DE102022000435A1 - Device with layer structure and film for sound transmission - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for sound transmission. The device (10) is set up for sound transmission in order to produce a sound sensation by stimulating the air column in the ear. The device (10) has at least one sound generating device (20) and one sound propagating device (30). The sound propagation device (30) is acoustically coupled to the sound generating device (20).

Description

Technical field:

The invention relates to a device for sound transmission.

State of the art:

The Patent Specifications US3384719A , JP2004057281A , EP2757923B1 and WO1999058088A1 disclose a cushion with an electroacoustic converter, ie a loudspeaker arrangement for the transmission of audio signals, and padding. The audio signal is transmitted via air in an undirected manner into free space.

According to the invention, as explained in the description, the signal is not radiated directly into the air, but introduced into a liquid or a gel. The audio signal is then coupled into the air column inside the user's ear via a form fit. This means that the signal is only audible to the user. This prevents disturbance to the environment. Furthermore, by stimulating the air column in the ear, the necessary sound level is greatly reduced. This clearly distinguishes the invention from the prior art indicated above.

In CN102125369A describes a medical neck pillow for the prevention and treatment of cervical spondylosis, which is characterized in that it has the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped with convex upper and lower sides.

The invention differs from the prior art in that the pillow is not a parallelepiped and thus allows better support in the neck area. In addition, the underside of the pillow is not curved to allow a more stable support on the ground.

CN101961189A describes a health pillow, wherein the pillow core has a three-layer structure and strips in the longitudinal direction in order to be able to absorb herbs.

The pillow according to the invention has no strips incorporated in one layer since no herbs are introduced. Rather, the pillow according to the invention has only 2 outer layers and a pillow core. In contrast to the prior art, the outer layers are designed in such a way that they offer the most comfortable possible support for the head and at the same time do not negatively affect the sound transmission.

This in US10455957B2 The health pillow described is divided into different areas for explanation only, but is in itself made of one piece and specially designed for support.

The cushion according to the invention, on the other hand, consists of an upper and lower side and a middle area for accommodating a gel and acoustic unit.

CN109364184A describes an S-shaped pillow.

The pad design of the present invention is intentionally not S-shaped to allow for face-to-face contact. The pillow according to the invention also consists of at least two different foam materials, with the pillow consisting of memory foam or latex foam on the top and cold foam or PU foam on the bottom. The boundary layer between the so-called pocket and the upper surface must be ≤10mm for acoustic reasons.

A U-shaped neck pillow with a cervical support surface and shock absorbing elements is in TW1636753B described. The main material here is a foam that serves as a buffer structure between the inner layered structure and the outer layered structure. The gel used in the prior art is a solid-state gel.

For the intended use, namely sound transmission, the invention describes a liquid gel which is sealed in a film, which is why the invention clearly differs from the prior art here.

CN111712223A and CN107911780B describe an apparatus with a vibrating device that generates a vibration signal that is applied to a portion of the user's head such that the vibration signal is transmitted through the user's bones. The therapeutically effective vibration signal has a frequency of less than 200 Hz and a power level of more than 87 dB.

In contrast to the prior art, in which a vibration is transmitted directly by a vibrator into the user's cranial bone, i.e. solid to solid without a transmitter, in the invention a vibration is transmitted from a vibrator to a transmitter plate. This transmitter plate spreads the vibration over a large area and passes it on to a liquid. As a result, the pillow according to the invention can also adapt to the head and the ear when lying on its side. The user takes the vibration of the liquid as sound and according to the invention in that the air trapped in the auditory canal is set in motion. The excited frequency range here is around 16 Hz to 20,000 Hz. Frequency ranges are optimized in such a way that frequencies filtered by the liquid are particularly strengthened in the vibrator.

In CN105794223B a type of Bluetooth loudspeaker is described, which is movably positioned within a material.

In contrast to the state of the art, the sound transmission in the cushion is not movable but permanently installed. This is essential for using the cushion according to the invention, since this is the only way to achieve the appropriate sound pressure distribution and sound radiation characteristics.

CN101554282B describes a traction cervical health cushion using a simple vibration motor for stimulation without sound transmission.

In the case of the invention, it is a basic prerequisite for the intended use that a processed sound signal can be transmitted.

In CN206699927U and similar in CN106388473B a cushion is described which dampens the ambient noise and superimposes or extinguishes the remaining signal by superimposing it with another signal.

According to the invention, no signal should be erased before it reaches the ear, but rather a signal should be coupled into the ear in a targeted manner in order to superimpose the disturbing noise that the tinnitus causes in the ear.

Task:

The object is a device for sound transmission, in particular for sound transmission using a liquid or a gel, to stimulate the air column in the ear in such a way that sound transmission is almost impossible if there is no contact with the device, i.e. it has only a limited acoustic range , to develop. The disadvantages of headphones, such as discomfort when lying on one side and the suppression of background noise, should be eliminated.

