EP1933593B1 - Method of side definition when fitting hearing aids - Google Patents

Method of side definition when fitting hearing aids Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1933593B1
EP1933593B1 EP07122582A EP07122582A EP1933593B1 EP 1933593 B1 EP1933593 B1 EP 1933593B1 EP 07122582 A EP07122582 A EP 07122582A EP 07122582 A EP07122582 A EP 07122582A EP 1933593 B1 EP1933593 B1 EP 1933593B1
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EP
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Prior art keywords
hearing
facility
acoustic signal
ear
hearing devices
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EP07122582A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1933593A2 (en
EP1933593A3 (en
Inventor
Herve Schulz
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Sivantos GmbH
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Siemens Audioligische Technik GmbH
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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
    • H04R25/70—Adaptation of deaf aid to hearing loss, e.g. initial electronic fitting
    • 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
    • H04R25/55—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception using an external connection, either wireless or wired
    • H04R25/552—Binaural
    • 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
    • H04R2225/61—Aspects relating to mechanical or electronic switches or control elements, e.g. functioning
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R2420/00—Details of connection covered by H04R, not provided for in its groups
    • H04R2420/07—Applications of wireless loudspeakers or wireless microphones

Definitions

  • a hearing aid with two hearing aids (binaural hearing aid, so-called binaural care) is required or useful for the adequate care of a patient with a hearing impairment.
  • Digitally programmable hearing systems are used, ie hearing systems whose electroacoustic properties can be adjusted externally via a computer or computer ("adapted") and must.
  • the main advantage of (programmable) programmable hearing instruments is that a variety of electro-acoustic parameters can be adjusted to more precisely compensate for hearing loss.
  • the signal processing can take place in these hearing aids in an analogous manner (digitally programmable analog> hearing systems) or in a digital manner (fully digital hearing systems).
  • Fully digital hearing aids are hearing systems that convert the analog microphone signal into a digital signal.
  • the digital signal is then processed according to the instructions of the programmed software (algorithm) and on-chip integrated circuits. Finally, the digital signals are converted back to analog signals and forwarded to the listener.
  • the incoming signal is measured at certain intervals (signal sampling). The more frequent the signal sampling, the better the reproduction of the input signal.
  • the digitization allows much more sophisticated analysis and filtering for an optimal speech / noise ratio than analog systems could.
  • the page definition is not a problem when the adapter is connected via a cable to the hearing aid or hearing aids, because with the help of the cables a clear assignment of the ear pages (right or left) to the data is easily possible. However, if the data is transferred wirelessly between the adapter and the hearing aid, page definition is less straightforward.
  • the publication US 5870481 A describes a method and apparatus for a hearing aid to improve sound localization. For this purpose, a hearing aid carrying a hearing aid is determined for a person wearing the hearing aid. The hearing aid is then adjusted and adjusted on the basis of the determined hearing difference.
  • the font US 3221100 A discloses an apparatus and method for testing a person's hearing and thereby determining the extent of any hearing impairment that may be present. The determination of the extent of hearing impairment is the prerequisite for the optimal adjustment of a hearing aid to compensate for the hearing impairment.
  • the document US 2004/0042629 A1 discloses a headphone device which comprises two earphone capsules for a communication system, for example a radio. Via the two hearing capsules, orientation information is provided to the communication system, which indicates to which ear each earpiece is coupled. In response to the orientation information provided by the two earphone capsules, the communication system then adjusts a stereo signal sent to the earphone capsules.
  • the headset device may be wired or radio-coupled to the communication system.
  • US 2006/0256987 A1 discloses a method which enables a wearer of two hearing aids worn behind the ears to determine whether the hearing aids are worn on the respectively correct ear.
  • a light signal is emitted via a device arranged in the hearing light-emitting device when turning on the hearing aids.
  • the wearer of the hearing aid is informed, which hearing aid is provided for the right and the left ear.
  • the invention has for its object to enable a technically simple page definition. This object is achieved by a method or a device according to one of the claims.
  • FIG. 1 shows in a schematic way the interaction of an inventive adaptation device (AD) with the hearing aids (HA1, HA2) a hearing aid (HA) in carrying out a method according to the invention.
  • AD inventive adaptation device
  • HA hearing aid
  • a hearing device (HA1, HA2) of the hearing aid (HA) to be adapted is located on the left (LE) and the right (RE) ear, and the adaptation device (AD) exchanges data with at least one of these two hearing aids (eg filter coefficients or similar data).
  • the adjustment takes place ultimately by the fact that suitable (adapted to the individual needs and circumstances of each ear) data are stored in a memory device of the hearing aid, whereby an adapted to these individual needs and circumstances operation of the hearing aid is effected.
