Angled Stem Hearing Protector for Inadvertent Contact Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional earplugs with exposed stems and cords are prone to inadvertent contact, leading to reduced sound attenuation and discomfort due to accidental dislodgement or exposure to external noise.
Innovation Solution
A hearing protector with a stem that diverges from the sound attenuating element at an angle of 110° to 140°, forming a handle and incorporating a cord retention aperture, which minimizes exposure and incidental contact by positioning the stem and cord in the natural creases of the ear and directing the cord downward.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the stem extends collinearly from the sound attenuating element, then the stem is easily accessible as a handle for insertion and removal, but the stem is exposed to inadvertent contact that may dislodge the earplug or cause discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The stem is configured with an asymmetric angular orientation (110° to 140°) relative to the longitudinal axis of the sound attenuating element, rather than extending collinearly. This asymmetric positioning removes the stem from the direct path of potential inadvertent contact while preserving its function as a handle for intentional insertion and removal operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The stem is repositioned from a one-dimensional collinear extension to a two-dimensional angular configuration. By changing the spatial dimension and orientation of the stem, it achieves a position that is both accessible for operation and protected from harmful inadvertent contact in the forward direction.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the stem is positioned to minimize exposure, then inadvertent contact is reduced, but the stem may become less accessible as a handle
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric angular positioning (110° to 140°) creates an optimal balance where the stem remains prominently positioned for easy grasping during insertion and removal, while simultaneously being angled away from the direction of potential inadvertent contact during normal wear.
Solution Approach 2:
By changing the angular parameter of the stem orientation to a specific range (110° to 140°), the design optimizes both accessibility and protection. This parameter adjustment ensures the stem remains easily accessible for intended operations while minimizing exposure to harmful inadvertent contact.
3Ease of operation
If the cord extends outwardly from the earplug, then it is easily accessible for attachment and detachment, but the cord and stem are more vulnerable to unintentional tugging or tangling
Solution Approach 1:
The cord aperture is positioned at an angular orientation on the stem, creating an asymmetric cord exit path. This asymmetric configuration allows the cord to be easily attached and detached while directing it away from areas prone to tugging and tangling during normal activities.
Solution Approach 2:
The angled stem configuration acts as an intermediary that redirects the cord's path. By positioning the cord aperture at an angle on the stem, the design mediates between the need for easy cord access and the need to protect the cord from unintentional tugging and tangling.
Data Source
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AI summary
A hearing protection device (250) is provided including a sound attenuating element (52) and a stem (252) extending from the sound attenuating element, wherein the stem comprises multiple curved segments.