Audio Wearable Seal Testing With Real-Time Fit Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing audio playback devices lack quantifiable measures for users to balance comfort and performance, as selecting accessories based on comfort often results in underperformance due to inadequate seal quality between the device and the ear.
Innovation Solution
A wearable device with integrated speakers and microphones provides real-time feedback on seal quality, using internal microphones to measure audio data and process it to determine seal quality, which is then communicated to the user through visual or audio responses, allowing adjustment for optimal fit and performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a loose fit is chosen to avoid pressure feelings, then comfort is improved, but audio performance deteriorates due to inadequate seal quality
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses an internal microphone to capture audio data from the ear canal, processes this data to determine seal quality metrics, and provides real-time feedback to the user through visual or audio indicators. This feedback loop enables users to adjust their fit to achieve both comfort and optimal audio performance, resolving the contradiction between loose fit comfort and sealed fit performance.
2Ease of operation
If accessories are selected based on comfort level, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision of the seal is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system measures actual seal quality using audio data from the internal microphone and provides feedback indicating whether the current fit achieves the desired seal quality. This allows users to select accessories based on both comfort and measured performance, rather than relying solely on subjective comfort preferences.
3Measurement precision
If real-time seal quality measurement is implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The internal microphone serves multiple functions: it captures audio data for seal quality measurement, and can also be used for active noise cancellation and audio playback. By reusing existing components for multiple purposes, the system achieves precise seal measurement without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own speaker and microphone to perform self-diagnosis of seal quality, eliminating the need for external testing equipment. The speaker plays test tones and the internal microphone captures the resulting audio data, allowing the device to autonomously measure its own seal quality.
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
Enables users to select the best fitting coupling elements by providing dynamic feedback on seal quality, improving audio performance and noise cancellation by ensuring a robust seal that withstands jaw movement and exercise.
Implementation Method 1
playing, via a speaker on the wearable device, an audio signal
Implementation Method 2
measuring, using a microphone on the wearable device, audio data associated with the audio signal
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides processes, methods, systems, and devices for providing a feedback of a wearable device to a user. The feedback may indicate a level of seal, fitness, or compatibility between the wearable device and the user. For example, the feedback provides an exact measurement and a quantified report regarding how well a seal is created when the user puts on the wearable device that dictates the wearable device's audio playback performance experienced by the user. This allows the user to identify, in addition to the comfort level, a best adjustment or selection of components (e.g., tips, inserts, cups, or the like) of the wearable device to deliver the best audio performance achievable by the wearable device. The wearable device may include ear buds, headphones, headsets, or any audio device physically contacting the user.