Hook Over Ear Or Spectacle Patents (Class 381/381)
  • Publication number: 20110022121
    Abstract: An improved antenna device for BTE devices, such a hearing prostheses, is disclosed. Antenna elements (111, 114) are disposed in the BTE body (101) and in the earhook (102), with dielectric material (112, 113) disposed between, so as to form a capacitive coupling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2009
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventor: Werner Meskins
  • Publication number: 20110002499
    Abstract: An earhook (1), for example for a headset, to be worn around the root of the auricle (14) in the postauricular sulcus. The earhook (1) extends between a first end (5) and a second end (6) and has at least a first (2) and a second (3) curved element interconnected at the first end (5). Each curved element (2, 3) has a concave first side pointing forward towards the root of the auricle (14) and a convex second side pointing away from the root of the auricle (14) when worn. The curved elements (2, 3) are arranged with lateral distance (w) seen in a direction essentially perpendicular to the side of the head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2008
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Inventors: Marcus Hoggarth, Raun Forsyth, Stephen De Saulles
  • Patent number: 7831058
    Abstract: A microphone positioning structure is connected to an audio output device, and is composed of a sound tube, an end of which is connected with the audio output device; an earplug part which is located at a tail end of the aforementioned sound tube; an ear-hook part, an end of which is connected with the aforementioned sound tube. An end of the sound tube is plugged into the audio output device such as a trumpet or a loudspeaker, the ear-hook part is hung on a user's auricle for positioning, and the earplug part is inserted into the user's ear. In addition, while listening, the ear-hook part is hung and fixed on the user's auricle; therefore, the earplug part will not be subjected to a force, and it will not be fallen off due to a force of gravity and a shaking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: JDI Jing Deng Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kuo-Chung Chen
  • Publication number: 20100272304
    Abstract: What is provided is an eyewear retention device comprising two ends, wherein each end is adapted for removable connection to an earpiece of an eyewear device; an audio device located at or substantially near at least one of the ends, wherein the audio device is adapted to play one or more audio signals for transmission to one or more surfaces of a human auditory passage at a location proximate to and outside of the ear, if the strap is connected to the earpiece of the eyewear device and worn in combination with the eyewear device; a receiver electrically connected to the audio device, wherein the receiver is adapted to receive the one or more audio signals, wherein the receiver is further adapted to remotely communicate with a sound transmission device; and a power source electrically connected to the audio device and to the receiver that is adapted to supply power to the audio device and the receiver. In one embodiment the audio device is adapted to connect the strap to the earpiece of the eyewear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2009
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Inventors: Joseph Adam Thiel, Ryan David Wells
  • Publication number: 20100254563
    Abstract: A system for securing headphone transducers is provided. In one aspect of the present invention, the system comprises a first transducer device having a first mechanical housing, which has an outer surface and an inner surface. A first coupling device is affixed to the outer surface of the first mechanical housing of the first transducer device. A second transducer device has a second mechanical housing, which has an outer surface and an inner surface. A second coupling device is affixed to the outer surface of the second mechanical housing of the second transducer device. The first coupling device is coupled to the second coupling device when in close proximity to each other, such that the inner surfaces of the first and second mechanical devices are opposed to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Inventor: Patrick Sean Harper
  • Publication number: 20100238396
    Abstract: A detachable adjustable electronics module may be removably or permanently connected to eyewear. The module may include electronics for processing audio and/or video signals. The module may be provided with an adjustable arm, for adjustably carrying a speaker. The module and/or the speaker may be adjusted relative to the wearer in any of the anterior-posterior direction, the inferior-superior direction and laterally. Rotation adjustments may also be accomplished. Eyewear may be provided with only a single module, on a single side, or with two modules, one on each side, such as to provide stereo audio or dual mono sound.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2010
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Inventor: James H. Jannard
  • Publication number: 20100220886
    Abstract: An ear-attachment device attaches an electronic hearing-related device to an ear. The device uses concha-gripping-means to grip at least part of a concha of an ear therebetween. An electronic hearing-related device is attached to the concha-gripping-means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventor: Joseph GRUNDY
  • Patent number: 7783068
    Abstract: A hearing device has an ear fitting piece, a housing part wearable behind the ear, and an earpiece tube connecting the ear fitting piece and the housing part. The transmission of mechanical vibrations between the ear fitting piece and the housing part via the earpiece tube is prevented by damping elements located in the region of the connection points between the ear fitting piece and the earpiece tube, or between the earpiece tube and the housing part. The damping elements damp mechanical vibrations in the transition region. A damping element that prevents the transmission of mechanical vibrations can also be present on or in the earpiece tube. The feedback tendency in the appertaining hearing device is thereby reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Siemens Audiologische Technik GmbH
    Inventors: Harald Klemenz, Uwe Rass, Gerhard Röhrlein, Joseph Sauer, Markus Trautner
  • Patent number: 7778410
    Abstract: A personal audio listening device is adapted to be worn on a user's ear, and includes a housing, a pivotal knob, and an ear hook member. The housing has a surface and a hollow portion, and defines a first axis and a second axis. The pivotal knob is pivotally mounted on the surface of the housing, and includes a pair of parallel resilient walls. The ear hook member includes a hook body and an end portion. The end portion includes a pivot element in the form of a polygonal post. The hook body is configured to be wearable on the user's ear. The ear hook member is fittingly received between the resilient walls by means of the pivot element so as to be mounted on the pivotal knob. The ear hook member is pivotable about the first axis, and is rotatable about the second axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: Lite-On Technology Corp.
