An open-ear headphone with an acoustic module configured to be located at least in part in a concha of an outer ear of a user. The acoustic module comprises a housing that contains an acoustic transducer. There is a first sound-emitting opening in the housing that is configured to emit sound produced by the acoustic transducer. The acoustic module defines a central longitudinal axis and the first sound-emitting opening is offset from the central axis.
Various implementations include audio systems and methods for mixed rendering to enhance audio output. Certain implementations include an audio system having: at least one far-field speaker configured to output a first portion of an audio signal; and a pair of non-occluding near-field speakers configured to output a second portion of the audio signal in synchrony with the output of the first portion of the audio signal, where the second portion of the audio signal increases intelligibility of the speech content within the audio signal.
A headphone includes an earphone that includes an earcup, an ear cushion, and a driver plate assembly. The driver plate assembly is supported in the earcup and includes a driver plate, a driver mounted along a rear surface of the driver plate, an opening that is provided in the driver plate to allow acoustic energy to pass from the driver into a user's ear canal, a ring that is arranged substantially coaxially with the opening, and an acoustic mesh. The ring defines a planar surface on which the acoustic mesh is mounted.
An active noise reduction (ANR) device includes an acoustic transducer, a first sensor, and a second sensor. The acoustic transducer is configured to generate output audio. The first sensor is configured to capture audio originating from an external environment of the ANR device. The second sensor is configured to generate a signal indicative of (1) the audio originating from the external environment and (2) the output audio generated by the acoustic transducer. The output audio generated by the acoustic transducer is modified based on a portion of the signal generated by the second sensor, the portion being attributable to a resonant mode of a user's ear canal.
G10K 11/178 - Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound by electro-acoustically regenerating the original acoustic waves in anti-phase
An apparatus includes a noise reduction headphone comprising one or more microphones and an acoustic transducer, the one or more microphones configured to generate an input signal; and a controller comprising one or more processing devices, the controller configured to: process the input signal through one or more noise reduction filters to generate a noise-reduction signal, compare the input signal to an estimate of ambient noise to determine if the energy of the input signal is greater than the estimate of ambient noise, wherein if the energy of the input signal is greater than the estimate of ambient noise by a predetermined amount, a change in the noise reduction signal is suppressed; and generate an output signal, the output signal comprising, at least in part, the noise-reduction signal, wherein the acoustic transducer is configured to produce an acoustic output in accordance with the output signal.
G10K 11/178 - Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound by electro-acoustically regenerating the original acoustic waves in anti-phase
A wind noise reduction system including a beamformer, a comparator, and a voice mixer is provided. The beamformer may be an MVDR beamformer, and generates a beamformed signal based on a first microphone signal and a second microphone signal. The comparator generates a comparison signal based on the beamformed signal and a wind microphone signal. The comparison signal may be further based on a beamformed energy level of the beamformed signal and a wind energy level of the wind microphone signal. The voice mixer generates an output voice signal based on the beamformed signal, the wind microphone signal, and the comparison signal. The wind noise reduction system may further include a wind microphone corresponding to the wind microphone signal. The wind microphone may be arranged on a portion of a wearable audio device configured to be seated in a concha of a wearer.
G10K 11/178 - Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound by electro-acoustically regenerating the original acoustic waves in anti-phase
H04R 1/40 - Arrangements for obtaining desired frequency or directional characteristics for obtaining desired directional characteristic only by combining a number of identical transducers
A flexible arm that is configured to be located between and physically and electrically connect an acoustic module of an open-ear headphone to a battery housing of the open-ear headphone. The flexible arm includes a flexible printed circuit that extends through the entire original resting length of the flexible arm and comprises a conductor that is configured to carry electrical energy between the acoustic module and the battery housing. A first interface structure is coupled to one of the acoustic module and the battery housing. At least one link member is pivotably coupled to the first interface structure. A flexible material encases at least some of the flexible printed circuit, at least some of the at least one link member, and at least some of the first interface structure.
Various implementations include in-ear wearable audio devices. In certain implementations, the in-ear audio devices include an eartip with a body having first and second ends, an inner wall extending between the first and second ends defining a hollow passage to conduct acoustic energy, and a deformable outer wall connected to the inner wall of the body at the first end and tapering away from the inner wall toward the second end, where the deformable outer wall is functionally graded from the first end to the second end to comply with an entrance of an ear canal of a user. In additional implementations, the eartip includes a retaining structure, and at least one of the inner wall or the outer wall of the body, or the retaining structure, has an integral electronic component and/or an electronic component signal trace.
An active noise reduction earbud includes a housing and a first feedforward microphone disposed in the housing. A first sound inlet opening extends through the housing and is configured to conduct external sound to the first feedforward microphone. The first sound inlet opening is configured to sit within a concha cavum of a user's ear and faces toward an auricle of the user's ear when the earbud is worn.
G10K 11/178 - Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound by electro-acoustically regenerating the original acoustic waves in anti-phase
Systems and methods of providing audio through or near a headrest are provided. A headrest includes an adjustable surface positioned to be proximate an occupants head when in use and an acoustic opening is configured to emit acoustic energy from an acoustic transducer in a range of directions in which an ear of the occupant is expected to occupy. The position of the adjustable surface gives some indication of the location of the occupants ear, and various audio signal (driver signal) properties may be adjusted based upon the position of the adjustable surface.
Various implementations include portable speakers with detachable wireless transmitters. In some particular aspects, a portable speaker includes an enclosure housing: at least one electro-acoustic transducer for providing an audio output, a processor coupled with the at least one transducer; an audio input module coupled with the processor for receiving audio input signals; and an input channel for receiving a hard-wired audio input connection at the enclosure; at least one wireless transmitter detachably housed in the enclosure and in communication with a corresponding wireless input channel for receiving audio input from a source device.
A voice capture system including a first and second voice beamformer, a voice mixer, a voice rejected noise beamformer, a noise beamformer adjustor, a jammer suppressor, and a speech enhancer is provided. The first and second voice beamformer and the voice mixer generate a voice enhanced reference signal based on a first and second frequency domain microphone signal. The voice rejected noise beamformer includes filter weights and generates a noise reference signal based on the first and second frequency domain microphone signal. The noise beamformer adjustor adjusts the one or more filter weights of the voice rejected noise beamformer to account for fit variation. The jammer suppressor generates a jammer suppressed signal based on the voice enhanced reference signal and the noise reference signal. The speech enhancer dynamically generates an output voice signal by applying a dynamic noise suppression signal to each frequency bin of the jammer suppressed signal.
