EP1659826A2 - Hearing-aid and corresponding method for inserting the hearing aid - Google Patents

Hearing-aid and corresponding method for inserting the hearing aid Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1659826A2
EP1659826A2 EP05110691A EP05110691A EP1659826A2 EP 1659826 A2 EP1659826 A2 EP 1659826A2 EP 05110691 A EP05110691 A EP 05110691A EP 05110691 A EP05110691 A EP 05110691A EP 1659826 A2 EP1659826 A2 EP 1659826A2
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
ear part
ear
ido
hearing aid
behind
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Granted
Application number
EP05110691A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1659826B1 (en
EP1659826A3 (en
Inventor
Eghart Fischer
Uwe Rass
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Sivantos GmbH
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Siemens Audioligische Technik GmbH
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Publication of EP1659826A3 publication Critical patent/EP1659826A3/en
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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
    • H04R25/02—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception adapted to be supported entirely by ear
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R2225/00—Details of deaf aids covered by H04R25/00, not provided for in any of its subgroups
    • H04R2225/021—Behind the ear [BTE] hearing aids
    • H04R2225/0213—Constructional details of earhooks, e.g. shape, material

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a hearing aid having a behind-the-ear (BTE) part, an in-the-ear part (ITO), and a connecting member including the behind-the-ear part with the in-the-ear Part connects. Moreover, the present invention relates to a corresponding method for inserting the hearing device in or on an ear.
  • BTE behind-the-ear
  • ITO in-the-ear part
  • connecting member including the behind-the-ear part with the in-the-ear Part connects.
  • the present invention relates to a corresponding method for inserting the hearing device in or on an ear.
  • Hearing aids which are composed of an IdO part, which is usually designed as a handset, and a BTE part, have some advantages over pure BTE or ITE hearing aids.
  • One hand holds the BTE part and the other introduces the ITE part into the ear canal.
  • hearing aid wearers In addition, it can be uncomfortable to push yourself into the ear of a listener. Therefore, hearing aid wearers often seek an acoustician for this procedure, but this reduces the acceptance of such hearing aids.
  • the receiver must be placed as freely as possible in the ear or ear canal. This usually requires additional measures to keep the ITE part in place. Another disadvantage with open supply is that the listener must sit relatively loosely in the ear canal. There is always the danger that Unintentionally, the receiver could be inserted too deeply into the ear canal or slip out of the ear canal.
  • the document DE 44 26 967 A1 relates to a hearing aid with an earmold and a suspension over the ear connecting element between a arranged behind the ear while wearing and the earmold.
  • the connecting element consists of a flexible, each remaining in its bending position element.
  • a hearing aid which has a plastic tube with a metal wire for sound conduction.
  • the insertion of the metal wire into the plastic tube facilitates the insertion and removal of the hearing device for a user.
  • electroacoustic transducer for hearing aids for airborne sound radiation in the external auditory canal is described in the document DE 198 58 399 C2.
  • the electroacoustic transducer on all sides hermetically gas-tight housing, wherein the wall is designed as a bendable membrane, which is excited by a converter drive unit to bending vibrations, which cause the airborne sound radiation outside the transducer housing.
  • the object of the present invention is therefore to facilitate the insertion of a hearing aid, which consists of a BTE part and an ITE part, while ensuring sufficient fixation of the ITE part.
  • a corresponding method for inserting a hearing aid to be proposed.
  • this object is achieved by a hearing aid having a behind-the-ear part, an in-the-ear part and a connecting element which connects the behind-the-ear part to the in-the-ear part, wherein the connecting element consists of a memory material, which ensures a stable, predetermined final shape of the connecting element (V), so that the connecting element (V) merges again after bending into the final shape.
  • the invention provides a hearing aid with a behind-the-ear part, an in-the-ear part and a connecting element which connects the behind-the-ear part with the in-the-ear part, wherein the Connecting element has a spring component, which presses the in-the-ear part in an ear-worn state of the hearing aid, which does not yet correspond to the end position in the ear canal, so that the in-the-ear part automatically deeper into the ear canal slips.
  • the invention provides a method for inserting a hearing device, comprising a behind-the-ear part, an in-the-ear part and a rigid connecting element, connecting the behind-the-ear part to the in-the-ear part, by attaching the in-the-ear part to an ear canal opening, turning the entire hearing device around the auditory canal axis while screwing in the in-ear Part in the ear canal and fixing the behind-the-ear part behind the pinna, wherein the in-the-ear part passes over a subsequent change in shape of the connecting element in a stable end position.
  • such a hearing aid with a rigid connecting element can grip well and thus also be used well.
  • the ITE part is sufficiently fixed in the inserted state of the hearing aid.