    Inventors: Chun-Hsin Liu, Chung-Chun Wu, Yu-Chang Hung, Liang-Yi Liu
  • Publication number: 20100202646
    Abstract: The fitting of hearing aids and other hearing devices is intended to be made more comfortable. For this, provision is made for a hearing device with a housing which contains a signal processing unit and has a sound outlet. A supporting hook for attaching the hearing device to an ear or a head can be fixed on the sound outlet of the housing such that sound emanating from the sound outlet is guided through the supporting hook. A sensor for detecting the type of supporting hook is arranged in or on the housing. The sensor controls the signal processing unit as a function of the detected type of supporting hook. Thus, the user can for example use different types of supporting hooks without having to decide on a type of supporting hook during the first fitting. Moreover, the degree of mass production of the hearing aid can be further increased by the automatic recognition of the type of supporting hook.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Applicant: SIEMENS MEDICAL INSTRUMENTS PTE. LTD.
    Inventors: Hoong Yih Chan, PhanHow Amy Cheng, Leep Foong Chew, Cheoung Hong Lee, Meng Kiang Lim
  • Publication number: 20100183184
    Abstract: There is provided an earphone having an ear hook, at one end of which is arranged a first end of a sliding shaft and at the other end of which (at the ear lobe abutment end) the cable is fixed. The housing of the electroacoustic transducer is connected to the second end of the shaft in such a way that the housing of the electroacoustic transducer can be moved in the longitudinal direction of the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2008
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Inventors: Lars Milde, Markus Kuhr
  • Patent number: 7760898
    Abstract: Novel techniques for hearing enhancement based on a pair of glasses are disclosed. In one embodiment, the glasses include a first lens holder, a second lens holder, a bridge element, a first temple, a second temple, a first speaker, a second speaker, a microphone and at least one electrical component that performs a hearing enhanced function to enhance audio signals from the microphone to be sent to the speakers for the user to hear. At least one electrical component in the glasses is for generating other audio signals by the speakers, with the other audio signals originating from signals other than audio signals captured by the microphone. In another embodiment, some of the electrical components are in a portable device, wired or wirelessly, coupled to the glasses. In yet another embodiment, the glasses function as a headset, with other electrical components in the portable device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: IP Venture, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas A. Howell, David Chao, C. Douglass Thomas, Peter P. Tong
  • Patent number: 7738671
    Abstract: The present invention aims to provide headphones having no headband in which left and right driver units are connected by a cord passed behind the neck, wherein the headphones will not slip off if hung on the shoulders when not being used and are intended to improve fashionableness; in headphones 10 having no headband in which left and right driver units 2L, 2R are connected by a cord 4 passed behind the neck, the middle part of this cord is inserted into a cylindrical belt 11a, and also end members 12, 12 which fix the cord 4 and this cylindrical belt 11a are provided at both ends of this cylindrical belt 11a to form a belt-like strap portion 11; and further this cylindrical belt 11a is provided with a print or decoration which is pliable and flexible when being bent, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Tomohiro Ito, Rumi Nakano, Tomomi Hamada
  • Patent number: 7735996
    Abstract: Connector assembly for connecting an earpiece (27) of a hearing aid to a glasses temple (13). The glasses temple (13) has hearing aid components. The connector assembly (31) has a first connector housing (34) and a second connector housing (37). The first connector housing (34) is designed to be attached to the earpiece (27) via an intermediate unit (29) whereas the second connector housing (37) is designed to be attached to the glasses temple (13). The first and second connector housings (34, 37) are designed to engage one another by way of a disconnectable connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Varibel B.V.
