Acoustically Split Headphone Cushions for Resonance Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Closed-back over-ear headphones suffer from unwanted resonances and sound quality degradation due to standing waves, which are difficult to equalize across anatomical differences, and existing solutions either compromise sound isolation or sensitivity.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates acoustically split earcup cushions with a first portion that is acoustically open and a second portion that is acoustically sealed, using an acoustic seal to separate the two portions, allowing sound waves to propagate through the open portion while preventing them from entering the sealed portion, thereby reducing resonances and maintaining sensitivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If closed-back earcups are used to provide sound isolation, then sound isolation is improved, but unwanted resonances and standing waves develop inside the front volume
Solution Approach 1:
The earcup cushion is divided into multiple acoustic compartments (first volume, second volume, third volume) separated by acoustic seals. This segmentation allows different portions of the cushion to serve different acoustic functions, enabling resonances in one compartment to be dampened without affecting sound isolation in other compartments.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the earcup cushion are given different acoustic properties. The first portion (first volume) is configured to dampen resonances, while the second portion (second volume) maintains sound isolation. This local differentiation allows each region to optimize for its specific function without compromising the other.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If the front volume of the earcup is reduced to dampen resonances, then unwanted resonances are reduced, but sensitivity of the headphones decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The cushion volume is segmented into multiple acoustic compartments, allowing the total cushion volume to remain large (maintaining sensitivity) while specific compartments are configured to dampen resonances. The first volume can be optimized for resonance control while the second volume contributes to overall sensitivity without generating harmful resonances.
3Adaptability or versatility
If digital signal processors or graphic equalizers are used to equalize resonance, then frequency response can be adjusted, but the solution is complex and difficult to equalize across anatomical differences
Solution Approach 1:
The earcup cushion is designed with passive acoustic dampening features built into its structure, allowing it to self-regulate resonances without requiring external digital signal processing. The acoustic seals and volume configurations automatically dampen unwanted frequencies through passive acoustic principles, eliminating the need for complex DSP or EQ systems.
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 configuration effectively dampens unwanted resonances while minimizing sensitivity loss, providing improved sound quality and isolation by optimizing the front volume of the earcup assembly.
Implementation Method 1
The second portion is acoustically sealed from the first portion with an acoustic seal
Implementation Method 2
At least one of the first or second portions may include a foam material configured to provide dampening
Data Source
AI summary
Headphones are disclosed that include a first earcup assembly and a second earcup assembly. The headphones include a headband extending between the first and second earcup assemblies. The headband includes opposing ends attached to the first and second earcup assemblies, respectively. The first earcup assembly includes a first cushion coupled to an earcup. The first cushion includes a first portion that is acoustically open. The first cushion also includes a second portion acoustically sealed from the first portion.