AUDIO DEVICE WITH HALL EFFECT SENSOR PROXIMITY DETECTION AND INDEPENDENT COUPLING

Various implementations include audio devices such as earbuds or earpieces. In certain cases, an audio devices includes a set of earbuds configured to generate a magnetic field. The audio device also includes a case for docking the set of earbuds. The case includes: a Hall effect sensor for detecting proximity to at least one of the earbuds based on the magnetic field; and a power source for charging the set of earbuds while docked in the case. Additional implementations include independent couplings for earbuds or earpieces.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure generally relates to audio devices. More particularly, the disclosure relates to detecting audio device proximity in a storage and/or charging case, and mechanisms for coupling untethered audio devices (e.g., earbuds) to mitigate loss and/or damage.

BACKGROUND

Detecting presence of audio devices in casings can be beneficial, e.g., for controlling device functions and limiting battery usage. Additionally, preventing the loss or damage of untethered audio devices (e.g., earbuds) is desirable.

SUMMARY

Various aspects include an audio device including: a set of earbuds each configured to generate a magnetic field; and a case for docking the set of earbuds, the case including: a Hall effect sensor for detecting proximity to at least one of the earbuds based on the magnetic field; and a power source for charging the set of earbuds while docked in the case.

In certain additional aspects, an audio device includes: a case having at least one magnet; and a set of earbuds for docking in the case, wherein each earbud comprises a Hall effect sensor for indicating proximity to the at least one magnet to indicate that a corresponding earbud is docked in the case.

In further aspects, an open-ear audio device includes: a first open-ear earpiece housing an electro-acoustic transducer and including a first coupler; a second open-ear earpiece housing an electro-acoustic transducer and including a second coupler, where the first coupler and the second coupler are configured to couple the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece while not in use on a user’s ears.

In additional aspects, an open-ear audio device includes: a first open-ear earpiece housing an electro-acoustic transducer and including a first coupler; a second open-ear earpiece housing an electro-acoustic transducer and including a second coupler; and a common connector for coupling with the first coupler and the second coupler while the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece are not in use on a user’s ears, wherein the first coupler is integral with the first open-ear earpiece and the second coupler is integral with the second open-ear earpiece.

In additional particular aspects, a method includes detecting docking in and/or removal from an earbud case of a set of earbuds based on a signal received from a Hall effect sensor in the earbud case or a Hall effect sensor in the set of earbuds.

In some cases, each earbud includes an electro-acoustic transducer configured to generate the magnetic field, and the Hall effect sensor is sensitive to the magnetic field generated by the electro-acoustic transducer to detect the proximity to one of the earbuds.

In particular aspects, each earbud includes at least one magnet that generates the magnetic field. In some implementations, the magnet(s) are located in the battery barrel of the earbud.

In certain cases, the set of earbuds include a pair of in-ear audio devices or open-ear audio devices that are untethered relative to one another.

In some implementations, the earbuds include the open-ear audio devices.

In particular cases, the open-ear audio devices include ear cuffs.

In certain aspects, the audio device further includes at least one additional Hall effect sensor for detecting proximity to an additional one of the set of earbuds or detecting an orientation of at least one of the set of earbuds. In some examples, the Hall effect sensor(s) are oriented to detect an earbud once seated in a slot in the case. In particular examples, the Hall effect sensor(s) are positioned to be sensitive to one or both earbuds being present in the case.

In particular implementations, the Hall effect sensor is configured to detect the magnetic field from each earbud regardless of a power state of the earbud. In some examples, the Hall effect sensor is configured to detect the magnetic field from each earbud even when the earbud battery is depleted beyond a threshold to provide a voltage-based measurement, such as when the battery is at or below several percent charge.

In some cases, each earbud further includes an additional Hall effect sensor and the case further includes at least one magnet, where the additional Hall effect sensor in each earbud is configured to perform at least one of: indicate proximity to the case based on a detected magnetic field from the at least one magnet, or indicate proximity to the other one of the earbuds based on detecting the magnetic field generated by the corresponding earbud. In some examples, indicating proximity to the case can be used to verify proximity and/or docking of an earbud, or can be used independently. In additional examples, indicating proximity to another earbud can trigger a change in operating mode, for example, switching to a sleep mode, shutdown, and/or pausing or stopping audio playback in response to detecting close proximity between earbuds that is indicative of the earbuds being off-head.

In certain aspects, the case is configured to initiate a charging protocol for charging the earbuds in response to the Hall effect sensor detecting proximity to at least one of the earbuds. In particular examples, the case includes a set of slots for docking the earbuds, and a controller coupled with the Hall effect sensor and the power source. In additional examples, docking can be orientation-specific, e.g., left orientation as compared with right orientation.

In particular implementations, the case further includes: an additional Hall effect sensor for detecting a magnetic field generated by each of the set of earbuds; and a power source for charging the set of earbuds while docked in the case.