  • the ITE part, the BTE part and / or the connecting element is individually adapted to the anatomy of the hearing aid wearer. This results on the one hand a high level of comfort and on the other a firm fit of the hearing aid. In addition, there is then no risk of injury that the eardrum is damaged when inserted too deep the ITE part.
  • the ITE part has an envelope which has a helical or helical depression or increase in circumference. Due to the screw or screw shape, the IdO part can be screwed into the auditory canal by a rotary movement. If an open supply is desired, the helical or helical recess for a connection channel past the hearing aid.
  • the IdO part may consist of a silicone-like material. On the one hand this material is comfortable to wear and on the other hand it reduces the risk of slipping.
  • the hearing aid shown in the FIG consists of a BTE part and an ITE part.
  • the IdO part has a handset in the present case.
  • Both parts, the BTE part and the ITE part are connected to a rigid connecting element V.
  • This connecting element V is used to transmit electrical signals from the BTE part to the receiver of the ITE part.
  • it serves to fix the hearing device on the auricle of the hearing aid wearer. But it also serves to insert the ITE part into the ear canal, since the ITE part can be easily guided or rotated by the rigid connecting element V.
  • the connecting element V has as a core, for example, a wire and this is surrounded together with an electrical connection line with a plastic.
  • the connecting element V is basically rigid and would be damaged in a deformation. It can be deformed, for example, only warm. In its mechanical properties, this connecting element V thus corresponds, for example, to an eyeglass temple.
  • the shape of the ITE part is conveniently adapted to the ear canal of the hearing aid wearer exactly.
  • the BTE part should also be exactly aligned with the space behind the ear.
  • the connecting element V can be adapted in length and shape to the anatomy of the auricle of the hearing device wearer. This is not just an exact fit of the hearing aid but also specifies the depth with which the ITE part can be inserted into the ear canal.
  • the ITE part shown in FIG has at its periphery a helical, helical, groove-like depression N. This serves on the one hand to screw the ITE part by a rotational movement in the ear canal. On the other hand, the recess or groove N serves to ensure a channel past the ITE part, so that an open supply can be ensured. According to the arrows shown in the FIG thus a sound and air path on the ITE part is given over.
  • the IdO part consists of a soft, flexible, skin-friendly material, in particular a silicone-like material is suitable for this purpose.
  • the insertion process of such a hearing aid is simple and comfortable for the hearing aid wearer and can be sketched as follows:
  • the overall rigid hearing aid can with one hand, z. B. at the bend of the rigid connection between BTE and ITE part held.
  • the IdO part is first placed in such a way in the ear or pushed so deep that it does not fall out. Normally, gravity will cause the BTE part to hang down first.
  • the second part of the insertion process is now merely to fold the hearing aid in a kind of rotational movement behind the ear. During this rotational movement, the helical part of the IdO screws further into the auditory canal. This results in a kind of locking mechanism which is coupled to the insertion process. This insertion into the auditory canal is perceived as more pleasant and the "self-in-ear-pressing" can be omitted.
  • the assurance that the listener is not inserted too far into the ear canal is important to the hearing aid wearer and represents a not to be underestimated comfort factor when inserting.
  • the core of the connecting element V consists of a memory material. Therefore, after bending, the connecting element V again assumes a predetermined stable end shape. This can now be exploited in connection with the helical depressions N or elevations of the ITE part. Namely, the connecting element V is twisted before insertion, it slowly returns to the stable final shape and rotates while the ITE part against the BTE part. This turning back can now be used for screwing the ITE part into the ear canal. This means that the IdO part automatically rotates into the ear when the BTE part is fixed behind the pinna.
  • the connecting element V comprises a spring.
  • the resilient connecting element V is first given a basic shape when adapting to the hearing aid wearer.
  • the ITE part is initially not in its final position in the ear canal, but the resilient connecting element is stretched.
  • the spring force of the connecting element V it is gradually pushed deeper into the ear canal. In particular, it can, for example, during chewing movements of the hearing aid wearer slide deeper into the ear canal, so that it reaches its final position after a short time.
  • the presented embodiments of the hearing aid according to the invention thus ensure easy insertion. In addition, they ensure a firm and deep seat of the ITE part in the ear canal. Besides, due to the special design of the ITE part a ventilation for open supply are guaranteed.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Neurosurgery (AREA)
  • Otolaryngology (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Acoustics & Sound (AREA)
  • Signal Processing (AREA)
  • Headphones And Earphones (AREA)
  • Fittings On The Vehicle Exterior For Carrying Loads, And Devices For Holding Or Mounting Articles (AREA)

Abstract

Hearing aid has a section (HdO) which fits behind the ear and an earpiece (IdO). These are linked by a connector (V) which is made from a shape memory material so that it reassumes the desired shape if it is bent. Independent claims are included for: (A) a hearing aid as described in which the connector contains a spring component which presses the earpiece against the ear; and (B) a method for inserting the hearing aid.

