HEADSET TERMINAL WITH REAR STABILITY STRAP
A headset adapted to be positioned on a head includes a headband assembly for spanning across the head of a user. An earcup assembly is coupled proximate one end of the headband assembly. A power source assembly is coupled proximate the other end of the headband assembly. A flexible stabilizing strap has a first end coupled to the headset proximate the earcup assembly and a second end coupled to the headset terminal proximate the power source assembly. The strap includes a first band portion that couples with a second band portion, at least one band portion including a plurality of coupling positions along its length for adjustably coupling with the other band portion at different lengths to vary the overall length of the flexible stabilizing strap. The stabilizing strap is adapted to engage the head of a user to further stabilize the headset on the head.
This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/388,081 filed on Mar. 23, 2006, and entitled HEADSET TERMINAL WITH REAR STABILITY STRAP, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/347,979 filed on Feb. 6, 2006, and entitled VOICE-ENABLED MOBILE COMPUTER INTEGRATED WITHIN A WIRELESS HEADSET, which applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.
FIELD OF THE INVENTIONThis invention relates generally to portable or mobile computer terminals and more specifically to mobile terminals that may be worn on a user's head.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONWearable, mobile and/or portable computer terminals are used for a wide variety of tasks. Such terminals allow the workers using them (“users”) to maintain mobility, while providing the worker with desirable computing and data-processing functions. Furthermore, such terminals often provide a communication link to a larger, more centralized computer system that directs the work and activities of the user and processes any collected data.
Computerized work management systems with mobile terminals are used in various industries, such as food and retail product distribution, manufacturing, quality control, and health care, for example. An overall integrated work management system may utilize a central computer system that runs the program. A plurality of mobile terminals is employed by the users of the system to communicate (usually in a wireless fashion) with the central system for the product handling. The users perform various tasks per instructions they receive through the terminals, via the central system. The terminals also allow the users to interface with the computer system, such as to enter data, to respond to inquiries or confirm the completion of certain tasks.
To provide an interface between the central computer system and the workers, such mobile terminals and the central systems to which they are connected may be voice-driven or speech-driven; i.e., the system operates using human speech. Speech is synthesized and played to the user, via the mobile terminal, to direct the tasks of the user and collect data. The user then answers or asks questions; and the speech recognition capabilities of the mobile terminal convert the user speech to a form suitable for use by the terminal and central system. Thereby, a bi-directional communication stream of information is exchanged over a wireless network between the wireless wearable terminals and the central computer system using speech.
Conventionally, mobile computer terminals having voice or speech capabilities utilize a headset device that is coupled to the mobile terminal. The terminal may be worn on the body of a user, such as around the waist, and the headset connects to the terminal, such as with a cord or cable. The headset has a microphone for capturing the voice of the user for voice data entry and commands, and also includes one or more ear speakers for both confirming the spoken words of the user and also for playing voice instructions and other audio that are generated or synthesized by the terminal. Therefore, in some mobile terminal systems, headsets are matched with respective terminals and worn by the user to operate in conjunction with the terminals.
One drawback with some systems is that the headset is attached to a terminal with a cord, which extends generally from the terminal (typically worn on a belt) to the head of the worker where the headset is located. As may be appreciated, the workers are moving rapidly around their work area and are often jumping on and off forklifts, pallet loaders, and other equipment. Therefore, there is a possibility for a cord to get caught on some object, such as a forklift. When this occurs, the cord will tend to want to separate either from the headset or from the terminal, thus requiring repair or replacement.
Attempts have been made to eliminate the cords between the headset and mobile terminals by using wireless headsets and provide the functionality of the terminal in the actual headset. For example, U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 11/388,081 and 11/347,979 noted above disclose headsets that have the functionality of terminals.
Any solution to the above-noted issues involving either a traditional headset and terminal or a wireless headset and terminal must address wearability and control issues by providing a headset that is operable on both sides of the head without a significant positional shift in the layout of the terminal and its controls. Furthermore, since the headset terminal is worn for extended periods on the head, it must be comfortable for the user and readily positioned on either side of the head. Weight is also a consideration, as is stability of the headset. Headsets utilized for voice directed work are worn by users that are generally in constant motion; therefore, the motion stability of a headset is important. This is particularly so for wireless headset terminals that often have a heavy battery or other power supply on one side. At the same time, the headset must not be so constricting or have such light contact points, that it would be too uncomfortable to wear during a typical shift. Still further, since head sizes vary, a headset should have adjustability to address the needs of different users.