Various aspects include wearable devices and related approaches for stimulating nerves proximate a user's ear, e.g., providing one or more health benefits. In some particular aspects, a wearable device for providing vibrotactile stimulus to at least one nerve proximate an ear of a user includes: an earpiece having a vibration device for application of vibrotactile stimulus proximate at least one of a concha region or an ear canal of the user; and a controller connected with the vibration device, the controller configured to actuate the vibration device according to a modulated pattern to stimulate at least one nerve proximate the ear of the user, where the modulated pattern is characterized by: a peak drive level sufficient to stimulate nerve endings of at least one nerve proximate the ear of the user; and a carrier frequency of approximately 50 Hertz (Hz) to approximately 500 Hz.
A61M 21/00 - Other devices or methods to cause a change in the state of consciousness; Devices for producing or ending sleep by mechanical, optical, or acoustical means, e.g. for hypnosis
A headphone includes a cushion assembly, a slider telescopingly received within the cushion assembly, and an earphone. A yoke couples the earphone to the slider. A pivot is disposed at an open end of the slider and couples the yoke to the slider. The pivot includes a barrel that is received within an opening in the yoke. The barrel is secured within the opening via a pin that is inserted into a hole in the yoke.
A headphone includes a cushion assembly and a slider telescopically coupled to the cushion assembly. The slider includes a proximal end that is disposed within the cushion assembly and a distal end extending outward from the cushion assembly. A pivot support is disposed within an opening at the distal end of the slider. A pivot is supported in the pivot support. The headphone also includes an earphone and a yoke that couples the earphone to the slider. The pivot support is secured to the slider via a fastener, and wherein the yoke is pivotable to a position in which it covers the fastener when the headphones are in use.
A headphone includes a headband and a yoke that is pivotably coupled to the headband. The yoke includes first and second yoke arms that each extend from a pivot point to respective distal ends. An earphone is pivotably coupled to the yoke. The earphone includes an earcup that defines first and second recesses for receiving the distal ends of the yoke arms. The earcup and the yoke are configured such that the distal ends of the yoke arms can be slid into the recesses in the earcup for assembly without elastic deformation of the yoke arms or the earcup.
A playback audio signal is combined with a feedback signal from a feedback microphone to provide a first combined signal. The first combined signal is filtered with a feedback filter to provide a driver command signal. The driver command signal is provided to an acoustic transducer for transduction to acoustic energy. The first combined signal is compared with the feedback signal to detect a feedback instability based upon the comparison.
G10K 11/178 - Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound by electro-acoustically regenerating the original acoustic waves in anti-phase
22.
GRAIN BOUNDARY DIFFUSION FOR HIGH COERCIVITY MAGNETS FOR LOUDSPEAKERS
An electro-acoustic transducer includes a diaphragm and an electro-magnetic motor for driving motion of the diaphragm. The electro-magnetic motor includes a magnetic circuit that includes a first Rare earth-Iron-Boron (REFeB) magnet. The REFeB magnet includes a major phase and a grain boundary rich rare earth phase. A heavy rare earth element (HREE) is diffused into the first REFeB magnet through the grain boundary rich rare earth phase.
Processes, methods, systems, and devices are disclosed for intelligently detecting speech or in audio signals and smoothly transitioning to mode that enables a user to better understand the speech. For example, aspects of the present disclosure provide method for processing and producing audio signals. During playback of an audio signal, the method analyzes content of the audio signal prior to the playback of the content to determine whether one or more predefined conditions are met to indicate that the content includes speech. In response to determining the one or more predefined conditions are met, the method automatically applies to the audio signal a first playback equalization configured to enhance the speech within the content. In response to determining the one or more predefined conditions are not met, the method comprises applying to the audio signal no playback equalization or a second playback equalization different from the first playback equalization.
Technology described in this document can be embodied in a method that includes receiving a first input signal representing audio captured by a first sensor disposed in a signal path of an active noise reduction (ANR) device, and receiving a second input signal representing audio captured by a second sensor disposed in the signal path of the ANR device. The method also includes processing, by at least one compensator, the first input signal and the second input signal to generate a drive signal for an acoustic transducer of the ANR device. A gain applied to the signal path is at least 3 dB less relative to an ANR signal path having a single sensor.
G10K 11/178 - Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound by electro-acoustically regenerating the original acoustic waves in anti-phase
System (100) for accommodating mobile devices used for video teleconferencing, the system including a loudspeaker (120), a controller (190), and an elevated support (140) for the mobile device. The controller communicates with the mobile device and controls the loudspeaker to provide an audio interface with the mobile device.
Aspects describe a dual-planar retaining piece for stabilizing and securing earpiece in a wearer's ear. The retaining piece is either fixed or removable from the earpiece. The retaining piece includes a first cantilevered portion shaped to flexibly fit under the antitragus of a wearer's ear when the earpiece is worn, a second cantilevered portion shaped to flexibly fit under the antihelix of the wearer's ear when the earpiece is worn, and at least one attachment feature that couples the retaining piece to a body of the earpiece, wherein the body is shaped to fit in the lower concha of the wearer's ear when the earpiece is worn. In aspects, the first and second cantilevered portions are integrally formed.
Systems and methods are provided that detect at least one of a look direction or a focal depth of a user and execute control actions based upon the detected look direction and/or focal depth.
A flexible arm that is configured to be located between and physically and electrically connect an acoustic module of an open-ear headphone to a battery housing of the open-ear headphone. The flexible arm defines an original resting length and position between the acoustic module and the battery housing. The flexible arm includes a flexible printed circuit that extends through the entire original resting length of the flexible arm and comprises a conductor that is configured to carry electrical energy between the acoustic module and the battery housing, and a flexible material that encases at least some of the flexible printed circuit. The length of the flexible printed circuit within the flexible arm is greater than the original resting length of the flexible arm. The flexible printed circuit can thus better accommodate tension or compression on the flexible arm as the flexible arm is bent from its original resting position.
A modular audio system which includes an acoustic module (104) configured to be removably engaged with a head-worn peripheral device. In some examples, the head-worn peripheral device is a pair of eyeglass frames and the acoustic module is configured to removably secure to a socket arranged on the inside face of the temples of the eyeglasses. The acoustic module may be configured to magnetically engage with the peripheral device such that, in a resting, coupled position, respective components of magnetic retention force are provided in at least two axial directions that are orthogonal to each other i.e., a first component of magnetic retention force is provided in a first (horizontal) axial direction and a second component of magnetic retention force is provided in a second (vertical) axial direction.