  • the data sets to be stored in the two hearing aids are generally different. It is therefore essential for the success of the adaptation that the data is stored on the respective correct hearing aid. This is determined by the page definition, i. ensured by the correct assignment of the two hearing aids (HA1, HA2) to the ears (RE) or (LE) of the wearer.
  • an acoustic signal is transmitted to the wearer via the earpiece of at least one of these hearing aids, whereupon this wearer of the adaptation device (AD) has an input device (ED) in communication therewith, possibly mediated by a device which actuates the adaptation device Person - tells on which ear this acoustic signal was heard by the wearer or what spatial characteristic or asymmetry this acoustic signal has.
  • This input device (ED) for example, via a suitable cable - connected to the adapter (AD). It may be a commercially available computer keyboard, or a computer mouse, by means of which the wearer of the hearing aid or another person instructed by the wearer makes the adaptation device the message required for the page definition.
  • the acoustic signal may for example be a sine wave, which is transmitted only via the listener of one of the two hearing aids, whereas the other listener transmits no signal. But it can also be a signal, the one clearly perceptible spatial characteristics, for example, a signal that represents a movable sound source that moves from one side to the other. What is decisive is that the acoustic signal has any side asymmetry suitable for defining a page.
  • the acoustic signal can also be a voice signal, which prompts the carrier to deliver or carry out the message required for the page definition.
  • the acoustic signal may also contain such a speech signal. It would be conceivable, e.g. an embodiment in which a sound or a sound moves from one side to the other and a speech signal instructs the wearer of the hearing aid to name the side to which the sound source moves.
  • FIG. 2 shows in a schematic way the interaction of an inventive adaptation device (AD) with the hearing aids (HA1, HA2) of a hearing aid (HA) in carrying out a method according to the invention according to a further embodiment of the invention.
  • AD inventive adaptation device
  • the device (ED1) by the actuation of which the wearer of the hearing aid makes the information necessary for the page definition, is in or on one of the two hearing aids.
  • this is an already on the hearing aid located switch or a corresponding button, which is used in other contexts, for example, to switch the hearing program or an operating state of the hearing aid, and the or is used in connection with the adjustment process as an input device for page definition ,
  • the switching between the meanings of the operation of this device can be done for example via the software of the adjustment device.
  • the wearer of the hearing aid can also touch a sensor that is located on one of the two hearing aids.
  • This sensor does not necessarily have to be dedicated to this purpose, but may also be, for example, an already existing metal contact, e.g. a metallic connection socket or the like, the capacitance of which changes when touched, which is measured by a device present in the hearing aid and - in the phase of adaptation or page definition - evaluated accordingly and transmitted to the adjustment device.
  • the wearer of the hearing may be necessary or convenient to inform the wearer of the hearing by which act he should disclose or perform the communication.
  • the signal is a sound source moving from the left to the right ear
  • an appointment between the examiner (usually a hearing care professional) and the person being examined (the hearing aid wearer) is obviously required.
  • the appointment can advantageously be made by also informing the wearer of the hearing aid via the speech signal by which act he should deliver or carry out the message.
  • the speech signal could thus contain the text "Please touch the sensor on the hearing aid on which you initially hear the sound source" or the like.
  • the input device is in contact with the matching device via a wireless, optical or galvanic connection. It is also not essential if the input device is operated directly by the wearer of the hearing aid or by an investigator who verbally informs the wearer of the hearing aid the information required for the page definition.
  • the input device can consequently be located on or in a hearing device, but can also be a component of the adaptation device or its accessories.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Signal Processing (AREA)
  • Acoustics & Sound (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Neurosurgery (AREA)
  • Otolaryngology (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
  • Stereophonic System (AREA)
  • Circuit For Audible Band Transducer (AREA)
  • Electrically Operated Instructional Devices (AREA)
  • Pharmaceuticals Containing Other Organic And Inorganic Compounds (AREA)
  • Stereophonic Arrangements (AREA)
  • Measurement Of The Respiration, Hearing Ability, Form, And Blood Characteristics Of Living Organisms (AREA)
  • Headphones And Earphones (AREA)

Abstract

The method involves allocating both the hearing aids (HA1, HA2) to the right ear (RE) or the left ear (LE) carriers of the hearing aids. The carriers transfer an acoustic signal (AS) by the ear piece to one of the hearing aids. The carrier is connected with the adaptation device (AD) by a feeding device (ED), and if necessary, communicates through one of the adaptation devices and notifies the operating person, on which ear the acoustic signal is heard or which spatial characteristic or asymmetry of the acoustic signal approaches. An independent claim is also included for the device for adaptation of one of two hearing aids for right and left ear.

