Patent Description:
This disclosure relates generally to personal audio devices such as earbuds and headphones and in particular to identification of removable cushioning members such as ear tips and cushions by a personal audio device that can support adaptive behavior based on the presence of a particular cushioning member.

A "personal audio device" refers to a device that produces sound to be heard by an individual user while limiting the audibility of that sound in an environment around the user. Examples of personal audio devices include headphones and earphones. Headphones generally include one or two audio-producing earpieces (also referred to as "ear cups") that are designed to be worn over the ear or on the ear. The ear cups are typically connected to a headband, which can help to hold the ear cups in place and can also provide an electrical connection between the ear cups. The ear cups are designed to be worn such that an audio-generating speaker contained in each ear cup directs sound toward an ear of the wearer. A cushion made of compliant material is typically provided around a peripheral portion of the ear cup in order to provide spacing between the speaker and the user's ear and to provide user comfort while wearing the headphones. The cushion may also provide sound insulation, preventing sound generated by the ear cups from leaking into the environment and/or preventing external sound from reaching the user's ears. Earphones generally include one or two audio-producing earpieces (also referred to as "earbuds") that are designed to be inserted into the user's ears (either into the ear canal or resting against the concha cavum) such that an audio-generating speaker contained in the earpiece (or earbud) is oriented toward the ear canal. An ear tip (also sometimes referred to herein as a "tip") made of soft material may be provided to cover at least the portion of the earbud that rests against the user's skin. Similarly to cushions of ear cups, an ear tip of an earbud may increase user comfort and provide at least some degree of sound insulation.

<CIT> is directed to an audio headset capable of identifying the type of ear cushion coupled to the headphones. Electric identification contacts are included in the ear cushion which facilitate the identification when attached to headphones.

<CIT> describes enhanced safety headphones for listening to audio and music, wherein the wearer decides the degree of sound isolation desired.

<CIT> is directed to a headphone device with detachable ear cushions. A microcomputer detects a structure pattern and obtains an electrical signal which can be used to obtain the ID of the ear cushion.

<CIT> is directed to a percutaneous bone conduction hearing device which uses a multipole magnetic coupling system to determine which side of the head the device is placed on.

Disclosed herein are various embodiments related to personal audio devices (e.g., headphones, earphones) having an earpiece (e.g., an ear cup or earbud) with a removable cushioning member (e.g., headphone cushions or earphone tips). The cushioning member can include an identification tag that encodes identification data indicative of one or more properties or characteristics of the cushioning member (e.g., size, material, color, manufacturer, etc.). When the cushioning member is attached to the earpiece, the earpiece reads the identification data from the identification tag. The earpiece includes a tag sensor that generates a signal responsive to an electrical, magnetic, electromagnetic, optical, geometrical, or mechanical characteristic of the identification tag and an identification (ID) logic circuit that decodes the signal from the tag sensor to extract the identification data. In some embodiments, based on the identification data, a controller of the personal audio device can modify the behavior of the earpiece. In some embodiments, the earpiece can communicate the identification data to a host device with which the personal audio device is communicably coupled (e.g., a phone, computer, media player, gaming device, or other device that can provide audio output to the personal audio device), and the host device can modify its behavior and/or a behavior of the earpiece based on the identification data.

According to the claimed invention, a cushioning member for an earpiece of a personal audio device includes a body having a first surface to be placed in contact with a user's ear area and a second surface, at least the first surface being made of a compliant material; an attachment structure disposed on the second surface and configured to attach the cushioning member to an earpiece of a personal audio device; and may include an identification tag disposed at or near the second surface such that when the cushioning member is attached to the earpiece, the identification tag is in proximity to a tag sensor disposed in the earpiece. The identification tag can encode identification data for the cushioning member. The body can be shaped, e.g., as an ear cushion for a headphone or as an ear tip for an earphone.

Identification tags can be implemented using a number of different structures and techniques. In some embodiments the identification tag can include any or all of: an arrangement of one or more magnets that encodes the identification data; a magnetic shunt having a shape that encodes the identification data. In unclaimed examples, the identification tag can include any or all of an inductive coil tuned to a resonant frequency, wherein the resonant frequency maps to the identification data; a surface optically encoded with the identification data; a passive near-field communication (NFC) or radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag encoded with the identification data; a pattern of metal and/or non-metal regions where presence or absence of metal in each region encodes the identification data; a feature affecting an acoustic property of the cushioning member; one or more electrical contacts coupled to an identification circuit element (e.g., a resistor or a coupling or absence of coupling to ground). In some embodiments, an identification tag is disposed within or on the attachment structure of the cushioning member.

According to the claimed invention, an earpiece for a personal audio device includes: a housing having a proximal surface; a speaker disposed in the housing; an attachment structure disposed on the proximal surface and configured to attach to a cushioning member; a tag sensor disposed at or near the proximal surface and configured to generate a signal responsive to an identification tag of the cushioning member; identification logic coupled to the tag sensor and configured to determine identification data for the cushioning member based on the signal from the tag sensor; and a controller coupled to the identification logic which may be configured to modify a device behavior of the earpiece in response to the identification data. In some embodiments, the earpiece can also include a communication interface configured to communicate the identification data to a host device. The housing can be shaped, e.g., as an ear cup or earbud or the like. In some embodiments, the tag sensor can be disposed within or on the attachment structure.

A tag sensor can be implemented using a number of different sensors and technique. For instance, in some embodiments, a tag sensor can include a magnetic sensor configured to determine a magnetic orientation for each of one or more magnets of the identification tag. In some embodiments, the attachment structure can include one or more magnets and the tag sensor can include a magnetic sensor (e.g., a Hall sensor) configured to determine a geometric characteristic of a shunt element attached to the one or more magnets, where the geometric characteristic of the shunt element can encode identification information and thus serve as an identification tag.

According to the claimed invention, a cushioning member for an earpiece of a personal audio device comprises: a body having a first surface to be placed in contact with a user's ear area and a second surface, at least the first surface being made of a compliant material; and a first magnetic attachment structure disposed on the second surface and configured to attach the cushioning member to an earpiece of a personal audio device. According to the claimed invention, a geometric property (e.g., shape and/or size) of the first magnetic attachment structure encodes identification data for the cushioning member. For example, the first magnetic attachment structure can include a metallic plate that shunts magnetic fields, and the geometric property includes a size of the first magnetic attachment structure and/or a presence or absence of a gap or split in the first magnetic attachment structure. In some embodiments, multiple magnetic attachment structures, including the first magnetic attachment structure, can be disposed on the second surface of the cushioning member, and a respective geometric structure of each of the plurality of magnetic attachment structures can encode at least one bit of identification data. The magnetic attachment structures can be positioned as desired. For example, the body of the cushioning member can have corner regions, with one of the magnetic attachment structures positioned in each of the corner regions.

According to some embodiments, an earpiece for a personal audio device can comprise: a housing having a proximal surface; a speaker disposed in the housing; a first magnetic attachment structure disposed on the proximal surface and configured to attach to a cushioning member; a first tag sensor disposed at or near the proximal surface and configured to generate a signal responsive to a magnetic flux affected by attachment of the cushioning member; identification logic coupled to the first tag sensor and configured to determine identification data for the cushioning member based at least in part on the signal from the first tag sensor; and a controller coupled to the identification logic and configured to receive the identification data from the identification logic. In some embodiments, the first magnetic attachment structure can include an array of magnets configured to form a magnetic flux loop when a magnetic shunt element of the cushioning member is in proximity to the array of magnets. The array of magnets can be configured such that the magnetic flux loop is directed either through or away from the first tag sensor, depending on a geometric property of the magnetic shunt element. For instance, the first tag sensor can include a Hall effect sensor placed adjacent to the array of magnets and/or a Hall effect sensor placed between two magnets in the array of magnets. In some embodiments, multiple magnetic attachment structures, including the first magnetic attachment structure, can be disposed on the proximal surface and each of the magnetic attachment structures can have an associated tag sensor; each of the tag sensors can provide at least one bit of identification data to the identification logic.

