U.S. patent application number 16/449053 was filed with the patent office on 2020-05-14 for headset system.
The applicant listed for this patent is Team IP Holdings, LLC. Invention is credited to Gary Boyer, Timothy D. Schnell.
Application Number | 20200154188 16/449053 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 63445254 |
Filed Date | 2020-05-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20200154188 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Boyer; Gary ; et
al. |
May 14, 2020 |
HEADSET SYSTEM
Abstract
Apparatus and methods for headsets, such as multi-source audio
amplification and ear protection devices, are provided herein. In
certain configurations, protection headset system includes a
removable growth band that fills the gap of the user and a headband
of the device. The device may optionally have at least one
microphone that generates an ambient sound signal based on
detecting ambient sound, at least one speaker, and an electrical
system that controls sound outputted by the at least one speaker
based on amplifying the ambient sound signal and a secondary sound
source signal. The electrical system receives a user-controlled
volume signal that is operable to control an amount of
amplification provided to the ambient sound signal, and/or an
amount of amplification provided to the secondary sound source
signal.
Inventors: |
Boyer; Gary; (Bella Vista,
AR) ; Schnell; Timothy D.; (Rancho Santa Fe,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Team IP Holdings, LLC |
Grand Prairie |
TX |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
63445254 |
Appl. No.: |
16/449053 |
Filed: |
June 21, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15913743 |
Mar 6, 2018 |
10334351 |
|
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16449053 |
|
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|
62468271 |
Mar 7, 2017 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04R 1/1041 20130101;
H04R 1/1083 20130101; H04R 5/0335 20130101; H04R 2201/107 20130101;
H04R 1/105 20130101; A61F 11/14 20130101; H04R 1/1008 20130101;
H04R 2430/01 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H04R 1/10 20060101
H04R001/10; A61F 11/14 20060101 A61F011/14 |
Claims
1. (canceled)
2. A headset system, comprising: a headset comprising a left ear
speaker, a right ear speaker and a headband that interconnects the
left and right ear speakers; and a fabric band comprising a pair of
straps and a central band portion, the pair of straps attached to
opposite ends of the central band portion, each of the pair of
straps extending between a first end of the strap and a second end
of the strap and attached to the central band portion at a location
along the strap between the first and second ends, the pair of
straps configured to attach to the headband at two locations of the
headband to couple the fabric band to the headband, so that the
central band portion is disposed between the headband and a user's
head when in use.
3. The system of claim 2 wherein the band is configured to fill a
space between the headband and the user's head when in use to
facilitate the secure and stable fit of the headset over the user's
head to accommodate the user's growing head.
4. The system of claim 2, wherein the left ear speaker is supported
by a left ear cup and the right ear speaker is supported by a right
ear cup.
5. The system of claim 4, wherein the band is configured to
facilitate the fitting of the headset on the user's head so that
the left and right ear cups are positioned on the user's ears.
6. The system of claim 2, wherein the straps are removably coupled
to the headband with hoop and loop fasteners.
7. The system of claim 2, wherein the central band portion and the
pair of straps fabric band forms generally H-shape when the fabric
band is laid generally flat.
8. The system of claim 2, wherein the central band portion
comprises a resilient material that cushions the headband on the
user's head.
9. The system of claim 2, wherein the central band portion has a
width generally equal to a width of the headband.
10. The system of claim 2, wherein the headset provides passive
noise suppression.
11. The system of claim 2, wherein the headset comprises a computer
readable memory and has one or more pre-recorded sounds saved on
the memory, the headset being actuatable to play the one or more
pre-recorded sounds.
12. The system of claim 2, wherein the headset comprises
electronics configured to filter out ambient sounds above a
predetermined decibel level.
13. An infant headset kit, comprising: a headset comprising a left
ear speaker, a right ear speaker and a headband that interconnects
the left and right ear speakers; and at least one band comprising
at least one strap and a central band portion, the strap attached
to the central band portion, extending between a first end of the
strap and a second end of the strap, and attached to the central
band portion at a location along the strap between the first and
second ends, the strap configured to releasably couple the band to
the headband so that the central band portion is disposed between
the headband and an infant's head when in use.
14. The kit of claim 13, wherein the left ear speaker is supported
by a left ear cup and the right ear speaker is supported by a right
ear cup.
15. The kit of claim 13, wherein the at least one band comprises a
plurality of bands.
16. The kit of claim 13, wherein at least two of the plurality of
bands have a central band portion of different thickness.
17. The kit of claim 13, wherein the at least one band is made of
fabric.
18. The kit of claim 13, wherein the at least one band is
reversible.
19. The kit of claim 13, wherein the headset provides passive noise
suppression.
20. The kit of claim 13, wherein the headset has one or more
pre-recorded sounds saved in a memory of the headset, the headset
being actuatable to play the one or more pre-recorded sounds.
21. The kit of claim 13, wherein the headset comprises electronics
configured to filter out sounds above a predetermined decibel
level.
22. A headset system, comprising: a headset comprising a left ear
speaker, a right ear speaker and a headband that interconnects the
left and right ear speakers; and a band comprising at least one
strap and a body portion, the strap configured to removably couple
the band to the headband, so that the body portion of the band is
disposed between the headband and a user's head when in use,
wherein the body portion of the band comprises a compressible,
resilient material.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 15/913,743 filed Mar. 6, 2018, and titled
HEADSET SYSTEM, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 62/468,271, filed Mar. 7, 2017, and titled HEADSET
SYSTEM, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by
reference and should be considered a part of this specification.
