DESIGN NAME: BuddyPhones
PRIMARY FUNCTION: Kids Headphones
INSPIRATION: Inspired by a friend looking for durable headphones for his kids, we created volume limiting headphones that keep noise levels down to WHOs standards. Realizing there were few safe options on the market for kids, we decided to give parents a peace of mind and provide a safe sound solution with the option of multiple kids sharing one device. Designed to be used by kids of all ages, anytime, anywhere. It is a viable choice for children with sensitive hearing, attention deficits and autism. Approved by parents, enjoyed by kids.
UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION: BuddyPhones is a safe sound solution for kids limiting volume at 85db, the recommended level by the World Health Organization. Available in Standard and Foldable Travel versions, they are durable, adjustable, with soft anti allergenic ear pads for maximum comfort and a detachable flat cable designed for less entanglement. The BuddyCable audio splitter allows up to 4 kids to share one device. Colourful DIY stickers and built in microphone added for fun and creativity. Travel version is foldable and comes in a travel bag.
OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION: BuddyPhones are about sharing and safety and the design makes them easy to use. Plug into a host device using 3.5mm jack cable, circuitry caps sound at 85db, giving parents a peace of mind not having to monitor the volume. With a flat, detachable BuddyCable system to minimize entanglement and chocking hazard, the built in audio splitter allows up to 4 headphones to connect to one device so friends can join the fun. Customisable with included colourful stickers and blank ones so kids can design their own.
PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION: From January 2015 to February 2016, Hong Kong
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PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY: With the always on circuitry limiting volume to 85db, we wanted to design safe headphones for kids. BuddyPhones are made from durable, robust materials, ABS housing and headband of specially calibrated polyproplene that bends in every direction. A detachable cable to minimize choking and entanglement risk as it plugs out of the headphones if pulled. Our patented BuddyCable system allows friends to share, from either headphones side or from the device side.
SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES: DRIVER UNIT 30mm Neodyminum. IMPEDANCE 32oHM. SENSITIVITY 85 at 1mW 1kHz. FREQUENCY 20 to 20kHz CORD 0.8m. PLUG Gold Pated 3.5mm Standard Version WEIGHT 76g. DIMENSION Width 130 x 55mm x Height 150mm Travel Version. WEIGHT 93g. DIMENSION Unfolded, Width 165 x 55mm x Height 150mm. Folded Width 100 x 55mm x Height 150mm. FEATURES For Safe Kids Listening, Durable ABS/PP Housing, Anti-Allergic Earpads, In Line Microphone w.answering button, BuddyCable for sharing Colouring Sticker x5, Decorative Sticker x5.
TAGS: Headphones, Kids, Safety, Sharing, Kidsheadphones, Volumelimiting, Buddyphones, Children, Onanoff
RESEARCH ABSTRACT: Researching the market we realised there was a lack of high quality volume limiting headphones for kids. We set out to create ones that were durable, safe and comfortable to use. After prototype we gave headphones to 30 kids aged 3 to 13, for testing. The results from first test were positive, kids were happy to be able to share their device and liked the colourful design. Parents were pleased with the sound being capped at 85db, and expressed gratification for allowing their kids to share one device and minimizing fighting.
CHALLENGE: Achieving the durability we wanted and reach our standard of safety. After first testing we worked with acoustic experts and local audiologists to get the best quality sound. Based on feedback the PU cushioning was made anti-allergic for kids sensitive skin and bendy headbands less likely to snap if they are sat on, dropped or twisted. It took time to get the formula right, plastic had to be strong but not so brittle it would break. Soft and flexible to withstand pulling yet sturdy enough to hold its shape.
ADDED DATE: 2016-02-25 03:27:50
TEAM MEMBERS (1) :
IMAGE CREDITS: Petur Hannes Olafsson, 2015.
PATENTS/COPYRIGHTS: CN103026731
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