While various headsets have been proposed to address issues noted above, there is still a need for advancement in the art of headsets. Particularly there is a need to improve upon existing headset technology for headsets that incorporate a computer for voice-directed work applications.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGSThe accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with a general description of the invention given above and the Detailed Description given below, serve to explain the invention.
The present invention is directed to a unique headset configuration. One embodiment of the present invention is a speech-enabled mobile computer in the form of a wireless headset for handling speech-directed applications that require high mobility and high data transmission speed, such as warehousing, manufacturing, pharmaceutical, logging, and defense applications. The headset terminal of the present invention provides full speech functionality, is ultra lightweight, i.e., less than 10 ounces, provides full shift operation on a single battery charge, and includes a modular architecture that allows the separation of the “personal” components of the wireless headset mobile computer, i.e., those that touch the user's head, ears, or mouth, from the non-personal expensive electronics and, thereby, promotes good hygiene and low cost of ownership. The embodiment of the present invention provides the full speech functionality of a Vocollect TALKMAN® or T2® or T5® which is sold by Vocollect of Pittsburgh, Pa., the owner of the present application.
The mobile headset of the invention also incorporates unique features in its controls, headband structure, battery configuration and microphone/speaker assembly, that enhance the operation, comfort, durability, versatility and robustness of the headset. While one particular embodiment of the invention as discussed herein is in the form of a fully speech-enabled mobile headset terminal, the various aspects of the headset design as disclosed herein are equally applicable in a stand-alone headset that operates with a separate, body-worn, mobile computer terminal. That is, the headset features disclosed herein are also equally applicable to a conventional headset that couples by wire or wirelessly to a body-worn terminal. The features of the invention, for example, are applicable to use with the wireless headset and system set forth in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/303,271, entitled WIRELESS HEADSET AND METHOD FOR ROBUST VOICE DATA COMMUNICATION, filed Dec. 16, 2005, which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Furthermore, the aspects of the invention have applicability to headsets in general, and not just to those used in conjunction with mobile terminals. Therefore, various aspects of the present invention are not limited only to mobile speech terminals and similar applications, but have applicability to headsets in general, wired or wireless. Of course, the aspects of the invention have particular applicability to wireless headsets and mobile headset terminals.
Headset terminal 50 includes one or more printed circuit boards (PCBs) 10 that contain the electronic components of the headset terminal. For example, the PCB 10 might be located in the earcup assembly 52 of headset terminal 50 as shown in
For example, headset terminal may operate with the functionality of the system disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/247,291 entitled INTEGRATED WEARABLE TERMINAL FOR VOICE-DIRECTED WORK AND RFID IDENTIFICATION/VERIFICATION, filed Oct. 11, 2005, which application is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. To that end, the processor 12 may include the necessary speech recognition/synthesis circuitry for voice or speech applications, such as those applications that direct the work of a user. The headset terminal supports various operator languages, with a wide range of text-to-speech functionality. Terminal 50 is also configured with “record and playback” technology. Terminal 50 and processor 12 are configured, as appropriate, to be fully functional with existing Talkman™ software infrastructure components, including Voice Console™, Voice Link™ and Voice Builder™ components available from Vocollect.
Wireless headset terminal 50 is a strong, lightweight computer terminal that is especially designed for use in industrial environments. The terminal may operate in an environment −30° C. to 50° C. The user wears headset terminal 50 on their head and, thus, retains full freedom of movement. There are no exposed wires or cords to get caught or snagged. Through speaker 28, the operator receives information or commands in a speech or voice format and responds directly to the commands by speaking into a microphone 26. All information is relayed, in real time or batch mode, to and from a central computer (not shown) through a wireless RF network (not shown), as is known in the art of speech-enabled systems.
