Method and device for in ear canal echo suppression

#The present invention pertains to sound reproduction, sound recording, audio communications and hearing protection using earphone devices designed to provide variable acoustical isolation from ambient sounds while being able to audition both environmental and desired audio stimuli. Particularly, the present invention describes a method and device for suppressing echo in an ear-canal when capturing a user's voice when using an ambient sound microphone and an ear canal microphone.

#People use headsets or earpieces primarily for voice communications and music listening enjoyment. A headset or earpiece generally includes a microphone and a speaker for allowing the user to speak and listen. An ambient sound microphone mounted on the earpiece can capture ambient sounds in the environment; sounds that can include the user's voice. An ear canal microphone mounted internally on the earpiece can capture voice resonant within the ear canal; sounds generated when the user is speaking.

#An earpiece that provides sufficient occlusion can utilize both the ambient sound microphone and the ear canal microphone to enhance the user's voice. An ear canal receiver mounted internal to the ear canal can loopback sound captured at the ambient sound microphone or the ear canal microphone to allow the user to listen to captured sound. If the earpiece is however not properly sealed within the ear canal, the ambient sounds can leak through into the ear canal and create an echo feedback condition with the ear canal microphone and ear canal receiver. In such cases, the feedback loop can generate an annoying “howling” sound that degrades the quality of the voice communication and listening experience.

#FIG. 1 is a pictorial diagram of an earpiece in accordance with an exemplary embodiment;

#FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the earpiece in accordance with an exemplary embodiment;

#FIG. 3 is a block diagram for an acoustic management module in accordance with an exemplary embodiment;

#The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.

#Processes, techniques, apparatus, and materials as known by one of ordinary skill in the relevant art may not be discussed in detail but are intended to be part of the enabling description where appropriate, for example the fabrication and use of transducers.

#In all of the examples illustrated and discussed herein, any specific values, for example the sound pressure level change, should be interpreted to be illustrative only and non-limiting. Thus, other examples of the exemplary embodiments could have different values.