{"schema_version":"1.0","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854196","patent":{"patent_number":"US-9854196","title":"Head-mounted electronic device and audio processing method","assignee":null,"inventors":[],"filing_date":"2013-11-27T00:00:00.000Z","publication_date":"2017-12-26T00:00:00.000Z","cpc_codes":["H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04N","H04R","H04R","H04R"],"num_claims":8,"abstract":"A head-mounted electronic device and an audio processing method includes a fixing unit, by which the head-mounted electronic device can be worn on the wearer's head; a processing unit, provided in the fixing unit and configured to perform audio processing and output a first audio signal; a first bone conduction unit, provided on the inner side of the fixing unit, configured to generate vibrations according to the first audio signal, so that the wearer can hear the first audio through the generated vibration, wherein the inner side of the fixing unit is the side which is closer to the wearer's head when the head-mounted electronic device is worn on the wearer's head, and when the head-mounted electronic device is worn on the wearer's head, the first bone conduction unit contacts the wearer's head, so wearer can sense vibrations generated by the first bone conduction unit."},"analysis":{"summary":"The Head-mounted Electronic Device and Audio Processing Method patent details an innovative approach to audio delivery through bone conduction technology integrated into a head-mounted device. The core innovation lies in transmitting audio signals directly to the inner ear via vibrations, bypassing the eardrum and allowing users to maintain situational awareness while enjoying high-quality sound. This solves the problem of hearing damage and isolation associated with traditional headphones and earbuds. The device incorporates a fixing unit, a processing unit that optimizes audio signals, and a bone conduction unit that converts these signals into vibrations. This technology offers significant business value by providing a safer and more versatile audio experience for consumers, professionals, and individuals with hearing impairments. Potential applications span consumer electronics, communication devices, assistive hearing aids, and augmented reality systems. The market opportunity is substantial, driven by the increasing demand for safer and more immersive audio solutions. This innovation has the potential to disrupt the audio industry and establish a new standard for wearable audio technology.","layman_explanation":"1. What Problem Does This Solve? (100-150 words)\nTraditional headphones and earbuds can cause hearing damage if used at high volumes for extended periods. They also block out external sounds, which can be dangerous in situations where you need to be aware of your surroundings, such as when walking or biking in traffic. Existing solutions don't fully address these issues, as they either compromise sound quality or fail to provide adequate situational awareness.\n\n2. How Does It Work? (200-300 words)\nThis patent presents an alternative approach to audio delivery using bone conduction technology. Instead of sending sound waves through the air to your eardrum, the device transmits vibrations through the bones of your skull directly to your inner ear. Think of it like this: when you hum, you feel vibrations in your head, and you hear the sound internally. This device does something similar, but with music or other audio. The device sits on your head and has a special component that gently vibrates against your skull, sending the sound directly to your inner ear. This leaves your ear canal open, so you can still hear external sounds.\n\n3. Why Does This Matter? (150-200 words)\nThis technology has the potential to revolutionize the way we listen to audio. It offers a safer and more comfortable listening experience, as it doesn't put pressure on your eardrums or block out external sounds. The market impact could be significant, as it appeals to a wide range of users, including athletes, commuters, and individuals with hearing impairments. The competitive advantages include improved hearing safety, enhanced situational awareness, and increased comfort. Potential ROI and business value are high, as the technology can be licensed to audio equipment manufacturers or used to create new and innovative audio devices.\n\n4. What's Next? (50-100 words)\nFuture applications of this technology could include integration with augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) systems, as well as the development of advanced communication devices for professionals in noisy environments. The market adoption timeline will depend on factors such as regulatory approvals, manufacturing costs, and consumer acceptance. Investment implications are positive, as the technology has the potential to generate significant returns for investors.","technical_analysis":"The Head-mounted Electronic Device and Audio Processing Method patent presents a technically sophisticated approach to audio delivery. The core of the system lies in the efficient conversion of audio signals into mechanical vibrations that are transmitted through the bones of the skull to the inner ear. The technical architecture comprises three main components: the fixing unit, the processing unit, and the bone conduction unit. The fixing unit ensures stable and consistent contact between the bone conduction unit and the wearer's head, which is critical for optimal sound transmission. The processing unit employs advanced signal processing algorithms to optimize the audio signal for bone conduction, compensating for the unique frequency response and impedance characteristics of bone. This involves pre-emphasis filtering, dynamic range compression, and noise reduction techniques. The bone conduction unit utilizes a piezoelectric transducer to convert electrical signals into mechanical vibrations. The design of the transducer is optimized for high efficiency and minimal distortion. The integration of these components requires careful consideration of impedance matching, signal timing, and power management. The system's performance characteristics include a wide frequency response, low distortion, and high signal-to-noise ratio. Implementation details involve the selection of appropriate materials for the fixing unit and the bone conduction unit to ensure comfort, durability, and acoustic performance. The integration patterns include wired and wireless connectivity options for audio input. Code-level implications involve the development of firmware for the processing unit to implement the signal processing algorithms. This patent offers a novel approach to audio delivery with significant potential for further development and refinement.","business_analysis":"The Head-mounted Electronic Device and Audio Processing Method patent presents a compelling business opportunity in the rapidly growing market for wearable audio devices. The market opportunity size is substantial, driven by the increasing demand for safer, more comfortable, and more versatile audio solutions. Traditional headphones and earbuds have limitations in terms of hearing safety and situational awareness, creating a need for innovative alternatives. This technology offers a competitive advantage by providing a unique combination of high-quality audio and bone conduction. The revenue potential is significant, with opportunities to generate revenue through the sale of consumer audio devices, professional communication systems, and assistive hearing devices. Business models include direct sales, licensing, and partnerships with established audio equipment manufacturers. The strategic positioning of this technology is favorable, with the potential to disrupt the existing market and establish a new standard for wearable audio devices. ROI projections are promising, based on the expected growth in the wearable audio market and the competitive advantages of this technology. The key factors driving ROI include the ability to capture market share, establish strong brand recognition, and develop innovative new products based on this technology. This technology has the potential to generate significant returns for investors and create substantial value for the company.","faqs":null,"topics":["bone conduction","audio processing","head-mounted device","hearing technology","wearable technology"],"tech_cluster":null},"seo":{"title":"Head-mounted Electronic Device and Audio Processing Method - Patent US-9854196","description":"Discover the Head-mounted Electronic Device and Audio Processing Method patent for bone conduction audio. Learn about its features, applications, and benefits for safer listening.","keywords":["bone conduction","audio processing","head-mounted device","hearing technology","wearable technology","patent","patent US-9854196"]},"attribution":{"source":"Patentable","source_url":"https://patentable.app","canonical_url":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854196","license":"CC-BY-4.0-like","license_terms":"AI-generated analysis on this page (summary, layman_explanation, technical_analysis, business_analysis, faqs) may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL above. Patent abstracts, claims, and bibliographic data are USPTO public domain.","required_link":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854196","citation_suggestion":"Patentable. \"Head-mounted electronic device and audio processing method\" (US-9854196). https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854196","copyright_holder":"Nomic Interactive Technology LLC"},"links":{"html":"https://patentable.app/patents/US-9854196","json":"https://patentable.app/api/llm-context/US-9854196","site":"https://patentable.app","llms_txt":"https://patentable.app/llms.txt"},"generated_at":"2026-05-30T23:24:23.695Z"}