Processor/CPU 12 is a general-purpose processor for managing the overall operation of wireless headset terminal 50. Processor/CPU 12 may be, for example, a 600 MHz INTEL® XScale™ processor, or other processor, indicative of currently available technology. The XScale™ processor combines the processor and memory in a small square device. Processor 12 is capable of handling various speech recognition algorithms and speech synthesis algorithms without the need for additional speech recognition technology, such as ASICs or DSP components. Processor 12, in one embodiment, thus includes speech recognition circuitry and speech synthesis circuitry for recognizing and synthesizing speech. Processor 12 also includes suitable software for providing speech applications, such as work applications to communicate activity information with a user by speech and also to collect data from the user about the activity also using speech. Such speech applications as used for worker direction are known and are available from Vocollect, Inc., Pittsburgh, Pa. Processor 12 is suitably electrically connected to the various components of the terminal as shown in
The audio input/output stage 14 receives an audio signal from microphone 26, which may be a standard boom-mounted, directional, noise-canceling microphone that is positioned near the user's mouth. Audio input/output stage 14 also provides a standard audio output circuit for driving speaker 28, which may be a standard audio speaker located in the earcup of wireless headset terminal 50 as shown in
WLAN radio component 18 is a standard WLAN radio that uses well-known wireless networking technology, such as WiFi, for example, that allows multiple devices to share a single high-speed connection for a WLAN. WLAN refers to any type of wireless local area network, including 802.11b, 802.11a, and 802.11 g and a full 801.22i wireless security suite. WLAN radio 18 is integrated into wireless headset terminal 50. Furthermore, WLAN radio 18 provides high bandwidth that is suitable for handling applications that require high data transmission speed, such as warehousing, manufacturing, pharmaceutical, logging, and defense applications. WLAN radio 18 may be used for transmitting data in real time or in batch form to/from the central computer 19 and receiving work applications, tasks or assignments, for example.
User interface 20 provides control of the headset terminal and is coupled with suitable control components 64, such as control buttons as illustrated in
WPAN interface device 22 is a component that permits communication in a wireless personal area network (WPAN), such as Bluetooth, for example, which is a wireless network for interconnecting devices centered around a person's workspace, e.g., the headset terminal user's workspace. The WPAN interface device 22 allows terminal 50 to interface with any WPAN-compatible, body-worn wireless peripheral devices associated with the terminal user, such as Bluetooth devices.
Battery pack 30 is a lightweight, rechargeable power source that provides suitable power for running terminal 50 and its components. Battery pack 30, for example, may include one or more lithium-sulfur batteries that have suitable capacity to provide full shift operation of wireless headset terminal 50 on a single charge.
As noted,
Headset 50 includes an earcup structure or assembly 52 connected with an opposing power source/electronics structure or assembly 54. As may be appreciated, the earcup assembly 52 couples with the ear of a user while the power source/electronics assembly 54 sits on the opposite side of a user's head. Both structures 52, 54 are coupled together by a headband assembly 56 as discussed further hereinbelow. Headset 50 incorporates various features of the invention. In one embodiment of the invention, the headset 50 itself is a fully-operable, voice-enabled mobile computer terminal that includes the necessary electronics, as discussed above, to provide speech recognition and speech synthesis for various speech-directed applications. To that end, the electronics, which would be incorporated on a suitable printed circuit board 10, may be located in either the earcup assembly 52 and/or the power supply/electronics assembly 54. The earcup assembly 52 is adjustable as discussed further hereinbelow and shown in
The earcup assembly 52 includes a housing 58 which houses the various components of the earcup assembly, such as a speaker 28, and supports the boom assembly 62 that may include electronics 10, including any electronics which might be utilized to make the headset a mobile terminal for voice applications as shown in
The headband assembly 56 includes two transverse bands 74a, 74b which extend from side-to-side across a user's head to hold the earcup assembly 52 and power source/electronics assembly 54 on the user's head, in a somewhat typical headband fashion. The multiple transverse bands assure a secure fit on the user's head and may include cushions or pads 76, also made of foam or another suitable material for comfort and fit. A stabilizing strap 78 intersects the two transverse bands 74a, 74b and is coupled to each transverse band respectively with a clip 80 or other suitable fixation structure. The stabilizing strap 78 is free to slide through the clips for positioning between the transverse bands. The stabilizing strap 78 also extends partially along the back of the user's head and/or the forehead, as desired by the user, to provide additional stability to headset terminal 50. The strap may slide back and forth so that the headset terminal 50 may be worn on either side of the head. At the end of the stabilizing strap 78 are stop structures 82 and respective cushions 84. The stop structures limit the sliding of the stabilizing strap 78 through the clips 80, so the stabilizing strap cannot be slid past the endmost position. The cushions 84 provide suitable comfort for the user.