A system for providing spatialized audio in a vehicle, including a vehicle orientation sensor outputting a vehicle orientation signal and being disposed on the vehicle and a controller configured to receive a user orientation signal output from a user orientation sensor being on a wearable that, during use, moves with a first user's head, wherein the controller is further configured to determine an orientation of the user's head relative to the vehicle based, at least, on a difference between the vehicle orientation signal and the user orientation signal, the controller being further configured to output to a first binaural device, according to the orientation of the user's head relative to the vehicle, a first spatial audio signal, such that the first binaural device produces a first spatial acoustic signal perceived by the user as originating from a first virtual source location within a cabin of the vehicle.
Various implementations include audio systems and methods for mixed rendering to enhance audio output. Certain implementations include an audio system having: at least one far-field speaker configured to output a first portion of an audio signal; and a pair of non-occluding near-field speakers configured to output a second portion of the audio signal in synchrony with the output of the first portion of the audio signal, where the first portion of the audio signal is distinct from the second portion of the audio signal.
Various implementations include audio devices and methods for noise reduction control in wearable audio devices and/or vehicle audio systems. Certain implementations include a non-occluding wearable audio device having: at least one electro-acoustic transducer; at least one microphone; and a control system coupled with the at least one electro-acoustic transducer and the at least one microphone, the control system programmed to: adjust an active noise reduction (ANR) setting for audio output to the at least one electro-acoustic transducer in response to detecting use of the non-occluding wearable audio device in a vehicle.
G10K 11/178 - Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound by electro-acoustically regenerating the original acoustic waves in anti-phase
35.
MULTIPLEXING APPLICATION CHANNELS ON ISOCHRONOUS STREAMS
A first device is provided. The first device includes an audio source, a sensor, and a processor. The audio source generates audio data, and the sensor captures sensor data. The processor generates a data packet including an audio data set generated by the audio source and a sensor data set captured by the sensor. In some examples, the data packet may also include audio payload length data and/or sensor payload length data, audio channel identification data and/or sensor channel identification data, and/or audio time offset data and/or sensor time offset data. The audio data set may have a first lifetime and the sensor data set has a second lifetime longer than the first lifetime. The processor the transmits the data packet to a second device configured to reconstruct the audio data set and the sensor data set by demultiplexing the data packet.
Various implementations include a computational architecture for a personal active noise reduction (ANR) device. The device includes a communication interface that receives an audio stream, a driver, a microphone system and an ANR processing platform. The platform includes a first DSP configured to: receive the audio stream and signals from the microphone system, perform ANR on the audio stream according to a set of parameters in the first DSP, and output a processed audio stream. The platform includes a second DSP configured to: generate state data in response to an analysis of the source audio stream, signals from the microphone system, and the processed audio stream; and alter the operational parameters on the first DSP. The platform includes a general purpose processor configured to characterize a malfunction in response to instability or error condition events detected by the second DSP.
G10K 11/178 - Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound by electro-acoustically regenerating the original acoustic waves in anti-phase
According to an aspect of the disclosure, an audio device is provided comprising a communications interface configured to be communicatively coupled to an audio source, at least one sensor, and a controller configured to control the audio device to be in a low-power mode, receive, from the sensor(s), information indicative of a presence of a user's body, initiate, via the communications interface responsive to receiving the information, a wireless communication pairing process to establish a wireless communication bond with the audio source prior to determining that the audio device is fully engaged with the user's body, determine, subsequent to initiating the wireless communication pairing process and based on information received from the sensor(s), that the audio device is fully engaged with the user's body, and control, responsive to determining that the audio device is fully engaged with the user's body, the audio device to be in an active mode.
An electroacoustic transducer includes a first diaphragm, a first voice coil that is coupled to the first diaphragm, a second diaphragm, a second voice coil that is coupled to the second diaphragm, and a single common magnetic circuit that is configured to provide a magnetic field in both a first magnetic circuit gap and a separate second magnetic circuit gap. The first voice coil is located at least in part in the first magnetic circuit gap and the second voice coil is located at least in part in the second magnetic circuit gap.
The technology described in this document can be embodied in a method that includes receiving an input signal captured by one or more sensors associated with an active noise reduction (ANR) headphone, and determining one or more characteristics of a first portion of the input signal. Based on the one or more characteristics of the first portion of the input signal, a gain of a variable gain amplifier (VGA) disposed in an ANR signal flow path can be adjusted, and accordingly, a set of coefficients for a tunable digital filter disposed in the ANR signal flow path can be selected. The method further includes processing a second portion of the input signal in the ANR signal flow path using the adjusted gain and selected set of coefficients to generate a second output signal for the electroacoustic transducer of the ANR headphone.
G10K 11/178 - Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound by electro-acoustically regenerating the original acoustic waves in anti-phase
H03G 3/30 - Automatic control in amplifiers having semiconductor devices
In one aspect a method that includes receiving an input signal captured by one or more first sensors associated with an active noise reduction (ANR) device, and processing the input signal using a first filter disposed in an ANR signal path to generate a first signal for an acoustic transducer of the ANR device. The input signal is processed in a pass-through signal path disposed in parallel with the ANR signal path to generate a second signal for the acoustic transducer, wherein the pass-through signal path allows a portion of the input signal to pass through to the acoustic transducer in accordance with a variable gain. One or more second sensors detect an existence of a condition likely to cause instability in the pass-through signal path, and in response, the variable gain is adjusted. A driver signal for the acoustic transducer is generated using an output based on the adjusted gain.
G10K 11/178 - Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound by electro-acoustically regenerating the original acoustic waves in anti-phase
G10K 11/175 - Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound
A sound-producing device includes a housing having a front and a top, a first electro-acoustic transducer facing from the front of the housing, a second electro-acoustic transducer facing from the top of the housing, and a third electro-acoustic transducer facing from the top of the housing. There is at least one processor that is configured to, during audio playback, generate a first array using the first and second electro-acoustic transducers, the first array providing a left height component of the audio playback, and generate a second array using the first and third electro-acoustic transducers, the second array providing a right height component of the audio playback.
H04R 1/40 - Arrangements for obtaining desired frequency or directional characteristics for obtaining desired directional characteristic only by combining a number of identical transducers
H04S 7/00 - Indicating arrangements; Control arrangements, e.g. balance control
42.