This application is related to U.S. application Ser. No.
15/212,129, filed Jul. 15, 2016, the entire contents of which are
hereby incorporated by reference and should be considered a part of
this specification.
BACKGROUND
Field
[0002] The described technology generally relates to infant headset
assemblies.
Description of the Related Technology
[0003] Headset assemblies can be used for a variety of purposes.
For example, an audio headset can assist in hearing by amplifying
sound from a single audio source, thereby allowing the user to
listen to the audio source at a desired volume level. The headsets
can be also used to protect a user's ears from damage in loud
environments. Such headsets can be particularly useful for
protecting infants whose auditory bones and tissues are still
developing. To maximize the benefit of using such headsets, it
would be important to choose headsets that fit each individual
infant's head well. However, finding headsets for infants with
suitable size and fit can be both challenging and costly, partly
because of the rapid growth of an infant's head.
SUMMARY
[0004] There is a need for a headset device that can accommodate an
infant's rapidly growing head. The headset device can allow a user
to selectively hear sounds, such as an ambient sound source
captured via microphone(s) while optionally also hearing sounds
from a secondary audio source, such as audio received from a
wireless connection (for example, BLUETOOTH.RTM.), a wired
connection (for example, an audio input port), and/or a built-in
audio component (for instance, a music player). In some
embodiments, the headset device can be a multi-source audio
amplification and ear protection device. Apparatus and methods for
such multi-source audio amplification and ear protection devices
are well described in U.S. application Ser. No. 15/212,129.
[0005] The headset device can be used in a wide variety of
applications, and can be useful for infants. In one example,
infants may use the headset device as headphones for selectively
playing a prerecorded music, lullabies, or soothing white noises.
At the same time, the headset can allow the infant user to
selectively also hear ambient sounds such as a voice of a parent.
Additionally, the device can protect the infants from noises in
loud places like concerts or stadiums.
[0006] However, the use of headsets, such as a multi-source audio
amplification and ear protection device on infants may be
challenging. For the effective control of volume by the headset and
proper limitation of noise, a secure and stable fit of the headset
device on the head and ears of the infant would be required.
Further, a secure and stable fit would be desirable for the comfort
of the infant. However, due to the rapid growth of infants, it
would be difficult to find a headset that would continuously fit
well on the infant user as the user grows up. Additionally,
purchasing new headsets as the infants grow would be costly. To
resolve these issues, one aspect of the present invention provides
an audio amplification and ear protection device, in a form of
headset, which can securely and stably fit on an infant's growing
head, so that it can be used on the infant user for an extended
period of time as the infant grows.
[0007] An audio amplification and ear protection device can be
implemented in a wide variety of form factors (e.g., in-ear buds,
on-ear or over-ear cups/muffs) and can include a wide range of
features and functionality.
[0008] In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a headset
system (e.g., audio headset system) is provided that can fit wide
range of size of heads, so that the system can fit infants' heads
as they grow.
[0009] In another aspect, an audio headset system is provided that
is adjustable in size and that can be accommodate an infant's head
as his or her head continues to grow.
[0010] In accordance with another aspect, an infant headset system
is provided. The infant headset system comprises a headset
comprising a left ear speaker (e.g., as part of a left ear cup), a
right ear speaker (e.g., as part of a right ear cup) and a headband
that interconnects the left and right ear cups. The system also
comprises a fabric band comprising a pair of straps attached to
opposite ends of a central band portion. Each of the pair of straps
extends between a first end and a second end and is attached to the
central band portion at a location along the strap between the
first and second ends (e.g., forming generally H-shape when the
fabric band is laid generally flat). The pair of straps is
configured to removably wrap at least partially about the headband
at two locations of the headband (e.g. with hoop and loop
fasteners) to couple the fabric band to the headband so that the
central band portion extends below the headband so that the central
band portion is disposed between the headband and the user's head
when in use. The band may be configured to fill a space between the
headband and the user's head when in use to facilitate the secure
and stable fit of the headset over the infant's head to accommodate
the infant's growing head, so that the left and right ear cups are
positioned on the infant's ears. The central band portion of the
band may have a width generally equal to a width of the headband,
and/or comprise a resilient material that cushions the headband on
the infant's head. The headset may provide passive noise
suppression. The headset may comprise a computer readable memory
and has one or more pre-recorded sounds saved on the memory, the
headset being actuatable to play the one or more pre-recorded
sounds. The headset may comprise electronics configured to filter
out ambient sounds above a predetermined decibel level.
[0011] In accordance with another aspect, an infant headset kit is
provided. The kit comprises a headset comprising a left ear speaker
(e.g., as part of a left ear cup), a right ear speaker (e.g., as
part of a right ear cup) and a headband that interconnects the left
and right ear cups. The kit further comprises one or more bands
comprising a pair of straps attached to opposite ends of a central
band, each of the pair of straps extending between a first end and
a second end and attached to the central band at a location along
the strap between the first and second ends, the pair of straps
configured to releasably couple the fabric band to the headband so
that the central band portion extends below the headband so that
the central band portion is disposed between the headband and the
infant's head when in use. The one or more bands may be reversible.