Description

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft ein Hörgerät mit einem Hinter-dem-Ohr-Teil (HdO), einem In-dem-Ohr-Teil (IdO) und einem Verbindungselement, das das Hinter-dem-Ohr-Teil mit dem In-dem-Ohr-Teil verbindet. Darüber hinaus betrifft die vorliegende Erfindung ein entsprechendes Verfahren zum Einsetzen des Hörgeräts in bzw. an ein Ohr.The present invention relates to a hearing aid having a behind-the-ear (BTE) part, an in-the-ear part (ITO), and a connecting member including the behind-the-ear part with the in-the-ear Part connects. Moreover, the present invention relates to a corresponding method for inserting the hearing device in or on an ear.

Hörgeräte, die aus einem IdO-Teil, das meist als Hörer ausgebildet ist, und einem HdO-Teil zusammengesetzt sind, besitzen gegenüber reinen HdO- oder IdO-Hörgeräten einige Vorteile. Ein weit verbreitetes Problem bei dieser Bauform ist jedoch, dass sich das IdO-Teil nur sehr schwierig und umständlich tief im Gehörgang platzieren lässt. Es ist meist durch eine sehr flexible, dünne, kabelartige Verbindung mit dem HdO-Teil verbunden, so dass es auch schwierig greifbar ist. Meist sind gleichzeitig beide Hände nötig, um das Hörgerät richtig zu platzieren, was die motorischen Fähigkeiten vieler älterer Hörgeräteträger überfordert. Dabei hält eine Hand den HdO-Teil und die andere führt den IdO-Teil in den Gehörgang ein.Hearing aids, which are composed of an IdO part, which is usually designed as a handset, and a BTE part, have some advantages over pure BTE or ITE hearing aids. A widespread problem with this design, however, is that the ITE part can be very difficult and cumbersome to place deep in the ear canal. It is usually connected by a very flexible, thin, cable-like connection to the BTE part, so that it is difficult to grasp. Usually both hands are needed at the same time to place the hearing aid correctly, which overstrains the motor skills of many older hearing aid users. One hand holds the BTE part and the other introduces the ITE part into the ear canal.

Darüber hinaus kann es unangenehm sein, sich selbst einen Hörer tief ins Ohr hineinzudrücken. Daher suchen Hörgeräteträger für diese Prozedur oftmals einen Akustiker auf, was jedoch die Akzeptanz derartiger Hörgeräte reduziert.In addition, it can be uncomfortable to push yourself into the ear of a listener. Therefore, hearing aid wearers often seek an acoustician for this procedure, but this reduces the acceptance of such hearing aids.

Ist eine offene Versorgung gewünscht, so muss der Hörer möglichst frei im Ohr bzw. Gehörgang platziert werden. Hierzu sind meist zusätzliche Maßnahmen erforderlich, um das IdO-Teil an seiner Position zu halten. Ein weiterer Nachteil bei offener Versorgung ist, dass der Hörer relativ locker im Gehörgang sitzen muss. Dadurch besteht stets die Gefahr, dass der Hörer unabsichtlich zu tief in den Gehörgang eingeführt werden könnte oder aber aus dem Gehörgang herausrutscht.If an open supply is desired, the receiver must be placed as freely as possible in the ear or ear canal. This usually requires additional measures to keep the ITE part in place. Another disadvantage with open supply is that the listener must sit relatively loosely in the ear canal. There is always the danger that Unintentionally, the receiver could be inserted too deeply into the ear canal or slip out of the ear canal.

Für eine offene Versorgung wurden daher Fixier-Drähtchen vorgeschlagen, die in Rillen der Ohrmuschel eingelegt werden und so die IdO-Teile entsprechend in Position halten. Für geschlossene Versorgung wurden flexible "Oliven" vorgeschlagen, die das IdO-Teil durch Friktion und Anpressdruck im Gehörgang halten.For an open supply therefore fixing wires were proposed, which are inserted into grooves of the auricle and thus keep the ITE parts in position accordingly. For closed supply flexible "olives" have been proposed, which hold the ITE part by friction and pressure in the ear canal.

Die Druckschrift DE 44 26 967 A1 betrifft ein Hörgerät mit einem Ohrpassstück und einem über dem Ohr aufhängbaren Verbindungselement zwischen einem beim Tragen hinter dem Ohr angeordneten Gehäuse und dem Ohrpassstück. Das Verbindungselement besteht aus einem flexiblen, jeweils in seiner Biegestellung verbleibenden Element.The document DE 44 26 967 A1 relates to a hearing aid with an earmold and a suspension over the ear connecting element between a arranged behind the ear while wearing and the earmold. The connecting element consists of a flexible, each remaining in its bending position element.