Description

In vielen Fällen ist zur adäquaten Versorgung eines Patienten mit einer Hörstörung eine Hörhilfe mit zwei Hörgeräten (beidohrige Hörhilfe, so genannte binaurale Versorgung) erforderlich oder sinnvoll. Dabei werden heute fast ausschließlich digital programmierbare Hörsysteme eingesetzt, also Hörsysteme, deren elektroakustische Eigenschaften extern über einen Rechner oder Computer eingestellt ("angepasst") werden können und müssen. Der Hauptvorteil (digital) programmierbarer Hörsysteme liegt darin, dass eine Vielzahl elektroakustischer Parameter eingestellt werden kann, um den Hörverlust präziser zu kompensieren. Die Signalverarbeitung kann bei diesen Hörgeräten in analoger Weise (digital programmierbare analoge> Hörsysteme) oder in digitaler Weise (volldigitale Hörsysteme) erfolgen. Volldigitale Hörgeräte sind Hörsysteme, die das analoge Mikrofonsignal in ein digitales Signal umwandeln. Das digitale Signal wird dann entsprechend den Befehlen der programmierten Software (Algorithmus) und den auf dem Chip integrierten Schaltkreisen bearbeitet. Schließlich werden die digitalen Signale in analoge Signale zurückgewandelt und an den Hörer weitergeleitet. Das ankommende Signal wird dabei in bestimmten Zeitabständen gemessen (Signalabtastung). Je häufiger die Signalabtastung desto besser ist die Reproduktion des Eingangssignals. Die Digitalisierung erlaubt wesentlich komplexere Analysen und Filterungen im Hinblick auf ein optimales Sprach-/ Störlärm-Verhältnis, als dies bei analogen Systemen möglich war.In many cases, a hearing aid with two hearing aids (binaural hearing aid, so-called binaural care) is required or useful for the adequate care of a patient with a hearing impairment. Today, almost exclusively digitally programmable hearing systems are used, ie hearing systems whose electroacoustic properties can be adjusted externally via a computer or computer ("adapted") and must. The main advantage of (programmable) programmable hearing instruments is that a variety of electro-acoustic parameters can be adjusted to more precisely compensate for hearing loss. The signal processing can take place in these hearing aids in an analogous manner (digitally programmable analog> hearing systems) or in a digital manner (fully digital hearing systems). Fully digital hearing aids are hearing systems that convert the analog microphone signal into a digital signal. The digital signal is then processed according to the instructions of the programmed software (algorithm) and on-chip integrated circuits. Finally, the digital signals are converted back to analog signals and forwarded to the listener. The incoming signal is measured at certain intervals (signal sampling). The more frequent the signal sampling, the better the reproduction of the input signal. The digitization allows much more sophisticated analysis and filtering for an optimal speech / noise ratio than analog systems could.

Zur so genannten Anpassung von Hörgeräten, also zur Einstellung von deren Parametern (z.B. Filterkoeffizienten) oder zu deren Programmierung werden Anpassungseinrichtungen (in der Regel von Hörgeräteakustikern) verwendet, die regelmäßig als spezielle Computer mit einer auf diesen laufenden speziellen Anwendungssoftware ausgeführt sind und während der Anpassung mit den Hörgeräten - über Kabel oder auch drahtlos - Daten austauschen. Bei der Anpassung von binauralen (beide Ohren umfassenden) Hörhilfen muss vor der Anpassung eine korrekte Zuordnung der beiden Hörgeräte (HA1, HA2) zu den Ohren (RE) bzw (LE) des Trägers erfolgen, weil andernfalls die Daten den Geräten bei der Anpassung falsch zugeordnet würden. Diese Zuordnung der beiden Hörgeräte (HA1, HA2) zu den Ohren (RE) bzw (LE) des Trägers zum Zweck der Anpassung wird vom Fachmann auch als Seitendefinition bezeichnet.For the so-called adaptation of hearing aids, ie for setting their parameters (eg filter coefficients) or for their programming fitting devices (usually hearing aid acousticians) are used, which regularly as a special computer with a running on this special Application software and during the adaptation with the hearing aids - via cable or wireless - exchange data. When adapting binaural (both ears comprehensive) hearing aids must be done prior to the adaptation, a correct assignment of the two hearing aids (HA1, HA2) to the ears (RE) or (LE) of the wearer, because otherwise the data to the devices in the adjustment wrong would be assigned. This assignment of the two hearing aids (HA1, HA2) to the ears (RE) or (LE) of the wearer for the purpose of adaptation is also referred to by the person skilled in the art as a page definition.