SYSTEM WITH SPEAKER, TRANSCEIVER AND RELATED DEVICES AND METHODS
A method includes wirelessly receiving audio content via a first transceiver included in a housing of a first device and producing a first audible signal from the audio content via a speaker included in the housing of the first device. The audio content is wirelessly transmitted via the first transceiver to a second transceiver integrated within a first remote speaker. A second audible signal is produced from the audio content via the first remote speaker. The method also includes wirelessly relaying the audio content via the second transceiver to a third transceiver integrated within a second remote speaker and producing a third audible signal from the audio content via the second remote speaker. The second remote speaker is located outside of the transmission range of the first transceiver.
Aspects describe a raised feature to help a user remove an in-ear audio output device from a case. Aspects describe a device comprising an earbud housing shaped to fit in a concha of an ear of a wearer of the device, and a body coupled to the earbud housing, the body extending away from an ear canal of the wearer and oriented outside of the ear when the device is worn, the body comprising a top cap comprising a flat external portion and a raised feature proximate to a concha cymba of the wearer and external to the ear when the device is worn.
Aspects describe an in-ear audio output device for ESD mitigation. The device includes an earbud housing, a nozzle having one or more apertures to conduct sound waves to the ear canal of the wearer, a flexible printed circuit board positioned within the earbud housing and the nozzle, the flexible printed circuit board comprising: a first portion, a second portion comprising a first edge of the flexible printed circuit board proximate the one or more apertures, and a metal layer on a top surface of the second portion, a microphone attached to a bottom surface of the flexible printed circuit board, and a metal casing attached to the bottom surface of the flexible printed circuit board and surrounding the microphone, the metal casing comprising a second edge proximate the one or more apertures, wherein the second edge is a greater distance from the one or more apertures than the first edge.
A method performed by a wearable audio output device worn by a user is provided for controlling external noise attenuated by wearable audio output device. A speech is detected from a user wearing the wearable audio output device, wherein the audio output device has active noise reduction turned on. It is determined, based on the detecting, that the user desires to speak to a subject in the vicinity of the user. In response to the determining, a level of noise reduction is reduced to enable the user to hear sounds external to the audio output device. It is determined that the user desires to speak to the subject by detecting at least one condition of a plurality of conditions.
Various implementations include vehicle headrest configurations and related audio systems. In some cases, a headrest includes: a main body having a front surface to support a back of a user’s head and a pair of acoustic channels each formed in part by a side wall having a front edge that is offset from the front surface, the main body having a portion configured to receive first and second transducers, where a transducer mount in each of the pair of acoustic channels for mounting respective ones of the first and second transducers, where a dimension (Dimension C) is defined by a rotation angle of the transducer mount relative to a centerline of the vehicle headrest, wherein Dimension C is approximately -20 degrees to approximately zero degrees.
Systems and methods for broadcasting wireless data via one or more retransmission schemes to increase the packet reception in a wireless system. One or more devices of the system are configured to listen for an initial data packet from a source device. Should one or more devices successfully receive the initial packet, each device that received the packet can unconditionally retransmit a copy of the payload of the initial packet such that any device that failed to receive the initial packet payload has an opportunity to receive it during the respective retransmissions. Similarly, each device of the system can send acknowledgements to the other system devices that indicate whether they received the initial packet. Should one or more of the devices successfully receive the initial packet, the devices can conditionally retransmit a copy of the missing payload when one or more devices indicates they have failed to receive it.
Techniques for wireless audio synchronization are disclosed herein. An example system includes a plurality of audio playback devices including a first audio playback device and a second audio playback device. The first audio playback device is connected to an audio source via a Bluetooth connection to receive audio content, and the first audio playback device is configured to distribute the audio content to at least one other audio playback device of the plurality of audio playback devices. The second audio playback device is configured to distribute clock information via a wireless network to at least one other audio playback device of the plurality of audio playback devices.
Various implementations include approaches for establishing a Bluetooth (BT) connection between devices. One example approach includes: in response to a BT trigger at a first BT device, attempting to determine a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) from a set of additional BT devices paired to the first BT device; if an RSSI from a first additional BT device is a highest RSSI from the set and exceeds an RSSI from a second additional BT device with a second-highest RSSI by a threshold, selecting the first additional BT device for connection with the first BT device; and if a difference between the RSSI from the first additional BT device and the RSSI from the second additional BT devices does not exceed the threshold, selecting either the first additional BT device or the second additional BT device for connection based on a BT connection hierarchy.
H04W 4/80 - Services using short range communication, e.g. near-field communication [NFC], radio-frequency identification [RFID] or low energy communication
The present disclosure includes techniques for providing timing for outputting audio from two or more devices. An example method includes determining, at a first device, timing for outputting audio from a second device and a third device in an attempt to have the audio from the second and third devices play in a synchronized manner. The example method further includes communicating from the first device to the second device, using a first wireless communication technology (e.g., Wi-Fi), the timing for outputting the audio. The example method further includes communicating from the first device to the third device, using a second wireless communication technology (e.g., Bluetooth) that is different from the first wireless communication technology, the timing for outputting the audio.
H04N 21/43 - Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video stream; Elementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronizing decoder's clock; Client middleware
A system and method for selecting audio capture sensors of wearable devices in obtaining voice data. The method provides obtaining signals associated with the user's voice at first and second wearable devices, comparing energy levels of the first and second signals, and selecting one or more audio capture sensors based on the energy levels of each signal. Due to the symmetry of the acoustic energy produced by the user's voice to a first and second wearable device, any difference in energy level between the total energy obtained by the first wearable device and the total energy obtained by the second wearable device can be attributed solely to ambient noise. Thus, the device with the higher total energy has a lower signal-to-noise ratio and selection of an audio capture sensor of the other wearable device with a higher signal-to-noise ratio is provided to obtain voice data moving forward.