In der Druckschrift DE 78 30 156 U1 ist ein Hörgerät beschrieben, welches zur Schallleitung einen Kunststoffschlauch mit einem Metalldraht aufweist. Durch die Einfügung des Metalldrahts in den Kunststoffschlauch soll das Einführen und Herausnehmen des Hörgeräts für einen Benutzer erleichtert werden.In the document DE 78 30 156 U1 a hearing aid is described, which has a plastic tube with a metal wire for sound conduction. The insertion of the metal wire into the plastic tube facilitates the insertion and removal of the hearing device for a user.

Ein Elektroakustischer Wandler für Hörgeräte zur Luftschallabstrahlung in den äußeren Gehörgang ist in der Druckschrift DE 198 58 399 C2 beschrieben. Erfindungsgemäß weist der Elektroakustische Wandler ein allseitig hermetisch gasdichtes Gehäuse auf, wobei die Wandung als biegefähige Membran ausgeführt ist, die von einer Wandler-Antriebseinheit zu Biegeschwingungen angeregt wird, welche die Luftschallabstrahlung außerhalb des Wandlergehäuses bewirken.An electroacoustic transducer for hearing aids for airborne sound radiation in the external auditory canal is described in the document DE 198 58 399 C2. According to the invention, the electroacoustic transducer on all sides hermetically gas-tight housing, wherein the wall is designed as a bendable membrane, which is excited by a converter drive unit to bending vibrations, which cause the airborne sound radiation outside the transducer housing.

In der Druckschrift EP 1 463 375 A2 wird vorgeschlagen, in die Schale eines Hörgerätes den akustischen Leiter zum Eingang eines akustisch/elektrischen oder eines elektrisch/akustischen Wandlers zu integrieren. Dies ermöglicht es, den Wandler und den akustischen Leiter so in die O-toplastik zu integrieren, dass dem Platzangebot und den akustischen Verhältnissen optimal Rechnung getragen wird.In the document EP 1 463 375 A2 it is proposed to integrate into the shell of a hearing device the acoustic conductor to the input of an acoustic / electrical or an electrical / acoustic transducer. this makes possible to integrate the transducer and the acoustic conductor into the O-toplastic in such a way that the available space and the acoustic conditions are optimally taken into account.

Trotz des bisher beschriebenen Stands der Technik wird das Einsetzen eines Hörgeräts, welches aus einem HdO-Teil und einem IdO-Teil besteht, für einen Benutzer häufig als schwierig und unangenehm empfunden.Despite the state of the art described so far, the use of a hearing aid consisting of a BTE part and an ITE part is often perceived as difficult and unpleasant for a user.

Die Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung besteht somit darin, das Einsetzen eines Hörgeräts, das aus einem HdO-Teil und einem IdO-Teil besteht, zu erleichtern und gleichzeitig für ausreichende Fixierung des IdO-Teils zu sorgen. Außerdem soll ein entsprechendes Verfahren zum Einsetzen eines Hörgeräts vorgeschlagen werden.The object of the present invention is therefore to facilitate the insertion of a hearing aid, which consists of a BTE part and an ITE part, while ensuring sufficient fixation of the ITE part. In addition, a corresponding method for inserting a hearing aid to be proposed.

Erfindungsgemäß wird diese Aufgabe gelöst durch ein Hörgerät mit einem Hinter-dem-Ohr-Teil, einem In-dem-Ohr-Teil und einem Verbindungselement, das das Hinter-dem-Ohr-Teil mit dem In-dem-Ohr-Teil verbindet, wobei das Verbindungselement aus einem Memorymaterial besteht, das eine stabile, vorgegebene Endform des Verbindungselements (V) gewährleistet, so dass das Verbindungselement (V) nach einem Verbiegen wieder in die Endform übergeht.According to the invention, this object is achieved by a hearing aid having a behind-the-ear part, an in-the-ear part and a connecting element which connects the behind-the-ear part to the in-the-ear part, wherein the connecting element consists of a memory material, which ensures a stable, predetermined final shape of the connecting element (V), so that the connecting element (V) merges again after bending into the final shape.

Ferner ist erfindungsgemäß vorgesehen ein Hörgerät mit einem Hinter-dem-Ohr-Teil, einem In-dem-Ohr-Teil und einem Verbindungselement, das das Hinter-dem-Ohr-Teil mit dem In-dem-Ohr-Teil verbindet, wobei das Verbindungselement eine Federkomponente aufweist, die das In-dem-Ohr-Teil in einem am Ohr getragenen Zustand des Hörgeräts, welcher noch nicht der Endposition entspricht, in den Gehörgang drückt, so dass das In-dem-Ohr-Teil automatisch tiefer in den Gehörgang rutscht.Furthermore, the invention provides a hearing aid with a behind-the-ear part, an in-the-ear part and a connecting element which connects the behind-the-ear part with the in-the-ear part, wherein the Connecting element has a spring component, which presses the in-the-ear part in an ear-worn state of the hearing aid, which does not yet correspond to the end position in the ear canal, so that the in-the-ear part automatically deeper into the ear canal slips.