This object is solved by the subject matter of the independent patent claims. Further developments of the invention result from the dependent claims and the following description.

Description:

One aspect of the invention relates to a device that is set up for sound transmission. The device can be used to produce a sound sensation by stimulating the air column in the ear. The device has at least one sound generating device and one sound propagating device. The sound propagation device is arranged acoustically coupled to the sound generating device. The sound propagation device is set up to evoke the perception of sound in the ear by acoustically coupling the sound propagation device to the air column.

In the case of at least some devices, the sound is transmitted to a large extent, in the case of at least some devices even to a large extent, by an almost form-fitting contact of the device to the ear. In addition, at least part of the generated noise can also be transmitted in another way, e.g. structure-borne noise.

Another aspect of the invention relates to the soundproofing of the sound generating device mounted within the device. The sound insulation in the device is achieved purely passively through the optimized structure in different layers. The sound source and the sound insulation are therefore completely in the device.

The sound generating device can, for example, be a loudspeaker and/or use a sound generating device of a loudspeaker. One or more sound generating devices can be used. The sound generating device can use different principles such as an electrodynamic, piezoelectric or capacitive principle.

The sound propagation device can be deformable, for example plastically, reversibly plastically or elastically deformable. The deformability can advantageously contribute to better sound transmission and/or greater comfort when lying on the sound propagation device.

The sound propagation device is arranged acoustically coupled to the sound generating device. This can be realized, for example, by direct contact between the sound propagation device and the sound generating device, or also by inserting an intermediate layer of a medium with good acoustic conductivity. The direct contact of the sound propagation device with the sound generating device or the intermediate layer can be detachable or non-detachable. In particular, can the contact of the sound propagation device to the sound generating device can be realized by means of gluing and/or by means of a positive and/or material connection.

The deformable sound propagation device is set up to evoke the perception of sound through acoustic coupling. Due to the design of the sound propagation device, e.g. due to its deformability, a large part of the head and thus of the ear can rest on the sound propagation device during operation of the device and thus contribute to the qualitatively good sound transmission, i.e. with low attenuation. The sound propagation device can be designed as one or more chambers, as connected or separate chambers. The sound generating device(s) and/or the sound propagation device(s) are arranged and/or designed in such a way that only a small part of the sound is emitted to the environment. As a result, the sound can be limited to an immediate area around the sound body.

This spatially limiting or limited effect can be further supported in some embodiments, for example if the user has physical contact with the device or the sound body.

The sound can essentially only spread in the air column in the ear. Advantageously, this can be used to ensure that the sound is only perceived by the person who, for example, is in direct contact with the device and thus does not disturb other people in the same room, or at least to a lesser extent than through a loudspeaker. This can be particularly advantageous when the device is placed in a pillow and in this way disturbs another person on a couch, bed, etc. to a lesser extent than would be the case, for example, with a loudspeaker.

The device can also be arranged, for example, in the head part of seats, e.g. Because the average distance from the outer ear to the sound generator may be less, e.g. compared to a conventional speaker and/or a point sound source, a lower sound pressure level from the sound generating device may be required for the same perceived loudness. As a result, the sound conversion can be particularly efficient, at least in some embodiments. For example, a ratio of a sound pressure in an inner ear to an input power of the sound generating device can serve as a measure of the efficiency.

In some embodiments, the sound or sound can be transmitted substantially from the entire sound propagation device, i.e. areally. This can advantageously have the effect that, for example in comparison to point sources of sound, a larger area can be supplied with an essentially uniform volume. Furthermore, a volume distribution can thus be achieved which, in at least some other devices, is only achieved by means of a greater distance from the sound generator.

In some embodiments, the sound generating device is an electrodynamic, electrostatic, or piezoelectric sound transducer. With this, the device can advantageously be adapted to a wide range of requirements and can take into account aspects such as robustness, converter efficiency, dimensions (e.g. volume), costs and/or other aspects. For example, a particularly robust piezoelectric sound transducer can be used. In one embodiment, an electrodynamic sound transducer can have a spring at one end opposite the membrane, in order to achieve better vibration behavior of a moving part of the sound transducer under load - e.g. when the head is placed on it.

In some embodiments, the device has a plurality of sound generating devices. This allows e.g. directional effects such as stereo, etc. to be implemented. A concentration on a specific area, e.g. on a center, of the sound propagation device can thus also be achieved. This specific area can also be designed variably, e.g. the sound source can "go along" with a movement of the head and thus contribute to a more constant and/or better listening experience.

In some embodiments, more than one sound generating device may be associated with a sound propagating device.

