20240040297. ACOUSTIC DETECTION OF IN-EAR HEADPHONE FIT simplified abstract (Apple Inc.)
Contents
ACOUSTIC DETECTION OF IN-EAR HEADPHONE FIT
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
Esge B. Andersen of Campbell CA (US)
Andrew E. Greenwood of San Francisco CA (US)
Tom-Davy W. Saux of Los Altos CA (US)
Baptiste P. Paquier of Saratoga CA (US)
Hanchi Chen of San Jose CA (US)
Raghavendra S. Prabhu of Redondo Beach CA (US)
ACOUSTIC DETECTION OF IN-EAR HEADPHONE FIT - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 20240040297 titled 'ACOUSTIC DETECTION OF IN-EAR HEADPHONE FIT
Simplified Explanation
The abstract describes a method performed by an in-ear headphone that involves obtaining an audio signal from a paired audio source device and using it to drive a speaker in the headphone to output sound into the user's ear canal. The method also obtains a microphone signal that is responsive to the outputted sound and notifies the user to replace the ear tip with a different one if the microphone signal falls below a certain threshold.
- The in-ear headphone has a first ear tip that is inserted into the user's ear canal.
- The audio signal from the paired audio source device is used to drive a speaker in the headphone, producing sound in the ear canal.
- A microphone signal is obtained, which is responsive to the sound outputted into the ear canal.
- If the microphone signal falls below a threshold, the user is notified to replace the first ear tip with a second one.
Potential applications of this technology:
- Personal audio devices: This method can be used in in-ear headphones for personal audio devices such as smartphones, MP3 players, or tablets, providing a better user experience by ensuring optimal sound quality.
- Communication devices: In-ear headphones with this method can be used in communication devices like hands-free headsets or earpieces for clear and reliable audio during phone calls or video conferences.
Problems solved by this technology:
- Inconsistent sound quality: By monitoring the microphone signal, the method can detect if the sound outputted into the ear canal is compromised due to a poorly fitting ear tip. This allows the user to replace the ear tip and maintain consistent sound quality.
- User discomfort: Ill-fitting ear tips can cause discomfort or pain during prolonged use. By notifying the user to replace the ear tip, this method helps prevent discomfort and ensures a comfortable listening experience.
Benefits of this technology:
- Improved sound quality: By ensuring that the ear tip is properly fitted, the method helps optimize sound output into the ear canal, resulting in improved audio quality for the user.
- Enhanced user comfort: By prompting the user to replace the ear tip when necessary, the method helps prevent discomfort or pain caused by ill-fitting ear tips, enhancing the overall comfort of using in-ear headphones.
Original Abstract Submitted
a method performed by an in-ear headphone. coupled to the in-ear headphone is a first ear tip that is inserted into an ear canal of a user. the method obtains an audio signal from an audio source device paired with the in-ear headphone and uses the signal to drive a speaker of the headphone to output a sound into the ear canal. the method obtains a microphone signal that is responsive to the outputted sound. the method notifies the user to replace the first ear tip with a second ear tip in response to a parameter associated with the microphone signal being less than a threshold.