Außerdem wird erfindungsgemäß bereitgestellt ein Verfahren zum Einsetzen eines Hörgeräts bestehend aus einem Hinter-dem-Ohr-Teil, einem In-dem-Ohr-Teil und einem starren Verbindungselement, das das Hinter-dem-Ohr-Teil mit dem In-dem-Ohr-Teil verbindet, durch Ansetzen des In-dem-Ohr-Teils an eine Gehörgangsöffnung, Drehen des gesamten Hörgeräts um die Gehörgangsachse unter Einschrauben des In-dem-Ohr-Teils in den Gehörgang und Fixieren des Hinter-dem-Ohr-Teils hinter der Ohrmuschel, wobei das In-dem-Ohr-Teil über eine nachfolgende Formveränderung des Verbindungselements in eine stabile Endposition übergeht.In addition, the invention provides a method for inserting a hearing device, comprising a behind-the-ear part, an in-the-ear part and a rigid connecting element, connecting the behind-the-ear part to the in-the-ear part, by attaching the in-the-ear part to an ear canal opening, turning the entire hearing device around the auditory canal axis while screwing in the in-ear Part in the ear canal and fixing the behind-the-ear part behind the pinna, wherein the in-the-ear part passes over a subsequent change in shape of the connecting element in a stable end position.

Auf diese Weise ist ein automatisches Selbstpositionieren des In-dem-Ohr-Teils möglich.
Vorteilhafterweise lässt sich ein derartiges Hörgerät mit starrem Verbindungselement gut greifen und somit auch gut einsetzen. Außerdem ist das IdO-Teil im eingesetzten Zustand des Hörgeräts ausreichend fixiert.In this way, an automatic self-positioning of the in-the-ear part is possible.
Advantageously, such a hearing aid with a rigid connecting element can grip well and thus also be used well. In addition, the ITE part is sufficiently fixed in the inserted state of the hearing aid.

Vorzugsweise ist das IdO-Teil, das HdO-Teil und/oder das Verbindungselement an die Anatomie des Hörgeräteträgers individuell angepasst. Dadurch ergibt sich zum einen ein hoher Tragekomfort und zum anderen ein fester Sitz des Hörgeräts. Außerdem besteht dann nicht das Verletzungsrisiko, dass das Trommelfell beim zu tiefen Einsetzen des IdO-Teils beschädigt wird.Preferably, the ITE part, the BTE part and / or the connecting element is individually adapted to the anatomy of the hearing aid wearer. This results on the one hand a high level of comfort and on the other a firm fit of the hearing aid. In addition, there is then no risk of injury that the eardrum is damaged when inserted too deep the ITE part.

Bei einer besonderen Weiterbildung des erfindungsgemäßen Hörgeräts besitzt das IdO-Teil eine Umhüllung, die eine schraubenförmige oder schneckenförmige Vertiefung oder Erhöhung am Umfang aufweist. Durch die Schrauben- bzw. Schneckenform lässt sich das IdO-Teil in den Gehörgang durch eine Drehbewegung einschrauben. Ist eine offene Versorgung gewünscht, so sorgt die schraubenförmige bzw. schneckenförmige Vertiefung für einen Verbindungskanal am Hörgerät vorbei.In a particular embodiment of the hearing aid according to the invention, the ITE part has an envelope which has a helical or helical depression or increase in circumference. Due to the screw or screw shape, the IdO part can be screwed into the auditory canal by a rotary movement. If an open supply is desired, the helical or helical recess for a connection channel past the hearing aid.

Das IdO-Teil kann aus einem silikonartigen Material bestehen. Dieses Material ist einerseits angenehm zu tragen und andererseits sinkt dadurch die Rutschgefahr.The IdO part may consist of a silicone-like material. On the one hand this material is comfortable to wear and on the other hand it reduces the risk of slipping.

Die vorliegende Erfindung wird nun anhand der beigefügten Zeichnung näher erläutert, die eine schematische Ansicht eines erfindungsgemäßen Hörgeräts wiedergibt.The present invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawing, which shows a schematic view of a hearing aid according to the invention.

Das nachfolgend näher beschriebene Ausführungsbeispiel stellt eine bevorzugte Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung dar.The embodiment described in more detail below represents a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Das in der FIG dargestellte Hörgerät besteht aus einem HdO-Teil und einem IdO-Teil. Das IdO-Teil weist im vorliegenden Fall einen Hörer auf.The hearing aid shown in the FIG consists of a BTE part and an ITE part. The IdO part has a handset in the present case.