G10L 25/21 - Speech or voice analysis techniques not restricted to a single one of groups characterised by the type of extracted parameters the extracted parameters being power information
G10L 25/51 - Speech or voice analysis techniques not restricted to a single one of groups specially adapted for particular use for comparison or discrimination
G10L 25/78 - Detection of presence or absence of voice signals
H04R 1/40 - Arrangements for obtaining desired frequency or directional characteristics for obtaining desired directional characteristic only by combining a number of identical transducers
Various implementations include systems and approaches for determining user oxygen saturation level, and in certain cases, performing an action based on that determination. Particular aspects include a monitoring system having at least one pressure sensor for detecting air pressure in an environment proximate the at least one pressure sensor, and a processor coupled with the at least one pressure sensor, where the processor is programmed to receive air pressure data from the pressure sensor about the environment, determine an oxygen saturation level for a user in the environment based on the air pressure data, and in response to determining the oxygen saturation level of the user has met one or more predetermined conditions, perform an action.
A headset includes an acoustic structure, a first microphone located outside the acoustic structure, a second microphone located inside the acoustic structure, and an output driver configured to receive an antinoise signal based on a combination of input from the first and second microphones. A voice signal of a user of the headset is generated using input from the first and second microphones. The first microphone could be a feed-forward microphone that provides input to a feed-forward filter to produce a filtered feed-forward signal for producing the antinoise signal. The second microphone could be a feedback microphone that provides input to a feedback filter to produce a filtered feedback signal for producing the antinoise signal.
G10K 11/175 - Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound
Methods and systems of acknowledgment of wireless data packets is provided. For example, such a method can include receiving, from a central device, such as a smartphone, at a first peripheral device, such as a left earbud, a first isochronous data stream intended to be received by the first peripheral device. The method further includes receiving, from a central device at a second peripheral device, such as a right earbud, a second isochronous data stream intended to be received by the second peripheral device. In some examples, the second peripheral device is a right earbud. The method further includes eavesdropping, via the second peripheral device, the first isochronous data stream in an attempt to receive a packet of the first isochronous data stream. The method further includes sending, from the second peripheral device, an acknowledgment after the packet has been received by the second peripheral device.
Systems, devices, and methods for initiating an action based on location of a first device are provided. The first device, such as an earbud, includes a Bluetooth receiver. The Bluetooth receiver is configured to receive a wave signal transmitted by a second device, such as a smartphone. The first device further includes a processor. The processor is configured to calculate a location of the first device relative to the second device based on the wave signal. The processor is further configured to determine a zone status of the first device based on the location of the first device relative to the second device and a predetermined zone. The processor is further configured to initiate the action based on the zone status.
H04W 4/021 - Services related to particular areas, e.g. point of interest [POI] services, venue services or geofences
H04W 4/80 - Services using short range communication, e.g. near-field communication [NFC], radio-frequency identification [RFID] or low energy communication
A method of determining an audio controller for a headphone that is configured to use an acoustic transducer to develop sound that is delivered to an ear of a user and that includes a feedback microphone that is configured to sense sound developed by the acoustic transducer, and a related computer program product and system. A first audio transfer function between the acoustic transducer and the feedback microphone is measured. A second audio transfer function between the acoustic transducer and the feedback microphone with a feedback controller applied is determined. The audio controller is calculated based on both the first audio transfer function and the second audio transfer function.
G10K 11/178 - Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound by electro-acoustically regenerating the original acoustic waves in anti-phase
58.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DYNAMIC ADJUSTMENT OF RF AMPLIFIERS
A method for adjusting an RF amplifier is provided. The method includes determining link statistics corresponding to wireless data received by a first device. The wireless data was transmitted by a second device, such as via a Bluetooth protocol. The method further includes adjusting an RF amplifier of the first device or the second device based on the one or more link statistics. The one or more link statistics may include RSSI, PER, buffer level, audio drop data, and acknowledgement packet data. The RF amplifier may be a low noise amplifier or a power amplifier. The adjusting may include increasing or decreasing a gain of the RF amplifier. Alternatively, the adjusting may include activating or deactivating the RF amplifier.
H04W 4/80 - Services using short range communication, e.g. near-field communication [NFC], radio-frequency identification [RFID] or low energy communication
Various implementations include audio devices such as earbuds or earpieces. In certain cases, an audio devices includes a set of earbuds configured to generate a magnetic field. The audio device also includes a case for docking the set of earbuds. The case includes: a Hall effect sensor for detecting proximity to at least one of the earbuds based on the magnetic field; and a power source for charging the set of earbuds while docked in the case. Additional implementations include independent couplings for earbuds or earpieces.
G01D 5/14 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using electric or magnetic means influencing the magnitude of a current or voltage
H02J 7/00 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
A computer program product having a non-transitory computer-readable medium including computer program logic encoded thereon that, when performed on a surround sound audio system that is configured to render left front, right front, and center front audio signals, and also render left and right near-field binaurally-encoded audio signals, causes the surround sound audio system to develop the left and right near-field binaurally-encoded audio signals, and provide the left near-field binaurally-encoded audio signal to a left non-occluding near-field driver and provide the right near-field binaurally-encoded audio signal to a right non-occluding near-field driver.
Methods, systems, and computer-readable media are provided for detecting voice activity. A primary signal is configured to include a speech component representative of a user's speech when the user is speaking in a detection region, or environment. A reference signal is configured to include a reduced speech component relative to the primary signal. One or more conditions of the detection region is/are detected, and a threshold value is selected (or, optionally, calculated) based upon the detected condition(s). The primary signal is compared to the reference signal, with respect to the selected threshold value. An indication of whether the user is speaking is selectively output, based at least in part upon the comparison.
A flexible arm that is configured to be located between and physically and electrically connect an acoustic module of an open-ear headphone to a battery housing of the open-ear headphone. The flexible arm defines an original resting length and position between the acoustic module and the battery housing. The flexible arm includes a flexible printed circuit that extends through the entire original resting length of the flexible arm and comprises a conductor that is configured to carry electrical energy between the acoustic module and the battery housing. A first interface structure is coupled to one of the acoustic module and the battery housing. A flexible material encases at least some of the flexible printed circuit and at least some of the first interface structure.
A method for adjusting the clarity of an audio output in a changing environment, including: receiving a content signal; applying a customized gain to the content signal; and outputting the content signal with the customized gain to at least one speaker for transduction to an acoustic signal, wherein the customized gain is applied on a per frequency bin basis such that frequencies of a lesser magnitude are enhanced with respect to frequencies of a greater magnitude and an intelligibility of the acoustic signal is set approximately at a desired level, wherein the customized gain is determined according to at least one of a gain applied to the content signal, a bandwidth of the content signal, and a content type encoded by the content signal.
