Hearing Aid Holder for Face Mask Ear Loops
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing face masks interfere with hearing aids and other audio devices, causing discomfort and improper positioning due to ear straps that can dislodge or inhibit the engagement of these devices.
Innovation Solution
A face mask system with a hearing aid holder that includes a pocket or magnetic attachment to securely hold hearing aids behind the ear, allowing for proper positioning and use alongside the mask, and an audio device holder that can detachably couple to the ear loop for easy retention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional ear straps are used to hold the mask, then the mask can be securely positioned on the face, but the ear straps interfere with hearing aid engagement and positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The ear strap is divided into separate functional segments: a mask attachment portion and a hearing aid holder portion. This segmentation allows the mask strap to independently secure the mask while the hearing aid holder portion provides a dedicated structure for hearing aid engagement, eliminating the interference between these two functions.
Solution Approach 2:
A hearing aid holder component acts as an intermediary element between the ear strap and the hearing aid. This holder provides a dedicated engagement structure that mediates the interaction between the mask strap and hearing aid, allowing both to coexist without interference.
2Reliability
If ear straps are positioned around the ear to hold the mask, then the mask remains secure, but the hearing aid cable crosses and interferes with the ear straps
Solution Approach 1:
The hearing aid holder extends the ear strap structure into a third dimension by creating a behind-the-ear configuration. This dimensional change allows the hearing aid cable to route behind the ear along with the strap, separating it from the front-of-ear cable interference zone and eliminating crossings.
3Reliability
If the hearing aid holder is permanently attached to the ear loop, then the hearing aid is securely held, but the holder cannot be removed when the mask is not needed
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the hearing aid holder and ear loop is made dynamic rather than fixed. The holder can be attached to the ear loop when mask wear is needed for secure hearing aid retention, and detached when the mask is removed, providing adaptability to different usage conditions.
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 face mask system effectively accommodates hearing aids and audio devices, preventing dislodging and ensuring comfortable wear by securely attaching them to the mask, maintaining proper engagement and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The metal element can comprise a magnet configured to hold the hearing aid by magnetically attaching to a corresponding metal element supported by the hearing aid.
Data Source
AI summary
Face masks and attachments to accommodate hearing aids are provided herein. The face masks include a mask body, ear loops and a hearing aid holder to removably hold a hearing aid. In some configurations, a hearing aid holder which can be detachably attached to a mask is provided.