Beide Teile, das HdO-Teil und das IdO-Teil sind mit einem starren Verbindungselement V verbunden. Dieses Verbindungselement V dient zur Übertragung elektrischer Signale von dem HdO-Teil zum Hörer des IdO-Teils. Darüber hinaus dient es zum Fixieren des Hörgeräts an der Ohrmuschel des Hörgeräteträgers. Es dient aber auch zum Einsetzen des IdO-Teils in den Gehörgang, da das IdO-Teil durch das starre Verbindungselement V leicht geführt bzw. gedreht werden kann.Both parts, the BTE part and the ITE part are connected to a rigid connecting element V. This connecting element V is used to transmit electrical signals from the BTE part to the receiver of the ITE part. In addition, it serves to fix the hearing device on the auricle of the hearing aid wearer. But it also serves to insert the ITE part into the ear canal, since the ITE part can be easily guided or rotated by the rigid connecting element V.

Das Verbindungselement V besitzt als Kern beispielsweise einen Draht und dieser ist zusammen mit einer elektrischen Verbindungsleitung mit einem Kunststoff umgeben. Das Verbindungselement V ist grundsätzlich starr und würde bei einer Verformung beschädigt werden. Es lässt sich beispielsweise nur warm verformen. In seinen mechanischen Eigenschaften entspricht dieses Verbindungselement V somit beispielsweise einem Brillenbügel.The connecting element V has as a core, for example, a wire and this is surrounded together with an electrical connection line with a plastic. The connecting element V is basically rigid and would be damaged in a deformation. It can be deformed, for example, only warm. In its mechanical properties, this connecting element V thus corresponds, for example, to an eyeglass temple.

Die Form des IdO-Teils ist günstigerweise an den Gehörgang des Hörgeräteträgers exakt angepasst. Auch das HdO-Teil sollte exakt an den Raum hinter dem Ohr angeglichen sein. Des Weiteren lässt sich das Verbindungselement V in der Länge und der Form an die Anatomie der Ohrmuschel des Hörgeräteträgers anpassen. Dadurch ist nicht nur ein exakter Sitz des Hörgeräts gewährleistet, sondern auch die Tiefe vorgegeben, mit der das IdO-Teil in den Gehörgang eingesetzt werden kann.The shape of the ITE part is conveniently adapted to the ear canal of the hearing aid wearer exactly. The BTE part should also be exactly aligned with the space behind the ear. Furthermore, the connecting element V can be adapted in length and shape to the anatomy of the auricle of the hearing device wearer. This is not just an exact fit of the hearing aid but also specifies the depth with which the ITE part can be inserted into the ear canal.

Das in der FIG dargestellte IdO-Teil besitzt an seinem Umfang eine schnecken- bzw. schraubenförmige, nutartige Vertiefung N. Diese dient zum einen dazu, das IdO-Teil durch eine Drehbewegung in den Gehörgang einzuschrauben. Andererseits dient die Vertiefung bzw. Nut N zur Gewährleistung eines Kanals an dem IdO-Teil vorbei, so dass eine offene Versorgung sichergestellt werden kann. Entsprechend den in der FIG eingezeichneten Pfeilen ist somit ein Schall- und Luftpfad am IdO-Teil vorbei gegeben.The ITE part shown in FIG has at its periphery a helical, helical, groove-like depression N. This serves on the one hand to screw the ITE part by a rotational movement in the ear canal. On the other hand, the recess or groove N serves to ensure a channel past the ITE part, so that an open supply can be ensured. According to the arrows shown in the FIG thus a sound and air path on the ITE part is given over.

Das IdO-Teil besteht aus einem weichen, flexiblen, hautverträglichen Material, insbesondere eignet sich hierfür ein silikonartiger Werkstoff.The IdO part consists of a soft, flexible, skin-friendly material, in particular a silicone-like material is suitable for this purpose.

Der Einsetzvorgang eines derartigen Hörgeräts ist für den Hörgerätsträger einfach und komfortabel und lässt sich wie folgt skizzieren: Das insgesamt starre Hörgerät kann mit einer Hand, z. B. an der Biegung der starren Verbindung zwischen HdO- und IdO-Teil, festgehalten werden. Das IdO-Teil wird zunächst in beliebiger Weise im Ohr so platziert bzw. so tief eingeschoben, dass es nicht mehr herausfällt. Normalerweise wird durch die Schwerkraft das HdO-Teil dann zunächst nach unten hängen. Der zweite Teil des Einsetzvorgangs besteht nun lediglich darin, das Hörgerät in einer Art Drehbewegung hinter das Ohr zu klappen. Bei dieser Drehbewegung schraubt sich das schraubenförmige IdO-Teil weiter in den Gehörgang. Dadurch ergibt sich eine Art Verriegelungsmechanismus, der mit dem Einsetzvorgang gekoppelt ist. Dieses Eindrehen in den Gehörgang wird als angenehmer empfunden und das "Selbst-ins-Ohr-Drücken" kann entfallen.The insertion process of such a hearing aid is simple and comfortable for the hearing aid wearer and can be sketched as follows: The overall rigid hearing aid can with one hand, z. B. at the bend of the rigid connection between BTE and ITE part held. The IdO part is first placed in such a way in the ear or pushed so deep that it does not fall out. Normally, gravity will cause the BTE part to hang down first. The second part of the insertion process is now merely to fold the hearing aid in a kind of rotational movement behind the ear. During this rotational movement, the helical part of the IdO screws further into the auditory canal. This results in a kind of locking mechanism which is coupled to the insertion process. This insertion into the auditory canal is perceived as more pleasant and the "self-in-ear-pressing" can be omitted.