A method and system directed to controlling audio devices with active noise reduction. The system detects a first instability condition in a first headphone based on one or more parameters; alters a parameter of the one or more parameters; and detects a second audio instability condition in the first headphone based on the altered parameter of the one or more parameters. The first and second audio instability conditions are related to audio feedback.
G10K 11/178 - Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound by electro-acoustically regenerating the original acoustic waves in anti-phase
66.
ACOUSTIC NOISE REDUCTION AUDIO SYSTEM HAVING TAP CONTROL
An acoustic noise reduction (ANR) headphone described herein has current detection circuitry that detects current consumed by an acoustic driver amplifier as a result of pressure changes due to a tapping of the headphone. Tapping may be performed to change an audio feature or operating mode of the audio system for the headphone. The current detection circuitry senses a characteristic of the current consumed by the acoustic driver amplifier that can be used to determine an occurrence of a tap event. Examples of a characteristic include an amplitude, waveform or duration of the sensed current. Advantageously, the ANR headphones avoid the need for control buttons to initiate the desired changes to the audio feature or operating mode.
G10K 11/178 - Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound by electro-acoustically regenerating the original acoustic waves in anti-phase
Various implementations include methods and related systems for controlling the audio output in a vehicle cabin. In one implementation, a method includes: receiving a first input indicative of a first audio output at a first location in the vehicle cabin; displaying a range of outputs available to a user in a second location in the vehicle cabin; receiving a second input indicative of a second audio output within the range of outputs at the second location; and outputting the first audio output and the second audio output in the vehicle cabin.
Various implementations include portable loudspeakers. Certain implementations include a portable loudspeaker that mitigates ingress of moisture, particulates, and other contaminates. In particular implementations, the portable loudspeaker includes a housing with an enclosure having a co-molded construction for ingress resistance.
H04R 1/28 - Transducer mountings or enclosures designed for specific frequency response; Transducer enclosures modified by provision of mechanical or acoustic impedances, e.g. resonator, damping means
H04R 3/12 - Circuits for transducers for distributing signals to two or more loudspeakers
69.
WEARABLE AUDIO DEVICE WITH MODULAR COMPONENT ATTACHMENT
Various aspects include wearable audio devices enabling modular component attachment and detachment. In certain implementations, a wearable audio device includes: a headband for contacting a head of a user; an earpiece coupled with the headband for positioning proximate an ear of the user, the earpiece having an electro-acoustic transducer configured to output audio signals; and a slot configured to engage an electronic component, where the slot includes one or more snap-fit and/or friction-fit connectors for selectively engaging the electronic component.
An open-ear headphone with an acoustic module that is configured to be located at least in part in a concha of an outer ear of a user. The acoustic module includes an acoustic transducer, and a sound-emitting opening that is configured to emit sound produced by the acoustic transducer. A battery housing is configured to be located behind the outer ear and contains a battery power source. A compliant connecting portion couples the battery housing to the acoustic module. The connecting position enables displacement of the battery housing relative to the acoustic module.
A flexible arm that is configured to be located between and physically and electrically connect an acoustic module of an open-ear headphone to a battery housing of the open-ear headphone. The flexible arm defines an original resting length and position between the acoustic module and the battery housing. The flexible arm includes a flexible printed circuit that extends through the entire original resting length of the flexible arm and comprises a conductor that is configured to carry electrical energy between the acoustic module and the battery housing, and a flexible material that encases at least some of the flexible printed circuit. The length of the flexible printed circuit within the flexible arm is greater than the original resting length of the flexible arm. The flexible printed circuit can thus better accommodate tension or compression on the flexible arm as the flexible arm is bent from its original resting position.
An open-ear headphone with an acoustic module configured to be located at least in part in a concha of an outer ear of a user. The acoustic module comprises a housing that contains an acoustic transducer. There is a first sound-emitting opening in the housing that is configured to emit sound produced by the acoustic transducer. The acoustic module defines a central longitudinal axis and the first sound-emitting opening is offset from the central axis.
Various implementations include portable speakers with detachable wireless transmitters. In some particular aspects, a portable speaker includes an enclosure housing: at least one electro-acoustic transducer for providing an audio output, a processor coupled with the at least one transducer; an audio input module coupled with the processor for receiving audio input signals; and an input channel for receiving a hard-wired audio input connection at the enclosure; at least one wireless transmitter detachably housed in the enclosure and in communication with a corresponding wireless input channel for receiving audio input from a source device.
Various implementations include portable speakers configured to adjust audio output based on detected input connections. In certain cases, a portable speaker includes: an enclosure housing: at least one electro-acoustic transducer for providing an audio output; a processor coupled with the transducer; an audio input module coupled with the processor for receiving audio input signals; and a battery configured to power the at least one transducer, the processor, and the audio input module; an input channel for receiving a hard-wired audio input connection; and at least one wireless input channel for receiving an audio input from a source device via a wireless connection, where the processor is configured to: adjust an audio signal received from the hard-wired audio input connection if a source device is already connected via the wireless connection.
Various implementations include portable speakers with dynamic display characteristics. In some particular aspects, a portable speaker includes an enclosure housing: at least one electro-acoustic transducer for providing an audio output; a processor coupled with the at least one transducer; an audio input module coupled with the processor for receiving audio input signals; and a battery configured to power the at least one transducer, the processor, and the audio input module; an input channel for receiving a hard-wired audio input connection; at least one wireless input channel for receiving an audio input from a source device via a wireless connection; and a display on the enclosure coupled with the processor, wherein the processor adjusts an orientation of the display between a first orientation and a second orientation in response to detecting a change in orientation of the portable speaker.
Aspects of the present disclosure provide techniques, including devices and system implementing the techniques, to provide feedback to a user of an event when the user is wearing a wearable device. For example, the wearable device may provide high quality noise canceling audio playback to the user, lowering the user's situation awareness. The techniques include measuring ambient sound using two or more microphones on the wearable device. The measured ambient sound is used to determine a related event worth relaying to the user. Based on the location attribute and sound properties, the nature and/or classification of the event may be ascertained using pattern recognition algorithms according to user threshold settings. Insignificant events that the user prefers to ignore will be ruled out by the algorithm. Upon determining the event that merits the user's attention, the wearable device provides feedback to the user indicating the nature and location of the event.
Methods and systems for improving the robustness of wireless communications. The methods and systems provided transmit data packets over one or more isochronous stream and transmit one or more supplemental data packets over the same time intervals. The one or more supplemental data packets are used to recreate and/or enhance at least a portion of one or more data packets of the plurality of data packets that have already been sent. Alternatively, the one or more supplemental data packets are used to create and/or enhance at least a portion of one or more data packets of the plurality of data packets that will be received during the next isochronous intervals. The methods and system described herein allow for increased robustness by allowing for better retransmission with correctly received packets.
