Ear-Wearable Removal Handle With Integrated Charging Contacts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional removal handles for ear-wearable devices, such as hearing aids, are limited by space constraints, causing discomfort and limiting design options, and charging contacts on the faceplate complicate charging and increase device size, making reliable travel charging difficult.
Innovation Solution
A multi-function removal handle with integrated electrical contacts and a substrate that serves as a user-actuatable touch sensor and charge contacts, allowing for enhanced functionality and self-orientation in charging units, while also serving as a radiating element for antennas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If charging contacts are placed on the faceplate, then charging functionality is provided, but device size increases and charging becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the charging contacts with the removal handle assembly, combining two previously separate components (charging contacts on faceplate and removal handle) into a single integrated structure. This eliminates the need for separate charging contact components on the faceplate, thereby reducing overall device size and simplifying the charging mechanism while maintaining full charging functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The removal handle assembly is transformed into a multi-functional component that simultaneously serves as a removal handle, charging contact interface, and antenna radiating element. This universal design allows the same structure to perform multiple functions (device removal, charging, and wireless communication), eliminating the need for dedicated separate components and reducing device complexity.
2Volume of moving object
If removal handle is made compact, then space constraints are satisfied, but functionality is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The compact removal handle is designed as a multi-functional component that integrates charging contacts and antenna functionality. This allows the small handle structure to provide multiple functions (removal, charging, and wireless communication) without requiring additional space, thereby maintaining compact size while enhancing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines charging contacts and antenna elements within the removal handle assembly, merging functions that would traditionally require separate components. This integration enables the handle to remain compact while providing enhanced functionality, as the same physical space serves multiple purposes.
3Ease of operation
If electrical contacts are integrated in removal handle, then charging and operation are simplified, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating charging contacts into the removal handle assembly, the patent simplifies the charging operation interface for the user. Although manufacturing complexity increases due to the integrated design, the overall system becomes more user-friendly and easier to operate, as charging and device removal are combined into a single simple interaction.
Data Source
AI summary
An ear-wearable electronic device comprises a shell and a faceplate connected to the shell. Electronic circuitry and a power source are respectively disposed in the shell. A removal handle includes a proximal end connected to the faceplate. First and second electrical conductors extend along the removal handle and comprise first and second proximal ends coupled to the electronic circuitry. An electrical contact module is disposed at a distal end of the removal handle. The electrical contact module comprises a substrate. A first electrical contact is mounted on, or supported by, the substrate and coupled to a first distal end of the first electrical conductor. A second electrical contact is mounted on, or supported by, the substrate and coupled to a second distal end of the second electrical conductor.