In some cases, each earbud includes an electro-acoustic transducer configured to generate a magnetic field, and the additional Hall effect sensor is sensitive to the magnetic field generated by the electro-acoustic transducer to detect the proximity to one of the earbuds.

In certain aspects, the set of earbuds includes open ear audio devices. In some examples, the open ear audio devices include ear cuffs.

In particular cases, the first coupler and the second coupler each include a magnet for coupling the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece. In certain examples, the magnets can be located in the battery barrel of the earpiece to orient the ear cuffs in a same direction, e.g., side-by-side.

In some implementations, the magnets are detectable by a Hall effect sensor in a charging case for the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece.

In certain aspects, the first coupler and the second coupler include complementary connectors for coupling the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece.

In particular implementations, the complementary connectors include at least one of: a snap-fit connector, an interlocking connector, a force-fit connector, or a magnet.

In some cases, the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece are untethered such that first coupler and the second coupler provide approximately all of a retaining force in coupling the first and second earpieces.

In certain aspects, the first coupler and the second coupler retain the first and second earpieces together independently of a charging case or a storage case.

In some implementations, the audio device further includes a removable tether configured to connect to at least one of the first open-ear earpiece or the second open-ear earpiece.

In particular cases, the removable tether includes a connector for connecting to an external power source or an external data source. In some examples, one end of the tether connects to a power and/or data input, and another end of the connector is coupled to the ear cuffs. In certain examples, the connector includes a USB connector.

In certain implementations, when the removable tether is connected to the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece and the first coupler and second coupler are connected, the open-ear audio device forms an annular piece of jewelry or a keychain.

In particular cases, the removable tether includes a backup battery and a connector for at least one of charging an onboard battery at the open-ear earpieces or directly powering the open-ear earpieces.

In some aspects, the audio device further includes a charging dish for charging an onboard battery in each of the open-ear earpieces when connected.

In particular cases, the common connector includes a tether.

In certain aspects, the common connector includes a power connector for charging the first open-ear earpiece and the second open-ear earpiece independently of a charging case.

In some implementations, the first coupler and the second coupler are complementary to permit direct coupling of the first open-ear earpiece to the second open-ear earpiece.

In particular aspects, the first coupler and the second coupler include magnets.

In certain cases, a Hall effect sensor is located in the earbud case and/or in the set of earbuds.

In some examples, a method further includes initiating charging of the set of earbuds in response to detecting docking of the set of earbuds in the earbud case.

Two or more features described in this disclosure, including those described in this summary section, may be combined to form implementations not specifically described herein.

It is noted that the drawings of the various implementations are not necessarily to scale. The drawings are intended to depict only typical aspects of the disclosure, and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope of the implementations. In the drawings, like numbering represents like elements between the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This disclosure is based, at least in part, on the realization that a Hall effect sensor can be used in an audio device (e.g., earbud) case to aid in detecting proximity of the device (e.g., one or more earbuds). This disclosure is further based, at least in part, on the realization that a Hall effect sensor can be used in one or more earbuds in a set to indicate docking of the earbud(s) in a case, and/or to indicate proximity between the earbuds. This disclosure is further based, at least in part, on the realization that an open-ear audio device with separate earpieces (e.g., ear cuffs) can include an integrated coupler for coupling the earpieces together, or to a common connector such as a tether or a piece of jewelry.

Commonly labeled components in the FIGURES are considered to be substantially equivalent components for the purposes of illustration, and redundant discussion of those components is omitted for clarity. Numerical ranges and values described according to various implementations are merely examples of such ranges and values, and are not intended to be limiting of those implementations. In some cases, the term “approximately” is used to modify values, and in these cases, can refer to that value +/- a margin of error, such as a measurement error, which may range from up to 1-5 percent.

Aspects and implementations disclosed herein may be applicable to a wide variety of wearable audio devices in various form factors, such as head-worn devices (e.g., headsets, headphones, earphones, eyeglasses, helmets, hats, visors,), neck-worn speakers, shoulder-worn speakers, body-worn speakers (e.g., watches), etc. Some particular aspects disclosed may be applicable to personal (wearable) audio devices such as in-ear audio devices or on-ear audio devices, referred to collectively herein as earbuds. Additional particular aspects disclosed may be applicable to wearable audio devices such as tethered or untethered open-ear headphones, referred to as ear cuffs. It should be noted that although specific implementations of audio devices primarily serving the purpose of acoustically outputting audio are presented with some degree of detail, such presentations of specific implementations are intended to facilitate understanding through provision of examples and should not be taken as limiting either the scope of disclosure or the scope of claim coverage.

