Acoustic Module Magnetic Retention for Eyeglass Temples
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing modular audio systems with magnetic retention for head-worn peripherals suffer from inadequate vertical retention force, prone to decoupling during adjustments or drops, and insufficient horizontal retention due to the predominant horizontal magnetic forces and ineffective protrusions and recesses interaction.
Innovation Solution
The acoustic module housing is designed to magnetically couple with head-worn peripherals, providing orthogonal magnetic retention forces in both horizontal and vertical directions through a combination of permanent magnets and high magnetic permeability materials, along with hook-shaped recesses and protrusions to inhibit rotation and lateral movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If magnets are arranged to couple predominantly in a horizontal plane, then horizontal retention is provided, but vertical retention force is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from single-plane (horizontal) magnetic retention to multi-dimensional retention by incorporating magnets that provide forces in both horizontal and vertical directions. This dimensional expansion allows the acoustic module to resist decoupling forces from multiple axes, resolving the contradiction between horizontal retention and vertical stability.
2Manufacturing precision
If the acoustic module is designed with protrusions and recesses for alignment, then positioning is improved, but retention force is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines alignment features (protrusions and recesses) with retention functionality by integrating magnets into the same structural elements. The protrusions and recesses now serve dual purposes: precise positioning and magnetic retention, eliminating the need for separate retention mechanisms and providing both alignment precision and retention force.
3Ease of operation
If the acoustic module sits below the temple edge, then ease of attachment is improved, but susceptibility to decoupling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite retention system combining magnetic forces with mechanical interlocking features. The acoustic module housing incorporates both magnetic elements and structural protrusions that engage with recesses in the temple, creating a composite attachment mechanism that maintains ease of attachment while significantly improving resistance to decoupling forces.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design significantly enhances the stability of the acoustic module on head-worn devices by providing robust retention in multiple axes, reducing the likelihood of decoupling during use or impact, and ensuring secure engagement without compromising ease of attachment and detachment.
Implementation Method 1
The acoustic module housing is arranged to magnetically couple to the head-worn peripheral device such that, in a resting, coupled position, respective components of magnetic retention force are provided in at least two axial directions that are orthogonal to each other
Data Source
AI summary
A modular audio system which includes an acoustic module (104) configured to be removably engaged with a head-worn peripheral device. In some examples, the head-worn peripheral device is a pair of eyeglass frames and the acoustic module is configured to removably secure to a socket arranged on the inside face of the temples of the eyeglasses. The acoustic module may be configured to magnetically engage with the peripheral device such that, in a resting, coupled position, respective components of magnetic retention force are provided in at least two axial directions that are orthogonal to each other i.e., a first component of magnetic retention force is provided in a first (horizontal) axial direction and a second component of magnetic retention force is provided in a second (vertical) axial direction.