Die Seitendefinition bereitet keine Probleme, wenn die Anpassungseinrichtung über ein Kabel mit dem Hörgerät oder mit den Hörgeräten verbunden ist, weil mit Hilfe der Kabel eine eindeutige Zuordnung der Ohrseiten (rechts oder links) zu den Daten leicht möglich ist. Werden die Daten zwischen der Anpassungseinrichtung und dem Hörgerät jedoch drahtlos übertragen, ist eine Seitendefinition weniger einfach.The page definition is not a problem when the adapter is connected via a cable to the hearing aid or hearing aids, because with the help of the cables a clear assignment of the ear pages (right or left) to the data is easily possible. However, if the data is transferred wirelessly between the adapter and the hearing aid, page definition is less straightforward.

Die Druckschrift US 5870481 A beschreibt ein Verfahren und eine Vorrichtung für eine Hörhilfe zur Verbesserung der Klanglokalisierung. Dazu wird für eine die Hörhilfe tragende Person ein in Bezug auf beide Ohren bestehender Hörunterschied ermittelt. Auf Basis des ermittelten Hörunterschieds erfolgt anschließend die Einstellung und Anpassung der Hörhilfe.The publication US 5870481 A describes a method and apparatus for a hearing aid to improve sound localization. For this purpose, a hearing aid carrying a hearing aid is determined for a person wearing the hearing aid. The hearing aid is then adjusted and adjusted on the basis of the determined hearing difference.

Die Schrift US 3221100 A offenbart eine Vorrichtung und ein Verfahren zum Testen des Hörvermögens einer Person und damit zur Feststellung des Ausmaßes einer gegebenenfalls bestehenden Hörbeeinträchtigung. Die Bestimmung des Ausmaßes einer Hörbeeinträchtigung stellt die Voraussetzung für die optimale Einstellung einer Hörhilfe zum Ausgleich der Hörbeeinträchtigung dar.The font US 3221100 A discloses an apparatus and method for testing a person's hearing and thereby determining the extent of any hearing impairment that may be present. The determination of the extent of hearing impairment is the prerequisite for the optimal adjustment of a hearing aid to compensate for the hearing impairment.

Aus der Schrift US 2004/0042629 A1 ist eine Kopfhörervorrichtung, die zwei Hörkapseln für die Ohren umfasst, für ein Kommunikationssystem, beispielsweise ein Radio, bekannt. Über die beiden Hörkapseln werden dem Kommunikationssystem Orientierungsinformationen bereitgestellt, welche anzeigen, mit welchem Ohr jede Hörkapsel gekoppelt ist. Als Antwort auf die durch die beiden Hörkapseln gelieferte Orientierungsinformation passt das Kommunikationssystem daraufhin ein an die Hörkapseln gesendetes Stereosignal an. Die Kopfhörervorrichtung kann drahtgebunden oder funkbasiert mit dem Kommunikationssystem gekoppelt werden.The document US 2004/0042629 A1 discloses a headphone device which comprises two earphone capsules for a communication system, for example a radio. Via the two hearing capsules, orientation information is provided to the communication system, which indicates to which ear each earpiece is coupled. In response to the orientation information provided by the two earphone capsules, the communication system then adjusts a stereo signal sent to the earphone capsules. The headset device may be wired or radio-coupled to the communication system.

