Abstract: A mechanism for switching a wireless device between normal operation and a lower-power mode is provided. A wireless device has a selection mechanism for reducing the power output of the wireless device. The wireless device then returns to a normal operation mode upon user release of the selection mechanism.

Abstract: Methods and corresponding systems are provided for limiting mobile station operation when multiple mobile stations are moving together in a group. Such group movement includes but is not limited to movement in a vehicle. According to disclosed methods, a determination is made that multiple mobile stations are moving substantially together, and in response to the determination, operation of one or more of the mobile stations is limited.

Abstract: An in-vehicle navigation apparatus with a handsfree function establishes a Bluetooth communication link with a cellular phone. When receiving from the cellular phone outgoing call history data and incoming call history data, which were stored in the cellular phone before establishing the Bluetooth communication link, the in-vehicle navigation apparatus stores, in a work memory, the received outgoing call history data and the received incoming call history data, equally to, of the navigation apparatus itself, outgoing call history data and incoming call history data. An outgoing call operation then becomes possible using outgoing call history data and incoming call history data, which are stored in the work memory.

Abstract: A headset is disclosed having a transmitting unit for each ear. Each unit (2) mounts a first bone vibration sensor (3) in the external auditory canal and a second bone vibration sensor (7) next to the jawbone/skull. Controls on a housing module (4) activate either sensor. The first sensor is moveable outside the auditory canal by a flexible support attached to the module. A digital speech processor shared by both sensors is mounted within the module. Two-way communication is maintained between the user and an external source (40), such as a cellular telephone which has a multi-task processor with memory and applications stored therein for receiving and transmitting user voice commands and text messages. A recently developed Bluetooth® protocol transmitter (50) and antenna used with the external source permits digital wireless simultaneous synchronization signals to be sent to both units for true stereo sound.

Abstract: A connected-device-information managing unit that obtains connection information that is predetermined information for connection from a connected device as a communication counterpart, holds it, and, when a communication process is completed normally, holds a parameter value used in the communication process as normal connection information which is a part of the connection information for each connected device, and a hands-free controller that performs a communication process based on the connection information. When a communication process is started with a device that normal connection information has been already stored in the connected-device-information managing unit, the hands-free controller sets a parameter based on the normal connection information to perform the communication process.

Abstract: A portable terminal having a Bluetooth module and a Bluetooth communication method between the portable terminal and a device having a Bluetooth module are provided. The method includes determining whether the portable terminal receives a signal from the device in a call history viewing mode, during Bluetooth communication between the portable terminal and the device, wherein the signal is generated as a volume control key of the device is operated. The method also includes scrolling and displaying the call history, in the portable terminal, according to the received signal. The call history can be searched for in the portable terminal by using a volume control key of a headset or a hands-free accessory, which is linked to the portable terminal via Bluetooth communication, thereby providing users with a convenient mode of operation.

Abstract: A system for receiving multiple conversations or messages and for playing the multiple conversations or messages with a mobile device and wireless earpieces. The system may determine various presentation parameters based on various characteristics of the received messages and may play the messages such that audio appears at distinguishing locations around the user. The system may change how messages and/or conversations are played in response to recognize a change in the focus of the user based on detected user inputs, such as body movement gestures.

Abstract: A system and methods are provided whereby a user of a mobile device can adaptively switch the mobile device from speakerphone mode to handset mode without needing to look at the mobile device or without the need to activate a button or key sequence. In a preferred embodiment, modules are provided in the mobile device which allow for the detection of a voice conversation, the sampling of the user's voice and the switching between the two modes of operation. If the user's voice volume is above a certain threshold the mobile device operates in handset mode. If the user's voice volume is below a certain threshold the mobile device operates in handset mode. Through the inclusion of the embodiments described herein, a mobile device can allow a user to safely and quickly switch from one mode of operation to the other without a requirement for additional hardware in the mobile device.

Abstract: A system for using at least one mobile terminal in a motor vehicle, such as a passenger automobile or a two-wheeled vehicle in particular, having at least one mobile terminal, a display device situated in the vehicle, an operating device provided in the vehicle, and a communication interface between the vehicle and the mobile terminal are provided. The mobile terminal and/or a terminal integration device provided in the vehicle be provided with a terminal sequence controller, which calls up an operating and/or display interface on the vehicle display device for operating functions and/or software applications of the mobile terminal and is operated via the vehicle operating device.