The wearable audio devices disclosed herein can include additional features and capabilities not explicitly described. These wearable audio devices can include additional hardware components, such as one or more cameras, location tracking devices, microphones, etc., and may be capable of voice recognition, visual recognition, and other smart device functions. The description of wearable audio devices included herein is not intended to exclude these additional capabilities in such a device.

In particular implementations,FIG.1illustrates an example of systems and devices that may incorporate the teachings of the various implementations. This example is not intended to be limiting.

FIG.1is a schematic depiction of an example audio system10. In this example, the audio system10includes an audio headset20having a pair of audio devices30, which in this particular implementation, are two distinct earbuds such as open-ear headphones30A,30B as described in U.S. Pat. No. 11,140,469 (“Open-Ear Headphone”), the entirety of which is incorporated by reference. While the audio devices (also called ear cuffs, or headphones herein)30are shown in a “true” wireless configuration (i.e., without tethering between earbuds), the audio headset20could also include a tethered wireless configuration (whereby the earbuds are connected via wire with a wireless connection to a playback device) or a wired configuration (whereby at least one of the earbuds has a wired connection to a playback device).

Devices30A,30B (e.g., open-ear headphones, or ear cuffs), include an acoustic module configured to be located at least in part in a concha of an outer ear of a user. The device30A,30B is configured such that when the acoustic module is placed into the cavum conchae of the ear the body passes over at least one of the antihelix, the helix, and the lobule of the ear. In an example, the body is generally “L”-shaped and the acoustic module and body together (i.e., the entire open-ear headphone) is generally “C”-shaped. In an example, the center of gravity of the open-ear headphone is between the acoustic module and the second portion of the body. The center of gravity can be located in or near the part of the outer ear that is between the acoustic module and the second portion of the body (e.g., the helix or lobule). As shown inFIG.1, device30A,30B includes an acoustic module35that is sized, shaped, and located relative to the open-ear headphone body40such that the acoustic module35is configured to be located in the concha of the outer ear of the user. Generally, the outer ear (also known as the auricle or pinna) of a human includes a concha that is immediately adjacent to the entrance to the ear canal, which is underneath (or, behind) the tragus. The concha is divided by the helix crus into a lower portion termed the cavum conchae and an upper portion termed the cymba conchae. The cavum conchae is a generally bowl-shaped feature that is directly adjacent to the ear canal. The cavum conchae typically includes a depression bordered by the antitragus, which is the lower part of the anti-helix and/or bordered by the lobule. The lobule (i.e., the earlobe), which is at the lower end of the helix, is typically just below the antitragus. The body40is coupled to acoustic module35and includes a first portion60that is configured to pass over the outer side of the ear (e.g., at least one of the anti-helix and helix and lobule of the outer ear), and a second portion80that is configured to be located behind the outer ear. Body40is generally “L”-shaped from the side (as shown inFIG.1) with portion60running at about a right angle to acoustic module35, connecting portion75running at about a right angle to portion60and leading to distal portion80. In an example, portion80can be generally cylindrical such that it is configured to hold a generally cylindrical battery power source (e.g., a rechargeable battery). Overall, device30(e.g., open-ear headphone) is generally “C”-shaped, as shown inFIG.1. In an example, acoustic module35and body40are parts of a unitary molded plastic housing that is constructed and arranged to contain the transducer, the battery, and any necessary electronics for operation of the headphone.

The body40can include a casing formed of one or more plastics or composite materials. In this example configuration, the body40can include a an outer casing for housing electronics70, which can include components of an interface. As described herein according to various implementations, the body40(including, e.g., outer casing) can include at least one magnet (e.g., internal to the casing). In certain implementations, as described herein, the magnet(s) can be positioned to enable magnetic coupling of audio devices30A,30B, and/or proximity-based detection by another device (e.g., a storage and/or charging case, or another audio device). As also described herein according to various implementations, the body40can include at least one Hall effect sensor that can, for example, aid in proximity detection and related functions.

In some cases, separate, or duplicate sets of electronics70are contained in portions of the audio device30, e.g., each of the respective audio devices30. However, certain components described herein can also be present in singular form. In some examples, the system10includes an additional device55, which in this example is a docking station or case (e.g., charging case) for the audio devices (open-ear headphones30). In various implementations, the case55is configured to house the devices30A,30B (e.g., for storage) and in some cases can include a power source or connection to a power source for charging the headphones30A,30B. The case55can include electronics170, some of which may be similar to electronics70in the open-ear headphones30A,30B. Receptacles (e.g., slots, seats, or other openings)25are shown in phantom within the case55for holding the headphones30A,30B. The receptacles25can each be sized to receive a headphone30A,30B. As described herein, receptacles25can be sized to receive the headphones30A,30B in a particular (e.g., only one) orientation.

