Angled Earbud Receiver for Stable Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Earbuds, especially wireless models like Apple AirPods, tend to fall out during physical activities due to instability and comfort issues, leading to loss and discomfort, necessitating an improved retention system.
Innovation Solution
An ear frame system with an earbud receiver that fits over the ear, featuring a bore with a concave arcuate surface and an angle of intersection with the ear frame plane to secure the earbud stem via a friction fit, ensuring retention without pushing the earbud out, and made from molded silicone with a specific durometer for flexibility and support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If users push earbuds further in their ear to prevent falling out, then retention is improved, but comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The earbud system is segmented into two functional parts: the earbud itself and the separate ear frame with receiver. This allows the earbud to be retained by the ear frame structure rather than being pushed deep into the ear canal, resolving the contradiction between retention and comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution moves from one-dimensional retention (pushing along the ear canal axis) to three-dimensional retention using the ear frame that engages with multiple surfaces of the ear (concha, antihelix, tragus). The ear frame plane and receiver orientation create a multi-dimensional retention system that prevents falling out without requiring deep insertion.
2Ease of operation
If earbuds are made wireless to improve convenience, then ease of operation is improved, but stability and retention deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The ear frame acts as an intermediary device between the wireless earbud and the user's ear. It provides the mechanical retention and stability that wireless earbuds lack, while preserving the wireless convenience. The ear frame with its specific geometry and friction-fit receiver mediates between the need for wireless operation and the need for stable retention.
3Ease of operation
If the earbud receiver axis is perpendicular to the ear frame plane for easy alignment, then ease of operation is improved, but retention capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The earbud receiver axis is deliberately angled at theta (10-20 degrees) relative to the ear frame plane, creating an asymmetric configuration. This asymmetric angle optimizes the friction fit between the stem and receiver bore, improving retention capability while the ear frame's overall symmetric C-shape maintains ease of alignment with the ear.
Solution Approach 2:
The angle theta between the earbud receiver axis and ear frame plane is optimized within a specific range (10-20 degrees). This parameter change from the conventional perpendicular orientation creates optimal friction fit geometry, balancing retention capability with alignment ease. The specific angle range is determined to maximize the friction component while maintaining practical alignment.
4Ease of operation
If the bore has a smooth surface for easy insertion, then ease of operation is improved, but friction fit and retention deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The bore surface has locally varied properties: it is smooth in regions to facilitate easy insertion and removal, while having increased friction characteristics in specific zones to provide retention. The arcuate cross-section and angled orientation create local friction zones without requiring a completely rough surface, resolving the contradiction between easy insertion and secure retention.
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
The system effectively retains earbuds in place during activities, preventing loss and discomfort by providing a secure friction fit while allowing easy removal, and is adaptable to various ear sizes and shapes.
Implementation Method 1
the ear frame comprises molded silicone and the earbud receiver comprises molded silicone rubber
Implementation Method 2
The earbud receiver defines a bore extending along an earbud receiver axis between a first opening at a first end of the earbud receiver and a second opening at a second end of the receiver. The bore defines a concave arcuate surface on an inner surface thereof.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for positioning an earbud relative to the ear of a person includes an ear frame that extends between a first end and a second end. The ear frame extends in an ear frame plane defined by the first end, the second end, and a top portion. The system further includes an earbud receiver configured to receive a stem of an earbud. The earbud receiver is connected to the ear frame. The earbud receiver defines a bore extending along an earbud receiver axis between a first opening at a first end of the earbud receiver and a second opening at a second end of the receiver. The earbud receiver axis intersects the ear frame plane an angle theta selected to retain the position the earbud relative to the ear of the person. In some embodiments, theta is selected between 5 degrees and 30 degrees.