History and development of hearing protection devices Free

Military need has spurred the invention of hearing protector since the times of Greek mythology. Earplugs were patented in 1864 and canal caps attached to an adjustable headband in 1884 as protection for soldiers and sailors. Attempts to limit gunfire noise by mechanical devices commenced in 1905, leading to Mallock‐Armstrong plugs for use in the First World War. Disposable earplugs were patented in 1914 also. Systematic development of earplugs for forces during the Second World War culminated in the V‐51R. Leather flaps over the ears were supposed to protect the crews of military aircraft. The increased noise of jet engines led to the production of recognizable earmuffs, although the stiffness of the cushions required a strong headband to ensure a seal against the head. This caused a vicelike grip. The problem was overcome with the development of fluid‐filled cushions by Shaw in 1954. Progress has continued towards comfort and acceptability, with glass‐down appearing in the late 1950's, conformable foam plugs in the 1970's, and nonlinear electronic systems incorporated into muffs in the 1980's.