According to some embodiments, an earpiece system for a personal audio device can comprise a cushioning member and an earpiece. The cushioning member has: a body having a first surface to be placed in contact with a user's ear area and a second surface, at least the first surface being made of a compliant material; and a first cushion-side magnetic attachment structure disposed on the second surface and configured to attach the cushioning member to an earpiece of a personal audio device, where a geometric property (e.g., size and/or shape) of the first cushion-side magnetic attachment structure encodes identification data for the cushioning member. The earpiece has: a housing having a proximal surface; a speaker disposed in the housing; a first earpiece-side magnetic attachment structure disposed on the proximal surface and configured to attach to the first cushion-side magnetic attachment structure; a first tag sensor disposed at or near the proximal surface and configured to generate a signal responsive to a magnetic flux affected by attachment of the cushioning member; identification logic coupled to the first tag sensor and configured to determine identification data for the cushioning member based at least in part on the signal from the first tag sensor; and a controller coupled to the identification logic and configured to receive the identification data from the identification logic. In some embodiments, the first cushion-side magnetic attachment structure comprises a metallic plate that shunts magnetic fields. In some embodiments, the geometric property includes a size of the first cushion-side magnetic attachment structure and/or a presence or absence of a gap or split in the first cushion-side magnetic attachment structure. In some embodiments, the first earpiece-side magnetic attachment structure can include an array of magnets configured to form a magnetic flux loop when the first cushion-side magnetic attachment structure of the cushioning member is in proximity to the array of magnets, and the first tag sensor can include a Hall effect sensor placed adjacent to one or more of the magnets in the array of magnets. The geometric property of the cushion-side magnetic attachment structure can shape the magnetic flux loop to shunt the magnetic flux either toward or away from the tag sensor. In some embodiments, multiple cushion-side magnetic attachment structures, including the first cushion-side magnetic attachment structure, can disposed on the second surface of the cushioning member, and a respective geometric structure of each of the plurality of cushion-side magnetic attachment structures can encode at least one bit of identification data; likewise, multiple earpiece-side magnetic attachment structures, including the first earpiece-side magnetic attachment structure, can be disposed on the proximal surface, and each of the plurality of earpiece-side magnetic attachment structures can have an associated tag sensor, where each tag sensor can provide at least one bit of identification data to the identification logic.

Given a particular encoding structure, various types of identification data can be encoded in an identification tag in a cushioning member and read by a tag sensor and identification logic in an earpiece. For instance, identification data can indicate one or more of: a size of the cushioning member; a color of the cushioning member; a device class of the cushioning member; a manufacturer of the cushioning member; a model identifier of the cushioning member; a unique identifier of the cushioning member; and/or an active capability supported by the cushioning member. In some embodiments, the identification data can be a parameter value that can be mapped to indicia of one or more attributes of the cushioning member (e.g., size, color, device class, manufacturer, model, unique identifier, etc.).

According to some unclaimed examples, a method of identifying a cushioning member for a personal audio device can include detecting, by an earpiece of a personal audio device, presence of a cushioning member; operating, by the earpiece of the personal audio device, reader circuitry to read identification data from an identification tag located on the cushioning member; and modifying a device behavior based at least in part on the identification data. In some embodiments, the earpiece of the personal device can modify its own behavior in response to the identification data. Additionally or instead, the earpiece of the personal device can transmit the identification data to a host device with which the personal audio device interoperates, and the host device can modify its own behavior and/or the behavior of the personal audio device in response to the identification data.

Various types of behavior modification can be implemented in response to identification data. For example, modifying the device behavior can include modifying an audio characteristic including any or all of: modifying an equalizer setting for the personal audio device; modifying an active noise cancellation profile of the personal audio device; applying a sound filtering algorithm for the personal audio device; modifying a volume limit for the personal audio device; and/or applying a saved user preference associated with the identification data. In some unclaimed examples where the personal audio device interoperates with a host device, the host device can modify an image of the personal audio device in a graphical user interface of the host device based at least in part on the identification data. In some unclaimed examples where the identification data includes data indicating whether the cushioning member supports an advanced capability, modifying the device behavior includes enabling or disabling the advanced capability based on the identification data. In some embodiments where the identification data includes data indicating a size of the cushioning member, modifying the device behavior includes using the size of the cushioning member in a cushioning-member fitting process.

The following detailed description, together with the accompanying drawings, will provide a better understanding of the nature and advantages of the claimed invention.

Disclosed herein are various embodiments related to personal audio devices (e.g., headphones, earphones) having an earpiece (e.g., an ear cup or earbud) with a removable cushioning member (e.g., headphone cushions or earphone tips). The cushioning member can include an identification tag that encodes identification data indicative of one or more properties or characteristics of the cushioning member (e.g., size, material, color, manufacturer, etc.). When the cushioning member is attached to the earpiece, the earpiece can read the identification data from the identification tag. For example, the earpiece can include a tag sensor that generates a signal responsive to an electrical, magnetic, electromagnetic, optical, geometrical, or mechanical characteristic of the identification tag and an identification (ID) logic circuit that decodes the signal from the tag sensor to extract the identification data. In some embodiments, based on the identification data, a controller of the personal audio device can modify the behavior of the earpiece. In some embodiments, the earpiece can communicate the identification data to a host device with which the personal audio device is communicably coupled (e.g., a phone, computer, media player, gaming device, or other device that can provide audio output to the personal audio device), and the host device can modify its behavior and/or a behavior of the earpiece based on the identification data.

In various embodiments, the identification tag in a cushioning member can be a "passive" tag that does not require a power source in order to be read by an earpiece. For example, the identification tag can be implemented using a piece of magnetic material or a magnetic shunt whose presence and/or geometry can be detected using a magnetic sensor (e.g., Hall effect sensor) located in the earpiece.

In various embodiments, the identification data obtained from an identification tag can include or represent any information that distinguishes one cushioning member from another. For example, the identification data can represent any or all of: a manufacturer identifier; a model identifier; a size identifier; a color identifier; a device-class identifier (e.g., indicating presence or absence of various capabilities or characteristics); a unique serial number; and/or other information as desired. In some embodiments, an identification tag can encode a numerical value that can be mapped by ID logic in the earpiece (or in a connected host device) to a particular set of characteristics of the cushioning member.

In various embodiments, the earpiece and/or a host device can change different aspects of their behavior based on the identification data. For example, an equalizer setting can be selected or modified based on the identification data. Hearing-protection settings can be modified, including, e.g., limiting the speaker volume of the earpiece, modifying an active noise cancellation profile for the earpiece, and so on. User interface behavior can also be modified. For instance, if a host device has a display that shows an image of the personal audio device, the displayed image can be modified to match the currently-attached cushioning member.

In various embodiments, the earpiece and/or a host device can use the identification data in connection with monitoring the condition of the cushioning member. For example, a host device can track the age or total lifetime usage of a particular cushioning member and suggest replacement at an appropriate interval.

In various examples, the earpiece and/or a host device can use the identification data to assist with sizing of a cushioning member. For example, ear tips, which fit into a user's ear, may come in several sizes to accommodate variations in the size of human ears. During fitting of ear tips, an audio leakage test can be performed to assess the fit of a particular tip. Based on the results of the leakage test and identification data indicating a size of the tested tip, the earpiece (or a host device) can suggest a specific tip size to try next.

In various examples, the earpiece and/or a host device can use the identification data to activate or deactivate advanced capabilities that may be supported by certain cushioning members. For example, it is contemplated that an advanced cushion or ear tip (or other cushioning member) may include one or more biometric monitoring devices such as a pulse sensor, temperature sensor, or moisture (e.g., perspiration) sensor that can provide sensor data to the earpiece, which in turn can communicate the sensor data to a host device or use the data internally (e.g., to generate an audible indication related to the sensor data). Based on whether the identification data indicates that the cushioning member supports a particular monitoring capability, the earpiece can automatically enable or disable its receiver(s) for the monitoring data.

<FIG> shows a first example of a personal audio device according to some embodiments, in the form of headphones <NUM>. Headphones <NUM> include a pair of earpieces <NUM> and a band <NUM> that mechanically connects earpieces <NUM>. In some embodiments, band <NUM> may also provide electrical connections between earpieces <NUM>. Earpieces <NUM> (also referred to as ear cups) can be made of rigid materials such as rigid plastic and/or metal. Earpieces <NUM> can be designed and shaped to fit on top of or around the pinnae of the user's ears, covering the concha cavum. Earpieces <NUM> can incorporate one or more speakers to produce sound directed toward the user's ears, control electronics to operate the speakers, a signal interface to receive audio signals in digital or analog format, one or more user input controls (e.g., one or more touch sensitive areas on a surface of one or both of earpieces <NUM>), and other components that can be of generally conventional design.

To provide user comfort, cushions <NUM> can be detachably attached to earpieces <NUM>. For example, cushions <NUM> can have one or more protruding attachment structures (e.g., on the side facing earpieces <NUM>) that snap into complementary slots, holes, clips, or other attachment structures in earpieces <NUM>, or earpieces <NUM> can have one or more protruding attachment structures that snap into complementary slots, holes, or other attachment structures in cushions <NUM>. In some embodiments, magnetic attachment structures can be provided in addition to or instead of mechanical attachment structures. For example, earpieces <NUM> can have magnets disposed at various locations on an interface surface that faces cushions <NUM>. Such magnets can be disposed, e.g., near the periphery of earpieces <NUM>. Cushions <NUM> can include metal shunts, magnets, or the like at corresponding locations on the interface surface; any structure that is attracted to the magnets in earpieces <NUM> can be used. These examples are illustrative, and a particular attachment structure or combination of attachment structures is not critical to understanding the present disclosure.