Stabilizing strap 78 provides a significant advantage in combination with the multiple transverse bands 74a, 74b. As may be appreciated, the headset terminal 50 may carry significant weight when utilized as a mobile, voice-enabled terminal with suitable processing electronics and a power source, such as a battery. The battery in particular, located in power source/electronics assembly 54 is oftentimes significantly heavy so as to cause a stability issue. The present invention, which utilizes multiple transverse bands 74a, 74b coupled with a stabilizing strap 78, provides the desired stability and comfort for the user. Furthermore, headset terminal 50, is utilized in environments wherein the user is moving very rapidly through multiple tasks and is bending over and standing up quite often. Therefore, the increased stability of the headset provided by one aspect of the present invention is certainly a desirable feature. The power source/electronics assembly 54, as illustrated in
The UP and DOWN buttons 102, 104 are coupled to user interface components 20 and may provide a way of moving through various control menus provided by software that is run by the headset terminal 50. For example, the buttons might provide UP/DOWN volume control or allow UP/DOWN scrolling through a menu. The buttons might also have the functionality of turning the headset terminal ON and OFF or providing any of a variety of different controls for the headset terminal. Accordingly, while the buttons 102, 104 of controls 64 are indicated as UP/DOWN buttons herein, that terminology is not limiting with respect to their functionality. Furthermore, while two buttons are illustrated in the Figures of this application, multiple other control buttons or controls might be utilized in accordance with the principles of the present invention.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the buttons 102, 104 are positioned on opposite sides of the boom assembly rotation axis 106 as illustrated in
For example, as illustrated in
Along those lines, the stabilizing strap 78 as illustrated in
In one embodiment of the invention, an auxiliary microphone 27 might be utilized to reduce noise, to determine when the user speaks into the microphone 26 or for other purposes (see
Turning again to
Turning now to the boom assembly 62, one section of the boom housing 132 cooperates with another section 134 of the boom housing in a clamshell fashion to capture a printed circuit board 124 and an anchor structure 136 for the boom arm 108. A portion of the anchor structure is captured between the sides of the boom housing sections 132, 134. Controls 64 are appropriately and operationally coupled with the boom housing 132, 134 and printed circuit board 124 through a mounting bracket 65 as illustrated in
Printed circuit board 124 contains one or more of the components illustrated on PCB 10 in
The boom assembly housing, and particularly section 134 of the housing rotatably interfaces with the retainer 126 which is secured with earcup housing 58. More specifically, the present invention provides a snap retaining arrangement which secures the rotating boom assembly 62 with adequate bearing surfaces in the earcup housing 58. The present invention does so without shoulder screws, washers, or other elements, which have traditionally resided in or through valuable circuit board space. The boom assembly 62 readily snaps in place with housing 58 and freely rotates therewith as necessary for utilization of the headset terminal 50 on either the right side of the head or the left side of the head. Furthermore, the rotating boom assembly provides adjustment of the microphone 26 with respect to the user's mouth.
More specifically, referring to
The unique snap fit provided by the invention eliminates the screws, washers and other fasteners engaging the circuit board 124. Thus the entire board may be used for electronic components. Therefore, a greater amount of the circuit board may be used for the processing circuitry 12, such as for voice processing in accordance with one aspect of the invention. The invention thus provides sufficient board space while keeping the headset terminal 50 small and lightweight. Component costs are further reduced, as are assembly costs and time. The boom assembly 62, housing 58 and other components might be made of a suitable, lightweight plastic.
Turning now to
Specifically, as illustrated in
Referring now to
In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the headset terminal 50 is configured so that the cable 160 articulates completely within the structures of the headset terminal and is hidden thereby. The effective length of the cable 160 may dynamically change while adjusting the headset fit due to the unique configuration of saddle 72 and the sliding arm 68 in hiding and guiding the cable, and providing protection and control of the cable dynamics. Referring to
When the headset terminal 50 is adjusted so that the earcup assembly is moved as shown by reference arrows 182 in
Referring again to
Referring to
Referring to
The snap retention ribs 213 and specifically the stop surfaces 211 are normal to the sliding plane of the latch as illustrated by reference arrow 230 in
In another aspect of the invention, the modular architecture of wireless headset terminal 50 allows the separation of the “personal” components of headset terminal 50, i.e., those that touch the user's head, ears, or mouth, from the non-personal, expensive electronics since the headset is a unitary system with no separate body-worn terminal.
