Dynamic Seal Testing for Earbuds with Real-Time Audio Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing audio playback devices, such as earbuds and headphones, 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 by measuring audio data, allowing users to adjust the fit and optimize comfort and performance through dynamic feedback mechanisms.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If users select accessories based on comfort level, then comfort is improved, but audio performance deteriorates due to inadequate seal quality

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovecomfortVSAvoidaudio performance

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses a microphone to capture audio signals from the speaker and processes these signals to generate real-time feedback about seal quality. The processor analyzes the audio data to determine fit quality metrics, which are then communicated to the user through visual or audible indicators, enabling users to adjust their fit to achieve optimal audio performance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces subjective mechanical assessment of fit quality with an acoustic measurement system. Instead of relying on user sensation or manual inspection, the system uses audio signal processing to objectively measure seal quality, substituting mechanical/physical assessment with acoustic field analysis.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If users select accessories based on comfort level, then comfort is improved, but seal quality deteriorates leading to underperformance

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovecomfortVSAvoidseal quality

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides real-time feedback about seal quality by processing audio signals captured from the speaker. The processor generates fit quality indicators that inform users about the adequacy of their seal, enabling them to adjust accessories or positioning to achieve proper seal quality without compromising comfort.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent substitutes subjective mechanical assessment of seal quality with objective acoustic measurements. The system uses audio signal analysis to quantify seal adequacy, replacing manual or sensory evaluation with precise acoustic field-based measurement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Measurement precision

If real-time feedback is provided while device is moved or audio signal is changed, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseal quality measurementVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors audio signals and provides real-time feedback about seal quality. The processor analyzes audio data dynamically as the device moves or audio signals change, updating fit quality indicators to maintain accurate measurements throughout the listening experience.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses the existing speaker and microphone components for multiple purposes: audio playback, audio signal generation for testing, and seal quality measurement. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated testing hardware, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 continuous visual and audio feedback on seal quality, enhancing audio performance and noise cancellation.

Implementation Method 1

playing, via a speaker on the wearable device, an audio signal

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectroacoustic transduction:

Implementation Method 2

measuring, using a microphone on the wearable device, audio data associated with the audio signal

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAcoustic transduction:

Data Source

PatentUS12363471B2Dynamic seal testing and feedback for audio wearable devices

Publication Date: 2025.07.15 BOSE CORP

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.