The kit may include a plurality of bands having a central band
portion of different thickness. The headset may provide passive
noise suppression. The headset may have one or more pre-recorded
sounds saved on the memory, the headset being actuatable to play
the one or more pre-recorded sounds. The headset may comprise
electronics configured to filter out ambient sounds above a
predetermined decibel level.
[0012] In accordance with another aspect, an infant headset system
is provided. The infant headset system comprises a headset
comprising a left ear speaker, a right ear speaker, and a headband
that interconnects the left and right ear speakers. The system
further comprises a band comprising at least one strap and a body
portion, the strap configured to releasably couple the band to the
headband so that the body portion of the band is disposed between
the headband and a user's head when in use. The body portion of the
band comprises a compressible, resilient material.
[0013] In accordance with another aspect, an infant headset system
is provided. The infant headset system comprises a headset
comprising a left ear speaker, a right ear speaker and a headband
that interconnects the left and right ear speakers. The system
further comprises a growth band supported by the headband and
comprising a body portion so that the body portion is disposed
between an underside of the headband and a user's head when in use.
There may be a spacing between the headband and the body portion
when the headset is not worn by the user, and the body portion may
be movable towards the headband in response to urging from the
user's head when the headset is in use, resulting in a reduction in
the spacing between the headband and the body portion. The body
portion of the growth band may not be attached to the headband and
the growth band may be optionally attached to the headband at first
and second ends of the growth band. The growth band may be fixedly
or releasably attached to the headband. The body portion of the
growth band may comprise a compressible, resilient material.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] Example implementations disclosed herein are illustrated in
the accompanying schematic drawings, which are for illustrative
purposes only.
[0015] FIG. 1A is a front perspective view of a headset according
to one embodiment.
[0016] FIG. 1B is a rear perspective view of the headset of FIG.
1A.
[0017] FIG. 2 illustrates a growth band according to one
embodiment.
[0018] FIG. 3A is a top perspective view of another embodiment of a
headset similar to FIG. 1A with the growth band of FIG. 2.
[0019] FIG. 3B is a front view of the headset of FIG. 3A.
[0020] FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram of a multi-source audio
amplification and ear protection device according to one
embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] The following detailed description is directed to certain
implementations for the purposes of describing the innovative
aspects. However, the teachings herein can be applied in a
multitude of different ways. As will be apparent from the following
description, an audio amplification and ear protection device can
be implemented in a wide variety of form factors (e.g., in-ear
buds, on-ear or over-ear cups/muffs) and can include a wide range
of features and functionality.
Headset
[0022] FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate various views of one embodiment of an
audio amplification and ear protection device or a headset 1000.
The headset 1000 includes a first or right ear cup 1100a, a second
or left ear cup 1100b, and a headband 1200 connecting the first or
right ear cup 1100a and the second or left ear cup 1100b. In other
embodiments, the ear cups may be replaced with ear plugs or any
other suitable forms of ear pieces. The headset 1000 may be worn by
the user by putting the ear cups 1100a and 1100b on the user's
ears, while putting the headband 1200 over the head of the user so
that the headband 1200 sits on the top of the user's head. In one
embodiment, the ear cups 1100a, 1100b can sit on the ear. In
another embodiment, the ear cups 1100a, 1100b can sit over the
ear.
[0023] In some embodiments, the headband 1200 may include a smooth
foam. In some embodiments, the width of the headset 1000 can be
adjusted, for example, by retracting the ear cups 1100a, 1100b from
the ends of the headband 1200 via its junction with ear cups 1100a
and 1100b. However, the widthwise adjustability of the headband
1200 may be limited, and may not allow the headband 1200 to sit on
the infant's head while the ear cups 1100a, 1100b are over the
infant's ears, resulting in an insecure and unstable fitting that
may cause the ear cups 1100a, 1100b to slide down past the infant's
ears or may cause the headband 1200 to swing forward in front of
the infant's head.
[0024] In some embodiments, the headset 1000 may include one or
more microphones operable to capture ambient sound. For example, in
the illustrated embodiment, the left ear cup 1100b includes a
microphone 1160. In some embodiments, the right ear cup 1100a may
include one or more microphones, and in some embodiments, both or
none of the ear cups may include the microphones. In some
embodiments, the microphone may be placed at the headband 1200. In
some embodiments, the right and/or the left ear cups 1100a and
1100b may include speakers therein, such that speakers amplify
sound signals from various sources, as described in further detail
below. In some embodiments, the headset 1000 may include one or
more control interfaces. For example, in the illustrated
embodiment, the headset 1000 includes a volume control 1120 (e.g.,
volume control wheel or dial) and a button interface 1140 on the
left ear cup 1100b. In some embodiments, the control interfaces,
such as the volume control 1120 and the button interface 1140 may
be placed at the left and/or the right ear cup 1100a/1100b or at
the headband 1200.