In single shift operations, the entire wireless headset terminal 50 is placed in the charger while not in use. In multi-shift operations, the personal components can be removed from the terminal 50 so the terminal might be reused. Referring to
In use, one typical operation of terminal 50 might be as follows. At the beginning of a shift, a user selects any available terminal at their workplace from a pool of terminals. The user then assembles their personal items to the earcup assembly and microphone boom assembly. In particular, the user might secure pad 60 to the earcup assembly. A fresh battery 92 might be installed and latched. The user may then install their microphone windscreen 29 onto microphone 26 of microphone boom assembly 62. Once all assembly is complete, the user places wireless headset terminal 50 on their head, such that earpad 60 is in contact with their ear, microphone 26 is positioned in close proximity to their mouth, and headpad 96 is in contact with their head. The user then activates terminal 50 by use of controls 64 of user interface 20 and, as a result, power is delivered from battery 92 to wireless headset terminal 50. Subsequently, program and product data may be loaded from a central system (not shown) into terminal 50 via the Wi-Fi radio aspects. Voice commands are processed by CPU 12 and the appropriate response is generated, which is directed digitally to audio input/output stage 14. Audio input/output stage 14 then converts the digital data to an analog audio signal, which is transmitted to speaker 28. Subsequently, the user hears spoken words through speaker 28 and takes action accordingly. The user may then speak into microphone 26, which generates an analog audio signal, that is then transmitted to audio input/output stage 14. Audio input/output stage 14 then converts the analog signal to a digital word that represents the audio sound received from microphone 26 and, subsequently, CPU 12 processes the information. During the operation of headset terminal 50, data within memory 16 or CPU 12 is being updated continuously with a record of task data, under the control of CPU 12. Furthermore, radio transmission occurs between Wi-Fi radio 18 and a central computer (not shown) through a wireless RF network for transmitting or receiving task data in real time or batch form. When the user has completed their tasks, such as at the end of a shift, the user removes headset terminal 50 from their head and deactivates the headset with the controls 64.
In one embodiment, wireless headset terminal 50, in addition to the noted features above, provides the following features:
-
- Instant response from full, on-board speech recognition and synthesis, powered by a 600 MHz INTEL® XScale™ processor
- Fully secure, standards-based host computer communications, with integrated support for both 802.11b and 802.11g
- Support for a wide variety of Bluetooth-compatible, body-worn wireless peripherals, through integrated Bluetooth V1.2 hardware (optional)
- User performance and productivity maximized through outstanding ergonomics, combined with maximum durability for rugged environments
- Full shift operation, combined with absolute minimum weight
- A secondary microphone, integrated into the earpiece, provides even greater immunity to background noise, which further enhances user productivity
- Integration of headset and electronics eliminates all the issues associated with wired or wireless connections between hand-held or belt-mounted devices and headsets.
As noted above, the headset terminal 50 may carry significant weight when utilized as a mobile, voice-enabled terminal with suitable processing electronics and a power source, such as a battery. The battery in particular is oftentimes significantly heavy so as to cause a stability issue. For instance, such stability issues may arise when the head is not in an upright position or during rapid head movements. The traditional manner for correcting stability issues is to increase the clamping force of the headset to the head of a user. This approach, however, results in the headset being relatively uncomfortable, especially when worn over an extended period of time. Thus, it is desirable to provide a headset that may handle significant weight thereon but is still stable even during rapid motions or atypical head positions that do not sacrifice comfort. One embodiment of such a headset includes the headband assembly 56 shown in
The elongate band 234 includes a first end 240 adapted to be coupled proximate to one of the assemblies 52, 54 and a second, opposed end 242 adapted to be coupled proximate to the other assembly 52, 54. The elongate band 234 further includes a first surface 244 adapted to confront the back of the head when being worn by a user, and a second surface 246 facing opposite to the first surface 244. In an exemplary embodiment, the elongate band 234 has a composite construction comprising a foam layer sandwiched between two pieces of coverstock that are, for example, stitched together to secure the foam layer therebetween. The coverstock may be formed from leather, vinyl, cloth and other materials and configured to provide an aesthetic appearance. For example, the coverstock may be a faux leather. The coverstock is adapted to provide not only an aesthetic appearance, but also adapted to provide a structural aspect to the band 234 sufficient to withstand the tensile and other forces applied to the strap during normal usage. The foam layer, which may be either open or closed cell foam, is adapted to provide a relatively soft, more-comfortable strap. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the elongate band 234 may be formed from other materials including various synthetic or natural materials. Those of ordinary skill in the art will further recognize that the band 234 is not limited to a composite structure as other unitary structures may be used that satisfy both the structural aspect and aesthetic aspects. For instance, NEOPRENE® and other synthetic or natural rubber could be used to make elongate band 234.
