevices and corners of the in-ear part 110.

[0068] The motor 506 may be configured to enable any one or more of a rotational motion (of the one or more brushes or of the cleaning chambers) about alongitudinally disposed axis and a translational motion along a laterally disposed axis. The pumps 460 may be configured to operate simultaneously with or in response to the movement of the one or more brushes. In some embodiments, the pumps may be configured to direct fluid at a region (also referred to as a junction or an interface) where the brush (or more specifically the bristles of a brush) makes a sweeping contact with the in-ear part 110 of the in-ear equipment 100.

[0069] FIG. 10B and FIG. 10C respectively illustrate cross-sections at planes A- A and B-B shown in FIG. 10A. The cleaning chamber 400 may be provided with an overflow port 480, e.g., when the level of the fluids rise above a predetermined maximum fluid level (e.g., which may be demarcated by a line 506). In this example, the first fluid inlet 403 for providing the cleaning solution to the cleaning chamber 400 is hidden in FIG. 10B. The second fluid inlet 404 is disposed to flush the in-ear part along its length to flush any remnant cleaning solution and / or particulates downward and out of the cleaning chamber 400 via the fluid outlet 405.

[0070] A motor-operable blower or fan 610 may be provided, as shown in FIG. 10C. The fan 610 is configured to direct a stream of air via an air duct 620 into the cleaning chamber 400. The stream of air or airflow is provided to facilitate drying of the in-ear part that is disposed in the receptacle 410. The groove-shaped perforations 450 and the relatively larger second opening 430 enable a flow of air across surfaces of the in-ear part. The fan 610 may be further configured to deliver a heated air flow to further facilitate drying of the cleaned in-ear part in the receptacle 410.

[0071] FIG. 11 illustrates the air duct 620 from a side perspective view, showing the air duct configured to feed streams of air into each of the two cleaning chambers 400. The temperature of the air flow may be sensed by a thermistor 632. The thermistor may be coupled with a heating element (also referred to as a resistor heater or heating resistor) 634. The sensed temperature may be used to control the heating element 634 to provide heating to aid drying and not to overheat components of the earwax removal device 200.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, an ultraviolet C (UVC) emitter, UVC device, or UV device 250 may be disposed on an underside 321 of the holding chamber lid 320. The UV device 250 may be configured to be in an operating stateonly if (e.g., responsive to) both of the following conditions being true: (i) the earwax removal device 200 is operating in a drying state and (ii) the holding chamber lid 320 is closed. The UV device 250 may be configured to be switched off in response to the holding chamber lid 320 being opened, unlocked, or released from the rest of the holding chamber 300. The UV device 250 may be operated for a predetermined duration of time unless interrupted by the holding chamber lid 320 being opened or unlocked.

[0073] FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B are schematic diagrams illustrating possible placement of the UV device 250 relative to the holding chamber lid 320 and the holder 330. FIG. 13A shows the UV device 250 disposed at an underside 321 of the holding chamber lid 320. FIG. 13B shows the UV device 250 disposed at a sidewall 322 of the holding chamber lid 320. The UV device 250 may be positioned to enable UV irradiation of the body 120 of the in-ear equipment 100, when the in- ear equipment 100 is disposed on the holder 330. The UV device 250 may be configured to be automatically switched off or in a non-operating state so long as the holding chamber lid 320 is opened, e.g., to prevent accidental or unintentional UV irradiation.

[0074] In FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B, an example of the earwax removal device 200 is exploded longitudinally to illustrate the various components in a prototype of the present disclosure. The top-down assembly is configured for efficient manufacturing. Advantageously, the layered configuration enables segregation of a safe zone or a dry zone (e.g., the holding chamber) for holding the electronic part of the in-ear equipment from a wet zone (e.g., the cleaning chamber). The in-ear part can thus be safely subjected to fluid movement(e.g., movement of fluid in proximity to the in- ear part, the fluid movement being assisted by agitation and / or shaking, or more generally, vibrational motion) and / or brushing. The earwax removal device is thus shown to enable the in-ear part to be simultaneously cleaned by mechanical cleaning and chemical cleaning (e.g., using a cleaning solution and / or water).

[0075] The earwax removal device 200 includes an electrical control system 210 that may include a controller, a memory, and electronic circuitry. The electrical control system 210 may be embodied in the form of a printed circuit board or a microchip.

