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Media Advisory 11-011

Sound Safety

Researchers will demonstrate novel device with rock 'n' roll roots that may protect listeners from potential dangers of personal listening devices and hearing aids

Illustration of the ADEL(TM), which looks like a tiny ear-sealing balloon.

The ADEL(TM), which looks like a tiny ear-sealing balloon.


May 3, 2011

This material is available primarily for archival purposes. Telephone numbers or other contact information may be out of date; please see current contact information at media contacts.

Engineers investigating "listener fatigue"--the discomfort and pain some people experience while using in-ear headphones, hearing aids, and other devices that seal the ear canal from external sound--have found not only what they believe is the cause, but also a potential technology solution.

The researchers will present their findings on May 14th at the 2011 Audio Engineering Society conference in London, but lead author and audio pioneer Stephen Ambrose will be available for questions during an embargoed webcast at NSF on May 4, 2011 at 2 p.m. EDT.

Ambrose will describe the research and demonstrate the novel technology, and reporters can participate via phone and web.  Contact Josh Chamot (jchamot@nsf.gov) for username and password information.

Laboratory videos, testimonials, concert photos and other materials are available for preview on the Asius Technologies website.

-NSF-

Media Contacts
Joshua A. Chamot, NSF, (703) 292-7730, email: jchamot@nsf.gov

The U.S. National Science Foundation propels the nation forward by advancing fundamental research in all fields of science and engineering. NSF supports research and people by providing facilities, instruments and funding to support their ingenuity and sustain the U.S. as a global leader in research and innovation. With a fiscal year 2023 budget of $9.5 billion, NSF funds reach all 50 states through grants to nearly 2,000 colleges, universities and institutions. Each year, NSF receives more than 40,000 competitive proposals and makes about 11,000 new awards. Those awards include support for cooperative research with industry, Arctic and Antarctic research and operations, and U.S. participation in international scientific efforts.

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