Passive Ear Protection Device
[0025] In some embodiments, the ear protection device may include
over-ear muff-type cups similar to 1100a and 1100b of FIGS. 1A-1B
and a headband similar to 1200 of FIGS. 1A-1B. Such over-ear
muff-type cups can provide a greater amount of ear protection
and/or improved comfort for extended periods of time. For example,
the cups 1100a and 1100b can be placed over the user's ears,
thereby enclosing the user's ears and reducing the amount of
ambient sound that directly reaches the user. In some embodiments,
the cups 1100a and 1100a may include a foam material that absorbs
and reduces the amount of ambient sound that reaches the user's
ears. Thus, the headset device 1000 can be a passive device (e.g.,
exclude any electronics) suitable for a wide range of loud
environments, including, but not limited to, traffic, playgrounds,
shopping malls, theaters, etc. In one embodiment, the passive
headset device 1000 and one or more removable growth bands 2000
described in this section or elsewhere in the specification can be
provided as part of a kit, along with instructions for use.
Active Ear Protection Device
[0026] In some embodiments of the ear protection device or headset
1000, the ear protection device may compress and control ambient
sound (e.g., via the operation of electronics in the headset 1000).
When the headset device 1000 is activated, the ear protection
device may compress the ambient sound to lower than certain decibel
level, for example by filtering out sound above a certain decibel
level (e.g., sounds greater than 75 db, sounds greater than 60 db,
etc.), such that the device 1000 allows the user to hear normal
conversational level of ambient sound while compressing loud
noises. The device may optionally be selectively activated and/or
deactivated, for example, by pressing a button such as the button
interface 1140 shown in FIGS. 1A-B. In another implementation, the
device 1000 is automatically activated to compress and control
ambient sound (e.g., without requiring the user to press a button
to initiate actuation). Even when the device is not activated, the
ear protection device or headset 1000 may enclose the user's ears
and reduce the amount of ambient sound that directly reaches the
user, such as passive ear protection device described above. In
some embodiments, the device 1000 may include an indicator which
indicates the status of the device 1000. For example, in the
illustrated embodiment, the button interface 1140 may change its
color when the device 1000 is activated or deactivated (for sound
compression or filtering of sound above a predetermined decibel
level). In one embodiment, the active headset device 1000 and one
or more removable growth bands 2000 described in this section or
elsewhere in the specification can be provided as part of a kit,
along with one or more batteries and/or instructions for use.
Audio Amplification and Ear Protection Device
[0027] In some embodiments, the audio amplification and ear
protection device or headset 1000 can provide secondary or
prerecorded sounds to the user while reducing and actively
compressing the amount of ambient sound in the same manner as the
ear protection devices described above. The device can allow
control of volumes of the ambient sound and the secondary sound
being provided by the headset device 1000. In some embodiments, the
headset device 1000 may have a memory that can store one or more
pre-recorded sound files (e.g., lullabies, natural sounds, parents'
voice, white noise or the heartbeat of the mother) so that the
device 1000 can play internally stored sound files. In further
embodiments, the device may include a USB slot or connector that
can receive a connector or USB drive to load prerecorded sounds
into the headset (e.g., into the memory of the headset).
Alternatively, the USB connector can allow an external device to be
connected to the headset device 1000 to provide the sound files. In
one embodiment, the audio amplification and ear protection device
or headset 1000 and one or more removable growth bands 2000
described in this section or elsewhere in the specification can be
provided as part of a kit, along with one or more batteries and/or
instructions for use.
[0028] Although FIGS. 1A-1B show one embodiment of an audio
amplification and ear protection device that can provide a user
with control of multiple audio sources, the teachings herein are
applicable to a wide variety of configurations. For example, the
teachings herein are applicable to audio amplification and ear
protection devices implemented using a wide variety of form factors
and/or including a wide range of features or functionality.
Additionally, although shown as including ear cups, an audio
amplification and ear protection device can include a wide range of
ear piece(s), including, for example, ear plug(s), ear cup(s), ear
phone(s), or a combination thereof. Further, some embodiments of an
audio amplification and ear protection device may not include all
parts shown in FIGS. 1A-1B, or may include additional features not
shown in FIGS. 1A-1B.
[0029] The illustrated embodiment includes over-ear muff-type cups
1100a and 1100b, which can provide a greater amount of ear
protection and/or improved listening and comfort for long periods.
For example, the cups 1100a and 1100b can be placed over the user's
ears, thereby enclosing the user's ears and reducing the amount of
ambient sound that directly reaches the user. In some embodiments,
the cups 1100a and 1100b may include foam material that is
configured to absorb and reduce the amount of ambient sound to
which the user's ears are exposed. Thus, the device 1000 can be
suitable for a wide range of loud environments.
[0030] In the illustrated embodiment, the volume control (e.g.,
wheel) 1120 provides a user of the device 200 with control over the
volume of ambient sound captured by the microphone 1160 and/or the
volume of sound from a secondary sound source, which can be, for
example, audio file stored internally in the memory of the device,
received over a wireless connection (for instance, a
BLUETOOTH.RTM., Zigbee, Wi-Fi, NFMI, AirPlay, SKAA, 2.4 GHz RF,
and/or other connection), audio received over a wired connection
(for instance, via an audio input port), and/or audio received from
a built-in audio component, such as a music player, an integrated
radio (for instance, AM, FM and/or XM radio), integrated phone
and/or audio playback device.