As shown in
As mentioned above, the connecting member 236 is adapted to be coupled to headset terminal 230 proximate earcup assembly 52. This coupling is configured so that the connecting member 236 has minimal contact with the head. More particularly, as the components of the connecting member 236 may be metal or other relatively rigid materials, it is desirable that these components do not contact the head to cause discomfort to the wearer. In one embodiment, the clip 256 may be adapted to couple to the eyelet 258 positioned on a base or lower portion of sliding arm 68 and above the earcup housing 58. In particular, the eyelet 258 may be positioned on an inner surface 260 of the sliding arm 68 and sufficiently spaced from earcup housing 58 so that the connecting member 236 does not have or has minimal contact with the head or ear of the user. The eyelet 258 may be integrally formed with the sliding arm 68, such as through a molding process, or may be a separate piece coupled to sliding arm through some other process, such as sonic welding, adhesive bonding, friction or snap fit, etc. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the hook 256 may couple to the headset terminal 230 proximate the earcup assembly 52 at other locations so that contact between the connecting member 236 and the head is prevented or minimized. For instance, the connecting member 236 may be coupled to the headset terminal 230 at the earcup assembly 52 itself, such as along the earcup housing 58.
As shown in
In another aspect, the coupling between the headset terminal 230 and the stabilizing strap 232 may be configured to ensure that the strap 232 may be used regardless of the side of the head on which the earcup assembly 52 and power source/electronics assembly 54 are positioned. In particular, a user utilizing the headset terminal 230 may want to position the earcup assembly 52 such that it is either over the right ear or the left ear. Thus, it is desirable that the strap 232 operate in a similar manner no matter what ear the earcup assembly 52 is positioned. To this end, the connecting elements on the headset terminal 230 (i.e., eyelet 258 and cross bar 266) to which the strap 232 couples may advantageously be located along a central plane 290 of the headset terminal 230. Coupling the strap 230 to the headset terminal 230 within central plane 290 creates a symmetric configuration that permits the strap to couple to the headset and operate in a similar manner. In this way, the stabilizing strap 232 is reversible and can be used no matter what orientation the headset terminal 230 is placed on the head.
In another aspect of the invention, the stabilizing strap 232 may be configured to be adjustable. To this end, the elongate band 234 may include a first band portion 272 and a second band portion 274 that cooperate so as provide an adjustment feature. The first band portion 272 includes an end coupled to the earcup assembly 52 in a manner described above and the second band portion 272 includes an end coupled to the power source/electronics assembly 54 as described above. In one embodiment, the second band portion 274 includes an enclosed slot or opening 276 adapted to receive the first band portion 272. In particular, the first band portion 272 may be inserted through slot 276 and folded back on itself to form a loop 278 and defining a free end 280 (
In use, the stabilizing strap 232 may be tightened by releasing the hook and loop fasteners and pulling on the free end 280 so that an additional length of the first band portion 272 is passed through slot 276. Once the desired tightening has been achieved, the hook and loop fasteners 275, 277 are re-engaged to secure the first and second band portions 272, 274 together. In a similar manner, the stabilizing strap 232 may be loosened by releasing the hook and loop fasteners and feeding a length of the free end back through slot 276. Once the desired amount of loosening has been achieve, the hook and loop fasteners are re-engaged to secure the first and second band portions 272, 274 together.
As shown in
Similar to the elongate band 234 in the previous embodiment, the elongate band 334 includes a first end 340 adapted to be coupled proximate to one of the assemblies 52, 54 and a second, opposed end 342 adapted to be coupled proximate to the other assembly 52, 54. The elongate band 334 further includes a first surface 344 adapted to confront the back of the head when being worn by a user, and a second surface 346 facing opposite to the first surface 344.