H04L 1/00 - Arrangements for detecting or preventing errors in the information received
H03M 13/11 - Error detection or forward error correction by redundancy in data representation, i.e. code words containing more digits than the source words using block codes, i.e. a predetermined number of check bits joined to a predetermined number of information bits using multiple parity bits
H03M 13/00 - Coding, decoding or code conversion, for error detection or error correction; Coding theory basic assumptions; Coding bounds; Error probability evaluation methods; Channel models; Simulation or testing of codes
79.
IN-EAR AUDIO OUTPUT DEVICE HAVING A STABILITY BAND DESIGNED TO MINIMIZE ACOUSTIC PORT BLOCKAGE
Aspects describe an in-ear audio output device. The in-ear audio output device includes an acoustic chamber defined by an earbud housing shaped to fit in the lower concha of an ear of a wearer of the in-ear audio output device, the earbud housing comprising: a resistive port located on a first side of the earbud housing creating an opening in a wall of the earbud housing and a first feedforward microphone located on a second side of the earbud housing, the second side substantially opposite the first side of the earbud housing; and a stability band. The stability band includes at least one attachment feature that couples the stability band to the earbud housing and a first side substantially opposite the attachment feature that only partially covers the resistive port when the in-ear audio output device is positioned in the ear of the wearer.
Various implementations include earphone cushions and related headsets. In particular aspects, an earphone cushion includes: a body including a front surface configured to engage or surround an ear of a user, an outer side surface, an inner side surface opposing the outer side surface, and a rear surface opposing the front surface; a cover over a portion of the body, the cover including an outside radiating surface for contacting at least a portion of the user's head, wherein the cover includes a set of ports along at least one of (i) the inner side surface, (ii) the rear surface, or (iii) a junction between the inner side surface and the rear surface; and an acoustic mesh covering at least one port in the set of ports.
Aspects describe air flow relief features in the cosmetic surface of the housing of an in-ear audio output device. Due to design constraints based, at least in part, on the limited space available in the acoustic chamber and ear geometry, ports coupling the acoustic chamber with an area outside the housing are susceptible to full blockage when placed in-ear. Air flow relief channels for ports, extending from the port aligned in the concha cymba, over the helix crus, to the cymba cavum minimize complete blockages of the port as compared to current designs.
Methods, devices, and systems are provided for synchronizing a source device with a sink device. In some examples, the source device plays first audio using, e.g., an electro-acoustic transducer. The source device transmits a stream of packets to the sink device to be used by the sink device for playing second audio, where the playing of the second audio is to be synchronized within a predefined tolerance with the playing of the first audio. In response to determining there is a delay in average packet arrival times of the stream of packets at the sink device, the source device adjusts the playing of the first audio to maintain synchronization with the playing of the second audio within the predefined tolerance.
Methods for providing a customized audio experience to a user of an audio output device are provided. A user interface is provided on a user device communicatively coupled to the audio output device, the user interface capable of accepting user input for managing the audio experience for the user. A set of activities is provided via the user interface, wherein each activity in the set invokes a set of behaviors configured for the activity for providing the customized audio experience to the user, wherein each behavior in the set customizes the audio experience for the user. A capability is provided via the user interface for the user to launch an activity from the set for invoking the set of behaviors configured for the activity to receive the customized audio experience.
A system and method for externalizing sound. The system includes a headphone assembly and a localizer configured to collect information related to a location of the user and of an acoustically reflective surface in the environment. A controller is configured to determine a location of at least one virtual sound source, and generate head related transfer functions that simulate characteristics of sound from the virtual sound source directly to the user and to the user via a reflection by the reflective surface. A signal processing assembly is configured to create one or more output signals by filtering the sound signal respectively with the HRTFs. Each speaker of the headphone assembly is configured to produce sound in accordance with the output signal.
A method of determining an audio controller for a headphone that is configured to use an acoustic transducer to develop sound that is delivered to an ear of a user and that includes a feedback microphone that is configured to sense sound developed by the acoustic transducer, and a related computer program product and system. A first audio transfer function between the acoustic transducer and the feedback microphone is measured. A second audio transfer function between the acoustic transducer and the feedback microphone with a feedback controller applied is determined. The audio controller is calculated based on both the first audio transfer function and the second audio transfer function.
G10K 11/178 - Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound by electro-acoustically regenerating the original acoustic waves in anti-phase
Various implementations include seats and related loudspeakers. In particular cases, a seat includes: a seat headrest portion; a seat backrest portion; and a loudspeaker assembly. The loudspeaker assembly includes at least one driver for generating an acoustic output; and an acoustic exit fixed in the seat backrest portion and angled to provide the acoustic output to a location below a nominal ear position of an occupant of the seat, wherein a firing angle of the at least one driver provides the acoustic output to achieve a consistent frequency response across a range of positions deviating from the nominal ear position.
B60N 2/879 - Head-rests with additional features not related to head-rest positioning, e.g. heating or cooling devices or loudspeakers
B60R 11/02 - Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for for radio sets, television sets, telephones, or the like; Arrangement of controls thereof
H04R 1/26 - Spatial arrangement of separate transducers responsive to two or more frequency ranges
H04R 1/32 - Arrangements for obtaining desired frequency or directional characteristics for obtaining desired directional characteristic only
H04R 5/02 - Spatial or constructional arrangements of loudspeakers
88.
Wearable audio device zero-crossing based parasitic oscillation detection
A method for detecting and mitigating parasitic oscillation in a headphone equipped with an active noise reduction (ANR) system. A fundamental frequency of a microphone signal is determined from a microphone of the ANR system and an amplitude of the determined fundamental frequency is compared to a threshold level to determine parasitic oscillation. If parasitic oscillation is determined, then the microphone signal is altered to mitigate the parasitic oscillation.
Articles and methods are provided for miniature acoustic transducers having highly compliant suspension systems despite their small size. In various examples the suspension system is molded of a liquid silicone rubber (LSR) and is molded in an interior cavity geometry that includes and apex radially offset and/or axially offset from a desired cured position of an apex of the suspension.