[0031] In some embodiments, each of the left ear cup 1100b and the
right ear cup 1100a may include a volume control (e.g., wheel) and
microphone, and the left-side volume control wheel can be operated
(e.g., rotated) to control the volume of ambient sound captured by
the left-side microphone, and the right-side volume control) can be
operated (e.g., rotated) to control the volume of ambient sound
captured by the right-side microphone. Accordingly, the volume of
ambient sounds can be separately controlled to the left and right
ears, in this embodiment.
[0032] Although the illustrated embodiment uses wheel interfaces
implemented on the device 1000, the teachings herein are applicable
to devices controlled in a wide variety of ways. For example, an
ambient sound control interface and/or a secondary sound source
control interface can use a different style of interface and/or can
be located in other positions. Additionally, the teachings herein
are applicable to devices that are remotely controlled, including
but not limited, devices controlled using a dedicated remote
control (wireless and/or wired, such as pluggable) and/or by using
a tablet, phone, smart watch, laptop, computer, and/or other
control device. Moreover, the teachings herein are applicable to
devices that operate using voice-activated control. Furthermore,
the teachings herein are applicable to devices that can be
controlled in multiple ways, such by a combination of on-device
interface(s), remote control device(s), and voice-activated
control, thereby providing the user with flexibility in controlling
the device in a manner that is desirable for a particular
application.
[0033] In the illustrated embodiment, the volume control wheel 1120
is placed inside the ear cup and only partially exposed, lowering
the chance of inadvertently adjusting and/or damaging the control
wheel. Additionally, the wheel 1120 optionally includes a ribbed
edge distributed around the circumference of the wheel, thereby
facilitating gripping and turning of the wheel 1120. In some
embodiments, the volume control wheel 1120 can be pressed in
addition to being rotated to provide an additional input mode to
the user of the device 1000. For example, pressing the wheel 1120
causes the device 1000 to toggle between different sounds from a
secondary sound source (e.g., white noise, heartbeat, nature
sounds, etc.).
[0034] In some embodiments, the two ear cups 1100a and 1100b can
separately detect external, ambient noise from outside and
separately transmit (or cancel) the noise to the respective ear. In
some embodiments, each of the cups includes one or more
microphones. For example, one or more microphones can be included
and positioned to capture the user's voice, such as when the user
is providing a voice command and/or using the device 1000 to make a
call.
[0035] Including multiple microphones on the device 1000 can aid in
capturing sounds at a wide variety of angles, including, for
instance, 360 degrees around a user. Thus, while the microphones
can be used to detect the same sounds, each microphone can face a
different direction and provide a more accurate detection of the
noise. For example, the microphones closer to the front of the user
can detect noise coming from the front, and the microphones closer
to the back of the user can detect the noise coming from the back.
Similarly, the microphones closer to the right of the user can
detect noise coming from the right, and the microphones closer to
the left of the user can detect the noise coming from the left. The
sounds can be communicated or reproduced to the speaker(s) of each
ear cup 1100a and 1100b such that the user can better discriminate
which direction sounds are coming from. For instance, if a turkey
gobbles to the right of the user, the right-side speaker would
reproduce the sound at a higher volume level relative to the
left-side speaker. In some embodiments, each ear cup 1100a and
1100b includes two or more speakers. In one example, separate
speakers are provided for sound captured from each microphone of
the device. Thus, if a sound is generated behind and to the right
of the user, a corresponding speaker would play the sound at a
higher volume than the other speaker.
[0036] The audio amplification and ear protection device 1000
simultaneously processes both sounds from an ambient sound source
and sounds from a secondary sound source, and allows the user to
separately control the volume of the sounds. In one embodiment, the
secondary sound source is provided from a wireless connection, such
as a BLUETOOTH.RTM. connection. Other implementations, however, are
possible. Thus, the device 1000 can be paired to another device,
such as a smartphone, a tablet, a computer, and/or any other
suitable electronic device. The paired device (e.g., a cell phone)
can transmit audio signals such as music, dialog, or electronic
notifications, which can be played in the speakers of the ear cups.
The pairing can be activated for a device when the user presses a
pairing button. In some embodiments, the button interface 1140
operates as the pairing button. The pairing can be performed in a
variety of ways, including but not limited to, using the pairing
button and/or via automatic pairing. In the illustrated embodiment,
sounds from the secondary sound source can be played in the same
speakers as ambient sounds detected by the device's microphones.
However, other implementations are possible, such as configuration
in which separate speakers are included for outputting the audio
received from the secondary sound source.
[0037] The audio amplification and ear protection device 1000
includes an electrical system housed therein. In one
implementation, each of the ear cups 1100a and 1100b includes
electronic circuitry for processing sounds detected from the
microphones of the cup and for driving the speaker of the cup.
Electronics used for processing sounds from a secondary sound
source can be implemented in a wide variety of ways, including, for
example, in one or both of the cups. In the illustrated embodiment,
the right ear cup 1100a is electrically connected to the left ear
cup 1100b via a wire concealed in the headband 1200 in this
example. In another embodiment, the right ear cup 1100a and the
second ear cup 1100b each include a transceiver and communicate to
one another wirelessly. In yet another embodiment, the right ear
cup 1100a and the left ear cup 1100b communicate using a
combination of wired and wireless signaling.
[0038] Additional details of the multi-source audio amplification
and ear protection device 1000 can be as described herein.
