Earpiece With Flanged Insert For Ear Canal Sound Attenuation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sound modification devices, such as over ear and in ear solutions, often suffer from bulkiness, discomfort, poor fit, and inadequate sound reduction, failing to effectively attenuate ambient noise.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising an elongated earpiece with a handle and insert flanges designed for partial insertion into the ear canal, featuring a tapered stem with flanges and a stop flange for optimal fit and sound attenuation, along with a handle for ergonomic grip and ease of insertion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If over ear solutions are used, then sound reduction is achieved, but the device requires the user to tolerate unwanted bulk
Solution Approach 1:
The earpiece is segmented into multiple functional components: a distal insert portion for sound occlusion, a curved stem for anatomical fitting, and a proximal handle for user manipulation. This segmentation allows the sound-blocking function to be concentrated in the minimal necessary volume within the ear canal, eliminating the need for bulky over-ear structures.
2Volume of moving object
If in ear solutions are used, then bulk is reduced, but the device may be uncomfortable, poorly fitted and/or fail to provide desired reduction in sound
Solution Approach 1:
The insert portion features locally optimized characteristics including a tapered geometry that matches the ear canal's natural contour, and a flanged distal end that creates an effective seal at the canal's widest point. This local quality optimization ensures both comfort and effective sound reduction without requiring the entire device to be bulky.
Solution Approach 2:
The stem is curved to follow the natural anatomy of the ear canal, transitioning smoothly from the insert portion to the handle. This curvature ensures proper positioning and sealing within the canal while maintaining comfort during extended wear, resolving the contradiction between miniaturization and effectiveness.
3Volume of moving object
If in ear solutions are used, then bulk is reduced, but the device may be poorly fitted
Solution Approach 1:
The earpiece incorporates adjustable parameters including the curvature of the stem and the dimensions of the flanged insert. These parameters can be modified to accommodate variations in ear canal anatomy across different users, ensuring proper fit and sound occlusion effectiveness while maintaining a compact form factor.
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 device provides effective sound reduction with improved comfort and fit, capable of reducing ambient noise while allowing for optional sound production, such as music or communication, through its ergonomic design and sound occlusion mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
A flanged insert may be configured to occlude a subject's ear canal
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates, according to some embodiments, to devices, systems, and methods for modifying received and/or perceived sound. For example, a device for altering sound received at a subject's ear may comprise an elongated earpiece having a proximal portion and a distal portion and defining a longitudinal axis (e.g., together defining a longitudinal axis). A proximal portion may comprise an insert configured for at least partial insertion in the canal of the subject's ear. A distal end may comprise a handle configured to guide insertion of the insert in the subject's ear canal.