FreeHand is an ultra-light, hands-free headset developed for computer, audio and telephony applications. It is designed to slip on and off the ear quickly and comfortably while providing users the freedom to continue working at a PC, taking notes, or reviewing documents during communications lasting from a few minutes to several hours at a time.

This is a concha-based headset, meaning that the earbud nests in the shallow basin of the inner ear, the "concha", located at the opening of the ear canal.

At the earliest stages of development, the client had commissioned an extensive human factors study to understand the biomechanical and anthropometric aspects of the human ear.

We applied this data and conducted our own informal research, using very preliminary models, to strictly evaluate comfort, form, fit and balance. Through this exercise we learned that the concha is extremely sensitive and that the threshold for irritation, pressure and fatigue is quite low. So we knew that comfort in the concha area of the headset was a critical factor. We also learned that weight, balance and pivot point were key concerns, given that the headset needed to accommodate use in either ear and to maximize the performance of the voice tube.

Based on the results of early testing, we worked through a sequence of traditional, three dimensional modeling in conjunction with computer based 3D modeling using ALIAS and Pro/Engineer software. Models were produced for focus group testing and the most promising selected for further development. The parallel modeling path (using traditional and computer based techniques) allowed us to create an highly ergonomic earbud whose design is preserved in production since parts are made directly from the ProEngineer files.

This headset mounts at the concha without additional stabilizing hardware, headbands or cords. To use the product, the user simply releases the headset from the hanger accessory and places the device in the ear, knowing intuitively where to place the earbud. Hands are free to continue working. The product offers exceptional comfort for extended wearing periods; a noise canceling microphone to significantly reduce unwanted noise; and a lightweight, elegant appearance to complement the high tech environments in which it is used.