Hearing Device Earpiece Cable Exit Angle Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Earpieces for hearing devices often require complex and costly customization for optimal wearing comfort, which is not universally applicable and can be cumbersome for extended use.
Innovation Solution
The design of an earpiece with a specific geometry, including an ear canal part and an intermediate part, where the cable exits at a controlled angle to reduce the need for customization and enhance comfort, incorporating a microphone and protection element for improved two-way communication and reduced signal processing complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If earpieces are customized to fit individual users, then wearing comfort is improved, but the process becomes costly and tedious
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing an earpiece with a standardized geometry and cable exit angle (5-45 degrees) that can be universally fitted to different users without customization. The intermediate part serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, positions the cable at the optimal angle, and enables universal compatibility across different earpiece models, eliminating the need for individual customization while maintaining comfort.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the cable exits at various angles, then adaptability to different users is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by specifying an optimal cable exit angle range (5-45 degrees) that balances adaptability and simplicity. This angular parameter optimization allows the cable to naturally accommodate different ear positions and user anatomies without requiring multiple cable routing configurations or complex adjustment mechanisms, thus maintaining device simplicity while achieving versatility.
3Volume of moving object
If the earpiece size is reduced, then wearing comfort is improved, but microphone signal processing becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the earpiece into distinct functional modules: the ear canal part for sound delivery, the intermediate part for structural support and cable routing, and the cable assembly for signal transmission. This modular segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, enabling compact overall size while maintaining adequate space within each module for necessary components like microphones and their processing circuits.
Data Source
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AI summary
An earpiece for a hearing device, includes: an earpiece housing comprising an ear canal part and an intermediate part, wherein the ear canal part extends along an ear canal axis of the earpiece, with an ear canal plane of the earpiece being perpendicular to the ear canal axis, the ear canal part having a first end, the intermediate part having a first end and a second end and extending along an intermediate axis; and a cable with a first end connected to the intermediate part, the cable exiting the intermediate part along a cable exit axis, the cable exit axis forming a first exit angle with respect to the ear canal plane, wherein the first exit angle is in a range from 5 to 45 degrees.