Growth Band
[0039] FIG. 2 depicts an embodiment of a removable growth band 2000
that can removably couple to the headband 1200, as discussed
further below. The removable growth band 2000 can have a central
band portion 2200 (e.g., a support band), a first strap 2100a, and
a second strap 2100b (e.g., fastening straps). In some embodiments,
the first strap 2100a and the second strap 2100b extend parallel to
each other and are connected by the central band portion 2200. The
straps 2100a and 2100b may extend perpendicularly to the central
band portion 2200. In some embodiments, as such in FIG. 2, the
length of the central band portion 2200 extends from the first
strap 2100a to the second strap 2100b so that the removable growth
band 2000 has H-shape when laid flat on a surface. In other
embodiments, the band 2000 can have other shapes. In some
embodiments, the straps 2100a and 2100b may be removable from the
central band portion 2200. In such embodiments, the straps may be
removably attached to the central band portion by means of
VELCRO.RTM., buttons, snaps, or any other suitable mechanisms. In
other embodiments, the straps 2100a and 2100b are permanently fixed
with the central band portion 2200 (e.g., sewn). In some
embodiments, the growth band may further include a third strap
between the first strap and the second strap (e.g., to secure a
portion of the central band portion 2200 located between the first
and second straps 2100a, 2100b to the headband 1200). In some
embodiments, the growth band 2000 may have three or more straps. In
some embodiments, the central band portion 2200 can have a greater
width than the straps 2100a, 2100b. In another embodiment, the
central band portion 2200 can have the same width as the straps
2100a, 2100b. In still another embodiment, the central band portion
2200 can have a smaller width than the straps 2100a, 2100b.
[0040] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the removable
growth band 2000 can be flexible, allowing it to conform to the
shape of the headband 1200 when coupled to the headset 1000, while
able to lay flat (see FIG. 2) when detached from the headset 1000.
The growth band 2000 can include a fabric material (e.g., cotton).
In further embodiments, such fabrics may be machine-washable. In
other embodiments, different parts of the growth band, for example,
the straps 2100a and 2100b, and the central band portion 2200, can
have different materials. In some embodiments, one side of the
growth band 2000 may have different materials with the other side.
For example, one side of the growth band 2000 may have a plusher
material while the other side have a smoother material more
resistant to stain or contamination, such that the side with the
plusher material may contact the user's head and provide more
cushion, while the side with the smoother material may contact the
headband. In further embodiment, one side, for example, the side
with smoother material may have a visual indicator such as a logo,
to allow the user to distinguish sides with different materials and
assemble the growth band with the headband in the correct
orientation. In some embodiments, the growth band 2000 may include
multiple layers of fabrics. In some embodiments, the fabrics may be
infant-safe (e.g., hypoallergenic). In some embodiments, both sides
of the removable growth band 2000 may have a fabric suitable for
contact with the skin, so that the growth band 2000 is
reversible.
[0041] In some embodiments, the central band portion 2200 may
further include a resilient material disposed between two outer
layers of fabric (e.g., between a top layer and a bottom layer of
the central band portion 2200). In some embodiments, the resilient
material can be a foam, a gel, cotton or any other suitable
material or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, such
resilient material is machine-washable. For example the portion of
the growth band 200 that contact's the user's head can be
constructed to be resilient and compressible (e.g., made of fabric
and filled with cotton, foam, gel, or some other compressible,
resilient material), providing increased comfort and to accommodate
some amount of head growth. The thickness of the resilient material
may vary, so that the thickness of the central band portion varies
accordingly. In some embodiments, the thickness of the central band
portion may be 0.5 cm to 10 cm. In some embodiments, the thickness
of the central band portion may be 1 cm to 5 cm.
[0042] In some embodiments, each of the straps 2100a and 2100b may
have at least one attachment element 2101a and 2101b and at least
one receiving elements 2102a and 2102b, wherein the receiving
elements can removably couple to the attachment elements. The
attachment elements and the receiving elements can provide a
temporary coupling, and can be mechanically pulled apart. In some
embodiments, the at least one attachment elements and the at least
one receiving elements are at opposite ends of a single strap
2100a, 2100b. For example, in some embodiments such as in FIG. 2,
the straps 2100a and 2100b have attachment elements 2101a and
2101b, and receiving elements 2102a and 2102b, where attachment
element 2101a can removably couple with receiving element 2102a and
attachment element 2101b can removably couple with receiving
element 2102b. In some embodiments, such the attachment elements
and the receiving elements are in form of hoop-and-loop fasteners
(such as VELCRO.RTM.), buttons, snaps, hooks, or any other suitable
fastening mechanism. In some embodiments, the attachment elements
and the receiving elements are effective after repeated washing of
the growth band.
[0043] The removable growth band 2000 may be removably or fixedly
installed on headsets similar with those described in relation to
FIGS. 1A and 1B. FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrates an embodiment of
headset device 1000 with the growth band 2000 removably attached
thereto. The growth band 2000 may be installed on the device 1000
by securing the straps 2100a and 2100b around the headband 1200. In
some embodiments, the straps 2100a, 2100b may be removably secured
by mating attachment elements 2101a and 2101b with corresponding
receiving elements 2102a and 2102b respectively. In some
embodiments, the central band portion 2200 may be aligned with the
headband 1200 before securing the straps 2100a and 2100b around the
headband 1200.