In an exemplary embodiment, the elongate band 334 may have a composite construction, as with the stabilizing strap 232 in the previous embodiment, comprising a foam layer sandwiched between two pieces of coverstock that are, for example, stitched together to secure the foam layer therebetween. The coverstock may be formed from leather, vinyl, cloth and other materials and configured to provide an aesthetic appearance. For example, the coverstock may be a faux leather. The coverstock is adapted to provide not only an aesthetic appearance, but also adapted to provide a structural aspect to the band 334 sufficient to withstand the tensile and other forces applied to the strap during normal usage. The foam layer, which may be either open or closed cell foam, is adapted to provide a relatively soft, more-comfortable strap. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the elongate band 334 may be formed from other materials including various synthetic or natural materials. Those of ordinary skill in the art will further recognize that the band 334 is not limited to a composite structure as other unitary structures may be used that satisfy both the structural aspect and aesthetic aspects. For instance, NEOPRENE® and other synthetic or natural rubber could be used to make elongate band 334.
As shown in
As shown in
In another aspect, the coupling between the headset terminal 230 and the stabilizing strap 332 may be configured to ensure that the strap 332 may be used regardless of the side of the head on which the earcup assembly 52 and power source/electronics assembly 54 are positioned. In particular, a user utilizing the headset terminal 230 may want to position the earcup assembly 52 such that it is either over the right ear or the left ear. Thus, it is desirable that the strap 332 operate in a similar manner no matter what ear the earcup assembly 52 is positioned. To this end and as with the discussion of the previous embodiment above, the connecting elements on the headset terminal 230 (i.e., eyelet 258 and cross bar 266) to which the strap 332 couples may advantageously be located along a central plane 290 of the headset terminal 230.
In another aspect of the invention, the stabilizing strap 332 may be configured to be adjustable. To this end, the elongate band 334 may include a first band portion 372 and a second band portion 374 that cooperate so as provide an adjustment feature. The first band portion 372 includes an end coupled to the earcup assembly 52 in a manner described above and the second band portion 374 includes an end coupled to the power source/electronics assembly 54 as described above.
In one embodiment, the second band portion 374 includes a plurality of enclosed slots or openings 376 adapted to receive the first band portion 372. The openings 376 are formed along the length of band portion 374 in various spacing intervals to achieve the desired adjustability of the headset. In particular, for one method of adjustment, the first band portion 372 may be inserted through any of the plurality of slots 376 and folded back on itself to form a loop 378 and defining a free end 380 (
As with the previous embodiment and in an exemplary embodiment, the free end 380 and first band portion 372 may be fastened by a hook and loop fastener, such as VELCRO®. For instance, the second surface 346 of the first band portion 372 may include one of the hook and loop fasteners along selected portions thereof and spaced from free end 380 shown schematically at 375. The second surface 346 of the first band portion 372 proximate free end 380 may include the other of the hook and loop fasteners shown schematically at 377. In this way, when the first band portion 372 is folded back on itself, the fasteners 375, 377 confront each other and may be pressed together to achieve the fastening.
In another adjustment method, the fasteners 375, 377 might be undone to allow the stabilizing strap to be pulled out of an existing slot 376 and then threaded through another slot 376 closer to or further from the assembly 54. The free end 380 may then be folded back to secure the band portion 372 with band portions 374. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize a wide range of fasteners that may be used to achieve the adjustability of the stabilizing strap 332 such as with snaps, buttons, etc.
In use, the stabilizing strap 332 may be tightened by releasing the hook and loop fasteners and pulling on the free end 380 so that an additional length of the first band portion 372 is passed through one of the plurality of slots 376. Once the desired tightening has been achieved, the hook and loop fasteners 375, 377 are re-engaged to secure the first and second band portions 372, 374 together. In a similar manner, the stabilizing strap 332 may be loosened by releasing the hook and loop fasteners and feeding a length of the free end back through slot 376. Once the desired amount of loosening has been achieved, the hook and loop fasteners are re-engaged to secure the first and second band portions 372, 374 together. Additionally, tightening or loosening the stabilizing strap 332 my be accomplished by inserting the first band portion 372 through a different slot of the plurality of slots 376. Selecting a slot 376 nearer to the hook 256 will provide a tightening affect whereas selecting a slot 376 away from the hook 256 will provide a loosening affect.