[0076] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the controller may be configured to execute computer-readable instructions stored in the memory and perform a method of earwax removal from an in-ear equipment.

[0077] A user may fill the cleaning solution tank with a cleaning solution. The user may fill the water tank with water. In some examples, the user may pour the cleaning solution and the water into the two compartments of the tank. The compartments may indicate a maximum fluid level line and / or a minimum fluid level line. In some embodiments, the user may plug one or more prefilled cartridges into the tank, in which each of the one or more cartridges is prefilled with any one of a cleaning solution, a flushing solution, water, distilled water, etc.

[0078] The user may power on the earwax removal device via a USB (universal serial bus) connection to a power outlet or via one or more batteries.

[0079] In some embodiments, the earwax removal device includes a light emitting diode (LED). In some examples, the LED may be a LED ring light. The LED may be switched on in response to the lid of the holding chamber being opened.

[0080] The user may place the in-ear equipment in the earwax removal device 200. The body 120 of the in-ear equipment 100 may be disposed on the holder 330. The in-ear part 110 of the in-ear equipment 100 may be disposed in the respective cleaning chambers 400.

[0081] The user may close the lid 320 of the holding chamber 300. This effectively seals the holding chamber 300. The LED ring light may be configured to switch off in response to the lid 320 of the holding chamber 300 being closed.

[0082] The user may press a start button 212 to initiate a cleaning process. In some embodiments, the earwax removal device 200 may provide a choice of a full cleaning cycle (program) or a drying only cycle (program). The LED ring light may light up for the duration of the cleaning program.

[0083] During execution of a full cleaning cycle, the method may include the earwax removal device 200 or the controller being configured to execute a washing stage of approximately 30 minutes, followed by a drying stage of approximately two hours. If the user opens the lid 320 at any time during the washing stage or the drying stage, the controller may be configured to pause the program in response. The controller may be programmed to carry out the washing stage one or moretimes before the drying stage is executed. The controller may be programmed to execute the washing stage and the drying stage in turn or alternately one after another, for one cycle or multiple cycles.

[0084] The UV irradiation of the body 120 of the in-ear equipment 100 may be carried out concurrently with the drying stage.

[0085] The user may retrieve the in-ear equipment 100 from the earwax removal device 200. When the program is completed, an LED indicator (e.g., the LED ring light) may be configured to turn on in response thereto. The LED indicator may be configured to switch on when the user opens the lid 320 to retrieve the in-ear equipment 100.

[0086] The user may switch off the earwax removal device or unplug the earwax removal device from the power source. For example, the user may decouple or disconnect a charger cable or power cable from the earwax removal device 200.

[0087] The user may get rid of the fluids in the dump tank after the cleaning is completed, or when the fluids in the dump tank has reached a maximum fluid level line.

[0088] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the controller may be configured to execute computer-readable instructions stored in the memory and perform a method of earwax removal from an in-ear equipment.

[0089] A user may fill the cleaning solution tank with a cleaning solution. The user may fill the water tank with water. In some examples, the user may insert a cartridge of cleaning solution or a cartridge of water into the respective compartment of the tank.

[0090] The earwax removal device 200 may be configured to be powered via a USB-C cable. Alternatively, the earwax removal device 200 may be configured to powered by a lithium polymer (Lipo) battery or other types of batteries. The ear wax removal device 200 may provide a dedicated power "ON" / "OFF" button.

[0091] The user may power on the earwax removal device via a USB (universal serial bus) connection to a power outlet or via one or more batteries.

[0092] In some embodiments, the earwax removal device includes a light emitting diode (LED). In some examples, the LED may be a LED ring light. The LED may be switched on in response to the lid of the holding chamber being opened.

[0093] The user may place the in-ear equipment in the earwax removal device 200. The body 120 of the in-ear equipment 100 may be disposed on the holder 330. The in-ear part 110 of the in-ear equipment 100 may be disposed in the respective cleaning chambers 400.

[0094] The user may close the lid 320 of the holding chamber 300. This effectively seals the holding chamber 300. The LED ring light may be configured to switch off in response to the lid 320 of the holding chamber 300 being closed.