Abstract: A portable terminal includes an audio output unit configured to output audio signals to a plurality of external headphones; an event occurrence detection unit configured to detect occurrence of a predetermined event; and a control unit configured to, when the event occurrence detection unit detects the occurrence of the predetermined event while the audio output unit is outputting the audio signals to the plurality of external headphones, control the audio output unit to at least reduce the volume of an audio signal output to a particular external headphone specified in advance from among the plurality of external headphones to which the audio signals are output.

Abstract: In general, this disclosure describes techniques for alerting a user of a mobile communications device of an event using a radio frequency transmitter. The techniques may include determining that an event has occurred. The event may relate to an incoming communication received by the mobile communications device. The techniques also may include determining that an approximate speed of the mobile communications device exceeds a defined threshold speed. The techniques further may include transmitting, using a radio frequency transmitter, an audible alert that provides notification of the event in response to the mobile communications device determining that the approximate speed exceeds the predefined threshold speed.

Abstract: Described is a system and method for monitoring a mobile device. The device comprises a plurality of sensors and a processor. The sensors detect first data including spatial orientation data and motion data of the device, and the processor compares the first data to second data to determine an occurrence of an event related to at least one of a communications functionality and a power setting of the device. The second data includes predetermined threshold ranges of changes in the spatial orientation data and the motion data. If the event is detected, the processor selects a predetermined procedure for execution as a function of the first data and executes the predetermined procedure.

Abstract: Cheek stabilizers for audio headsets are disclosed. The audio headset generally include a headset body having first and second regions for positioning near a user's ear and toward the user's mouth, respectively, and a stabilizer extending from the second region of the headset body, the stabilizer being configured to position the second region at a distance away from the user's cheek. The stabilizer may facilitate positioning any metal contacts on the headset body away from the user. The stabilizer may be inverted U-shaped to form a channel over the metal contact or may be configured as one or more ribs disposed adjacent to the metal contact. The stabilizer may also facilitate in positioning a microphone port away from the user's cheek. Where the headset is used with an earpiece worn in the ear, the stabilizer may facilitate maintaining the earpiece within the user's ear.

Abstract: A computer-implemented technique includes receiving, at a mobile computing device including one or more processors, an input from a user, the input indicating a weather severity threshold for providing a notification at the mobile computing device. The technique includes determining one or more locations where the mobile computing device is likely to be, indicative of a likely location of a user, during a future period of time based on user-related data. The technique includes receiving a weather prediction for the future period of time for each of the one or more locations. The technique also includes automatically outputting the notification when the weather prediction for at least one of the one or more locations exceeds the weather severity threshold and at a time depending on distances between the one of more locations and a home location of the user.

Abstract: A frame assembly worn to maintain at least one transparent eye panel in front of a wearer's eyes. A processor receives an incoming audio signal and wirelessly transmits it to an earpiece which audibly communicates the incoming signal to the wearer. An outbound microphone assembly picks up an outbound audio signal from the wearer and transmits it to the processor which transmits it to a remote recipient. An ambient microphone assembly picks up an ambient audio signal and transmits it to the processor. The processor is structured to enhance the incoming and/or the outbound audio signal based on the ambient audio signal. The processor transmits a voice component of the ambient audio signal to the earpiece. A camera assembly picks up an outbound visual signal and transmits it to the processor which further transmits it to a remote recipient. A display assembly displays an incoming visual signal.

Abstract: An electronic device as provided here includes a primary housing, an acoustic transducer, a lower layer of acoustic mesh material, and an upper layer of acoustic mesh material. An interior volume is defined within the primary housing. The primary housing includes an interior mounting surface, an exterior mounting surface, and an acoustic port. The transducer is located within the interior volume, and the lower layer of mesh material is coupled between the interior mounting surface and the transducer to cover a lower opening of the acoustic port. The upper layer of mesh material covers an upper opening of the acoustic port. Each layer of mesh material provides an amount of acoustic transparency and an amount of visual obscurity such that the transducer is effectively hidden from view without adversely impacting the audio performance characteristics of the transducer.