FIG.2shows a cut-away view of the portion80of device30, e.g., illustrating the battery barrel200, including a printed circuit board (PCB)210coupled with a set of battery cells220, and one or more magnets230. In this example, a plurality of magnets230are arranged on an outer surface of the PCB210. In certain implementations, magnets230are located in a distinct portion of the device30, e.g., in the body40or proximate the acoustic module35. As described herein, in optional implementations, the device30can include a Hall effect sensor310for example, to aid in proximity detection functions.

Example electronics70in audio devices30are depicted in schematic form inFIG.3. Additionally, magnets230, which can be located adjacent to an electronics compartment or contained with one or more portions of the electronics70in audio devices30are illustrated inFIG.3.

It is understood that one or more of the components in electronics70may be implemented as hardware and/or software, and that such components may be connected by any conventional means (e.g., hard-wired and/or wireless connection). It is further understood that any component described as connected or coupled to another component in the devices or other systems disclosed according to implementations may communicate using any conventional hard-wired connection and/or additional communications protocols. In some cases, communications protocol(s) can include a Wi-Fi protocol using a wireless local area network (LAN), a communication protocol such as IEEE 802.11 b/g a cellular network-based protocol (e.g., third, fourth or fifth generation (3G, 4G, 5G cellular networks) or one of a plurality of internet-of-things (IoT) protocols, such as: Bluetooth, BLE Bluetooth, ZigBee (mesh LAN), Z-wave (sub-GHz mesh network), 6LoWPAN (a lightweight IP protocol), LTE protocols, RFID, ultrasonic audio protocols, etc. In various particular implementations, separately housed components in the systems10disclosed herein are configured to communicate using one or more conventional wireless transceivers.

As shown inFIG.3, electronics70contained within each device30can include at least one Hall effect sensor310and a controller320coupled to the Hall effect sensor(s)310. In certain optional implementations (depicted in phantom), the electronics70can further include an inertial measurement unit (IMU)330for detecting movement of the device30(e.g., through one or more accelerometers, gyroscopes, and/or magnetometers) and enabling particular control functions. In certain optional cases, electronics70can also include one or more communications (comm.) devices340for sending communications signals to other device(s)30, pairing devices30, connecting with audio gateways, etc. In some optional examples, the electronics70can also include at least one transducer350for providing an audio output, e.g., in a wearable audio device. For example, headphones30can include a transducer350for providing an audio output. One or more components in the electronics70can be connected with the controller320, which is configured to perform control functions according to various implementations described herein.

In certain cases, the Hall effect sensor310is configured to detect proximity to at least one of a set of magnets230in a distinct device, e.g., headphones30and/or a case55. Additionally, as described herein according to various implementations, the Hall effect sensor310can be configured to detect proximity to any device generating a magnetic field in the headphone(s)30and/or case(s)55. For example, the Hall effect sensor310can be used to detect proximity to a device based on a magnetic field generated by one of the electro-acoustic transducers350. In particular, a Hall effect sensor310is configured to sense magnetic flux from nearby magnets such as the magnets230in headphone(s)30and/or case(s)55. In additional cases, a Hall effect sensor310is configured to sense magnetic flux from nearby transducer(s)350in headphone(s)30.

In additional optional implementations, proximity detection can be aided with an additional short-range wireless transmission system, e.g., in communication devices340. In these cases, the short-range wireless transmission system can include a near-field communication (NFC) system and/or Bluetooth communication system. These wireless transmission systems can be used to detect, or confirm device proximity, e.g., using signal strength as a measure of physical proximity.

Returning toFIG.3, in various implementations, the controller320in audio device30can include a processor (e.g., including a logic engine) to execute instructions for detecting proximity between the audio devices30and/or between the audio devices30and the corresponding case55, and controlling device functions. In some cases, a memory is coupled with the processor to store the instructions. In other implementations, the processor can otherwise access the instructions, e.g., from a remote storage system such as a server connected with one or more devices30and/or case55. When executed by the processor in the controller320, the instructions cause the processor to detect proximity between devices30and/or case55and take a prescribed action according to that detection. In some cases, the instructions are part of an application, such as a device detection application, which can be accessed via the server or locally stored in memory, e.g., at the controller320or in another storage system in the device(s). The memory at the device(s) can include, for example, flash memory and/or non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM). In some implementations, instructions (e.g., software such as a device detection application) are stored in an information carrier. The instructions, when executed by one or more processing devices, perform one or more processes, such as those described elsewhere herein. The instructions can also be stored by one or more storage devices, such as one or more (e.g. non-transitory) computer- or machine-readable mediums (for example, the memory, or memory on the processor). As described herein, the memory can include instructions, or the processor can otherwise access instructions for detecting device proximity and taking a prescribed action according to various particular implementations. It is understood that portions of the memory (e.g., instructions) can also be stored in a remote location or in a distributed location, and can be fetched or otherwise obtained by the processor (e.g., via any communications protocol described herein) for execution.