As shown in
While the present invention has been illustrated by the description of the embodiments thereof, and while the embodiments have been described in considerable detail, it is not the intention of the applicant to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details of representative apparatus and method, and illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departure from the spirit or scope of applicant's general inventive concept.
Claims
1. A headset adapted to be positioned on a head of a user, comprising:
- a headband assembly for spanning across the head of a user;
- an earcup assembly coupled proximate one end of the headband assembly;
- a power source assembly coupled proximate the other end of the headband assembly; and
- a flexible stabilizing strap spanning between the earcup and power source assemblies, the strap including a first band portion that couples with a second band portion, at least one band portion including a plurality of coupling positions along its length for adjustably coupling with the other band portion at different lengths to vary the overall length of the stabilizing strap;
- the stabilizing strap adapted to engage the head of a user to further stabilize the headset on the head.
2. The headset of claim 1 wherein the at least one band portion includes a plurality of openings formed along its length, the openings configured to receive an end of the other band portion to couple the first and second band portions together.
3. The headset of claim 2 wherein the other band portion end passes through an opening and then passes back along the other band portion to be secured thereto.
4. The headset of claim 1, wherein the stabilizing strap is reversible so as to be used when the headset is used on either side of a user's head.
5. The headset of claim 1, wherein the headset further comprises a central plane, the stabilizing strap spanning between the earcup and power source assemblies in the central plane.
6. The headset of claim 1, wherein the stabilizing strap is removable.
7. The headset of claim 1, wherein at least one of the band portions is coupled to a swivel joint for coupling with one of the earcup or power source assemblies.
8. An adjustable headset adapted to be positioned on a head of a user, comprising:
- a headband assembly for spanning laterally across the top of a head of a user;
- an earcup assembly coupled proximate one end of the headband assembly;
- the headband assembly including at least one transverse band and a sliding arm that is slidingly coupled with the transverse band, the earcup assembly being coupled to the sliding arm for dynamically adjusting the position of the earcup assembly with respect to the headband assembly; and
- a flexible stabilizing strap spanning between ends of the headband assembly, the strap including a first band portion that couples with a second band portion, at least one band portion including a plurality of coupling positions along its length for adjustably coupling with the other band portion at different lengths to vary the overall length of the stabilizing strap.
9. The headset of claim 8, wherein a first end of the stabilizing strap is coupled to the sliding arm.
10. The headset of claim 8, wherein a power source assembly is coupled to the other end of the headband assembly, a second end of the stabilizing strap being coupled to the power source assembly.
11. The headset of claim 8 wherein the at least one band portion includes a plurality of openings formed along its length, the openings configured to receive an end of the other band portion to couple the first and second band portions together.
12. The headset of claim 11 wherein the other band portion end passes through an opening and then passes back along the other band portion to be secured thereto.
13. The headset of claim 8, wherein the stabilizing strap is reversible so as to be used when the headset is used on either side of a user's head.
14. The headset of claim 8, wherein the headset further comprises a central plane, the stabilizing strap spanning between ends of the headband assembly in the central plane.
15. The headset of claim 8, wherein at least one of the band portions is coupled to a swivel joint for coupling with an end of the headband assembly.
16. The headset of claim 11 wherein the openings are in the form of slots.
17. An adjustable headset adapted to be positioned on a head of a user, comprising:
- a headband assembly for spanning laterally across the top of a head of a user;
- an earcup assembly coupled proximate one end of the headband assembly;
- a vertically-oriented stabilizing strap spanning across the top of the head of the user at an angle to the headband assembly;
- a flexible stabilizing strap spanning between ends of the headband assembly behind the head of the user, the strap including a first band portion that couples with a second band portion, at least one band portion including a plurality of coupling positions along its length for adjustably coupling with the other band portion at different lengths to vary the overall length of the flexible stabilizing strap.
18. The headset of claim 17 wherein the at least one band portion includes a plurality of openings formed along its length, the openings configured to receive an end of the other band portion to couple the first and second band portions together.
19. The headset of claim 18 wherein the other band portion end passes through an opening and then passes back along the other band portion to be secured thereto.
Type: Application
Filed: Apr 20, 2007
Publication Date: Sep 27, 2007
Inventors: Michael Davis (White Oak, PA), James Wahl (Export, PA)
Application Number: 11/738,092
International Classification: H04R 25/00 (20060101);