PatchPhones

In Germany, people listen to music or similar content for an average of 21 hours per week—much of it on the go. Headphones play a central role in this, especially Bluetooth models, which are becoming increasingly popular. However, these devices are often difficult to repair, with replacement parts being disproportionately expensive or simply unavailable. As a result, many headphones are discarded even in the case of minor defects, despite most components still being fully functional. Currently, small electronics are rarely recycled, leading to enormous amounts of valuable resources being prematurely lost from the value chain. PatchPhones are modular headphones designed for easy repair and flexible modification. The entire construction has been simplified as much as possible and reduced to a minimum number of individual parts. Each component can be easily disassembled, allowing for simple replacement in case of a defect. The cable connecting the two ear cups can be effortlessly threaded in and out of the headband, which also serves as a head cushion. This headband can be easily detached from the frame as well. The ear cushions are made of wool felt—a biodegradable material that can be easily disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. Since it consists of a single material, no material separation is required. Additionally, the cushions can be easily detached from the ear cups, washed, or replaced as needed.

All electronic components are available independently of specific manufacturers. This is made possible by a central interface based on the 2.54 mm pin spacing, a de facto standard in electronics. Compatible modules are available from numerous manufacturers, are cost-effective, and easy to integrate. This allows users to source spare parts effortlessly and repair their devices independently. As a result, a complete replacement of the headphones becomes unnecessary, and defective parts can be disposed of properly. At the same time, dependence on expensive, often monopolized replacement parts is eliminated. All electronic components are plug-in, meaning that—just like the rest of the headphones—no tools are required for repairs. A website connects users who can assist each other with troubleshooting, exchange or trade unneeded parts, and develop and share their own extensions and ideas. Additionally, all spare parts that are not independently available are offered separately. A collection of links makes it easier to find these components quickly and locate compatible parts. This creates an open ecosystem that facilitates repairs, conserves resources, and encourages further development of the headphones by the community.