Abstract: A system and method of resuming media playback on a mobile device can include playing media on a mobile device and outputting audio associated with the playing media to an audio output device. The media can be paused in response to receiving an interrupt request. A play request can be received to resume playing of the media on the mobile device. A determination can be made as to whether the audio output device is communicatively coupled to the mobile device. The media can resume play in response to the audio output device being communicatively coupled to the mobile device. In another implementation, media can resume play if a determination is made that the audio output device outputting the audio associated with the media before the interrupt request is the same audio output device that will output audio associated with the media after the interrupt request.

Abstract: A quantity that falls within a defined continuum defined by first and second end points of a gauge is communicated. Non-visual notifications indicate where on the continuum a current gauge value associated with a function of an electronic device resides relative to at least one end point of the first and second end points of the continuum. The non-visual notifications include a non-visual notification of the at least one end point of the continuum and a non-visual notification of the current gauge value.

Abstract: A mobile communication device that may include a vibration sensor that is arranged to detect vibrations; an instruction generator that is coupled to the vibration sensor and is arranged to: detect a pattern in said vibrations caused by a user contact with either the mobile communication device or a head of the user, and translate said pattern into a set of instructions that is associated with the pattern and is to be executed by the mobile communication device.

Abstract: An earbud headset, a handset including the same, and methods of operating the headset and handset are provided. In one embodiment, an earbud headset includes a speaker portion that is retractable into and extendable from a base portion, thereby allowing for a thin profile form factor. Advantageously, the earbud headset allows for more convenient storage and/or integration with a handset such that a user may carry the handset and headset much like a single item.

Abstract: A hearing enhancement system that enhances a user's hearing is disclosed. For example, the system can include an interface unit that has a directional speaker and a microphone. The microphone captures input audio signals that are transformed into ultrasonic signals. The speaker transmits the ultrasonic signals, which are transformed into output audio signals by interaction with air. At least a portion of the output audio signals are modified to enhance the hearing of the user. Based on the system, the user's ear remains free from any inserted objects and thus is free from annoying occlusion effects. Compared to existing hearing aids, the system is relatively inexpensive. In another embodiment, the system can also be used as a phone. In yet another embodiment, the system can also access audio signals from other portable or non-portable instruments, wired or wirelessly, such as from home entertainment units, phones, microphones at a conference or speakers at a movie theater.

Abstract: A mobile communication device with various operation modes and a method of toggling the operation modes thereof is disclosed. The operational mode of the mobile communication device can be automatically changed as the result of a docking or undocking event of the mobile communication device with a docking station. During the docking or undocking of the mobile communication device with the docking station, the mobile communication device is conditionally toggled between a speakerphone operation mode and a non-speakerphone operation mode such as a handset operation mode, a headset operation mode and the like.

Abstract: A hands-free accessory for a mobile device may include a microphone element, and a telecoil coupled with the microphone element in parallel. The microphone element and the telecoil are coupled with an output terminal of the hands-free device. The hands-free accessory may further include a capacitor coupled with the telecoil in series. The hands-free accessory may further include an ear speaker. The hands-free accessory may further include a first switch between the microphone element and the telecoil. Alternatively, the mobile device may include a second switch configured to control operation of the microphone element. When the first switch or the second switch is turned off/closed, the microphone element is not operated, and a signal corresponding to an electric current induced in the telecoil is input/transmitted to the mobile device.

Abstract: An electronic device as provided here includes a primary housing, an acoustic transducer, a lower layer of acoustic mesh material, and an upper layer of acoustic mesh material. An interior volume is defined within the primary housing. The primary housing includes an interior mounting surface, an exterior mounting surface, and an acoustic port. The transducer is located within the interior volume, and the lower layer of mesh material is coupled between the interior mounting surface and the transducer to cover a lower opening of the acoustic port. The upper layer of mesh material covers an upper opening of the acoustic port. Each layer of mesh material provides an amount of acoustic transparency and an amount of visual obscurity such that the transducer is effectively hidden from view without adversely impacting the audio performance characteristics of the transducer.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method and an apparatus for electronic communication between at least two communication devices. To allow reliable connection setup between the devices which are to be provided for communication at the same time as simple handling, a method according to the invention has the following steps: two communication devices intended for communication are associated with one another by means of a first coupling mechanism, and the communication between the mutually associated communication devices is performed by means of a second coupling mechanism, wherein the first coupling mechanism has a shorter range than the second coupling mechanism or is effected by means of physical contact between the communication devices.