B29C 45/14 - Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mould; Apparatus therefor incorporating preformed parts or layers, e.g. injection moulding around inserts or for coating articles
A flexible arm that is configured to be located between and physically and electrically connect an acoustic module of an open-ear headphone to a battery housing of the open-ear headphone. The flexible arm defines an original resting length and position between the acoustic module and the battery housing. The flexible arm includes a flexible printed circuit that extends through the entire original resting length of the flexible arm and comprises a conductor that is configured to carry electrical energy between the acoustic module and the battery housing. A first interface structure is coupled to one of the acoustic module and the battery housing. A flexible material encases at least some of the flexible printed circuit and at least some of the first interface structure.
An acoustic device including a first passive radiator structure and a second passive radiator structure is provided. The first passive radiator structure includes a passive diaphragm mechanically coupled to a first enclosure member via a first flexible suspension element, and is configured to vibrate relative to the first enclosure member. The second passive radiator structure includes a second enclosure member, and is configured to vibrate relative to the first enclosure member. The second passive radiator structure further includes a second flexible suspension element mechanically coupled to the first enclosure member and the second enclosure member. The second passive radiator structure further includes an active electro-acoustic transducer mechanically coupled to the second enclosure member. The second passive radiator structure moves when the active electro-acoustic transducer vibrates. A first mass of the first passive radiator structure is less than a second mass of the second passive radiator structure. During operation, the first enclosure member experiences substantially no vibrations.
H04R 1/28 - Transducer mountings or enclosures designed for specific frequency response; Transducer enclosures modified by provision of mechanical or acoustic impedances, e.g. resonator, damping means
The disclosed systems and method provide for an audio playback device to form a Bluetooth connection with an audio source device based on audio generated by an acoustic transducer. The audio is encoded with Bluetooth connectivity data corresponding to the audio source device. The acoustic transducer can be arranged on the audio source device, or it can be arranged on an audio playback device connected to the audio source device via a Bluetooth connection. The audio is received by a microphone of an audio playback device. The audio playback device then extracts the Bluetooth connectivity information from the audio, and forms a Bluetooth connection with the audio source device. If the Bluetooth connection is a Broadcast Audio stream, as defined by the LE Audio standard, multiple audio playback devices can be able to connect audio source device, allowing for a communal listening experience.
A first input signal captured by one or more sensors associated with an ANR headphone is received. A frequency domain representation of the first input signal is computed for a set of discrete frequencies, based on which a set of parameters is generated for a digital filter disposed in an ANR signal flow path of the ANR headphone, the set of parameters being such that a loop gain of the ANR signal flow path substantially matches a target loop gain. Generating the set of parameters comprises: adjusting a response of the digital filter at frequencies (e.g., spanning between 200 Hz-5 kHz). A response of at least 3 second order sections of the digital filter is adjusted. A second input signal in the ANR signal flow path is processed using the generated set of parameters to generate an output signal for driving the electroacoustic transducer of the ANR headphone.
G10K 11/178 - Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound by electro-acoustically regenerating the original acoustic waves in anti-phase
Various implementations include approaches for establishing a Bluetooth (BT) connection between devices. One example approach includes: in response to a trigger at a first Bluetooth (BT) device, attempting to determine a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) from each of a set of additional Bluetooth (BT) devices paired to the first BT device, in response to determining the RSSI for a first additional BT device and a second additional BT device in the set of additional BT devices, determining if the RSSI of each of the first additional BT device and the second additional BT device satisfies a threshold, and in response to determining that the RSSI of both the first additional BT device and the second additional BT device satisfy the threshold, selecting either the first additional BT device or the second additional BT device for connection with the first BT device.
Various implementations include systems for providing enhanced aware mode capabilities in an ANR audio device. In particular implementations, a method includes receiving an ambient noise signal from a microphone associated with a wearable audio device; determining a gain value based on a sound pressure level (SPL) of the ambient noise signal; generating a gain adjusted ambient noise signal by applying the gain value to the ambient noise signal; generating a total external microphone signal by adding the gain adjusted ambient noise signal to a noise reducing ambient signal; generating an expanded audio signal by selectively adjusting a source audio signal based on the gain adjusted ambient noise signal; and combining and outputting the expanded audio signal with the total external microphone signal to an acoustic transducer.
G10K 11/178 - Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound by electro-acoustically regenerating the original acoustic waves in anti-phase
An open audio device includes an acoustic module and a body that supports the acoustic module. The acoustic module is configured to be located at least in part on the outer ear and defines a first sound-emitting opening that is configured to be proximate but spaced from the user's ear canal. The body includes a housing and a bridge that couples the acoustic module to the housing. The housing is configured to be located behind an outer ear of a user and in contact with at least one of the outer ear and the head proximate the intersection of the head and the outer ear. The bridge is constructed to have bending compliance.
An ear tip includes a body configured to be mounted onto an earbud. The body includes a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a first wall extending between the first and second ends. The first wall defines and surrounds a hollow passage that is configured to conduct sound waves. The first wall is configured to engage a nozzle on the earbud. The first wall includes a ring that is formed of a rigid material and engages the nozzle. The ring includes at least one C-shaped member with at least one gap and a compliant material is molded around the ring and fills the gap.
A hearing aid (600) includes an earpiece (602), a casing (604), and coupling member (612). The earpiece (602) is configured to sit at least partially within the user’s ear canal when worn. The casing (604) supports a sound processor (608) and a microphone (606) and is configured to sit behind a users ear and in contact with the user’s pinna when worn. The coupling member (612) couples the casing (604) to the earpiece (602). The coupling member (612) has an effective length that is adjustable to accommodate users with different ear geometries.
Various aspects include a wearable audio device having active noise reduction (ANR). In some cases, an ANR system for a wearable audio device includes: a fixed filter that receives a signal from a feedback microphone and outputs a noise reduction signal, where the fixed filter is configured to provide ANR with a nominal loop gain; and a tunable filter that outputs an adjusted noise reduction signal by modulating the nominal loop gain in response to low frequency noise being detected in the noise reduction signal, where modulating the nominal loop gain includes reducing low frequency ANR performance.
G10K 11/178 - Methods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general using interference effects; Masking sound by electro-acoustically regenerating the original acoustic waves in anti-phase
Various aspects include electronic devices with connection-enhancing, electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection features. In some examples, an electronic device includes: a housing; and a detent spring internal to the housing, where the detent spring (i) is positioned to contact a feature that is at least partially external to the housing and (ii) functions as an electrostatic discharge (ESD) sink.