Die US 2006/0256987 A1 offenbart ein Verfahren die es einem Träger von zwei hinter den Ohren getragenen Hörgeräten ermöglicht festzustellen, ob die Hörgeräte an dem jeweils richtigen Ohr getragen werden. Dabei wird über eine in den Hörgeräten angeordnete Licht-aussendende Vorrichtung beim Anschalten der Hörgeräte ein Lichtsignal ausgesendet. Über das Lichtsignal, beispielsweise in Form verschiedener Farbcodes, wird dem Träger der Hörgeräte mitgeteilt, welches Hörgerät für das rechte bzw. das linke Ohr vorgesehen ist.US 2006/0256987 A1 discloses a method which enables a wearer of two hearing aids worn behind the ears to determine whether the hearing aids are worn on the respectively correct ear. In this case, a light signal is emitted via a device arranged in the hearing light-emitting device when turning on the hearing aids. About the light signal, for example in the form of different color codes, the wearer of the hearing aid is informed, which hearing aid is provided for the right and the left ear.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, eine technisch einfache Seitendefinition zu ermöglichen. Diese Aufgabe wird durch eine Verfahren oder eine Einrichtung nach einem der Patentansprüche gelöst.The invention has for its object to enable a technically simple page definition. This object is achieved by a method or a device according to one of the claims.

Im Folgenden wird die Erfindung anhand bevorzugter Ausführungsbeispiele und mit Hilfe von Figuren näher beschrieben.The invention will be described in more detail below on the basis of preferred exemplary embodiments and with the aid of figures.

Figur 1 zeigt in schematischer Weise das Zusammenwirken einer erfindungsgemäßen Anpassungseinrichtung (AD) mit den Hörgeräten (HA1, HA2) einer Hörhilfe (HA) bei der Durchführung eines erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens. FIG. 1 shows in a schematic way the interaction of an inventive adaptation device (AD) with the hearing aids (HA1, HA2) a hearing aid (HA) in carrying out a method according to the invention.

Dabei befindet sich auf dem linken (LE) und auf dem rechten (RE) Ohr jeweils ein Hörgerät (HA1, HA2) der anzupassenden Hörhilfe (HA), und die Anpassungseinrichtung (AD) tauscht mit wenigstens einem dieser beiden Hörgeräte Daten (z.B. Filterkoeffizienten oder ähnliche Daten) aus. Die Anpassung erfolgt dabei letztlich dadurch, dass geeignete (an die individuellen Bedürfnisse und Gegebenheiten des jeweiligen Ohres angepasste) Daten in einer Speichereinrichtung des Hörgerätes gespeichert werden, wodurch eine an diese individuellen Bedürfnisse und Gegebenheiten angepasste Funktionsweise des Hörgerätes bewirkt wird.In each case, a hearing device (HA1, HA2) of the hearing aid (HA) to be adapted is located on the left (LE) and the right (RE) ear, and the adaptation device (AD) exchanges data with at least one of these two hearing aids (eg filter coefficients or similar data). The adjustment takes place ultimately by the fact that suitable (adapted to the individual needs and circumstances of each ear) data are stored in a memory device of the hearing aid, whereby an adapted to these individual needs and circumstances operation of the hearing aid is effected.

Da im Allgemeinen jedes der beiden Ohren eine individuelle Anpassung benötigt, sind die in den beiden Hörgeräten zu speichernden Datensätze im Allgemeinen verschieden. Es ist daher für den Erfolg der Anpassung wesentlich, dass die Daten auf dem jeweils richtigen Hörgerät gespeichert werden. Dies wird durch die Seitendefinition, d.h. durch die korrekte Zuordnung der beiden Hörgeräte (HA1, HA2) zu den Ohren (RE) bzw (LE) des Trägers, sichergestellt.Since, in general, each of the two ears requires customization, the data sets to be stored in the two hearing aids are generally different. It is therefore essential for the success of the adaptation that the data is stored on the respective correct hearing aid. This is determined by the page definition, i. ensured by the correct assignment of the two hearing aids (HA1, HA2) to the ears (RE) or (LE) of the wearer.