Die Sicherheit, dass der Hörer nicht zu weit in den Gehörgang eingeführt wird, ist für den Hörgeräteträger wichtig und stellt einen nicht zu unterschätzenden Komfortfaktor beim Einsetzen dar.The assurance that the listener is not inserted too far into the ear canal is important to the hearing aid wearer and represents a not to be underestimated comfort factor when inserting.

Entsprechend einer alternativen Ausführungsform besteht der Kern des Verbindungselements V aus einem Memorymaterial. Daher nimmt das Verbindungselement V nach einem Verbiegen wieder eine vorgegebene, stabile Endform ein. Dies lässt sich nun im Zusammenhang mit den schraubenförmigen Vertiefungen N bzw. Erhöhungen des IdO-Teils ausnutzen. Wird nämlich das Verbindungselement V vor dem Einsetzen verdrillt, kehrt es langsam wieder in die stabile Endform zurück und dreht dabei das IdO-Teil gegenüber dem HdO-Teil. Dieses Zurückdrehen kann nun zum Eindrehen des IdO-Teils in den Gehörgang ausgenutzt werden. Dies bedeutet, dass sich das IdO-Teil automatisch in das Ohr eindreht, wenn das HdO-Teil hinter der Ohrmuschel fixiert wird.According to an alternative embodiment, the core of the connecting element V consists of a memory material. Therefore, after bending, the connecting element V again assumes a predetermined stable end shape. This can now be exploited in connection with the helical depressions N or elevations of the ITE part. Namely, the connecting element V is twisted before insertion, it slowly returns to the stable final shape and rotates while the ITE part against the BTE part. This turning back can now be used for screwing the ITE part into the ear canal. This means that the IdO part automatically rotates into the ear when the BTE part is fixed behind the pinna.

Eine weitere Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung besteht darin, dass das Verbindungselement V eine Feder aufweist. Dies lässt sich im einfachsten Fall dadurch realisieren, dass ein federnder Draht als Kern des Verbindungselements V verwendet wird. Dem federnden Verbindungselement V wird beim Anpassen an den Hörgeräteträger zunächst eine Grundform gegeben. Beim Fixieren des HdO-Teils hinter der Ohrmuschel befindet sich das IdO-Teil zunächst noch nicht in seiner Endposition im Gehörgang, aber das federnde Verbindungselement wird gespannt. Durch die Federkraft des Verbindungselements V wird es allmählich tiefer in den Gehörgang gedrückt. Insbesondere kann es beispielsweise bei Kaubewegungen des Hörgerätsträgers tiefer in den Gehörgang rutschen, so dass es nach kurzer Zeit seine Endposition erreicht.Another embodiment of the present invention is that the connecting element V comprises a spring. This can be realized in the simplest case by using a resilient wire as the core of the connecting element V. The resilient connecting element V is first given a basic shape when adapting to the hearing aid wearer. When fixing the BTE part behind the pinna, the ITE part is initially not in its final position in the ear canal, but the resilient connecting element is stretched. By the spring force of the connecting element V, it is gradually pushed deeper into the ear canal. In particular, it can, for example, during chewing movements of the hearing aid wearer slide deeper into the ear canal, so that it reaches its final position after a short time.

Die vorgestellten Ausführungsformen des erfindungsgemäßen Hörgeräts gewährleisten somit ein leichtes Einsetzen. Darüber hinaus sorgen sie für einen festen und tiefen Sitz des IdO-Teils im Gehörgang. Außerdem kann durch die spezielle Gestaltung des IdO-Teils eine Belüftung für offene Versorgung garantiert werden.The presented embodiments of the hearing aid according to the invention thus ensure easy insertion. In addition, they ensure a firm and deep seat of the ITE part in the ear canal. Besides, due to the special design of the ITE part a ventilation for open supply are guaranteed.

