Stretchable Circuitry for Flexible In-Ear Audio Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing in-ear sound devices are bulky, uncomfortable, and limited in technological capabilities, failing to perform an expanded set of tasks effectively.
Innovation Solution
A deformable and flexible in-ear sound device with stretchable electronic circuitry embedded or on a flexible body, featuring a speaker at the proximal end, allowing for various functionalities such as headphones, music players, and walkie-talkie functions, and capable of wireless communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If traditional rigid electronic components are used in in-ear sound devices, then electrical performance is maintained, but the device becomes bulky and uncomfortable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies flexible circuit boards and thin-film electronic components that can be conformally mounted on curved surfaces. This allows the device to be made lightweight and comfortable for in-ear wear while maintaining electrical performance through the use of flexible printed circuit boards that preserve signal integrity despite their flexible nature.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of electronic components by using flexible materials with appropriate mechanical properties. The flexible circuit boards are designed with specific flexibility parameters that allow them to conform to ear anatomy while maintaining electrical connectivity and performance characteristics.
2Ease of operation
If the device is made flexible and deformable to conform to ear anatomy, then comfort is improved, but maintaining electrical connectivity becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible circuit boards that can deform with the ear canal shape while maintaining continuous electrical pathways. These thin-film circuits are designed to flex without breaking conductive traces, ensuring reliable connectivity even when the device is deformed during insertion or wear.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic system where the electronic components can adapt their shape to match the ear anatomy. The flexible circuit boards are designed with appropriate mechanical compliance to accommodate movements and deformations of the ear while maintaining electrical connectivity throughout the range of motion.
3Adaptability or versatility
If advanced functionalities like wireless communication are added, then technological capabilities are expanded, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions including wireless communication, audio playback, and sensor capabilities into a single in-ear device. The flexible circuit board is designed to accommodate various electronic components that provide diverse functionalities while maintaining a unified compact structure suitable for in-ear wear.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where electronic components are layered and integrated within the flexible structure. The flexible circuit boards allow components to be stacked or arranged in three-dimensional configurations that maximize functionality while minimizing the overall device size and complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment of the invention provides a resiliently deformable and flexible in-ear sound device having stretchable electronic circuitry. The in-ear sound device may be configured in a variety of ways, including, but in no way limited to a smart earplug, a flexible personal sound amplification product, a personal music player, a “walkie-talkie” and the like.