Cushions <NUM> can be formed with a core of foam or other compressible material surrounded by a compliant structural layer that helps to define a shape of a periphery of cushions <NUM> without imparting rigidity. One or more additional textile layers can be applied if desired, e.g., for user comfort, durability, and/or esthetic appearance. In some embodiments, cushions <NUM> can incorporate rigid structural elements in areas that do not contact the user's skin during use. For example, cushions <NUM> can include a rigid frame that can be made of plastic or the like, and a rigid frame can facilitate attachment and replacement of cushions <NUM>. For example, a frame can incorporate mechanical and/or magnetic attachment structures.

For purposes of the present disclosure, it is assumed that multiple types of cushions <NUM> that are compatible with the same headphones <NUM> exist. In various embodiments, different types of cushions <NUM> may be distinct from each other in terms of size, color, materials, audio performance (e.g., how effectively a particular cushion blocks ambient sound), and/or other characteristics. It is also assumed that different types of cushions <NUM> are user-interchangeable; that is, a user may attach cushions <NUM> of different types to the same earpieces <NUM> at different times. To facilitate identification of which cushions <NUM> are currently attached to earpieces <NUM>, each cushion <NUM> can include an identification tag <NUM> that encodes identification data indicating the type of cushion. Identification tag <NUM> can be read by earpiece <NUM>, allowing the behavior of headphones <NUM> to automatically adapt based on the particular type of cushion <NUM> that is attached at any given time. Specific examples are described below.

In some embodiments, headphones <NUM> can operate as an accessory to a host device <NUM>. Host device <NUM> can be, for example, a smart phone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a wearable device (e.g., a smart watch), a game console or portable gaming device, or any other electronic device that provides audio output. Headphones <NUM> can connect to host device <NUM> via a wired or wireless communication channel that supports transfer of audio data (in digital and/or analog formats) from the host device to the personal audio device. In some embodiments, the communication channel can be bidirectional, allowing headphones <NUM> to communicate information to host device <NUM>. For example, headphones <NUM> can communicate cushion identification data read from identification tag <NUM> to host device <NUM>, and host device <NUM> can modify its behavior based on the cushion identification data received from headphones <NUM>. Specific examples are described below. It should be understood that information other than audio signals and cushion identification data can also be communicated between headphones <NUM> and host device <NUM>. For example, headphones <NUM> can provide a user input interface that includes, e.g., tactile controls (buttons, touch-sensitive surfaces, or the like) and/or a microphone for voice input, and headphones <NUM> can communicate user input to host device <NUM>. Such interaction is not relevant to understanding the present disclosure.

<FIG> shows a second example of a personal audio device according to some embodiments, in the form of earphones <NUM>. Earphones <NUM> include a pair of earpieces <NUM>. Earpieces <NUM> (also referred to as earbuds) can be made of a rigid material such as plastic and/or metal and can incorporate one or more speakers to produce sound, control electronics to operate the speakers, one or more user input controls (e.g., one or more touch sensitive areas on a surface of one or both of earpieces <NUM>), and so on. In this example, earpieces <NUM> each have an end portion <NUM> designed to rest within an outer portion of a user's ear canal, and in some embodiments, the speaker(s) can be located in or adjacent to end portion <NUM>.

To provide user comfort, ear tips (also referred to herein as "tips") <NUM> can be detachably attached to end portion <NUM>. For example, tips <NUM> can include a base portion that can slide over and tightly fit to end portion <NUM>. As with earcups <NUM> and cushions <NUM> of <FIG>, a variety of mechanical and/or magnetic attachment structures may be used, and a particular attachment mechanism is not critical to understanding the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, ear tips <NUM> can be formed from silicone rubber or other compressible elastic material. The body of ear tips <NUM> can be shaped according to the general dimensions of an ear canal or other portion of an ear, and the body can include an attachment portion that is compatible with the form factor of end portion <NUM> so that ear tips <NUM> can be attached to (and removed from) earbuds <NUM> at end portion <NUM>. The body of ear tips <NUM> can also include a compliant outer lobe or cup that extends outward from the attachment portion, providing a pliable surface to contact the user's ear canal.

For purposes of the present disclosure, it is assumed that multiple types of ear tips <NUM> that are compatible with the same earpieces <NUM> exist. In various embodiments, different types of ear tips <NUM> may be distinct from each other in terms of size, color, materials, audio performance (e.g., how effectively a particular ear tip blocks external sound), and/or other characteristics. It is also assumed that different types of ear tips <NUM> are user-interchangeable; that is, a user may attach ear tips <NUM> of different types to the same earpiece <NUM> at different times. To facilitate identification of which ear tips <NUM> are currently attached to earpieces <NUM>, each ear tip <NUM> can include an identification tag <NUM> that encodes information data indicating the type of ear tip. Identification tag <NUM> can be read by earpiece <NUM>, allowing the behavior of earphones <NUM> to automatically adapt based on the particular type of ear tip <NUM> that is attached at any given time. Specific examples are described below.

Similarly to headphones <NUM>, earbud set <NUM> can operate as an accessory to a host device <NUM>. Host device <NUM> can be, for example, a smart phone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a wearable device (e.g., a smart watch), a game console or portable gaming device, or any other electronic device that provides audio output. Earbuds <NUM> can connect to host device <NUM> via a wired or wireless communication channel that supports transfer of audio data (in digital and/or analog formats) from the host device to the personal audio device. In some embodiments, the communication channel can be bidirectional, allowing earbuds <NUM> to communicate information to host device <NUM>. For example, earbuds <NUM> can communicate tip identification data read from identification tag <NUM> to host device <NUM>, and host device <NUM> can modify its behavior based on the tip identification data received from earbuds <NUM>. Specific examples are described below. It should be understood that information other than audio signals and tip identification data can also be communicated between earbuds <NUM> and host device <NUM>. For example, earbuds <NUM> can provide a user input interface that includes, e.g., tactile controls (buttons, touch-sensitive surfaces, or the like) and/or a microphone for voice input, and earbuds <NUM> can communicate user input to host device <NUM>. Such interaction is not relevant to understanding the present disclosure.

It is to be understood that headphones <NUM> and earbud set <NUM> are illustrative of personal audio devices having earpieces and cushioning member suitable for use in embodiments of the claimed invention. Identification tags as described herein can be incorporated into any cushion, ear tip, or other replaceable user-contacting component (referred to as a "cushioning member") of a personal audio device and can be read by any compatible earpiece to which the cushioning member is attached. Earpieces and compatible cushioning members can have a variety of form factors and attachment structures.

In some embodiments, cushion-member identification data can be used locally within the personal audio device to modify one or more of its behaviors. Additionally or instead, the personal audio device can transmit cushion-member identification data to a host device with which the personal audio device is communicably coupled, and the host device can modify one or more of its behaviors in response to the cushion-member identification data.

According to various embodiments, identification of cushioning members can be based on an identification tag disposed in or on the cushioning member that can be read using reader circuitry (or a tag sensor) in the earpiece. Examples will now be described. In the following description, some examples are described with reference to ear cups and cushions (e.g., ear cups <NUM> and cushions <NUM> of headphones <NUM> of <FIG>), and some examples are described with reference to earbuds and ear tips (e.g., earbuds <NUM> and ear tips <NUM> of <FIG>). It will be appreciated that examples described with reference to ear cups and cushions can be applied to earbuds and ear tips and vice versa.

<FIG> is a simplified block diagram of an earpiece system <NUM> according to the claimed invention. Earpiece system <NUM> includes an earpiece <NUM> and a removable cushioning member <NUM>. Earpiece <NUM> (which can be, e.g., ear cup <NUM> of <FIG> or earbud <NUM> of <FIG>) includes a controller <NUM>, a speaker <NUM>, a tag sensor <NUM>, and may include a communication interface <NUM>. Controller <NUM> can be implemented, e.g., using one or more microprocessors, microcontrollers, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other logic circuits of generally conventional design. In some embodiments, controller <NUM> can be housed entirely within earpiece <NUM> (e.g., within ear cup <NUM> of <FIG> or earbud <NUM> of <FIG>).

Removable cushioning member <NUM> (which can be, e.g., cushion <NUM> of <FIG> or ear tip <NUM> of <FIG>) can include an identification (ID) tag <NUM>. ID tag <NUM> can include any storage medium or structure capable of encoding cushion-member identification data in a physical form that can affect a signal generated by tag sensor <NUM> of earpiece <NUM>. ID tag <NUM> can be passive or active and can operate with or without an electrical connection. Example implementations of ID tag <NUM> and corresponding tag sensors <NUM> are described below.