The IMU330can include a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) device that combines a multi-axis accelerometer, gyroscope, and/or magnetometer. It is understood that additional or alternative sensors may perform functions of the IMU330, e.g., an optical-based tracking system, accelerometer, magnetometer, gyroscope or radar for detecting movement as described herein. The IMU330can be configured to detect changes in the physical location/orientation of devices, and provide updated sensor data to the controller320in order to indicate a change in the location/orientation of the device (e.g., audio device30). However, it is understood that the electronics70can also include one or more optical or visual detection systems located at the audio device(s)30and/or case55or another connected device configured to detect the orientation of the audio device(s) and or case. The communication device(s)340can include one or more wireless transceivers configured to communicate over any communications protocol described herein. As noted herein, in the audio devices30, the transducer350can include at least one electroacoustic transducer for producing an acoustic output, for example into, or proximate, the ears of a user in the case of a wearable audio device, or into an environment at one or more firing directions in the case of a speaker system.

The electronics70can also include a power source360, which in some instances includes an onboard battery. For example, the power source360in the audio devices30can include a battery, such as a rechargeable battery.

Additional components included in electronics70and not necessarily depicted can include signal amplification and other digital signal processing (DSP) hardware and/or software, active noise reduction (ANR) and/or controllable noise cancelling (CNC) systems, input/output (I/O) devices, displays and/or user interfaces (UIs), etc. It is understood that these components or functional equivalents of these components can be connected with, or form part of, the controller320.

FIG.4illustrates electronics170in the case55according to various implementations. In certain cases, the case55can include electronics170and additional components (e.g., magnets230) similar to those described with respect to the electronics70in headphones30. For example, electronics170in the case55can include Hall effect sensor(s)410, a controller420, an IMU430, communication device(s)440, and a power source460. In certain cases, the case55includes one or more magnets230. As noted herein, the Hall effect sensor(s)410and/or magnets230at the case55, when coupled with the controller420, can aid in proximity detection functions described herein.

In certain implementations, the power source460in the case55includes a rechargeable battery and/or a power connector for coupling with an external power source, e.g., to charge an onboard battery and/or to charge audio devices30docked in the case55. The power source460can be coupled with the controller320in some cases, however, in other cases, the power source460can be directly coupled with one or more of the connectors for charging one of the audio devices30.

In various implementations, the controller320in one or more audio devices (e.g., audio device30) and/or the controller420in the case55is configured to perform functions in device detection and control. Distinct functions are illustrated in the following sections.

Hall Effect Sensor in Case

As noted herein, various implementations of a case55can include a Hall effect sensor (e.g., Hall effect sensor410). In a particular example, a partially transparent perspective of a case55housing left and right headphones30A,30B is shown inFIG.5. As illustrated, a pair of Hall effect sensors410are located in the case55proximate to receptacles (e.g., slots500) for detecting proximity to at least one of the headphones, e.g., ear cuff-type earbuds30. In this particular example, headphones30A,30B are configured to sit within slots500, and are detectable by the Hall effect sensors310while in slots500. In this example, the case55includes a base510and a top520, which are illustrated in a closed position. It is understood that the top520can pivot, rotate, slide, etc., relative to the base510. In certain cases, while seated in the slots500, a portion of the ear cuff30extends between the base510and the top520, such that the base510and top520collectively define the slots500that house the ear cuffs30.FIG.6illustrates a close-up cutaway perspective view of a Hall effect sensor310in a headphone30(e.g., ear cuff), proximate to circuit board210(e.g., printed circuit board). In this view, the acoustic module35is illustrated without the transducer, and the battery barrel80is shown without internal electronics. In various implementations, the Hall effect sensor310is positioned to detect the presence (i.e., proximity) of one or more magnets in another headphone30, and/or magnets in a case55. Additionally, the Hall effect sensor310can be positioned to detect the proximity to a transducer in another headphone30.

In certain additional implementations (depicted in phantom as optional), a Hall effect sensor410can be positioned between the slots500and may be configured to detect the presence of both headphones30in slots500. For example, a Hall effect sensor410can be positioned between the headphones30to be sensitive to one or both headphones30being present in the slots500in the case55. In particular examples, the Hall effect sensor410positioned between the slots500(illustrated in phantom) can be the sole Hall effect sensor for detecting the presence of both headphones30in slots500.