Gemäß der vorliegenden Erfindung wird dazu dem Träger ein akustisches Signal (AS) über den Hörer mindestens eines dieser Hörgeräte übermittelt, woraufhin dieser Träger der Anpassungseinrichtung (AD) über eine mit dieser in Verbindung stehenden Eingabeeinrichtung (ED) - gegebenenfalls vermittelt durch eine die Anpassungseinrichtung bedienende Person - mitteilt, auf welchem Ohr dieses akustische Signal vom Träger gehört wurde oder welche räumliche Charakteristik oder Asymmetrie diesem akustischen Signal zukommt. In Figur 1 ist diese Eingabeeinrichtung (ED) - beispielsweise über ein geeignetes Kabel - mit der Anpassungseinrichtung (AD) verbunden. Es kann sich dabei um eine handelsübliche Computer-Tastatur handeln, oder um eine Computer-Maus, mit deren Hilfe der Träger der Hörhilfe oder eine andere Person, die vom Träger instruiert wird, der Anpassungseinrichtung die zur Seitendefinition erforderliche Mitteilung macht.According to the present invention, an acoustic signal (AS) is transmitted to the wearer via the earpiece of at least one of these hearing aids, whereupon this wearer of the adaptation device (AD) has an input device (ED) in communication therewith, possibly mediated by a device which actuates the adaptation device Person - tells on which ear this acoustic signal was heard by the wearer or what spatial characteristic or asymmetry this acoustic signal has. In FIG. 1 This input device (ED) - for example, via a suitable cable - connected to the adapter (AD). It may be a commercially available computer keyboard, or a computer mouse, by means of which the wearer of the hearing aid or another person instructed by the wearer makes the adaptation device the message required for the page definition.

Das akustische Signal (AS) kann beispielsweise ein Sinuston sein, der nur über den Hörer eines der beiden Hörgeräte übertragen wird, wohingegen der andere Hörer kein Signal überträgt. Es kann sich aber auch um ein Signal handeln, dem eine deutlich wahrnehmbare räumliche Charakteristik zukommt, also z.B. ein Signal, das eine bewegliche Schallquelle darstellt, die sich von einer Seite zur anderen hin bewegt. Entscheidend ist lediglich, dass das akustische Signal irgendeine Seitenasymmetrie aufweist, die zur Definition einer Seite geeignet ist.The acoustic signal (AS) may for example be a sine wave, which is transmitted only via the listener of one of the two hearing aids, whereas the other listener transmits no signal. But it can also be a signal, the one clearly perceptible spatial characteristics, for example, a signal that represents a movable sound source that moves from one side to the other. What is decisive is that the acoustic signal has any side asymmetry suitable for defining a page.

Bei dem akustischen Signal (AS) kann es sich auch um ein Sprachsignal handeln, mit dem der Träger aufgefordert wird, die zur Seitendefinition erforderliche Mitteilung abzugeben oder durchzuführen. Gemäß einer anderen Ausführungsvariante der Erfindung kann das akustische Signal auch ein solches Sprachsignal enthalten. Denkbar wäre z.B. eine Ausführung, bei der sich ein Geräusch oder ein Klang von einer Seite zur anderen bewegt und eine Sprachsignal den Träger der Hörhilfe anweist, diejenige Seite zu benennen, zu der sich die Schallquelle hinbewegt.The acoustic signal (AS) can also be a voice signal, which prompts the carrier to deliver or carry out the message required for the page definition. According to another embodiment of the invention, the acoustic signal may also contain such a speech signal. It would be conceivable, e.g. an embodiment in which a sound or a sound moves from one side to the other and a speech signal instructs the wearer of the hearing aid to name the side to which the sound source moves.

Figur 2 zeigt in schematischer Weise das Zusammenwirken einer erfindungsgemäßen Anpassungseinrichtung (AD) mit den Hörgeräten (HA1, HA2) einer Hörhilfe (HA) bei der Durchführung eines erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform der Erfindung. FIG. 2 shows in a schematic way the interaction of an inventive adaptation device (AD) with the hearing aids (HA1, HA2) of a hearing aid (HA) in carrying out a method according to the invention according to a further embodiment of the invention.

Bei dieser Ausführungsform befindet sich die Einrichtung (ED1), durch deren Betätigung der Träger der Hörhilfe die zur Seitendefinition erforderlich Mitteilung vornimmt, in bzw auf einem der beiden Hörgeräte. Vorzugsweise handelt es sich hierbei um einen ohnehin auf dem Hörgerät befindlichen Schalter oder eine entsprechende Taste, die in anderen Zusammenhängen z.B. zum Umschalten des Hörprogramms oder eines Betriebszustandes des Hörgerätes verwendet wird, und der bzw die im Zusammenhang mit dem Anpassungsverfahren als Eingabeeinrichtung zur Seitendefinition verwendet wird. Die Umschaltung zwischen den Bedeutungen der Betätigung dieser Einrichtung kann z.B. über die Software der Anpassungseinrichtung erfolgen.In this embodiment, the device (ED1), by the actuation of which the wearer of the hearing aid makes the information necessary for the page definition, is in or on one of the two hearing aids. Preferably, this is an already on the hearing aid located switch or a corresponding button, which is used in other contexts, for example, to switch the hearing program or an operating state of the hearing aid, and the or is used in connection with the adjustment process as an input device for page definition , The switching between the meanings of the operation of this device can be done for example via the software of the adjustment device.