Abstract: A microphone, transmitter, speaker, receiver, and power source, all mounted to an eyeglasses frame, for sending and receiving signals wirelessly to and from a remote cell phone or other electronic device. The microphone and the transmitter can be mounted to extension arms that can be extended, pivoted, or otherwise moved to a position for use, and then moved to a stored position when not in use. Alternatively, the microphone, transmitter, speaker, receiver, and power source, can be mounted onto a clip-on or other attachment member that mounts onto a conventional eyeglasses frame, or to a hat or other article worn on the head.

Abstract: A wireless communication device (200) is disclosed. It can include: an electronic device (210) including a display (240); a wearable device (242) including a first orientation detector (244) configured to detect a suitable display viewing orientation; and a controller (220) including a power saving module (290) coupled to the electronic device (210), the controller (220) configured to control the operations of at least the display (240) in response to a suitable orientation detection. Advantageously, the wireless communication device (200) can provides a simple, portable, compact and robust power savings feature that can actuate a display when properly orientated for viewing by a user and not actuate the display when not suitably oriented.

Abstract: A system for enabling the hands-free use of a mobile telephone in a vehicle includes a processing circuit, a short-range communication unit and a microcontroller unit. The processing circuit calculates positional coordinates of the system. The short-range communication unit connects with the mobile telephones and receives positional coordinates of all nearby mobile telephones. The microcontroller unit receives the positional coordinates of the system and the mobile telephones, determines which mobile telephone is located in a defined position of the vehicle, and creates a wireless connection with the mobile telephone.

Abstract: The described invention provides a method and system for allowing subscribers of a telematics service provider (TSP) to make hands-free phone calls within their vehicles through a telematics unit over a network or hardware-based pre-pay system, wherein the telematics unit or a wireless network provider associated with the TSP controls the ingoing and outgoing hands-free calling (HFC) processes. The wireless network provider, through its system at a remote call center or through the telematics unit, may determine whether the subscriber has subscribed to the TSP's HFC service, whether the subscriber has a sufficient remaining balance to initiate, receive or continue a call, and whether a user of the telematics unit is “roaming.” When a user attempts to make or receive a call through the telematics unit, the wireless network provider or the telematics unit may handle the incoming or outgoing call processing, and may further provide subscriber account balance notifications to the user.

Abstract: If a cellular phone with which a communication link is established is compliant with PBAP (Phone Book Access Profile), an in-vehicle navigation apparatus with a handsfree function stores and arranges, in a work memory device, phone book data transmitted automatically from the cellular phone. Thus, the newest phone book data can be made available. On the other hand, if the cellular phone is not compliant with PBAP, the in-vehicle navigation apparatus stores and arranges, in the work memory device, phone book data, which are presently stored in a storage memory device. Thus, if the presently stored phone book data, which are not newest, are desirable, they can be made available.

Abstract: Telecommunications Policy Program Systems, Processes and Devices for the reduction of radiation hazard and/or other risks involved in the use of wireless telecommunication devices, are disclosed in the present application. According to the invention an Authorized User, using a Policy Program, can enable and/or disable at least one of the sound input and/or output channels of a telecommunication device in order to force a Subordinate User to use radiation-safer, and/or otherwise safer, sound input and/or output channels of said telecommunication device. According to two of the several preferred embodiments described in the application, the Policy program can be transferred to the telecommunication device from an external source or be built-in into said device.

Abstract: A communications system may include at least one mobile wireless communications device, and a wireless communications network for sending text messages thereto. More particularly, the at least one mobile wireless communications device may include a wireless transceiver and a controller for cooperating therewith for receiving text messages from the wireless communications network. It may further include a headset output connected to the controller. The controller may be for switching between a normal message mode and an audio message mode based upon a connection between the headset output and a headset. Moreover, when in the audio message mode, the controller may output at least one audio message including speech generated from at least one of the received text messages via the headset output.

Abstract: An automobile with a communication interface configured to help communicatively couple a sound system with a wireless telephone such that the wireless telephone can stream selected media content like music or video to the communication module using an asynchronous channel of a localized wireless network. The communication interface may also allow operation of the wireless telephone in a hands free mode to facilitate use of the wireless telephone in the automobile in a way that does not require a user to hold the wireless telephone.