    Inventors: Jacob van der Zwan, Marcus Karel Sipkema
  • Patent number: 7720243
    Abstract: A device and method for tailoring the audio frequency response of a hearing instrument, such as a hearing aid, by altering the physical characteristics of the device to more accurately compensate for a user's specific hearing loss attributes. The device has a bore formed within its housing which provides a passage for the transmission of sound from the receiver of the hearing instrument toward the user's eardrum. The bore has a custom-designed geometric shape to emphasize desired sound frequencies and therefore produce a predetermined frequency response of sound in combination with any frequency response changes directed by the hearing instrument's circuitry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Synygis, LLC
    Inventors: Mark A. Brumback, Dustin L. Potter, John S. Freeman
  • Patent number: 7720244
    Abstract: An earpiece (2) for a hearing aid (12) comprises a plug (20) for contacting the meatus of the users ear canal, a contact element (13) for resting against an inside of the users tragus and or the ear canal, and a fixture for holding the plug and the contact element together, the fixture having means for adjusting the spacing between the plug and the contact element. The invention further provides a hearing aid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Widex A/S
    Inventors: Christian Bohl Espersen, Jorgen Mejner Olsen
  • Publication number: 20100119100
    Abstract: The present invention is an external ear attachable electronic ear utility device, having logic for processing input-output signals to the ear device upon user demand from mechanical switches or audio input, and logic for storing user audio input in the device memory such that the external ear device platform can be extended for alternative hands free visual free operation while making and retrieving stored verbal notes/messages. The ear device can also have functions to identify audio input for preset voice commands, logic for programming to record and playback audio signals on user selection or on audio voice command, a trip route recorder and electronic bread crumbs utility for finding ones way back to a start position using GPS stored point locations. Other utilities include an RFID signal detection and warning, as well as a purely audio interface directional compass.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Inventor: Jeffery Shane DeVine
  • Publication number: 20100104125
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a headset system comprises a headset comprising a body and an earpiece, and a docking station comprising a receiving mechanism sized to receive a portion of the body. The earpiece can be located outside of the receiving mechanism when the portion of the body is coupled to the receiving mechanism. Other examples and embodiments are described herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2009
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Applicant: BELKIN INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Thorben Neu, Vijendra Nalwad, Carlos del Toro
  • Publication number: 20100086167
    Abstract: An earphone having an under hanger reduces movement of the earphone from vibrations that occur while a user is typically in motion. The earphone preferably includes: a housing for housing a speaker therein; a protector installed in a front surface of the housing and having a mesh for delivering a sound from the speaker; and an under hanger provided at a lower part of the housing to closely contact along a lower part of the rear side of an earflap of a user. The provision of an under hanger in a lower part of the earphone prevents from being easily separated from a user's ear. Further, by providing an under hanger made of a soft material, as the earphone closely contacts with the user's ear, a sound quality is improved and a wearing feeling of the earphone is improved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Applicant: Samsung Electronics Co., LTD.
    Inventors: Hosaka AKIHIKO, Jung Hun KWAK
  • Publication number: 20100074462
    Abstract: A headset includes a main body, an earpiece formed on a side of the main body, a holder connecting part formed on another side of the main body, a coupling member that is coupled to the holder to support the holder on the holder connecting part, and an elastic member for pulling the holder toward the holder connecting part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventors: Sung Ho Lee, Se Hyun Lee
  • Patent number: 7684581
    Abstract: A micro electrical and/or electronical device, as in particular a hearing aid being worn e.g. behind the ear, is characterized by a housing shell (1), which at least partially comprises a skid-proof surface (11). This skid-proof surface can be made out of an elastomeric polymer or an elastic polymer. Preferably such part (11) of the surface of the housing or shell (1) is being made skid-proof, which is in contact with the skin, while wearing the hearing aid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: Phonak AG
    Inventors: Josef Wagner, Ora Bürkli-Halevy
  • Patent number: 7682018
    Abstract: A detachable adjustable electronics module may be removably or permanently connected to eyewear. The module may include electronics for processing audio and/or video signals. The module may be provided with an adjustable arm, for adjustably carrying a speaker. The module and/or the speaker may be adjusted relative to the wearer in any of the anterior-posterior direction, the inferior-superior direction and laterally. Rotation adjustments may also be accomplished. Eyewear may be provided with only a single module, on a single side, or with two modules, one on each side, such as to provide stereo audio or dual mono sound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: Oakley, Inc.
