Hearing Device Hook Attachment Thread Stopper
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hearing device connections with internal threads and protruding nipples are prone to breaking or over-winding when excessive force is applied, leading to airtight connection failures.
Innovation Solution
A connecting portion with an internal thread and a radially effective stopper portion to prevent over-winding, combined with soundproof sealing surfaces, ensures secure attachment of hooks or acoustic tubes without damaging the hearing device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If an internal thread connection is used to attach the hook or acoustic tube to the hearing device, then the connection provides secure attachment capability, but the thin wall surrounding the internal thread is prone to breaking when excessive force is applied
Solution Approach 1:
The stopper portion is pre-installed on the hearing device housing before the hook or acoustic tube is attached. This preliminary action creates a mechanical limit that prevents the internal thread from being over-wound or damaged during the attachment process, thereby protecting the thin-walled connection structure from breaking under excessive force.
Solution Approach 2:
The stopper portion acts as an intermediary mechanical element between the internal thread and the external force applied during attachment. It provides a controlled stopping point that mediates the force transmission, preventing direct transmission of excessive drawing forces to the fragile internal thread structure.
2Ease of operation
If protruding threads or nipples are used at the connection portion, then the hook or tube can be attached, but the protruding structure creates a risk of over-winding when excessive force is applied
Solution Approach 1:
The stopper portion is pre-positioned on the housing to establish a maximum engagement depth before the actual attachment occurs. This preliminary positioning ensures that even if excessive force is applied during attachment, the thread cannot be over-wound beyond the stopper's limiting position.
Solution Approach 2:
The design accepts that the hook or acoustic tube (rather than the hearing device housing) should fail first under excessive force. The stopper portion enables this by protecting the permanent housing structure, allowing the replaceable component to serve as a sacrificial element.
3Shape
If the wall surrounding the internal thread is made thinner to achieve a sleek design, then the housing profile is improved, but the connection becomes more susceptible to breaking under force
Solution Approach 1:
The stopper portion is installed beforehand to create a mechanical constraint that compensates for the reduced structural reserve provided by the thin wall. This preliminary constraint ensures that the connection reaches its full secure attachment capability before any dangerous stress levels are approached.
Solution Approach 2:
The stopper portion provides beforehand protection against over-winding and excessive force transmission to the thin-walled internal thread structure. It acts as a preventive measure that cushions the fragile connection from damaging stresses during the attachment process.
Data Source
AI summary
A hearing device with a connecting portion (15) for the connection of a hook or acoustic tube comprises an inside thread (21) or internal thread portion at the connecting portion intended for the attachment of a hook or acoustic tube.