Earplug
Inventors
Assignees
Publication Number
US-12245917-B2
Publication Date
2025-03-11
Expiration Date
2037-11-07
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Abstract
Devices, apparatus, systems and methods to regulate pressure in earplug are disclosed. Some embodiments provide auditory attenuation and others may further include communications capability. The devices and apparatus are well-suited for use by divers and pilots in particular.
Core Innovation
The invention provides a pressure-regulating earplug comprising an earplug body with an external surface adapted for sealing engagement in the ear canal. The earplug body includes a conduit that creates fluid communication between the external atmosphere and the ear canal. A pressure regulator, affixed to the earplug body, is provided in-line with the conduit. This pressure regulator consists of a normally closed passive valve assembly that automatically opens when a set pressure differential occurs, thereby equilibrating pressure between the external environment and the ear canal.
The problem addressed is that conventional earplugs offer fixed sound attenuation and must be completely removed for the user to hear. Existing earplugs capable of sound attenuation cannot be worn in environments such as diving or airplane operation because of harmful pressure changes. Vented earplugs, which attempt to ameliorate pressure issues, offer significantly less attenuation and are prone to clogging. Thus, there is a need for a better-designed pressure equalizing earplug that achieves both auditory protection and safe pressure equilibration.
The innovation also encompasses configurations with multi-flanged earplugs, various materials, and systems integrating communications components. Embodiments can include a communication system, and additional conduits to house components such as wiring. The invention further describes use scenarios for dive helmets and earmuff systems, providing pressure regulation, noise attenuation, and compatibility with near-field magnetic induction communications. The valve assemblies are configured to open at specific pressure thresholds, are resistant to clogging, and can be tailored for various environments and use requirements.
Claims Coverage
There are three independent claims providing a total of three inventive features.
Pressure-regulating earplug with dual normally-closed passive valves
A pressure-regulating earplug comprising: - An earplug body adapted to sealingly engage the ear canal, with a conduit for fluid communication between external atmosphere and the ear canal. - A pressure regulator affixed to the earplug body in-line with the conduit, configured to be normally closed, and selectively open. - The pressure regulator includes: - A first normally-closed passive valve that automatically opens permitting fluid communication when pressure within the ear canal exceeds external pressure by a first threshold. - A second normally-closed passive valve, substantially concentric to the first, that opens when external pressure exceeds internal pressure by a second threshold. - The valve assembly comprises a conically shaped body, a valve conduit with an opening on a first side and reversibly sealable opening on a second side, at least one orifice parallel with the valve conduit, and an umbrella configured to reversibly seal the orifice.
Pressure-regulating earplug with additional conduit for components
A pressure-regulating earplug comprising: - An earplug body adapted for sealing engagement, including a conduit for fluid communication and at least one additional conduit. - A pressure regulator, configured as in the first inventive feature, with dual normally-closed passive valves. - The at least one additional conduit is designed to house additional components, such as electrical or communication system elements, and may be sealed against external atmosphere or water influx.
Pressure-regulating earplug system for diver's helmet applications
A pressure-regulating earplug system comprising: - A diver's helmet configured to seal an external atmosphere from water, and including a backup speaker and an earcup. - A pressure-regulating earplug as previously described, with an earplug body and dual normally-closed passive valve assembly arranged to regulate pressure between the internal and external ear. - The system is designed such that the earplug permits safe pressure regulation and auditory protection within a helmeted diving environment.
The inventive features address pressure regulation in earplugs using dual passive valves, enable integration of additional system components through dedicated conduits, and provide system-level solutions for use in diver’s helmets.
Stated Advantages
Provides safe systems that support high rates of pressure change without risk of barotrauma.
Offers noise attenuation equivalent to solid earplugs by closing the sound transmission path when the valve is closed.
Reduces potential for clogging compared to traditional vented earplugs due to larger, actively sealed valve openings.
Improves communication capabilities, especially with near-field magnetic induction systems, by maintaining a closed cavity for efficient, high-fidelity sound production.
Reduces diver noise exposure to safer levels, allowing longer exposure times in high-noise environments.
Functions as a stand-alone system requiring no helmet modifications, enabling fast transitions between different applications.
Compatible with wireless communications and allows integration of various communication and electrical components.
Can achieve substantial noise attenuation, in some embodiments between about 25 dB to 79 dB.
Less susceptible to clogging and capable of operation at significant working depths.
Documented Applications
Use by divers for hearing protection and pressure regulation in conjunction with dive helmets.
Use by pilots for protection against harmful noise and rapid pressure changes.
Integration with communication systems, including near-field magnetic induction communication for improved auditory communication.
Adaptation for earpiece devices, hearing aids, and situational awareness systems.
Use as part of a pressure-regulator earplug system for helmeted divers, including in decompression chambers.
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