    Inventor: James H. Jannard
  • Patent number: 7664287
    Abstract: A headset capable of receiving signals from an electronic device includes a body (110), a neck (120) protruding from the body, a speaker (130) coupled to the neck, an ear loop (140) removably attached to the neck, and an earplug (150) removably attached to the neck. The ear loop can include an attachment portion (810) including a substantially circular arc, and an ear engagement portion (820) coupled to the headset attachment portion and including a flexible wire (821) surrounded by a coating (822). The earplug can include a neck attachment portion (1110) and an ear engaging portion (1120) adjacent to the headset engaging portion and having a protruding lip (1121).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Belkin International, Inc.
    Inventors: Thorben Neu, Vijendra Nalwad, Carlos del Toro
  • Patent number: 7648005
    Abstract: A hearing protection device for a human ear. The device has an arm that clips about the pinna. A plug member caps or enters ear canal. The device is biased to provide some force against the plug member so that is stays in position during use. An optional handle may be provided to assist with temporarily pulling the plug member away from the ear canal or providing adjustment. The device may be adapted for use as an ear phone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Waihong Leong, Scott Madison Belliveau, Sean S. Corbin, Ryan Hall, Ki Bok Song, James Wolford
  • Patent number: 7646879
    Abstract: A headset communication unit includes a housing and a microphone arm pivotally connected to the housing. The housing has a first pivotal portion that has a pivotal end and connects a supporting pillar in direction of the pivotal end. The microphone arm has a microphone and an elastic slice member received therein. In the process of the microphone arm rotating from an opening status to a closing status, the elastic slice member contacts the supporting pillar and rotates around the supporting pillar. Among this process, there is a farthest supporting position away from a geometric center of the cross-section of the supporting pillar in all supporting position of the supporting pillar. When the elastic slice member contacts the farthest supporting position, an elastic force stored in the deformed elastic slice is maximized. The elastic force is released to push the microphone arm forward to the closing status.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Cheng Uei Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wei-Hsiang Huang
  • Publication number: 20090325649
    Abstract: A wireless earphone includes an earphone, a microphone, a hanging portion and an adjusting portion fixed with the hanging portion. The answering portion is mounted on the junction area of the hanging portion and the adjusting portion. The microphone is mounted on the other end of the adjusting portion. The wireless earphone is made of flexible, elastic material. The bluetooth has at least one block protruding thereon, to make the wireless earphone be disassembly mounted on a portable electronic device. The invention also includes a portable electronic device using the wireless earphone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2009
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Applicants: SHENZHEN FUTAIHONG PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., FIH (HONG KONG) LIMITED
    Inventor: ZHENG SHI
  • Publication number: 20090318202
    Abstract: A wireless headset with an integral display is provided, the headset capable of communicating via a wireless network to a cellular telephone, cellular telephone adaptor, land-line telephone, land-line telephone adaptor, computer, personal digital assistant, or other device capable of communicating via the wireless network. The wireless headset of the invention includes an input transducer (e.g., a microphone), an output transducer (e.g., a speaker), a wireless networking subsystem and a controller/controller interface. The headset may also include means for attaching the headset to the user in order to allow hands-free operation. The integral display, fabricated using any of a variety of suitable technologies, allows headset and system information to be displayed (e.g., battery levels, signal levels, call status, caller identification, incoming call alert, current time, current date, elapsed use time, etc.). The integral display can also be used to aid headset/system configuration (e.g.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Applicant: GN Netcom A/S
    Inventor: Martin R. BODLEY
  • Publication number: 20090285433
    Abstract: A headphone includes a hanger and two speaker units respectively disposed at the two ends of the hanger. Each speaker unit includes a first shell; a second shell engaged with the first shell, a first air passage being formed between the first shell and the second shell, a second air passage being formed on the second shell, the second air passage having an opening direction different from an opening direction of the first air passage; a cover engaged with the second shell and having a plurality of holes on the cover; and a speaker disposed between the first shell and the second shell. When the speaker outputs sound, airflows generated by the speaker are exhausted through the first air passage, the second air passage and the holes so that the amount of air exhaust is stable and the output audio is of high quality.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventors: Chien-cheng Yang, Hui-yin Liang, Yu-chang Fun
  • Publication number: 20090285434
    Abstract: A headset (10) comprises an earhook (12) and an earbud (14) which are removably connected to each other so that the earbud may be removed from the earhook to enable a user to use the earbud alone. Further, the earbud (14) is connected to the earhook (12) so as to be rotatable relative to the earhook from one side thereof to the other, to thereby enable the headset (10) to be worn on either the left or right ear of the wearer, and/or to configure two such headsets (10) to be worn as a pair, one on each ear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2008