[0044] The growth band 2000 may be removed from the device 1000 by
un-securing the straps around the head band 1200. In some
embodiments, the straps can be unsecured by detaching the
attachment elements 2101a, 2101b from the receiving elements 2102a,
2102b, for example, by application of force. In some embodiments,
the attachment elements 2101a, 2101b and the receiving elements
2102a, 2102b can withstand multiple attachment and detachment
cycles, so that the growth band 2000 can be installed and removed
from the device 1000 as needed. In other embodiments (not
illustrated) the growth band 2000 is fixedly attached to the
headset 1200. For instance, the ends of the growth band 2000 or
some other portion of the growth band 2000 can be sewn onto, form a
part of, or be otherwise affixed to the headband.
[0045] As illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3B, the growth band 2000 may be
supported by the headband 1200 so that the central band portion
2200 is disposed between an underside of the headband 1200 and a
user's head (not shown) when in use. Therefore, the central band
portion 2200 can advantageously facilitate the secure and stable
fitting of the headset device 1000 on the head of the infant user
even when the device 1000 is too large for the infant, for example
by filling the gap between the infant's head and the headband 1200
of the headset device 1000. In some embodiments, the growth band
2000 can conform to the inner curve of the head band 1200. In
further embodiments, the growth band 2000 can conform to the head
of the infant, so that the central band portion 2200 contacts the
infant's head and the headband 1200 during use. In some
embodiments, the central band portion 2200 may not be attached to
the headband 1200 while other parts of the growth band, for
example, the first strap 2100a to the second strap 2100b are
attached to the headband 1200. In some embodiments, the central
band portion 2200 may suspend from the headband 1200 such that
there may be a spacing between the headband 1200 and the central
band portion 2200 when the headset is not worn by the user, and the
central band portion 2200 may be movable towards the headband 1200
in response to urging from the user's head when the headset is in
use, such that the spacing between the headband 1200 and the
central band portion 2200 is reduced or completely removed,
accommodating growth of the infant's head while maintaining comfort
and a snug fit.
[0046] In some embodiments, the resilient material of the central
band portion 2200 advantageously cushions the headband 1200 on the
infant's head. In some embodiments, the central band portion 2200
is advantageously absorbent and absorbs, for example, perspiration
on the infant's head. In some embodiments, the user may choose the
growth band 2000 having an appropriate thickness, so that there is
minimal space between the head band 1200 and the head of the
infant. The user may change the growth band 2000 to a thinner one,
or may completely remove the growth band as the head of the infant
grows and the space between the head and the head band gets
smaller. In some embodiments, the headset device 1000 can be
packaged with multiple removable growth bands 2000 of varying
thickness, so that the user may choose and install the appropriate
growth band 2000 for the infant to use while wearing the headset
device 1000.
[0047] The removable growth 2000 band may be coupled with any
headsets that are similar to the headsets that are described in
relation to FIGS. 1A-4C, or any other devices that the user may
find suitable. For example, the removable growth band 2000 as
described in this section or elsewhere in the specification may be
coupled with any types of earmuffs or headphones described
below.
Multi-Source Audio Amplification and Ear Protection Device
[0048] FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram of a multi-source audio
amplification and ear protection device 600 according to one
embodiment. The multi-source audio amplification and ear protection
device 600 includes microphone(s) 601, ambient sound amplification
and processing circuitry 602, speaker(s) 603, memory 604, power
management circuitry 605, user interface(s) 606, secondary sound
source amplification and processing circuitry 607, a built-in audio
component 608, control circuitry 609, an optional transceiver 610,
an optional display 611, a biometrics component 612, and other
components 613. As shown in FIG. 4, the ambient sound amplification
and processing circuitry 602 includes frequency dependent
processing circuitry 621 (equalization circuitry, in this example)
and automatic gain control circuitry 622.
[0049] Although one example of components and functionality is
shown in FIG. 4, a multi-source audio amplification and ear
protection device can include more or fewer features. Moreover, a
multi-source audio amplification and ear protection device can be
implemented using a wide variety of form factors, including any of
the form factors shown and described herein or another form
factor.
Terminology
[0050] Conditional language, such as, among others, "can," "could,"
"might," or "may," unless specifically stated otherwise, or
otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally
intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other
embodiments do not include, certain features, elements and/or
steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to
imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required
for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments
necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input
or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are
included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.
Conjunctions, such as "and," "or" are used interchangeably and are
intended to encompass any one element, combination, or entirety of
elements to which the conjunction refers.
[0051] Depending on the embodiment, certain acts, events, or
functions of any of the algorithms described herein can be
performed in a different sequence, can be added, merged, or left
out altogether (e.g., not all described acts or events are
necessary for the practice of the algorithms). Moreover, in certain
embodiments, acts or events can be performed concurrently, e.g.,
through multi-threaded processing, interrupt processing, or
multiple processors or processor cores or on other parallel
architectures, rather than sequentially.