Anstatt einen Schalter oder ähnliches zu bedienen, kann der Träger des Hörgerätes aber auch einen Sensor berühren, der sich auf einem der beiden Hörgeräte befindet. Dieser Sensor muss nicht unbedingt für diesen Zweck dezidiert sein, sondern es kann sich beispielsweise auch um einen ohnehin vorhandenen Metallkontakt, z.B. um eine metallische Anschlussbuchse oder ähnliches, dessen Kapazität sich bei Berührung ändert, was durch eine im Hörgerät vorhandenen Einrichtung gemessen und - in der Phase der Anpassung bzw. Seitendefinition - entsprechend ausgewertet und an die Anpassungseinrichtung übermittelt wird.Instead of using a switch or the like, the wearer of the hearing aid can also touch a sensor that is located on one of the two hearing aids. This sensor does not necessarily have to be dedicated to this purpose, but may also be, for example, an already existing metal contact, e.g. a metallic connection socket or the like, the capacitance of which changes when touched, which is measured by a device present in the hearing aid and - in the phase of adaptation or page definition - evaluated accordingly and transmitted to the adjustment device.

Je nach der Art des zur Seitendefinition verwendeten akustischen Signals ist es möglicherweise erforderlich oder zweckmäßig, den Träger der Hörhilfe darüber zu unterrichten, durch welche Handlung er die Mitteilung abgeben oder durchführen soll. Wenn das Signal beispielsweise eine sich vom linken zum rechten Ohr bewegende Schallquelle darstellt, ist nicht von vornherein klar, ob der Träger die zur Seitendefinition benötigte Mitteilung durch Benennung des Ursprungsortes (linkes Ohr) oder des Zielortes (rechtes Ohr) der Schallquelle vornehmen soll. Zur Eindeutigkeit der Zuordnung ist hier offenbar eine Verabredung zwischen der untersuchenden Person (in der Regel eine Hörgeräteakustiker) und der untersuchten Person (dem Träger der Hörhilfe) erforderlich. Die Verabredung kann vorteilhaft dadurch vorgenommen werden, dass dem Träger der Hörhilfe über das Sprachsignal auch mitgeteilt wird, durch welche Handlung er die Mitteilung abgeben oder durchführen soll. In dem genannten Beispiel könnte das Sprachsignal also den Text "Bitte berühren Sie den Sensor auf dem Hörgerät, auf dem Sie die Schallquelle anfänglich hören" oder ähnliches enthalten.Depending on the type of acoustic signal used to define the page, it may be necessary or convenient to inform the wearer of the hearing by which act he should disclose or perform the communication. For example, if the signal is a sound source moving from the left to the right ear, it is not clear in advance whether the wearer should make the message needed for page definition by naming the origin (left ear) or destination (right ear) of the sound source. For unambiguous assignment, an appointment between the examiner (usually a hearing care professional) and the person being examined (the hearing aid wearer) is obviously required. The appointment can advantageously be made by also informing the wearer of the hearing aid via the speech signal by which act he should deliver or carry out the message. In the above example, the speech signal could thus contain the text "Please touch the sensor on the hearing aid on which you initially hear the sound source" or the like.

Für die Erfindung ist es nicht wesentlich, ob die Eingabeeinrichtung mit der Anpassungseinrichtung über eine drahtlose, optische oder galvanische Verbindung in Kontakt steht. Es ist auch nicht wesentlich, ob die Eingabeeinrichtung direkt durch den Träger der Hörhilfe oder durch eine Untersuchungsperson bedient wird, der der Träger der Hörhilfe zuvor verbal die zur Seitendefinition benötigte Information mitteilt. Die Eingabeeinrichtung kann sich folglich an bzw in einem Hörgerät befinden, aber auch ein Bestandteil der Anpassungseinrichtung oder deren Zubehör sein.For the invention, it is not essential whether the input device is in contact with the matching device via a wireless, optical or galvanic connection. It is also not essential if the input device is operated directly by the wearer of the hearing aid or by an investigator who verbally informs the wearer of the hearing aid the information required for the page definition. The input device can consequently be located on or in a hearing device, but can also be a component of the adaptation device or its accessories.