[0095] The user may press a start button 212 to initiate a cleaning process. In some embodiments, the earwax removal device 200 may provide a choice of a full cleaning cycle (program) or a drying only cycle (program). The LED ring light may light up for the duration of the cleaning program.

[0096] During execution of a full cleaning cycle, the method may include the earwax removal device 200 or the controller being configured to execute a washing stage of approximately 30 minutes, followed by a drying stage of approximately two hours. If the user opens the lid 320 at any time during the washing stage or the drying stage, the controller may be configured to pause the program in response. The controller may be programmed to carry out the washing stage one or more times before the drying stage is executed. The controller may be programmed to execute the washing stage and the drying stage in turn or alternately one after another, for one cycle or multiple cycles.

[0097] The UV irradiation of the body 120 of the in-ear equipment 100 may be carried out concurrently with the drying stage.

[0098] The user may retrieve the in-ear equipment 100 from the earwax removal device 200. When the program is completed, an LED indicator (e.g., the LED ring light) may be configured to turn on in response thereto. The LED indicator may be configured to switch on when the user opens the lid 320 to retrieve the in-ear equipment 100.

[0099] The earwax removal device 200 may be configured with a dedicated "ON" / "OFF" button for use in switching off the earwax removal device. The LED indicator may be configured to provide an indication when the battery level is low.

[0100] The user may get rid of the fluids in the dump tank after the cleaning is completed, or when the fluids in the dump tank has reached a maximum fluid levelline. In some examples, it is envisioned that a flushing solution (different from water or the cleaning solution) may be used for flushing the fluids management system and the cleaning chambers 400, etc.

[0101] According to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, earwax removal equipment includes the controller which is configured to execute computer- readable instructions stored in the memory to perform a method of earwax removal from an in-ear equipment.

[0102] A user may fill the cleaning solution tank with a cleaning solution. The user may fill the water tank with water. In some examples, the user may insert a cartridge of cleaning solution or a cartridge of water into the respective compartment of the tank.

[0103] The earwax removal device 200 may be configured to be powered via a USB-C cable. Alternatively, the earwax removal device 200 may be configured to powered by a lithium polymer (Lipo) battery or other types of batteries. The ear wax removal device 200 may provide a dedicated power "ON" / "OFF" button.

[0104] The user may power on the earwax removal device via a USB (universal serial bus) connection to a power outlet or via one or more batteries.

[0105] In some embodiments, the earwax removal device includes a light emitting diode (LED). In some examples, the LED may be a LED ring light. The LED may be switched on in response to the lid of the holding chamber being opened.

[0106] The user may place the in-ear equipment in the earwax removal device 200. The body 120 of the in-ear equipment 100 may be disposed on the holder 330. The in-ear part 110 of the in-ear equipment 100 may be disposed in the respective cleaning chambers 400.

[0107] The user may close the lid 320 of the holding chamber 300. This effectively seals the holding chamber 300. The LED ring light may be configured to switch off in response to the lid 320 of the holding chamber 300 being closed.

[0108] The user may press a start button 212 to initiate a cleaning process. In some embodiments, the earwax removal device 200 may provide a choice of various preset cleaning programs, including but not limited to any one or more of the following: a quick wash program, a quick dry program, a deep clean program, aself-cleaning program etc. An LED indicator (e.g., an LED ring light) may light up for the duration of the selected program.

[0109] During execution of a full cleaning cycle, the method may include the earwax removal device 200 or the controller being configured to switch on a duration indicator or a countdown timer according to the selected preset program. The controller may be configured to enable cancellation or change of the selected preset program in mid-cycle. The controller may be configured to enable an autostart or a memory mode in response to the earwax removal device being low on power or when the battery is running low in charge.

[0110] The user may retrieve the in-ear equipment 100 from the earwax removal device 200. When the program is completed, an LED indicator (e.g., the LED ring light) may be configured to turn on in response thereto. The LED indicator may be configured to switch on when the user opens the lid 320 to retrieve the in-ear equipment 100. The earwax removal device 200 may be configured with multiple modes of operation. For example, in a full cycle mode of operation, the earwax removal device 200 may be configured to enable a cleaning operation (e.g., cleaning of earwax using a cleaning solution), a drying operation (e.g., drying of the in-ear equipment 100, and a disinfection operation. The multiple modes may be operational sequentially or simultaneously. This does not preclude the earwax removal device 200 from being configured to offer a "partial" cycle mode of operation. For example, the earwax removal device 200 may be configured to operate only the drying operation and the disinfection operation for situations where the user selected to skip the cleaning operation.

