DESIGN NAME: BuddyPhones WAVE
PRIMARY FUNCTION: Wireless Headphones
INSPIRATION: It’s worrying that 12.5% of kids between the ages of 6-19 have some form of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) as smart devices are more frequently used in daily life. The BuddyPhones WAVE was developed as the most advanced and durable kids headphones to combat NIHL by combining wireless freedom, waterproof protection and adjustable volume-limiting listening settings. Inspired to safely address kids diverse listening needs, the WAVE is a robust tool for both recreational and educational purposes.
UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The BuddyPhones Wave is the world’s first waterproof and wireless volume-limiting kids headphones. Instead of just one setting that caps volume, the Wave offers four distinct listening settings that can be changed according to age or surroundings- Toddler Mode (75dB), Kids Mode (85dB), Travel Mode (94dB), and StudyMode. We introduce StudyMode as a pioneering setting that optimizes vocals to help kids focus when learning and enhances speech for stronger communication and language development.
OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION: The BuddyPhones Wave can be used wirelessly for more than 24 hours. When the battery runs out, or if preferred, it comes with a backup BuddyCable for wired listening. The cable also allows multiple listeners to share one device. To change between listening settings, users hold two fingers down on the volume buttons and wait for flashing LED lights to indicate the change in settings. The unique settings perform better than standard kids headphones by catering to specific surroundings or ages.
PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION: The project started in September 2016 and finished in October 2017. Designs were initiated in Iceland, market research in the USA, product testing and manufacturing in China, and business development based out of Hong Kong.
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PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY: As part of our core values, the BuddyPhones Wave is made with only kid-safe materials like phthalate-free and BPA-free plastics, anti-allergic cushions, anti-pinch foldable joints and specially calibrated bendable polypropylene. The waterproofing IP67 process is done through mechanical design for two levels of defense against water damage. We certify our products in first-tier global testing labs to ensure the Wave complies with key safety and environmental standards like ROHS, REACH and PROP65.
SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES: Driver unit 40mm. Impedance 32oHM. Sensitivity 32oHM75-85-94 +/- 3dB @1mW 1kHz. Frequency 20-20kHz. Cord 0.8m. Plug Gold Plated 3.5mm. Battery Output 3.7V/450mA. Waterproof: IP67. Weight 145g. Dimension Unfolded 160mm height x 150mm width, 67mm depth; Folded 90mm height x 150mm width, 67mm depth. Features 3 Safe Sound Levels; LED Display lights; Adjustable + Foldable Headband; Durable ABS PP Housing; Anti-Allergic Earpads; In-Line Mic w/ answering button; Charging cord; BuddyCable for sharing.
TAGS: kids headphones, education, volume-limiting, waterproof, safe audio
RESEARCH ABSTRACT: We devote R&D exclusively to making headphones that address kids’ listening needs from their perspective, not as a simplified version of adult products. We identified a market gap for wireless volume-safe headphones with added waterproof protection to maximise durability against water damage. We tested with kids and parents to ensure we introduced unique features that improve listening experiences for kids in a fun way, raise awareness about hearing loss and teach safe listening habits.
CHALLENGE: We had to waterproof wireless kids headphones to protect audio mechanics with IP67 certification. To extend listening options beyond just one volume setting, we built in technology for four settings with a user-friendly way to change between them. For our pioneering StudyMode, we overcame challenges of identifying correct EQ adjustments that enhance vocals without sacrificing overall listening experience. We introduced all new features at an affordable cost and ahead of the rest of the market.
ADDED DATE: 2018-02-20 06:52:09
TEAM MEMBERS (1) :
IMAGE CREDITS: Petur Olafsson - Onanoff, 2017.
PATENTS/COPYRIGHTS: CN103026731
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