Plantronics, Inc.
Mode controlled acoustic leak mechanism to optimize audio performance

Abstract:

Methods and apparatuses for earphones are disclosed. In one example, an earphone includes a speaker arranged to output an audible sound to an earphone user ear. The earphone includes an earphone housing having a first earphone housing opening arranged to output the audible sound into an ear canal of the earphone user. The earphone housing further includes a second earphone housing opening arranged to port to an ambient air ear exterior when the earphone is inserted into the earphone user ear. The earphone includes a valve positioned between the first earphone housing opening and the second earphone housing opening. The valve is operated in an open position during a telephony mode to provide an acoustic leakage pathway between the first earphone housing opening and the second earphone housing opening. The valve is operated in a closed position during a media mode to close the acoustic leakage pathway.