Elastically Deformable S-Shaped Ear Support for Audio Device Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ear supports for electronic devices behind the auricle face issues with the transducer wobbling due to non-flat pinna surfaces, leading to poor vibration transmission and increased risk of device fall, and are often cumbersome during prolonged use.
Innovation Solution
An ear support with an elastically deformable S-shaped second branch end that pinches the helix and fits into ear excavations, providing compression to press the device against the internal pinna face, improving vibration transmission and resistance, while being adaptable to various ear morphologies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a straight and rigid branch portion is used to carry the transducer, then the transducer can be brought against the inner surface of the ear, but the transducer wobbles during head movements and may fall
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the rigid branch portion with an elastically deformable S-shaped branch end. This allows the branch to dynamically adapt to the curvature of the ear helix and maintain continuous contact during head movements. The elastic deformation enables the branch to flex and return, providing stable contact without wobbling or falling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of the branch from rigid to elastically deformable. The S-shaped branch end can deform elastically under compression from the helix and return to its original shape, providing consistent contact pressure. This parameter change allows the branch to accommodate variations in ear morphology while maintaining stable transducer contact.
2Reliability
If the contact area between transducer and ear is reduced, then the transducer is less likely to wobble, but the quality of vibration transmission is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible S-shaped branch end that can deform elastically to conform to the ear's surface. This flexible structure allows for a larger contact area between the transducer and ear while maintaining stability. The elastic deformation enables the branch to adapt to the curved surface, distributing contact pressure over a larger area without causing wobbling.
3Strength
If the size of the transducer is increased to cover maximum surface area, then vibration transmission is improved, but the device becomes bothersome during prolonged use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by concentrating the transducer contact area on a specific localized region of the ear where vibration transmission is most effective, rather than distributing it over the entire ear surface. The S-shaped branch end positions the transducer to contact a specific area of the helix, providing sufficient vibration transmission while minimizing the overall device footprint and improving comfort during prolonged use.
4Reliability
If a hook-shaped branch section is used to follow the ear contour, then the transducer can be oriented against the inner surface, but the device obstructs the ear canal and reduces alertness to surrounding noises
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional hook-shaped branch that follows the ear contour to a three-dimensional S-shaped branch that extends obliquely from the plane of the central branch portion. This dimensional change allows the branch to utilize the depth and curvature of the ear helix, positioning the transducer against the inner surface without obstructing the ear canal. The S-shape enables the branch to wrap around the helix in a compact manner, maintaining contact while preserving auditory awareness.
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
Enhances vibration transmission quality, increases resistance to tearing, and ensures the device remains securely attached, allowing for optimal audio use without obstructing the auditory canal.
Implementation Method 1
a second elastically deformable and S-shaped branch end adapted to be fixed to the external face of the ear, said second branch end extending from said central branch portion to form a branch end and extending obliquely with respect to a plane in which the central branch portion extends
Implementation Method 2
Thanks to the elastic deformation of the first S-shaped branch end, the first branch end exerts a return force on the audio device to press it against the inner surface of the ear
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an ear support (1) designed to carry an electronic device (2) behind the auricle, comprising a leg with a central leg portion (9) substantially in the form of a hook for hooking onto the retro-auricular groove between the ear and the skull, and a first straight and rigid leg end (5) which extends from the central leg portion to form one leg end. The leg comprises a second elastically deformable and S-shaped leg end (10), the second leg end forming an extension of the central leg portion to form one leg end and extending obliquely relative to a plane (P) in which the central leg portion extends, and the second leg end and the central leg portion substantially form a helical leg section (PH) with each other.