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventors: Jason Martin Williams, David Robert Gray, Marco Perry, Jordan B. Nollman, William Webb
  • Publication number: 20090279731
    Abstract: An earphone includes a housing, a reel mechanism, a speaker, and a transmission wire. The reel mechanism is pivotally disposed in the housing and has an accommodating space defined therein for accommodating the speaker. The transmission wire is wound on the reel mechanism. When the transmission wire is pulled or released and thereby drives the reel mechanism to rotate, the speaker rotates coaxially together with the reel mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2008
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Inventor: Yen-Shuh WU
  • Patent number: 7616773
    Abstract: A communication device including a casing to be worn at the ear of a user, the casing including a microphone, a signal processing device, a receiver for delivering an audio signal to the user's ear canal, and a receiver enclosure, the receiver enclosure including wall parts forming part of the casing which in cooperation with detachable wall parts form the enclosure in an air tight manner for sound isolation of the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: Oticon A/S
    Inventors: Claus Tipsmark, Jens Lundby
  • Patent number: 7613315
    Abstract: The headset according to the invention has an elongate cabinet adapted for placement behind the ear lobe, a speaker enclosure hinged to the cabinet part and extending downwards from the upper portion of the cabinet part and a microphone boom extending from the lover tip of the cabinet part. The microphone boom is fastened to the cabinet part in rotatable fashion, and the speaker enclosure has sound exit openings pointing in a direction toward the ear and away from the ear. According to the invention the speaker enclosure has a circumferentially extending band which is detachable from the speaker enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Sennheiser Communications A/S
    Inventors: Peter Vestergaard Vaerum, Sivert Wernblad, Jeppe Marckmann Ørsted
  • Patent number: 7609845
    Abstract: A hanging type earphone includes an earphone body and an ear hook. The earphone body has a speaking portion and a first connecting portion thereon. A pair of polygonal prisms is disposed at opposite ends of the first connecting portion. The ear hook is shaped to fit a shape of ears and pivotally mounted to the earphone body for hanging the earphone body on an ear. The ear hook has a second connecting portion shaped as a bridge with a pair of piers disposed there-beneath. The pair of piers each defines a polygonal hole. The second connecting portion rides on the first connecting portion with the polygonal prisms inserted into the respective polygonal holes. A wall of each polygonal hole is at least partially split so that the polygonal hole is enlargeable to enable the polygonal prism to pivot therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: Microlink Communications Inc.
    Inventor: Yu-Chao Chang
  • Publication number: 20090252367
    Abstract: An earphone system includes an audio device that is connected via an audio chord with at least one ear-bud Also, the system includes a lanyard that is attached to the chord at a distance “L” from the ear-bud In particular, the lanyard is hung on the ear of a user to position the ear-bud at a distance “d” from the point where the lanyard is connected to the chord Importantly, the distance “L” is adjustable, and the distance “d” is less than the distance “L”
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventor: John A. Benkovich, III
  • Publication number: 20090238399
    Abstract: A miniature audio earphone includes a pair of audio earphones, an electrical connector adapted for making a selectively detachable physical and electrical connection to a source of stereo audio signals, a generally Y-shaped electrical lead assembly having a bifurcated upper portion and an adjoining lower portion, whose lower end is coupled to the connector. The upper portion has a pair of branch leads each of which is coupled to a respective one of said earphones. A plurality of exteriorly disposed mechanical shielding elements at least partially surrounds an underlying portion of at least one of said branch leads to resist damage to the lead assembly due to abrasion, crushing, kinking and cutting without unduly impairing the flexibility of the assembly or causing it to have an unattractive appearance. A tensile stress-relief line is also provided for resisting damage to the upper portion of the assembly due to tension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventor: Elizabeth Miller
  • Publication number: 20090214073
    Abstract: An adjustable ear-hook earphone includes an audio earphone and a substantially auriform ear-hook connected to the earphone and configured to engage an ear of a user to hold the earphone adjacent the ear. The ear-hook has an outer portion configured to face generally away from the ear and a compressible inner portion configured to face generally toward the ear. The inner portion is compressible between a compressed position and a plurality of successive, expanded positions such that the expanded positions exert a force on the ear of the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2008
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: Karin Anna Sandberg
  • Patent number: 7580541
    Abstract: A personal audio set formed that includes an ear-clip mounting portion pivotally secured to a frame is disclosed. In one embodiment, the frame of the personal audio set includes a sliding portion to define a first axis of rotation, and the ear hook is pivotally secured to the sliding portion to define a second axis of rotation so that the headset may be properly worn on either the wearer's left or right ear by moving the sliding portion and ear hook about their respective axes. The ear hook is preferably substantially c-shaped and dual molded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Assignee: Logitech Europe S.A.