Speaker <NUM> can be an audio speaker of generally conventional design located within earpiece <NUM> and can include, e.g., an amplifier and a transducer to convert electrical signals to motion of a vibrational element (e.g., a diaphragm). Tag sensor <NUM> can be disposed within earpiece <NUM> and configured to generate a signal responsive to identification data encoded in identification tag <NUM> of cushioning member <NUM>; examples are described below. Communication interface <NUM> can include hardware and/or firmware components to enable communication with a host device <NUM> (e.g., host device <NUM> of <FIG> or host device <NUM> of <FIG>). For example, communication interface <NUM> can implement standard wireless communication protocols such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or the like. In addition or instead, a wired communication interface supporting a standard or custom communication protocol or other communication interface can be supported.

Controller <NUM> can incorporate a number of logic modules implemented using any appropriate combination of hardware and/or software components. For example, audio input module <NUM> can receive audio data (in digital or analog format) from an audio source. The audio source can be, for example, an internet connection, a radio receiver, a microphone positioned to detect ambient sounds in the environment, an analog audio input jack, host device <NUM> communicating with earpiece <NUM> via communication interface <NUM>, or any other audio source. Signal processing module <NUM> can perform signal-processing operations on the audio data, including decoding, digital-to-analog conversion, equalization (e.g., selectively adjusting amplitudes associated with different frequency bands), volume control (e.g., adjusting analog signal amplitude), generating audio data associated with an active noise-cancellation operation, mixing of audio data from multiple audio sources (e.g., mixing noise-cancellation audio with audio input such as music or voice data), and/or any other type of audio signal processing that may be desired. Audio driver <NUM> can drive speaker <NUM> based on an audio signal output from signal processing module <NUM>. User input module <NUM> can support user interaction. For example, user input module <NUM> can be configured to receive and interpret voice commands from the user and/or to detect operation of a user control located on the personal audio device or elsewhere. Based on received user input, user input module <NUM> can provide instructions to other modules of controller <NUM>, e.g., to select an audio source, control volume, or adjust other settings, or send instructions or data to a host device via communication interface <NUM>. In some embodiments, controller <NUM> can also include a user output module <NUM> to provide information or prompts to the user, e.g., using audible, visual, or tactile indicators. Configuration module <NUM> can store configuration settings (e.g., one or more equalizer profiles, volume limits, noise-cancellation profiles, etc.). In some embodiments, some or all of the configuration settings can be associated with identification data for a particular type of cushioning member <NUM> or with characteristics of cushioning member <NUM> that can determined from the identification data. Accordingly, configuration module <NUM> can modify the behavior of signal processing module <NUM> and/or other components of controller <NUM> based on identification data obtained from ID tag <NUM> of cushioning member <NUM>. ID logic module <NUM> can obtain signals from tag sensor <NUM> responsive to ID tag <NUM> and can interpret the signals to "read" the identification data encoded in ID tag <NUM>. ID logic module <NUM> can provide the identification data read from ID tag <NUM> to configuration module <NUM>, to other modules or components of controller <NUM>, and/or to host device <NUM> via communication interface <NUM>.

It will be appreciated that earpiece system <NUM> is illustrative and that variations and modifications are possible. An earpiece system may include other components not shown in <FIG>, such as microphones or touch-sensors to receive user input. Where a host device is present, some or all of the signal processing, user input, user output, and configuration operations described above as being performed by controller <NUM> can instead be performed by appropriate components (including one or more suitably programmed processors) of the host device. It should also be understood that, although a single earpiece system <NUM> is shown, a personal audio device can include a pair of earpiece systems <NUM> (e.g., as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>). In some embodiments, one instance of earpiece system <NUM> may act as a primary earpiece that communicates with the host device and relays signals and/or other information to and from the other (secondary) earpiece; in other embodiments, each instance of earpiece system <NUM> can communicate directly with the host device, and the pair of earpiece systems might or might not also communicate directly with each other.

Further, while earpiece system <NUM> is described with reference to particular blocks, it is to be understood that these blocks are defined for convenience of description and are not intended to imply a particular physical arrangement of component parts. Further, the blocks need not correspond to physically distinct components. Blocks can be configured to perform various operations, e.g., by programming a processor or providing appropriate control circuitry, and various blocks might or might not be reconfigurable depending on how the initial configuration is obtained.

According to various embodiments, earpiece <NUM> can read ID tag <NUM> when tag sensor <NUM> is brought into proximity with ID tag <NUM>. The term "reading" of an identification tag is used herein to refer to the process of obtaining signals from tag sensor <NUM> responsive to physical characteristics of a particular ID tag <NUM> and interpreting the signals (e.g., using ID logic <NUM>) to extract identification data. The extracted identification data can be, e.g., a numerical value (or bit string) that represents identifying information such as a cushion size, color, material composition, manufacturer, and/or other characteristic(s). To enable reading of ID tag <NUM> by earpiece <NUM>, ID tag <NUM> and tag sensor <NUM> can be disposed on or within cushioning member <NUM> and earpiece <NUM> in respective locations such that attaching cushioning member <NUM> to earpiece <NUM> results in bringing ID tag <NUM> and tag sensor <NUM> into proximity to tag sensor <NUM> such that signals generated by tag sensor <NUM> are affected by specific properties of ID tag <NUM> that are different for different cushion types.

By way of example, <FIG> show simplified cross-section views of an earpiece <NUM> and an ear tip <NUM> according to some embodiments. Earpiece <NUM> and ear tip <NUM> can correspond to earbud <NUM> and ear tip <NUM> of <FIG> and can implement earpiece system <NUM> of <FIG>. In <FIG>, ear tip <NUM> is shown attached to earpiece <NUM>, and in <FIG>, ear tip <NUM> is shown detached from earpiece <NUM>.

Earpiece <NUM> can have a proximal surface <NUM> oriented toward ear tip <NUM>. A central portion of proximal surface <NUM> can project forward to form an end portion <NUM>, which can be shaped as a circular or elliptical cylinder extending from proximal surface <NUM>. (In some embodiments, end portion <NUM> can be tapered along its length; other shapes may also be used. ) In some embodiments, end portion <NUM> (or other portions of proximal surface <NUM>) can include mechanical retention features (not shown) to hold ear tip <NUM> in place when ear tip <NUM> is attached to end portion <NUM>; examples include an elastic ring or spring, a lip, a protrusion or notch, or the like. In some embodiments, a magnetic retention feature can be provided. In some embodiments, ear tip <NUM> can be made of an elastic material, and the elasticity of ear tip <NUM> can hold ear tip <NUM> in place over end portion <NUM>. End portion <NUM> can include a tag sensor <NUM> disposed near a sidewall surface of end portion <NUM>. Tag sensor <NUM> can include various electrical, magnetic, electromagnetic, optical, mechanical, acoustic, or other components; examples are descried below. Depending on implementation, tag sensor <NUM> can extend around part or all of the circumference of end portion <NUM>. Tag sensor <NUM> can be coupled to an ID logic circuit <NUM>, which need not be in proximity to the surface of end portion <NUM> and can be disposed anywhere within earpiece <NUM>. ID logic circuit <NUM> can be configured to interpret signals from tag sensor <NUM> and to output cushion-member identification data.

Ear tip <NUM> can include a sidewall <NUM>, which can define a central opening <NUM> complementary to end portion <NUM> of earbud <NUM>. For instance, the inner surface of sidewall <NUM> can be shaped as a circular or elliptic cylinder. A flexible lobe or cap <NUM> can extend outward from a front end of sidewall <NUM>. Flexible lobe <NUM> can be designed to fit into a user's ear canal and to be pliant to conform to the shape of the ear canal. Sidewall <NUM> can be more rigid than flexible lobe <NUM> and can include retention features such as an elastic ring or spring, a lip, a protrusion or notch, a magnetic retention feature, or the like, and the retention features of sidewall <NUM> can be complementary to corresponding retention features of end portion <NUM> of ear tip <NUM>. In some embodiments, the elasticity and static friction of sidewall <NUM> may serve as retention features.

Sidewall <NUM> can include ID tag <NUM>, which can be embedded within sidewall <NUM> or disposed on the inner surface of sidewall <NUM>. ID tag <NUM> can be or include one or more physical features that are distinct for different cushion types. These physical features can encode identification information specific to a particular type of ear tip <NUM>; examples are described below. Depending on implementation, ID tag <NUM> can have a cylindrical or curved shape that extends around part or all of the circumference of sidewall <NUM>. This can facilitate reading of ID tag <NUM> in cases where sidewall <NUM> is circularly symmetric or does not have a preferred attachment orientation.