[0111] The earwax removal device 200 may be configured with a dedicated "ON" / "OFF" button for use in switching off the earwax removal device. The LED indicator may be configured to provide an indication when the battery level is low.

[0112] The user may get rid of the fluids in the dump tank after the cleaning is completed, or when the fluids in the dump tank has reached a maximum fluid level line. In some examples, it is envisioned that a flushing solution (different from water or the cleaning solution) may be used for flushing the fluids management system and the cleaning chambers 400, etc.

[0113] In accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure, the controller is configured to execute computer-readable instructions stored in the memory, in which the execution of the computer-readable instructions performs a method including:

[0114] (i) the controller controlling the pumps in the fluid management system to deliver the cleaning solution to the cleaning chambers;

[0115] (ii) the controller controlling the motor (or the nanobubble generator) to execute the mechanical cleaning;

[0116] (iii) the controller controlling the pumps and valves of the fluid management system to drain the cleaning solution from the cleaning chambers to dump the used cleaning solution in the dump tank;

[0117] (iv) the controller controlling the pumps of the fluid management system to deliver water to the cleaning chambers; and

[0118] (v) the controller controlling the pumps and valves of the fluid management system to drain the fluids (including any particulates) from the cleaning chambers to the dump tank.

[0119] The controller may be configured to turn on the UVC device to irradiate the holding chamber and its contents, to disinfect the contents.

[0120] The controller may be configured to provide a stream of airflow to dry the in-ear equipment. The controller may be configured to heat the airflow before the air flow is delivered to the cleaning chamber.

[0121] FIG. 15A to FIG. 15D show respectively a top view, a perspective view, a front view, and a side view of another embodiment of the earwax removal device 200. As shown, the earwax removal device can be configured as a compact device, suitable for use on-the-go. It is envisioned that the earwax removal device 200 can be pocket size.

[0122] FIG. 16A to FIG. 16D show respectively a top view, a perspective view, a front view, and a side view of the earwax removal device of FIG. 15A, with the lid 223 opened. The earwax removal device can be seen to provide physically separated or physically spaced apart holding chamber 300 and cleaning chambers 400. The lid 223 includes sealing members 230 at an underside of the lid 223. When the lid 223 is closed, the sealing members 230 mate with corresponding ones of thecleaning chambers 400 and provide a sealable engagement with respective cleaning chambers 400.

[0123] The pair of cleaning chambers 400 are fluidically separated from one another, e.g., the first cleaning chamber 401 and the second cleaning chamber 402 are do not share or communicate fluids with one another.

[0124] To further aid understanding (and not to be limiting), FIG. 17A and FIG. 17B illustrate another prototype of the earwax removal device 200 with exemplary in-ear equipment 100 disposed therein ready for earwax removal or cleaning. The cleaning chambers 400 are fluidically isolated from one another. In addition, the cleaning chambers 400 are fluidically isolated from the holding chamber 300.

[0125] Referring to FIG. 17C, the holding chamber 300 and the cleaning chambers 400 are laterally spaced apart (e.g., with a laterally oriented displacement (dt) or being spaced apart along a laterally disposed axis 202). There is provided a physical segregation between a dry zone and a wet zone, so that the in-ear part can be cleaned using wet cleaning methods (e.g., chemical cleaning) without risking damage to the body or the electronics of the in-ear equipment. When the lid 223 is closed and a sealed engagement is formed at each of the sealing members 230, the user can carry the earwax removal device 200 around in a pocket or toss the earwax removal device 200 into a backpack without worrying about leakage or cross-contamination.

[0126] Preferably, the cleaning chambers 400 are each non-aligned with the holding chamber 300 or with a center of the holding chamber 300 (e.g., displacement ds). The non-alignment has been found to naturally position the in- ear equipment and facilitate better cleaning.