[0052] The multi-source audio amplification and ear protection
devices described herein may comprise software, firmware, hardware,
or any combination(s) of software, firmware, or hardware suitable
for the purposes described herein. Various disclosed and
illustrated modules may be implemented as software and/or firmware
on a logic circuitry, processor, microcontroller, ASIC/FPGA, or
dedicated hardware. Software and other modules may reside remotely
from a multi-source audio amplification and ear protection device,
such as on personal computers, computerized tablets, PDAs, and
other devices suitable for the purposes described herein, such as
remote control of a multi-source audio amplification and ear
protection device. Software and other modules may be accessible via
local memory, via a network, or via other means suitable for the
purposes described herein. User interface components described
herein may comprise buttons, knobs, wheels, switches, touchscreen
interfaces, and other suitable interfaces.
[0053] Computer program instructions may be stored in a
computer-readable memory that can direct a computer or other
programmable data processing apparatus to operate in a particular
manner, thereby aiding in controlling a multi-source audio
amplification and ear protection device.
[0054] The processing of the various components of the illustrated
systems can be distributed across multiple logic circuits,
processors, and other computing resources. In addition, two or more
components of a system can be combined into fewer components.
Various components of the illustrated systems can be implemented in
one or more virtual machines, rather than in dedicated computer
hardware systems. Moreover, in some embodiments the connections
between the components shown represent possible paths of data flow,
rather than actual connections between hardware. While some
examples of possible connections are shown, any of the subset of
the components shown can communicate with any other subset of
components in various implementations.
[0055] While certain embodiments of the inventions have been
described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example
only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.
For example, while many of the headset embodiments and the growth
band described above are described in connection with their use by
an infant, one of skill in the art will recognize that the headsets
and growth band can be sized to accommodate larger head sizes, such
as the head of a school age child, an adolescent, an adult, or
someone with an injured skull (e.g., due to surgery) over whose
head conventional headsets do not fit properly. Therefore, the
concepts described herein can be applicable to a variety of users
and are not limited to use by infants. Indeed, the novel methods
and systems described herein may be embodied in a variety of other
forms. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes in
the systems and methods described herein may be made without
departing from the spirit of the disclosure. The accompanying
claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or
modifications as would fall within the scope and spirit of the
disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of the present inventions is
defined only by reference to the appended claims.
[0056] Features, materials, characteristics, or groups described in
conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment, or example are to
be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or
example described in this section or elsewhere in this
specification unless incompatible therewith. All of the features
disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims,
abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or
process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except
combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are
mutually exclusive. The protection is not restricted to the details
of any foregoing embodiments. The protection extends to any novel
one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this
specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and
drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the
steps of any method or process so disclosed.
[0057] Furthermore, certain features that are described in this
disclosure in the context of separate implementations can also be
implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely,
various features that are described in the context of a single
implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations
separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although
features may be described above as acting in certain combinations,
one or more features from a claimed combination can, in some cases,
be excised from the combination, and the combination may be claimed
as a subcombination or variation of a sub combination.
[0058] Moreover, while operations may be depicted in the drawings
or described in the specification in a particular order, such
operations need not be performed in the particular order shown or
in sequential order, or that all operations be performed, to
achieve desirable results. Other operations that are not depicted
or described can be incorporated in the example methods and
processes. For example, one or more additional operations can be
performed before, after, simultaneously, or between any of the
described operations. Further, the operations may be rearranged or
reordered in other implementations. Those skilled in the art will
appreciate that in some embodiments, the actual steps taken in the
processes illustrated and/or disclosed may differ from those shown
in the figures. Depending on the embodiment, certain of the steps
described above may be removed, others may be added. Furthermore,
the features and attributes of the specific embodiments disclosed
above may be combined in different ways to form additional
embodiments, all of which fall within the scope of the present
disclosure. Also, the separation of various system components in
the implementations described above should not be understood as
requiring such separation in all implementations, and it should be
understood that the described components and systems can generally
be integrated together in a single product or packaged into
multiple products.
[0059] For purposes of this disclosure, certain aspects,
advantages, and novel features are described herein. Not
necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with
any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, those skilled in the
art will recognize that the disclosure may be embodied or carried
out in a manner that achieves one advantage or a group of
advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other
advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.
[0060] Conjunctive language such as the phrase "at least one of X,
Y, and Z," unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise
understood with the context as used in general to convey that an
item, term, etc. may be either X, Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive
language is not generally intended to imply that certain
embodiments require the presence of at least one of X, at least one
of Y, and at least one of Z.
[0061] Language of degree used herein, such as the terms
"approximately," "about," "generally," and "substantially" as used
herein represent a value, amount, or characteristic close to the
stated value, amount, or characteristic that still performs a
desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the
terms "approximately", "about", "generally," and "substantially"
may refer to an amount that is within less than 10% of, within less
than 5% of, within less than 1% of, within less than 0.1% of, and
within less than 0.01% of the stated amount. As another example, in
certain embodiments, the terms "generally parallel" and
"substantially parallel" refer to a value, amount, or
characteristic that departs from exactly parallel by less than or
equal to 15 degrees, 10 degrees, 5 degrees, 3 degrees, 1 degree, or
0.1 degree.
[0062] The scope of the present disclosure is not intended to be
limited by the specific disclosures of preferred embodiments in
this section or elsewhere in this specification, and may be defined
by claims as presented in this section or elsewhere in this
specification or as presented in the future. The language of the
claims is to be interpreted broadly based on the language employed
in the claims and not limited to the examples described in the
present specification or during the prosecution of the application,
which examples are to be construed as non-exclusive.
* * * * *