Abstract A headphone which is usable particularly along with a plurality of other headphones includes a transducer which is connected through a switch to the source of current. The switch provides a means for automatically turning the transducer either on or off. In one embodiment the switch includes a mercury switch which when oriented in an inactive or nonoperative position, ensures that the transducer is turned off and in another position in which operation normally takes place, will ensure that the transducer is turned on. Another embodiment includes a spring operated switch control which is operated when the earphone, for example attached to a headband, is positioned on the head of a user. Such a switch may be spring actuated or may include a member which is displaceable when the resilient cushion for the earpiece of the earphone is compressed.
A headphone construction particularly for language school and interpreter installations, comprising an earphone housing having an open ear facing end, a cushion affixed to said housing and extending outwardly around the open end, an electroacoustic transducer in said housing, an electrical current supply connected to said transducer and having an interrupter switch, said switch having means for disconnecting electrical current supply to said electroacoustic transducer and having first and second contact which are normally opened but which are engageable to actuate said circuit, a spring between said transducer and one of said contacts holding said transducer against said cushion and being displaceable by compression Of said cushion when it is engaged with a user''s ear to urge said transducer against said spring and to cause said spring to move one of said contacts to engage the other of said contacts, and a head band on said housing for biasing said housing against a person''s ear.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
155 words
A headphone construction particularly for language school and interpreter installations, comprising an earphone housing having an open ear facing end, a cushion affixed to said housing and extending outwardly around the open end, an electroacoustic transducer in said housing, an electrical current supply connected to said transducer and having an interrupter switch, said switch having means for disconnecting electrical current supply to said electroacoustic transducer and having first and second contact which are normally opened but which are engageable to actuate said circuit, a spring between said transducer and one of said contacts holding said transducer against said cushion and being displaceable by compression Of said cushion when it is engaged with a user''s ear to urge said transducer against said spring and to cause said spring to move one of said contacts to engage the other of said contacts, and a head band on said housing for biasing said housing against a person''s ear.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
17 words
A headphone according to claim 1, wherein said switch comprises a microswitch, said microswitch containing said spring.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
26 words
A headphone according to claim 1, including a diaphragm secured to the inside of said cushion around said opening of said housing and carrying said transducer.