[0127] FIG. 17D and FIG. 17E illustrate another aspect of the earwax removal device 200 in which the tank 220 is a cartridge 290 that can be sold separately apart from the rest of the earwax removal device 200. It is envisioned that disposable or interchangeable cartridges 290 may be pre-filled with a cleaning solution and / or water, and open ends (e.g., top end of the cleaning chambers) may be sealed with a foil or a film. To use the earwax removal device, the cartridge may be installed as shown in FIG. 17D and FIG. 17E, e.g., slotted in a longitudinal motion 901 in place. The foil or the film may be removed so that each the cleaning chamber can receivean in-ear part of the in-ear equipment. The body 120 of the in-ear equipment 100 may be disposed in the holding chamber 300. The earwax removal device 200 may be configured to remove earwax from the in-ear equipment by a combination of chemical cleaning and mechanical cleaning (which, in the present disclosure, includes fluid movement resulting from I enabled as part of the mechanical cleaning). For example, mechanical cleaning may be performed by an actuator (e.g., a piezoelectric actuator). The actuator may be provided at the base of the earwax removal device where it would be under the installed cartridge 290. Chemical cleaning may be provided by the cleaning solution and / or water in the cleaning chambers. In some examples, the user may choose to refill the cleaning chambers instead of using pre-filled cartridges.

[0128] In some examples, a cartridge may include a cleaning solution in one cleaning chamber and a rinsing solution (for example but not limited to water) in another cleaning chamber. The user may clean one in-ear part at a time. For example, the in-ear part may be first disposed one of the two cleaning chambers in which is provided the cleaning solution. The in-ear part may than be subjected to mechanical vibration and / or agitation-enabled / assisted fluid movement for a first duration. Thereafter, the user may manually move the in-ear part to the other cleaning chamber in which may be provided the same or a different fluid (e.g., the same cleaning solution, a different rinsing solution, water, a different cleaning solution, etc.) and subjected to mechanical vibration and / or agitation- enabled / assisted fluid movement for a second duration.

[0129] As shown, the earwax removal device may be configured as a layered assembly to facilitate a compact footprint for the product while enabling efficient manufacturing.

[0130] According to various embodiments, an earwax removal device for use with an in-ear equipment includes a holding chamber and a pair of cleaning chambers. The holding chamber has a holder. Each of the cleaning chambers has a receptacle. The earwax removal device includes a control system, a fluid management system, and a mechanical cleaning system. The fluid management system is controllable by the control system to provide fluids from respective compartments to the cleaning chambers and to direct the fluids away from thecleaning chambers. The mechanical cleaning system is controllable by the control system to perform a cleaning action concurrently with at least one of the cleaning chambers being at least partially filled with the fluids.

[0131] The receptacle may have a tapering physical profile extending from a first opening to a second opening along a curvilinear centerline, with the second opening being positioned in the respective cleaning chamber.

[0132] The second opening may define a plane, in which the plane may be angled at an angle in a range from 30 degrees to 45 degrees to a longitudinally disposed axis.

[0133] The receptable may have a plurality of elongate perforations.

[0134] The mechanical cleaning system may include a nanobubble generator configured to generate nanobubbles in the fluids provided to the cleaning chambers.

[0135] In some embodiments, the mechanical cleaning system may include a bracket and a motor. The pair of cleaning chambers may be supported by the bracket. The motor may be coupled to the bracket. The control system may be configured to enable any one or more of a rotational motion about a longitudinally disposed axis and a translational motion along a laterally disposed axis, in which the laterally disposed axis and the longitudinally disposed axis are perpendicular to one another.

[0136] In some embodiments, the mechanical cleaning system may include a bracket, the pair of cleaning chambers being supported by the bracket; and a motor, the motor being coupled to the bracket, in which the bracket is operable by the motor to undergo a vibrational motion and / or to enable fluid movement proximal the pair of cleaning chambers.

[0137] In some embodiments, the mechanical cleaning system includes one or more brushes disposed to access the second openings of the receptacles. In some embodiments, the mechanical cleaning system includes a pair of brushes, each of the brushes being disposed at the respective second opening of the respective receptacle, in which the control system is configured to enable a rotational brushing action by the brushes.

[0138] The cleaning chambers are fluidically isolated from one another when the earwax removal device is in operation.

[0139] The fluid management system may be configured to deliver a cleaning solution to any one of the pair of cleaning chambers without fluidic contribution from another of the pair of cleaning chambers.

[0140] The fluid management system may be configured to deliver water to any one of the pair of cleaning chambers without fluidic contribution from another of the pair of cleaning chambers.

