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.
Innovation Solution
A multi-function removal handle with integrated electrical contacts and a substrate that serves as a touch sensor or charge contact, allowing for enhanced functionality and self-orientation during charging, while also serving as a radiating element for the device's antenna.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If charging contacts are placed on the faceplate, then charging functionality is achieved, but device size increases and charging becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the charging contacts with the removal handle, combining two separate functions (removal and charging) into a single integrated component. The electrical contacts are positioned at the distal end of the removal handle, allowing users to charge the device by simply attaching the handle to the charging case, thereby eliminating the need for separate charging contacts on the faceplate and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The removal handle is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a removal mechanism and as charging contacts. This universal design allows the same component to perform multiple functions: extracting the device from the ear and charging the rechargeable battery when attached to the charging case, thus reducing the number of separate components needed.
2Volume of moving object
If removal handle is made compact, then space constraints are satisfied, but user comfort and ease of operation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The removal handle is segmented into distinct functional zones: a comfortable gripping portion with increased volume for user comfort, and a distal end with integrated electrical contacts for charging functionality. This segmentation allows different portions of the handle to serve different purposes, maintaining both comfort and functionality within overall space constraints.
3Device complexity
If electrical contacts are integrated into the removal handle, then device size is reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical contacts are nested within the removal handle structure, with the contacts positioned inside a recess or cavity in the handle. This nesting approach allows the contacts to be integrated into the handle without significantly increasing the overall device volume, while also simplifying manufacturing by combining multiple components into a single integrated structure.
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.