As shown in <FIG>, when ear tip <NUM> is attached to earpiece <NUM>, tag sensor <NUM> is in close enough proximity to ID tag <NUM> of ear tip <NUM> to allow tag sensor <NUM> to generate a signal responsive to the distinctive physical features of identification tag <NUM>; in other words, tag sensor <NUM> can generate different signals in response to ID tags <NUM> that have different physical features. The arrangement of identification tag <NUM> and tag sensor <NUM> is also implementation-dependent. For instance, if ear tip <NUM> has a preferred rotational orientation, identification tag <NUM> can be positioned such that it is in proximity to tag sensor <NUM> when ear tip <NUM> is in the preferred rotational orientation. (In such cases, failure to read the identification data can trigger a notification to the user that ear tip <NUM> may be incorrectly oriented. ) In examples where ear tip <NUM> does not have a preferred rotational orientation, identification tag <NUM> and tag sensor <NUM> can be arranged to allow tag sensor <NUM> to read identification tag <NUM> regardless of rotational orientation. For instance, identification tag <NUM> can extend around the circumference of sidewall <NUM>, or multiple copies of identification tag <NUM> can be disposed around the circumference of sidewall <NUM> such that one copy can be within proximity for reading by tag sensor <NUM> regardless of rotational orientation. As another example, tag sensor <NUM> can extend around the periphery of end portion <NUM>, or multiple copies of tag sensor <NUM> can be disposed around the periphery of end portion <NUM> such that one copy can be within proximity of ID tag <NUM> regardless of rotational orientation. Other arrangements that provide proximity between ID tag <NUM> and tag sensor <NUM> can also be used. For example, as shown in <FIG>, tag sensor <NUM> can be disposed at or near a peripheral portion of proximal surface <NUM>, and identification tag <NUM> can be disposed at or near a corresponding location on the rear surface of sidewall <NUM>.

In various embodiments, proximity-based identification tags can be implemented in cushioning members having other form factors. For example, <FIG> shows a simplified cross-section view through an earpiece <NUM> and cushion <NUM> according to some embodiments. Earpiece <NUM> and cushion <NUM> can correspond to ear cup <NUM> and cushion <NUM> of <FIG>. In this example, earpiece <NUM> includes magnets <NUM> disposed at various locations around the periphery of earpiece <NUM>, close to interface surface <NUM>. Magnets <NUM> can be, e.g., rare earth magnets such as NdFeB magnets and can be polarized in a desired orientation. Tag sensor <NUM> can be disposed in a region between magnets <NUM>, near or on interface surface <NUM>. Tag sensor <NUM> can be coupled to an ID logic circuit <NUM>, which need not be in proximity to interface surface <NUM> and can be disposed anywhere within earpiece <NUM>. ID logic circuit <NUM> can be configured to interpret signals from tag sensor <NUM> and to output cushion-member identification data.

Cushion <NUM> can include attachment structures <NUM> that align with magnets <NUM>. Attachment structures <NUM> can be magnets polarized to be attracted to magnets <NUM>, or attachment structures <NUM> can be shunts made of a material that is attracted to magnets <NUM>. ID tag <NUM> can be disposed in a region between attachment structures <NUM>, near or on interface surface <NUM>, in a location such that when attachment structures <NUM> become magnetically attached to magnets <NUM>, ID tag <NUM> is in proximity to tag sensor <NUM>, allowing tag sensor <NUM> to read ID tag <NUM>. In various embodiments, ID tag <NUM> and tag sensor <NUM> can be any distance from attachment structures <NUM> and magnets <NUM>. Further, in some embodiments, the shape of attachment structures <NUM> can be used to represent cushion identification data, and a physically distinct ID tag <NUM> is not required. (An example of encoding identification data in a magnetic attachment structure is described below.

In some unclaimed examples, mechanical attachment structures may be used to attach an ear cup to a cushion, in addition to or instead of magnetic structures. <FIG> show simplified cross-section views through an earpiece <NUM> and cushion <NUM> according to some embodiments. Earpiece <NUM> and cushion <NUM> can correspond to ear cup <NUM> and cushion <NUM> of <FIG>. In <FIG>, cushion <NUM> is shown detached from earpiece <NUM>, and in <FIG>, cushion <NUM> is shown attached to earpiece <NUM>. Earpiece <NUM> has a proximal surface <NUM> oriented toward cushion <NUM>. Proximal surface <NUM> can include a recess <NUM>, and a tag sensor <NUM> can be disposed adjacent to (or on a surface of) recess <NUM>. Cushion <NUM> has a protruding structure <NUM> that extends outward from a rear surface <NUM> of cushion <NUM>. An ID tag <NUM> can be positioned within or on a surface of protruding structure <NUM>. In some unclaimed examples, protruding structure <NUM> and/or recess <NUM> can include additional mechanical retention features (not shown) to hold cushion <NUM> in place when cushion <NUM> is attached to earpiece <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, when cushion <NUM> is attached to earpiece <NUM>, tag sensor <NUM> is in proximity to ID tag <NUM>. (The arrangement is complementary to that shown in <FIG>, in that in <FIG>, the protruding part is on the earpiece and holds the tag sensor while the recess is in the cushioning member and holds the ID tag. ) It should be understood that a reverse arrangement can also be provided, in which a recess is formed in cushion <NUM> and a peg or other protruding part extends from proximal surface <NUM> of earpiece <NUM> into the recess.

It should be understood that these examples of positioning of ID tags and corresponding tag sensors are illustrative and that many variations are possible. Interface surfaces can be curved or flat as desired. Mechanical or magnetic retention features for attaching a cushioning member to an earpiece can be located in various positions on the earpiece or cushioning member, and the ID tag and tag sensor can be located within or adjacent to or spaced apart from retention features as desired. Depending on the particular identification technology, the ID tag and/or tag sensor can be visible on the interface surface, or they can be covered by surface material.

An identification tag (or ID tag) can be or include any physical structure that encodes identification data. In other words, an ID tag can be or include any physical structure that can be constructed or formed in multiple versions such that the version of the structure present in each type of cushioning member that is to be distinguished differs from the version present in other types in a way that can be detected by a sensor (i.e., that results in the sensor generating a distinctive signals for each version of the structure). Sections <NUM>-<NUM> describe examples of physical structures that can be used to encode identification data and corresponding tag sensors and ID logic that can read the identification data.

As described above with reference to <FIG>, a cushion can attach to an earpiece magnetically. In some embodiments, magnetic-attachment components in a cushion can be leveraged to provide an identification tag. An example will now be described.

<FIG> shows a partial exploded view of an earpiece system <NUM> according to some embodiments. Earpiece system <NUM> incorporates an earpiece <NUM> (e.g., an implementation of ear cup <NUM> of <FIG>) and a cushioning member <NUM> (e.g., an implementation of cushion <NUM> of <FIG>). Earpiece <NUM> has a housing <NUM> and a cover <NUM> that attaches to housing <NUM>. Cover <NUM> can have a peripheral annular shelf <NUM> and sidewall <NUM> surrounding a central recessed surface <NUM>. Cover <NUM> can be made of plastic and/or other rigid materials. Cushioning member <NUM> includes an annular cushion element <NUM> and an annular frame <NUM> attached to cushion <NUM>. Frame <NUM> can have a peripheral annular shelf <NUM> and a sidewall <NUM> shaped and sized such that frame <NUM> can nest in cover <NUM> with sidewall <NUM> of frame <NUM> abutting sidewall <NUM> of cover <NUM> and the underside of annular shelf <NUM> of frame <NUM> abutting the upper surface of annular shelf <NUM> of cover <NUM>.

One or more magnetic attachment structures can be used to detachably couple (e.g., magnetically couple) cover <NUM> and frame <NUM> when the frame <NUM> is nested within cover <NUM>. For example, when frame <NUM> has been positioned in cover <NUM>, the securing mechanisms can prevent frame <NUM> from being removed until a certain force threshold has been reached. In various embodiments, the magnetic attachment structures can be or include multiple components that engage with one another to attach frame <NUM> to cover <NUM>. For example, a "shunt" element <NUM>, such as metallic plate, may be positioned in one or more corner regions of frame <NUM>, and a magnet array <NUM> may be positioned in each corresponding region of cover <NUM>. Shunt element <NUM> can be or include a magnet and/or a metallic plate that can be made of steel, iron, nickel, cobalt, stainless steel, aluminum, gold, and/or any other material that can magnetically couple with magnet array <NUM>. Magnet array <NUM> can include one or more magnets, which can be permanent magnets made of ferromagnetic materials such as rare earth magnets (e.g., NdFeB magnets or the like). The magnets of magnet array <NUM> can have magnetic polarities oriented in specific directions. For example, the magnets can be arranged in a Halbach array (e.g., a rotating pattern of magnetic orientations), an alternating array (e.g., adjacent magnets have opposite magnetic orientations), and/or a single pole orientation (e.g., all magnets have the same magnetic orientation). Magnet array <NUM> can generate magnetic flux that can act on shunt element <NUM> to hold frame <NUM> in place when frame <NUM> is nested in cover <NUM>. In some embodiments, a magnet array <NUM> can be positioned at each of four (rounded) corner regions of annular shelf <NUM>. In some embodiments, magnet arrays <NUM> and/or shunt elements <NUM> can be arranged such that magnet arrays <NUM> exert sufficient force to hold frame <NUM> in place only when cushion <NUM> is inserted in a "correct" orientation. In embodiments where cushion <NUM> should be attached in a particular orientation, such an arrangement can aid the user in properly orienting the cushion.

