Frequency-selective tunable attenuation earplug
This technology is a tunable earplug that uses a fluid-filled balloon system to block sound at specific frequencies rather than just muffling everything equally. A small reservoir of fluid connects to a flexible tip that sits in the ear canal; by adjusting the fluid type or pressure through a valve, the amount of noise blocked at different pitches can be dialed up or down. This means a worker could reduce dangerous low-frequency machinery noise while still hearing voices, or a musician could protect their hearing without losing the full sound of the performance. Fixed-attenuation versions using water, gels, or suspended particles are also described for simpler, lower-cost applications.
What you could build
A premium adjustable earplug for industrial workers, musicians, and military personnel where frequency-selective hearing protection is sold as a hardware device with refillable or pressure-adjustable cartridges; buyers include PPE distributors, defense contractors, and consumer audio brands.
Who in Virginia should care
Defense contractors and military bases in Virginia (e.g., around Norfolk, Quantico, or the Pentagon corridor) that procure hearing protection for high-noise environments would be natural early customers or licensing partners.
Readiness: Lab validated
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- John Patrick Keady, John G. Casali, Kichol Lee
- Granted
- October 8, 2013
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 8550206
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.