Claims (7)

Hörgerät mit - einem Hinter-dem-Ohr-Teil (HdO), - einem In-dem-Ohr-Teil (IdO) und - einem Verbindungselement (V), das das Hinter-dem-Ohr-Teil (HdO) mit dem In-dem-Ohr-Teil (IdO) verbindet, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass - das Verbindungselement (V) aus einem Memorymaterial besteht, das eine stabile, vorgegebene Endform des Verbindungselements (V) gewährleistet, so dass das Verbindungselement (V) nach einem Verbiegen wieder in die Endform übergeht. Hearing aid with - a behind-the-ear part (BTE), an in-the-ear part (IdO) and a connection element (V) which connects the behind-the-ear part (BTE) to the in-the-ear part (ITO), characterized in that - The connecting element (V) consists of a memory material, which ensures a stable, predetermined final shape of the connecting element (V), so that the connecting element (V) merges again after bending into the final shape. Hörgerät mit - einem Hinter-dem-Ohr-Teil (HdO), - einem In-dem-Ohr-Teil (IdO) und - einem Verbindungselement (V), das das Hinter-dem-Ohr-Teil (HdO) mit dem In-dem-Ohr-Teil (IdO) verbindet, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass - das Verbindungselement (V) eine Federkomponente aufweist, die das In-dem-Ohr-Teil (IdO) in einem am Ohr getragenen Zustand des Hörgeräts, welcher noch nicht der Endposition entspricht, in den Gehörgang drückt, so dass das In-dem-Ohr-Teil (IdO) automatisch tiefer in den Gehörgang rutscht. Hearing aid with - a behind-the-ear part (BTE), an in-the-ear part (IdO) and a connection element (V) which connects the behind-the-ear part (BTE) to the in-the-ear part (ITO), characterized in that the connecting element (V) has a spring component which presses the in-the-ear part (IdO) into the ear canal in an ear-worn state of the hearing device which does not yet correspond to the end position, so that the in-deme Ear part (IdO) automatically slides deeper into the ear canal. Hörgerät nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, wobei das In-dem-Ohr-Teil (IdO), das Hinter-dem-Ohr-Teil (HdO) und/oder das Verbindungselement (V) an die Anatomie des Hörgerätsträgers individuell angepasst ist/sind.Hearing aid according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the in-the-ear part (IdO), the behind-the-ear part (BTE) and / or the connecting element (V) is individually adapted to the anatomy of the hearing aid wearer / are. Hörgerät nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei das In-dem-Ohr-Teil (IdO) eine Umhüllung aufweist, die eine schraubenförmige oder schneckenförmige Vertiefung (N) oder Erhöhung am Umfang besitzt.Hearing aid according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the in-the-ear part (IdO) has a sheath which has a helical or helical recess (N) or increase in the circumference. Hörgerät nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei das In-dem-Ohr-Teil (IdO) aus einem silikonartigen Material besteht.Hearing aid according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the in-the-ear part (IdO) consists of a silicone-like material. Verfahren zum Einsetzen eines Hörgeräts bestehend aus einem Hinter-dem-Ohr-Teil (HdO), einem In-dem-Ohr-Teil (IdO) und einem starren Verbindungselement (V), das das Hinter-dem-Ohr-Teil (HdO) mit dem In-dem-Ohr-Teil (IdO) verbindet, durch - Ansetzen des In-dem-Ohr-Teils (IdO) an eine Gehörgangsöffnung, - Drehen des gesamten Hörgeräts um die Gehörgangsachse unter Einschrauben des In-dem-Ohr-Teils (IdO) in den Gehörgang und - Fixieren des Hinter-dem-Ohr-Teils (HdO) hinter der Ohrmuschel. Method for inserting a hearing device consisting of a behind-the-ear part (BTE), an in-the-ear part (ITO) and a rigid connecting element (V) that supports the behind-the-ear part (BTE) with the in-the-ear part (IdO) connects, through Attaching the in-the-ear part (IdO) to an ear canal opening, - Rotate the entire hearing aid around the auditory canal axis while screwing the in-the-ear part (IdO) into the ear canal and - Fix the behind-the-ear part (BTE) behind the pinna. Verfahren nach Anspruch 6, wobei das Einschieben des In-dem-Ohr-Teils (IdO) automatisch beim Drehen des Hörgeräts unter Ausnutzung einer schraubenförmigen oder schneckenförmigen Vertiefung (N) oder Erhöhung einer Umhüllung des In-dem-Ohr-Teils (IdO) erfolgt.The method of claim 6, wherein the insertion of the in-the-ear part (IdO) is carried out automatically when turning the hearing aid by using a helical or helical depression (N) or increasing an envelope of the in-the-ear part (IdO) ,
EP05110691A 2004-11-18 2005-11-14 Hearing-aid Not-in-force EP1659826B1 (en)

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DE502005010307D1 (en) 2010-11-11
US7676051B2 (en) 2010-03-09
US20060109995A1 (en) 2006-05-25
DE102004055753A1 (en) 2006-06-01
EP1659826B1 (en) 2010-09-29
EP1659826A3 (en) 2009-03-18

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