<FIG> shows a partially transparent view of a portion of earpiece system <NUM> with frame <NUM> nested in cover <NUM>, illustrating operation of the attachment mechanism. Shunt element <NUM> on annular shelf <NUM> of cushion <NUM> is proximate to magnet array <NUM> on annular shelf <NUM> of earpiece <NUM>. In some embodiments, an additional metal shunt <NUM> can be positioned on cover <NUM> (e.g., between magnet array <NUM> and electronic components positioned within earpiece housing <NUM>). Metal shunt <NUM> can prevent or reduce magnetic flux from magnet array <NUM> from interfering with electronic components contained in earpiece <NUM>.

In some embodiments, magnet array <NUM> and shunt element <NUM> can be used to provide identification data for cushion <NUM>. <FIG> are simplified perspective views showing an example of magnetic cushion identification according to some embodiments. An identification system <NUM> includes magnet array <NUM> disposed on a portion of annular shelf <NUM> of cover <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>). A tag sensor <NUM> is disposed on annular shelf <NUM> adjacent to magnet array <NUM>. Tag sensor <NUM> can be, for example, a Hall effect sensor or other sensor capable of detecting magnetic flux from magnet array <NUM>.

An identification tag to distinguish different types of cushions <NUM> is provided by varying a geometric property (size and/or shape) of shunt element <NUM> to encode information data. <FIG> shows a first shunt element 808a that can be used to indicate a first cushion type, and <FIG> shows a second shunt element 808b that can be used to indicate a second cushion type. As shown in <FIG>, when a cushion having first shunt element 808a becomes attached to magnet array <NUM>, magnetic flux (indicated by looping arrows 805a) is shunted away from tag sensor <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, when a cushion having second shunt element 808b becomes attached to magnet array <NUM>, magnetic flux (indicated by looping arrows 805b) is shunted through tag sensor <NUM>. Accordingly, tag sensor <NUM> produces a different signal depending on whether first shunt element 808a or second shunt element 808b is present. Thus, shunt elements 808a, 808b, which have different lengths, provide an identification data encoding scheme that distinguishes two cushion types.

<FIG> are simplified perspective views showing another example of magnetic cushion identification according to some embodiments. An identification system <NUM> includes magnet array <NUM> disposed on a portion of annular shelf <NUM> of cover <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>). A tag sensor <NUM> is disposed on annular shelf <NUM> between magnets of magnet array <NUM>. Tag sensor <NUM> can be, for example, a Hall effect sensor or other sensor capable of detecting magnetic flux from magnet array <NUM>.

An identification tag for a particular cushion <NUM> is provided by varying the size and/or shape of a shunt element. <FIG> shows a first shunt element 908a that can be used to indicate a first cushion type, and <FIG> shows a second shunt element 908b that can be used to indicate a second cushion type. As shown in <FIG>, when a cushion having first shunt element 908a becomes attached to magnet array <NUM>, magnetic flux (indicated by looping arrows 905a) is shunted around tag sensor <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, when a cushion having second shunt element 908b (which is split, or has a gap, at a location <NUM> along its length) becomes attached to magnet array <NUM>, magnetic flux (indicated by looping arrows 905b) is shunted through tag sensor <NUM>. Accordingly, tag sensor <NUM> produces a different signal depending on whether first shunt element 908a or second shunt element 908b is present. Thus, shunt elements 908a, 908b also provide an identification data encoding scheme that distinguishes two cushion types.

In the examples of <FIG> and <FIG>, two types of cushions can be distinguished based on whether magnetic flux is shunted away from or through tag sensor <NUM> or tag sensor <NUM>. In some embodiments, it may be desirable to increase the number of cushion types that can be distinguished. To increase the number of cushion types that can be distinguished, some embodiments can include multiple instances of magnet array <NUM> (e.g. one instance at each corner of earpiece <NUM>), with each instance of magnet array <NUM> having an associated tag sensor (e.g., tag sensor <NUM> or tag sensor <NUM>). Each tag sensor can provide one bit of information, depending on whether the corresponding shunt element shunts the magnetic flux through or away from that sensor. The shapes of the various instances of shunt element <NUM> can be varied independently of each other. Accordingly, if there are N instances of magnet array <NUM> and N instances of shunt element <NUM>, then N bits of identification data can be provided, allowing <NUM>N cushion types to be distinguished. In another approach, each instance of magnet array <NUM> can include multiple tag sensors disposed between adjacent magnets, and shunt element <NUM> can be split or not split (as shown in <FIG>) at various locations, so that a single shunt element can encode multiple bits of information. These two approaches can be combined, with multiple magnet arrays each having multiple tag sensors, to further increase the number of cushion types that can be distinguished.

In some embodiments, a magnet array may be included in a cushion in addition to or instead of in an earpiece. <FIG> shows an example of a cushion <NUM> according to some embodiments that includes a magnet array <NUM>. Magnet array <NUM> includes a number of individual permanent magnets <NUM> (or regions of ferromagnetic material), each having a specific magnetic orientation (indicated by arrows). Ear cup <NUM> can have a tag sensor <NUM> that includes an array of Hall effect sensors <NUM>. Hall effect sensors <NUM> can be positioned such that they are adjacent to magnet array <NUM> when cushion <NUM> is attached to ear cup <NUM>. The pattern of magnetic orientations of magnet array <NUM> can encode cushion identification data. Hall effect sensors <NUM> can respond to the magnetic orientations, enabling ID logic <NUM> to extract identification data from the pattern of magnetic orientations. In some embodiments, each magnet <NUM> can encode one bit of identification data. Thus, an identification tag for a cushion can include a magnet array, and the corresponding tag sensor can include sensors to detect a pattern of magnetic orientation for the magnet array.

It will be appreciated that the foregoing examples of magnetic-based identification of a cushioning member are illustrative and that the invention covers variations and modifications that fall within the scope of the appended independent claims. Magnetic-based identification can be implemented in any earpiece system where the cushioning member is magnetically attached to the earpiece, including cushions attached to ear cups and ear tips attached to earbuds. Further, magnetic features similar to those described above can be provided for purposes of identifying the cushioning member, regardless of whether magnetic attachment structures are used.

Referring again to <FIG>, regardless of the particular implementation of identification tag <NUM> and associated tag sensor <NUM> and identification logic <NUM>, an earpiece <NUM> (e.g., ear cup or earbud) can read the identification tag <NUM> of a cushioning member <NUM> (e.g., cushion or ear tip) and adapt some aspect of its behavior accordingly.

<FIG> is a flow diagram of a process <NUM> that can be performed in an earpiece system such as earpiece system <NUM> of <FIG> according to some embodiments. At block <NUM>, process <NUM> can detect the presence of cushioning member <NUM>. For example, earpiece <NUM> may include a proximity or presence sensor that detects when cushioning member <NUM> is attached by a user. Examples of proximity sensors are known in the art and include, e.g., Hall effect sensors that can respond to a magnetic element disposed within cushioning member <NUM>, optical sensors that can detect occlusion by cushioning member <NUM>, mechanical switches that may be deflected into a different position when cushioning member <NUM> is attached, or the like. As another example, earpiece <NUM> can periodically poll tag sensor <NUM> to determine whether a cushioning member is present. A particular presence detection mechanism or process is not required.

At block <NUM>, process <NUM> can obtain identification data (or identification information) from cushioning member <NUM>, e.g., by operating tag sensor <NUM> and ID logic <NUM> to read identification tag <NUM>. Identification tag <NUM> can encode identification data using a variety of physical structures, including any of the above-described magnetic, RF-based, resonance-based, optical, acoustic, capacitive, or electrical structures, or any other structure. As used herein, identification data can provide at least some additional information beyond merely indicating presence or absence of a cushioning member. For example, the identification data can represent any or all of: a manufacturer identifier; a model identifier; a size identifier; a color identifier; a device-class identifier (e.g., indicating presence or absence of various capabilities or characteristics); a unique serial number; and so on. Identification data can be encoded in or on identification tag <NUM> in any manner that enables earpiece <NUM> to read or receive the identification data while cushioning member <NUM> is attached, including any or all of the examples described above.

In embodiments where earpiece system <NUM> operates as an accessory to a host device <NUM>, at block <NUM>, process <NUM> can communicate the identification data to the host device, e.g., via communication interface <NUM>. Communication of identification data to a host device is not required, and in some embodiments a host device may not be present.

At block <NUM>, earpiece system <NUM> and/or host device <NUM> can modify a device behavior based on the identification data. In some embodiments, the modification applies to the earpiece. For example, an equalizer setting for earpiece <NUM> can be selected or modified based (entirely or in part) on the identification data. As another example, settings related to hearing protection can be modified, such as volume limits, active noise cancellation profiles, or the like. In some embodiments where earpiece <NUM> is used as an accessory for host device <NUM>, and behavior of host device <NUM> can be modified. The modified behavior of host device <NUM> can, but need not, relate to providing audio to earpiece <NUM>. For instance, the host device may provide a graphical user interface that includes an image of a personal audio device with which the host device is currently interoperating. In some embodiments, the image can be modified based on the identification data, e.g., by changing the color, shape, or other aspects of appearance of the cushioning member in the image to resemble aspects of the particular cushioning member that is currently attached.

