Ear Holding Device With Flexible S-Shaped Connecting Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ear-holding devices for sports and other activities suffer from limited stability during head movements and require individual adaptation to each ear, often causing uncomfortable pressure, especially in children, due to the use of spring-loaded mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A flexible S-shaped connecting element between an end piece and a terminal holder, with specific circular arcs and sectors, provides secure attachment to both ears without excessive pressure, allowing for comfortable long-term wear and adaptation to various ear anatomies, while a storage box maintains the device's shape and readiness for use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If spring-loaded mechanisms are used to prevent slippage of the holding device, then stability during head movements is improved, but unpleasant pressure is exerted on individual anatomical structures of the ear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the mechanical parameters of the holding device by replacing spring-loaded mechanisms with a flexible membrane structure. This membrane can deform elastically under acceleration loads to maintain stability while distributing pressure over a larger area, thereby reducing unpleasant pressure on specific ear structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a flexible membrane as the core component of the holding device. This thin film structure can adapt to the ear's anatomy and deform under acceleration forces to prevent slippage, while its flexibility ensures comfortable wear by avoiding rigid pressure points on anatomical structures.
2Reliability
If holding devices are designed with rigid structures to maintain stability, then position stability is improved, but the device cannot be comfortably worn for long periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible membrane instead of rigid structures to create the holding device. This membrane maintains position stability through its elastic properties while allowing comfortable deformation during prolonged wear, enabling the device to be worn for extended periods without discomfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from static rigid structures to a dynamic flexible membrane that can adapt its shape in response to movement and pressure. This dynamic behavior allows the device to maintain stability during activity while remaining comfortable during extended wear periods.
3Reliability
If spring elements are used to prevent slippage, then stability under acceleration loads is improved, but the spring load causes discomfort particularly in children
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the force characteristics by replacing spring elements with a flexible membrane that provides gradual, distributed pressure rather than concentrated spring force. This membrane can withstand acceleration loads while distributing the force comfortably across the ear surface, making it suitable for children.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a flexible membrane that can deform to accommodate the ear's shape and distribute forces evenly. This eliminates the concentrated spring load that causes discomfort in children while maintaining the necessary stability under acceleration conditions.
4Reliability
If holding devices are designed to fit individual ears, then stability and comfort are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal holding device based on a flexible membrane that can adapt to different ear shapes and sizes. The membrane's elasticity allows a single design to fit various users comfortably and stably without requiring individual customization, thereby reducing device complexity and manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible membrane serves as a universal component that naturally adapts to different ear anatomies through elastic deformation. This eliminates the need for complex individualized fitting processes while maintaining stable and comfortable wear across different users.
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 flexible design ensures stable attachment during head movements and long-term wear without pressure points, enabling universal fit without individual ear adaptation, and the storage box prevents deformation, ensuring the device remains functional and ready for use.
Implementation Method 1
A flexible, free-form curving connecting element is arranged between the end piece and the holder
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a holding device for attachment to the ear of a user, wherein a flexible connecting element arranged between an end piece and a terminal holder ensures that, even when subjected to relatively pronounced loads caused by external effects, such as for example a change in position of the head, the holding device is securely held on the ear without exerting unpleasant pressure on individual anatomical structures of the ear. By virtue of a flexible basic structure, the holding device according to the invention enables use on both ears of a user, without the holding device having to be adapted individually to each ear by a change in structure. In addition, a box suitable for storing the holding device ensures safe storage of the holding device when not in use, serves to keep the holding device ready for immediate use, and prevents deformation of the holding device caused by improper storage.