In some embodiments, the multiple sound generating devices are arranged in the form of a matrix. The matrix can be designed, for example, as a 2D matrix or grid with uniform spacing of the sound-generating devices. For example, the matrix may have a concentric or elliptical distribution of the sound generating devices. The matrix can also have non-uniform spacing of the sound generating devices, for example with more sound generating devices in a center and/or in the area of an edge of the sound propagating device. With this, the device can be adapted to a wide variety of sound experience desires or specifications.

In some embodiments, the sound propagation device is at least partially elastically or reversibly plastically deformable. For example, if the sound generating device is arranged on a first side (e.g., a “backside”) of the sound propagating device, a second side (e.g., a “frontside”) of the sound propagating device, or a portion of the second side, may be deformable. This allows the device to better conform to and/or encompass at least part of the human head. In this way, for example, more efficient acoustic coupling and/or greater comfort can be achieved.

In at least some embodiments, a material of the sound propagation device is selected in such a way that, in the event of plastic deformation, its acoustic properties, in particular the sound propagation and/or the damping, do not deteriorate significantly or even improve.

In some embodiments, the sound propagation device is embodied as a shell that contains a fluid and/or a gel and/or a suspension.

In one embodiment, the device is set up to heat the fluid. Such heat sources can advantageously offer the user further comfort.

In some embodiments, materials with different sound propagation speeds may be used. For example, by using a medium as a sound body with a higher speed of sound than air, such as water, other liquids or gels, a widespread spread can be suggested to the user.

In some embodiments, the device further comprises a technical unit. The technical unit is set up to control the sound-generating device. The control can supply the sound generating device with sounds. The technical unit can, for example, comprise a signal generator, an amplifier unit, e.g. Alternatively or additionally, the technical unit can include a control of the device, e.g. for heating, for charging functions, for a "virtual" relocation of the sound sources, for switching on and off and/or for further control functions. The technical unit can also be remotely controlled, wirelessly or wired.

In one embodiment, the technical unit is only activated in the event of direct contact with a body part, preferably the head. This can be implemented, for example, by means of a proximity switch, strain gauges, gyroscope, accelerometer or a pressure-sensitive switch. In this way, it can advantageously be achieved that the device only emits sound when a head comes into contact with the sound propagation device. In this way, the disturbance of an environment and/or of other people and/or the power consumption can be reduced.

In one embodiment, the technical unit can have sensors in order to measure sleep indicators, in particular of a user of the device. Sleep indicators may include, for example, detecting movement of the head, changes in pressure of the head on the sound propagating device, and/or detecting other measurements.

In one embodiment, the sound generating device of a technical unit is controlled, which at least partially compensates for properties, in particular acoustic properties, of the sound transmission. This can be implemented, for example, by means of an equalizer and/or other subsystems that carry out a modification of the sound source(s) for correction. The correction can at least partially contribute to a more natural sound impression or perception.

In some embodiments, the technology unit has a digital receiving unit that is suitable for receiving audio sources and/or for controlling the technology unit using appropriate signals and/or parameters. The receiving unit can, for example, support protocols such as Bluetooth, WLAN (Wireless LAN), DAB (Digital Audio Broadcast) and/or other protocols.

In some embodiments, the technical unit has an accumulator and/or an inductive charging unit. The accumulator can be arranged in the technology unit, for example, and can be charged inductively or via a cable connection during or outside the operation of the device. Furthermore, the state of charge of the accumulator and/or data from sensors can be called up, e.g. via a remote control. This can concern both sensors for data acquisition of the device and sensors for the user.

In some embodiments, the device further includes a housing and/or protective case. The housing and/or the protective cover covers the sound propagation device and/or the sound generating device and/or technical unit at least partially. In this way, protection against mechanical and/or chemical effects can advantageously be achieved. At least some of the protective covers can be designed to be washable. At least some of the housings and/or protective covers can have elements for electromagnetic shielding. At least some of the housings and/or protective covers can contribute to a more comfortable feeling when lying down. At least some of the housings and/or protective covers can be used as a sensor input or heat/cold output.

A further aspect relates to the use of a device for sound transmission, as described above and/or below, for sound transmission to at least partially compensate for noise in the inner ear, such as tinnitus.

For further clarification, the invention is described using the embodiments shown in the figures. These embodiments are meant to be exemplary only and not limiting.

character list

• 1 eine schematische Darstellung einer Vorrichtung gemäß einer Ausführungsform;
• 2 eine schematische Darstellung einer Vorrichtung gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform;
• 3 ein Blockschaltbild eines Teils einer Vorrichtung gemäß einer Ausführungsform.

It shows:

• 1 a schematic representation of a device according to an embodiment;
• 2 a schematic representation of a device according to a further embodiment;
• 3 12 is a block diagram of part of an apparatus according to an embodiment.