It will be appreciated that process <NUM> is illustrative and that variations and modifications are possible. For instance, in some embodiments, the operations of detecting presence of a cushioning member and obtaining identification data from the cushioning member can be combined. In some embodiments, a personal audio device can include two instances of earpiece system <NUM> (one for each ear). Where this is the case, each earpiece <NUM> can read the ID tag <NUM> of its attached cushioning member <NUM> and can communicate the identification data to the other earpiece <NUM> and/or to host device <NUM>. (If the identification data read by the two earpieces is not consistent, e.g., the cushions are of two different types, various actions can be taken. For example, the user can be alerted to the mismatch. In some embodiments, host device <NUM> can determine which identification data to use for modifying device behavior. ) In some embodiments, an ID tag <NUM> may be included in only one cushioning member of a pair, in which case only one earpiece <NUM> would read an ID tag <NUM>. In some embodiments, identification data can be used for other purposes in addition to (or instead of) modifying device behavior.

Depending on the particular identification data available in a given embodiment, an earpiece and/or host device can use identification data in a number of ways. By way of example of identification data, <FIG> shows a table <NUM> with examples of mapping an ID value (column <NUM>) to characteristics of a cushioning member according to some embodiments. In this example, the cushioning members are ear tips that attach to earbuds. Different ear tips can be distinct in size, color, material, and/or manufacturer. Each ID value in column <NUM> maps to a different combination of size, color, material, and manufacturer. ID tag <NUM> for a given ear tip can encode one of the defined ID values, and ID logic <NUM> can use tag sensor <NUM> to determine which ID value is encoded in a particular ID tag <NUM>. Earpiece <NUM> or host device <NUM> can decode the ID value, e.g., by referring to a lookup table implementing table <NUM>, to determine the corresponding characteristics of size, color, material and manufacturer. It should be understood that table <NUM> is an example. Depending on the amount (e.g., number of bits) of identification data available in a particular tag, more or fewer characteristics can be distinguished and/or a given characteristic can have more or fewer distinct values.

As described above with reference to <FIG>, an earpiece <NUM> and/or host device <NUM> can modify its behavior based on identification data for an attached cushioning member <NUM>. The particular modification of behavior in various embodiments can depend on the type of information available, as well as the capabilities of earpiece <NUM> and/or host device <NUM>. Examples will now be described.

In some embodiments, an earpiece <NUM> and/or host device <NUM> can modify its behavior by changing audio output characteristics based on the cushion type identified by the cushion identification data. For instance, it is known in the art that equalizer settings can be used to improve perceived sound quality of a speaker. The audible frequency spectrum can be subdivided into a number of bands, and the relative responses in different bands can be increased or decreased according to the equalizer settings. Optimal equalizer settings may depend in part on the characteristics of the speaker. In the case of personal audio devices such as earphones and headphones, cushioning members made of different materials and/or having different geometries (size and/or shape) can have different effects on sound waves produced by a speaker; hence, the optimal equalizer settings can be different for cushioning members of different types.

Accordingly, in some embodiments, the identification data can include a device class identifier that distinguishes cushion types based on materials and/or geometry. The earpiece or host device can store a lookup table that maps each device class identifier to recommended equalizer settings and can select equalizer settings based at least in part on the device class identifier. In some embodiments, the recommended equalizer settings based on device class identifier can indicate adjustments to a baseline equalizer setting that is determined based on other factors, such as the type of audio being produced (e.g., music vs. spoken word, particular genre of music, etc.) and/or information about the environment.

As another example, some earpieces (or host devices) can provide active noise cancellation. In active noise cancellation, a secondary audio signal is generated that is intended to cancel out ambient sounds that may leak into the user's ear (e.g., airplane engine noise), and the secondary audio signal can be played in isolation or combined (mixed) with a primary audio signal that the user is listening to. The effectiveness of noise cancellation in a given earpiece can depend on the properties of the cushioning member; for instance, different cushioning members may admit different amounts of ambient sound, and the amount of admitted sound may depend on frequency.

Accordingly, in some embodiments, a noise cancellation profile used to generate a secondary audio signal for an earpiece can be modified based on identification data (e.g., a device class identifier) obtained from the cushioning member. In some cases, modifying a noise cancellation profile may include enabling or disabling active noise cancellation, or increasing or decreasing the strength of the secondary audio signal either globally or within specific frequency bands.

As another example, some cushioning members may belong to a device class that is designed for use in environments where it is desirable to reduce ambient noise but not to suppress specific sounds (e.g., human speech). In some embodiments, when the identification data indicates that a cushioning member belongs to this device class, appropriate sound-filtering or active noise cancellation algorithms can be automatically applied.

As yet another example, some cushioning members may be designed for use by children, who can be particularly vulnerable to hearing damage caused by prolonged exposure to loud sounds. In some embodiments, when the identification data indicates that a cushioning member is designed for children, volume limits can automatically be applied to the speaker of the personal audio device, which can help to protect the user's ears. It should be understood that volume-limiting operations are not applicable only to children, and volume limits can be associated with any device class.

As still another example, some embodiments described above use cushion identification to determine whether a cushioning member is attached to the earpiece. One specific example is described above in the context of acoustic identification techniques, but any of the techniques described above for reading an identification tag can also indicate whether an identification tag (and presumably a cushioning member) is present or not. In some embodiments, an earpiece may be designed for use either with or without a cushioning member, and audio characteristics can be modified based on whether a cushioning member is attached. In other embodiments, an earpiece may be designed for use only with a cushioning member, and the behavior modification when a cushioning member is not detected can include, e.g., notifying the user to attach a cushioning member or not generating sound in the earpiece (or only a low level of sound) when no cushioning member is present.

Other behavior modifications can relate to user interface features. For example, a host device with which a personal audio device interoperates can have a graphical user interface that shows an icon or image representing the personal audio device. In some embodiments, the icon or image can be modified based on the identification data. For example, if the identification data identifies the shape, color, or other visual characteristics of the cushioning member that is currently attached, the icon or image can be modified to reflect the actual shape, color, or other visual characteristics of the cushioning member.

It should be understood that these examples of device behavior modification are illustrative. Other behavior modifications can be implemented, and different sets of behavior modifications can be associated with different identification data. In some embodiments, the user can have an option to override the behavior modification, e.g., via a user interface of the host device, via voice command, or the like.

It should also be understood that in some instances a cushion identification process might fail to read the cushion identification data due to various circumstances, such as absence of or damage to the identification tag, transient errors in a tag sensor, or the like. Accordingly, some unclaimed examples may implement a default behavior mode when cushion identification fails. A default behavior mode can include, for example: operating with default equalizer and/or active noise cancellation profiles; rendering a default cushion image in a graphical user interface; and so on.

In some unclaimed examples, identifying information for a cushioning member that is currently attached to an earpiece can be used to assist a user in selecting a cushioning member to optimize the user's audio experience.

For example, in some unclaimed examples where size of the cushioning member is a characteristic that can be determined from ID tag <NUM>, the identification data can be used to assist a user in selecting a cushioning member of optimal size. <FIG> shows a flow diagram of a fitting process <NUM> according to some unclaimed examples. Fitting process <NUM> can be implemented, e.g., in a host device that interoperates with an earpiece, such as host device <NUM> of <FIG> interoperating with earpiece system <NUM>.

At block <NUM>, process <NUM> can prompt the user to attach a cushioning member (e.g., an ear tip) to an earpiece (e.g., an earbud) in order to perform size testing. For example, a host device can provide the prompt via a graphical user interface or voice prompt. Once the user has attached the ear tip, at block <NUM> process <NUM> can obtain identification data from the ear tip. In some unclaimed examples, block <NUM> can be similar to block <NUM> of process <NUM> described above, and any of the identification tags and compatible tag sensors and identification logic described above can be used. Identification data can be varied as desired, provided that the identification data enables determination of a size parameter for the ear tip.

At block <NUM>, process <NUM> can determine the size parameter for the ear tip based on the identification data. In some unclaimed examples, the identification data may include a numerical value that maps directly to a size (e.g., numerical values <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> can map to sizes small, medium, and large). In other unclaimed examples, size can be determined by a lookup operation on the identification data (e.g., using table <NUM> of <FIG>) or the like.

