Earphone discomfort and poor fit remain widespread problems despite advances in audio technology. This article introduces the Ear Space Reference (ESR) model, an anthropometry-based framework that helps designers create better-fitting earphones. We captured 3D ear anatomy data from volunteers, mapped key landmarks onto a standardized grid, and built depth profiles to represent ear shapes quantitatively. Using this reference, we designed and 3D-printed prototype earphones that lock naturally into the ear’s contours. Pilot testing with users showed improved stability during movement and greater comfort. The ESR model offers designers a methodology for improved anatomy-driven earphone design, and the averaged coordinate dataset is made publicly available to support future research and product development.
Kannur et al. (Wed,) studied this question.