Claims (11)

  1. Method for the side definition of hearing devices (HA1, HA2) worn on the right (RE) and on the left (LE) ear of a hearing device wearer,
    characterised in that,
    an acoustic signal (AS), which is suitable for defining the side, is transmitted to the hearing devices (HA1, HA2) by way of an adjusting facility (AD) connected to the hearing devices, whereupon the hearing device wearer notifies the adjusting facility (AD) by way of an input facility (ED) connected thereto, if necessary mediated by a person operating the adjusting facility (AD), at which ear the acoustic signal (AS) was heard.
  2. Method according to claim 1,
    characterised in that
    the hearing device wearer performs the notification (M) by actuating a facility (ED1), which is located in and/or on one of the two hearing devices (HA1, HA2).
  3. Method according to claim 2,
    characterised in that
    the hearing device wearer performs the notification (M) by touching a sensor (SD), which is located on one of the two hearing devices (HA1, HA2).
  4. Method according to one of the preceding claims,
    characterised in that
    the acoustic signal (AS) is or contains a voice signal, with which the hearing device wearer is requested to output or perform the notification (M) required for side definition.
  5. Method according to claim 4,
    characterised in that
    the hearing device wearer is also notified by way of the voice signal by which action he/she is to output or perform the notification (M).
  6. Method according to claim 1,
    characterised in that
    the acoustic signal (AS) used for side definition is transmitted to one of the two hearing devices (HA1, HA2), the acoustic signal (AS) being a sine-wave tone.
  7. Method according to claim 1,
    characterised in that
    the acoustic signal (AS) used for side definition is transmitted to one of the two hearing devices (HA1, HA2), the acoustic signal (AS) having a spatial characteristic.
  8. Method according to claim 1,
    characterised in that
    the acoustic signal (AS) used for side definition is transmitted to one of the two hearing devices (HA1, HA2), the acoustic signal (AS) having a side asymmetry.
  9. Facility (AD) for the side definition of hearing devices (HA1, HA2) worn on the right (RE) and on the left (LE) ear of a hearing device wearer,
    characterised by
    - an adjusting facility (AD) connected to the hearing devices for transmitting an acoustic signal (AS), which is suitable for defining a side, to the hearing devices (HA1, HA2),
    - an input facility (ED), which is connected to the adjusting facility (AD) and by way of which the hearing device wearer notifies the adjusting facility (AD) - if necessary mediated by a person operating the adjustment facility (AD) - at which ear the acoustic signal (AS) was heard.
  10. Facility according to claim 9,
    characterised by
    a facility (DTD) for exchanging data with the adjusting facility (AD) and having a facility (ED1) disposed in or on one of the two hearing devices (HA1, HA2), actuation of which by the hearing device wearer brings about a notification (M) to the adjusting facility (AD), as required for side definition, of the ear at which the acoustic signal (AS) was heard.
  11. Facility according to claim 9,
    characterised in that
    one of the two hearing devices (HA1, HA2) comprises a sensor (SD) which, when the hearing device wearer touches it, brings about the notification (M).
EP07122582A 2006-12-14 2007-12-07 Method of side definition when fitting hearing aids Revoked EP1933593B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

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DE102006059151A DE102006059151A1 (en) 2006-12-14 2006-12-14 Method for page definition for fitting hearing aids

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EP1933593A2 EP1933593A2 (en) 2008-06-18
EP1933593A3 EP1933593A3 (en) 2010-06-02
EP1933593B1 true EP1933593B1 (en) 2012-01-25

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EP (1) EP1933593B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE543345T1 (en)
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DK (1) DK1933593T3 (en)

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EP3627854B1 (en) * 2018-09-18 2023-06-07 Sonova AG Method for operating a hearing system and hearing system comprising two hearing devices

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DE102007039447A1 (en) * 2007-08-21 2009-02-26 Siemens Medical Instruments Pte. Ltd. Method for page definition for fitting hearing aids
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EP3627854B1 (en) * 2018-09-18 2023-06-07 Sonova AG Method for operating a hearing system and hearing system comprising two hearing devices

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Publication number Publication date
DK1933593T3 (en) 2012-05-21
US8358794B2 (en) 2013-01-22
US20080144867A1 (en) 2008-06-19
EP1933593A2 (en) 2008-06-18
ATE543345T1 (en) 2012-02-15
DE102006059151A1 (en) 2008-06-19
EP1933593A3 (en) 2010-06-02

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