[0141] The earwax removal device may be configured to direct the fluids from any one of the pair of cleaning chambers to a dump tank, without fluidic contribution to another of the pair of cleaning chambers.

[0142] The earwax removal device may further include a fan and an air duct, in which the air duct is disposed to direct a flow of air from the fan to the receptacle.

[0143] The earwax removal device may include a heating element disposed to heat the flow of air before the flow of air is provided to the receptacle.

[0144] The earwax removal device may further include an ultraviolet (UV) device, in which the ultraviolet device is configured to provide UV irradiation in the holding chamber.

[0145] The earwax removal device may further include a platform. The platform may segregate the holding chamber and the cleaning chambers. The holder may be disposed on a side of the platform, and an opposing side of the platform may extend to form a pair of the receptacle.

[0146] All examples described herein, whether of apparatus, methods, materials, or products, are presented for the purpose of illustration and to aid understanding and are not intended to be limiting or exhaustive. Modifications not involving inventive effort may be made by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the claimed invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . An earwax removal device for use with an in-ear equipment, comprising: a holding chamber, the holding chamber having a holder; a pair of cleaning chambers, each of the cleaning chambers having a receptacle; a control system; a fluid management system, the fluid management system being controllable by the control system to provide fluids from respective compartments to the cleaning chambers and to direct the fluids away from the cleaning chambers; and a mechanical cleaning system, wherein the mechanical cleaning system is controllable by the control system to perform a mechanical cleaning action concurrently with at least one of the cleaning chambers being at least partially filled with the fluids.

2. The earwax removal device as recited in claim 1 , wherein the receptacle has a tapering physical profile extending from a first opening to a second opening along a curvilinear centerline, the second opening being positioned in the respective cleaning chamber.

3. The earwax removal device as recited in claim 2, wherein the second opening defines a plane, the plane being angled at an angle in a range from 30 degrees to 45 degrees to a longitudinally disposed axis.

4. The earwax removal device as recited in claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the receptable has a plurality of elongate perforations.

5. The earwax removal device as recited in any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the mechanical cleaning system comprises a nanobubble generator, the nanobubble generator being configured to generate nanobubbles in the fluids provided to the cleaning chambers.

6. The earwax removal device as recited in any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the mechanical cleaning system comprises: a bracket, the pair of cleaning chambers being supported by the bracket; and a motor, the motor being coupled to the bracket, wherein the control system is configured to enable any one or more of a rotational motion about a longitudinally disposed axis and a translational motion along a laterally disposed axis, the laterally disposed axis and the longitudinally disposed axis being perpendicular to one another.

7. The earwax removal device as recited in claim 6, wherein the mechanical cleaning system comprises: a pair of brushes, each of the brushes being disposed at the respective second opening of the respective receptacle, and wherein the control system is configured to enable a rotational brushing action by the brushes.

8. The earwax removal device as recited in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the cleaning chambers are fluidically isolated from one another when the earwax removal device is in operation.

9. The earwax removal device as recited in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the fluid management system is configured to deliver a cleaning solution to any one of the pair of cleaning chambers without fluidic contribution from another of the pair of cleaning chambers.

10. The earwax removal device as recited in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the fluid management system is configured to deliver water to any one of the pair of cleaning chambers without fluidic contribution from another of the pair of cleaning chambers.11 . The earwax removal device as recited in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the fluid management system is configured to direct the fluids from any oneof the pair of cleaning chambers to a dump tank, without fluidic contribution to another of the pair of cleaning chambers.

12. The earwax removal device as recited in any one of claims 1 to 11 , further comprising a fan; and an air duct, the air duct being disposed to direct a flow of air from the fan to the receptacle.

13. The earwax removal device as recited in claim 12, further comprising a heating element, the heating element being disposed to heat the flow of air before the flow of air is provided to the receptacle.1 . The earwax removal device as recited in any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising an ultraviolet (UV) device, the ultraviolet device being configured to provide UV irradiation in the holding chamber.

15. The earwax removal device as recited in any one of claims 1 to 14, further comprising a platform, the platform segregating the holding chamber and the cleaning chambers, wherein the holder is disposed on a side of the platform, and wherein an opposing side of the platform extends to form a pair of the receptacle.

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