Ear Cushion Adapter for Dynamic Audio Equalization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wireless headphones lack the ability to dynamically adjust audio playback settings based on the type of ear cushions used, leading to suboptimal audio experiences for different ear cup types.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a microprocessor and identification components in an ear cushion adapter that determines the type of ear cushion attached and adjusts playback settings such as equalization, bass, and treble levels, enabling customizable audio processing for over-ear or on-ear configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If wireless headphones use fixed audio playback settings, then device complexity is reduced, but audio quality is suboptimal for different ear cushion types

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaudio qualityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic audio playback settings that automatically adjust based on the detected ear cushion type. The system transitions from static, fixed settings to dynamic, adaptive settings by using a microprocessor to detect cushion characteristics and modify audio parameters in real-time, resolving the contradiction between fixed simplicity and optimized quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes audio playback parameters (equalization, bass, treble levels) based on detected ear cushion type. This parameter adaptation allows the same hardware to deliver optimized audio quality for different cushion configurations without requiring multiple fixed-setting devices, thus improving audio quality while maintaining device unity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If wireless headphones incorporate a microprocessor and identification components to detect ear cushion type, then audio playback settings can be customized, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomizable audio processingVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The microprocessor serves multiple functions: it detects ear cushion type through identification components, determines cushion characteristics, and adjusts audio playback settings accordingly. This multi-functionality consolidates what could be separate systems into a single integrated controller, enabling customizable audio processing without proportionally increasing overall device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-configuration by automatically detecting the ear cushion type and adjusting audio settings without user intervention. The microprocessor and identification components work autonomously to adapt the audio output, providing versatility while minimizing the complexity burden on the user experience

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11924598B2Interchangeable ear cushions for headphones
Publication Date: 2024.03.05 MUSIC INC
  • US11924598B2 patent drawing
  • US11924598B2 patent drawing
  • US11924598B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An audio headset may include at least one headset earpiece including a speaker. The audio headset may include a removable ear cushion removably attached to the at least one headset ear piece. The audio headset may be configured to recognize a type of the removable ear cushion.