At block <NUM>, process <NUM> can perform an audio leakage test. Examples of leakage tests for earpieces are known in the art and can include detecting external sounds leaking in through the earpiece and/or detecting sounds produced by the earpiece leaking out to the environment. A particular test is not relevant to understanding the present disclosure. At block <NUM>, process <NUM> can determine whether the leakage test was successful. For instance, success or failure of a leakage test can be defined based on whether the level of sound leakage is below or above some preset threshold. In the event of failure, at block <NUM> process <NUM> can provide a recommendation for another size to try next. Because process <NUM> has determined the size of the ear tip that was tested, the recommendation can be more specific than a general suggestion to try a different size. For instance, based on the current size and the leakage test result, process <NUM> can provide a recommendation to try a larger (or smaller) size or to try a specific size. If, at block <NUM>, the leakage test succeeds, then at block <NUM> process <NUM> can confirm that the currently-attached size provides appropriate protection against sound leakage.

It will be appreciated that process <NUM> is illustrative and can be modified. Process <NUM> can be used with a variety of leakage tests and a variety of earpieces and cushioning members (including cushions for ear cups). Similar processes can also be used to assess whether a particular cushioning member is providing satisfactory audio performance and to recommend a different cushioning member that may provide improved performance. For example, in addition to or instead of having different sizes, different types of cushioning members may be made of different materials that provide different levels of insulation from external sounds, and a recommendation for a cushioning member made of a particular material can be made based on leakage tests and/or user feedback regarding the subjective audio experience. In some unclaimed examples, a process such as process <NUM> can be implemented entirely within the earpiece, e.g., using indicator lights or voice prompts to communicate test results and recommendations.

Embodiments described above can leverage a variety of data encoding and reading technologies to encode and read identification data for a cushion. As described above, different technologies can enable different amounts of information to be encoded, from <NUM> or <NUM> bits up to several kilobytes. Accordingly, many types of information can be encoded, including materials, manufacturer name, date of manufacture, and/or a unique cushion identifier (e.g., a serial number). Where available, detailed identification data, such as a unique cushion identifier, can be used for a variety of purposes. For example, some embodiments, a cushioning member can be made (entirely or in part) of foam and/or elastic materials that may degrade (e.g., become rigid or excessively pliant) after a long period of use or even without use due to aging of the materials. In embodiments where the identification data uniquely identifies a specific cushioning member (e.g., by serial number), a personal audio device or an associated host device can monitor and track usage history of that cushioning member, e.g., by tracking cumulative hours of use. In some unclaimed examples, the personal audio device or associated host device can generate a notification to the user when the usage history indicates that the cushioning member may be due for maintenance (e.g., cleaning) or replacement. Similarly, if the identification data provides information usable to determine the age of the cushioning member (e.g., a date of manufacture), the personal audio device or associated host device can determine whether the cushioning member should be replaced due to age (with or without reference to any usage history information). In some unclaimed examples, usage monitoring can be performed with less-granular cushion identification data. For example, referring to <FIG>, it may be assumed that a particular user has only one set of large red ear tips from manufacturer MFR <NUM>, and usage monitoring can be based on that assumption.

As another example, where the identification data uniquely identifies a specific cushioning member, the behavior of the personal audio device can be modified according to user-specific preferences when a particular cushioning member is identified as being attached. For instance, while a particular cushioning member is attached, a user may adjust equalizer settings, noise cancellation preferences, volume settings, volume limits, or other operating parameters for the personal audio device. In some unclaimed examples, the personal audio device (or a host device with which the personal audio device interoperates) can save the user preferences in association with the identification data for the cushioning member. The next time the same cushioning member is identified by the personal audio device (or by the host device, as the case may be), the saved user preferences can be automatically retrieved and applied. In other unclaimed examples, user preferences can be saved in association with identification data at a less granular level; for instance user preferences can be stored in association with an identifier of a specific device class rather than a specific cushioning member, and the stored preferences can be applied whenever a cushioning member is identified as having that device class. In some unclaimed examples, a host device that saves user preferences associated with a particular cushioning member (or device class) can share the saved preferences with other devices that can act as host devices (e.g., other personal electronic devices belonging to the same user). Accordingly, a user can easily transfer user preferences associated with a particular cushioning member (or device class) to another host device.

In some unclaimed examples, a cushioning member (referred to herein as an "advanced" cushioning member) may include active circuitry implementing additional capabilities beyond cushioning and/or sound insulation. For example, one or more sensors can be embedded into a cushioning member to detect a user's pulse, temperature, perspiration, or other biometric information. (The particular type or capability of the sensor(s) embedded in a cushioning member may be varied as desired. ) Identification data for an advanced cushioning member can include data indicating the particular capabilities of the advanced cushioning member (e.g., the sensor type(s) of embedded sensor(s)), and the earpiece (and/or a host device) can modify a behavior accordingly. For example, the earpiece can enable supplying of power to the cushioning member when an advanced cushioning member is identified and disable supplying of power otherwise. As another example, based on the identification data for a particular cushioning member, an earpiece (or a host device) can determine when to read sensor data from the cushioning member and/or how to interpret received sensor data. It will be appreciated that a wide variety of advanced capabilities can be selectively enabled or disabled based on identification data obtained from a particular cushioning member.

Although the description makes reference to ear tips that may be positioned at least partially within the user's ear canal and to cushions that may be worn on the ear or over the ear, similar principles can be applied to any cushioning member that can be detachably attached to an earpiece of a personal audio device. The particular size and shape of a cushioning member or an earpiece can be modified as desired.

The amount, content, and format of identification data or identification information can be varied as desired. Identification data can range from a small amount of data (e.g., two or three bits) specifying size or color to an arbitrarily long number (which can be represented, e.g., as bit string) that uniquely identifies a particular cushioning member. In some embodiments, identification data can be structured. For instance, if the identification data is represented as a bit string, one portion of the bit string may identify a device class, another portion may identify a manufacturer, and so on. Lookup tables or the like can also be used to map arbitrary numerical identification data to a particular combination of properties of a cushioning member.

As described above, identification data can be used to modify device behavior, including the production of sound by the earpiece, user interface features, interactions between the earpiece and cushioning member (e.g., reading sensor data), and so on. Identification data can also be used to monitor the condition of a particular cushioning member and to notify the user when a cushioning member may benefit from maintenance (e.g., cleaning) or replacement. Other behavior modifications and/or user-supportive operations can be implemented based on the identification data.

Some embodiments described above refer to a single earpiece and a single cushioning member. It should be understood that a personal audio device may include a pair of earpieces of like design (e.g., as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>) and that cushioning members may likewise be provided in pairs of like design. Where cushioning members are provided in pairs, an identification tag can be included in either or both cushioning members of the pair, and reader circuitry to read the identification tag may be included in either or both earpieces. If reader circuitry in the two earpieces of a pair detect a discrepancy in identification data between their respective cushioning members (e.g., identification data indicating different device classes or sizes), various responsive actions can be taken. For example, the user can be notified of the discrepancy; audio settings for the two earpieces can be modified differently based on the identification data of their respective cushion members; or audio settings for both earpieces can be selected based on blending audio settings associated with the two cushioning members.

Various features described herein, e.g., methods, apparatus, computer-readable media and the like, can be realized using any combination of dedicated components and/or programmable processors and/or other programmable devices. The various processes described herein can be implemented on the same processor or different processors in any combination. Where components are described as being configured to perform certain operations, such configuration can be accomplished, e.g., by designing electronic circuits to perform the operation, by programming programmable electronic circuits (such as microprocessors) to perform the operation, or any combination thereof. Further, while the embodiments described above may make reference to specific hardware and software components, those skilled in the art will appreciate that different combinations of hardware and/or software components may also be used and that particular operations described as being implemented in hardware might also be implemented in software or vice versa.

Computer programs incorporating various features described herein may be encoded and stored on various computer readable storage media; suitable media include magnetic disk or tape, optical storage media such as compact disk (CD) or DVD (digital versatile disk), flash memory, and other non-transitory media. Computer readable media encoded with the program code may be packaged with a compatible electronic device, or the program code may be provided separately from electronic devices (e.g., via Internet download or as a separately packaged computer-readable storage medium).

In some embodiments, the identification data can uniquely identify a particular cushioning member that belongs to a particular user; where this is the case, the identification data might be regarded as personally identifiable information. In particular, personally identifiable information should be managed and handled so as to minimize risks of unintentional or unauthorized access or use, and the nature of authorized use should be clearly indicated to users. For instance, in some embodiments, identification data for a cushion or tip need not be provided to any entity other than the earpiece or (optionally) a user-owned host device with which the earpiece interoperates. Users may be informed of and prompted to opt in to any sharing of data that may occur.

Claim 1:
A cushioning member (<NUM>) for an earpiece (<NUM>) of a personal audio device, the cushioning member comprising:
a body having a first surface to be placed in contact with a user's ear area and a second surface, at least the first surface being made of a compliant material; and
a first magnetic attachment structure disposed on the second surface and configured to attach the cushioning member to an earpiece of a personal audio device,
characterized in that a geometric property of the first magnetic attachment structure encodes identification data for the cushioning member.