Abstract: A proximity sensor system for use with mobile communication devices that reduces the incidence of false positives. The proximity sensor system includes a first sensor and a second sensor, each of which are configured to separately generate outputs indicative if the mobile communication device should operate in a handset mode or a speakerphone mode. The system further includes a processor configured to switch the operation of the mobile communication device between the handset mode and the speakerphone mode when both outputs indicate that the mobile communication device should be in one mode or the other. By relying on both first and second sensors, the incidence of false positives is reduced. In various alternative embodiments, multiple first sensors and/or second sensors may be used.

Abstract: An apparatus, and an associated method, provides for operation of a handset receiver at a volumetric output level of either a hands free mode of operation or a handset mode of operation. A noncontact proximity sensor detects proximity of the handset to a user. If the sensed proximity indicates that the handset is positioned proximate to the user, the maximum volumetric output level is constrained to be no greater than a maximum handset mode of operation level. If the sensed proximity is greater than a minimum distance, high volumetric output levels are permitted of the handset receiver.

Abstract: A headset system for use with a telephone system, especially in a call center environment, and a method of operating a wireless headset system in a call center environment, in which method a wireless connection is established between headset and base unit, and the wireless connection is maintained while indicating from a headset user interface to the base unit that the headset is available for receiving an incoming call. The headset system is connected to a telephone system and has a processor configured to receive mode information and to operate according to the received mode information. The headset has a headset user interface and controls the headset signal processor to operate in accordance with user input. The received mode information comprises a call center mode information in which mode the base unit transceiver is controlled to maintain a wireless connection with the headset transceiver, and wherein the user input includes end-of-call information.

Abstract: A wireless headset has improved immunity to RF electromagnetic interference produced from wireless communications devices. A headset body is adapted to be worn by a user and includes a microphone and earpiece. An antenna receives wireless communication signals and passes them to RF and audio circuitry mounted within the headset body. The RF and audio circuitry include a Bluetooth module operatively connected to the antenna for transmitting and receiving wireless communication signals, an audio CODEC connected to the Bluetooth module, and audio connection lines connected between the CODEC and the earpiece and between the CODEC and the microphone. A filter is connected into each of the audio connection lines at the earpiece and microphone and operative for reducing the RF coupling from a mobile wireless communications device.

Abstract: A method of communicatively coupling a handheld mobile device and a head unit comprising monitoring, by the handheld mobile device, a port of the handheld mobile device; sending, by the handheld mobile device, an application to the head unit when the head unit device contacts the handheld mobile device via the port of the handheld mobile device; and conducting, by the handheld mobile device, an operation of the handheld mobile device, using the head unit device as the user interface for the handheld mobile device.

Abstract: The described systems and methods allow for safer operation of a wireless communication device (WCD). The methods may be carried out at the WCD or at a wireless-communications network that interfaces to the WCD. A hands-free-audio (HFA) profile associated with the WCD may be set to enabled or disabled. A speed-condition of the WCD is determined and compared to a speed-threshold. If the speed-condition is greater than the speed-threshold and the HFA profile is enabled, then the WCD is operable to engage in wireless communications (e.g., voice calls or text messaging) via an HFA device associated with the WCD. If the speed-condition is greater than the speed-threshold and the HFA profile is set to disabled, then the WCD may prevent and/or postpone wireless communications from occurring. After the speed-condition is determined to be less than the speed-threshold, previously received communications (e.g., text messages) may be presented via the WCD.

Abstract: Apparatus and a method for configuring an on-screen image in a mobile telecommunications handset making it possible for a multimedia menu to be displayed when a connected earphone is recognized, thereby allowing a user to conveniently select a multimedia application without having to use a keypad for initiating an instruction to perform the multimedia application.

Abstract: A wireless headset system including a switching unit having a detection circuit coupled to a wireless adapter. The detection circuit provides a first output signal to the wireless adapter upon detection of a triggering event, such as activation of a manual switch or detection of voltage of an audio output signal from a mobile communications device. The first output signal causes the wireless adapter to enter into an active audio channel mode. The detection circuit also provides a second output signal to the wireless adapter when no triggering event is detected, and the second output signal causes the wireless adapter to enter into a standby mode. Placing at least the wireless adapter in a standby mode saves battery life of the system.