Detailed description of embodiments:

1 shows a schematic representation of a device according to an embodiment. The device 10 has two sound generating devices 20 which are each arranged on a deformable sound propagation device 30 in an acoustically coupled manner. The sound generating devices 20 are controlled by a technical unit 40 which is arranged below the sound propagation devices 30 in the embodiment shown. The device 10 is at least partially covered by a housing or protective cover 50 . In at least some embodiments, the housing can be made thin enough to ensure good acoustic coupling with the sound propagation devices 30 . The housing in the embodiment shown is in the form of a pillow.

2 shows a schematic representation of a device 10 according to a further embodiment. In this case, the device 10 has a multiplicity of sound-generating devices 20 . These are arranged on a single sound propagation device 30 in an acoustically coupled manner and are controlled by a technical unit 40 . The device 10 further includes a housing or protective sleeve 50 within which these elements are located. The sound propagation device 30 can be designed to be plastically deformable so that, covered by the thin protective cover 50, it can nestle snugly and acoustically coupled to the human head. The plurality of sound generating devices 20 can be controlled by the technical unit 40 in such a way that sound generating devices 20 “virtually go along” with movements of the head, ie are controlled louder in an area in which or in the vicinity of which the head or ear is currently located. This can improve the listening experience and further reduce disruption to the environment.

3 10 shows a block diagram of a portion of an apparatus 10 according to an embodiment. The block diagram shows a technical unit 40 which controls a sound generating device 20 . The activation of the sound generating device 20 is realized by means of a signal generator or an amplifier unit 48 . Engineering unit 40 may include one or more signal generators or amplifier units 48 . The signal generator(s) or amplifier unit(s) 48 can each control one or more sound generating device(s) 20 . The technology unit 40 further includes an accumulator (or battery) 44 . If the element 44 is designed as an accumulator, it can be charged by means of a charging unit 46, in particular by means of an inductive charging unit. The technical unit 40 also has a control unit 42 . The control unit 42 can include a digital receiving unit 43 . The digital receiving unit 43 can support one or more wireless protocols. The digital receiving unit can be used for the transmission of acoustic signals and/or for control. Alternatively or additionally, the control unit 42 can be a wired receiving unit (in 3 not shown), with similar functions as the digital receiving unit 43. The signal generator(s) or amplifier unit(s) 48, the control unit 42 and/or the connected units, such as the digital receiving unit 43, are powered by the accumulator .

Reference List

10

contraption

20

sound generating device

30

deformable sound propagation device

40

engineering unit

42

control unit

43

digital receiving unit

44

accumulator, battery

46

loading unit

48

amplifier unit

50

housing, protective cover

QUOTES INCLUDED IN DESCRIPTION

This list of documents cited by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent Literature Cited

• US 3384719 A [0002]
• JP 2004057281A [0002]
• EP 2757923 B1 [0002]
• WO 1999058088 A1 [0002]
• CN102125369A [0004]
• CN 101961189A [0006]
• US10455957B2 [0008]
• CN 109364184A [0010]
• TW 1636753 B [0012]
• CN 111712223A [0014]
• CN 107911780B [0014]
• CN 105794223B [0016]
• CN 101554282B [0018]
• CN 206699927 U [0020]
• CN 106388473B [0020]

Claims (13)

Device (10) with a layer structure for sound transmission for causing a sound sensation by stimulating the air column in the ear, consisting of a sound generating device (20) and a sound propagating device (30), characterized in that the sound propagating device (30) is a cover made of a film, which is filled with a liquid or a gel and which absorbs the vibrations of the transmitter and therefore emits as little sound as possible to the environment, but nevertheless transmits the sound as directly as possible in direct contact with the device (10). Device (10) after claim 1 , characterized in that the liquid containing the sound propagation device (30) consists of and/or contains a group of materials which contain water and/or silicone and/or gel, preferably PU gel and/or oil. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the casing of the sound propagation device (30) has several chambers. A device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the shell of the sound propagation device (30) has multiple layers to create chambers within the sheet. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the shell of the sound propagation device (30) has at least five chambers, with an even number of chambers being arranged in the lower area and an odd number of chambers above them in the upper area. Device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the chambers of the envelope of the sound propagation device (30) are arranged symmetrically. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one layer of the casing of the sound propagation device (30) consists of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or ethylene vinyl acetate (.EVA) or thermoplastic elastomers (TPE). Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one layer of the shell of the sound propagation device (30) consists of a layer structure or material mixture which or which either thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) or thermoplastic contains elastomers (TPE). Device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the envelope of the sound propagation device (30) comprises a two to twenty micron thick layer of a material with a barrier function for oxygen, preferably ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH). Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sound propagation device (30) is set up so that the liquid or the gel can be heated and/or cooled. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device (10) is a cushion. Use of a device (10) for sound transmission according to one of the preceding claims for sound transmission for at least partial compensation of inner ear noise. Use of a sound transmission device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, serving to deflect stress and noise.

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