In some cases, a given Hall effect sensor410is positioned to be sensitive to the presence and orientation of a headphone30, for example, such that the Hall effect sensor410will not indicate the headphone30is docked in the slot500unless its orientation aligns with the slot500. For example, the slot(s)500can be shaped to complement the shape of the headphone30, such that the headphone30can have only one desired orientation in the slot500. In certain cases, where headphones30are left-specific and right-specific earbuds, a given slot500will only accommodate one type of the earbuds (e.g., left or right). In such cases, the Hall effect sensor410is positioned in the case55to only detect the presence of a given headphone30when that headphone30is docked in the corresponding slot500in the desired orientation. The desired orientation can be based on a physical contact location for charging the headphone30, proximity to an inductive or capacitive charging mechanism, and/or a design feature to minimize the space required to store the headphone(s)30in the case55. In particular implementations, the Hall effect sensors410is located adjacent to a portion of the slot500that is sized to house a portion of the headphone30from which the magnetic flux will be strongest, e.g., proximate the battery barrel200and/or proximate the acoustic module35housing the transducer(s)350.

Returning toFIG.5, in this example, a pair of Hall effect sensors410are located adjacent to the headphones30, such that when seated in slots500, the headphones30are interposed between the two Hall effect sensors410. As described according to various implementations, the Hall effect sensors410can be sensitive to a magnetic field generated by the headphones30, e.g., to determine that the headphones30are docked in the slots500, and in some cases, oriented as desired in the slots500. In other terms, the Hall effect sensor410determines that the headphone30is fully seated in a slot500. In certain cases, the Hall effect sensor410is sensitive to the magnetic flux generated by the transducer(s)350in the headphone30to detect proximity to the headphone30. For example, the Hall effect sensor410can be positioned in the case55such that when fully seated, the acoustic module housing the transducer350is adjacent to the Hall effect sensor410. In this case, the Hall effect sensor410is sized and positioned to detect the magnetic flux from the transducer350when the headphone30is fully seated in the slot500. It is understood that in certain cases, the Hall effect sensor410can be configured to detect the magnetic flux from one or more components in the headphone30, e.g., the transducer350, the power source360(e.g., battery) and/or an onboard magnet230.

In certain cases, the Hall effect sensor(s)410are configured to detect the magnetic field from each headphone30regardless of a power state of the headphone30. That is, the Hall effect sensor410for each slot500is positioned to detect the presence of the headphone30via its magnetic flux even if the power source360(e.g., battery) at the headphone30is depleted beyond a threshold sufficient to provide a voltage-based measurement. In other terms, the Hall effect sensor410for each slot is positioned to detect a magnetic flux from the headphone30in cases where the battery is at or below several percent charged. In some such cases, the Hall effect sensor410can detect the presence of the headphone30via the magnetic flux of the transducer350.

In some implementations, the case55is configured to initiate a charging protocol for charging headphone(s)30in response to the Hall effect sensor410detecting proximity to the headphones(s)30, e.g., indicating that the headphone30is fully seated in the slot500in case55. In particular cases, the controller420at case55(FIG.4) is configured to initiate the charging protocol in response to receiving a signal from one, or both Hall effect sensor(s)410indicating the presence of the headphones30in the slots500in case55. In some cases, as noted herein, the Hall effect sensor(s)410are positioned to be sensitive to the headphones30being fully seated in slots500. For example, the Hall effect sensor410for a given headphone30will not detect the presence of the headphone30unless it is fully seated in the corresponding slot500. In such a case, the controller420will only take the prescribed action in response to receiving an indicator from the Hall effect sensor410that both headphones30are docked in the slots500.

In particular implementations, as depicted in phantom as optional implementations inFIGS.3and4, one or more headphones30can include a Hall effect sensor310, and the case55can include one or more magnets230. In one example, the additional Hall effect sensor310in a headphone30can be configured to: a) indicate proximity to the case55based on a detected magnetic field from the magnet230on the case55, or b) indicate proximity to the other headphone30in the pair based on detecting the magnetic field generated by that other headphone30.

In some such cases, the additional Hall effect sensor310in a headphone30can be used to verify the proximity of the headphone30to the slot500in case55, e.g., as a secondary mechanism for detecting docking in the case55and/or a verification mechanism for detecting docking in the case55. In such implementations, the controllers320in one or both headphone(s)30can be configured to communicate with the controller420in the case55to verify the detected proximity/docking of the headphone30in case55. In other cases, the Hall effect sensor310in the headphone30can be used independently to detect proximity between the headphone30and the case55, e.g., to take a prescribed action such as initiating charging of the headphone(s)30, entering a sleep and/or shutdown mode, pausing or stopping audio playback, etc.

In additional implementations, where the Hall effect sensor310in one or both headphones30is configured to detect the proximity to the other headphone30in the pair via an onboard Hall effect sensor310, that Hall effect sensor310can be configured to detect the presence of a battery at the other headphone30, the transducer350at the other headphone30and/or magnet(s)230at the other headphone30. In such cases, the controller320at one or both headphones30is configured to take a prescribed action in response to detecting the proximity between headphones30, e.g., that headphones30are contacting one another or within close proximity (e.g., several centimeters) of each other. In certain implementations, detecting close proximity between headphones30causes the controller(s)320to: trigger a sleep mode for the headphones30, shutdown the headphones30and/or pause or stop audio playback at the headphones30.