Abstract: The invention is directed at a headset for a mobile communication device having a multi-button control and is implemented with a standard headset jack. The multi-button control is decoded by a microprocessor after which an encoded signal is then transmitted from the processor to the handset. In this manner, by using the standard jack, no additional hardware is required on the handset.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of operating a telematics device within a mobile vehicle communication system. The method includes receiving a request to initiate communication and identifying a request type based on the received request. The method further includes associating the identified request type with at least one service type within a service type table, wherein the service type table maps one or more request types to a corresponding service type within the service type table. The method additionally includes determining a service type number based on the corresponding service type. The method may further include providing the determined service type number and out-pulsing the provided service type number. The method may additionally include determining the identified request type does not map to the corresponding service type and out-pulsing the received request to initiate communication.

Abstract: A data transmission circuit transmitting an activation signal prior to a data signal through a signal transmission line, including: an activation detection signal generation unit for generating an activation detection signal by detecting the activation signal; and a wakeup signal generation unit for being activated by the activation detection signal, and generating a wakeup signal by detecting that the activation signal is transmitted for a predetermined time.

Abstract: An integrated, detachable ear bud system that is attached to an associated wireless phone. The integrated, detachable ear bud system may be one ear bud, or pair of ear buds, or ear bud or ear buds including a microphone. In certain embodiments an integrated, detachable, attached auditory device is physically connected to its associated wireless phone via an extendable and retractable electrical cord, and integrated into the case of the associated wireless phone, to forcibly keep with the wireless phone even when not in use, preventing misplacement, loss, or even inadvertent separation from the wireless device. The ear buds may connect to a recharge port on the wireless phone, and be charged when the wireless phone is charging. When in its attached home position, the ear-mountable speaker may tuck into a mating cavity. A latch or magnet may assist in attaching the integrated, detachable ear bud to the wireless phone.

Abstract: The subject disclosure describes monitoring when a headset is in communication with a mobile communication device, detecting the headset, comparing a name of a caller and a telephone number of the caller against a list of names and telephone numbers previously stored in a memory, determining that the name of the caller or the telephone number of the caller matches one of the names and telephone numbers in the list, determining that the one of the names and telephone numbers is associated with a pre-recorded message that the user previously recorded and stored in the memory, retrieving the pre-recorded message, and performing a text-to-speech conversion on the name and telephone number of the caller to generate a synthesized speech signal spoken text message and sending the synthesized speech signal and the pre-recorded message to the headset. Other embodiments are disclosed.

Abstract: A system and method for localized noise cancellation. An audio signal is received from an environment in close proximity to a primary area. The audio signal is processed to generate an inverse signal of the audio signal. The inverse signal is broadcast within the primary area to destructively interfere with the audio signal. The inverse signal is configured to prevent the audio signal from being broadcast through a telephone conversation ongoing in the primary area.

Abstract: A retractable audio device housing system includes a housing having internal dimensions substantially the same as external dimensions of a mobile communications device that includes an internal cavity for mounting a retracting cord mechanism. The internal cavity has at least one wall that separates a first end of a cord capable of transmitting an electrical signal from a second end of the cord, the first end of the cord has a connector plug adapted to be connected to an output port of the mobile communications device and the second end of the cord has at least one earpiece, wherein when the second end of cord is extracted, the retracting mechanism becomes tensioned. The housing further includes an internal chamber for securing the retracting mechanism and for positioning the first end of the cord and the second end of the cord on opposite sides of the wall.

Abstract: A communications interface provides for communications between a wireless communication device and a hearing assistive device. The communications interface converts a signal, including an audio signal, received from the wireless communication device into a format recognizable by a hearing assistive device. The communications interface generates a communication signal including the audio signal based on the converted signal and transmits the communication signal to the hearing assistive device using a low power radio frequency transmission protocol. The hearing assistive device converts the communication signal received from the communications interface into a usable format, extracts an audible signal from the communication signal, and manipulates the extracted audible signal according to a criterion associated with a user of the hearing assistive device.

Abstract: A loudspeaker comprises a voice coil and a diaphragm attached to the voice coil. The diaphragm has a generally rectangular outer shape, and comprises an outer rim (A1) having an outer edge at which the diaphragm is fixed in position and an inner section (A0) within the outer rim. The inner section (A0) comprises: an outermost area (A00) which is coupled to the voice coil and having the same generally rectangular outer shape; and an inner area (A01) comprising a periodic rib structure (A01p), with the ribs running parallel to the shorter side of the rectangular outer shape, and two lateral transition areas (A01c) between the edges of the periodic rib structure (A01p) and the shorter side edges of outermost area (A00).