    Inventors: Kevin Hlas, Alex Danielson, Bernhard Wildner, Omer Kotzer, Jamian Cobbett
  • Publication number: 20090203318
    Abstract: The invention relates to a headset comprising a housing with an earphone and at least one user interface input or output function, said headset also comprising a fastening element arranged for positioning the headset close to a person's ear during use. According to the invention, said headset furthermore comprises an accelerometer arranged for detecting the orientation in at least one dimension of said housing, said accelerometer being associated with a headset control unit which is arranged for configuring a function of said user interface input or output function depending on said orientation of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2008
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventor: Ido de Haan
  • Patent number: 7570777
    Abstract: A wired or wireless earset assembly includes an earset housing having a curved portion configured to fit to the top of an ear, a speaker driver contained in a speaker housing, a flexible tube having a first extension so as to be coupled with at least a part of the curved portion of the earset housing and a second extension coupled with the speaker housing, a rotatable cap containing a bud coupled with the speaker driver, a sound delivery port in the bud, a circuitry for processing an input signal in the case, and a wire in the flexible tube connecting the circuitry and the speaker driver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Step Labs, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon C. Taenzer, Thanh Q. Nguyen, Donald R. Saleh
  • Patent number: 7555136
    Abstract: The nasal bone conduction wireless communication transmitting device of the present invention comprises a bone conduction inputting device; a wireless communication transmitting device electrically connected to the bone conduction inputting device; a bone conduction outputting device having a second oscillator; and a carrier device for supporting those abovementioned devices. The invention is characterized by that the carrier device is a carrier provided on the nose for making the bone conduction outputting device and the bone conduction inputting device supported by it closely touching the skin of the nasal bone, and making the oscillating wave of the bone conduction outputting device being sent to the ear via the nasal bone conduction after the resonance in the nasal cavity; and converting the sound provided through the nasal conduction resonance by the bone conduction inputting device into an electrical wave, and then transmitting it to the wireless communication transmitting device for signaling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Assignee: Victorion Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Dave Wang
  • Patent number: 7542564
    Abstract: A monaural headset (one speaker) having a hook structure for holding the headset on the ear of a wearer, with the hook structure able to be stored on the headset housing or in a channel feature of the headset housing, when the headset is not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: Nokia Corporation
    Inventor: Mikael Jaakkola
  • Patent number: 7542582
    Abstract: A personal communications earpiece (10, 10a, 10b) for use with a personal communications device such as a telephone (50). The personal communications earpiece (10, 10a, 10b) has an ear hook (12) for placing over an ear (60) of the user. An ear bud (14, 14a) containing a speaker (27) is both physically and electrically connected to the ear hook (12) by a flexible connector (16). A front portion (22) of the ear hook (12) extends generally downward in front of the ear (60). In one embodiment, the ear bud (14) has an in ear portion (28) with a plurality of grooves (30) therein for assisting in preventing the ear bud (14) from completely blocking or occluding the ear canal of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: Step Communications
    Inventors: Michael Patrick Connors, Thanh Quoc Nguyen
  • Publication number: 20090123000
    Abstract: A personal sound delivery apparatus which can be worn by a person has speakers held close to the ears and does not include any insert into the auditory canal or any ear muff that could muffle or suppress other ambient sounds. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a wireless speaker is anchored by an arcuate hanger shaped and dimensioned to rest behind the ear. The speaker is positioned within a range from 0 to 20 centimeters (0 to 8 inches) from the auditory canal and may be surrounded by baffles that focus the incoming sound toward the entrance of the auditory canal. In other embodiments, a pair of speakers are embedded into the collar of a garment, a scapulary that rests upon the shoulders, a clamp that is bridging the nape of the neck, in pendants suspended from the neck, or hidden in a pair of earrings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2007
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Inventor: Kenneth A. Wright
  • Publication number: 20090116678