Hall Effect Sensor in Both Ear Cuffs

As noted herein, in certain implementations both headphones30in a set include a Hall effect sensor310. Using the example depiction inFIGS.3and4, each headphone30in a set has a Hall effect sensor310. In such cases, the Hall effect sensor310in each headphone30can be configured to indicate proximity to a magnet230in the case55for detecting docking in the case55, e.g., in slots500. In such cases, the Hall effect sensor310in the headphones30detects docking (or, seating) in the slots500, via proximity to the magnet(s)230. Similarly to the Hall effect sensor(s)310depicted inFIGS.5and6,FIG.7illustrates magnet(s)230in a case155positioned to be detectable by the Hall effect sensor(s)310in headphones30when the headphones30are fully seated in the case155. In certain cases, when fully seated, the headphones30are interposed between two magnets230in the case155. In additional, or alternative cases (as shown in phantom), a magnet230is positioned between the headphones30when docked in the slots500in the case155. In some such cases, the case155can also include a Hall effect sensor310for detecting a magnetic field generated by the headphones30, e.g., by magnets on the earbud, a transducer at the earbud, and/or a battery at the earbud. In certain of these implementations, the Hall effect sensor310in the case155is sensitive to the magnetic field generated by the transducer350onboard the headphones30, to detect proximity of the headphones30.

In certain implementations, e.g., where earbuds each include an open-ear earpiece such as in the ear cuffs30, each earpiece can include a coupler for coupling with a corresponding coupler on the other earpiece while not in use on a user’s ears.

For example, as depicted in the single earpiece inFIG.3and in the set of earpieces inFIG.8, a first earpiece (e.g., ear cuff)30A includes a first coupler that includes a first magnet230(or set of magnets) and a second earpiece (e.g., ear cuff)30B includes a second coupler that includes a second magnet230(or set of magnets, illustrated in phantom as internal to the battery barrel200). In these implementations, the couplers (i.e., magnets) are configured to couple the first earpiece30A and the second earpiece30B while not in the user’s ears. In the example depiction ofFIG.9, two earpieces (e.g., ear cuff-type earbuds)30are depicted side-by-side. In these cases, the magnets230in the battery barrel200align the earpieces30, e.g., in a common orientation. The magnets230in the battery barrel200of each earpiece30can have an opposite polarity, for example, to align sections of the earpiece30with the same sections of the other earbud in the pair (e.g., barrel200to barrel200, acoustic module35to acoustic module35). As described herein, the magnets230are detectable by a Hall effect sensor (e.g., Hall effect sensor410) in a case55for the earpieces30, e.g., to take a prescribed action in response to detecting docking of the earpieces30in the case55.

FIG.9illustrates an additional implementation of an audio device600in which a pair of earpieces610A and610B include corresponding couplers620A,620B for coupling the earpieces610A,610B when not in use in the user’s ear. For example, the couplers620A,620B can include complementary connectors (e.g., contours)630for interlocking the two earpieces610when not in the user’s ears. In certain cases, each complementary connector630at least partially surrounds a space640that receives a portion of the complementary connector630in the other earpiece610. In addition to connector630, each earpiece610A can include a magnet for coupling with the other earpiece610B, and in some cases, enabling detection by a Hall effect sensor in a case for the earpieces. In some examples, the earpieces610A,610B are untethered such that the first coupler620A and the second coupler620B provide approximately all of the retaining force in coupling the earpieces610A,610B.

FIG.10shows an additional implementation of an audio device700in which a pair of earpieces710A and710B include corresponding couplers720A,720B for coupling the earpieces710A,710B when not in use in the user’s ear. For example, the couplers720A,720B can include complementary connectors (e.g., contours)730for interlocking the two earpieces710when not in the user’s ears. In certain cases, each complementary connector730is defined by an arm740and acoustic module750coupled with the arm740, e.g., where the acoustic module750is angled relative to the arm740. In particular implementations, the earpieces710are selectively couplable to one or more removable tether(s)760, which can be connected to one another via a common connector770(e.g., including a battery and/or communication module). In any case, the couplers720allow the earpieces710to be coupled while not in use, either with or without the common connector770.

In certain cases, the complementary connector(s) (e.g., complementary connectors630,730) include a snap-fit connector, an interlocking connector, a force-fit connector, or one or more magnets. In certain cases, a magnet is located on one or both earpieces610,710, and is configured to connect the earpieces when brought within close proximity of one another. In other cases, a snap-fit, interlocking or force-fit (e.g., pressure fit) connector can be used to press and connect earpieces610,710. Connectors can retain the earpieces as a coupled set until sufficient force is applied to separate the earpieces.

