Ergonomic earpiece

Abstract

An earpiece that substantially lacks a lower lobe is disclosed. The earpiece has a generally arcuate rib having upper and lower ends. A generally vertical rib extends substantially between the upper and lower ends of the generally arcuate rib. A lobe is formed at the upper end of the arcuate rib. No lobe is similarly formed at the lower end of the arcuate rib. Eliminating the lower lobe mitigates discomfort during use and also reduces the likelihood of tissue damage and infection.

1 . An earpiece comprising:
 a generally arcuate rib having upper and lower ends;   a protrusion coupled between the upper and lower ends of the arcuate rib and configured to extend at least partially into an ear canal;   an acoustic tubing coupled substantially at the protrusion via a barbed fitting; and   wherein the arcuate rib and the lobe are configured to be captured by a conchae of an ear to secure the protrusion and at least a portion of the acoustic tubing to or within the ear.