Abstract: A helmet clip captures a goggle loop and lanyard and provides a mounting mechanism for a helmet accessory. The helmet clip uses a snap mechanism to selectively capture and release the lanyard or goggle loop without removing the accessory.

Abstract: The invention enables the inclusion of voice and remaining audio information at different parts of the audio production process. In particular, the invention embodies special techniques for VRA-capable digital mastering, accommodation of PCPV/PCA and/or SCRA signals in audio CODECs, VRA-capable encoders and decoders, and VRA in DVD and other digital audio file formats. The invention facilitates an end-listener's voice-to-remaining audio (VRA) adjustment upon the playback of digital audio media formats by focusing on new configurations of multiple parts of the entire digital audio system, thereby enabling a new technique intended to benefit audio end-users (end-listeners) who wish to control the ratio of the primary vocal/dialog content of an audio program relative to the remaining portion of the audio content in that program.

Abstract: An improved active noise reduction system which has a transducer, an electro-acoustic sensing means including adjacent to the transducer, an attenuation means with electro-acoustic sensing means to attenuate selected sound frequencies, said system utilizing both feed forward control means and feedback control means comprising a heteronomous electronic controller with algorithmic transfer function and said controller being individually operable.

Abstract: An improved noise canceling microphone is provided including robust design features and advanced noise control and speech discrimination convergence characteristics. Two adaptive controllers are used to ensure robust performance in quickly changing acoustic environments ensuring an acceptable minimum performance characteristic. Additionally, a new real-time spectral estimation procedure is applied to a noise canceling communications microphone platform that permits continued and optimal adaptation of non-voice bandwidth frequencies during speech transients.

Abstract: An electronic earplug for wideband control of pressures at the tympanic membrane is presented. A unique methodology of determining effective component placement inside an earplug that provides acoustic isolation between the ambient noise and tympanic membrane is explained. Methods for providing accurate dosimetry and improved active control result from the unique earplug design process, leading to very wideband active noise reduction at the tympanic membrane.

Abstract: A tailored active noise control design method is presented that provides for improved noise attenuation performance for each individual user and improved hearing protection in a specified noise field as a function of a specified metric indicative of a noise reduction objection. Characteristics of individual users, behavior of the associated passive hearing protection, and the external noise environment are all concurrently accounted for in an automatic method for designing an active controller that limits the exposed noise level for a specific individual. The controller manufacturing process and implementation may be performed in-situ for each individual automatically. The design method may also account for actuator limitations and can be applied equally well to any passive/active noise control devices including headphones and earplugs.

Abstract: Systems provide an audio/visual output to each of a plurality of listeners in a manner that permits individualized audio adjustment, wherein audio comprises a first signal that is substantially voice and a second signal that is substantially other than voice. The systems may include a video device, a storage medium, and a transmitter that transmits the first and second signals to a plurality of personal listening devices. Each of the plurality of personal listening devices may include first and second receivers, first and second adjustment devices, an audio signal combining device, and one or more transducers, wherein the systems permit each of the plurality of listeners to adjust the first and second signals independently of other ones of the plurality of listeners in an audience.

Abstract: A shaped acoustic foam insert for use in improving the performance of circumaural hearing protectors is described. A foam block having a cross-section and shape is adapted to occupy the entire interior volume of an earcup of a circumaural hearing protector. The insert has no folds or open acoustic cavities. The surface of the insert that faces the ear of the user of the circumaural hearing protector comprises a curvilinear groove. The groove has no sharp angles and accommodates the average human pinna. A system and method of manufacturing the attenuating foam insert are provided.

Abstract: A microphone housing improves the broadband noise canceling performance of an active noise canceling microphone system while also ensuring improved speech transmission through the system. First and second microphone elements are selected each having a diameter “d” and a thickness “t”. The two microphone elements are aligned axially with the back surfaces in contact and secured in an axially aligned cylindrical cavity within a cylindrically shaped housing. The cylindrically shaped housing has an outside diameter “D,” an interior cavity of diameter of “d,” and a height “2t”. The housing is exposed to an environment comprising both speech and noise. The first microphone element is adapted to receive a signal having both voice and noise components, while the second microphone element is adapted to receive a signal that is predominantly noise. A controller processes signals from the first microphone element and the second microphone element.