As described with respect toFIG.8, couplers (e.g., magnets230) can retain the corresponding earpieces30together independently of a charging case or a storage case. Similarly, as shown inFIGS.9and10, the couplers620,720retain the corresponding earpieces610,710together independently of a charging case or a storage case. That is, magnets230and/or couplers620,720can enable the earpieces30,610, and710to remain coupled together without the need for a charging and/or storage case. In carious implementations, the couplers (e.g., magnets230, couplers620,720) are integral with the earpieces. In these cases, the earpieces can couple with one another, making it easier to store and/or transport the earpieces without loss or misplacement.

In certain cases, one or more earpieces is configured to connect with a removable tether, such as tether760inFIG.10. In some cases, the tether760includes a connector for connecting to an external power source and/or an external data source. For example, a connector can include a power connector and/or a USB connector. In various implementations, the power connector enables charging of the earpieces710independently of a charging case. That is, the earpieces710can be charged via the power connector in the tether760without requiring docking in a case such as case55(FIGS.5-7). In certain implementations, the tether760connects to both earpieces710. In other implementations, the tether760connects to one of the earpieces710, which can in turn be connected to the other earpiece710by a separate connector. In the depiction inFIG.10, when the removable tether760is connected to each of the earpieces710and the couplers720are connected, the audio device700forms an annular, wearable device such as an annular piece of jewelry or a keychain. In some cases, the removable tether760includes a backup batter and a connector for charging the onboard battery at the earpieces710and/or directly powering the earpieces710.

FIG.11shows an implementation of a removable tether800that includes a wearable connector (e.g., bracelet and/or necklace)810and a coupler820for connecting with earpieces. In some cases, the coupler820includes a metal configured to attract a magnet, such as the magnet(s)230in earpieces30and/or other earpieces described herein. In certain cases, the tether800can include a connector (e.g., cable) for connecting to an external power source (e.g., for charging) and/or an external data source (e.g., for software updating, data transmission, etc.).

FIGS.12and13illustrate another implementation of an audio device900that includes earpieces910that are removable from a common carrier920(FIG.12) and can be stored and/or charged in a case55(FIG.13). In certain of these cases, the earpieces910include corresponding couplers930for connecting with couplers940on the common carrier920. In certain cases, the couplers930on the earpieces910are also complementary to enable the earpieces910to be coupled to one another. In particular examples, the common carrier920can form an annular, wearable device such as a piece of jewelry or a keychain for being carried by a user. The common carrier920can also include a battery and/or connector to an external power and/or data source, e.g., a USB connector.

In certain additional cases, a charging dish is provided for charging an onboard battery in one of the open-ear earpieces (e.g.,30) when connected. That is, when the open-ear earpieces are connected with one another, the batteries in those earpieces can be charged wirelessly on a charging dish, e.g., via inductive charging.

In some implementations, a method of detecting docking in and/or removal of earbuds from an earbud case is based on a signal received from a Hall effect sensor in the case or in the earbuds. In certain cases, the method includes detecting the docking and/or removal of the earbuds based on a signal from a Hall effect sensor in the case, or based on a signal from a Hall effect sensor in the earbud(s). In particular implementations, the method also includes initiating charging of the set of earbuds in response to detecting docking of the set of earbuds in the earbud case.

Additional, or alternative, approaches for detecting presence of earbuds or ear cuffs in a case are described in U.S. Pat. Application No. 16/905,666 (filed on Jun. 18, 2020), which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

In any case, the earbuds and cases shown and described according to various implementations can enable effective detection of docking events, e.g., to facilitate charging and/or power-saving actions. Further, the earbuds shown and described herein can enable for direct coupling that mitigates loss and/or misplacement. Even further, the carriers and tethers shown and described according to various implementations enable users to store and/or charge earbuds efficiently and mitigate loss and/or misplacement. Additional aspects of the earbuds, carriers and tethers function as a stylish mechanism to carry audio devices.

In various implementations, components described as being “coupled” to one another can be joined along one or more interfaces. In some implementations, these interfaces can include junctions between distinct components, and in other cases, these interfaces can include a solidly and/or integrally formed interconnection. That is, in some cases, components that are “coupled” to one another can be simultaneously formed to define a single continuous member. However, in other implementations, these coupled components can be formed as separate members and be subsequently joined through known processes (e.g., soldering, fastening, ultrasonic welding, bonding). In various implementations, electronic components described as being “coupled” can be linked via conventional hard-wired and/or wireless means such that these electronic components can communicate data with one another. Additionally, sub-components within a given component can be considered to be linked via conventional pathways, which may not necessarily be illustrated.

Other embodiments not specifically described herein are also within the scope of the following claims. Elements of different implementations described herein may be combined to form other embodiments not specifically set forth above. Elements may be left out of the structures described herein without adversely affecting their operation. Furthermore, various separate elements may be combined into one or more individual elements to perform the functions described herein.