    Abstract: A headset which includes a metal or metallic housing to which various accessory components can be attached. These components can include an ear loop, a necklace for the holding of the headset while not being worn on the ear, an external mount, and other components. The components include a magnet which facilitates mounting to the headset. The components are not restricted to a particular attach point, which enhances the ability of the user to adjust the geometry for better fit. An earloop with an inelastic central range allowing for better fit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Inventors: JoeBen Bevirt, David Eliot Scheinman, Fred Italo Polito
  • Publication number: 20090103765
    Abstract: Headset for fitting an earpiece that has a lock housing in or on which a fixing device is provided. A flexurally rigid and elastic ear loop which forms a loop for accommodating the outer ear of a user, and one end of the ear loop is received longitudinally displaceable in the fixing device of the lock housing, and for adjusting the size of the loop is adjustably received in various length positions, creating a fixing effect. There is a control device for receiving and outputting electrical signals and a signal interface for receiving and/or outputting electrical signals to and/or from the control device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2008
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventors: Henning Bruckhoff, Evert Dijkstra
  • Patent number: 7522743
    Abstract: A high comfort sound delivery system (10) for use with a personal communications device such as a telephone. The high comfort sound delivery system (10) has a behind-the-ear member (12) for holding the device on or near an ear of the user, and a sound horn (14) to be positioned at or near the ear canal of the user. Sound is produced by a speaker (26) in a speaker enclosure portion (15) of the behind-the-ear piece (12) and is delivered to the sound horn (14) through a generally flexible connecting member (16). Rotational adjustment is provide to rotating the connecting member (16) in relation to a speaker tube connection projection (20) and/or a sound horn tube connection projection (46). A length adjustment is provided by moving an elongated portion (66) of the connecting member (16) of the sound horn tube connection projection (46). Alternate sound horn bodies (42a, 42b, 42c, 42d, 42e, 42f) provide addition rotational adjustment points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: Step Communications
    Inventors: David Q. Dobras, Jon C. Taenzer
  • Publication number: 20090097690
    Abstract: An earphone includes a body with a surrounding side, a rotatable loop and an ear hook. The rotatable loop is pivotally connected with the body on two opposite ends of the surrounding side. The body and the rotatable loop can rotate around a first axis and with respect to each other. The ear hook is pivotally mounted on one side of the rotatable loop near where the rotatable loop is connected with the body, and the ear hook can rotate around a second axis, which is different from the first axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2008
    Publication date: April 16, 2009
    Inventors: Chun-Hsin Liu, Shu-Yuan Cheng, Liang-Yi Liu
  • Patent number: 7512414
    Abstract: A wearable audio interface includes a support for positioning the plurality of speakers juxtaposed to and spaced from the ears of a wearer. The audio device can include wireless networking electronics so as to allow the device to interact with other wireless network devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Oakley, Inc.
    Inventors: James Jannard, Davin Saderholm, Carlos Reyes, Colin Baden, Sumner Lane Bruns
  • Publication number: 20090067658
    Abstract: A portable over-the-ear miniature sound box device comprises a loudspeaker, a first chamber and a second chamber. The loudspeaker is located in the first chamber. A first sound output hole of the first chamber is connected with a sound-receiving hole of the second chamber. A second sound output hole is disposed at the opposite side of the sound-receiving hole of the second chamber. A sound signal first resonates in the loudspeaker and is then sent through the first chamber to second chamber. Sound resonates again in the second chamber and is finally sent out via the second sound output hole. Because the sound signal resonates twice and is more convergent and the first resonance occurs in the loudspeaker, the bass will be thicker and more easily heard by human ears, hence solving the problem of easy divergence of the bass.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2007
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventor: Hsien Cheng Lin
  • Publication number: 20090060231
    Abstract: A stereo headphone includes a first audio element and a second audio element to be positioned against sides of a user's head in which each of the first and second audio elements is configured to transmit audio signals through bone to the auditory system of the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas William Buroojy