Any object that is partially or completely blocking the human ear canal will result in an occlusion effect and cause different degrees of discomfort for the person – an example of this could be putting devices into the ear canal such as ear plugs or in-earphones.

The effect is that the person hears the lower sound frequencies as louder and at the same time alters the sound impression of noises coming from one`s own body.

A feasible solution to overcome this, could be an intermediate position of the earphone in the ear canal combined with a vent. This will release the ”trapped” sound pressure inside the canal pressing the ear drum and the occlusion effect will diminish or even disappear.

Another solution for preventing the occlusion effect when wearing a portable sound device is to assure a very large amount of free air in front of the eardrum/ear canal/Pinna.

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